Mind Cymru Volunteer Scheme
Mind Cymru’s volunteer scheme has been running since 1999. From the very
beginning, we had a specific Mind Cymru Volunteer Policy clearly setting out how
the Volunteer Scheme operates. The policy has been reviewed and modified
over the years.
In terms of recruitment, we currently advertise for volunteers through Cardiff’s
Volunteer Centre, on the Mind Cymru web pages and through Cardiff Mind.
Our volunteer scheme was comprehensively reviewed in 2005 by a working
group consisting of staff and volunteers. The final report went to Mind Cymru
managers in January 2006 and made some recommendations including:
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Only recruiting people with experience of mental distress
Conducting an annual skills audit (as well as the equalities audit)
To have a training budget for volunteers
All volunteers have a ‘Review contract’ with their line manager.
Volunteers to have their own Mind Cymru email address.
Another review of the scheme is currently in process and Mind Cymru has
recently achieved the Investing in Volunteers award.
It’s not all been plain sailing. As in all workplaces, there have been occasions
where there have been disagreements between volunteers or between
volunteers and staff. However, we are keen to resolve and work around these
where possible. For example, when dealing with a disagreement between
volunteers that couldn’t be resolved, we arranged for the individual volunteers to
come in on different days.
We have always tried to be inclusive so that volunteers know and feel that they
are part of the Mind Cymru team. This includes inviting volunteers to social
events, to planning meetings and staff events. Volunteers have a special
‘Volunteer Day’ once every three months, focusing on team building and training.
As part of these days, individual staff members attend to explain their roles at
Mind Cymru, campaigns, policy work, and forthcoming events. ‘Volunteer Days’
are well attended and received very positive feedback.
WCVA/ Wales TUC Charter. Case Study. 2011
Mind Cymru staff appreciates volunteers. They are an essential part of the Mind
Cymru team, they assist us in carrying out our work and we wouldn’t be
anywhere near as effective without them.
Marina’s story
‘I have volunteered at Mind Cymru for nearly two years, during which time I have
enjoyed both the work experience and the lovely atmosphere with very
encouraging, friendly staff.
Not only did it help me to socialise again, but also raised my confidence level
which was very low.
I have received training to become an instructor in Mental Health First Aid, and
now feel able to return to work after a long period of sickness.
I was delighted to learn that I've got the post of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)
Regional Coordinator assisting with the promotion, development and coordination
of the MHFA programme across South Wales. I'm finally back to work after a very
tough time of illness which lasted for some years.’
Mind Cymru
Cardiff
November 2010
WCVA/ Wales TUC Charter. Case Study. 2011