Volunteer opportunities, rights and expenses
Volunteers' rights
You do not have a contract of employment as a volunteer, so you do not have the same rights as an employee or worker.
You will usually be given a volunteer agreement that explains:
- the level of supervision and support you’ll get
- what training you’ll get
- whether you’re covered under the organisation’s employer or public liability insurance
- health and safety issues
- any expenses the organisation will cover
The volunteer agreement is not compulsory, but sets out what you can expect from the organisation you’re volunteering for. It does not form a contract between you and the organisation.
The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) has information on volunteers’ legal status.