Dealing with Challenging Situations and Policy Development

Supporting volunteers can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also present challenges. Whether you're currently involving volunteers, planning to recruit them, or reviewing your volunteer management practices, this practical workshop will provide the knowledge and confidence to build a positive and effective volunteering programme.

This interactive session explores how to respond to challenging situations while developing clear, practical volunteer policies that support volunteers, staff, and your organisation.

Is this workshop for you?

This workshop is ideal if you:

• Work with volunteers in your organisation.
• Are planning to recruit and involve volunteers.
• Are reviewing or updating your volunteer management policies and practices.
• Want to strengthen your organisation's approach to volunteer involvement.

What you'll learn

During this workshop, you will:

• Develop practical strategies for managing challenging situations involving volunteers.
• Understand the purpose and value of a volunteer policy.
• Learn the key elements of an effective volunteer policy.
• Begin drafting or reviewing a volunteer policy tailored to your organisation.
• Explore best practice in volunteer management.

Why have a volunteer policy?

A volunteer policy provides the foundation for effective volunteer involvement. It clearly outlines why volunteers are involved, how they are supported, and what everyone can expect. A well-designed policy helps organisations to:

• Demonstrate their commitment to supporting volunteers.
• Clearly communicate roles, expectations, and responsibilities.
• Ensure consistency and fairness in volunteer management.
• Clarify the relationship between paid staff and volunteers.
• Provide guidance on areas such as induction, training, supervision, expenses, and support.

Who Should Attend:
Volunteer Managers, Volunteer Coordinators, and staff or volunteers involved in managing volunteers across community and voluntary organisations.

Our Approach

Galway Volunteer Centre delivers volunteer management training using a practical, participative approach grounded in best practice. The workshop focuses on real-life scenarios and practical tools that participants can apply immediately within their own organisations.

GVC staff have been trained and accredited through Open College Network Northern Ireland (OCNNI) to deliver the National Volunteer Management Training Programme

Further Information:
For more information, please contact Helen Ogbu (helen@volunteergalway.ie)