Friends of Redditch Railway Volunteer Policy
Introduction
Friends of Redditch Railway is a community-driven organisation dedicated to enhancing the railway experience for both residents and visitors. By collaborating with train operators, local authorities, and various agencies, we strive to create vibrant and welcoming spaces at Redditch Railway Station that reflect the pride and spirit of our community. Our projects range from improving the station’s aesthetics through landscaping and gardening initiatives to creating colourful and functional environments through painting and refurbishing works. Volunteers are integral to the success of these initiatives.
This Volunteer Policy outlines our commitment to volunteers, our expectations, and the essential guidelines for those who wish to participate in our projects.
1. Our Commitment to Volunteers
Friends of Redditch Railway values the contribution of volunteers and is committed to:
- Providing a safe, supportive, and positive environment for all volunteers.
- Ensuring all work is conducted in compliance with safety rules and procedures set by our partners, train operators, and relevant regulatory agencies.
- Offering meaningful, community-based opportunities for volunteers to contribute to the enhancement of Redditch Railway Station.
- Encouraging creativity, free thinking, and freedom of expression as key elements of our approach to community engagement and station improvement.
- Recognising and celebrating the diversity of thought, experience, and background among our volunteers, and supporting all forms of diversity including race, gender, religion, ability, and opinion.
2. Volunteer Responsibilities
Volunteers are expected to:
- Respect the safety rules and procedures set by Friends of Redditch Railway and any partner agencies, such as train operators and local authorities.
- Participate actively and collaboratively in projects aimed at improving Redditch Railway Station.
- Treat fellow volunteers, staff, and members of the public with respect and dignity, recognising that diverse perspectives and opinions are encouraged and valued.
- Adhere to the guidelines provided for each task, including those related to health and safety, especially when handling tools, equipment, or chemicals (e.g., paints and cleaning supplies).
- Ensure any personal protective equipment (PPE) provided is used as directed and report any hazards, near misses, or incidents immediately to project leaders.
- Respect and protect the environment, ensuring sustainable practices are followed during activities such as gardening and landscaping.
- Support the positive image of Friends of Redditch Railway by acting as ambassadors of the organisation.
3. Safety and Wellbeing
Friends of Redditch Railway takes the safety of its volunteers seriously and expects full compliance with health and safety standards. Volunteers are required to:
- Follow safety instructions from project leaders and wear appropriate PPE as required for specific tasks.
- Refrain from engaging in any activities that could compromise their safety or the safety of others.
- Report any injuries, unsafe conditions, or concerns to a supervisor immediately.
4. Freedom of Expression and Diversity
Friends of Redditch Railway supports and promotes an inclusive environment where free thinking, freedom of expression, and diversity of opinion are not only allowed but encouraged. We recognise that each volunteer brings unique perspectives, and this diversity is what helps us thrive as an organisation. We ask that volunteers:
- Respect the rights of others to express their views and opinions, even if they differ from their own.
- Engage in discussions constructively and courteously, valuing diverse contributions as part of a collaborative process.
- Commit to upholding an environment that is free from harassment, discrimination, or exclusion of any kind.
5. Training and Supervision
Volunteers will receive:
- An induction that includes a briefing on safety protocols, project guidelines, and the expectations of their role.
- Ongoing guidance from project leaders or experienced volunteers to ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently.
- Opportunities to ask questions and provide feedback on their experience to ensure the best possible volunteer experience.
6. Volunteer Agreement
By participating in the Friends of Redditch Railway volunteer programme, volunteers agree to:
- Abide by the policies outlined in this document.
- Maintain a positive attitude towards their work, fellow volunteers, and members of the public.
- Act in the best interests of Friends of Redditch Railway and the wider community.
7. Conclusion
Friends of Redditch Railway recognises the invaluable contributions of our volunteers and is committed to providing a positive, safe, and inclusive environment for all. By working together, we aim to create a brighter future for Redditch Railway and foster a community spirit that reflects the best of what Redditch has to offer.
For more information, please contact Friends of Redditch Railway.
Thank you for your commitment to enhancing Redditch Railway Station.