Supporting our helpers

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Attracting and inducting volunteers is just the start. Keeping them happy, engaged, and safe requires ongoing effort and appreciation.

Supporting Your Volunteers:

Show Appreciation: Regularly say thank you! Acknowledge contributions publicly (e.g., in newsletters, at events) and privately. Small gestures matter.
Provide Necessary Resources: Make sure they have the tools, equipment, or information they need to do their role effectively.
Communicate Clearly: Keep volunteers informed about club news, upcoming events, and any changes that affect them.
Offer Training (If Needed): Provide opportunities to learn new skills relevant to their role.
Listen to Feedback: Ask volunteers for their ideas and suggestions on how things could be improved.
Social Connection: Foster a sense of community. Organise social events for volunteers to connect.

Volunteer Safety (Workplace Health & Safety - WHS):

Ensuring a safe environment for everyone at the club, including volunteers, is crucial.

Legal Obligations: Clubs (especially those with paid staff) have legal duties under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. Even purely volunteer-run clubs should follow good WHS practices.
Identify Risks: Be aware of potential hazards around the club (e.g., trip hazards on courts, equipment safety, manual handling, sun exposure).
Implement Controls: Take reasonable steps to minimise risks (e.g., regular maintenance, providing safety gear like sunscreen, clear procedures).
Provide Information & Training: Make volunteers aware of safety procedures, emergency plans, and where to find the first aid kit.
Report Hazards: Encourage everyone to report any safety concerns immediately.

QLD Government Resources:

Guide: Workplace Health and Safety (PDF) (Outlines WHS basics for clubs)
Training Video: ClubIQ: Volunteer Management (YouTube) (Covers attracting, retaining, and managing volunteers)

Info: Worksafe QLD - Not-for-profit organisations and volunteers

Looking after your volunteers ensures they have a positive experience and helps keep your club running safely and effectively!