About Lesson
As you already found out in your pre-departure training and in the ESC infokit, both volunteers and hosting/supporting organizations have defined rights and responsibilities to ensure a successful and beneficial experience. Here’s an overview:
Rights and Responsibilities of Volunteers
Rights:
- Clear Information and Guidance: Volunteers have the right to receive detailed information about the project, including objectives, tasks, working conditions, and expectations, before starting.
- Training and Support: Volunteers are entitled to receive appropriate training (pre-departure, on-arrival, and mid-term) and ongoing support throughout the project. This includes mentorship and supervision.
- Accommodation and Meals: Volunteers have the right to free accommodation and meals or a financial allowance to cover these costs during their placement.
- Travel and Insurance Coverage: Volunteers are entitled to have their travel expenses covered, including a return ticket to and from the project location. They are also provided with insurance that covers health, accidents, and liability throughout the project.
- Pocket Money: Volunteers receive a monthly allowance (pocket money) to cover personal expenses. The amount varies depending on the country where the project takes place.
- Time Off: Volunteers are entitled to weekends off, public holidays, and additional leave (two days off per month of service).
- Support for Reintegration: After completing their service, volunteers are entitled to support for reintegration, reflection on their experience, and career guidance if needed.
Responsibilities:
- Commitment to the Project: Volunteers must fulfill the tasks assigned to them with dedication, respect the project’s objectives, and adhere to the working hours and conditions agreed upon.
- Respect for Rules and Culture: Volunteers are expected to respect the rules and regulations of the hosting organization, as well as the local culture and community where the project takes place.
- Learning and Development: Volunteers should actively participate in training sessions, language courses (if provided), and personal development activities, and be open to learning new skills.
- Communication: Volunteers must maintain open and honest communication with their mentors, supervisors, and other project stakeholders, especially if any issues arise during the project.
- Health and Safety: Volunteers are responsible for taking care of their health and safety and for following safety guidelines provided by the hosting organization.
Rights and Responsibilities of Hosting/Supporting/Coordinating Organizations
Rights:
- Support from Sending Organizations: Hosting organizations and volunteers have the right to expect support from the sending organizations, including assistance with pre-departure preparations and ongoing communication.
- Adequate Preparation: Organizations are entitled to ensure that volunteers are adequately prepared about the ESC programme guidelines.
Responsibilities:
- Project Quality and Safety: Organizations must ensure that the project provides a safe and supportive environment for volunteers. This includes ensuring that the tasks assigned are meaningful, non-exploitative, and align with the project’s objectives.
- Training and Support: Hosting organizations must provide necessary training, ongoing support, and mentorship to volunteers throughout the project. This includes orientation, on-arrival training, and regular supervision.
- Logistical Support: Organizations are responsible for providing or arranging appropriate accommodation, meals, or a living allowance, and covering volunteers’ travel expenses.
- Insurance Coverage: Organizations must ensure that volunteers are covered by insurance for the duration of the project, as provided by the ESC.
- Conflict Resolution and Problem-Solving: Hosting organizations are responsible for addressing any issues or conflicts that arise during the project, providing mediation or support when necessary.
- Evaluation and Feedback: At the end of the project, organizations should conduct an evaluation of the volunteer’s performance and the overall project, and provide a Youthpass certificate if applicable.
These rights and responsibilities ensure that the ESC volunteering projects are structured, safe, and rewarding for both volunteers and organizations, promoting positive outcomes for everyone involved.