Volunteers are not free labour
Across EU member states, volunteering law varies, but common principles apply:
• A WRITTEN VOLUNTEER AGREEMENT (not an employment contract) describing the role, hours, and expenses. • EXPENSES REIMBURSED (transport, meals on long days). • APPROPRIATE INSURANCE (host organisations should carry public liability and accident cover). • SAFEGUARDING and induction before being placed with vulnerable groups. • NO 'volunteering' to fill paid roles that have just been cut — that's free labour, not volunteering, and the European Volunteer Centre actively challenges it.
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