Volunteer Safety in Charities Becoming a Growing Sector Priority

Across the UK charity sector, there is growing recognition that volunteer safety and support needs greater attention.

Sector bodies are highlighting the importance of clearer reporting routes, better safeguarding awareness, and stronger wellbeing support for those working on the frontline.

Why this matters
Volunteers often represent the organisation in real-world settings. They are interacting with communities, supporting services, and responding to situations as they arise.

But many report uncertainty around:

• how to raise concerns
• what happens after they do
• whether they will be supported

That uncertainty can lead to hesitation and hesitation can create risk.

Emmaus Safe perspective
Safety systems only work when everyone understands them.

That includes volunteers.

Clear reporting pathways, consistent communication, and confident leadership all play a role in helping people act when it matters.

Because in practice, safety doesn’t depend on who is employed and who isn’t.
It depends on whether people feel able to speak up and know what to do next.

Source
National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) — Volunteer safety and wellbeing guidance