Benefits of Recruiting Young Volunteers
Paddlesport has a great deal to offer young people and they have a huge amount to give in return. Benefits for clubs, centres and committees include:
– Young volunteers offer energy, inspiration and enthusiasm
– They have different skills to some older volunteers (i.e. IT skills and web designing)
– They have new ideas
– They can ensure sustainability of the club, centre or committee
– It may attract other young people into the organisation
– An increase in the number of volunteers for the club, centre or committee
Recruiting Young Volunteers
Local schools, colleges and universities can assist in promoting opportunities. Many schools and colleges are involved in the Step into Sport Programme or similar scheme and will have a list of young people looking for volunteering opportunities. Similarly, university students studying a sports related degree or qualification have a wide range of skills to offer and are often looking for projects to take on, i.e. assisting with club accreditations or assisting with development plans.
The Step into Paddlesport: Guide for Clubs offers more information on the Step into Sport scheme for young people.
Safeguarding & Protecting Young Volunteers
It is important for clubs, centres and committees to consider relevant Safeguarding issues when working with young people. Click here for relevant guidance and information on Safeguarding & Protecting Children and Vulnerable Adults.