Rugby must introduce a Volunteers Charter say Lib Dems

Rugby Liberal Democrats have put a motion forward to be voted on at Full Council on Thursday 26 September 2019 to introduce a Volunteers Charter and Volunteers Handbook to support the fantastic range of groups that work within and for our local communities.

Rugby Borough Council is working with increasing numbers of volunteers and community groups such as the Friends of Bluebell Walk Group in Paddox Ward and Friends of East Rugby Group (FERG) in Hillmorton Ward.

Rugby Liberal Democrats believe that a Volunteers Charter must be developed and drafted that clearly demonstrates what groups and individuals can expect from the Council. We also believe that a Volunteers Handbook should be created that includes what support can be expected from the Council, along with relevant contact details.

Commenting Councillor Jerry Roodhouse (Paddox) said:

"There are many active groups working across the borough within and for our local communities. However, it's not fully clear as to their rights and responsibilities when working on or alongside Council land. There needs to be something written down in order to support these groups and ensure we enhance the fantastic job they do."

Councillor Craig McQueen (Eastlands), added:

"Volunteers need an empowering and enabling environment. A simple Charter and Handbook will ensure that volunteering groups are supported and it improves the conditions for volunteers and volunteering across Rugby borough."

Motion in Full:

This Council places on record its thanks to all Volunteers and Friends Groups which help and support our communities.

Local Authorities such as Rugby are having to work with increasing numbers of volunteers and community groups. Council requests that,

(1) a Volunteers Charter be developed and drafted that clearly demonstrates what groups and individuals can expect from the Council; and

(2) a volunteer's handbook be drafted that includes what support can be expected from the Council, along with relevant contact details.

Once drafted they should be brought back via scrutiny to Council in January.

Proposer: Councillor Jerry Roodhouse (Paddox). Seconder: Councillor Craig McQueen (Eastlands)