Volunteer Code of Conduct

Core Values

• We want to ensure ALSA UK is a safe space for everyone, therefore it is vital every ALSA UK member and volunteer must adhere to our core values.

• Respect, Honesty, and Integrity: At ALSA UK, we believe that respect, honesty, and integrity are the foundation of everything we do. We foster an environment of trust and collaboration.

• Zero-Tolerance Policy: ALSA UK is accepting of all our differences. In order to ensure every member feels welcome and safe, we have a zero-tolerance policy against:

  • Violence

  • Abuse

  • Harassment

  • Racism

  • Sexism

  • Homophobia

  • Transphobia

  • All forms of discrimination, including discrimination towards individuals with religious beliefs and individuals with disabilities.

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A single action in violation of our values will result in you being removed as a member and volunteer.

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We encourage members to report any behaviour they feel does not align with our values to the Chair, Arisa

(info@alsauk.co.uk) or any member of the team they feel comfortable with. This ensures someone will address the issue and support those involved. The welfare of our team and members is our priority. If you wish to report an incident or have any concerns, you can report this anonymously by clicking here. Anyone found to be in violation of our core values will be removed as a volunteer and member immediately. 

 

Expectations of ALSA UK Volunteers

 

As a volunteer, you are expected to:

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1. Maintain Professionalism: Volunteers represent ALSA UK in all aspects of their role. You must conduct yourself with professionalism, both in-person and online. This includes following the rules of conduct on platforms such as Slack and ensuring your behavior aligns with the values of ALSA UK. Volunteers are expected to conduct themselves in a way that reflects positively on ALSA UK. Any behavior that brings the charity’s reputation into question may result in the volunteer being removed from their position.

2. Use of Slack:

   • Check Slack Every 72 Hours: To ensure timely communication and responses, volunteers must check Slack at least every 72 hours.

   • Professionalism: Only ALSA UK work should be discussed on Slack. No personal conversations should be had on Slack.

   • Avoid Using Other Social Media Platforms: ALSA UK work should not be discussed via other messaging services, keep it on Slack. 

   • Taking Breaks: If you need to take a break from ALSA UK work, please inform your team lead or Arisa in advance.

   • Missed Deadlines: If you are going to miss a deadline, let your team lead know in advance so that they can accommodate and re-allocate the task. It's fine if you need to push a deadline, but it's disrespectful to simply miss it and not message anyone about it. If you are found to be doing this repeatedly you will be asked to take a break from your volunteer role. 

3. Catch Up After Missing a Meeting: If you miss a meeting, review the meeting minutes and let your lead know you have read them, including any comments or suggestions. Most importantly let the team lead know you will be missing the meeting. You are not expected to attend every meeting, but you are expected to report your absence and catch up.

4. Respect for Others: Treat all members, including staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries, with kindness and respect. Always act with empathy and understanding, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

5. Accountability: Be proactive in your role and communicate any issues or challenges to your lead in a timely manner. If you can't keep on top of the workload, let someone know, its totally okay. 

6. Reporting: If you have any concerns regarding ALSA UK activities you are expected to promptly report this to Arisa so that it can be addressed promptly. 

 

What You Can Expect from Your Lead

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• A clear outline of your responsibilities and tasks.

• Understanding and support for your life outside ALSA UK, including making accommodations for exams, work, family commitments, or other personal obligations (just inform them in advance).

• Meeting minutes shared after each meeting to ensure everyone stays informed, even if they can’t attend.

• A reply to your messages on Slack within 72 hours at the maximum.

• Guidance and support in your role to help you develop professionally while contributing to the ALSA UK community.

• A maximum meeting duration of 60 minutes, and meetings will start no later than 5 minutes late to allow for smooth connection and participation.​

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Terms: 

Volunteer - An individual that has access to the ALSA UK slack and gives their free time towards ALSA UK activities. 

Team Lead - ALSA UK is organised into teams and most volunteers work within one of those teams. Each team has a Team Lead. If you are unsure who your Team Lead is you can ask Arisa.