Supervising Volunteers (1 day)

Whilst Supervision of staff is a clear expectation in Social Support and Housing, the Supervision of Volunteers tends to be a rather ad hoc arrangement. Many Volunteers are left to their own devices; receiving no formal support whatsoever. This can result in the issue of Supervision tending to arise after an incident; too late.

This course is designed for senior staff and managers who have the responsibility for providing Supervision for Volunteers. The course aims to provide an accessible model that might help maximise the quality of Volunteer input; ensure safe and ethical practice and aid in the motivation and retention of volunteers.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this course learners should have understood:

• The key components of the Norman Mark model of Supervision
• The need for Volunteers to have formal Supervision
• The purpose and function of Supervision for Volunteers
• The key elements and structure of one-one, pairs and Group Supervision
• The facilitation skills that apply to all models
• Structured Supervision for Volunteers-advantages and disadvantages
• Different models of Supervision for Volunteers
• How to combine a variety of complementary models
• How to set up Supervision for Volunteers
• Structuring the session to meet a variety of needs
• Contract setting, agenda setting and recording
• The responsibilities and function of the Supervisor
• Safeguarding and Gate keeping

Training methods:

• Tutor presentations
• Word shower
• OHP/PowerPoint
• Role Play
• Group Work
• Handouts

CP234/5.9