We need volunteers to deliver meals and to assist with the plating of meals.

Volunteers are an important part of our service. Volunteers are responsible for the plating, packing and distribution of the meals, as well as reporting back to the Coordinator on each client’s immediate situation.

For insurance purposes, all new volunteers need to complete an application form before commencing with the service, also the Volunteer Agreement should be read and signed before you can volunteer.

Volunteers agree

• to adhere to the rules and procedures, including record-keeping requirements and confidentiality of the organisation and client information.
• not to give advice to clients.
• to treat clients with courtesy and consideration, pass on to staff any client complaints (& compliments).
• to meet time / duty commitments, or provide adequate notice so that alternate arrangements can be made.

Positions available for Volunteers:

1.       Volunteer Driver and/or Helper
Deliver meals in a responsible and friendly manner to the clients of Newcastle & District Meals on Wheels. All drivers must have a current driver's licence and vehicle registration as well as full comprehensive vehicle insurance.

2.      Volunteer Kitchen Assistant
Assist kitchen staff in the preparation and plating of meals. For safety reasons, please ensure that correct footwear is worn i.e. closed in flat heeled shoes.

Volunteer Rights and Responsibilities

Volunteers and Newcastle & District on Wheels Service have responsibilities to each other. Volunteers agree to perform specific tasks and the Service agrees to provide volunteers with a worthwhile and rewarding experience. In return, each has the right to some basic expectations of the other.

Volunteers have the right to:

• Choose suitable assignments, tasks or jobs that are worthwhile to them.
• Be given clear outlines of their responsibilities.
• Know the purpose and "ground rules" of the organisation.
• Appropriate orientation and training for their work.
• Be treated as equal co-workers regardless of age, race, religion or creed.
• Employment Opportunity, and Occupational Health and Safety legislation and organisational grievance processes.
• Sound managerial support and leadership.
• A place to work and suitable equipment and materials.
• Appropriate promotion and variety of experience.
• Be heard and make decisions.
• Be adequately insured.
• Have agreed expenses reimbursed.

Organisations have the right to:

• Expect conscientious work performance, punctuality and reliability from volunteers.
• Expect volunteers to adhere to their role descriptions/outlines.
• Make the decisions regarding the best placement of volunteers.
• Express opinions about poor volunteer effort in a diplomatic way.
• Expect loyalty to the organisation and only constructive feedback.
• Expect clear and open communication from volunteers.
• Expect volunteers to undertake training provided for them.
• Negotiate volunteer assignments.
• Follow the grievance process.
• Adhere to safety rules.
• Release volunteers under certain circumstances.