Volunteer Managers’ Network: Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and Volunteering

All organisations – not just those working with groups traditionally considered at risk – have a duty of care and a legal responsibility for safeguarding their volunteers, employees, clients, and visitors.

One of the ways volunteer managers can keep people safe is by carrying out Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. With this in mind, the next Volunteer Managers’ Network event on 20^th January 2022 (10 -11.30am) will provide an overview of the latest DBS guidance and when it is needed, and a chance to hear how a local Bucks group working with vulnerable people use DBS checks and have adapted their services during the pandemic.

Attendees will hear from Helen Archer, Community Impact Bucks’ Safeguarding Lead, who will explain the rules surrounding DBS checks, when they are needed, and the importance of knowing your organisation’s safeguarding policies and procedures. Janet Sambrook from Dementia Action for Marlow, an unincorporated volunteer group specifically set up for those people who are living with dementia and their carers, will also be joining the session to share how they overcame challenges due to COVID-19 and their involvement with DBS checks.

There will also be a chance to reflect on some of the changes in 2020-21, including the impact of COVID restrictions on service delivery and involving volunteers, and a chance to think about the opportunities and potential challenges in the year ahead.

What attendees will gain

During the session, you will have the chance to ask Helen and Janet questions, share experiences, good practice and ideas amongst fellow volunteer managers, and will take away the following from the event:

• A clear understanding of DBS checks and when they are needed
• How to get safeguarding advice and where to report concerns in Buckinghamshire
• The importance of knowing who is the Safeguarding Lead in your organisation
• Idea of how to adapt service delivery and involve volunteers as we enter 2022 and face further disruption due to the pandemic

Who should attend?

Anyone (paid/unpaid) involved with recruiting/managing volunteers for charities, community groups or social enterprises that deliver services in Buckinghamshire. Whether you’re new in your role with lots of questions, or experienced and looking to exchange fresh ideas you are welcome.

Please note that the event is for organisations whose beneficiaries are in Buckinghamshire and priority will be given to organisations with a turnover of £100,000 or below. Spaces are limited to one representative from each organisation.

Your facilitator: Lew Headley, VCSE and Community Development Officer at Community Impact Bucks, has a background in working with children and families and mentoring young people. He has extensive experience in training volunteers, recruiting trustees, setting up small community projects, and supporting volunteers.

Feedback from past attendees: “Useful to hear about how other local organisations have adapted during the pandemic and compare with own organisation’s progress.”

How to book: The event will be held on Zoom on Thursday 20^th January from 10.00am to 11.30am. If you are unable to attend, we will be operating a waiting list and will email the recording of the main group discussion and any resources shared after the event.

Questions about this event? Please email Lew on volunteering@communityimpactbucks.org.uk