Calls to accredit volunteer workers
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Voluntary groups have asked the government to create a qualification to recognise the abilities of volunteer youth workers.
The National Council for Voluntary Youth Services (NCVYS) has submitted proposals for an accreditation system to the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) and urged ministers to fund research into the idea.
NCVYS's proposals aim to reward volunteers and give them incentives to train. Under the system volunteer youth workers would take part in training to develop skills, with successful candidates getting a certificate or card to show they are a recognised volunteer youth worker.
The proposals state: "As a first step, NCVYS proposes the DCSF commissions a study that will give us a clearer idea of the likely benefits, costs and risks of the scheme. This would allow us to prepare a pilot."
NCVYS is also planning to consult volunteer youth workers, local authorities and training providers on the proposals.
