Through the Step into Sport programme sports leaders can receive reward and recognition for their commitment and dedication to sports volunteering. They can do this by building up hours of 'Community Volunteering' which can either be achieved through:
Community Volunteering - Part 1 (school-based volunteering)
This is aimed at young people between 14-16 years who are actively involved within a school environment. Community Volunteers will be given the opportunity to achieve a bronze award (50hrs). Hours can be accumulated from a variety of volunteering experiences on the school site including; intra school competitions; coaching; officiating, after school clubs; team manager; festival organiser.
Community Volunteering - Part 2 (community based volunteering)
This is aimed at young people aged between 16-19 years who have undertaken some leadership training previously. This usually in the form of a leadership or NGB award or even other accredited sources such as Duke of Edinburgh. This part must be undertaken in a local community sport club or other community group such as a youth club. Hours can be accumulated from a variety of volunteering experiences in the community, including; Coaching, Event volunteering, officiating, publicity, or IT/media.
Sports Leaders can work towards achieving the following three awards:
- Bronze = 50 hours (Part 1 & Part 2)
- Silver = 100 hours (Part 2 only)
- Gold = 200 + hours (Part 2 only)
Building up hours...and receive reward
All sports leaders can build up 'Community Volunteering' by registering on the Step into Sport scheme using the 'Youth Sport Trust' online passport. For further details of how to register visit the Youth Sport Trust website and click on the 'SiS Volunteer Passport' link.
A simple thank you and recognition goes along way...
All volunteers should be thanked and recognised for their efforts this is even more true for young volunteers who are looking to gain from new and valuable experiences that can help shape future careers.
If you are organising a festival or event and rely on volunteers then why not produce a simple certificate that thanks them for their efforts. Below is a template that can be downloaded and adapted to suit your event.