Angus Council social work given volunteers warning

Angus Council’s social work and health committee has been warned that volunteers are becoming “frustrated” with a number of issues relating to the services they provide.

In the social work and health volunteer services annual report, department director Robert Peat suggests problems related to communication, funding and training are hindering the “valuable” work of volunteers.

He claimed some participants, especially drivers, could often become confused by the failure to communicate last-minute changes on the part of various officials.

He also argued that delays in processing expenses could be problematic and that enhanced training was necessary if certain people were to be asked to provide one-to-one support for vulnerable individuals.

He explained, “Poor communication within the service can result in volunteers becoming frustrated. Numerous changes can occur on a daily basis, for example pick-up or drop-off address, time, or date and these changes need to be communicated to the volunteer.

“There are numerous links in the communication chain between teacher, carer, social worker, voluntary services staff and volunteer, which need to be clearly understood.

“A further issue relates to expenses. A delay in the processing of expenses can lead to volunteers being out of pocket for long periods of time.”

He did admit, however, that improvements had recently been made “to attempt to address this matter.”

On training, he argued that many volunteers preferred to work in a group setting and found it “daunting” to work with a service user on an individual basis.

He added, “Changes within social work services to support people to integrate into community life means that the volunteer role requires them to befriend on a one-to-one basis. Training opportunities and regular support are required.”

He also warned that the service is at risk of becoming a “faceless” organisation as most communication with volunteers is carried out in writing or by phone.

As such, he recommended volunteers were met in person before registration.

He said, “This will take time and resources but voluntary services need to meet the new volunteer, welcoming them to the department, before placing them with a service user.”

The most recent statistics state there are 153 volunteers in the social work and health department — 120 who are active and 33 who are awaiting placement.

Around 20 people ceased their involvement in the year until March 31, down from 40 the previous year.