7th October 2013

What is a ‘volunteer’ and what is their legal status?

SHARE

7th October 2013

What is a ‘volunteer’ and what is their legal status?

Example question and answer submitted by panel member, Stephanie Merritt, Associate at Paris Smith LLP – Nov 2012

Although there is no single statutory definition of a ‘volunteer’, essentially a volunteer is an individual engaged in an activity which involves spending time, unpaid, doing something which aims to benefit a third party. Volunteers do not qualify for statutory employment rights. However, due to the range of volunteer relationships that exist, the distinction between ‘volunteer’, ‘worker’ and ‘employee’ often becomes blurred. The key consideration will be whether or not there is a contract between the organisation and its volunteers. If a contract exists it is likely to be one changing the legal status of your volunteers to that of protected employee or worker.

Want to see all Business Services in one place?

Want to see all Life Services in one place?

Want to see all Charity Education in one place?

Not sure where to start? Just want to talk to us?

What is a ‘volunteer’ and what is their legal status?

What is a ‘volunteer’ and what is their legal status?

Example question and answer submitted by panel member, Stephanie Merritt, Associate at Paris Smith LLP – Nov 2012