1. Introduction to Johnstone Textile Space

Johnstone Textile Space (JTS) is a contemporary arts gallery in Johnstone, Renfrewshire, dedicated to celebrating cloth, community, and creativity. As a Community Interest Company, our aim is to create a welcoming and accessible space for people of all backgrounds to engage with the arts.

Volunteers are vital to our work, providing valuable support that enables us to deliver exhibitions, events, and outreach programmes. In turn, volunteering at JTS offers opportunities for learning, connection, and skill development.

This policy outlines the principles and practices that guide how we involve volunteers in our organisation.

2. Principles

At JTS, we believe that volunteering should be a positive and rewarding experience. We are committed to ensuring that:

• Volunteers are treated with respect and valued for their contributions.
• Volunteers are not used to replace paid staff but rather to enhance and support our work.
• All volunteers have equal opportunities to participate, regardless of background, and we actively encourage involvement from people with protected characteristics as defined in the Equality Act 2010.
• Volunteers are provided with meaningful roles that align with their skills and interests.
• We will provide the necessary support, training, and resources to enable volunteers to carry out their roles effectively.

3. Recruitment

We are committed to open and inclusive recruitment. Opportunities will be advertised widely, including via our website, social media, and community networks. We will use accessible language and flexible application processes to reduce barriers to volunteering.

Interested individuals will be invited for an informal discussion to explore their interests and the ways they may wish to contribute to JTS. Where appropriate, references may be requested.

4. Safeguarding and Vulnerable Groups

Volunteers working directly with children, vulnerable adults, or in positions of trust may be required to join the PVG Scheme (Protecting Vulnerable Groups). JTS will cover the associated costs and support volunteers through this process. All information will be treated confidentially.

5. Volunteer Role Descriptions and Agreements

Volunteers will be provided with a clear role description outlining their responsibilities and a volunteer agreement that sets out expectations for both JTS and the volunteer.

6. Induction and Training

All volunteers will receive an induction, including an introduction to JTS, its mission, and their role. Where necessary, additional training will be provided to ensure volunteers feel confident and prepared.

7. Volunteer Support and Development

Volunteers will have a designated point of contact — typically a staff member or steering group representative — to provide guidance and support. Regular check-ins will be offered to ensure volunteers feel valued, supported, and able to voice any concerns or ideas.

8. Expenses

We are committed to ensuring volunteering is accessible to all. Volunteers will be reimbursed for agreed expenses such as travel costs.

9. Insurance

All volunteers are covered by JTS’s insurance while engaged in agreed volunteering activities.

10. Health and Safety

JTS is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all volunteers. Volunteers will receive appropriate Health & Safety guidance as part of their induction.

11. Equal Opportunities

Volunteers will be expected to adhere to JTS’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Discrimination, harassment, or bullying will not be tolerated, and any concerns will be handled in line with our policies.

12. Resolving Issues

If a volunteer has concerns or encounters difficulties, they are encouraged to speak to their designated contact. JTS is committed to resolving issues fairly, promptly, and sensitively.

13. End of Role

Volunteers are welcome to conclude their involvement at any time. When a volunteer leaves, we will invite them to provide feedback on their experience. Volunteers can also request a reference reflecting their contribution to JTS.

14. Conclusion

JTS values the contribution of volunteers and is committed to ensuring their experience is positive, meaningful, and rewarding. This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it reflects best practice and continues to meet the needs of our volunteers and organisation.