Archive Website of the UK government

Volunteers

If you agree with most of the statements below, there is a strong likelihood that you are a volunteer:

• you undertake work for a particular business or charitable organisation for no financial reward or benefit, aside from reimbursement of expenses
• you do not have to turn up for work if you don't want to (even if people expect you to or you generally work to a regular pattern)
• you do not have any form of contract for your work

You can be a volunteer even if you work under the supervision or control of a manager/director, or you have to meet specific standards or guidelines.

If you are paid for volunteering, or you receive another financial reward or non-financial benefit, this might be enough to form 'a contractual relationship'. This could mean that you are a worker and have employment rights. A non-financial benefit could be, for example, if you received training over and above the level needed for you to perform your work.

Example situation

If you are not sure whether you are a volunteer, you can read the following example situation. If it describes something similar to your working arrangement, it is likely that you are a volunteer.

Lisa gives up her time twice a week to assist at a local charity shop. She is not paid for this work. Although Lisa regularly works on Tuesdays and Thursdays, there is no obligation for her to turn up to work and no consequences if she misses a day.

Employment rights for volunteers

As a volunteer, you are not an employee or a worker. Your health and safety rights whilst volunteering are protected, but you do not have any employment rights.

• Your rights as a volunteer (home and community section)

Where to get help

If the statements or example do not describe your work situation, try reading the other articles in this section.

If you have read the other articles and you are still not clear contact Acas (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service). They are able to offer free, confidential and impartial advice on all employment issues, including work status.

• Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)

Useful contacts

• Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)

• Citizens Advice Bureau

• Jobcentre Plus

• businesslink.gov.uk Opens new window

• More useful contacts