Volunteer Code of Conduct

Purpose

This document sets out mutual expectations between Petersfield’s Shine Radio and its volunteers, ensuring we maintain our high standards of broadcasting and conduct while fulfilling our community role.

Where we say “station management” in this document it refers to a member of the Board of Directors (Stephen Martin, Claire Vennis, Alan Cosh, David Bowers, Laura Sheppard) or Compliance Officer (Kate Fairweather). Our safeguarding officer is board member Claire Vennis.

Our Commitment to Volunteers

Shine Radio commits to:

1. Provide comprehensive training in broadcasting and compliance
2. Ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment
3. Offer opportunities for skills development
4. Value and respect your contribution
5. Provide clear guidance and support

Volunteer Commitment to the Station

General Conduct

As a volunteer, I agree to:

1. Uphold the station’s values and reputation at all times
2. Treat all station members, guests, and public with respect
3. Respect everyone’s right to personal privacy and ensure that personal information is kept secure and not disclosed
4. Be reliable and organise replacement cover if I am unable to cover my commitments
5. Help with the fundraising and the finding and induction of new volunteers
6. Follow station policies, procedures, and safety guidelines
7. Attend required training sessions
8. Maintain confidentiality regarding station operations
9. Report any concerns promptly to station management
10. Behave in a way that does not bring the station into disrepute

Professional Behaviour

When representing the station, I will:

1. Identify myself clearly as a Shine Radio volunteer
2. Maintain professional boundaries with interviewees and public
3. Dress appropriately for public-facing activities
4. Not use my station role for personal gain or advantage
5. Follow agreed interview protocols and consent procedures
6. Respect the personal boundaries and privacy of others

Public Events and External Activities

When attending events or conducting interviews, I will:

1. Wear station identification when provided
2. Follow event-specific briefings and guidelines
3. Obtain necessary permissions before recording
4. Respect restricted areas and access limitations
5. Not consume alcohol while on station business unless editorially relevant
6. Maintain professional conduct throughout the activity

Safeguarding

I understand that:

1. The station works with young people and vulnerable adults
2. I must complete safeguarding training if required
3. I must report any safeguarding concerns immediately
4. I must maintain appropriate boundaries at all times
5. I will follow the station’s safeguarding policies without exception

Online and Social Media Presence

When using social media, I will:

1. Maintain station impartiality on social media
2. Express any personal views in a way that does not compromise the station’s impartiality, bring it into disrepute or cause reputational damage
3. Not share confidential station information
4. Be respectful in online interaction
5. Follow station social media guidelines
6. Not create unofficial station-related accounts

Disclosure Requirements

I agree to:

1. Disclose to station management any current criminal charges or convictions
2. Disclose to station management any professional misconduct proceedings
3. Update the station about changes affecting my volunteer role
4. Inform management of any conflicts of interest
5. Report any incidents that might affect the station’s reputation to station management

Breach of Agreement

I understand that breaching this agreement may result in:

• Review of volunteer status
• Additional training requirements
• Temporary suspension from activities
• Termination of volunteer role
• Immediate suspension in cases of serious misconduct

This code will be reviewed annually. Last updated: 18 March 2025