Dover District Council is supporting the work of the Dover District Volunteering Centre to raise awareness of new law to protect vulnerable adults and children, and how it applies to voluntary and community groups.
New legislation from October 2009 means a change in the legal responsibilities of voluntary and community groups, as well as public and private organisations. The new Independent Safeguarding Authority Vetting and Barring Scheme means increased safeguards to protect vulnerable members of society.
Dover District Council is providing funding to the Dover District Volunteering Centre (DDVC) to offer to train up to 48 representatives from voluntary and community groups in the district. The funding will also mean free Criminal Records Bureau checks for up to 60 volunteers for those organisations taking part in the training. The training will take place in four different locations in the district, and at different times of the day to ensure that they are accessible to all groups.
Bridget Owen, Manager of the DDVC said: "I am really pleased Dover District Council is supporting this important initiative. We have a vibrant Voluntary and Community Sector in the district, which employs thousands of volunteers and staff. It is important organisations are aware of new regulations being introduced from October, which are being phased in to do more to safeguard the welfare of children and vulnerable adults."
Cllr Mrs Julie Rook, DDC Cabinet Member for Community, Citizenship, Youth and Sport said: "Volunteers play a major role in the life of our communities, and we are delighted to be able to support the excellent and very valuable work of the Volunteering Centre, and do what we can to help support and encourage those who volunteer and really get involved in the lives of their towns and villages."
To find out more about the training sessions taking place later this year, contact Bridget Owen at Dover District Volunteering Centre on 01304 367898, or email doverdvc@hotmail.com.
