• ACDEO recognises the important role volunteers can play in providing support to women and families through our family helpline. We are committed to providing volunteer opportunities, training and supporting our volunteers to provide effective and appropriate support to the users of our helpline.

• ACDEO is committed to using volunteers alongside our dedicated staffing team as part of our operational front-line. In consequence all volunteers will need to develop and demonstrate their capacity to listen without judgement to those who utilise the helpline, identify ways of supporting them and enabling them to access further support where necessary.

• We recognise this can be a challenging role, but it can also be a rewarding one. We will operate our volunteer programme through partnerships with Universities in the Public and Private sectors, define the qualifications and competences volunteers need to have, and also commit to providing training prior to and during the volunteer period.

Learning in a practical environment

Volunteering in ACDEO offers the opportunity to contribute to the social purpose of the organisation and to the people of Afghanistan. You will have the opportunity of learning about the challenges that women and families face and how they can be addressed, as well as a range of skills in a supportive environment

Training to undertake your role

As a new volunteer you will be given an induction programme and be provided with training as a helpline operator. Some of the training will be prior to undertaking the volunteer role, but some will during the time as a volunteer. You will receive training on a one-to-one basis and will be mentored by a supervisor who will also determine when you are sufficiently well trained to become a volunteer helpline operator.

Support for travel and subsistence costs

Volunteer positions are not paid. However, we do seek to meet your costs such as travel and subsistence which depends on availability of funding.

Security and Safeguarding

We recognise our responsibility in providing a safe and secure workplace and we therefore attempt to provide a place where you can volunteer within appropriate security safeguards. You will have the same level of security any member of staff.

Certification

We will provide a certificate of volunteering upon completion your volunteer period.

Post volunteer support

When you end your volunteer period with us, we undertake to provide references and/or testimonials as appropriate

Positive and Realistic Commitment

A commitment to the values of ACDEO and our activities to work within them

Sensitivity to the Needs of Others

An open and non-judgmental approach, which respects all people in Afghanistan. Good at listening to others, and seeing things from their point of view

Flexibility and Adaptability

Working out how to cope with new and demanding situations

Problem Solving Ability

The ability to identify how to address the challenges that callers face. An inventive and positive approach, making decisions where necessary, but also knowing when to seek guidance and support

Commitment to Learning

Wanting others to learn and understanding how you can learn and develop personally
You have been selected to volunteer for ACDEO because you have shown that you have these qualities.
You will also be expected to work within the normal rules of the organisation and follow all appropriate procedures and protocols.