Agreeing your role

When an adult takes on a new role in Scouting, it is important to to agree both what the adult will do for Scouting and what Scouting will do for them. In Scouting this is known as "mutual agreement" or "agreeing the role".

How do I agree roles?
As part of the six steps to recruitment, you will have looked at the role and the tasks you need to be carried out. You will have also discussed these with the individual concerned when you asked them to volunteer.

Now you need to agree a role description with the adult. This covers:

• Role Title
• An outline of the role
• Who they will be responsible for
• Who they will be responsible to
• Who their main contacts will be
• Any requirements of the role
• Their main tasks - the tasks you came up with in step one

Oher considerations such as:

• where and when the job needs doing
• Where and when do you want the role done?
• What help will the person get?
• What equipment and facilities are available?
• How much will it cost in time and money?
• How long do you want the person to do the role for?

This part of the process can often be forgotten, but it is an essential part - particularly when it comes to retaining volunteers. Research has shown that volunteers are more likely to get involved, and stay involved, if they have a clear understanding of their role, how long they will carry it out for, and the support they will receive.

It is important to discuss with the adult you have recruited whether they can carry out all of the tasks you have highlighted, or whether some need to be taken on by another person. Be flexible, and willing to tailor the role to that individual - that way they are likely to be happier.

(Taken from ScoutBase UK)