Training and development for association volunteers: how to get started
Which training courses are worthwhile?
That depends on your activities, but there are several training courses that are relevant for almost any association or venue:
BHV (Bedrijfshulpverlening) —
If you rent out spaces or organise activities, it is mandatory to have certified BHV personnel on site. A BHV course typically costs €150–€250 per person and must be repeated periodically. Ensure there is always at least one BHV-certified person present at activities. See also safety in your facility.
First Aid
A First Aid certificate is a valuable addition, especially for sports clubs and activities for vulnerable groups. The Rode Kruis and various training centres offer accessible courses.
Social Hygiene
If you run a canteen or bar, a Social Hygiene certificate is legally required for the manager. This certificate is also a good foundation for bartenders: it covers responsible alcohol consumption, dealing with difficult situations and legislation.
AVG and privacy awareness
Volunteers regularly work with personal data of members, tenants or visitors. A brief awareness session on the AVG and which data they may view is relevant for almost every volunteer. More about AVG for associations.
Communication and conflict management
Volunteers who interact with visitors, tenants or other volunteers benefit from basic training in communication. How do you handle an unhappy tenant? How do you set boundaries? These kinds of trainings are often available through local authorities or volunteer support points, sometimes free.
Training budget
Many organisations forget to include a line for training in the annual budget. Budget at least €200–€500 per year for a small organisation, depending on the number of volunteers and the required certifications. BHV and First Aid are the largest cost items.
Where can you find training?
- Local volunteer support points often offer free or heavily subsidised training
- Movisie and NOV (national knowledge organisations for volunteering)
- Rode Kruis, First Aid and BHV
- Online platforms. For short awareness courses on AVG, communication, etc.
Documenting in the Volunteer Policy
Describe in your volunteer policy which trainings are mandatory for which roles and how you reimburse the costs. This makes it clear to new volunteers from the start what is expected of them.