Adult volunteers and adult members policy

Policy last updated 14 January 2026.

See change log for recent updates to this webpage.

Find out what's changed and why in our most recent updates to this procedure.

When you join Girlguiding you become part of an inspirational movement of volunteers who give their time to help all girls know they can do anything.

This policy applies to all adult volunteers and adult members (all referred to as volunteers in policies), in Girlguiding. It explains what it means to be an adult volunteer and adult member in Girlguiding. It includes what Girlguiding offers to and expects of adult volunteers and adult members, including our expectation for those involved in paying the annual subscription.

Our glossary lays out a few definitions of key terms that are used across our policies - take a look. 

Girlguiding's commitment to adult volunteers and adult members

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply to join Girlguiding in an adult volunteer role, though some roles are only open to women.

Adult volunteers and adult members in Girlguiding:

• Become part of the Girlguiding community in their local area.
• Volunteer alongside others to create great experiences for girls.
• May wear guiding uniform or volunteer clothing appropriate to their role and the occasion.
• Are provided with training opportunities so they can grow their skills and confidence in guiding and beyond.
• Get access to offers and discounts from our partners. These can be found in the 'Member benefits' section on GO. 

Expectations

All adult volunteers and adult members in Girlguiding must:

• Follow the policies and procedures relevant to your role, and stay up to date on any changes. 
• Read, understand and follow the code of conduct.
• Complete and renew mandatory training.
• Comply with all applicable UK laws and guidance. If your unit is based outside the UK or you’re part of an activity outside the UK, you must follow the law of that country.
• Complete our recruitment and vetting requirements, including keeping relevant disclosure checks up to date.
• Register on the Girlguiding membership system, GO, and keep your details up to date with a working email address that only you can access. 
• Deliver the Girlguiding programme to young members if you’re a unit volunteer. If volunteering with adults, support them to meet the Girlguiding programme requirements, to play your part in giving a consistently great Girlguiding experience.
• Never endorse political parties or candidates in your role with Girlguiding.
• Follow our guidance when working with the media. 
• Follow Girlguiding’s code of conduct online as you would offline.

Set up and use social media accounts responsibly. See our using social media procedure for more information.

Volunteers involved in paying the annual subscription must ensure it is paid in full by the published deadline and follow the annual subscription procedure.

We manage breaches of this policy by adult volunteers and adult members under our managing concerns about adult volunteers policy and procedure.