Introduction
Volunteers do fall under an organisation’s duty of care when carrying out work-related activities, including travel. The level of responsibility depends on whether the journey is personal commuting or work-related travel.
Note: When a volunteer is reimbursed for a journey from home to the workplace it is treated as work-related travel.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general guidance and informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal, or professional advice. You should consult with a qualified professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.
1️⃣ Legislation
Even though volunteers are not employees, UK law treats them similarly in terms of health and safety when they are undertaking activities on behalf of an organisation:
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 – duty of care extends to non-employees affected by the undertaking.
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 – requires risk assessments for people performing tasks under the organisation’s control.
HSE “Driving for Work” guidance – applies to volunteers if they are using a vehicle for organisational purposes.
2️⃣ Types of journeys
| Journey Type | Duty of Care Applies? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Home → volunteer location (no reimbursement) | ❌ Limited | Personal travel; organisation generally not responsible for insurance, though general safety guidance may still apply. |
| Home → volunteer location (reimbursed/paid) | ✔️ Yes | Journey becomes work-related; organisation should verify business use insurance if the volunteer uses a vehicle. |
| Travel between sites as part of volunteer duties | ✔️ Yes | Organisation must ensure safe travel and insurance coverage. |
| Using own vehicle for deliveries, visits, or activities | ✔️ Yes | Organisation should check business use insurance, roadworthiness, and compliance with driving policies. |
3️⃣ Duty of care responsibilities for volunteers
Insurance
Check that the volunteer’s vehicle has adequate cover (Business Use if reimbursed or travelling between sites).
If the organisation provides a vehicle, ensure it is insured for the intended use.
Vehicle safety
Confirm the car is MOT’d, taxed, and roadworthy.
Travel risk assessment
Assess long journeys, adverse weather, night driving, or high-risk routes.
Training and guidance
Provide guidance on safe driving practices and reporting incidents.
Policies
Maintain a Volunteer Driving Policy similar to grey fleet guidance for employees.
4️⃣ Key points
Unreimbursed personal travel (normal commute to volunteer location) is usually not covered by the organisation.
Any journey reimbursed or required for volunteer duties becomes business travel, triggering duty of care responsibilities.
Employers should document the checks and guidance to protect volunteers and the organisation from liability.