Useful Info & Policy Templates for Friends groups
This page brings together a selection of useful documents and templates designed to support open space Friends Groups. Whether you’re setting up a new group or looking to strengthen an existing one, you’ll find practical tools here to help. From model constitutions and guidance on setting up a Friends Group, to policy templates like Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, and information on returning your group’s volunteering data – these resources are here to make running your group easier and more effective!
Model Constitutions (ground rules) for new Friends groups
Find practical advice on how to bring people together, set up a formal group, and work positively with landowners like Birmingham City Council. You’ll also find downloadable templates, including our Model Constitutions – to help you get organised and apply for funding. Starting a group might seem daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone – and we’re here to help!
Template Policies for Friends groups
As your group grows, having clear policies in place helps keep everyone safe, organised, and on the same page. We’ve put together a set of useful policy templates that you can adapt to suit your group’s needs – download templates documents such as Health & Safety, Safeguarding, Equality & Diversity, and Volunteer Management – to help your group run smoothly!
Bank Accounts for Friends groups
Having a bank account helps your Friends group manage funds safely, transparently and allows you to access grant funding. Many banks offer community or “treasurers” accounts designed for voluntary groups. On this page you’ll find tips on what to look for, plus a link to the Resource Centre’s detailed guide comparing high street options.
Events Planning
This section has key resources to help, including safety guides, event manuals, and Birmingham City Council’s advice for hosting events in green spaces.
Help with Funding
Looking to fund a project in your local park or green space? BOSF can help connect you with funding opportunities, offer advice on applications, and share tips from other successful groups.
How to return Volunteer Data
We ask all our member groups to return monthly volunteer data so we can show the real value of your work – whether it’s litter picking, gardening, leading a walk, or putting up posters. These figures help secure insurance, support funding bids, and highlight the impact of volunteers across Birmingham’s parks and open spaces.
FAQ about BOSF member Insurance
We encourage all our member groups to take advantage of the free insurance provided to them if volunteering on Birmingham Council land. Member groups should be able to identify risks and put steps in place to reduce risks and hazards to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of volunteers, service users and members of the general public. Click the link below to see exactly what this insurance covers.
Introduction to GDPR
This section of the BOSF Toolkit gives a simple introduction to the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) — what it means for small voluntary groups, how it affects the way you handle personal data, and the practical steps you can take to stay compliant. If your group collects contact details, stores photos, or sends out emails, this is essential reading.
