Since 1842, the Dispensaire Français – French Benevolent Society has welcomed and supported vulnerable French and French-speaking people in the United Kingdom. Every volunteer, whether medical or social, undertakes to uphold the following principles:

1. Respect and solidarity towards everyone we support

Every person who walks through the doors of the Dispensaire is welcomed with dignity, regardless of their background, social situation, beliefs or life story. The volunteer undertakes to listen, to show kindness and to be respectful in all circumstances. No one is turned away for financial reasons — this founding principle has guided our work for more than 180 years.

2. Selfless volunteering, with no direct or indirect gain

Getting involved with the Dispensaire is a free and unpaid act of generosity. The volunteer derives no personal, financial or professional benefit from it. They act solely in the interest of the beneficiaries and of the association's mission.

3. Commitment to an accepted responsibility

Being a volunteer means taking on a role and sticking to it. The volunteer undertakes to be reliable and punctual, to honour the agreed time slots and to give notice if unavailable. Regularity and consistency are essential to providing quality support to the people who rely on us.

4. Conviviality, team spirit and rigour in action

The Dispensaire is above all a human community. The volunteer takes part in teamwork in a spirit of warm and friendly collaboration, while showing seriousness and professionalism in carrying out their duties. Rigour does not exclude conviviality — it strengthens it.

5. Complete independence from politics and religion

The Dispensaire Français is a secular and non-political association. The volunteer refrains from any form of proselytising — whether political, religious or ideological — in the course of their activities within the association. The support provided is unconditional.

6. Confidentiality and respect for privacy

The volunteer is bound by the strictest confidentiality regarding the personal, medical and social information of beneficiaries. The exchanges that take place at the Dispensaire — whether consultations, social interviews or informal conversations — remain strictly confidential. This discretion is an essential condition of the trust placed in us by the people we support.

By joining the Dispensaire Français, every volunteer undertakes to apply this charter in full. These principles are the foundation of our shared work in the service of vulnerable French speakers in the United Kingdom.

184 Hammersmith Road, London W6 7DJ — info@df-sfb.org.uk — 020 8222 8822