This article from Wales Council For Voluntary Action's website is a good introduction. You can read the policy mentioned in this article by clicking on the top file above. Be mindful when adopting a similar policy that you have engaged with organisations who work with people with experience of the criminal justice system to make sure that your practice and procedure, not just the policy, works for that potential volunteers.
In Manchester, you could speak to Step Together, an organisation .with a project supporting those with a criminal record to find volunteer opportunities. Back on Track have also produced a booklet about volunteering with a criminal record which gives brilliant examples of the transformative effect of volunteering.
The main thing is to be proportionate and manage risk as the Association of Carers outline's in their policy (available below) one must consider the context of the offence such as the type of offence, the age when they committed and not just blanket ban those with criminal convictions from contributing to your organisation. If you have this mindset then it is likely that most people with experience of the criminal justice system can find a place within your organisation.
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