Questions and answers

I know I won't get paid for volunteering but what, if any, expenses will organisations pay for?

Most organisations will pay out of pocket expenses.  These may include travel, lunch and / or childcare when appropriate.  However, not all organisations can meet these expenses and it is advisable for you to discuss with each organisation prior to taking up a voluntary opportunity to clarify what expenses they are able to reimburse.

Can I claim benefits when I'm volunteering?

Yes you can. However, we do advise all volunteers on benefits to contact their local advice agency or the Department of UK Benefits and Pensions to seek clarification.

So, I've been referred to an organisation. What happens next?

Most organisations will want to have an informal chat with you. This gives you and the organisation the chance to assess each other. In addition it gives you the chance to get a feel for the organisation, and sometimes the opportunity to meet those people you might be working with.

If the role has some responsibility, for instance, for money, then the interview may be more formal. Most interviewers will want to know:

• Why you are interested in volunteering with them.
• What skills you have.
• What skills/knowledge you wish to develop through this opportunity.

• How much time you have to offer.

This is also a good time to ask the interviewer questions. You could ask:

• What expenses they will pay.
• What type of training and support they will provide.

• Clarification on the role and areas of responsibility (if any)

What happens if I start volunteering but decide I want to leave?

It is important for you to talk with your supervisor prior to leaving your voluntary opportunity.  This allows you to discuss any issues that may have arisen during your time with an organisation and to celebrate the work you have contributed to.  If you are unhappy with the voluntary opportunity you are undertaking and do not feel able to discuss this with your supervisor then Volunteer Centre can offer you support. They will listen to you and help you decide what if anything could be done to make the situation better. They can then pass this feedback onto the organisation on your behalf.

Do also remember that most organisations have a complaints procedure. So if you feel strongly that something should be done to address the situation you could check this out.

I work full time - so can I volunteer?

Yes you can. One of the best things about volunteering is that it can be done at a time that best fits in with your lifestyle. Volunteering can be done at weekends and evenings, as well as during the day. As well as regular on-going opportunities, Volunteer Centre Time-to-Time project offers people the opportunity to volunteer on a one-off, seasonal and/or occasional basis. Do please remember to check out with the organisation what time commitments they have in mind. You also need to be clear as to your time commitments before you volunteer.

Do I need to have qualifications?

This very much depends on the role but in the vast majority of cases qualifications are not necessary. What seems to be more important is having the right attitude and experience.

I'm interested in volunteering overseas. Can you help me?

Giving guidance on overseas opportunities can be complex. However, we have some literature which we can pass on and can put you in touch with organisations that deal specifically with this type of volunteering.

Do I need references?

Some organisations require character references, depending on the volunteer opportunity role. Here at Volunteer Centre we can advise you before we refer you onto an organisation if this is required.

Do I need to be police checked?

Organisations who require support from volunteers working with vulnerable or older people require you to undertake a criminal records check. (CRB) Please do not be put off by this. this check is for your safety as much as the organisation and/or individuals. If you have a criminal record this doesn't mean you will be automatically unable to volunteer. It depends on the offence, the length of time since the offence occurred and exactly what volunteer role you will be doing.