Volunteering
We are the volunteering centre for Inverclyde
We connect hundreds of people with volunteering opportunities with our platform Volunteer Inverclyde, and offer volunteer programmes that support local organisations
Volunteering FAQs
How old do I need to be to volunteer?
You can be any age to volunteer – but many opportunities do have age restrictions.
That’s typically because of the type of opportunity, or because of an organisation’s insurance.
Often an opportunity advert will detail minimum age requirements, and if it is not a good idea to speak to the organisation before applying or if you’re unsure then contact us.
How much time do I need to give?
This is up to you, and how much time you want to spend volunteering.
There are opportunities that are one-offs, which require as little as one hour a month, or those that require a few days a week.
Opportunity adverts typically detail volunteering time expectations and it’s a good idea to be open with organisations about what they can expect from you.
How long do I need to volunteer for, and can I leave whenever I want?
You can stop volunteering whenever you want.
You are under no obligation to keep volunteering for an organisation if you don’t like it.
It’s always best to communicate with the organisation as soon as possible if you are thinking about leaving.
Certain roles, like befriending, require building trust and continuity so organisations may ask for a minimum time commitment when you start volunteering with them.
Other roles are more flexible. Opportunity adverts typically detail volunteer time expectations and it’s a good idea to be open with organisations.
Will it be out of pocket?
Most organisations cover volunteer expenses.
Most commonly this includes travel expenses to and from your place of volunteering, training, and uniforms.
However, some organisations don’t pay expenses. This is typically because they don’t have sufficient funds.
It is best to speak to the organisation first about whether they cover expenses, or contact us to find out which organisations do cover expenses.
Will volunteering affect my benefits?
No, volunteering will not change or impact your benefits.
You can volunteer while receiving benefits if you continue to meet the conditions of your benefit.
You may need to tell the benefits office or your Personal Advisor about your volunteering.
You can find more information from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) here.
Can I volunteer if I have a criminal record?
Yes, you can, with some limitations.
Depending on the nature of your criminal record, you may not be able to take up some volunteering roles.
But a variety of others would still be open to you. It’s best to discuss this with the organisation you wish to volunteer with or contact us.
Do I need to provide a reference to volunteer?
You don’t always need to provide a reference – it very much depends on the opportunity and the organisation’s policies.
Those opportunities which do require a reference often are looking for a personal or character reference rather than a reference from an employer.
These are often people who have known you for at least a couple of years (though the time varies) who are not related to you.
Some common examples are friends, neighbours or friends of the family.