Our ‘Step Into Volunteering’ training module provides a free and simple overview of what volunteering is, what to expect, the benefits of getting involved, and how to use your experience to enhance your employability. To help you prepare for volunteering, anyone in Inverclyde can access the training here.

Q: 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 opportunity adverts detail minimum age requirements, if not it is a good idea to speak to the organisation before applying or if you’re unsure then contact us.

Q: 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.

Q: How long do I need to volunteer for, and can I leave whenever I want?

·       You can stop volunteering whenever you want to. 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 volunteering time expectations and it’s a good idea to be open with organisations about what they can expect from you.

Q: Will I 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.

Q: Will volunteering effect my benefits?

·       No, volunteering will not change or impact your benefits.

You can volunteer while receiving benefits if continue to meet all 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.