Volunteer frequently asked questions
Who can volunteer?
We welcome interest from anyone who has the time and passion to commit to volunteering for Age UK Exeter. From regular weekly activities to one-off events, we hope to have something for all ages and skill sets.
How much time do I need to commit?
Most of our volunteer roles require a regular commitment of one hour or more per week, but we also have one-off events or tasks that might need volunteer help on occasion.
What can I expect from volunteering at Age UK Exeter?
We want you to enjoy working as our volunteer and will do what we can to make that happen. We will look to match your skills and experience with the right role wherever possible and to listen to your motivations and aspirations. We will provide appropriate support and training, including placing you with trained members of staff who can advise and guide you. We will offer you a formal yearly review, invite you to our events and keep you informed about future volunteering opportunities.
What do Age UK volunteers do?
Volunteers are involved in all aspects of the charity from being a trustee to day-to-day administration. Volunteers also assist in our day centre and offer our volunteer visiting service.
Will I have to pay my own bus fare or petrol costs?
No, all reasonable travel expenses that arise from volunteering will be reimbursed. This includes public transport within the city and petrol costs if you use your car in your voluntary role.
I’m working full-time, can I still volunteer?
Most of our activities take place during the week during normal working hours. However, our amazing task force volunteers support us across the year with one-off events and fundraising activities, which often take place during the evening or weekends.
Can I claim benefits while volunteering?
Yes, volunteering does not affect your benefits as you will not be receiving payment other than travel expenses if appropriate. You will need to let the Job Centre know that you are volunteering and must abide by the conditions set out by them.
Do I need any skills or qualifications?
Most volunteer roles don’t require specific qualifications, although good inter-personal and listening skills are helpful. All volunteers will receive appropriate support and training.
Will I have to complete an application form or have an interview?
We ask anyone who is volunteering with us to attend an informal chat. This is a two-way process and enables you to ask questions as well as us assessing what role might suit you. If still interested, you will be given an application form, that will require you to provide references. Please note for some roles, a DBS check will also be required. We can provide support if you need additional support to prepare your application.
What training and support will I get?
All volunteers will receive a thorough induction, training, and support. You will be offered a formal yearly review and will be invited to our events and activities.
Are childcare costs covered?
No, unfortunately we don’t have the resources to cover childcare costs.
What volunteering opportunities are there for students?
Most of our volunteer roles are suitable for students as long as you have availability in your timetable during the week. Please note some roles are only suitable for those over the age of 18. We also take students for work experience and work placements if they show a passion for working with older people, adult social care, or the charitable sector.
If you are interested in work experience, please email us on info@ageukexeter.org.uk and consider your responses to the following questions:
- Why you would like to complete work experience at Age UK Exeter
- Any experience you have of helping older people
- The dates you would be available to complete your work experience
Can I leave if I don’t like it?
Yes, of course you can. However, we would ask that you speak to us first to see if anything can be done to improve your experience, such as changing your role to something you find more enjoyable.
How do I apply or get more information?
Contact us on 01392 202092 and express your interest in volunteering and we will invite you for an informal chat.
Links:
Click here to see our volunteering policy
DBS https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service/about
Here you can find handbooks to download which include useful information for becoming a volunteer: