Voluntary work and benefits

Voluntary work and benefits

Voluntary work for people on Income Support and Job Seekers Allowance.

What happens if I start voluntary work?

Voluntary work can be anything from being a good neighbour to working with charities or other organisations such as social services departments. Volunteers give their time without pay, but they may get reasonable expenses. You can do as much voluntary work as you like.

 Your JSA will not usually be affected as long as:

• You are still looking for work as agreed with your adviser
• You can be contacted quickly if the chance of a job comes up
• You are willing to go for an interview within 48 hours notice and able to start work within one week
• You do not receive any pay other than to cover expenses like fares or special clothing you need for the voluntary work

It is reasonable for the person or organisation you are doing the voluntary work for not to pay you.*
*If it is unreasonable for them not to pay you, your JSA may be reduced by an amount you could expect to be paid for the work you are doing, even though you are not being paid.

You must tell your Jobcentre Plus office or Jobcentre if you do any voluntary work. You must also tell them if you are paid in any way. This includes things that are sometimes called 'payments in kind', which could be something like meal vouchers. (Source - Job Centre Plus -Sept 2005)