Volunteering FAQs
We have complied a list of the most asked questions about volunteering. If you have a question that is not here please contacts us today – see details below.
How do I apply to join the volunteer team?
To make an initial enquiry please contact our Volunteer Coordinator on 01905 723 245 or email info@sightconcern.co.uk . This will give you an opportunity to find out more about us and to discuss what kind of role would suit you and what is available in your area. We will then send you an application pack and organise training appropriate for the role.
Because of the sensitive and confidential nature of much of our work, it is the charity’s policy to always take up two references. You will be asked to provide details of two people (who are not your relatives or your partner) who are willing to act as referees and who have known you for at least two years. We also carry out Criminal Records checks known as Disclosure and Barring or DBS checks for certain volunteering roles.
What support and training will I get?
All new volunteers complete an Induction and Sight Loss Awareness training. In some cases, you may receive some additional role specific training. We want to ensure you are prepared for your role and know who to come to if you need support.
Volunteers will be offered ongoing support and supervision as appropriate and this will be discussed during the induction process. Arrangements vary according to the volunteer and the role undertaken and may include telephone support, group meetings or one-to-one reviews.
We will designate an appropriate member of staff as the ‘main staff contact’ to support each role as required. Volunteers will be introduced to this staff member as part of the induction process.
How much time would I have to give?
You only volunteer as much time as you feel that you can spare. We have a range of different opportunities that suit different people’s time commitments. We are very appreciative to each and every person who gives any of their time.
I am visually impaired, can I volunteer?
Yes, a significant number of our volunteers have sight loss, we also have several volunteers with different disabilities. We work hard to make sure that disability is not a barrier to volunteering. We will work with you to understand any adaptations we may need to put in place to support you in your role.
Will I be paid expenses?
You will be entitled to reimbursement of all reasonable expenses so that you are not left out of pocket. We will ask you to produce receipts and to complete a simple expense claim form. This can be requested from the Volunteer Co-ordinator or one of our Administrators.
Can I volunteer while claiming benefits?
Yes, volunteering does not affect your financial entitlement to benefits and there are no limits to the amount of time you can volunteer if you continue to meet the conditions of the benefit you receive, however, if you are claiming Universal Credit your “Work Coach” may assign a certain level of time commitment to finding employment so you should discuss any time you spend volunteering with them to make sure you are meeting your claimant commitments while volunteering. You can read more information about volunteering and benefits on the government website www.gov.uk/volunteering or contact us here.
Sight Concern Worcestershire
Registered Charity: 1136716
Company number: 07258623
The Bradbury Centre
2 Sansome Walk
Worcester
Worcestershire
WR1 1LH
