Preparing to Volunteer
To volunteer is to give your time freely and willingly to help others. Knowing what questions to ask and things to think about before your start is important
By preparing for your volunteering role you can:
- help the group you’re supporting achieve their aims
- protect the people you might be supporting
- Protect yourself
Beforehand
Who are the group you want to help?
Check out their social media pages and their website to get a full understanding of their purpose. Have a chat with other volunteers and members.
What questions can you ask the volunteering organiser?
How often do I need to work?
Is it flexible / long term / short term?
What should I wear? – uniform / attire
Do I need a DBS check – how do I get one?
Are my expenses covered?
What will I be provided with?
What are your strengths and what do you enjoy doing?
Ensure that you are clear to the group organiser about what you would like to help with to ensure the role is right for you.
Do you want to learn new skills?
Could you enhance your own CV?
How much time can you realistically give? What days / Hours
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
What support might you need?
Data Protection
When volunteering you may see personal information, which could be:-
- Addresses
- Family details
- Medical information
- Financial information
Never Share This Information
Report possible breaches of Data Protection to you group
Never – Share details
Leave messages that contain personal information
Withhold your phone number if you need to call someone (dial 141 before the number you want to call).
Safeguarding
If you are supporting children, young adults or vulnerable people there are some things you may need to be aware of:-
Ensure you are DBS Checked
Ensure you are are given Safeguarding training
Report any safeguarding issues that you are aware of or suspicious of, including harm, harassment, bullying, abuse and neglect
Never withhold any issues you are aware of.
Equality and Diversity
Treat everyone equally and respect them
Treat everyone how you would expect to be treated
Respect everyone whatever their background and beliefs