As the world prepares to mark International Volunteer Day (#IVD2015) on December 5th 2015, the team at Personnel Checks asked a range of experts - from charity representatives to seasoned volunteers - for some handy tips for first-timers to follow.
It is hoped that the awareness raised by #IVD2015 will help to swell these healthy figures even further, but before you put your name forward for voluntary roles, it’s important that you know what organisations expect from you. Here’s what the experts have to say…
1) Passion for the cause
You must have a passion and genuine interest in what you’re doing - otherwise you’re unlikely to give the role the amount of effort that it deserves.
Nikki Squelch, Head of Volunteering Development at Alzheimer’s Society, commented: “It’s very important our volunteers have an interest in the work Alzheimer’s Society do. A passion for the cause will allow volunteers to get so much more out of the role and be more motivated in their volunteering.
“People with dementia and their carers who use our services often tell us that they like volunteers who are compassionate, empathetic and patient. Whilst they may not remember the volunteer’s name week to week, they will remember how they left them feeling.”
2) Commitment - even though you’re not getting paid!
Many of us lead busy lives, and it’s natural that you’ll prioritise paid work over volunteering. That said, charities and support groups still need you to be punctual and committed. If you fail to turn up on a given day, the effects could be felt by a lot of people.
Suzanne Monks, who is a regular volunteer for Bolton Lads & Girls Club, explained that voluntary work isn’t the easy ride that some expect, but the hard work is worthwhile. “Being a volunteer isn't as easy as you think, you don't just sit down all day and have a chill. You work hard and have to keep yourself motivated. It's amazing and rewarding in so many ways. You really feel like you are making a difference.”
3) Don’t be offended if you’re asked to complete a DBS check
Depending on the type of work you’re interested in, you may be required to complete a DBS check, particularly if you’re going to be working with children or vulnerable people.
Alice Wrigley, Operations Manager at DBS checks specialist Personnel Checks, gave some details about the process. “DBS Checks (formerly CRB Checks) are available for volunteers at both Standard and Enhanced level. Volunteer checks are offered to organisations and charities at a discounted rate. In order for an applicant to qualify for a Volunteer Check they must not receive any payment (except for travel and other approved out-of-pocket expenses, be on a placement, be on a course that requires them to do this job role, or be in a trainee position that will lead to a full-time role or qualification).
“The Volunteer DBS Check can only be applied for by the Organisation or Charity that the individual is working for. An individual cannot apply for a Volunteer DBS Check on their own accord.”
4) Don’t do it for the sake of your CV
We’re constantly told that volunteering work looks great on our CV, but that doesn’t mean you should do it for the sake of it. If you’re doing it as a tick-box exercise, you won’t get anywhere near as much out of it as someone who really cares about the cause.
Jenny Harris outlined what qualities Jerry Green Dog Rescue looks for in its volunteers.
“[We need you to] be as passionate as we are about what you can do to help us make sure every dog has the loving and secure home it deserves; professional in showing nothing but compassion towards all our canine residents; and above all make it personal for the dogs in our care, adapting your approach to make sure they get what they need during their stay.”
5) Don’t rule yourself out because you lack experience
While some roles will require certain skills, you’ll find that most organisations will provide full training to their volunteers, so don’t be too quick to take yourself out of the running because you lack experience.
Bolton Hospice has more than 900 volunteers who give a combined 100,000 hours of time each year. Alice Atkinson added: “We offer full training, guidance and support so for most roles there’s no previous experience or special knowledge required, just some passion and enthusiasm for being a part of our team and playing a part in enabling us to provide specialist care and support for local people when they need it most.”
6) Do your research
As we’ve already discussed, experience isn’t always a necessity, but it’s still worth doing your homework before you apply for a voluntary role. You wouldn’t take a paid job without at least asking a few questions at the interview stage and getting a flavour for what it’s like to work there. The same applies for voluntary work.
Nikki Squelch said the Alzheimer’s Society offers as much detailed information as possible when advertising new voluntary placements. “Each of our volunteering opportunities detail exactly where the role is, what the role entails and how much time a volunteer is required to give. This allows us to be open and honest about our expectations and is helpful for volunteers to see if the opportunity is right for them from the outset.”
