How to Volunteer
If you aren’t sure if you are ready to volunteer or don’t know where to start, check out the information below. Remember to think about what you are looking for from the role as well as the type of activities you enjoy as this will help you to choose a role that interests you.
How much time can you give?
You need to be realistic about how much time you can commit to volunteering. You’ll have a much more positive experience if you avoid over committing. Some opportunities will require a regular commitment. This may be a few hours a week or a day a month. But others may just be to cover a one-off event or over a shorter period of time, for example during school holidays.
I’m not sure which opportunity is best for me
There might be several opportunities that you are interested in, or you might have some more questions about the role. Whatever the case, you can submit a question easily through the ‘Register an interest’ opportunity. Our team will then be able to answer any questions you have and help you find the best volunteering opportunity for you.
I’ve found an opportunity – what next?
Once you have found an opportunity you can use our online form to apply, and we will endeavour to respond within 3-5 days. The information required at this stage depends on the type of role you are applying for. For example, if you are applying to volunteer with children and young people you will need to provide your full employment history. To find out how we use your data you can view our privacy notice here
As part of safer recruitment, we will discuss the role further with you. You will also need to undertake an induction and training, but this will be specific to your role. For some roles you will also need to complete a DBS
Whilst we are grateful to anyone who expresses an interest in volunteering for us, it may not always be possible to find you a suitable placement, as will depend on availability, service capacity or the needs of particular customers. In these cases, we may be able to recommend or signpost you to alternative volunteer opportunities which may be of interest to you.
How can I find out about other volunteering opportunities?
If there isn’t currently a role that suits your availability or interests, you can use ‘Register an Interest’ to be put on a waitlist for opportunities we’re not currently recruiting for. You can also find out more about other volunteering opportunities in Somerset.