FAQ
What kind of volunteering can I do?
Related reading:
What kind of opportunities are there?
What is VASA?
VASA is Voluntary Action Stratford on Avon District and we promote volunteering, support voluntary and community organisations with fundraising and training, help them recruit volunteers and represent their views with policymakers. We also run a number of services and projects.
Related reading:
Working for the community
Why you should volunteer
How can I volunteer?
Clarissa or Charles at our Volunteer Centre can tell you what opportunities are available and how you can apply. Call them on 01789 262 886.
Related reading:
Volunteer Centre
Am I too old to volunteer?
Unlikely! Over one in four over-75s have volunteered with a club or organisation at least once in the past 12 months, while 46% have given informal help.
Will I need training?
You may. Some organisations require it - others want you to use your existing skills and/or experience. They’ll make it clear when you contact them.
What is a Parish Plan?
Its a survey of where a Parish is now - and then where it would like to be in the next five years
I work full time – can I still volunteer?
Certainly! A lot of organisations need volunteers who are available in the evenings or at weekends, but check with the Volunteer Centre. Also, bear in mind that your company may offer opportunities for employee volunteering.
How much time will I need to volunteer for?
This depends on you and what you want to do, and the opportunity you choose. There are opportunities that only require a few hours a week, whereas others might take place every evening or only occasionally. It’s up to you.
Will I get training?
Because there is such a wide variety of volunteering placements available, the level of training you need also varies. For example, volunteering with the Samaritans will require a much larger training commitment than working on a conservation project. Some organisations offer training while others require you to use your existing skill base – be sure you are clear about the training requirements before you agree to volunteer.
Will I be interviewed?
Most organisations will not need to formally interview you, though they will want to at least have the opportunity to speak to you and get to know you beforehand. However, volunteering placements involving responsibility for money, or using dangerous equipment, may require a more lengthy interview.
Related reading:
Preparing for your interview