How do I apply for a volunteer role?
You can find volunteering opportunities on our website or phone us on 0751 8797 484 to discuss your requirements. Alternatively you can pop in to see us and pick up a volunteer application form.
How do I work out what role is right for me?
If you’re not sure what type of role you’re looking for have a look at the role descriptions that are available on the website for an idea of what we can offer you. If your still not sure and want to discuss your requirements please phone the Agape Centre team on 0751 8797 484.
How much time would I have to give?
This depends on you and what you’d like to do for us. Some roles are flexible and whatever time you are able give us will be much appreciated. Other roles require a more specific time commitment and this will be discussed with you.
Do I need to supply references?
The Agape Wellbeing is committed to using fair, relevant and consistent processes to assess suitability and safety of potential volunteers and staff. References help us to confirm the identity of our volunteers and to build up a better understanding of them. We take up references for all of our roles and ask you to supply this information on your application form.
Can I claim expenses?
Volunteers should not be out of pocket as a result of volunteering for us. We reimburse reasonable travel costs to and from the organisation, and other expenses by arrangement.
Will you interview me?
For all our roles we’ll invite you to meet us for a chat. It’s a chance for you to find out more about the role and the organisation and we can get to know you better and find out how to best match your skills and interest to our current need.
What if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal record does not automatically mean that you cannot volunteer with us. We recognise that potential volunteers with criminal records may fear they will not be treated fairly because of them. Where a criminal record is disclosed, we will always discuss this with you and make a decision based on the type of offence committed, how recently it occurred, your explanation of the circumstances of the offence and how relevant it is to the volunteer role you have applied for.
If you have any unspent convictions or any criminal charges which have yet to go to court you should disclose this to us on your application form.
Eligible roles (mostly those which work directly with children or vulnerable adults) require a full police background check. Your volunteer supervisor will discuss this with you where a check is required.
What skills and experience do I need?
Many roles just require your time, energy and enthusiasm! Volunteer role descriptions will list any additional skills or experience you may need.
What support and training will I be given?
Volunteers receive an induction and will be given all the training and support necessary to feel confident in the role. Staff members are on hand to provide ongoing help and support.
Can I try a role before I commit to it?
We will always do our best to discuss any volunteering role fully with our potential volunteers and match them to a suitable role however we understand that on occasions the volunteering experience does not always meet expectations. To help overcome this, we have included a 6 week trial period for all our volunteers. At the end of the 6 weeks there will be an opportunity for the volunteer and their mentor to chat together about their experience and whether they feel they are suited to the type of volunteering role they have been allocated.
None of the volunteer roles suit me, can I still help?
If you’re interested in sharing your professional skills and there are no opportunities that match this, please contact the Agape Centre team on 0751 8797 484.
