Find out more about volunteering, how to apply, what skills you may need, what happens if you incur any expenses and lots more. Below are questions we are most commonly asked about volunteering.
How do I apply?
All of our volunteer roles are managed by our . Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator for an application form.
Will I be interviewed?
No, there will be no formal interview ... but we will meet you for an informal two-way chat. This will be an opportunity for you to get to know more about The PSP Association and the volunteering opportunities we have and for us to get to know you a little and understand exactly how you would like to help us.
Will you take up references or ask for other checks?
Yes, we will take up a reference but there are currently no other checks.
What skills do I need?
This depends on the volunteering role - we will work with you to match the most appropriate volunteering role with your skills and experience. We will also provide you with the training and support you need to carry out your volunteering role effectively. We want volunteering to be a positive experience for you and will support you to settle into your role.
Will I get any training?
You will meet The PSP Association staff, who will explain what they do and how their role fits into the overall scheme of things. You will also receive 1:1 support so that you fully understand the tasks you are undertaking and how you fit into ‘the bigger picture'. Most volunteer roles will require very little training. When you come along to meet us for the first time and have an informal chat we will discuss the role and decide whether or not you need any specific training.
What sort of support can I expect?
You will be given a Volunteer Role Description and support from a staff member as well as training if required. Whatever you do for us, we will make sure you enjoy volunteering with The PSP Association and have everything you need.
How much time would I have to give?
This depends on your volunteer role and what time you will be able to give us. Whether it is a couple of hours a week or two mornings a week term-time only - your time with us will be very much appreciated.
Do I have to make a regular commitment?
This depends on the volunteer role; some roles require a regular commitment, while others are very flexible. We will arrange the role to fit in with you and if your availability changes we will either change your role or find something else that meets your requirements.
Will I be paid expenses?
Yes, we offer our volunteers all out of pocket expenses incurred as a direct result of volunteering. However, we try to ensure that our volunteers do not travel long distances to their volunteering role, as a result we find many volunteers choose not to claim their expenses. This is recorded as a ‘ in kind' towards the work of the charity, for which we are very grateful.
Will volunteering affect my benefits?
Any money given to you is to repay you the expenses you incur as a direct result of volunteering, for example your bus fare from your home to the place where you are volunteering. Volunteering will not affect your Incapacity Benefit, Disability Living Allowance, Income Support or Jobseekers Allowance. If you receive Job Seekers Allowance, then you must actively look for paid work as well as volunteering, but the Job Centre will give you notice when they call you for an interview.
Who volunteers with The PSP Association?
Our volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds and age groups. To find out more about the people who volunteer with us take a look at our Volunteer Case Studies.
Can I leave if I don't enjoy being a volunteer?
Yes, if you are unhappy about your role, or your ability to volunteer has changed we will fully understand. We would ask that you tell us as soon as possible why you want to leave. Whatever happens we are very grateful for all the support you have given to The PSP Association.