Volunteering

• What if my skills don't fit your list of volunteer roles?

  Unfortunately, we don't have roles to suit every person, but everyone has something to give, so get in touch with the Voluntary Services Coordinator on 01442 869550 for a chat - the on-line list is not exhaustive. We would very much like to hear from anyone with musical, professional or specialist skills to offer to the Hospice.

   

• How much time do I need to give?

  Each role has a different time commitment. Whether you can offer a regular commitment or are happy to be on 'stand-by' for a few hours a month, you can still make a real difference to the patients and families who use the Hospice or to the staff. We are very happy to discuss levels of commitment with you.

• Do I have to commit to a weekly role?

  No - each role has a different time commitment. Whether you can offer a regular commitment or would prefer something more ad-hoc, you can still make a real difference to the patients and families who receive support from the Hospice and to the staff. We are very happy to discuss levels of commitment with you.

• Will it cost me anything?

  No - volunteering shouldn’t cost you anything.   

  If you choose to claim expenses for travelling to your volunteering role at the Hospice/our shops or for any incidental expenses they should be agreed with your Team Leader in advance of any expenditure to ensure we are able to cover this within our budget.  Your Team Leader will be able to provide you with an expense form for claims.

• Can I do my Duke of Edinburgh award with the Hospice?

  Our shops offer places for students working towards their Duke of Edinburgh awards. We can support pupils aged 14 and above in 8 of our retail outfits. Please contact the Shop Manager directly, to see if they have any spaces for Duke of Edinburgh students.

  https://www.stfrancis.org.uk/shop-with-us. 

   

• What training is involved?

  The level of training will depend on the role you will be undertaking. 

  Every new volunteer will be encouraged to attend Hospice Matters, our induction session.  This session provides an opportunity to find out more about how The Hospice of St Francis helps people to live their precious lives well. 

  It is compulsory for all roles to complete Core Mandatory Training before starting.  This training could be completed via booklet, online or face to face depending on the level of training required for your role. 

  Volunteers also receive an induction and training specific to their role e.g. how to use equipment or any particular skills required for the role.  

  There are plenty of opportunities for volunteers to undertake additional training courses through our Education and Training and Development departments.  For more information about training please speak with your Team Leader or Voluntary Services.

• How old do you have to be to volunteer?

  You can start volunteering in our shops from age 14, at our events from 15, and in our Inpatient Unit aged 16*… there is no upper age limit to volunteering!

  *Once finished Year 11

• What if I want to go on holiday?

  No problem, we just ask that you make your Team Leader aware as far in advance as possible.  This helps us to plan!  The work our volunteers do is really important and we might need to find extra cover for your absence.

• Can I volunteer if I have a previous conviction?

  Yes – A criminal conviction doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t volunteer with us.  If you have a criminal record and would like to volunteer we will need to speak to you about this and a decision will be made on a case-by-case basis.