Volunteering FAQs

Why do people volunteer?

People volunteer for many reasons including:

• To make a difference
• To learn new skills
• To gain valuable experience for the future
• To fill a gap in working life
• To meet new people

Who can volunteer?

Anyone who has some time to spare can apply to become a volunteer at the hospice. Some volunteers give a few hours once a year whilst others give a weekly commitment.

Do you offer training to volunteers?

All volunteers who apply to work with patients and carers undergo an intensive training programme. Other volunteers who help with fundraising or administration are offered training suitable to the role being undertaken.

What will I get out of volunteering?

Volunteering with the St Christopher’s Group will mean you are making a difference to the patients and families that we work with. You will also learn new skills and gain new valuable experience for your CV. Our training programme for patient facing volunteers will equip you with a range of skills in order to use and further develop your competence and confidence to work with vulnerable people.

How much time do I have to give as a volunteer?

Those who volunteer alongside patients and families will be required to give a weekly commitment for up to one year following the training programme. We also require a firm commitment from those who volunteer in our shops.  Those who volunteer in administration or fundraising areas can choose the time given to suit them.

What skills do I need to volunteer?

Skills vary depending on which area you are interested in. However, it is important to remember that we do offer training suitable to each role.

What age do I need to be to volunteer?

The youngest age that we accept people to volunteer is 17 years.

Will volunteering affect my benefits?

No. Volunteering does not affect the benefit payments you receive. Volunteers are not paid for their time, but are entitled to be reimbursed for their travel. If in any doubt please speak to the local authority.

Will it cost me anything to volunteer?

No.

What is the volunteering application process?

Those who wish to volunteer alongside patients and families will need to attend for a formal interview before being selected to go forward for the training programme. All volunteers applicants, irrespective of which role you are interested in, will be asked to provide two referees. Some roles require a CRB check.