- Does volunteering take up a lot of time?
The time commitment for volunteering is very flexible. It will depend on the requirements of the project that you want to volunteer with and your availability. It could be something from once every few weeks, to weekly sessions. You can most likely find a role that suits your time availability!
- What is a DBS check? Do I need one?
If the Student-Led Project that you are part of works with children or vulnerable adults, you may be asked to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. DBS stands for Disclosure and Barring Service, and it is the government body responsible for checking people’s criminal records. Your Project Leader will be able to let you know if you need one.
- How do I get a DBS check? Is a DBS check free?
If you do need a DBS check, you should apply through the Volunteering Service, and this will be free of charge. Please see our guidance on how to apply for a DBS Check.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]
- I need a DBS check, but I am struggling to find suitable forms of ID. Can I still get a DBS?
It is the Disclosure and Barring Service that determines what types of identification can be submitted, not the volunteering service. A DBS check is an official check, which means that unfortunately it is not possible to get a DBS check without three forms of ID that meet the requirements of the Disclosure and Barring Service.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at [email protected]
- How do I claim travel expenses?
If you’re volunteering with one of our registered Student-Led Projects, then you can claim your expenses from the Volunteering Service. Please note that we will pay for bus, tube or standard class rail travel within Transport for London Zones 1-6.
Please see details on what constitutes appropriate proof of travel and how to claim back travel expenses.
- Do I need to complete any training?
If the Student-Led Project (SLP) you are part of works with children, you will need to complete the Volunteering Service’s online Volunteering with Children Course. There might also be other trainings that are specific to the SLP you are volunteering with.
- Who should I contact if I have questions about my volunteering role/activities?
Your first point of contact if you have any questions about your role or the volunteering activities should be the Project Leaders. Project Leaders are the ones that manage and organise the project, so they will have the most up-to-date and accurate information about the project. However, if you are unable to reach the Project Leaders, or experience any issues, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected].
- What should I do if I am having problems with my volunteering?
If you have any issues regarding your volunteering activities, including any problems with the team or Project Leaders, and you don’t know how to resolve these or are unsure what the best way forward is, you can contact our team at [email protected] for advice. We are in constant communication with the Project Leaders of our Student-Led Projects and are able to offer support to any volunteer from our programme, thus, we encourage you to take advantage of this and reach out anytime you need guidance.
- What if I want to start my own Student-Led Project?
If you have an idea for a new project, we can help you set this up. You can submit your new project idea and see our FAQ for Project Leaders.
If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]
