Frequently asked questions

Are there age restrictions to volunteering?

• Volunteers in The Depot, Hospice and community-based roles must be over the age of 18
• The minimum age to volunteer in our high-street stores is 16 (or 14 if through the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme)
• The minimum age to volunteer in The Depot Shop is 16.

Can I apply to volunteer for more than one role?

Yes, you can. We recommend that you select your preferred role on the application form and complete the section asking if you are interested in any other roles. You will then be contacted by a member of our Volunteer Engagement team to discuss further.

Can I speak to someone about volunteering options before I make an application?

Yes, we hold Volunteer Information Sessions approximately every 6 weeks, throughout the year at the Hospice. These sessions provide an overview of our volunteer roles and an opportunity to learn more about the Hospice and our services. You can discuss the roles that most interest you with a member of the Volunteer Engagement Team.

Do I need any specific skills to become a volunteer?

The majority of our roles do not require a special skill-set. If there is a requirement for a particular skill, qualification or experience this will be clearly outlined in the role description.

What is the application process?

• Complete our online application form, selecting your preferred role
• The volunteer manager for that team will contact you within 1 week to invite you to attend a taster session
• If the role requires a DBS or has specific training requirements, you will be informed by the Volunteer Engagement team.

Can I claim expenses?

Yes, we will provide details of how to do this in our Volunteer Resource Library once you have applied. You can also contact the Volunteer Engagement Team on volunteers@ghhospicecare.org.uk for more information.

What time commitment do I need to make as a volunteer?

The time commitment is flexible and very much based on when works best for you. Some of our roles benefit from a regular weekly shift. You will discuss your availability with the volunteer manager at your taster session and work out a mutually agreeable volunteering arrangement.

Will volunteering impact my benefits?

You can volunteer while claiming benefits, providing you keep to the conditions of the benefits you claim. You should inform the office paying your benefits prior to starting your volunteer role.

Do you offer student work experience placements?

Unfortunately, not at the present time.

Do you offer Duke of Edinburgh Scheme placements?

• Yes, we offer limited placements to students aged 14 years and older in our shops
• When completing the application form there is an opportunity to select that you would like to volunteer as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Do you offer Corporate Volunteering opportunities?

• Yes, we do! We partner with lots of local companies who bring groups of employees to the Hospice to volunteer in our depot or garden. We are working on new corporate volunteering opportunities, so watch this space for more information
• To find out more about corporate volunteering contact us at volunteers@ghhospicecare.org.uk.

If I have a volunteer related query or would like to provide feedback, how do I go about this?

In your volunteer role you will be supported by the Volunteer Engagement team, who are contactable on 01462 679540 and at volunteers@ghhospicecare.org.uk.