Voluntary Action North Somerset

Volunteering FAQs

How much time have I got to give?
This will vary depending on the role you choose. Some organisations only require a few hours a week. This could be morning, afternoon or evening. Some will require a day or more a week. We will tell you at the time what sort of commitment a group are looking for to help you make your choice.

Will I lose my benefits if I volunteer?
There is a lot of confusion over whether volunteering affects benefits and it is not helped by the fact that many benefits advisors are poorly informed and often give out the wrong advice. Volunteering should not affect benefits although you will need to observe some regulations. For more information visit Volunteering England’s website.

Can volunteering lead to a job?
Whilst in itself it probably will not directly lead to a job, the right volunteering placement can give you the skills and experience to enhance your chances. It can also give you a chance to see whether your intended choice is the right one for you.

I am a recovering addict. Will anybody want me ?
We see lots of people from an addiction background and the addiction itself is not a barrier. It is however important to make sure that you start volunteering at the right time for you when you have had a chance to address your own issues. Our guide First steps to volunteering gives an outline of what groups will be wanting from you and the benefits that you can get from volunteering.

I don’t have any skills. What could I do for anyone?
We all have different things to offer. For example you may not have computer skills or other work-related skills, but you will probably have people skills, you could help out at a day centre making teas and coffees and chatting to folk. Some of our opportunities offer training so you could try your hand at something new and surprise yourself.

Will my expenses be paid?
Whilst nobody should be out of pocket through their volunteering and most of our organisations do pay expenses, sadly some are not in a position to do so. We will always tell you in the office which ones are in this position so that you can select something else if this is a problem.