Thinking about volunteering but not sure where to start? Here are some answers to common questions about volunteering and how Volunteer Centre Sutton can help.

What is volunteering?

Volunteering means giving your time to support a charity, community organisation or cause without being paid. People volunteer for many different reasons – to help others, meet new people, gain experience, learn new skills, improve confidence or simply try something new.

Do I need previous experience?

Not necessarily. Many volunteering roles are open to people without previous experience and provide training or support. Read the role description carefully to see what is required.

How much time do I need to give?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some roles need a regular weekly commitment, while others are flexible, occasional or one-off. You can use the filters on our Volunteer Hub to look for opportunities that fit around your availability.

Can volunteering help me get a job?

Yes. Volunteering can help you gain practical experience, develop transferable skills, build confidence and strengthen your CV. It can also help you explore different types of work and make useful connections. Read more here "Volunteering while looking for work".

What if I have a disability or additional needs?

There are volunteering opportunities for people with different abilities and support needs. Read more here "Volunteering if you have a disability or additional needs".

How do I find a volunteering opportunity?

Visit our Volunteer Hub to search local opportunities by area, type of activity, availability and other criteria. When you find a role you are interested in, you can complete the short online form and tell the organisation why you are interested. We check your application and usually send it to the organisation within three working days.

What happens after I apply?

The organisation will usually contact you within 10 working days to explain what happens next. Depending on the role, this could include an informal conversation or interview, references or a DBS check.

Will I have to pay for travel costs?

This depends on the volunteering role and the organisation. Some organisations may reimburse reasonable travel expenses, while others may not, so it’s a good idea to check the role details or ask the organisation before you start.

Can I leave a volunteering role if it isn’t for me?

Absolutely! Volunteering should be something you enjoy. If you find that a role isn’t quite right for you, just have a chat with the organisation. They’ll be happy to discuss your options, whether that’s trying something different or deciding to move on.

Can I volunteer if I have a criminal conviction?

Yes, having a criminal conviction doesn’t automatically prevent you from volunteering. Some roles may have specific requirements, such as a DBS check, but there are lots of volunteering opportunities available. Read more "Understanding DBS Checks".