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Frequently asked volunteer questions

• I want to volunteer what do I do next?
• Can I be reimbursed to cover my expenses while volunteering?
• Is there an age range for volunteers?
• How much time do I need to give to be a volunteer?
• Will I be interviewed?
• Will I have to attend any courses?
• Will I be given a uniform?
• What do volunteers do?
• Can I choose where I want to volunteer?
• What if I don't like my placement?
• If I am out of work and receiving benefits can I still volunteer?
• Can I leave if I don't like it?
• Will I need references?
• Will I need to supply a CV?

I want to volunteer what do I do next?

If you are interested in volunteering at UHB you can attend the volunteer open day for more information. You can apply online or contact a member of the Voluntary Services team by telephone or email on the details below:

Email: Voluntary.Services@uhb.nhs.uk
Telephone: 0121 627 7847

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Can I be reimbursed to cover my expenses while volunteering?

You can be reimbursed for your travel expenses up to a 20 mile radius. You will also be given a car parking permit if you require one, this will incur a one off charge of £10.00 to cover administration costs and deposit. The fee is refundable if you decide to withdraw your services as a volunteer.

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Is there an age range for volunteers?

You must be at least 18 years of age to volunteer at UHB, there is no upper age limit providing you are in good health.

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How much time do I need to give to be a volunteer?

You will need to volunteer for a minimum of two hours per week and a maximum of four hours a day. We expect applicants to commit to at least six months volunteering.

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Will I be interviewed?

After you have attended the Q&A Day, you will be invited to attended an interview with a member of the Voluntary Services Team. The interview will involve discussions on why you want to volunteer and the skills you have. This process helps us to find you a suitable placement within UHB to match your skills or the skills you would like to develop.

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Will I have to attend any courses?

Before you become a volunteer at UHB you will need to attend a one day induction. During the induction day you will be given instructions and guidance on:

• Infection control
• Health and Safety
• Fire procedures
• Data Protection
• Food Hygiene
• Equality and Diversity
• Security

Whilst a volunteer at UHB you will need to attend yearly update training on selected topics. This will be provided by the Learning and Development department at the Trust.

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Will I be given a uniform?

You will be issued with a uniform that is appropriate to your place of work, this can vary from a tabard, fleece, sweatshirt or polo shirt. All volunteers will be issued with an ID badge that must be worn at all times.

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What do volunteers do?

Our volunteers enhance the services already provided by paid staff, they do not replace paid staff. There are four main volunteer placements at UHB and these include, Welcomers, Ward and Outpatient department helpers and Administrators. There are other specific roles such as working in the coffee bar and patient library. As a volunteer you will be an asset to the hospital whatever role you choose to do.

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Can I choose where I want to volunteer?

We offer a wide variety of placements across the trust. During your informal chat you will be asked where you would like to volunteer and what you are hoping to gain from your placement. This will help us to find the most suitable placement for you. If there is a particular area you have in mind we will do our best to accommodate you request.

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What if I don't like my placement?

Once you have been offered your placement you will have the opportunity for regular reviews with your supervisor to discuss your progress in your placement. You can also contact the Voluntary Services team if you have any requests or questions. We value and appreciate the time you are willing to volunteer, so we will always try to help resolve any issues you may have.

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If I am out of work and receiving benefits can I still volunteer?

You can volunteer at UHB and it will not affect any benefits that you are receiving.

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Can I leave if I don't like it?

The Voluntary Services team ask that you commit yourself to at least six months volunteering. If you are unhappy with your placement, you can be placed in a different location, but we do ask that you remain in your role for a reasonable amount of time.

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Will I need references?

To volunteer at UHB you will need two references and a Criminal Records Bureau check which will be carried out by the Voluntary Services department.

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Will I need to supply a CV?

It is not necessary for you to provide a CV, however you will need to complete an application form. It will be beneficial to provide information on your current or past places of work, your interests outside of the work environment and any health related courses you have studied. 

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