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What to expect as a volunteer

Expenses and practical details

Will my expenses be covered?

Yes. We can reimburse reasonable out‑of‑pocket travel expenses, such as:

  • Bus or train fares
  • Mileage if you use your own car

To claim expenses, you’ll need to:

  • Complete a travel claim form
  • Provide receipts to support your claim

Do I need insurance?

  • If you are using your own car, you must tell your insurance company that you are using it for volunteering.
  • No other insurance is required.

Flexibility and commitment

How much time do I need to give?

Volunteering is flexible. Most people volunteer:

  • Around 2–3 hours
  • Once a week

However, this may vary depending on the role.

Can I leave if the role isn’t right for me?

Yes. You’re free to leave at any time—just let us know so we can pause or end your role.

Can I change my role if I don’t enjoy it?

Where possible, we’ll try to find a better-suited role. This depends on what is available and your suitability.

Do I need to give notice to stop volunteering?

  • There’s no formal notice period.
  • Please let your supervisor and the Volunteer Service know as soon as possible.

Volunteering with others

Can I volunteer with friends or family?

  • Yes, in many cases. However, if they use the service, there may be a conflict of interest.
  • We’ll assess this on a case‑by‑case basis.

Current and former staff

Can Trust staff or retirees volunteer?

Yes, we welcome both.

  • We’ll discuss any potential conflicts of interest,
  • We’ll help you find a suitable role.