Volunteering FAQs
This page provides some frequently asked questions about volunteering with us.
If you have a question that is not covered, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator.
Is there an age limit to volunteer?
We accept volunteers from age 18. There is no upper age limit to volunteer.
How much time per week do you require for volunteering?
All volunteers must be able to offer a minimum of four hours per week and commit to a minimum of six months volunteering with our Trust.
How do I become a volunteer?
For an application form to be sent to you by post, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator by emailing rgh-tr.volunteers@nhs.net.
Do I need references?
You are required to supply full details of two people who have known you for more than three years and can supply a reference. These individuals cannot be related to you.
Do I need a DBS?
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be carried out at no cost to you.
Will I have to attend an interview?
All potential volunteers are invited to attend an interview with our Volunteer Coordinator and one other member of the volunteer team. You will have the opportunity to ask questions at the interview.
Will I choose where I want to volunteer?
All placements are subject to availability at the time of recruitment and we will try to accommodate requests for placement areas, if possible.
We do ultimately have to place volunteers in the areas the Trust deems the most in need of volunteers. We must also consider the safest and most suitable placement for each volunteer recruited.
Will I be reimbursed to cover my expenses while volunteering?
Volunteers can be reimbursed for travel expenses within a 20 mile radius.
Volunteer references when leaving volunteering
The Volunteer Coordinator is happy to issue any volunteer with a reference regarding their time as a volunteer within the Trust subject to:
- Completion of the agreed six months volunteering period
- Regular volunteer attendance and signing of the volunteer registers
- Completion of volunteer refresher mandatory training
- Notification of intention to leave volunteering
- Return of all uniform and Trust ID badge
All references would contain volunteer’s names, start dates and leaving dates with basic volunteering duties information.