How to Volunteer

We have over 100 volunteers registered at the Centre, from a wide variety of backgrounds. Volunteering is open to everyone, on an equal opportunities basis. Anyone wishing to become a volunteer needs to fill in an application form and supply two references.

New volunteers are asked what types of activities interest them, and when they are likely to be available. These details are filed. When a suitable job comes in, relevant volunteers are contacted in turn to see if they would like to take it on. Some jobs are regular and ongoing, for example office duty, shopping, committee work, groups etc. In these there is scope for individual initiative in developing your own field for serving the community and the Centre. Such self involvement leads to a greater fulfilment in voluntary work.

However, each volunteer is free to choose their own level of involvement, and every contribution is welcome and valued. Similarly, while some volunteers join temporarily, others have a long-term commitment, several having been with the Centre since it opened.

Volunteer work is unpaid apart from expenses, but it has a number of recompenses. There is a rightful fulfilment in helping others, directly or indirectly. Volunteering also encourages social interaction with a variety of people. It promotes personal development, enables the acquisition of new skills and provides work experience.

Our volunteers have a caring role for people in the community and also toward each other. The aim is to respect everyone, to maintain confidentiality, and to be flexible.