Frequently asked questions

Why should I volunteer?

People get involved in volunteering for a wide range of reasons. As well as being a great way to support some of the UK's most vulnerable children, young people and families and get involved in your local community, there are also some great benefits for you. You can learn new skills, improve your CV, build your confidence and meet new people. It can also be great fun!

What can I do?

Volunteering with Action for Children can be challenging but very rewarding too. You could assist at your local Action for Children playgroup, befriend a young refugee, mentor a young person who has little contact with their family, or advise young people about dealing with issues like homelessness or drug abuse. You could volunteer for a valuable support role, like driving or administration, or you could help us to raise the funds that make the work we do possible.

How much time would I need to commit?

The time commitment is very flexible, and depends upon the role and how much you are able to offer. Some of our volunteers give two hours a fortnight, others two or three days a week, and some get involved in one-off events that last a few hours. A lack of time certainly does not mean that you cannot help us.

What skills do I need?

Most of our volunteering roles do not require you to have any particular skills beyond a willingness to get involved. If any particular skills are needed they will usually be outlined in the role description.

What training and support will I get?

It is important to us that all volunteers feel confident in their role and know exactly what they will be doing. All volunteers are given an introduction to the work of Action for Children and support from a member of staff, although the level of training you receive will depend on your role. For example if you volunteer at an Action for Children project, you will be supported by project staff and given any training you need to be able to carry out your role. You will also be given regular appraisals where you can talk about any difficulties you are having. Event and fundraising volunteers will be supported either by a local community fundraiser, or one of the event organisers.

How do I apply?

Once you have found a role that you are interested in, you will need to complete one of our application forms. Once this has been received, we will put you in direct contact with the project, fundraiser or other member of staff who will be supporting your volunteering.For more information, visit How to apply.

Will I need a CRB or disclosure check?

Action for Children has a duty to protect the children and young people that we work with, so for some of our roles we will need to carry out a CRB or disclosure check. This can take some time, but is not a difficult process and you will be given help to complete the forms if necessary.

I have a criminal record. Does that mean I can't volunteer?

That depends on what your criminal record is for. Each Action for Children project will look at volunteers individually, and make a decision based on the type of offence.

Will volunteering affect my benefits?

No. If you are claiming benefits volunteering will not affect the money you get, and you can volunteer for as many hours as you like. You should, however, tell your benefits advisor that you are volunteering.

I am disabled. Can I volunteer?

Yes. If you think your disability might make it difficult for you to volunteer, call up and have a chat with the volunteering team about your needs. We can advise on which Action for Children projects are accessible, and make sure that the staff members at your chosen project do their best to ensure you can volunteer the way you want to.

I am an asylum seeker. Can I volunteer?

Yes, you can. Action for Children is a charity and asylum seekers, even if they have been refused asylum and are waiting to go home, are allowed to volunteer for charities. You can also claim out-of-pocket expenses.