Volunteering with Mencap

Volunteering with Mencap

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What will I do as a volunteer with Mencap?

There are many different roles you can do as a volunteer:

  • Volunteer in a charity shop
  • Campaign or help with training sessions
  • Support people with a learning disability
  • Help at events
  • Help in the office

...and lots more!

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How old do I need to be to become a volunteer?

For most roles you need to be over 16 years old.

You will need to be over 18 years old if you are volunteering with a person with a learning disability one-to-one.

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Can I get support to volunteer?

Yes.

Please get in touch so we can talk about what roles might suit your skills and any extra support you may need.

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I don't have much time - can I still volunteer?

Yes.

The length of time depends on which role you are doing.

Some are just one day, some are every week.

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Will volunteering affect my benefits?

Volunteering should not affect your benefits.

If you have an employment advisor you could ask them for advice.

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Will volunteering cost me money?

No.

We will pay agreed out-of-pocket costs that you may have while volunteering.

If you have to spend money for travel or meals we can give you the money back.

an application form

How do I apply to be a volunteer?

1. Online, using our online volunteering system

2. Easy-read paper application contact volunteering@mencap.org.uk for an easy-read application form .

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Will I have to do an interview?

Usually we will invite you in for a short chat about the volunteer role.

Not all volunteer roles need an interview .

If you are helping at an event we may just call you to tell you more about it.

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Will I need to give references?

Some roles will need references and some won't.

We will let you know if references are needed and we will give you time to get them.

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What is a DBS check?

A DBS check is a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

It looks at whether you have a criminal record.

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Will I need a DBS check?

It is not needed for all volunteer roles.

If you need one we can help you with it.

This does not cost anything.

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I have a criminal record can I still volunteer?

Yes.

But if you want to volunteer in a role which needs a DBS check, you will need to tell us when you apply.

We will make a case by case decision about whether or not you can volunteer in this role.

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If I apply will I definitely become a volunteer?

We will look at your skills to make sure you are a good match for the volunteer role.

If we feel it is not the right role for you, we will try to suggest another role.

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How long will it be from when I apply to when I start volunteering?

We hope volunteers can start within 4 weeks of application, but sometimes DBS checks and references mean it can take longer.

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What training will I get as a volunteer?

You will have an induction session with the team you are volunteering in.

This will tell you more about your role and what is expected of you.

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What support will I get?

You will have a volunteer manager who you can go to for help, support and guidance .

You will have regular contact with this manager.

a woman pointing to a form with her pen

Can I get a reference when I finish volunteering?

Yes.

You may ask for a reference or certificate of achievement upon leaving, or sooner if you need one for a job or college application.

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Who should I contact if I have more questions about volunteering with Mencap?

Call: 01543 545002

Email: volunteering@mencap.org.uk