Who can volunteer?
Anyone can volunteer – from teenagers to senior citizens, employed or unemployed, highly skilled or unskilled, disabled or not. There are jobs for people who have no previous experience, and for those with specific skills they wish to offer. We are an Equal Opportunities organisation, and the Volunter Centre Manager is willing to discuss the possibilities whatever your situation.
How much time must I give?
That is entirely up to you. An hour or two a week or as much time as you want to fill. Some people like to take on a regular commitment, while others prefer to be available for “one-off” tasks, which come up from time to time.
What kinds of voluntary work are available?
People are often surprised at the range of volunteering opportunities available in this area. You can work on your own or as part of a team, do practical tasks, or simply visit someone who is lonely. Volunteers are needed to work with children and young people, with older people, with people with disabilities, in social clubs, fundraising, giving advice or counselling, working in charity shops, working on environmental projects, and doing the administrative jobs which underpin all the others. The list is endless!
To see some of the current vacancies, go to the Volunteer Vacancies page or visit
http://www.do-it.org.uk/ .More information is available at the Ripon CVS Volunteer Centre.
What if I am on benefits?
This is no bar to doing voluntary work – in fact, voluntary work can enhance your employment prospects. However, regulations change from time to time and you need to check if there are any conditions attached to your particular benefit. We can help you get this information.
So if you are thinking about volunteering, do something now and contact
Robyn Harrison, Volunteer Centre Manager.