I want to volunteer

FAQs

• Volunteering
• Saltire Awards

• • How can you help me find somewhere to volunteer?

    We help groups and organisations looking for new volunteers. You can find a list of the current opportunities on the Volunteering Opportunities page.

    If you do not see the right role for you, we can contact the groups and organisations you might be interested in working with and find out if they are looking for volunteers.

  • How much time do I need to volunteer?

    You decide how much time you spend volunteering. You can make a regular commitment or get involved in a one-off event. You can help out at a group or organisation for an hour a month or give several hours a couple of times a week. It is based entirely on how much time you would like to give.

    A certain amount of commitment is always required when you volunteer and some groups and organisations can be more flexible than others. This is because you will need to build up trust with another person.

  • What if none of the opportunities available suit my interests?

    If you do not see the right opportunity for you on our list get in touch with us. We can discuss the kind of role you are looking for and then speak to groups and organisations to find out if they need volunteers. You could even try one of the opportunities and see if you like it – it might surprise you!

  • What if I no longer want to volunteer or I do not like the role?

    If you no longer want to volunteer or are unhappy in your role, it is a good idea to speak to the group or organisation's volunteer supervisor or manager. You can then explain why you want to stop, and they may have ideas about how they could make your experience better.

    You can also speak to us at if there is an issue you would like advice on or if you would like us to help you find a different role to try.

  • Do I get my expenses paid?

    Some groups and organisations will pay you for your expenses but others may not if they cannot afford it.

    Before you start your role, you should ask your supervisor or manager if they cover the cost of your expenses. This could be the cost of travel or meals while you carry out your volunteering.

  • Can I claim benefits while volunteering?

    You can volunteer when you are claiming benefits. Volunteering can be a good way to gain new skills and experience if you are looking for employment. Before you start your volunteering role you should always check with your work coach that it does not affect the conditions of your benefits.

    You can also find more information about volunteering and claiming benefits on the UK Government website.

  • Do I need qualifications to volunteer?

    Not usually, no. Some volunteering opportunities require certain skills such as counselling which may require qualifications, but organisations often provide training.

    It is more common for groups and organisations to look for personal skills, such as being able to get on with a wide variety of people, being reliable and being enthusiastic about a particular interest or cause.

  • Will I get training?

    This can vary depending on the group or organisation and the work they do. Some roles require little or no training and others need quite a bit. Your volunteer manager or supervisor will tell you if any training is needed and support you through the process.

    Everyone will be given an induction into their volunteer role and we encourage you to learn more about the group or organisation by visiting their website and looking at their social media.

    You can also contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

  • Can I volunteer online or from home?

    Yes. There are some opportunities you can get involved in online or from home. This could be things like helping with social media, translating languages or providing support with admin. Another way to support a charity from home is to use crafts like knitting to produce items to sell for charity - the possibilities are endless!

    In our Volunteering Opportunities list, you can find opportunities with national organisations looking for help from across the UK.

  • How old do I have to be to Volunteer?

    You can be any age to volunteer but some opportunities may have age restrictions. This can be because of the type of opportunity or because of their insurance or their policies. It is worth checking with the group or organisation if you are unsure.

  • What support will I get when I volunteer?

    When you start volunteering with the group or organisation you will usually be given an induction. Your volunteer supervisor will tell you what you need to know and support you in your role. You can also contact us if you would like to talk to us about anything and we will do what we can to help.

  • I have been told I need a PVG certificate but do not know what that is?

    You may be asked to join Disclosure Scotland's Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme if you are volunteering with vulnerable people. This is where Disclosure Scotland checks that you are suitable to work with young people (under 16) and vulnerable adults. The group or organisation you are volunteering with will arrange this for you and provide the relevant application forms for you to complete.

    For information about PVGs and to apply online visit the Volunteering Scotland website. To find out more about the system, got to the Disclosure Scotland website.

• • What are the Saltire Awards?

    The Saltire Awards are the Scottish Government’s way of celebrating, recognising and rewarding the commitment, contribution and achievements of young volunteers aged 12 - 25 in Scotland.

    Young people gain nationally recognised certificates which are signed by Scottish Government Ministers. There are different levels of award based on the number of volunteering hours completed, as well as the Summit Award which recognises excellence in volunteering.

    Those who achieve a Summit Award or certificates of 100 hours and above receive passes to cinema and leisure facilities through The Picky Rewards scheme.

  • Who are the Saltire Awards for?

    Any young volunteer aged 12-25 is eligible to register for the Saltire Awards. Additionally, volunteers can log completed volunteering hours from up to two years ago, meaning that Saltire Award recipients can be aged up to 27.

  • Does it cost anything?

    No – registering for the Saltire Awards is completely free.

  • How do I register?

    Go to the Saltire Awards website to get started.

  • Do I need to be registered with VAO to register for the Saltire Awards?

    No, whether you volunteer through VAO or with another organisation you can register for the Saltire Awards.