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Becoming A Volunteer - Your Questions Answered

I don't have a lot of spare time, how many hours would you expect from me as a volunteer?

All of us lead busy lives with many demands on our time. We welcome any offers of time that you are able to spare whether it's a couple of hours each month or ½ day a week. Some of our volunteers help out at events only once or twice a year.We will be in touch if we have an event at which we would like to be represented at or if collections are needed etc and you can let us know if this suits you.

What sort of jobs would I be expected to do?

The Appeal team is involved in all sorts of activities so there is bound to be something to suit your interests.Volunteers help in different ways from representing us at local fundraising events, giving talks to local community groups, collections at local stores, placing and emptying collection boxes in their local area and even help out in the office during busy periods. We would never ask you to do anything you don't feel comfortable or want to do. We are just grateful for your offer of time.

You may have some suggestions of your own and if so, we would love to hear from you.

I am not qualified as anything does this matter?

Not at all. The most important attribute that a volunteer can bring is the willingness to help in whatever way they can.

How many volunteers do you need?

There is no limit to the number of people that can volunteer for the Appeal. Every volunteer brings their own set of skills to the charity and the more volunteers we have, the more effective we can be, both in raising awareness and fundraising.

What sort of people volunteer?

Our volunteers come from all walks of life. Some are retired, others are university students, some are people who work full time and can spare the odd hour in the evening or at a weekend. What they share is a common desire to support our Cathedral and ensure its survival.

I don't live in Canterbury, does this matter?

No. We are very keen to attract volunteers from all areas to help us spread the word and represent us in their local communities. For example, you might be able to ask local shops to carry a collection box for us in areas that we cannot often get to.

How do I become a volunteer?

You need to fill in a Volunteer Application Form and return it to us.

Do I need an interview to become a volunteer?

Part of the volunteer application process is to obtain two written references.Once we have received those, you will be asked to make an appointment with our Community Fundraising Manager to have a chat about the type of volunteering you would like to do.This also is a great opportunity to find out more about the Appeal.

How long does it take to get approved?

Once your application form has been received, we write to your two referees within two working days.When we have received both references, we will than contact you to make your appointment.Therefore processing time relies heavily on your referees so our advice would be to contact them in advance of your application.

What training do you give?

We run induction courses throughout the year and other training, such as training on giving talks, is organised as the need arises.

Do you need to do any checks on me?

If you are interested in doing talks on behalf of the Appeal, new regulations require that we ask for a CRB check.

Does volunteering involve much weekend work?

Inevitably some of our events take place at weekends but if you are not available at weekends then don't worry.  The beauty of volunteering is that it gives you the opportunity to choose when you work.

Can we claim back expenses?

We recognise that volunteers are giving their time so we ensure that no volunteer is out of pocket through volunteering. Expenses can include travel expenses, car park tickets and refreshments if volunteering for a whole day but do not include such things as parking penalties and speeding tickets.

Is there a minimum age to become a volunteer?

Our minimum age for volunteers is 18.

Will I meet with the other volunteers?

One of the great things about volunteering is the opportunity it brings to meet a variety of new people who all share a common passion for the Cathedral.  You are rarely asked to do anything on your own so you will generally always have company. But if you would prefer to work with someone you know, why not get a friend to sign up as a volunteer too so you can do things together? We also have volunteer gatherings, like our Christmas lunch, where you can meet the rest of the team and swap experiences!

Want to find out more?

To find out more about volunteering please call 01227 865346 or complete our contact form and we will get back to you.