Volunteer FAQs

If you want to spend some free time constructively helping us and are motivated and looking to do something rewarding then we would really like to receive a completed application form from you. You will be asked to provide the names of two referees and have an assessment meeting. We’ll supply you with an outline of the role you’ll be undertaking and a volunteer agreement. The object of this is to try, as far as possible, to match your motivation and expectations to what we need from a volunteer.

Download the application form

Any problems or if you have any questions about becoming a volunteer please email volunteering@aquarius.org.uk or Volunteering@RichmondFellowship.org.uk

The process from sending in an application to starting to volunteer with us generally takes around 8 weeks but this can vary. This is due to waiting for references, DBS check and your availability to attend our mandatory training. Completing relevant forms and submitting ID documents promptly can help speed up this process.

Generally you need to be over the age of 18 to volunteer with us; however in our young people’s services we do have volunteer opportunities for under 18s.

There are many different roles and responsibilities undertaken by our volunteers and often no two days are the same. We aim to fit your experience, skills and motivation to the different types of volunteer roles that we have. Please enquire at your local service for more details.

Yes. All volunteers required to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. We cover the cost of this.

A criminal record should not stop you volunteering with us; however it will be assessed on an individual basis and may depend on the type of role you are applying for.

We will endeavour to make any reasonable adjustments we can to meet your needs; however in some services there may be restrictions that may not make this possible. Please contact the specific services you would like to volunteer at for more details.

We’re grateful for whatever time you’re able to give. The amount of time needed is different for each volunteering opportunity. This will be discussed and agreed with you during the application process. All we ask is that you are consistent in your commitment and let us know as soon as possible if your circumstances change.

We can’t make payments or offer accommodation to you for undertaking voluntary work for us. However, we will reimburse you for legitimate expenses you’ve incurred, such as agreed travel costs.

All volunteers are required to undertake induction training prior to starting the role and any relevant additional training that you require in order to undertake your role with confidence. Training will vary between services.

As a volunteer, you will be provided with a named person who will meet with you regularly to discuss your volunteering and any successes or problems. We will do our best to help you develop and enjoy your volunteering role with us.

It is your responsibility to check how volunteering with us might affect any benefits you are receiving and to speak to your benefits advisor.

We only offer references after you have volunteered for us for over 3 months.

Vacancies will we advertised on all partner websites, and you will be able to apply but volunteers are not given priority. You will be expected to follow the standard staff recruitment process the same as everyone else.

Recovery Focus is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information. As the organisation you are applying to volunteer for we collect your personal data and are a "data controller". 

Our full privacy notice is available for download here.