 I can’t afford to volunteer
 It is important to us that it doesn’t cost you any money to volunteer. Therefore we will reimburse all of your reasonable expenses.
^ back to top I’m worried that I will lose my benefits Volunteering will not affect your benefits provided you abide by the usual regulations for that benefit. For example, it won't affect Jobseeker's Allowance provided you
- take reasonable steps to find a job
- can be available for work for 40 hours each week
- inform the Job Centre/Jobcentre Plus that you are volunteering
- can attend interview within 48 hours and take up work within one week.
^ back to top I don't have the time Our volunteer opportunities all need varying amounts of time, from advisers who usually volunteer at least two sessions per week, to our trustees who meet once every 3 months. ^ back to top I don't know anything about the law, how can I be an adviser? Most of our advisers didn't when they started either. We will provide you with the training you need and support you every step of the way. ^ back to top I don't have any skills to offer The most important quality is wanting to be a CAB volunteer. There is training available for most of our volunteering opportunities, so please don't feel you have nothing to offer. ^ back to top I'm not sure I would fit as your 'typical' volunteer Every CAB is committed to delivering a service regardless of race, gender, disability or nationality. Moreover, every CAB strives to reflect the community it represents. We therefore welcome all volunteers, and will make decisions based only on a person's ability to perform a role. ^ back to top Am I too old to volunteer? There is no 'retirement age' in volunteering, we judge everyone on their merits. ^ back to top Am I too young to volunteer? There are no age limits except for:
- Advisers – the minimum age limit is 16
- Trustees – the minimum age limit is 18 (although sometimes trustees under 18 can be appointed)
^ back to top I have a disability, can I volunteer with you? We encounter volunteers with a wide range of impairments or disabilities, which impact on the level of support we need to offer, both in terms of training and of working within the bureau.
It is therefore important that any needs are fully discussed and explored at the earliest opportunity.
The range of potential support needs that will need may include:
- the physical environment, such as space, computer equipment, an induction loop, parking
- working practices, such as the provision of training packs in a different format
- personal support such as the use of a sign interpreter, note taker or reader.
^ back to top I've never volunteered before and not sure whether it's right for me Most of our volunteers had never volunteered before either. Is it important to us that you are happy volunteering at the bureau so we will talk through with you what your role is, what our and your expectations are and how we will support you. We will also provide you with a full induction to make sure you feel part of the bureau team. ^ back to top
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