Volunteer at NFCA

I am interested in volunteering with you

If you're interested in volunteering with us, please read the information below. Still interested? Please not hesitated to contact us.We are also more than happy to answer any additional questions you may have.

Who can volunteer?

Almost anyone! Our volunteers have included students, former service users, job seekers, retired workers and people who are employed elsewhere full-time. All staff and volunteers are expected to be committed to our mission and values.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

There are many benefits to be gained from volunteering. It can be an effective way of gaining skills and experience that prepare you for paid work, but there are also personal benefits, such as increased confidence, the opportunity to meet new people and the sense of well-being that giving back to the community can bring.

How many hours will I have to do?

The information centre is open Mon – Fri from 9 am to 4 pm, Wye’s Buys is open Monday – Fri from 9 am to 3 pm. The days are split into a morning shift (9 am to 12.30 pm) or an afternoon shift (12.30pm until 3 or 4 pm, depending on whether you would like to volunteer in the shop or the centre). Some volunteers commit to one morning or afternoon shift each week, and others like to work full days. We cannot guarantee that you will get all of the shifts that you request as we may already be fully staffed during that period. There is no obligation to do a set amount of hours, although we do ask that you let us know if you are unable to attend as soon as you are able so that we can arrange cover.

Do I need qualifications?

You don’t need qualifications, but if you do have any specialist skills or knowledge they are certainly welcome.

Will I need to attend training?

Yes. Training is essential and will vary depending on the role; it is fairly basic and will be given on site as part of your induction. The training can be adapted, should you have any special requirements. If you do have any special requirements, please let us know what your requirements are and how we may support you.

I have a criminal conviction, can I still volunteer?

Most convictions won’t stop you from volunteering, although we need to be told of any unspent convictions.

Will I lose my benefits if I become a volunteer?

We suggest that you speak to your benefits advisor if you have any questions about any limitations that might apply to you, and please let us know of any concerns so that we may help you. If you receive benefits and are seeking work, we understand that you may need to attend interviews and so on at short notice. We ask that you let us know as soon as you are able so that we can arrange cover.

Do I need to provide references?

We ask that all volunteers provide references which should be from people who have known you for at least a year and ideally not friends or family. We ask for references to verify your identity and as a safety measure for our service users. It also helps us to assess suitability for the role. It helps if you can have contact details for your references ready for your informal interview. Please ask your references for their permission and let them know that we will be contacting them. It would also be useful to have this prepared ahead of your informal interview.

Is there a trial period?

All volunteers that are accepted are on an automatic six-month probationary period; this is a trial period where both parties get to see if the arrangement meets their standards and expectations. If you’re not happy with your volunteering for any reason, let the manager know as soon as possible; there may be something we can do to help. There is no obligation to continue if you are not happy with your role.