Listed below are some common questions relating to volunteering, and their answers. If you have a question that isn't covered here, please the volunteering team on 0845 6044 150 or email volunteering@mndassociation.org
Why do people get involved with the MND Association as a volunteer?
People volunteer with the MND Association for a variety of different reasons. Some volunteers have a personal experience of MND, for example they are living with MND themselves or a relative or friend may be living with MND. Other volunteers have no experience of MND and volunteer as they have certain skills required for a particular role, or they wish to gain new skills, or because the location is suitable.
Whatever your reason is for wanting to get involved, we’d love to hear from you.
How old do I need to be to volunteer?
People of all ages have something they are able to bring to the MND Association.
Some roles do carry a minimum age requirement due to our insurance. The minimum age for being part of a branch or group committee or for being an Association visitor is 18.
Do I have to make a regular commitment?
The commitment you are able to make is up to you. Some roles are very flexible, but there are, however, some roles where we would usually ask for a minimum or regular time commitment.
How are volunteers supported?
All volunteers will be appropriately supported. Support will include: a full induction into the Association; reimbursed out-of-pocket expenses; full training for the role you are undertaking; insurance cover; and access to ongoing support, supervision and feedback by a dedicated supervisor.
Can I claim expenses?
All out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed. This includes travel (car mileage and parking costs or public transport fares), as well as telephone calls, postage and any other out-of-pocket expense incurred on behalf of the Association.
Will I be interviewed?
All potential volunteers will meet with either a member of staff or a volunteer from the relevant branch or group. The meeting will provide an opportunity for us to find out what your skills and experiences are and your areas of interest. It will also provide an opportunity for you to find out more about the Association as well as to ask us any questions you may have.
I work full time, can I still volunteer?
Yes. There are plenty of volunteering opportunities that can be undertaken outside of normal office hours. Many of our existing volunteers prove it is possible to fit regular volunteering into a busy lifestyle. All you need is lots of enthusiasm and a little planning.
Can I volunteer from home?
Yes. There are a number of volunteering roles that you can do from home.
Will I get training?
You will receive any training that is relevant to your role. Some roles will require ‘on the job’ training whereas other roles, such as Association visitors, will require attendance at a formal training course.
Do I need to supply references?
We do ask all volunteers to provide details of two referees who will be approached for a reference before you start volunteering with us.
What skills and experiences do I need?
There are a wide range of volunteering roles within the Association. Some roles do require particular skills and experiences, whereas others simply require the desire to help!
Will volunteering affect my benefits?
As long as you only receive out-of-pocket expenses you are still entitled to claim benefits while volunteering. It is, however, always good practice to keep the benefits agency informed if you are volunteering.
Will I need to have a CRB check?
Certain roles, such as Association visitors, will require volunteers to have a CRB check.
What benefits will I get from volunteering?
Volunteering is a rewarding experience and it can offer a number of benefits to a volunteer, for example, new skills, new friends, having fun, plus the satisfaction knowing that you are making a valuable contribution to a worthwhile cause.
How do I get involved as a volunteer?
There are a number of ways you can get involved. The best way is to look at our current vacancies at http://volunteering.mndassociation.org or contact the volunteering team on 0845 6044 150 or email volunteering@mndassociation.org
