It is completely up to you, depending on how much time you have to offer. Anything is appreciated. It also depends on your plans for the future and what you want to get out of volunteering. We can offer advice and liaise with benefits agencies if you are worried this will affect you.

What benefit is it to me, what do I get out of it?

Various studies have shown that volunteering can improve your health, build confidence and be fun. You could also boost your career options (over three quarters of employers would employ a candidate with volunteer experience over one without).

Do I get expenses?

You will receive all reasonable travel expenses. Other support will be available, such as training to help you settle into your new role and advance your own career.

What other support would I receive?

We can provide training in various areas from IT to Health and Safety or team working, but again it’s up to the individual. We can arrange or find training in anything that improves your employability and/or life skills in general.

How do we work? What can we do? What can’t we do?

It may be an idea to have a small network of community champions working in one area so you can support and advise each other. UP & Working will arrange regular community champion ‘get together’ so we can all discuss any issues, positive stories and experiences.