Volunteering Community of Practice

Hello we are Staffordshire Community Learning. Welcome to our Volunteering Community of Practice

This webpage has been designed to support volunteers across the county of Staffordshire providing a space where information can be accessed about volunteering opportunities, training links, information to support volunteers and share best practice. In addition there is also a space for you to post any questions related to volunteering via the volunteer forum.

What does the term volunteer mean?

A person who willingly helps others without being paid for their time and contributions.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

Anyone can volunteer. It can be very rewarding and is a great way to:

• meet new people.
• gain new or use existing skills.
• get valuable experience.
• make a big difference to your community.

Volunteering also develops many key personal or employability skills for the individual, helping them to progress in work and life. Being part of a community volunteers can increase self-confidence by interacting with others and having a sense of purpose. Volunteering opportunities may also be set in placements that match the individual’s employment aspirations and so provides a great opportunity to build up valuable work-related experience before applying for full or part time paid roles.

What can I expect when becoming a volunteer?

Organisations such as charities really value the work done by volunteers and will ensure your time is fully supported and make it the best possible experience.

Training will be provided for you to carry out the role. This may include specific training to meet regulations or standards such as Health & Safety, First Aid, or manual handling. Other training may include things such as induction to the venue and facilities, attending team meetings or shadowing other staff members.

As a non-paid member of staff the organisation values your time and will do their best to accommodate your availability to attend.