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Video: Drive into Action
Here are some frequently asked questions about becoming a volunteer.
I don’t drive but I would like to volunteer.
There are many opportunities for volunteers who don’t drive so please don’t be put off. A volunteer can help with many of the day-to-day tasks such as visiting clients for a chat or assisting around the home, form filling or becoming a duty officer, taking calls from clients and liaising with other volunteers.
Do I have to make a regular commitment?
No, you don’t. You can help as often and regularly or as little and infrequently as you wish. The duty officer will call you with details of a job and if you can do it, great! If not, then the duty officer will simply contact another volunteer.
Do I need to undergo any other checks?
You’ll need a DBS check – this is free and transferable so you’ll be able to use it if you decide to volunteer with any other vulnerable adults.
How do I get started?
Once you’ve contacted us, we will make an appointment to meet with you to explain how the scheme works.
Who are our clients?
We aim to help anyone who cannot access transport, needs help with shopping, assistance with clerical matters or simply would like a home visit and maybe a cuppa tea and a chat.
Can I claim expenses?
Yes – mileage and parking will be reimbursed.
Will it affect my insurance?
We will give you information to provide to your insurance company so that driving as a volunteer should not affect your premiums.
Where do we go?
Clients ask for transport to the GP’s, hospitals, shops etc. Sometimes we are asked to go further afield, but if you want to stay local all you have to do is say.
Do I stay with my client?
If you are transporting a client, they sometimes would like you to stay with them. Other times you just take them to their destination, drop them off and pick them up.
Do I go into a client’s house?
When we collect a client we usually go to their front door, check they have their key and then walk them down to the car. We help them in (we do not lift) and make sure they have their seat belt on. On occasion a client may invite a volunteer to stay for a cup of tea – that is up to you if you have time.
Please contact us at: staineshelpinghands@gmail.com or telephone 07398 338 345 We look forward to hearing from you