Q1: What is Volunteering MMU?
A1: Volunteering MMU is a service based within MMU that is designed to develop volunteering opportunities for all students and staff. We contact local agencies and organisations in the not for profit sector to find out what volunteers they need, we then try to match these opportunities with people interested in volunteering.
Q2: What is a volunteer?
A2: Within our service a volunteer is a student or staff member at MMU who gives their own time to a not for profit organisation / group, with no financial reward save reasonable expenses.
Q3: What is a not for profit organisation / group?
A3: This can be any group of people, charity, agency or organisation that is not a private business and is therefore not trying to make a profit. Normally the organisation is linked to a cause or concern.
Q4: Will I receive any payment for volunteering?
A4: Volunteers should not receive financial rewards for their time. However, it is acceptable and important that a volunteer’s contribution is recognised. Most organisations will look to cover your reasonable out of pocket expenses, i.e. travel, food, materials, equipment etc... Some even offer to pay towards the cost of training.
Q5: Will I be reimbursed for travel expenses?
A5: If you are registered with coMMUni and the organisation is unable to pay you reasonable travel expenses we will be able provided it is directly connected with your volunteering, you contact us in advance so we are aware of what you are doing and you complete all necessary claims forms correctly / you keep your bus or train tickets!
Q6: Do I receive any training?
A6: Many organisations link training to the volunteering opportunities as it may be needed to fulfil the role or it can be an incentive to get more volunteers, especially if it is accredited. coMMUni has created an online learning package which all MMU students and staff can access via our website. It will help you prepare to volunteer and reflect on the skills and experience you gain through volunteering, especially in relation to job hunting. From Jan 2008 we wil be offering taught session from Volunteer Inductions, Community Project Planing, Child Protection etc. Keep your eye on the TRAINING tab down the side for updates!
Q7: Will I get a reference?
A7: The organisation you are volunteering for may be able to offer you a reference but you must talk to them directly about this and provide them with as much notice as possible. coMMUni staff do not normally agree to be a referee as we are not the people working alongside you.
Q8: Do I need to have a police check / Criminal Records Disclosure?
A8: Only if you intend to volunteer in an organisation that works with children / young people or vulnerable adults. The organisation you are volunteering for should have a procedure to enable this to happen and explain the reasons for it.For more information go to:www.crb.gov.uk
Q9: Do I need to pay for my police check/ Crinminal Records Disclosure?
A9: No. The organisation should cover the cost (if there is any).For more info go to www.crb.gov.uk
Q10: Can you help me find a placement directly related to my course?
A11: You can use the volunteering opportunities we have registered as part of your course if it is relevant to you. However, most people are looking for an opportunity outside of the course requirements.
Q11: Will I have regular hours as a volunteer?
A12: Often you will because you must decide what time you can give and when in discussion with the organisation you are volunteering for. However, it does depend upon the type of volunteering you undertake.
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