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The benefits of volunteering

Philip BrownEast Midlands Regional OfficerBritish Science Association

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Never Volunteer For Anything!

Pervasive cliché of military life

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How many people volunteer?

73% adults volunteer 1+ times per year

48% adults volunteer 1+ times per month

(Office of UK National Statistics)

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Why do people volunteer?

53% wanted to improve things or help people

41% felt the cause was important or they had time to spare

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Have you ever volunteered?

Will you volunteer to tell us about it?

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A Volunteer’s Story

What did you do? Whom did you work for? Who benefited from your work? What benefits did you receive? What problems did you encounter?

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Typical Benefits

Help others Return something to society Gain experience Make contacts / network Enhance CV Keep occupied Travel

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How to Volunteer

What do you want to do? What is your field of interest? How to find a position? What should I check?

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What do you want to do?

Administration Advice, Information and Support Architecture and Building Work … … Trusteeship and Committee Work Under 16 Volunteering Youth Work

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What is your field of interest?

Animals Art & Culture Children … … Sport & Outdoor Activities Women’s Groups Youth

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How to find a position?

Approach specific organisation School Professional Institution Charity Hospital Campaign Group

www.do-it.org.uk

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What should I check?

Time commitment expected? Is there a Volunteer Agreement? What will be my role? Training & Support Provided? Risk and Liability Insurance? Do I need transport? Expenses…

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Are Expenses Payable?

Travel / Car mileage allowance? Childcare? Food Allowance? Necessary home office expenses?