What to expect as a volunteer
Thank you for thinking about volunteering with us! Here are a few things to know before you apply.
Volunteer responsibilities
As a volunteer, you’ll be asked to:
- take part in orientation, training and other learning
- work within your volunteer role
- serve as an ambassador for the volunteer program
- let us know if you have any questions or concerns
- treat your volunteer role as a professional commitment
Time commitment
Our volunteer co-ordinators will help you find a role that fits your schedule. Some programs ask you to commit for at least six months, two or three hours per week. Others are more flexible.
Age requirements
Some of our sites accept volunteers as young as 13. Others need volunteers to be 16 or older. Contact the site where you would like to volunteer for more information.
Volunteer screening and onboarding
After you apply, you’ll need to complete a few steps.
Interview
Our volunteer services team will look at your application and contact you to set up an interview. We’ll talk about your skills, interests and availability.
From there, we will find a volunteer role that works for both of us. We may also ask you for references.
Police check
You will need to do a police information check with a vulnerable sector search before you start volunteering. Legislation requires this step, but we will cover the cost.
You can ask for the check at your local police station. If you have lived in your community for a short time, the local police may ask you to do the check in your last community.
Health screening
You will need to have a baseline health screening if you are volunteering in a patient or resident care area. This helps protect our vulnerable patients and residents by reducing the spread of illnesses.
Orientation
Once you finish your interview, police check and basic health screening, we will give you a tour of the site where you’re volunteering. We may also give you an orientation to the department or area you’re volunteering in.