Frequently Asked Questions

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Below we have outlined some of the answers to the most commonly asked questions we get about volunteering within the Dame Hannahs Charity Shops. If you have any further questions about volunteering then please contact us on teh details below or call into one of our stores to discuss it in person.

Who volunteers with Dame Hannahs Charity Shops?
We welcome anyone with an interest in the work of Dame Hannahs or if you know nothing about us as yet but want to give back to your local disability charity we know, that everyone has something to offer.
Whether you are student looking to gain skills and experience, work full time but would like to explore new career paths, or you have some free time that you would like to put to good use, please contact us and we will try to find the right role for you.

How do I become a volunteer?
You can either contact us directly for an application pack and someone will get in touch with you or pick one up in any of our Charity Shops.

Will I have to fill in an application form and have an interview?
Yes, but remember the application form and interview is a two-way process. The interview is relaxed and enables us to find out more about you, to ensure that you are suitable for the role, but also enables you to ensure that the volunteering opportunity meets your needs and interests.

What roles are available?
We have a variety of roles and these are a few examples of where our volunteers work:
• Shop Assistants
• Cashiers
• Warehouse Assistants
• Donation receiving and processing
• Delivery & Collection Team
• Opportunities to attend events with the fundraising team

I have got specific skills and experience; can you use them?
Yes, we can. We will always utilise someone’s specific skills and previous experience throughout all of our shops. These skills and experiences could match the roles we already have available or they could help us to develop the existing roles or expand our offering further.

What will I get out of volunteering for the trust?
All our volunteers get something slightly different from the experience. Some of the most common benefits reported are:
• Wanting to make a difference
• Getting invaluable training and work experience
• Developing new skills
• Putting existing skills to good use
• Getting involved with the local community
• Making new friends and expanding social circle

How much time would I have to give?
This really depends on the role but we welcome anyone regardless of how much or how little time they have to give. Ideally we would like you to complete either a morning or afternoon shift within store so we can have a full rota for each shift. However, all that we ask is that you are able to commit and fulfil the time which you offer. You may also bring something which would extend our existing offering.

Can I claim expenses?
You can claim reasonable out of pocket expenses which are related to your volunteering which usually is your travel costs as pretty much anything you need for your voluntary role is provided.

When can I start?
First you need to fully complete your application form and return it. We will then contact you to talk through options and arrange an interview or shadowed trial shift. We will need to take up two references before you can start and in some cases, depending on the role, we will do need to undertake a Criminal Record check. We try to start our volunteers as soon as possible.

What support and training will be given?
All our volunteers receive an induction and role specific training so you fully understand your role and the role of Dame Hannahs. On-going training will be arranged depending on the needs of the role. You will receive the support of your line manager as well as opportunities to meet up with other volunteers who will guide you through what they also do when volunteering. All our staff are happy to help and support you as required.

Our fundraising team can be contacted on 01752 898135 or SupportUs@discoverhannahs.org

Our Volunteering policy can be found by clicking here