How often will I be expected to volunteer?

Hospice-based volunteers are asked to fit into a structured rota. Most sessions are between 2 and 4 hours long dependent on which department you are volunteering in. For daycare, you are expected to volunteer for a full day (approx 9.30am-3.30pm) Some volunteers help on a weekly basis, others fortnightly, dependent again on their availability and on our rota.

I want to help out only during my school holidays, is this possible?

Due to the time it takes to register as a volunteer (we have to obtain 2 references and send for a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau check) which can take up to 8 weeks to process). We only recruit volunteers who are able to give us a long-term commitment; usually a minimum of 6 months.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

Hospice-based and shop volunteers must be aged 16 and over.

How long will it take for me to start volunteering once I send in my application form?

On receipt of your application from, we send for your 2 references, when these are returned you will be invited in for an informal interview. How fast this happens is dependent on how quickly your references are received. The next step is for us to send for a CRB (Criminal Record Bureau Check) and this can take up to 8 weeks to be processed. Whilst you may undertake your training, you are not able to volunteer until your CRB clearance has been received.

What happens if I have a conviction on my CRB (Criminal Records Bureau check)?

Voluntary duties at the Hospice are not covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act, which means that criminal convicted offences, apart from minor motoring offences, have to be disclosed. The existence of a criminal record does not automatically preclude applicants from voluntary work. These checks do enable us to make safer recruitment decisions to the benefit of our patients.

Can I claim expenses for my volunteering?

We do not expect our volunteers to be ‘out of pocket’ as a result of their volunteering. Travel expenses are covered, as are lunch expenses if volunteering for over 4 hours.

Am I insured for my volunteering through St Ann’s Hospice?

Volunteers are covered by the Employers Liability Insurance Policy in exactly the same way as members of paid staff provided that the tasks undertaken are under the supervision and control of the Hospice.