We have put together a list of common questions regarding volunteering for St Raphael’s Hospice.
If you have any other queries, you can give us a call on: 020 8099 7777 or get in touch by filling out this form.
Why do our Volunteers choose St Raphael’s?
People volunteer with St Raphael’s for many different reasons. Some of our volunteers tell us they joined us to meet new people; others wanted to gain skills or experience. Many of our volunteers want to support their local communities, or they have a personal connection to St Raphael’s and want to give something back. Whatever your reason we would love for you to join us!
What skills and experience do I need?
For most of our volunteer roles you don’t need any specific skills or experience, just enthusiasm to get involved and a willingness to support people living with a life limiting illness. If specific skills, experience or qualifications are needed (e.g. volunteer Complementary Therapy or Driver roles) we will provide details on the role description.
How old do I need to be?
Generally, the minimum age for volunteering is 16. Other roles may not be suitable for people under 18 depending on the activities involved. There’s no maximum age limit for volunteering at St Raphael’s.
How much time do I need to give?
Some roles include regular volunteering (e.g. Shops, Hospice reception) while others can be one-off for a specific period of time. We have a range of opportunities across the organisation – there’s something for everyone!
Will I get training?
Yes! All roles require an element of training, including an induction to get you settled into your role. The amount of training you’ll need depends on the role, for example if you’ll be volunteering directly with patients and families in our hospice or in the community, the training can take a bit longer to complete.
Will I get expenses reimbursed?
We believe you should never be out of pocket if you volunteer with us, so we’ll pay for all of your reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including travel.
Will you do a Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS)?
It depends on the role. We are required to carry out criminal records checks for some roles. If we need to carry out a DBS check, we’ll provide you with full information and guidance.
I’d like to support patients in a hospice or at home, but I have recently been bereaved. Can I still volunteer?
Everyone is different and the reality of being in an environment supporting individuals living with a terminal illness, whether in someone’s home or the hospice after you’ve been bereaved may be different to what you imagine. This is something to consider before you apply and you can discuss this with the Volunteer Services Team. There are a range of roles available at St Raphael’s and you might want to think about volunteering in a different environment initially, for example volunteering in a fundraising group or one of our charity shops.
Will you provide me with a reference?
Once you have volunteered with us for a minimum of 30 hours we will be happy to provide you with a character reference.
Will I need references?
All roles will require a minimum of one reference. We will ask you to provide details of your referees. They must be at least 18 years old and should have known you for at least six months. Each referee should be willing to provide us with a reference and know that we will be contacting them.
I have a disability; can I volunteer for St Raphael's?
We would like to hear from anyone interested in volunteering with St Raphael’s, including anyone living with a disability.
I am an asylum seeker. Can I volunteer?
Yes, if you are applying for asylum you can volunteer at St Raphael’s.
I’m a refugee. Can I volunteer?
Yes, everyone who has a refugee status can volunteer at St Raphael’s