COMMUNITY & VOLUNTARY SERVICES CHESHIRE EAST
Ashton House
1a Gatefield Street
Crewe
Cheshire
CW1 2JP
Tel/Fax 01270 211545
Welcome to the Volunteer Centre Crewe & Nantwich.
Based in Crewe, we aim to help the people of Crewe & Nantwich become involved in volunteer activities. From the age of 14 to 80 plus, we would like to hear from you.
How can I get involved?
You have a choice between visiting www.do-it.org.uk, keying in your postcode and viewing over 140 volunteer opportunities that we upload from our office (you can also apply online) OR ringing 01270 211545 to make an appointment to talk to our Volunteer Officer and we will deal with your application.
I’m not sure what I would do though?
It’s a really good idea to think about what YOU have to offer and who YOU would like to support. Could it be older people, children, animals or the environment, to name a few? You could also be more specific – do you enjoy helping people, thrive in retail and sales, have catering skills, been a former carer or have driving experience?
Give me some examples of volunteer roles?
· Driving a local resident to a doctors appointment or luncheon club
· Advising at your local Citizen’s Advice Bureaux
· Preparing and serving food at a community café or luncheon club
· Supporting young people with disabilities to enjoy their leisure time
· Fundraising for a local organisation
· Support your local hospital as a Ward Helper
· Being part of a team that carries out conservation and preservation in the Cheshire area
· Encouraging young people to use more outside, green space
These really are just a ‘flavour’ of the varied and interesting roles that we have to offer.
How many hours do I have to do?
There is no upper or lower limit. All we ask is that you are honest with the organisation you volunteer with from the start. Be realistic – how many hours can you offer without affecting other commitments in your life?
Being reliable and turning up regular are really important.
You might need a reference for paid work or for higher education and any experience can be added to your CV.
Can I claim expenses?
Most organisations are very reasonable and will pay out of pocket expenses. Typically expenses are for petrol (especially if you are a volunteer driver) or for public transport to enable you to carry out your role (eg, visiting people at home).
We encourage organisations, who find volunteers through us, to treat their volunteers in a fair and professional manner.
I’m not being paid, why should I volunteer?
· To gain valuable experience to compliment qualifications
· To meet new people and friends
· Improve confidence and self esteem
· Learn new skills
· A reason to get up or maintain a routine!
When is the Volunteer Centre open?
Monday to Thursday between 10am and 4pm. Appointments are available on Fridays but only by prior arrangement.
We do encourage any visitors to ring the Volunteer Centre Manager
01270 211545 to make an appointment.
The do-it website is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Thank you for taking the time to consider being a volunteer in Crewe & Nantwich.
Everyone has something to offer – even if YOU think YOU don’t!
For more information contact Sam Wilkinson on 01270 211545.