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Q: What has changed with volunteering due to COVID-19?

A: Currently, we are supporting volunteers to make telephone calls once a week to their VIP. Once you get to know your VIP we can support you to engage in physically-distanced outdoor visits or walks with your VIP. The longer-term aim is for you to be able to have indoor visits again with your VIP as soon as we can support you to do so in line with government advice.

We are continuing to offer training and support with other volunteers remotely via telephone call and Zoom sessions.

Q: How do I start volunteering?

A: Firstly, have a think about what you can offer: how much time can you realistically give up each week? Would you like to visit on a one-to-one basis, or take someone out and about?

Q: How old do I have to be?

A: We’re looking for anyone between 17 and, well . . . the sky’s the limit!

Q: What time commitment is required?

A: The key aim of Vintage Vibes is to offer long-lasting friendships and create sustainable networks for people who are isolated and/or lonely. So we’re asking our volunteers to commit to a minimum of six months, and ask that they be able to take part at least once a week for an hour or two during the day time.

Q: I work full time, can I volunteer?

A: Currently we are only accepting volunteers who are available during the daytime. If you’re not available during the day – volunteering is not the only way to get involved with Vintage Vibes! We need people to help spread the word, help out at weekend events and also get involved with fundraising with us. Please check out our fundraising page to find out more.

Q: How do you decide who I’ll be spending time with?

A: We’ll ask you about your interests and general likes, and how you think you might be able to help. Do you have a dog, for example, who could come with you on visits? Or perhaps you’re sporty and could help someone keep active, or reminisce about sport with them. Whatever you have to offer, we want to help match you with someone with shared interests and experiences.

Q: Do I need a PVG?

A: As you are volunteering with protected adults, Vintage Vibes will apply for you to join the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme. This is a lifelong membership and is free to join if you are a volunteer through us. If you are an existing member of the PVG scheme, we just have to do an update.

Q: How long does the process take?

A: Our friendships are about finding the best match for you, and sometimes, if we’re honest, that can take a little time (but it’s worth it!). Whilst we are waiting for your references and PVG to come back, we’ll make sure you’re invited to our training sessions and you are more than welcome to come along to the volunteer social events that we hold every 2 months so you can get to know other wonderful volunteers.

Q: Do you offer training and ongoing support?

A: Absolutely! Volunteers are the cornerstone of Vintage Vibes, so we’re committed to ensuring you’re valued and supported. We hold 2 volunteer induction sessions with other volunteers and our service co-ordinators.

Q: Are expenses covered?

A: Yes! As a volunteer we cover reasonable travel expenses to and from your volunteering, as well as face masks, sanitiser and wipes for physically-distanced outdoor visits during COVID-19 restrictions. We also cover teas/coffees and ticket costs whilst volunteering.

Get in touch: hello@vintagevibes.org.uk