First, a Definition of Volunteering...

"...A Volunteer is a person who, free of charge and willingly, contributes time and skills with the aim of benefiting others."

Gosport Volunteer Centre believes that volunteering should be open to everybody, irrespective of their gender, race, beliefs, disability, mental or physical health, sexuality, age and whether or not they have a criminal record.

We are committed to promoting volunteering to people who are not traditionally seen as being volunteers. This means that the Centre puts effort into promoting volunteering to people who are disadvantaged, disabled: mental, physical or have a learning difficulty (see Supported Volunteering) or who are from groups that are often discriminated against.

Whatever your situation, skills or experience, we will do our best to find you enjoyable and rewarding voluntary work in the local area of Gosport, Fareham and Portsmouth.

Why Should I Volunteer?

Volunteers (image)

Volunteering can help you as an individual in many ways and it also benefits the group or organisation you help out with in your community - so it really is a 'win-win' situation.

Anyone can volunteer as long as they have a little time to spare and are enthusiastic!

By volunteering you can... improve your skills, build self-confidence, make new friends, gain a sense of achievement and make a positive difference to your community and to the lives of others. You may be hoping to get back to work in the future or you may just want to meet new people!

volunteer centre

A volunteer is someone who enables an organisation or group to do something they would not otherwise be able to, so remember that the time and effort you put in does make a difference!

Here are just some examples of the things you can do as a volunteer:

  • Advice Work
  • Befriending
  • Counselling
  • Computer & IT Work
  • Driving people in a mini-bus or your own car
  • Fundraising
  • Gardening & Conservation Work
  • Practical Skills & DIY Work
  • Management Work
  • Committee Member or Trustee Work
  • School Governor
  • Tutoring
  • Supporting Families in need
  • Charity Shops - Retail / Stockroom Assistants
  • Work with Children or Young People
  • and much, much more...

Volunteering gives someone the opportunity to make a contribution to their community and get something back in return.

You can help in a variety of ways depending on your own skills, experience and personal commitments.

I am currently working, can I still volunteer?

You can volunteer even if you already working depending on the amount of time you can spare and possibly the distance you are prepared to travel.

CRB Checks

If you accept a placement working where you will come in contact with children or vulnerable adults, you may have to undergo a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) disclosure.

What is the First Step?

volunteeringIf you feel that volunteering is right for you at this time and you feel ready to take that first step, you should get in touch with Sue Eden-Browne, Volunteer Centre Co-ordinator on 02392 588347 or e-mail: gosportvb@gva.org.uk to arrange an informal chat about volunteering.

Please note that one-to-one appointments should be made a short time in advance, so that the Volunteer Centre Co-ordinator can give you the best possible service.

The Volunteer Centre is manned Monday to Friday for 27 hours per week. Any Answerphone messages will be dealt with as soon as possible and calls returned.

Alternatively, you can download a Volunteer Application Form (PDF Format) here: Volunteer Application Form 180.4 KB (pdf) - simply print this out and fill in the form and send it back to us by post.

Volunteering and Benefits Advice

A lot of volunteers ask if they can volunteer whilst claiming benefits. The simple answer to this is Yes, but you will have to follow some guidelines and rules depending on the benefit you are getting - for more information on this, please download: Guide to Volunteering & Benefits here. 84.8 KB (pdf)

What is the Next Step?

Once you have found a vacancy or organisation that interests you, we can refer you to them or arrange for you to visit them and meet the people involved. Or you can take away the details and contact them yourself. In the unlikely event that there are no vacancies that need your particular skills or experience, we can work with some groups to tailor a role for you.

What happens when I have found a voluntary placement?

You might be asked to complete an application form or attend an informal chat or interview. In some cases, you might be asked to provide the names of two referees who have known you for at least 2 years.

You should then be given guidance and support by your chosen organisation. Many organisations offer specific training to help you in your role. If you have any concerns, you can always contact the Volunteer Centre for help and advice.

Still not Sure?Still not Sure? (image}

No problem. Leave it or come back when you are ready. - Remember, you're the one making the choice!