Most organisations will look to do some level of screening depending on the volunteering opportunity you are looking to get involved with. There are some once-off informal roles where you can get started straight away, but other roles take longer.

• Some organisations may have a simple application form.
• Some may have a formal or informal interview/meeting.
• Others check references and vet their volunteers.

In our view, the application process is an important step for both the volunteer and the organisation – it gives each of you a chance to learn more about each other and figure out if a volunteer role is going to be the right fit for you both. Of course, if for any reason you do not end up volunteering with an organisation, our Volunteer Engagement Team are on hand to support you to search for other suitable volunteering opportunities.