WHO VOLUNTEERS FOR FERNLEA?
People from all walks of life volunteer with us. Students and young people may volunteer to gain work experience. Many of our volunteers are retired people, looking to put their experience and free time to good use. Other volunteers may work part time so volunteer on their day off.
HOW MUCH TIME DO I GIVE?
Our volunteers are usually rostered on for 4 hour shifts, once a week or a fortnight. A regular commitment means we can plan our services with greater confidence. If your unable to commit to the Fernlea Volunteer arrangements, an on-call or seasonal volunteering role may still be an option and we can discuss this further with you.
WHAT SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
Many of our volunteer roles don’t require any experience or specialist skills. Life experience, combined with our own training, are the essentials, along with a positive and caring attitude.
WHAT IS THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS?
Fernlea has a volunteer recruitment process that may include a preliminary phone interview but always a face-to-face interview. This provides us with the opportunity to find out what you are looking for, and to ensure we have the best match for you and those we are committed to supporting. It also allows you to ask any questions you may have.
WILL I NEED TO UNDERGO ANY BACKGROUND CHECKS?
All volunteers are required to undergo a National Police History Check. We also ask that you provide the name and contact details of a referee, preferably from other places you may have volunteered, although they can also be character or work-related referees if this is your first time volunteering.
WHAT TRAINING AND SUPPORT WILL I BE GIVEN?
Once you have completed the application process but before you start, you will need to undertake our induction training module. This covers the essentials that will keep you safe, and help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a volunteer, as well as the expectations we have of our volunteers. There is also a series of other training modules for each of the volunteer roles, which provides more information about the particular role you have chosen. Throughout the year, there will be opportunities to undertake continuing education. All volunteers report to a paid staff member, who provides guidance and support on a day-to-day basis.
