Volunteering FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about volunteering with Lead Scotland.

How do I apply to volunteer?

Complete our volunteer enquiry form. A member of the Lead Scotland team will contact you to discuss your interests, availability and the opportunities currently available.

Complete the volunteer enquiry form

If you need help completing the form or require it in another format, please email enquiries@lead.org.uk or telephone 0131 228 9441.

What volunteering roles are available?

Opportunities vary according to the services running in each area. Roles may include providing individual learning or befriending support, helping with groups, supporting digital skills or helping us develop accessible resources.

Not every type of opportunity is available in every area. Visit our Volunteer with Lead Scotland page for more information.

How much time will I need to give?

This depends on the role and your availability. Some roles involve a regular weekly or fortnightly commitment, while others may be more flexible. We will discuss the expected commitment with you before you begin.

Do I need previous experience?

You do not usually need previous volunteering, teaching or support experience. We are interested in people who are friendly, reliable, patient and committed to treating others with dignity and respect.

If a role requires particular knowledge or experience, we will explain this when discussing the opportunity with you.

Will I receive training and support?

Yes. Volunteers receive an induction, relevant training and ongoing support from a named member of staff. We will explain the boundaries of your role and make sure you know who to contact if you need advice or support.

Will I need a PVG check?

Some volunteer opportunities are regulated roles and require membership of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme. If this applies to your role, Lead Scotland will explain the process and arrange the appropriate application before you begin.

You can find more information on the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme website.

Will my expenses be paid?

We reimburse reasonable volunteer expenses that have been agreed in advance, in line with our volunteer expenses policy. Your named member of staff will explain what can be claimed and how to submit a claim.

Please agree any expenses with us before incurring them.

Can I volunteer while receiving benefits?

You can volunteer while receiving benefits as long as you continue to meet the conditions of your benefit. You should tell the office that pays your benefits about your planned volunteering before you begin.

The rules depend on the benefit you receive and your individual circumstances. Read the current government guidance on volunteering and claiming benefits or contact your benefits office for advice.

Can you make adjustments to help me volunteer?

We want our volunteering opportunities to be accessible and inclusive. Please tell us about any support or adjustments you may need. We will discuss these with you and consider how we can support you in the role.

Can I use my existing skills?

Yes. We will try to find a role that reflects your interests, experience and skills. This could include communication, mentoring, teaching, digital skills, languages, music or other areas of knowledge.

We will also explain the boundaries of the role and what is expected from you.

Can you provide a reference?

We may be able to provide a reference once we have got to know you and you have volunteered regularly with us for at least six months. A reference will normally confirm the dates you volunteered, your role and the activities you undertook.

Can I leave my volunteer role?

Yes. We understand that people’s circumstances change. Please tell your named member of staff as soon as possible so that we can support you and, where relevant, make arrangements for anyone you have been supporting.

We may invite you to complete an exit survey. Your feedback will help us improve future volunteering opportunities.

Do you have another question?

Please email enquiries@lead.org.uk or telephone 0131 228 9441. We will be happy to help.