Becoming involved in volunteering opens up the opportunity to learn new skills or practice and develop those skills that you already have.

Through volunteering, not only can you gain ‘hands on’ experience, but you can gain additional training and work towards qualifications. Once you have chosen the organisation which suits your interests and
needs, enquire if they provide training. If they do, what type of training is offered? Are they involved in helping volunteers work towards any recognised qualification currently available to volunteers?

• Induction Training

All organisations should offer some form of induction training when you join their organisation. This training is often very informal and its purpose is to introduce you to the work of the organisation and roles of the individuals who work within it.

• Basic Training

Some organisations require the volunteers to have demonstrated particular knowledge about their target group. An organisation such as this may begin a period of more formal training before the volunteer progresses any further, e.g. victim support would require volunteers to acquire knowledge of police procedures and be able to demonstrate some basic counselling skills, or a museum may require workers to have some knowledge of the exhibits.

• Further Training

Organisations can also provide the opportunity for on-going training, either in the form of informal learning through the day-to-day running of the organisation or through more formal short courses to acquire specialist skills. You can also gain access to externally recognised accredited courses.

• Volunteer Cerificates

Once you have begun volunteering, you can begin working towards a certificate available through vinvolved:

• v50 Certificate

This is recognition of the time you give and your impact through volunteering. You simply keep a log of your hours and the organisation provides you with feedback. You are then awarded a certificate as proof of your commitment, duties and responsibilities. More information on vinvolved awards can be seen here. Contact vinvolved for your own v50 log book and folder.

• Skills in Volunteering with Children and Young People

This certificate offers a formal qualification, two units at Level 1 of the Open College Network (OCN). If you volunteer working with children and/or young people, please contact CVS on 01942 514234.