the benefits of volunteering
DESCRIPTION
The benefits of volunteering discussed in a workshop led by Phil Brown, East Midlands Regional Officer for the British Science Association in April 2010 at the University of DerbyTRANSCRIPT
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The benefits of volunteering
Philip BrownEast Midlands Regional OfficerBritish Science Association
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Never Volunteer For Anything!
Pervasive cliché of military life
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How many people volunteer?
73% adults volunteer 1+ times per year
48% adults volunteer 1+ times per month
(Office of UK National Statistics)
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Why do people volunteer?
53% wanted to improve things or help people
41% felt the cause was important or they had time to spare
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Have you ever volunteered?
Will you volunteer to tell us about it?
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A Volunteer’s Story
What did you do? Whom did you work for? Who benefited from your work? What benefits did you receive? What problems did you encounter?
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Typical Benefits
Help others Return something to society Gain experience Make contacts / network Enhance CV Keep occupied Travel
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How to Volunteer
What do you want to do? What is your field of interest? How to find a position? What should I check?
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What do you want to do?
Administration Advice, Information and Support Architecture and Building Work … … Trusteeship and Committee Work Under 16 Volunteering Youth Work
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What is your field of interest?
Animals Art & Culture Children … … Sport & Outdoor Activities Women’s Groups Youth
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How to find a position?
Approach specific organisation School Professional Institution Charity Hospital Campaign Group
www.do-it.org.uk
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What should I check?
Time commitment expected? Is there a Volunteer Agreement? What will be my role? Training & Support Provided? Risk and Liability Insurance? Do I need transport? Expenses…
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Are Expenses Payable?
Travel / Car mileage allowance? Childcare? Food Allowance? Necessary home office expenses?