F.A.Q.

Frequently Asked Questions From Volunteers

Q: How do I join an SVC volunteering project?
A: Ccome along to our volunteering fayre on Monday 28th September from 5.30pm in the Great Hall for information on all our projects and how to sign up. If you have missed the fayre the easiest way to join is to call into the SVC office in the SU  and speak to a member of staff who can talk you through the process. All volunteers must complete an application form and provide SVC with 2 referees.

Q: Do I have to commit for the whole academic year?
A: Yes. For most projects you will be working with the vulnerable and disadvantaged, so a regular commitment is important. If you are unsure about commitment there are a number of ‘one-off’ projects throughout the year which you can join.

Q: Do I have to attend the training for my chosen project?
A: Yes. The training ensures that you are fully prepared to start a project, its essential that you attend.

Q: Can I volunteer with SVC if I’m not a student or staff member at Cardiff University?
A: We are only able to offer spaces to current students, staff members and recent graduates of Cardiff University. Non students/staff should contact Cardiff Voluntary Community Service on 029 20227625.

Q: Can I volunteer on more than one project?
A: It depends on which projects you would like to volunteer on. Please speak to a member of staff for details.

Q: What is a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check?
A: The CRB carry out police and identity checks for all volunteers working in any capacity with children or vulnerable adults

Q: Do I need a CRB check for every project?
A: You will need a CRB check for all our projects except for CASH and WATCH.

Q: Can International Students volunteer?
A: Yes. In most cases you will need the equivalent of a CRB check from your home country (sometimes called a certificate of good conduct) before you can start. It is your responsibility to obtain this.

Q: Do I get official accreditation for my volunteering?
A: Yes. There are a number of ways in which you can gain official recognition for your volunteering work. All executive committee members and project co-ordinators who complete 200 hours of volunteering will receive a Millennium Volunteers Award of Excellence signed by the First Minister.

The University also certifies our voluntary achievements. There are several levels of certification:
Level 1 Certification of Professional Development: Volunteer
Level 2 Certification of Professional Development: Project Co-ordinator
Level 3 Certification of Professional Development: Executive Management.

Q: Can I volunteer with SVC over the summer?
A: No. Unfortunately we do not run any projects over the summer but Cardiff Voluntary Community Service do and they will be able to help. You can contact them on 029 2022 7625.

Frequently Asked Questions From Outside Organisations

Q: Can SVC advertise a volunteering opportunity for us?

A: In most cases yes, but you need to send us the following information before we can consider it:

• Volunteer role description
• Volunteering policy
• Child protection policy (if applicable)
• Protection of vulnerable adults policy (if applicable)

Organisations looking for volunteers to fulfil fundraising or general office administration roles will not normally be considered.

Q: Can we start up a project with SVC?
A: All projects must fit in with the SVC constitution. Organisations must also demonstrate that there is a need within the community. Finally, our executive committee must conclude that the project would benefit our student volunteers. If you feel that your project would satisfy these criteria, please contact us to discuss it further.