Frequently asked questions by our volunteers
Can I claim expenses?
We don’t want our volunteers to be out of pocket when they support us. Your time is all that we ask for. We encourage you to claim your volunteering expenses.
What can I claim for?
You can claim for:
- Travel
- Meals
- Postage
- Stationary
- Overnight accommodation
- Phone
- Carers’ costs – with prior arrangement with your volunteer manager.
For more information, read: volunteer expenses, what can I claim for? (Word, 118KB)
How do I claim expenses?
You claim your expenses in one of two ways:
- You can use Topaz to make your expense claim
- You can use a Word document.
Download our expense claims form and a step-by-step guide to claiming expenses:
I’ve forgotten my Topaz password/I don’t have one. What should I do?
If you’ve forgotten your Topaz password or you don’t think you already have one please email [email protected]. Find out more information about Topaz.
Something’s come up and I can’t volunteer today, who do I contact?
Your volunteer manager or the person who has arranged for you to volunteer on this date is the person you should contact.
I can’t reach my volunteer manager, who do I contact?
If you can’t reach your volunteer manager or you don’t have their contact details then please contact another team member if these details have been provided during your induction. You can also contact the volunteering team by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01733 375450.
I’m not happy in my role, who do I contact?
If you’re unhappy about something please let us know as soon as possible. You can find more information by downloading our problem solving procedure document.
You can also always contact the volunteering team if you have a question, concern or would like more information. Please email [email protected] or call 01733 375450.
I need an ID badge for my role or, my ID badge is due to be renewed
If your role requires an ID badge please email [email protected] with your name, your role title and attach your picture. Your picture doesn’t have to be according to passport picture specifications, it simply needs to be a clear image of your face, with no one else in the frame. Please also copy in your volunteer manager so they’re aware you’ve arranged this.
Your ID badge will be valid for three years, if your badge is due to be renewed please follow the process as before and copy your volunteer manager into the email.
I’d like to do more, can I volunteer in another role?
Of course! We know that a lot of our volunteers support us in more than one role, and we really appreciate the time that they offer us. Taking on another role can help broaden your understanding of the work our organisation does and it can help you to develop your skills and knowledge further. To find out more about other local opportunities you can ask your volunteer manager to signpost you to local opportunities. You can also find information on other opportunities on our website or you can contact our volunteering team.