Thousands of people volunteer across Newcastle upon Tyne every year, in their neighbourhoods or through a charity, organisation or community group.
We are passionate about the mutual benefits of volunteering for both individuals and the local community. We believe that volunteering offers the opportunity to make a real difference to people in your local community, but it can also be a rewarding and beneficial experience for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why volunteer?
There are so many brilliant reasons to get involved!
You gain the satisfaction of making a difference to people’s lives, contribute to your local community, learn new skills, meet new people, increase your confidence and have fun!
Did you know that studies have shown that people who volunteer tend to have better health and wellbeing?
What can I get involved in?
To look for current volunteering opportunities in Newcastle upon Tyne, please search our database.
Please note that to apply for a role online you first need to register your details.
Register here.
Registrations are confidential. Your details will not be shared with any third party.
If you don’t like applying via websites then contact us.
Can I talk to someone about volunteering?
Yes!
If you’re not sure what you’d like to do, or you want to talk about your concerns around volunteering, we can
- answer your questions in a confidential chat, either in person,
- via phone
- or via online chat, please contact us to arrange.
See our contact page.
Can I get regular updates about volunteering?
Yes!
Just sign up for our monthly newsletter by sharing your details here.
The newsletter list is private and never shared.
Don’t forget, you can also check out our most recent volunteer newsletters. on our news section
News | Volunteer Centre Newcastle
Can volunteering help me to get a job?
Volunteering does not guarantee you a job, but it can improve your employability skills by enhancing your CV.
73% of employers would employ a candidate with volunteering experience over a candidate who had not done any volunteering.
Through volunteering you can try out different roles and gain skills and experience.
You can also get support around employment at our partner service Skills Hub (skillshubnewcastle.co.uk)
Can I do more than one volunteer role?
Yes!
Just sign up for the Volunteer Passport Scheme, one recruitment process, one training, access to a choice of multiple volunteer roles
Video: New Year New You – Newcastle Volunteer Passport Scheme
complete the application form https://bit.ly/3V6xgWP – it only takes a few minutes and we will respond within 3 working days.
How much time will it take up?
You can offer as much or as little of your time as you would like to volunteering, although some organisations may require a specific time commitment.
Volunteering is a negotiation – so ask!
Will my expenses be covered?
Most organisations will cover your expenses such as travel costs to where you are volunteering.
However, not all will do so.
It is worth checking with the Volunteer Centre, if it is not stated on the volunteer role description.
Will any of my benefits be affected?
Volunteering should not affect your benefits.
For the latest information on volunteering whilst claiming welfare benefits please see the government website: https://www.gov.uk/volunteering
How long does it take to get started?
Once you have registered with Volunteer Centre Newcastle, we will contact you within 10 working days to give you the contact details relevant to the roles you have applied for.
Once you have the contact details you then approach the named coordinator
After the initial contact with the organisation, they will explain their recruitment process which may take a few weeks before you can get started.
I live outside Newcastle - can I still apply?
Where you volunteer is up to you!
Some organisations have a maximum amount that they are willing to pay for expenses. We can help you to find out the specific expenses policy for the organisation that you wish to apply to.
So, whether you are able to apply for roles outside your local area will depend on your ability and willingness to travel to your place of volunteering.
Although we are based in Newcastle, we advertise some roles from across the wider north-east region too.