Staff Volunteering FAQs
Staff Volunteering Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I’m unsure about what type of volunteering I would like to do – how can I find out more?
A: All of our volunteering opportunities are listed on our volunteer platform. Categories are available (group volunteering, remote volunteering etc.) to make your search easier.
Q: I already volunteer in my own time – should I still register?
A: Yes, by registering you may be able to use some staff volunteering time to make your volunteering more flexible.
Q: Can I register my charity / organisation?
A: Yes, registering your charity also opens up more opportunities for them. A charity can register as a volunteer provider on our platform and advertise their opportunities to our staff members or they can contact us directly on [email protected] and we can arrange a meeting to see how we can assist them.
Q: Can I only volunteer in activities listed on the volunteer platform?
A: No, we encourage all volunteering where there is a community benefit. We ask that your organisation is registered on our volunteer platform. Contact us on [email protected] to arrange this. Please provide us with the charity name, address, telephone number, website and contact details (if applicable).
Q: Is everyone entitled to 5 days volunteering?
A: We are keen for all staff to be involved however the 5 days are not an entitlement; they are merely a maximum available assuming the Line Manager has approved the time and operational requirements. The 5 days are pro-rata for part time staff.
Q: Can anyone get involved in a Team Challenge?
A: Our monthly team challenge calendar is open to all DU staff and students. Staff members are encouraged to arrange their own team challenge, directly with a charity, for either their department/team or with colleagues from across the university. All team challenge opportunities are advertised on our volunteer platform, with details of who to contact.
Q. Can I volunteer anywhere with my Staff Volunteer leave?
A: To utilise your volunteer leave, the opportunity must be of benefit to the wider community, it must not be part of your paid role within the University, you must not be receiving pay or reward from the organisation/ charity and you must have your line managers approval to have the time off (via Oracle).