Volunteering FAQs

We ask that volunteers carry out at least one shift per week for a minimum of 2 hours. Average volunteer shifts last between 2-4 hours. Volunteers can give no more than 10 hours of their time per week. We ask for a minimum commitment of 6 months.

Some departments accommodate volunteers during the evenings and at the weekends. Please check the time slots available for the role you are interested in by visiting our Find a volunteer role page.

No, the volunteer process can take a number of months to complete, as it includes an interview, collection of references, a DBS check, a health check, and mandatory training. All mandatory training is undertaken online.

Yes, you can claim back your travel expenses for public transport and mileage. We will issue you with claim forms and expenses are paid monthly by bank transfer payment.

There is detailed information on parking on our Car parking page.

Parking is free for all Blue Badge holders. Pease take your ticket and Blue Badge for validation to the Security Office, Oak Road foyer - open 24 hours, Monday to Sunday. Please note that the parking timer disc should remain in your vehicle. 

Please be aware of the local parking restrictions by checking signage and road markings. The roads surrounding The Christie are subject to the following restrictions:

• Resident parking will be free at all times
• Anyone can park free before 8am, after 6pm and at weekends
• At other times you will need a permit to park for more than three hours
• Narrow streets will have 'residents parking only beyond this point' signs. Only permit holders can park on those streets.

As well as full training prior to commencement of your role, you will have a named line manager in your department and a full induction on your first day. We also hold regular coffee mornings so you can meet fellow volunteers, and we send out a volunteer newsletter. You will have an annual review with your manager to check that everything is going well.

A criminal record does not necessarily prevent you from volunteering at The Christie. Our decision will depend on what is on your criminal record, and the role you are applying for. We will assess each application on a case by case basis.

Yes, the benefits regulations state that you can still volunteer. For more information on different types of benefits and volunteering, please visit the NCVO website.

The minimum age for all volunteers is 16 – there is no upwards age limit, but you should be fit and well enough to complete the tasks outlined in your role description.

We require 2 references ideally from employers but if this is not possible it can be from other volunteer organisations, or someone that has known you well for at least three years such as a family doctor or a teacher/tutor. We do not accept references from family members or friends. Please do not list a friend or family member as a referee, as this will only delay your application process.

Your application form allows us to keep a record of your details and to help us see if you are suitable for the role you have applied for. All volunteers must have a DBS check as you will be working closely with our patients and their safety is our main concern.

Our volunteers’ wellbeing is important so the health check helps us to confirm you are fit and well enough to take on the role you have applied for and to see if you require any assistance or adjustments to help you with your tasks.

No, our volunteers do not undertake any clinical work. For shadowing or clinical work experience enquiries please contact Medical.Education@christie.nhs.uk