Volunteering at NML
You could be involved at any level of the organisations work in many different ways, from those requiring specialist skills to others where energy and enthusiasm are the only qualifications. Our volunteering opportunities can be separated into three main areas; behind the scenes, working with the public and general activities.
Keep checking the website regularly for updates on our current opportunities. Alternatively you send us your name and contact details for our volunteer mailing list and we will let you know every time we have a new opportunity advertised.
There is no obligation for volunteers to work a minimum amount of time. Most opportunities are flexible, so you tell us what you can do and we will try to match you with a project that suits.
No, you will not be paid or given any payment in kind for work you carry out as a volunteer. We can only reimburse reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, eg the most economical transport possible between home and the site.
Yes, but it is your responsibility to tell your Job Centre or Benefits Office.
There is no limit to the number of hours a week that a person can volunteer, so long as they continue to actively seek paid employment, are willing and able to attend interviews, and can start a job at one weeks notice.
If you receive incapacity benefit you may volunteer provided the activity does not conflict with your stated incapacity.
In general there is no minimum or maximum age as long as:
If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must give permission for you to volunteer.
There is no upper age limit. Volunteers can work for as long as they are able to carry out the task effectively, and providing they are not putting their or others' health and safety in jeopardy.
Will volunteers receive training?
Yes, we ensure all volunteers receive the training necessary to be able to carry out their role.
Yes. There are no restrictions on volunteering by people from within the EU. People from outside the EU are not allowed to take up work, paid or unpaid (which includes volunteering) without a work permit. As work permits are only issued where a genuine vacancy exists, and where particular qualifications or skills are in short supply within the British and EEA labour force, there is little chance of obtaining a work permit solely to volunteer.
It is a condition of any offer of voluntary work that a security check will be made by the organisation irrespective of where you will be based or the type of work you are undertaking. This is to ensure that you will be a suitable candidate for working with vulnerable people (ie children and the elderly) and for working with the collections.