Frequently Asked Questions

What about my expenses?

Depending on how many hours you volunteer in a day, Able Foundation can reimburse certain out-of-pocket expenses for travel and lunch, and may be able to help you with reasonable childcare costs. We’ll discuss this before you start volunteering with us.

How much time do I need to give?

As much or as little of your time – whatever suits you best – even if it’s as little as one or two hours. All we ask is that you agree hours convenient to you with us, and that you are around to complete any activity you volunteer for.

I work full time, so can I volunteer in the evenings or at weekends?

Most of the volunteering opportunities we offer are generally operate within office hours. If you are unable to volunteer during that time there may not be a role suitable for you. Alternatively, there may be more convenient volunteer hours in our supported housing. For other ways to get involved with Able Foundation, including fundraising or volunteering for events, please see the ‘Get Involved’ section on our website.

Does volunteering affect my benefits?

No – volunteering is unpaid. But, make sure you are meeting the conditions of the benefit or tax credit you receive. For example: if you get Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) you need to show you are still actively seeking paid work, can attend a job interview at 48 hours’ notice and take up paid work within one week’s notice.

Can I volunteer if I’m a refugee or asylum seeker?

Yes – if you have ‘refugee status’ or ‘exceptional leave to remain’ in this country, you can do any type of work including voluntary work. If you have a letter saying you must not do paid work, you can still volunteer and get out-of-pocket expenses.

I have a disability, so can I volunteer at Able Foundation?

Yes – Able Foundation is strongly committed to equality and diversity, welcoming people from any background and those with disabilities.

What will happen after I’ve submitted an application form?

We will then contact you as soon as possible to let you know if there is a volunteering role available, and to check you are still interested in volunteering with Able Foundation. If there is a suitable role available, you will be asked to attend a brief interview. Although this sounds formal, it is really just an opportunity for us to get to know one another and to find out about your skills.