We welcome people from all walks of life. There is no typical Hospice of the Valleys volunteer. Everyone brings their own experiences, skills, interests and perspectives, helping us support what matters most to people and their loved ones across Blaenau Gwent and the wider community.

Whether you're working, retired, studying, looking to meet new people, or simply wanting to become more involved in your community, we'd love to hear from you.

We also welcome young volunteers, with some opportunities available for those under 16 in areas such as retail and selected events, with parental or guardian consent.

In addition, we offer 10-week placement opportunities for people looking to explore a new career path, gain valuable experience, or develop skills in a particular area. Placements can provide a supportive environment to build confidence, learn new skills and gain insight into working within a charity that supports local people and their loved ones.

Whatever your background or reason for volunteering, we'll work with you to find an opportunity that matches your interests, skills and availability. Together, we can help support what matters most in our community.

We welcome volunteers of all ages and backgrounds.
Some volunteering opportunities are available for young people aged under 16, including selected retail and event volunteering roles. If you are under 16, we'll need permission from a parent or guardian before you can get involved.
Many of our volunteering opportunities are available from the age of 16 and over, although some roles may have additional requirements. For example, volunteer drivers must meet specific licence and insurance requirements.
If you're interested in volunteering and aren't sure which opportunities are available to you, we'd be delighted to help. Simply get in touch with our team and we'll talk through the options that might be right for you.

Not necessarily.
Many volunteer roles don't require previous experience, and we'll help you find an opportunity that matches your interests, skills and confidence.
What's most important is a willingness to support others and be part of our volunteer community.

We'll help you find a volunteering opportunity that matches your interests, skills and availability.
When you get in touch, we'll have an informal conversation about what you'd like to get from volunteering, your experience and the types of opportunities that interest you. Together, we'll explore roles that could be a good fit for you.
For some volunteering opportunities, we may also be able to offer a taster session. This gives you the chance to learn more about the role, meet the team and experience the environment before making a longer-term commitment.
We understand that starting something new can feel a little daunting, so we're here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're looking to support your local community, gain experience, develop new skills or simply try something different, we'll help you find an opportunity that feels right for you and supports what matters most.

We'll guide you through the process step by step.
Typically, your volunteering journey will include:
1. An informal conversation about your interests and availability.
2. Exploring suitable volunteer opportunities.
3. Any required references or checks.
4. Training and induction.
5. Ongoing support as you begin your role.

This varies depending on the role.
Some opportunities can begin quite quickly, while others may require references, training or additional checks before you can get started.
We'll keep you informed throughout the process and support you every step of the way.

Some volunteer roles may require references, but this will depend on the nature of the opportunity.
Where references are needed, we'll let you know as part of the recruitment process and explain what is required. References may help us ensure we provide a safe, supportive and positive experience for everyone involved.
If references are requested, they do not need to be from an employer and could include people such as friends, neighbours, teachers, tutors or community contacts who know you well.
If you're unsure whether a particular role requires references, please get in touch and we'll be happy to talk you through the process.

Yes. Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent you from volunteering with Hospice of the Valleys.
Some volunteer roles require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, particularly where there may be direct contact with people who use our services. If a DBS check is required for your chosen role, we'll explain this as part of the recruitment process and support you every step of the way.
DBS checks for volunteers are provided free of charge, and our team will be on hand to guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.
Every situation is considered individually, fairly and confidentially. We understand that everyone's circumstances are different, and we'll always take the time to discuss any concerns with you and explore suitable volunteering opportunities together.
If you'd like to have a conversation before applying, please get in touch. We're here to help you find a role that feels right for you.

This depends on the role.
Some opportunities are regular and ongoing, while others are flexible and can fit around work, study, family life and other commitments.
We'll work with you to find an opportunity that feels manageable and rewarding.

Yes.
Many of our volunteers balance volunteering with work, college, university or other responsibilities. We offer a range of opportunities with different levels of commitment.

Absolutely.
Not everyone can commit to regular volunteering, which is why some opportunities allow people to support individual events, fundraising activities or specific projects.

We want every volunteer to feel confident, supported and prepared for their role.
All volunteers receive a general induction to Hospice of the Valleys, covering our organisation, values, volunteering procedures, policies and the important role volunteers play in supporting people and their loved ones across Blaenau Gwent.
Following this, you'll receive any role-specific induction and training needed for your volunteering opportunity. This may include practical guidance, specialist training, health and safety information, or support tailored to the role you'll be carrying out.
Our volunteering team will be there to support you throughout your journey, and we'll ensure you have the knowledge, guidance and resources you need to feel comfortable and confident in your role.
Whatever opportunity you choose, you'll be welcomed into a supportive community built on compassion, quality and togetherness, helping to support what matters most across our local community.

When you volunteer with Hospice of the Valleys, you'll become part of a supportive community built on compassion, quality and togetherness.
Throughout your volunteering journey, you'll have access to guidance and support from your designated contact and our Volunteer Manager, who will be available to answer questions, provide advice and help you feel confident in your role.
You'll also have the opportunity to connect with other volunteers, sharing experiences, knowledge and encouragement as part of our wider volunteer community.
We understand that questions or concerns can arise from time to time, which is why we offer both informal and formal opportunities to discuss any issues, feedback or support needs. Whether it's a quick conversation, a regular catch-up, or a more structured review, we're committed to ensuring you feel valued, listened to and supported.
Our aim is to create a positive volunteering experience where you feel welcome, confident and able to make a meaningful contribution while supporting what matters most in your community.

Yes.
Many volunteers choose to explore different opportunities over time as their interests, skills or circumstances change.
We'll be happy to discuss alternative roles that may suit you.

That's completely normal.
Starting something new can feel daunting, but you're not alone. We'll take the time to get to know you, answer your questions and help you feel confident before you begin.
Many of our volunteers felt exactly the same way when they first got involved.

In many cases, volunteering can be undertaken while receiving benefits.
Because circumstances differ from person to person, we recommend checking current guidance and speaking with your benefits adviser if you have any concerns.

We don't want expenses to be a barrier to volunteering.
Agreed volunteer expenses can be reimbursed in line with Hospice of the Valleys' volunteer policies. During your general volunteer induction, we'll explain what expenses can be claimed, how the process works and the simple administration required to submit a claim.
Expense claims are processed monthly, following the completion and submission of the relevant claim forms and supporting information where required.
Our aim is to ensure that volunteers are not out of pocket as a result of giving their time to support people and their loved ones across Blaenau Gwent. If you have any questions about expenses, our Volunteer Manager or designated contact will be happy to help.

Everyone's experience of bereavement is different.
For some people, volunteering can provide a sense of purpose, connection and support. If you've been recently bereaved and are considering volunteering, we'd encourage you to get in touch for an informal conversation.
Together, we can explore opportunities that feel right for you.

The opportunities we advertise reflect the current needs of Hospice of the Valleys and our community.
Some roles may only become available when additional support is needed or when existing volunteers move on.
If a particular role isn't currently available, we'd still encourage you to register your interest so we can keep you informed about future opportunities.

We want volunteering to be a positive and rewarding experience from the very beginning.
Your journey will usually follow these steps:
1. Register your interest/Application Form
Tell us a little about yourself and what interests you.
2. Informal conversation
We'll discuss your interests, skills and availability.
3. Find the right opportunity
Together, we'll identify a role that feels right for you.
4. Induction and training
We'll provide the support and information you need.
5. Start volunteering
Join our volunteer community and start supporting what matters most across Blaenau Gwent.
6. Ongoing support
We'll continue to support you throughout your volunteering journey.