Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a potential REACH volunteer?

If you have managerial, professional or technical expertise, and are based in the UK, the answer is yes. You don’t have to have been in a senior post – we help find roles for all teachers, for example, not just heads!

Am I committing myself for ever?

No. If you want to make a short-term commitment, we do have a number of shorter-term projects. Otherwise voluntary organisations do generally feel they would like some sort of commitment to the role from their volunteers.

Will I be offered quite a choice?

In most parts of the country there will be a wide range of opportunities and roles, but if you live far from a major city there may be not so many nearby. London has a particularly wide choice of opportunities – as do the other major conurbations.

How quickly will things happen?

We will get back to you quite quickly – usually within 7 days – with a selection of opportunities, and as a registered volunteer you will have access to those in your area, via REACH interactive.

If I see a role that I like, what happens next?

If you want to pursue any of these opportunities we will immediately forward your details to the voluntary organisation. But after that it is really up to the organisation.

Why haven’t I heard from the voluntary organisation?

Small organisations have limited resources, and although they may really want you it could take them a while to move things forward.

If I am not happy in a role will it be difficult to extricate myself?

Normally organisations suggest a probationary period, as they want it to work out too. If you are not happy, or if your circumstances change, of course you will be free to leave – and maybe to look for another opportunity through REACH.

Do I have to work in my main field of expertise?

No. We are keen that people use their skills, but often these skills are transferable and people may prefer to use them differently from the way they have used them in their main career.

Will my expenses be refunded?

All the organisations that register with REACH have given undertakings that they will reimburse reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. However, you should not expect anything in the way of a salary.