Can I claim benefits while volunteering?
Yes. The guidelines clearly state that volunteering does NOT affect your benefits‚ although you may have to let the authorities know.

Aren’t I too old?
Age is no barrier. We all have something to offer no matter our age or background.

Do I need any particular skills or qualifications?
Most volunteer roles don’t require them as you will be given any training you need.  Some of the more technical roles will require certain levels of skills‚ however this will be stated in advance.  If you have any special skills or qualifications that you think may be useful‚ make sure you let the Age Concern España know.

Can I volunteer with my family or friends?
Occasionally your local Age Concern España may be able to provide opportunities for this‚ but you won’t have such a large choice of activity and it may depend on a number of different factors related to the activity and safety.

Will I be interviewed? What will they ask me? What can I ask them?
A representative of Age Concern España will probably have an informal chat with you to allow them to find about more about you‚ and you more about them‚ although the roles which require more responsibility, such as a Caseworker, will involve a more formal interview.

The sort of questions asked will vary and will depend on the volunteer role that interests you most. You may discover other roles which suit you better. Typically you may be asked:

• Why do you want to volunteer with Age Concern España?
• What sort of role are you interested in?
• How much time can you offer?
• Do you have any particular skills you can offer?
• What new skills would you to learn through volunteering?
• You can ask anything you feel unsure about such as what expenses are reimbursed. It can also give you an opportunity to look at where you will be volunteering and meet some of the other staff and volunteers.

What support will I get while I’m volunteering?
We recognise how valuable your time is‚ so we are committed to ensuring that your volunteering is as enjoyable and satisfying as possible. Age Concern España will make sure that you have what you need to perform your role‚ you have your expenses re-imbursed‚ you are insured and that you receive on-going support so you know who to go to if you have a question or a problem.

Can I leave if I don’t like it?
Yes of course you can. If you are unhappy‚ however‚ it is always worth talking to your supervisor beforehand to see if there is anything your Age Concern can do to improve your experience such as changing your role to something you find more enjoyable.