• I am interested in doing some voluntary work, but don't know what to do or how to go about it

It's very simple. Our Volunteer Centre has listings of over 300 different volunteering opportunities in Swansea. Call us on 01792 544000 to make an appointment to speak to our Volunteer Development Officer about what the right option will be for you. Alternatively, you can look at the volunteering opportunities on line at www.volunteering-wales.net/index.html

• I am retired, still young and wish to volunteer my services

Great! We place volunteers of all ages, and many organisations appreciate the maturity and experience that older volunteers have to offer.

• I am a student and I need to get some counselling experience – which organisations deal with counselling?

Many organisations need volunteers to offer telephone counselling, e.g Childline. Other organisations such as CISS (Cancer Information Support Services) do use counsellors in their service. However, there are many organisations that do not offer a counselling service, but who would benefit from volunteers who can demonstrate counselling skills, e.g. listening, communication, respecting confidentiality, etc.

• Do I need to have the use of a vehicle?

Volunteer drivers are always greatly in demand, however, there are numerous opportunities where you will not be required to have the use of a car, and the majority of organisations will reimburse any travel expenses that you might incur, including public transport costs.

• I'm young and don't have much experience. Can I still volunteer?

Volunteering is one of the best ways to get experience and develop your skills. There are more and more opportunities for you to volunteer as a young person, and we will always do our best to find you a placement that will give you experience, build your skills and confidence - and give you the chance to have fun in the process! SCVS have a dedicated worker whose role it is to help young people find an opportunity, so contact Felicitie Walls on 01792 544030 or email: felicitie_walls@scvs.org.uk to find out more.

• Do I need any qualifications to volunteer?

No. Volunteering is a great way to access training, gain qualifications and build your skills. All volunteering organisations would expect that you are reliable and trustworthy, and whilst skills which you already have developed are always welcomed, it's rare that an organisation will ask for formal qualifications.

• I have a criminal record – can I still volunteer?

Volunteering opportunities are available to everyone! A positive CRB check may preclude you from some activities, but this will depend on the nature of the offence and what it is you would like to do. Organisations will consider the nature of the volunteering role you have applied for and will talk to you if there is an issue, the main thing is to be honest with the organisation from the beginning if you do have any convictions.

• Can I volunteer for more than one project?

You can do as much volunteering as you want, but it's important not to overcommit yourself to several organisations at once. Perhaps try one organisation first, and once you have a feel of the time commitment that will be required, then you could go on to further your volunteering with other agencies. Also, if you are in receipt of benefits, then you will be required to meet certain criteria. Contact us at the Volunteer Centre for more information.