|
Training may not have been something you thought about or
felt you needed when you became interested in volunteering. However
for some areas of volunteering, training is a necessary requirement
before you can even get started.
To give you some idea of the different types of training
available, why not take a look at some of the categories below. You
may be surprised, even inspired! Some links open in a new
window:
Don't let the idea of training put you off volunteering
Finding out what training is involved may help you to decide
whether you've chosen the right type of volunteering or spur you on
to learn more about a particular volunteering activity.
Never assume you are too old to consider training.
On the job training
Many volunteers aren't aware they can get training or that
they're actually being trained as they work.
It is important to ask about training options when you enquire
about volunteering opportunities or where you already volunteer for
an organisation, especially if you feel this would enhance the
volunteering you are currently doing.
Where to find training?
If you already know the type of volunteering you want to do,
contact your
local Volunteer Centre to ask about the possibility of training
and training requirements. Some organisations have set requirements
and will either train you themselves or put you in touch with a
preferred training organisation.
Many Volunteer Centres and Council's for Voluntary Service have
facilities to run training sessions on site. Courses can cover a
range of topics including:
- an introduction to volunteering
- minute taking
- community development
- basic IT
- PR and marketing
- ECDL IT courses
- Level 2 Award in health and safety in the workplace
- Btec awards for mentoring
If you are already volunteering, ask your organisation about the
opportunity for training. There may be courses that would be useful
in their area of work but not a requirement such as first aid, team
leading and tools maintenance.
Achievement and Accreditation
We all like to feel a sense of achievement with a job well done
and recognition, whether formal or informal, is always well
received. For those looking for employment, a change of career, or
another volunteering opportunity, it is always worthwhile to add
your achievements to your CV. |