Here are some common questions that you may have about volunteering with Candlelighters. If you can’t find the answer you are looking for then please contact us on 0113 887 8333 or email Elise and Corinne at [email protected].

What do volunteers do at Candlelighters?

Volunteers help Candlelighters in various ways, including helping at events, welcoming families to our support centre, providing essential administrative and office support, helping to raise awareness about our work and more! Whatever the role, every single volunteer helps us to make a difference to children and families affected by childhood cancer.

Why volunteer for Candlelighters?

People volunteer with Candlelighters for all sorts of reasons. Some have a personal connection to Candlelighters and want to give something back. Some want to develop new skills or gain valuable work experience (volunteering is great to have on your CV!). Some want to make a difference to others in their community, whilst others want to meet new people or do something fun and rewarding.

How do I find out about current volunteering opportunities?

All our volunteering opportunities are advertised on our website, you can find a list here.

How do I apply?

Due to the sensitive nature of our work, we have a thorough recruitment and selection process for volunteers

• Potential volunteers complete an online application form and email it to [email protected].
• Applications are shortlisted based on how closely the potential volunteer meets the requirements as listed on the Volunteer Role Profile
• Selected applicants are invited for an interview
• Successful applicants are asked to provide two references
• DBS (criminal record checks) are conducted where required

For Challenge Events you only need to sign-up using the sign-up form.

What skills and experience do I need?

The skills and experience required varies depending on the role and is listed under ‘Volunteer Requirements’ on the webpage for that specific role.

How old do I need to be?

All our volunteers need to be 18 years old or over, apart from Challenge Event Cheerers, so long as they’re accompanied by an adult.

How much time will I have to commit?

The time commitment varies, depending on the role. Some roles involve a commitment of one day a week, a few hours every few weeks or just a one-off day so there’s sure to be a role that fits your schedule.

The time commitment for each role is listed on the webpage for that specific role.

Will I receive training?

Yes, all volunteers receive general induction training and role-specific training to enable them to fulfil their role.

Challenge Event Volunteers are sent information and briefings from ourselves and the event organisers on the build-up to the event.

Are expenses reimbursed?

We believe that volunteers should not be out of pocket as a result of volunteering, so we reimburse reasonable out-of-pocket travel expenses.

Can I volunteer with children in hospital?

We do not offer volunteering opportunities on the wards. If you are specifically interested in volunteering in the hospital, please contact Leeds NHS Trust. However, our Front of House and Family Event Volunteers can meet patients and their families and our Gardeners go onto ward gardens.

Where will I be based?

This will vary depending on the role. Some roles are based at The Square (our Family Support Centre) or administrative office in Woodhouse Square in Leeds. Other roles are based in and around the community. The location of each role will be listed on the webpage for that specific role.

Can I volunteer if I have received support from Candlelighters?

We recognise that many people who have received support from Candlelighters want to give something back through volunteering, and their personal experiences, knowledge and perspectives makes them ideally suited to many volunteer roles.

However, some volunteering roles may not be suitable. This to ensure the family are given the best possible care and support without any potential conflict of interest. This will listed on the Volunteer Role profile where relevant.

What support do volunteers receive?

All regular volunteers have a Volunteer Supervisor to support them throughout their time as a volunteer.

Will volunteering affect my benefits?

Volunteering shouldn’t affect your benefits providing you follow the appropriate guidelines. Please see here for more details.