Mu
st I have qualifications?
Generally no. TFG is about enabling you to use and develop your gifts and abilities, and almost certainly to discover talents you didn't know you had! We do ask that you have a satisfactory level of English.
What about training?
TFG provides training (residential conferences and other distance learning material) for volunteers through their period of service. The conferences provide chances to meet the staff and other volunteers, share experiences, learn new skills and reflect on both the work you are doing and the development of your faith. We're also exploring possibilities for TF2012 volunteers to have opportunites for further specialised training and qualifications in fields that interest them. In addition the placement will also provide any specific training required to fulfil your job description.
Where and what will I live on?
The placement provides your food and accommodation. You will receive an allowance for food if it is not already provided. You will also receive pocket money monthly and your placement will reimburse any work expenses and sometimes help with other travel costs.
Could I volunteer with TFG whilst still living at home?
No. An important part of the experience is being away from home, meeting new people in new situations, and learning how to apply your faith and talents in new surroundings.
Are all the placements in London?
The project is NOT limited to London. Although the majority of the Games are happening in London there are other events being run all over, from the rowing near Windsor and the sailing on the south coast to football outside of Glasgow! Also, since Britain is small and very populous the challenges (ex: increase in sex trafficking, homelessness etc.) and opportunities (ex: lots of people passing through, excitement, community engagement) brought by the Olympics are likely to effect the whole nation. So we want to help support any groups that want to make the most of it.
Will my experience with TFG be useful in finding work later on?
Volunteers usually see their time with TFG as a chance to gain valuable experience. Working as a volunteer can be a stepping stone to further training and career options, a time to test out a vocation, or simply a chance to stretch yourself in new ways. During their placements, volunteers develop confidence and independence which can be particularly important before going on to further education or employment.
What happens after I have applied?
You will be invited to either a face-to-face interview event or a telephone/Skype interview. This is an opportunity to find out more about us. It includes a presentation about TF2012, activities for you to complete, time for your questions, and an interview - but don't panic! We want to find out about you and discuss what you might do during your time of service so that we can recommend the best placement for you. After the interview event, if you're approved then we begin the process of linking you with your placement which can take from a couple of weeks to a few months. Please note, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to find you a placement.
When would I start volunteering?
Time for 2012 had its first intake in January 2011 and more are coming in September 2011. We are also planning to set up some placements for volunteers to join in January 2012. Volunteers commit to then work at their placement through the end of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the summer of 2012 (for a min of 10 months).
How much and when will I need to pay?
You will need to pay a £50 deposit when you apply. You will then be sent an invoice for the remainder of your volunteer contribution when your placement is confirmed by TFG. The volunteer contribution for TF2012 is £1500 a year. This works out to just over £4 a day! We are more than happy to discuss these issues with you and help you to come up fundraising ideas.
If I'm a volunteer why do I have to pay?
TFG is a non-profit making charity and our programmes are funded entirely through finances contributed by volunteers and placements. If you are interested in the programme but the volunteer contribution is an issue for you PLEASE get in touch.
What's covered by my volunteer contribution?
- pocket money at a local subsistence level (£155 per month)
- full board and lodging for the length of placement
- volunteer training; residential conferences (including travel to and from them), group 'days away together, distance learning material
- field support; visits, pastoral care and mediation through regular contact from TFG field officers
- 24/7 emergency support if necessary
- final certificate acknowledging period of service
The volunteer's contribution does not include your travel to/from your home to your placement, any costs involved in getting an appropriate visa (if necessary), or your own health/travel insurance.