What is the Volunteer Service?
Our Volunteer Service connects trained volunteers with carers and people with care needs across Kent and Medway. Volunteers provide companionship, practical support, transport to appointments, and respite care tailored to individual needs.
Who can access volunteer support?
Anyone across Kent and Medway can request volunteer support, including:
- Carers who need respite breaks
- People with physical or mental health conditions
- People with disabilities
- Older people who need companionship or practical help
- Anyone referred by health or social care professionals
The service is available to people of all ages and backgrounds.
How do I request volunteer support?
Contact us directly on 0345 095 6701 or email enquiries@crossroadskent.org. We'll discuss your needs, match you with a suitable volunteer, and arrange an introduction. Support placements are typically arranged for 12 weeks initially, with regular reviews.
How much does volunteer support cost?
Most volunteer support is completely free, including companionship visits, practical help, and respite care. Our volunteer transport service has a small charge of 75p per mile to cover the volunteer's mileage, parking, and administration expenses.
What can volunteers help with?
Volunteers can provide:
- Companionship and friendship during home visits
- Light housework (tidying, washing up, making beds)
- Shopping assistance and collecting prescriptions
- Transport to healthcare appointments and essential trips
- Accompanying clients on walks or short outings
- Respite breaks for carers
Volunteers cannot provide personal care (washing, dressing) or professional services like deep cleaning or gardening.
How long does volunteer support last?
Support placements are typically arranged for 12 weeks initially, but can be extended, adjusted, or reviewed based on changing needs. The service is flexible and designed to support you for as long as beneficial.
How can I become a volunteer?
Contact us to express your interest, complete an application and interview, undergo DBS checks and references, complete our comprehensive training, and begin volunteering with ongoing support from our team. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels.
What training do volunteers receive?
All volunteers receive comprehensive induction training covering safeguarding, boundaries, communication, and practical skills. We provide ongoing support, regular supervision, and additional training opportunities as needed.
Do volunteers need to have experience?
No prior experience is necessary. We provide full training and ongoing support. What matters most is compassion, reliability, good communication skills, and a genuine desire to help others.
Can I choose my volunteer?
Yes, we carefully match volunteers with clients based on needs, location, interests, and availability. You'll meet your volunteer before support begins to ensure you're comfortable with the arrangement. If for any reason the match isn't right, we can arrange a different volunteer.
What if I need to cancel or change a visit?
We understand that circumstances change. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule a visit. We'll work with you and the volunteer to find a new time that works for everyone.
Can volunteers help with personal care?
No, volunteers provide companionship and practical support but cannot assist with personal care tasks like washing, dressing, or toileting. For personal care needs, please contact our Short Breaks service or Paid Services.
How often can a volunteer visit?
This depends on your needs and the volunteer's availability. Visits can be arranged weekly, fortnightly, or at a frequency that works for both you and the volunteer. We'll discuss the best arrangement when you contact us.
Can volunteers provide emergency support?
While we aim to be flexible, our Volunteer Service is designed for planned, regular support rather than emergency situations. For urgent care needs, please contact our Urgent Care service or contact us on 0345 095 6701 to discuss emergency options.
Have more questions?
Get in touch on 0345 095 6701 or email enquiries@crossroadskent.org