Frequently asked questions
We hope that we have included all the information that you may want to know throughout this site and you are welcome to contact us at post@twam.uk if you have any queries, but we have listed below answers to some of the more common questions that are likely to arise.
Do I have to be a Christian to be able to volunteer for TWAM?
No. Whilst we are a Christian Charity, we welcome people of the Christian faith, other faith or no faith to volunteer with us.
Is there a set amount of time I am expected to volunteer for?
No. All we ask is that you agree the day you would like to volunteer with us and where possible make this your regular weekly commitment.
Will I need to attend an interview?
We don’t carry out interviews as such. After you've filled out the application form and we have your references, we will invite you in for a chat but this will be very informal and aimed at matching you to the right role. For the more senior volunteering roles such as country coordinator, there would be a more formal process and a discussion with the Chief Executive. These days many informal chats are done online.
What age do I need to be to volunteer?
Due to the nature of much of our volunteering and various legal and other constraints, you normally need to be at least 18 years of age to volunteer with TWAM, but there is no upper age limit!
Will you cover my expenses?
We don't want anyone to suffer financial hardship due to their volunteering with TWAM, so we are happy to pay reasonable expenses. For example, for travel to and from the local centre as long as these expenses are agreed in advance with your named contact. We would also expect to pay reasonable travel expenses for collectors and speakers on longer journeys
I am on benefits - will volunteering for TWAM affect this?
No, it shouldn't - but tell your Job Centre or Benefits Office before volunteering to get their confirmation. There is no maximum limit to the number of hours that you may volunteer, but if you are claiming JSA, you must continue to search for paid work and be willing and able to attend an interview given 48 hours notice.
I've got a criminal record - can I still volunteer?
Yes, you can, but there may be limitations. Depending on the nature of your criminal record there may be some roles you can't do but others which would still be open to you.
What if I want to stop volunteering?
We realise that people's circumstances change and if you want to stop volunteering at any time, that's not a problem. We just ask that you let your named contact at TWAM know as soon as possible, and if you are in a role such as a collector or speaker that you fulfil any activity already planned if at all possible, and if you can’t, that you let the group or donor and your TWAM contact know