National Offenders' Families Helpline, supporting families across England, Wales and Scotland
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Chat to other families
Listening, supportive and non-judgemental
Get advice and support whenever you need it
Helpline 0808 800 2222
Volunteering FAQs
Will volunteering affect my benefits?
There have been some rules around volunteering and receiving benefits. It is important to let your benefits adviser know if you have started to volunteer. If you receive Jobseeker's Allowance, you can still volunteer as long as you are still actively looking for employment. There are varied rules for different benefits and the Citizen's Advice Bureau has comprehensive advice on this.
Will I have to complete an application form?
We ask all those interested in volunteering to complete an application form.
I am disabled. Can I volunteer?
Yes. The staff members at your chosen project will do their best to ensure you can volunteer the way you want to. If you have specific access needs, you can contact with the relevant office team and let them know about any reasonable adjustments you require.
I am an asylum seeker. Can I volunteer?
Yes, you can. Family Lives is a registered charity and asylum seekers, even if they have been refused asylum and are waiting to go home, are allowed to volunteer for charities. You can also claim out-of-pocket expenses.
I have a criminal record. Does that mean I can't volunteer?
That depends on what your criminal record is for. Each Family Lives project will look at volunteers individually, and make a decision based on the type of offence as per our CRB policy.
How we can help you
If you would like support and advice, you can talk to one of our Family Support Workers by calling our confidential helpline on 0808 800 2222. You can also share experiences and advice with other parents on our Forums. Family Lives is here for you and you can contact us about any family issue, big or small.
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Meet the family
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