Welcome to the Isle of Wight Volunteer Centre website run by Community Action Isle of Wight
Community Action IW is a not for profit organisation providing local voluntary and community groups with a range of support services including volunteering, training, good practice and practical advice. For further information on our services please visit our website
We promote hundreds of opportunities across the Isle of Wight on behalf of charities, statutory organisations and community groups.
To look for current opportunities please search the IOW Volunteer Centre database.
Before doing a search it is worth taking some time to think about the kind of roles you might prefer, the type of organisation that might interest you and how much time you can offer. Please note that if you would like to apply for a role online via the IOW Volunteer Centre you will need to register your details first. You can do this at the top of this page or on the home page. If you can’t find anything suitable please click on finding a role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can volunteer?
Anyone can. Age, job status and skills need not be an obstacle. Each opportunity will set out what skills are required of you and you can select them according to your preferences. Some opportunities will have age/gender restrictions and may also require a DBS check. However, this will be stated in the opportunity’s description.
How much time will it take up?
This can be up to you. You can offer as much or as little of your time as you would like, although some opportunities will state the amount of time they expect from you.
What is Microvolunteering?
Please read our Microvolunteering page for more information.
I can’t find a suitable role or I need further help?
If you can’t find anything suitable, please email volunteer@actioniw.org.uk and we will get back to you as soon as we can to arrange a chat with you over the phone.
Will my expenses be covered?
Most organisations will cover your expenses such as travel costs to where you are volunteering. However, not all will do so. It is worth checking with the individual organisation, if it is not stated on the role description.
Will my benefits be affected?
Volunteering should not affect your benefits. For the latest information on volunteering whilst claiming welfare benefits please see the Direct-Gov website: https://www.gov.uk/volunteering
How long does the recruitment process take?
Once you have identified an opportunity you will be referred to the organisation. Please allow up to 10 working days for them to contact you. If you still do not hear from them please get in touch with the organisation or contact us.
After the initial contact the organisation will usually ask you to attend an informal chat or interview. They will send you an application form and usually you are asked to provide 2 referees. If you are working with young people or vulnerable adults you will need to have a DBS check. This can take a few weeks to process.