Frequently asked questions

We hope this page will answer any questions you have about the Volunteer to Career (VtC) programme, but don't hesitate to get in touch if you still have a query.

The Volunteer to Career programme is a pioneering initiative that aims to address staffing shortages in the NHS by actively encouraging volunteers to pursue a career in Healthcare.

The programme provides a pathway for volunteers to seek employment within the CNWL NHS Foundation Trust by providing volunteers with the appropriate support and resources, as well as assistance in identifying entry jobs within our Trust.

The VtC programme is open to anyone who is interested in a career within Health and Social Care.

To access the VtC programme, you must have completed 30 hours of volunteering and continue to be an active volunteer. Once you meet this requirement, you can start receiving support through the VtC programme.

Volunteers should be able to commit for at least 30 hours, be over 18 years old, have the right to work in the UK, and be ready to go through recruitment checks such as a DBS check, an occupational health check, references checks and training requirements such as the National Volunteer Certificate.

The VtC programme offers volunteer roles that can help you to gain experience in healthcare settings. There are no paid employment roles available directly through the VtC programme, instead, the programme is designed to support you in your job search by offering guidance on CV writing, personal statements, and interview preparation, helping you navigate the formal channels to secure employment.

The programme is open to anyone over the age of 18, from all backgrounds who are passionate about contributing to the healthcare sector while developing their own skills and knowledge. Volunteer roles are advertised on our website, where you can explore opportunities and submit your application.

View volunteering opportunities here.

The VtC programme supports volunteers by offering meaningful volunteers roles as well as practical guidance on CV writing, personal statements, and interview preparation. Volunteers also receive mentoring, career advice, and assistance in building confidence and exploring healthcare career pathways.

Please note: Volunteering and taking part in this programme doesn’t automatically guarantee a job. You will still need to apply through formal channels and complete all necessary pre-employment checks.

Yes, all volunteers take part in the eLearning for Health Training. This programme covers a range of important topics, including your volunteer role and responsibilities, data security, equality and diversity and safeguarding between others.

The support lasts for a maximum period of one year. During this time, your VtC Lead will work with you to develop your CV, application statements, and interview preparation skills,  gaining knowledge and developing the skills necessary to be successful in your job applications.

Once you have received an offer of employment or after one year in the programme, support will be withdrawn to allow new volunteers to access it.

Yes, you can apply to multiple volunteer roles that align with your interests and availability. However, you must meet the 30 hour requirement and remain an active volunteer to access the VtC programme’s support.

No prior experience is required. The programme is designed to support individuals who are new to the healthcare sector or looking to gain (more) experience. Our team will help you develop the necessary skills and provide training to prepare you for volunteer roles.

Only active volunteers who have completed at least 30 hours of volunteering can  access and get the support from the VtC programme. You can take time off volunteering, and the support from the VtC programme will re-start once you start again your volunteering.  If you stop volunteering entirely, you can’t be part of the programme.

If you do not secure employment within one year of participating in the VtC programme, the formal support will end. However, you can still continue to volunteer and use the skills and knowledge you've gained through the VtC programme independently in your job search.

International volunteers can apply to the VtC programme, but you must have the right to work and volunteer in the UK. The programme cannot provide assistance with visas or sponsorship, so you will need to ensure you meet all the requirements before applying.

Once you have completed 30 hours of volunteering, the VtC programme offers guidance on creating CVs, personal statements, and preparing for interviews. You will receive feedback on drafts and help with tailoring your applications for healthcare roles.

If you stop volunteering before completing 30 hours, you will not be eligible to access the VtC programme’s support. It’s important to stay engaged and active to make use of the support offered through the programme.

Yes, you are free to apply for any paid roles while volunteering. The programme is designed to help you gain skills and prepare for job applications, but you can apply for other positions independently at any time.

Yes, each volunteer in the VtC programme is paired with the VtC Lead who will guide you through your volunteering experience, provide support, and help you develop your skills.