Volunteer

Volunteering with British Blind Sport is a great way to make a visible difference through sport and physical activity. Not only does it benefit the organisation, it also gives you the opportunity to give something back, meet new people, gain experience and have fun.

Through the year we host a range of events where we need volunteers to support with delivery and administration.

These opportunities include:

• Sighted Guides
• Registration Support
• Sport Specific Support
• Guide Dog Support
• General Event Support

To apply to our volunteer programme, please complete the following form and a member of our team will be in touch: www.britishblindsport.org.uk/forms/view/volunteerform

• Volunteer Self-Disclosure Form
• Safeguarding Policies
• Photography Policy
• Friends of BBS Free Membership
• British Blind Sport Events

Do I need to have experience working with people with a visual impairment?

No, although prior experience is welcomed. Volunteers just need to be willing to learn and have a can-do attitude. We will provide information for you to read through in advance of the event and will also have a volunteer briefing on the day, which will include advice on how to guide people with a visual impairment.

Is training provided?

All event volunteers will receive a volunteer handbook which provides lots of useful information. On the day of the event, volunteers will be required to attend a briefing which will include basic training for the role they will be fulfilling. Depending on the role, additional training may also be provided.

How can I find out more about upcoming volunteering opportunities?

Either sign up to become a volunteer using the link above. You will be added to our volunteer database and be notified about upcoming opportunities. You can also sign up to our Friends of BBS membership and will receive volunteer updates including upcoming volunteer opportunities in our regular newsletter.

Will refreshments be provided?

This will depend on the event. Normally refreshments are not provided and volunteers are expected to bring their own snacks/drinks. There is normally a facility to purchase refreshments nearby. We will ensure that there is provision to refill water bottles.

Can I claim travel expenses?

Yes. In the week following the event you will be sent a volunteer expense form to complete and return along with any receipts e.g. for the parking charges. Please ensure you return this form to BBS Participation Officer, Shamira Naidu-Young (shamira@britishblindsport.org.uk) within 3 months of the event.

Will I be provided with a uniform/be required to wear a uniform?

We will normally ask volunteers to wear a particular colour t-shirt so that they stand out and will provide a volunteer bib to be worn on the day. Exact uniform details will depend on the event and will be provided to volunteers in advance of the event.

Do I need a DBS check to volunteer?

In most cases you do not. We require all volunteers to complete a DBS Self-Disclose (see link above) and share any copies of current/relevant DBS checks. In some circumstances though, a full DBS check may be required.

I am visually impaired, can I volunteer?

Yes! We welcome people with a visual impairment to be involved in all aspects of BBS whether as participants, volunteers or staff. However, please note that some volunteer roles will not be suitable for people with a visual impairment due to the specific requirements of the role e.g. sighted guides.