home > volunteering opportunities > volunteering with witness service wandsworth

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How often can I come in?

A. There is no restriction on the maximum amount if time you choose to volunteer, however we do have a minimum commitment of 2 days per month (from 9.30am until 4.00 pm), this can be broken down into 4 half days.

Q. Will you pay my travel costs?

A. We pay all out-of-pocket expenses providing you have a receipt.  As well as travel expenses we also pay unto £3 for lunch when you volunteer for us for a whole day.

Q. What training will I receive?

A. You will attend a six-day magistrates court witness service-training course to equip you with the skills to undertake witness support.  You will also be required to attend a half-day induction at the court before you attend the course.  There is also the opportunity for more specialised training as and when you become more experienced.

Q. Where is the training course?

A. The training is mainly held at our Victim Support London Offices on Loman Street.  The nearest tube station is Borough.

Q. What happens if I don’t pass?

A. The course doesn’t have a pass or fail, it is assessed and the co-ordinator will receive a post training assessment from the trainers.  If there are any areas that are highlighted as needing attention then these will be addressed during your probationary period, which is 6 months long.

Q. Can I work I another court as well?

A. No, you will only be working at the court you apply to work at.

Q. Can you give me a reference?

A. We will give you a reference after a year’s service.

Q. I’m available over the summer months, is this ok?

A. Unfortunately we cannot take volunteers who are only available during the summer months, you need to be able to meet the minimum commitment at other times of the year too.  However, if you would like to volunteer more in the summer than at other times of the year as you have more free time that is fine.

Q. I haven’t got legal experience, is that a problem?

A. While having legal experience may be an advantage you don’t need any to volunteer for us as the training course is very comprehensive and covers everything you would need to know about the legal system.

Q. Do you need references?

A. Yes, we will take up references.  The preferably need to be someone who has know you for at least two years.  As well as references, we will also take up a criminal record check because of the nature of the voluntary work.

Q. If I apply now, how long will it take?

A. Assuming we have vacancies at the time of you applying the recruitment process involves an interview, followed by an induction day and the training course.  We will endeavour to get you on a training course as soon as we can, however at present there is only one training course per month and so realistically you won’t start supporting witnesses for about 3 – 4 weeks.

Copyright ©2003 Victim Support Wandsworth. All rights reserved.
 Web Design by Chameleon Studios