Strathearn Building Bridges 

Charity Number sc048085

Frequently Asked questions

Volunteers

Q: What is your application process?

A: To express an interest in volunteering, send us an email at Building-bridges@hotmail.com. We will then send you an application form to complete. The form asks for basic personal information, skills you would like to bring to the group, and your availability. We also ask for two references, which may be personal, professional, or academic. We will look at your application and may ask you to do an informal interview that may also place during a SBBI event. If you are applying for a volunteering role that falls under the regulated work category, you will be asked to become part of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme. PVG membership is mandatory for volunteers doing regulated work and is free to apply for within charity organisations. However, for many volunteers, this step is not necessary!

Q: Do I need a Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check?


A: Yes - all of our members are defined as being part of a vulnerable group by the UK government. Because volunteers are often managing (in sole charge of) vulnerable people during activities, PVG checks are therefore mandatory. However, as we are a charity, this service is free and is done as part of the volunteer onboarding for regular volunteers.

Q: What do you do with my personal information?


A: Following a successful PVG check, personal information will never be shared with anyone outside the organisation. Paper copies of applications will be kept until they can be transferred to a secured electronic format. Paper applications are then shredded or burned.

Electronic records of volunteers are kept on a shared, encrypted drive, accessible only by SBBI trustees, the volunteer co-ordinator, and volunteer leaders. If a volunteer leaves the organisation, their information will be deleted from this drive.

Members

Q: What is the age limit for members?


A: Our constitution states that membership is open to 'any individual aged 16 or over from the Strathearn area who agrees with the stated purposes of the organisation.' In practice, all of our social groups are currently attended by individuals aged 18 and above. Some of our members are in their 50s or 60s but fit in just as easily with the younger members!


In the past we've included younger people (12 and over) in our sports groups, with support as appropriate. These offerings are now opening thanks to partnership with Perth and Kinross Disability Sport, so reach out if you have an interested party, even if they are under the age of 16!

Q: Does it cost anything to join?


A: No! Some events, such as Saturday lunch club, involve small fees to pay for food, games, films, etc.. We endeavour to keep all costs to £5 or below. All our new sport opportunities in partnership with Perth and Kinross Disability Sport are free! 

Q: Can you provide transportation?


A: At the moment, we unfortunately cannot provide transport. We are, however, open to discussing this as an option in the future.

Q: Can you provide transport?


A: Unfortunately, not at the moment. We are, however, open to future discussions about transportation as needed.