Without people like you, there wouldn't be a network of hygiene banks supporting those of us in crisis across the UK. We’ll provide you with all the tools, training and know-how required for your role so that people in your town can break free from the constraints of hygiene poverty.
Volunteering is an empowering, social experience that gives you the opportunity to make a real and tangible difference to those struggling with the stigma of hygiene poverty in your community. Watch the video above to get a feel for what the role entails. Whether you can commit a few days a week, or a few hours a month, your support can make a real difference. Volunteers must:
- Be aged 18 or over
- Be eligible to work or volunteer in the United Kingdom
- Be prepared to provide a copy of ID - proof of address (recent utility bill) and copy of either passport or drivers licence
Compassion and justice are values that underpin our society. We believe in helping each other out when we’re having a tough time and that is the model of The Hygiene Bank. A grass roots community initiative helping those in that same community that are struggling.
What volunteering roles are there?
Volunteer with an existing Hygiene Bank Project
A volunteer role can include setting up drop off points, growing the project, collecting, sorting or delivering donations to community partners or maybe social media or fundraising and grant applications. You may have a unique skill set to offer to make your mark on the project. Volunteering for The Hygiene Bank is a flexible role that can fit around your current commitments so you choose when to complete your volunteering and what time you have to offer.
Contact details for each project are listed here If you complete the enquiry form below (selecting the project you want to join), we will send you over details of volunteering with The Hygiene Bank and put you in touch with the project coordinator who will talk to you about volunteering with their project. If you decide to go ahead they will send you an application form and induction details, which is attending a short induction meeting online and sending us ID information.Set up a new Hygiene Bank in your area
This role involves setting up a new Hygiene Bank Project in your local area.....
You will be the project coordinator who oversees the project and is the main point of contact - Together with your team of volunteers you will run the project by setting up drop off points, collecting/sorting donations and delivering them to local community partners. You can also participate in additional activities such as social media, fundraising and engaging in community activities to raise awareness of the charity and your local giving. Setting up a hygiene bank is a unique opportunity to gain a whole range of skills and experience, make new friends and gain the satisfaction of leading and working in a team that makes a real difference in your community. Running a project can be an empowering experience and an opportunity to connect with people to make positive changes locally and nationally.
All of our grassroots projects are self-funded, with our support - We advise teams to fundraise a set-up contribution after sign-up to spend on their projects. All funds raised locally can be used to benefit your local community. Your fundraised funds help towards the costs of initial kit, hygiene product donations and other marketing needs. This contribution can be raised before sign-up via fundraising or afterwards, with support from Head Office.
If you would like to find out more then please complete the Volunteer Enquiry form and select "start a new project" and we will send you information and next steps.
Volunteering FAQs
1How do I find out about volunteering opportunities at my local Hygiene Bank?
Contact the project directly using the details on the 'Find your Local Project' page (Project coordinator emails are listed) or you can complete our volunteer enquiry form and we will introduce you to your local coordinator.
2My local area doesn't have a Hygiene Bank project, how can I help?
You can start a new project in your area. Please complete our volunteer enquiry form and select start a project and we will send you information on running a project.
All of our grassroots projects are self-funded - we advise teams to fundraise a set-up contribution after sign-up to spend on their projects. This helps towards the costs of initial printing, delivering, kit, hygiene product and assets. This contribution can be raised before sign-up via fundraising or afterwards, with support from us here at Head Office.
3What support will I get as a volunteer?
Every volunteer will have someone they work closely with. This is usually the Project Coordinator. This person will help you get set up in your role, answer any queries you may have while volunteering and support you if any problems occur.
4Do you reimburse expenses?
If you are volunteering for us we will reimburse expenses in line with our Volunteer Expenses Policy detailed in our Handbook. Please check with us directly before commencing your role.
5Will volunteering affect my benefits?
If you are in receipt of government benefits or support, you should speak with them for advice.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/volunteering-and-claiming-benefits
6Are there any age restrictions?
For the majority of roles, volunteers must by over 18 years old. There may be opportunities for volunteers under 18, for example such as sorting and packing. We have had Duke of Edinburgh award volunteers and Girl Guides. Volunteers that are under 18 must receive permission from their parent or guardian before starting their role.
7Can I volunteer if I have a criminal record?
A criminal record will not necessarily prevent you from volunteering, but we may need to make an assessment of any risks both to you the volunteer and to others. The nature of the offence, how long ago it was committed and its relevance to the volunteer role will be considered. Anyone with a caution or conviction for a sexual offence will not be able to volunteer.
8What if I have a physical or learning disability?
We are committed to embracing diversity and promoting equality and inclusion. As a volunteer, you can expect to be treated fairly regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, parental or marital status, disability, religion, colour, race, ethnic or national origins or socio-economic background. Please let us know if there are any health conditions or additional needs we may need to know about that could impact your volunteering in order for us to best support you to carry out your role.
9Are there set times or days when I need to volunteer?
Our volunteering roles are really flexible. If you are volunteering with an existing team, you can let your coordinator know your preferred times and days or take ownership of an aspect of the project and work ad hoc to suit your life and commitments. Some volunteering roles such as social media and fundraising can be done remotely.
10How much time does running a project take up?
If you are running your own project, you can manage the size and coverage to suit the time you have - A smaller grassroots project may only need a couple of hours a week, a larger project setup may need much more time and commitment.
You can also ask other people to get involved to reduce time required. We welcome both small and larger projects across the UK.
If you complete our volunteer enquiry form and select "start a new project" a Partnership Manager will arrange an informal chat so you can find out more.