FAQs
How will my money be spent?
Your gifts won't be spent directly on the volunteer you are linked to. Instead, VSO will use your gift to ensure that volunteers like them get to where they are needed most.
How often will I hear from the volunteer I'm linked to?
The volunteers involved in volunteer linking have made a commitment to provide feedback every two months, although some may post updates and photos more frequently. However, you should bear in mind that internet access and work commitments might mean that updates are irregular or delayed.
Can I write back to the volunteer I'm linked to?
You are free to add comments or messages of support via the volunteer’s blog. However, we must stress that volunteers will not usually reply personally because to do so could take a considerable time and we do not want to interfere with their working schedules.
Will I be the only person linked to the volunteer?
No. We will link a number of people to each volunteer in order to offer more people the chance to share the volunteer linking experience.
What happens when the volunteer comes home?
You will have the chance to meet the volunteer you have been linked to when they return. And we will transfer your link to another volunteer so you can gain a fresh perspective on the work you are making possible.
Do I have to follow the volunteer’s progress online?
No. We are happy to send you a summary of feedback from the volunteer you are linked to by post three times a year. However, when you follow their progress online you’ll receive more updates as they happen – and reduce VSO’s costs.
Can I involve my friends with volunteer linking?
Of course. You can use the link on the volunteer page to bring friends on board. You could all link to the same person or get different perspectives by linking to different volunteers. And we’ll soon be introducing ways to take your volunteer linking into social networks like Facebook.
Can I visit the volunteer I am linked to?
Visits are sometimes possible but can be disruptive and, in many cases, completely impractical. If you want to visit, please contact heidi.weisskopf@vso.org.uk to discuss your plans.
