Cancer Society of New Zealand

Frequently Asked Questions

Ko taku rourou, With my resources,
Ko tau rourou, And your resources,
Ka ora te tangata. Everyone will benefit. Māori Proverb

How much time do I need to volunteer?
As little or as much as you like! That is up to you. There are some volunteer roles that require an ongoing regular commitment whilst others such as being available to drive patients to treatment are more flexible. There are some one-off opportunities associated with special events such as Daffodil Day, Relay For Life and New Zealand House & Garden Tours.

I'm working full-time. Can I still be of assistance? or is there likely to be a role for me?
Yes, there are a number of opportunities that can be fitted around a busy working week. Proofreading, archiving, editing are just some examples of time-flexible roles. Others are visitors providing support to patients and families affected by cancer. The key is for you to work out what time you have and how much of it you wish to volunteer. However, a placement will depend upon your skills, experience, interests and availability. If vacancies do not match these and our needs it may not be possible to place you in a particular area of work immediately.

Will I be interviewed?
Yes, you will be invited to an informal chat to explore your offer and so that you can ask questions about volunteering for the Cancer Society. It will provide a chance to match your skills and interests with the needs and opportunities that currently exist in the Society.

Can I be paid something to cover my travel expenses?
Yes, you most certainly can. A contribution to travel expenses is reimbursed at a fixed rate for those volunteers authorised to use their private vehicles whilst on an official Cancer Society assignment. Volunteers, who of necessity use public transport to travel to and from their volunteer assignment, may also wish to claim their expenses.

Will I get any training?
All volunteers will receive an orientation. For some roles volunteers are required to attend an orientation programme to get an overview of the scope of work undertaken, the services offered by the Cancer Society Wellington and an introduction to aspects of cancer. It is mandatory for those volunteers who have patient contact to attend an additional two day Briefing Programme. This programme focuses on support needs of people affected by cancer and honing your practical skills and techniques to ensure safe practices. There will be regular updates tailored to the needs of specific volunteer groups. All these are great ways to meet fellow volunteers.

Why do I need  training?
Training is provided to support volunteers in their various types of work.  All volunteer roles are subject to normal Health and Safety guidelines as practised by the Cancer Society. The Society’s Standards for Engagement document is available on request.

What happens if I don't like it? Can I leave?
You can leave at any time. You are also allowed to say 'No' if you are asked to do something, which your time does not permit, or you feel unsuited to doing. You are encouraged though to speak to the Manager Volunteering if you are unhappy. The organisation is keen to ensure that your volunteer experience is both satisfying and rewarding. It may be that a change of role is an answer. Either way it is important to alert Manager Volunteering of any disquiet you may have.