At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive a van to transport animals in need and support RSPCA Inspectors.
- Company: Join the RSPCA, a leading charity dedicated to animal welfare.
- Benefits: Meet new people, learn skills, and make a difference while volunteering.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly community and contribute to animal welfare.
- Qualifications: Must have a valid driving licence and be 18 or over.
- Other info: Volunteers must commit for a year and are reimbursed for travel expenses.
Overview
Volunteer RSPCA Van Driver (March, Cambridgeshire area). Do you enjoy driving? Help transport animals in need and support our Inspectors by moving animals to and from vets, private boarding establishments, animal centres and hospitals within health and safety guidelines. Most of our drivers are volunteers, saving Inspectorate time and freeing up their time to attend calls for help.
Responsibilities
- Transport animals to and from vets, private boarding establishments, animal centres and hospitals as required and directed by local guidelines. May involve lifting animals of various sizes and weight.
- Use a van supplied by the RSPCA (manual gearbox) and follow health and safety guidelines.
- Clean animal transport equipment and the van interior after each use.
- Complete mileage returns; minimal paperwork (training will be given).
- Undertake appropriate training as directed by the network team and the animal centre, including online training, a driving declaration and a face-to-face induction. A laptop/PC is required as online training may be incompatible with mobile devices.
- Do not engage in direct animal handling.
- Have a chat with members of the Animal Logistics team after your application (video or telephone call, as we are a home-based team).
Requirements
- Valid driving licence.
- A commitment of a year or more; not suitable for someone between employment and seeking full-time work during the week.
- Available on weekdays during normal office hours (this may change in future to include weekends).
- Willing to undertake long journeys arranged in advance; vans provided by RSPCA with a manual gearbox.
- Based in or around March, Cambridgeshire; van based at RSPCA Block Fen, Block Fen Drove, Wimblington, March PE15 0FB.
- Be able to lift animals if required; volunteers must be 18 or over; role does not involve direct animal handling.
What’s in it for you
- Meet new people and make new friends.
- Learn new skills to add to your CV.
- A great induction and training relevant to your role.
- Volunteer in a friendly environment at the heart of the local community.
- You’ll be making a meaningful difference to animal welfare.
- We reimburse reasonable travel expenses while volunteering.
How to apply and more information
Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees and to complete our online Health & Safety assessment before you can start volunteering. You will receive a copy of our volunteer drivers’ handbook. Volunteers must use the van provided for RSPCA purposes only and should not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving the vehicle. We are happy to reimburse any agreed out-of-pocket expenses you incur whilst volunteering. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your role, speak to a member of staff or the volunteer co-ordinator.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Volunteer RSPCA Van Driver (March, Cambridgeshire area) employer: RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
Contact Detail:
RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer RSPCA Van Driver (March, Cambridgeshire area)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the RSPCA's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to animal welfare will help you convey your passion during conversations with the Animal Logistics team.
✨Tip Number 2
Make sure you know the local area well, especially March and its surroundings. Being knowledgeable about the routes and locations of vets and animal centres can give you an edge in discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your availability clearly. Since the role requires a commitment of a year or more, being upfront about your schedule will show your dedication and reliability.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready for a chat with the Animal Logistics team after applying. Practising how to articulate your motivations for volunteering and your understanding of the responsibilities will help you make a great impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer RSPCA Van Driver (March, Cambridgeshire area)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Volunteer RSPCA Van Driver position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous driving experience, especially with manual vehicles, and any roles that involved teamwork or community service. Mention your commitment to animal welfare and any relevant training you've undertaken.
Prepare Your References: Since the application requires contact details for two referees, choose individuals who can vouch for your reliability and character. Inform them in advance so they are prepared to provide a reference when contacted.
Complete the Health & Safety Assessment: Before applying, ensure you are ready to complete the online Health & Safety assessment as part of the application process. Familiarise yourself with the guidelines to demonstrate your commitment to safety while volunteering.
How to prepare for a job interview at RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
✨Know Your Responsibilities
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Volunteer RSPCA Van Driver. Understand the importance of transporting animals safely and adhering to health and safety guidelines, as this will show your commitment to the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Driving Skills
Since the role involves driving a manual gearbox van, be prepared to discuss your driving experience. Highlight any relevant qualifications or experiences that showcase your ability to handle a vehicle responsibly.
✨Show Your Commitment
Emphasise your willingness to commit to the role for a year or more. This is crucial for the organisation, so be ready to explain why you are dedicated to volunteering and how you can fit this into your schedule.
✨Ask Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team. This not only shows your interest but also helps you understand the expectations and culture of the RSPCA, making you a more informed candidate.