At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive animals and supplies to help pets in need across Hertfordshire.
- Company: Join Blue Cross, a charity dedicated to animal welfare since 1897.
- Benefits: Flexible volunteering, skill development, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Commit a few hours weekly and enjoy a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team helping sick and homeless pets find care and homes.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence, customer service skills, and experience with pets.
Do you have experience of handling dogs, cats and small pets? Do you love being on the road? Are you interested in playing a key role in helping pets in need? With your driving, customer service and team working skills, you could become part of the transport team transferring animals and supplies between our animal hospitals and rehoming centres, and foster carers.
Why we want you
Sick, injured and homeless pets have relied on Blue Cross for help since 1897. Each year, thousands of dogs, cats, small pets and horses turn to the charity’s animal hospitals, clinics and rehoming services for treatment and support. Our team of volunteer drivers help ensure the smooth running of our services. Your driving skills will help pets find new homes more quickly, or ensure they receive the care and equipment they need promptly. We would love you to join us and help us help more pets in need.
What you will be doing
- Driving a Blue Cross van or your own car
- Transporting animals and supplies between centres and hospitals, foster homes and the vets
- Moving animals in and out of the vehicle
- Completing necessary transfer paperwork
- Supporting team with transfer protocols e.g. transfer tags
The skills you need
- Full UK driving licence and comprehensive driving insurance
- Excellent customer service skills
- Good team working skills
- Experience of handling dogs, cats and small pets
- Organisational skills and good attention to detail
- Regular commitment and reliability
- A confidential approach
- Access to use of computer equipment
- Computer literacy and experience using web-based services and Microsoft Office e.g. Outlook and Word
- Experience of using/Willingness to learn how to use video technology e.g. Microsoft Teams
- Experience of using/Willingness to learn how to use databases
What's in it for you
- You’ll be joining a team of people passionate about animal welfare
- You’ll join a team of great likeminded people
- You’ll have direct involvement with assisting pets that come into our care
- A flexible volunteer role
- You’ll have the opportunity to develop skills in multiple areas, or become a specialist in specific areas
We ask that you can commit to a few hours a week and have access to a laptop/desktop/tablet and a good internet connection. Any vehicle used for the transport of animals must be up to date with MOT, vehicle maintenance and insurance. You need to be 18 or over for this role. Blue Cross holds inclusion as a core organisational value. We positively encourage applications from eligible volunteers regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender status, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity. We actively embrace our differences and know that it is our differences that make us unique. You are very welcome at Blue Cross, without the need to hide any part of who you are.
Volunteer Driver (Hertfordshire Centre - week days or weekends) employer: The Blue Cross
At Blue Cross, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to animal welfare and community service. Our volunteer drivers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of our services, all while working alongside a passionate team that shares a love for pets. With flexible volunteering opportunities and the chance to develop valuable skills, you will find a rewarding experience that makes a real difference in the lives of animals in need.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Driver (Hertfordshire Centre - week days or weekends)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Blue Cross and their mission. When you understand their values and goals, you can tailor your conversations to show how your skills align with their needs.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current volunteers or staff on social media. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for standing out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! If you're invited for an interview, rehearse common questions related to driving and animal handling. Show off your customer service skills and teamwork experience to impress them.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and helping pets in need.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Driver (Hertfordshire Centre - week days or weekends)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animals:When writing your application, let your love for pets shine through! Share any experiences you've had with dogs, cats, or small pets to show us why you're the perfect fit for this role.
Highlight Your Driving Skills:Make sure to mention your driving experience and any relevant qualifications. We want to know that you’re comfortable on the road and can handle transporting our furry friends safely.
Emphasise Teamwork and Customer Service:Since this role involves working closely with others, highlight your teamwork skills and any customer service experience. We value good communication and collaboration in our transport team!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you started on this rewarding journey with Blue Cross.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Blue Cross
✨Know Your Stuff About Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of handling dogs, cats, and small pets. Be ready to share any relevant experiences you've had with animals during the interview. This will show your passion for animal welfare and your ability to handle them safely.
✨Show Off Your Driving Skills
Since this role involves driving, be prepared to discuss your driving experience. Highlight your full UK driving licence and any previous roles where you’ve transported animals or goods. Mention your reliability and commitment to safe driving practices.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This position requires excellent teamwork skills. Think of examples where you’ve successfully worked in a team, especially in challenging situations. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and support your colleagues, as this is crucial for the transport team.
✨Be Organised and Detail-Oriented
The role involves completing transfer paperwork and following protocols. Prepare to discuss how you stay organised and pay attention to detail in your work. You might want to mention any tools or methods you use to keep track of tasks and ensure everything runs smoothly.
