At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive to support families visiting loved ones in prisons across Scotland.
- Company: Join Sacro, a dedicated organisation making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Mileage reimbursement at 50p per mile and gain valuable experience.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining experience in a Criminal Justice setting.
- Qualifications: Must be 21+, have a clean driving license, and own a car.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a commitment of at least one year.
Looking for a volunteering opportunity? See the latest Scotland wide volunteering opportunities at Volunteer Scotland. We also regularly update our website with the latest opportunities within West Lothian.
Enjoy driving? Want experience in a Criminal Justice setting? Or perhaps you already have some experience and want to contribute in another way… Sacro’s Travel Service in Edinburgh is recruiting for more volunteer drivers.
The Travel Service aims to provide a regular transport service to many of Scotland’s prisons and the State Hospital at Carstairs. The service is part of Sacro’s Throughcare Service enabling prisoners to maintain important contact with their families and friends which research has shown helps to reduce reoffending. We pick up our registered passengers from their home address and take them to their arranged visit before returning them home again completely free of charge.
Sacro’s work could not be successfully conducted without the dedication and skill of its volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with us, we would ask you to be able to commit to volunteering for at least a year and be regularly available. We reimburse our volunteer drivers for their mileage at a rate of 50p per mile.
Experience requiredDrivers should be friendly, non-judgemental and respectful of confidentiality, assertive, punctual and organised. It is desirable for the volunteer to have experience of driving in the central belt but this is not essential – we pick up passengers from throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians with onward visits to most prison estates in the central belt as well as the State Hospital.
Travel expensesWe reimburse mileage at 50p per mile.
SupportTraining would be discussed and arranged on appointment.
TasterTo be discussed with the Travel Service Coordinator.
RestrictionsMinimum age: 21. Applicants must have their own car, a full, clean driver’s license and full insurance. They should also ensure that their car has a current MOT and is regularly serviced. Membership of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme (PVG) would be required.
AvailabilityFlexible - we just ask that you commit to the role for at least a year and be regularly available. Volunteers (aged 21-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Travel Service - Volunteer Drivers employer: Voluntary Sector Gateway
Contact Detail:
Voluntary Sector Gateway Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Travel Service - Volunteer Drivers
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Sacro and their mission. Understanding their values will help you connect better during any conversations or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past volunteers through social media or local community groups. They can give you insider tips on what it’s really like to volunteer with Sacro.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you. Regularly check our website for new volunteering roles and apply as soon as you see something that fits your skills and interests.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with someone from Sacro, let them know why you want to volunteer. Your enthusiasm can make a big difference in how they see you as a candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Travel Service - Volunteer Drivers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Volunteering: When writing your application, let us know why you're interested in volunteering with Sacro’s Travel Service. Share your enthusiasm for helping others and how you believe this role can make a difference.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you haven't driven in a criminal justice setting before, mention any driving experience or volunteer work you've done. We want to see how your skills can contribute to our mission!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us understand your commitment and suitability for the role without any confusion.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get back to you quickly about the next steps in the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Voluntary Sector Gateway
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand what being a volunteer driver entails. Familiarise yourself with Sacro’s mission and how your role contributes to their goals. This will help you articulate why you want to be part of their team.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your driving experience and any relevant skills that make you a great fit for this role. Be ready to discuss your punctuality, organisation, and how you handle sensitive situations with respect and confidentiality.
✨Be Personable
As a volunteer driver, you'll be interacting with passengers who may be going through tough times. Show your friendly and non-judgemental nature during the interview. Practice active listening and demonstrate empathy in your responses.
✨Ask Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the training process. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand what will be expected of you as a volunteer driver.