VOLUNTEER: JOIN OUR TEAM

HAVE YOU GOT WHAT IT TAKES?

We have set a very high bar for all volunteer candidates such is the sensitivity and complexity of our work. We operate in a highly charged and fluid environment alongside the emergency services where you will be absolutely tested to the limit whilst service users will be counting on you to make the right decisions at the right time. We cannot and will not compromise their safety or well-being therefore only candidates that meet strict entry requirements will be considered for acceptance into the organisation.

You will be female, of a caring and compassionate nature and be willing to operate in testing conditions in the service of others. You will have no criminal record (spent or unspent) relating to crimes of a violent or sexual nature. You will agree to submit to extensive vetting, referencing and a DBS (disclosure and barring service) check.

The Cheltenham Guardians team is a close-knit family and we will maintain this dynamic going forward. If you are not a team player you cannot become a Cheltenham Guardian. It's not just who you are on shift that is of interest to us, it's who you are outside of the organisation that is important too.

FITNESS

Our engagement team may walk up to 15 miles in a single shift in all weather conditions. You will be involved in lifting and moving incapacitated females. It is crucial that you have the strength and the stamina to endure a testing shift. If you do not think you are fit enough to undertake frontline work you may wish to consider volunteering at the Nightcare Hub.

WARNING

Cheltenham Guardians have been first responders to a murder, life threatening and life changing violent assaults, sexual assaults and domestic violence. Please do consider this before applying.

So you still want to become a Cheltenham Guardian?

Please find below the route we take from first contact to becoming a Guardian safeguarding officer volunteer.

First face-to-face interview
Invite to observe the team on duty
Second face-to-face interview
Application to join the organisation
Vetting commences including DBS check and references
Conditional invite to join the organisation as a probationary volunteer

Should you fail any of the requirements at any stage the recruitment process will be terminated and you will not be eligible to reapply for at least 12 months. If your DBS check or references are unsuitable the recruitment process will be terminated and you will not be eligible to reapply for at least 24 months. We reserve the right to reject any application at any time and for any reason.

As a Cheltenham Guardian applicant you will understand that:

You will commit to at least one shift every six weeks
You will be required to sign a non-disclosure and confidentiality agreement
You will be physically fit
You will be willing to work in adverse weather conditions
We run TOWARDS danger and NEVER away from it
If vomit and blood isn't your thing you've probably made a mistake
If you are easily offended you'll not enjoy working with us
At times you will be working in adverse weather conditions without shelter
You will deal with challenging and distressing incidents regularly
If you are the very best of the very best there is a fair chance your application will be successful
Successful candidates will be required to pay for their own uniform. All uniform components (including seasonal variations) cost £330. We can help you crowdfund for this so don't panic! We have a tried and tested process that works.
Your image may be used for educational or promotional purposes

Please email contact@cheltenhamguardians.org with a brief introduction and let us know why you would like to join our team.

We look forward to hearing from you!