[ Volunteer Registration Application Form ]
[ Volunteer Registration Application Form .PDF Version ]

To register to become an OAB volunteer, download the form above and complete it fully. OAB will return incomplete forms. On the registration form we ask for two referees. As all of our clients are visually impaired and most are elderly, it is essential that we follow up these references. All new volunteers are also subject to a criminal record check from the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) at an Enhanced Level. OAB will meet the cost of CRB check. For further information on the Criminal Records Bureau, click here.

Once the references have been checked, your volunteer co-ordinator will arrange a partner for you as soon as possible. We try to match our partners by geographic location and compatibility. So we may be able to find you someone immediately or there may be a few weeks wait.

Once a suitable match has been identified, the volunteer co-ordinator will organise an introduction meeting. This will give you a chance to get to know each other better and plan the first meeting. This also gives you the opportunity to define the frequency and length of your visits and the type of tasks you are prepared to do.

Insurance and Health and Safety

OAB is insured for Employers and Third Party Liability and the benefits of these policies extend to volunteers whilst undertaking visits with their partner. The Health and Safety at Work Act extends to volunteers in the same way as employees and you should avoid unnecessary risks. Volunteers should ensure, where appropriate, that their own car insurance covers them for their volunteering, both in travelling to the client, and any possible trips with the client. This should be achieved by a single phone call, and at no extra cost.

[ Other relevant information on becoming a volunteer ]