Volunteer at 1435
Frequently asked questions
We are delighted that you’re interested in becoming a Volunteer at 1435.
Here you will find answers to our frequently asked questions around volunteering, including how to apply, getting started, expense claiming & other important things!
If you find your question hasn’t been answered below, please get in touch. We’re always happy to hear from you!
Unsure on which volunteer role to apply for?
These are friendly, informal drop-in sessions with our volunteer coordinator, where you can learn more about our volunteering opportunities, and help you to find the perfect role for you, whether that is at 1435, or within the local community.
Who can volunteer?
We welcome applications from people with a broad range of skills, experience and availability to join our team.
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
Our regular volunteering roles are open to individuals aged 16 and over. Parent consent form will be required to be completed for all volunteers under 18 years of age.
How do I apply?
Please complete our volunteering enquiry form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Will I be interviewed?
All roles involve an informal meeting/group recruitment session, giving you the chance to learn more about 1435 and the volunteering opportunity, and for us to learn more about you, and your motivations to volunteer with us. The recruitment process may vary depending on the role.
Will references be required?
Yes. Two written character references will be requested prior to confirming volunteering position.
Can I claim travel expenses?
Yes. We believe volunteers should not be out of pocket for their volunteering; therefore, we will reimburse out of pocket expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering up to £6 per day. Please speak to our volunteer coordinator for further information. 
What skills do I need to volunteer?
This depends on the role. Some opportunities require specific skills, while others simply ask for enthusiasm, commitment and a welcoming nature. All requirements will be clearly outlined in the volunteering role profile.
What if I don’t enjoy my volunteer role?
That’s absolutely fine! If your role isn’t the right fit, just let us know. We’ll be happy to explore alternative opportunities that might suit you better or point you in the right direction to other external volunteering opportunities in Chesterfield.
Do you offer training?
Absolutely. We want you to enjoy and feel confident in your volunteer role and would not want you to feel nervous or unprepared. Therefore, all volunteers receive:
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A full induction
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Required to complete Volunteer Learning (Safeguarding, Equality & diversity, Health & safety, GDPR & Data protection & fire safety) / or option to attend Face to face training – ‘Volunteer passport’– an accredited Level 1 National Open College Network (nocn) course.
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Role-specific training
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Shadowing
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Opportunities to learn more about the roles within Cultural services
Can I volunteer in more than one role at a time?
Absolutely! We want you to be able to follow your interests and ability to share your skills to have a meaningful experience at 1435.
Do volunteers have to commit to a certain number of hours/days?
No. Ideally, we’d love our volunteers to commit 4-5 hours per week if able, however we understand that this isn’t always possible, and you may only be able to commit to once a fortnight or once per month. We offer a variety of shift times/days, making it a flexible volunteering opportunity. Please discuss this with our Volunteer Coordinator.
What will I gain from volunteering?
Volunteering can be a great resource for many people, for lots of different reasons. Volunteering can help you make friends and feel connected to the community, enabling you to share time with likeminded people with shared interests. It can help you gain new skills, improve confidence, and boost CVs. Can give you a sense of purpose and fulfilment, whilst sharing your skills/talents with others. Volunteering can be very rewarding for all involved.
What does the Volunteer journey look like from now until the opening of the building?
We appreciate that once onboarded there is still some time to go before the opening of the building. Over the coming months to help you to feel part of the team, and to get to know everyone, there will be opportunities:
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to shadow shows at the Winding Wheel during June/July/October.
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to promote volunteering and 1435 at community events and stalls
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for engagement and learning, in the theatre and museum during the summer months
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to help support the preparation of the building ready for opening, and
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to meet and get to know your fellow volunteers.
