Recovery Service - West Lothian
Volunteer with us in West Lothian
We want your volunteering experience to be as rewarding and positive as possible. That's why we provide training, support and regular supervision to help you feel confident and thrive in your role.
We welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life and value the unique experiences, skills and perspectives that every volunteer brings.
Whether you're looking to gain experience for a future career; give your time to a cause you care about; use your skills to make a difference; or inspire others through your own journey; there's a place for you at Change Grow Live.
A history of alcohol or substance use, or a criminal conviction, is not a barrier to volunteering with us. In fact, many of our volunteers have lived experience of these matters, and their insight, empathy and understanding are an invaluable part of the support we provide.
What you'll get back
As a volunteer, you can:
- Connect with others: Meet new people, build friendships, and grow your confidence and social skills.
- Boost your wellbeing: Volunteering can reduce stress, improve your wellbeing, keep you mentally active and provide a real sense of purpose.
- Support your career: Gain valuable skills and experience, strengthen your CV and explore future career opportunities.
- Have fun and feel fulfilled: Discover new interests, develop your strengths and be part of a supportive team.
Watch our volunteer video diaries.
Volunteering roles
We offer a range of roles, including recovery support, group work, meet and greet, healthcare support and administration. Whether you enjoy working directly with people or supporting behind the scenes, there are lots of ways you can make a positive difference.
View our volunteering vacancies
Our current opportunities are listed on our volunteer recruitment page. If there aren't any vacancies right now, please check back soon, as new roles are added throughout the year.
To find out more about volunteering within our service, please email [email protected]
The application process
Because we work with vulnerable people, we take great care to make sure our volunteers are the right fit, safely recruited and well prepared.
To get started, you'll complete a short application form telling us a little about yourself and the skills, qualities and experience you could bring. Please tell us as much as you can about why you'd like to volunteer and what makes you a great fit.
Most of our volunteer opportunities don't require any specific qualifications, and we'll provide all the training and support you need to succeed.
If your application is successful, we'll invite you to a values-based conversation.
This is a relaxed, informal conversation where we'll get to know you better, learn about what has motivated you to volunteer, and explore how your values and experiences align with the role and our organisation.
It's also an opportunity for you to ask questions and find out more about volunteering with Change Grow Live.
We want this to be a chance for you to shine, so we'll do our best to create a welcoming environment where you feel comfortable sharing your experiences and strengths.
Sometimes a role isn't quite the right fit. If that happens, we'll aim to provide feedback and encourage you to apply for other volunteering opportunities with Change Grow Live and/or other external volunteer opportunities.
Pre-recruitment checks
Some of our volunteer roles involve working with vulnerable people, so a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required. This will be noted in the role description.
If you're applying for a role that requires a DBS check, you'll need to provide valid ID, such as a passport, driving licence or birth certificate, as well as a document confirming your current address.
Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent you from volunteering with us.
If a DBS check identifies a criminal record, we will have an open and non-judgmental conversation with you and carry out a safer recruitment risk assessment. This helps us make a fair and informed decision based on your individual circumstances and the role you are applying for.
Induction and training
The onboarding process can take up to three months, particularly if the role requires a DBS check.
During this time, you'll complete a structured induction and training plan, including a Change Grow Live induction, professional boundaries, and drug and alcohol awareness, so you'll feel confident and ready to make a positive difference from day one.
You'll be matched with a member of the team who will supervise and support you throughout your volunteering journey. They'll meet with you regularly to celebrate your successes, help you overcome any challenges and support your ongoing development.
You'll be able to access role-specific learning, including accredited certificates, and work with your supervisor to create a personal development plan.
Expenses
We don't want volunteering to leave you out of pocket. Volunteers can claim reasonable travel expenses between home and their volunteering location, as well as lunch expenses for longer shifts.
Time commitment
Most of our volunteer roles offer flexible hours to fit around your availability, alongside the needs of the service and the people we support.
Where a role has specific time commitments, these will be explained in the role description.
Benefits of volunteering with us
As a volunteer, you can access a range of benefits, including:
- Blue Light Card: Offers thousands of discounts and savings.
- Boost: A range of offers and resources, including gym discounts, exercise and mindfulness classes, and financial wellbeing tips.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Confidential support and advice for you and your family across areas including mental health, home life, relationships, legal matters and finances.
Celebrating our volunteers
Each year, we take part in Volunteers' Week to celebrate the incredible difference our volunteers make to the people and communities we support.