Volunteering and the law
Will volunteering affect my benefits?
Not at all. Our volunteers are not paid but are entitled to be reimbursed for their travel whilst volunteering for The Stroke Association.
If you are claiming Job Seekers Allowance you can volunteer as long as you remain available for work and are actively looking for paid employment.
If you are claiming Income Support/Disability Living Allowance you can volunteer.
If you receive Incapacity Benefit, you can volunteer for as long as you want. Previously, there was a rule stating that you could only volunteer for 16 hours a week. This is no longer the case and volunteering for The Stroke Association does not affect your 'permitted work'.
Can I volunteer if I am seeking asylum?
Yes.
Since April 2000, people seeking asylum are allowed to volunteer. However, you are not allowed to engage in paid work for The Stroke Association. You will need to undergo a CRB check for many of our volunteer roles.
