Question 1

Who can volunteer with Barnsley Pride?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who wants to get involved, meet people and help make Pride happen can apply. We welcome volunteers from across our community and beyond.

Question 2

Do I need to be LGBTQ+ to volunteer?

Accepted Answer

No. You don't need to be LGBTQ+ to volunteer. We welcome anyone who supports our values and wants to help create a safe, inclusive and welcoming Pride for everyone.

Question 3

How old do I need to be to volunteer?

Accepted Answer

Age requirements can vary depending on the role. Some roles may be available to younger volunteers with appropriate safeguarding arrangements, while certain responsibilities may require volunteers to be 18 or over.

Question 4

Do I need previous volunteering experience?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or completely new to it, we'll provide the information and guidance you need.

Question 5

What kind of volunteer roles are available?

Accepted Answer

There are lots of ways to get involved, including event support, stewarding, information points, welcoming visitors, assisting with activities, supporting performers and helping behind the scenes.

Question 6

Can I volunteer with my friends?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Volunteering with a mate can make the experience even more enjoyable. Just let us know who you'd like to volunteer alongside where possible.

Question 7

Can I volunteer as part of a group or organisation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Community groups, businesses, schools, colleges and organisations may be able to volunteer together. Please mention this on your application.

Question 8

Do I have to volunteer for the whole day?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Available shifts and volunteering requirements will be explained during the application process. We'll try to accommodate your availability where we can.

Question 9

Can I choose what role I volunteer for?

Accepted Answer

You can tell us which roles you're interested in, but volunteer positions are allocated according to event requirements, skills, availability and safeguarding considerations.

Question 10

Can I volunteer if I have accessibility requirements?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please tell us about any accessibility requirements when applying so we can discuss reasonable arrangements and help make volunteering accessible to you.

Question 11

Will I receive training?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Depending on your role, you'll receive relevant information, guidance or training before taking up your volunteer duties.

Question 12

Will I have a volunteer briefing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Volunteers will receive information about the event, their responsibilities, emergency procedures, safeguarding, who to contact and what to do if something goes wrong.

Question 13

Do I need a DBS check?

Accepted Answer

Some roles may require additional safeguarding checks, particularly where the role involves specific responsibilities or working with children or vulnerable people. We'll let you know if a DBS check is required.

Question 14

Will I be given a volunteer ID or lanyard?

Accepted Answer

Yes, where appropriate, you'll receive identification so visitors, staff and other volunteers can recognise you as part of the Barnsley Pride team.

Question 15

Will I get food and drinks while volunteering?

Accepted Answer

We'll provide information about refreshment arrangements to confirmed volunteers. Please let us know about any dietary requirements when requested.

Question 16

Will my travel expenses be covered?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, we cannot cover any travel expenses.

Question 17

Can I volunteer if I've never attended Barnsley Pride before?

Accepted Answer

Of course! You don't need to have attended Pride before. You can jump straight in and become part of the team.

Question 18

Can I volunteer if I have a full-time job or study?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We understand that people have work, school, college, university and other commitments. Let us know when you're available and we'll see where you can fit in. Please be sure to have full availability the day prior and on the day of the annual Barnsley Pride event.

Question 19

Can I volunteer at other Barnsley Pride events during the year?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Barnsley Pride is about more than one day. There may be opportunities to support events, workshops and community activities throughout the year.

Question 20

What happens after I submit my application?

Accepted Answer

We'll review your application and contact you with the next steps. If you're successful, you'll receive further information about your role, availability, training and the event.

Question 21

Does submitting an application guarantee me a volunteer place?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. We may receive more applications than we have places available, and some roles have specific requirements. We'll confirm your place once your application has been reviewed.

Question 22

Can I change my availability after applying?

Accepted Answer

Yes — just let us know as soon as possible. We understand that plans can change.

Question 23

What happens if I can't make it on the day?

Accepted Answer

Please contact the Barnsley Pride team as soon as possible. Last-minute cancellations can make things tricky, so the earlier you tell us, the better.

Question 24

Will I be expected to deal with difficult situations?

Accepted Answer

Some volunteer roles may involve supporting visitors who are upset, lost or need assistance. You'll receive guidance on what to do and who to contact. You won't be expected to deal with serious incidents on your own.

Question 25

What if I don't feel comfortable doing something?

Accepted Answer

Speak to your team leader or a member of the Barnsley Pride team. Your safety and wellbeing are important, and you should never feel pressured to handle a situation you're not comfortable with.

Question 26

Will I be able to take breaks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Volunteers need breaks too! Your shift arrangements will include appropriate opportunities to rest and take a breather.

Question 27

Can I take photographs while volunteering?

Accepted Answer

Photography may be permitted in some circumstances, but volunteers must follow Barnsley Pride's photography, privacy and safeguarding guidance. Never photograph someone who has asked not to be photographed.

Question 28

Can I promote my own business or organisation while volunteering?

Accepted Answer

Volunteering is about supporting Barnsley Pride and our visitors. Any personal or organisational promotion should be agreed with the team beforehand.

Question 29

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

We'll provide guidance before the event. Generally, volunteers should wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for being on their feet and outdoors.

Question 30

Is volunteering at Barnsley Pride paid?

Accepted Answer

Barnsley Pride volunteer roles are voluntary positions and are not normally paid.

Question 31

Will I receive a reference for volunteering?

Accepted Answer

Where appropriate, we may be able to provide confirmation of your volunteering or a reference based on your involvement and responsibilities.

Question 32

Can volunteering help me gain experience?

Accepted Answer

Definitely. Volunteering can provide valuable experience in areas such as events, communications, customer service, teamwork, community engagement and event operations.

Question 33

What if I have a question that isn't answered here?

Accepted Answer

No worries! Get in touch with the Barnsley Pride team and we'll be happy to help.

Question 34

Fancy joining the team?

Accepted Answer

Whether you're here to help, organise, welcome, support or just generally get stuck in — there's a place for you at Barnsley Pride. Because Pride doesn't happen by magic… although our volunteers sometimes make it look that way!

GET INVOLVED

ON-THE-DAY VOLUNTEER FAQ'S