Job seekers & Volunteers - Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  How soon can I start?

A:  we will issue a start date when we have received 2 satisfactory references and have completed an enhanced CRB check.

Q:   How long does a CRB check take?

A:  There is no set time, it can range from 28 hours to 6 months.  Cranstoun has no control as to the time it takes to complete these.

Q:  How can I apply for a position?

A:  You can down load an application form from our website, complete it and send it by email to Laura at lwilson@cranstoun.org.uk

Q:  I'm applying for a volunteer / relief worker role in North London, how often to interviews take place?

A:  Our London north services attract a large amount of interest and therefore interview will take place on a bi-monthly basis. Once your application is received we will log it, send for short listing and contact you with the outcome. You may then be invited to interview.

Q: How often do you recruit volunteers and relief staff?

A: North London conducts interviews for volunteer & relief staff every 2 - 3 months. Other services recruit on a rolling basis, subject to needs.

Q: How much do relief workers get paid?

A: Regular relief staff get paid £10 per hour. Nurse team members get paid £15.58 per hour for week days, £16.10 per hour at the weekend and £17.68 per hour for night shifts. Social Care Team Members get paid £11.52 per hour for week days, £11.95 per hour for weekends and £13.11 per hour for nights.

Q: I have convictions and/or cautions. Will that affect my application?

A: There is a section on the application that requires you to fully disclose any such details. Please note down all such cautions / convictions. Cases are then looked at on an individual basis.

Q: Can I send in my CV?

A: No. We do not accept CVs. Please use the application form provided.

Q: How many hours will I be expected to work as a volunteer?

A: We expect volunteers to be able to commit to volunteering for a regular number of hours per week and to be able to commit for an initial specified period of time (usually 3 to 6 months minimum). Volunteer hours are flexible depending on the individual's availability.

Q: What training do you offer for volunteers?

A: All volunteers will attend Cranstoun's general induction with the organisation. Locally volunteers will be orientated with the nature and operation of the project, for which the volunteer has been recruited, and the purposes and requirements of the volunteer's role within that project. Volunteers will receive specific training to provide them with the information and skills necessary to perform their volunteer assignment. The timing and methods for delivery of such training should be appropriate to the complexity and demands of the position and the capabilities of the volunteer. In addition, they will attend Core Competency programme, Diversity, Equality and Health and Safety Training. Volunteers should attempt to improve their levels of skills during their volunteer placement. Continuing development may include additional information on performance of their current volunteer assignment as well as the NVQ Level 2 Health and Social Care, subject to funding being made available.