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Who do we look for?
As a FAB volunteer you will be at the heart of the holidays providing mentoring support, encouragement or just a sympathetic ear. Don’t worry we will train and support you throughout the experience. We are looking for people from all military ranks, backgrounds and experience, Defence Civilians and Veterans to become volunteers. You do not need any previous experience to become a volunteer. We are ultimately looking for good listeners, people with enthusiasm for the charity, and those with a willingness to be a friend or mentor to our bereaved families. Throughout the camps you will be supported by a bereavement support worker (BSW) who is trained in bereavement support. You will also be surrounded by experienced volunteers who return year after year.
Training
All volunteers, both new and returning, MUST attend training before every camp. This is mandated, and if you are not able to attend the training session, sadly we will not be able to accept your application for this year. This is a great opportunity to meet old and new volunteers and really understand what the camps are all about.
The training dates for 2025 are confirmed as 14 to 16 May 2025 at RAF Cranwell.
Volunteering Process
Register your interest
You can do this any time of the year, noting that applications usually open in January for camps in July/August of that year. Once registered, you will be on our mailing list and we will let you know when applications open.
Complete an application form
The form is only available when applications are open for the year - usually January to April.
Interview
The Volunteer lead will contact you and arrange for you to attend a mandatory virtual, but informal interview.
Training
Following the interview process and successful selection for attendance on the training, all volunteers will be required to undertake the Bereavement Awareness Support course. Accommodation is provided free of charge, however there are minimal food charges due to using a military location. Claims for Motor Mileage Allowance (MMA) are allowed.
All new volunteers for any FAB Camps must have attended both an interview and the training and be able to attend one of the FAB Camps for that year. Camp dates can be found on the Camps page (these are usually announced early in the new year). We will confirm whether you have been successful after each stage of the process. If you have been successful at the training, we will confirm immediately which camp you will be on.
Returning Volunteers
All returning volunteers must attend training every year to remain current and learn about any changes in policy, as well as reconnecting or connecting with other volunteers.
Register your interest
Once registered, you will be on our mailing list and we will let you know when applications open.
Complete an application form
Once applications open, you will be asked to complete an application form (the form is only available when applications are open for the year - usually February to April).
Training
(as per ‘New Volunteers’ – see above). All returning volunteers must update their training every year.
Additional Information
DBS checks
All applicants must be in possession of a valid in-date Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) or Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check to cover the period of the camp and specifically for FAB. Further advice can be given at interview. FAB will pay the cost of the DBS check if required. Previous FAB DBS/PVG checks will be valid for three (3) years.
Safeguarding training
All volunteers must complete online Safeguarding training. Serving personnel and Defence Civilians can use the Defence Learning Environment (DLE) portal which is free. All others are to use the NSPCC online course; FAB will refund this cost on production of the receipt. We will provide you with details during the application process.
Costs
FAB recognises the time that volunteers are already giving to supporting FAB and its families. Therefore, to ensure that volunteers are not financially disadvantaged they are allowed to reclaim the Motor Mileage Allowance (MMA) associated with their attendance at training and the camps. Food and accommodation on the camps is provided in full, and accommodation only during the training. Help can be provided where necessary to please do not let anything associated with cost be a reason not to volunteer for FAB! Please contact volunteer lead if this is the case and this will be dealt with sensitively.
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