Once we have received your application, you will then follow our 10-stage recruitment and onboarding process as illustrated below. Whilst the recruitment process may appear lengthy, it is important to understand that we are required to complete full due diligence on all applicants, which can take some time. This is a requirement due to the nature of the work we undertake and as such, in addition to the initial application we are required to complete reference, identification and DBS checks, which allows us to make safer recruitment decisions.
Stage 1:
Informal interview
You will be contacted by our Volunteer Coordinator to arrange a date and time to have an informal chat. This interview is undertaken via video calling (zoom) or telephone. We will go through your application and ask some additional questions. It is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have.
Stage 2:
Taster workshop
You will be invited to attend one of the weekly workshops on a shadow/observation basis. All Volunteers will be required to attend a workshop regardless of the role you've applied for as this provides an introduction to what Spectrum is about. Once you have attended a workshop, you will be contacted to get feedback on how you felt after the session, and to give you an opportunity to ask any questions.
Stage 3:
Reference check
As part of your initial application, you will be asked to provide details of two referees to allow us to undertake reference checks. We will contact your nominated referees to provide a character reference and we will inform you once we have completed this stage.
Stage 4:
Identification Verification and Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check
We are required to ask for information on unspent criminal convictions and complete a DBS check as part of the recruitment process. This is due to the nature of the work in which we undertake and in some circumstances, we may need to explore some information further. This does not mean that your application will automatically be withdrawn if you declare an unspent conviction.
We will ask you to complete an online Disclosure and Barring (DBS) application form or if on the update service, we will complete an online check. An identification and address verification will also be completed, and you will be asked to provide documents to support this check.
Stage 5:
Induction
You will be invited to attend and complete pre-appointment volunteer induction training, where you will learn more about Spectrum Community Arts and the role(s) you have applied for. This induction will take place via video conferencing (Zoom) with the Volunteer Coordinator. Prior to the induction you will be asked to complete and submit some documents, which will be reviewed and discussed during the induction. This will includes providing emergency contact details and completing a Medical Declaration form.
Stage 6:
Confirmation of probationary appointment
Once your DBS check has been completed and satisfied you will be given confirmation of your volunteer probationary appointment with Spectrum Community Arts. Your probationary period will be in place for 6 months. At this stage you will be sent your 'Volunteer Agreement' to sign and return.
Stage 7:
Mandatory Training
You will be booked onto any mandatory training required for your role, which you should complete during your 6-month probationary period. Training requirements for your role will be discussed during your Induction.
Stage 8:
3-month Review
The Volunteer Coordinator will conduct a 3-month review with you to see how everything is going, to discuss your progress and to make sure you're happy with your volunteering journey so far. This will also be an opportunity for us to make sure we are providing you with everything you need.
Stage 9:
6-month Review
The Volunteer Coordinator will conduct a 6-month review with you to discuss your progress and to complete your 6 month probationary period to a formal appointment as a volunteer
Stage 10:
Formal Appointment
Once you have successfully completed your 6-month probationary period you will be formally appointed to a 'full' volunteer. At this stage we will set a date for your Annual Appraisal.
If you would like further information on the recruitment and onboarding process please contact volunteer@spectrumca.co.uk