An advertised volunteer schedule should be compared with both where the work will be done and what the role requires. NCVO says volunteer role descriptions should state the location and hours, while the level of time commitment needed is a factor when reviewing a role. If any of these details are missing or unclear, the advertised schedule is not a complete basis for deciding whether the role is suitable.
Compare the schedule with the work
| Element | What to check |
|---|---|
| Location | Does the advertised location match where the work is expected to be performed? |
| Hours | Do the advertised hours reflect when the work is expected to take place? |
| Work involved | What tasks must be completed, and is all of that work clearly accounted for in the schedule? |
| Time commitment | Is the level of time commitment needed clear enough for the reader to assess? |
The distinction matters because a schedule describes when and where participation is advertised to occur, while the work involved determines what the reader must actually do. A role should not be treated as a low-commitment opportunity solely because its advertised hours appear limited.
Questions to ask before committing
Direct confirmation is still needed on four points:
- Where will the work be performed?
- Which hours are required?
- What work is expected, including anything not clearly covered by the advertised hours?
- What level of time commitment does the role need?
The relevant NCVO guidance identifies review criteria; it does not establish that a particular role will suit a particular reader. If the organisation has not provided enough information to answer these questions, the reader should treat the time commitment as unconfirmed rather than assume it is flexible or minimal.