Volunteering
Help us in the fight to save lives.
We are proud to be supported by over 150 volunteers from Kent, Surrey and Sussex who work with a number of different teams across the charity, both out in the communities and at our bases. Without the commitment and dedication of these volunteers, we can’t keep flying. Without them, we can’t save lives.
Volunteering with us will allow you to meet new people, help you gain new skills or engage in new experiences, but all will help to make a difference. Giving your time to Team KSS, means you will be joining a team of hard-working and passionate people who put the patient at the heart of everything we do.
If you are keen to know more about volunteering for KSS, please register your interest here and we will be in touch soon to let you know more about the volunteering opportunities available.
Contact our Volunteer Department today if you have any questions:
01634 471900
How can I support Air Ambulance Charity, Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) through volunteering?
Your efforts would directly contribute to our lifesaving service. Without our volunteers we can’t keep flying, without our volunteers we can’t save lives.
We have a variety of volunteer roles and opportunities throughout Kent, Surrey and Sussex, covering fundraising, running stalls at events, to holding collection buckets, giving talks in the community, delivery leaflets, driving and supporting office staff with administrative tasks.
What are the qualities needed to become a volunteer?
You need to be a friendly, outgoing person with a confident and approachable manner, along with good communication skills. Without the tireless and dedicated work that our volunteers put into events, talks, presentations, and many other areas of the charity’s work, we could not achieve what we do.
What age do I need to be a volunteer?
You need to be 18 to volunteer for the Air Ambulance Charity, Kent Surry Sussex (KSS). However, there is no upper limit, we have volunteers aged from 18 right up to 75+!
What will I get from volunteering?
You will gain experience and develop new skills knowing that you’re making a difference whilst supporting our fundraising activities. You will also have the opportunity to meet new people and make some great friends along the way and become an integral part of Team KSS.
Can I volunteer in my local area?
Yes. We have volunteering opportunities available across our region in Kent, Surrey and Sussex and we welcome volunteers who would like to represent us in their local communities.
Do you have roles suitable for all abilities?
We have roles suitable for everyone. KSS is committed to creating an equal, diverse, and truly inclusive culture. We welcome all applications, and we will work with you to find a role that suits you best.
Do I need to provide references?
Upon applying to become a volunteer we ask you to provide two references who have known you for 3 years or longer; are not a family member and are not involved with KSS. Your referees can be social references or employment references, the choice is yours.
Do I need to go through DBS checks to volunteer for you?
It depends on the role you undertake for KSS. Depending on your role, you may be required to undertake a Basic Criminal Record check. The charity will cover all costs associated with this.
How often can I volunteer?
We welcome all offers of help, the roles are completely flexible, whether you can spare time weekly, monthly, or a few times a year, there’s a volunteering opportunity for you! Activity is generally at its busiest during the summer months with the winter months being quieter.
What support and training will I be given?
All volunteers will receive an induction and training appropriate to your role, and you will learn about how KSS is run and the work we do before you start. We will also provide ongoing support to you during your time volunteering with us.
Are travel expenses paid?
KSS offers to reimburse travel expenses in line with our Volunteer Expense Claim Guidelines.
How long will the application process take?
This is mainly dependant on your references. We ask that you notify your referees prior to applying so that they are aware that someone from KSS will be in touch with them. However, we endeavour to get references returned to us within two weeks of initial contact although this does sometimes take a little longer. We aim to keep in contact with you throughout the application process.
Can I talk to you about a volunteering opportunity before I apply?
We are always happy to hear from people interested in getting involved. Give our volunteering team a call on 01634 471900.
How do I apply?
Please fill out the application form below
What are the steps to becoming a Volunteer?
- We have tried to make the application process as easy as possible, please apply via our portal on the KSS website using the Volunteer Application form. If you need support in completing this form, please do not hesitate to contact our volunteering team on 01634 471900.
- Our volunteer coordinator will contact the perspective volunteer to have an informal discussion. Following our catch up call we will request two references, this will help provide the charity with an independent perspective of the individual’s skills, reliability and possibly their attitude.
- Our volunteer coordinator will contact the prospective volunteer once again by phone or email to arrange an informal meeting.
- The prospective volunteer will be invited to an informal meeting either in person or via Teams. This is where we can get to know each other and two of our KSS team will explain the charity’s work and discuss the volunteer opportunities.
- Dependant on the role, a Basic Criminal Record (DBS) check may need to be undertaken. DBS checks help us to maintain a safe environment for all and is a key part of our safeguarding measures.
- Once the decision as to the suitability of the prospective volunteer has been made. Our volunteer coordinator will notify the volunteer of the decision either verbally or via email.
Arrangements will then be made for the successful volunteers to visit KSS and meet the team at an induction session. Training appropriate to the volunteer role maybe on the same day of the induction or at a mutually agreeable date.
