Volunteer with The Dome and help change young lives
BE PART OF SOMETHING LIFE-CHANGING
At The Dome Youth Zone, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths, explore new interests and realise their potential. Our volunteers will play a vital role in making that happen.
Whether you’re sharing a skill, supporting an activity, welcoming young people through our doors, helping at events, or simply taking the time to listen and have a meaningful conversation. Your time can make a lasting difference.
You don’t need a background in youth work to get involved. Sometimes the biggest impact comes from the simplest things: encouraging a young person to try something new, celebrating their achievements, or being someone they can talk to.
From supporting sport and fitness sessions to music, arts, cooking, employability, wellbeing and beyond, there are so many ways to get involved. We’re looking for people from all backgrounds, with different experiences, skills and interests, who share our ambition to help young people thrive.
A PLACE FOR EVERYONE
Our volunteers come from all walks of life. If you’re over 18, whether you’re retired, studying, looking to build experience, changing careers, or simply want to give something back to your community, there is a place for you at The Dome.
You could support:
- Sport and coaching sessions
- Arts, crafts, music and creative activities
- Cooking and hospitality
- Employability and skills development
- Wellbeing activities
- Events and community activities
- Welcoming and supporting young people across The Dome
- Fundraising
We’ll provide the support, training and guidance you need to feel confident in your role. You’ll be part of a team that shares knowledge, celebrates successes and puts young people first.
WHY VOLUNTEER AT THE DOME?
Volunteering isn’t just about what you give. It’s about what you gain, too. By joining The Dome team, you can:
TOGETHER, WE CAN HELP YOUNG PEOPLE SHINE
The Dome will be more than a building. It will be a place where young people feel they belong, where they can try new things, meet positive role models and discover what they’re capable of. Our volunteers will help make that happen.
Join The Dome volunteer team and help shape brighter futures for young people in Crewe.
APPLYING & GETTING STARTED
How do I become a volunteer?
The Dome Youth Zone is opening in Winter 2026, and we are now taking applications for volunteers! If you’d like to register your interest, please click the link above or email us at volunteer@thedomeyouthzone.org.
Do I need specific skills or experience to volunteer?
No prior experience is necessary for most roles! We’re primarily looking for people who are passionate about supporting young people. If a specific role requires a qualification or skill, this will be clearly stated in the role description. We welcome first-time volunteers and will support you every step of the way.
How old do I need to be?
All volunteers must be at least 18 years old.
Will I need to attend an interview?
Yes. Our recruitment process includes an informal, 45-minute chat with our Volunteer Coordinator. It’s a chance for us to get to know you, discuss your interests, and answer any questions you have.
COMMITMENT & LOGISTICS
How much time do I need to commit?
Volunteering with us is flexible, and you aren’t tied to a rigid contract. While our main sessions run for 4 hours, we also offer 2-hour shifts to fit around your busy life. If you can’t make it one week or need to take a break, that’s fine too—we use a platform called Volunteero where you can easily manage your availability.
What is Volunteero and why do I need to use it?
Volunteero is the volunteer platform we use, available via smartphone app or web browser, that supports you from your very first click with us.
We use Volunteero to:
- Guide your onboarding: It gives you a clear, step-by-step checklist of your onboarding milestones (such as DBS checks, interviews, and training modules) so you always know where you are in the process.
- Streamline communications: It helps our team smoothly manage a high volume of volunteer enquiries so nobody falls through the cracks.
- Keep us compliant: It securely holds key information to ensure all safeguarding and regulatory standards are met before you start on session.
- Track your impact: It accurately logs the incredible hours you give us, allowing us to report on the difference our volunteer community makes to young people.
- Give you control of your schedule: Once you’re live, you can easily pick and book your own 2-hour or 4-hour shifts, log session feedback, and update your availability whenever you need a break.
Where will I be volunteering? Can I volunteer from home?
Most of our roles are hands-on at the Youth Zone. However, if you have a specific skill or project that can be delivered remotely, please reach out to us as we’d love to hear your ideas!
Will my expenses be reimbursed?
Yes. We reimburse out-of-pocket expenses incurred while volunteering with us, in line with our expense policy. We’ll walk you through how to submit valid receipts during your induction.
Can I leave if the role isn't the right fit?
Yes, you are free to step down at any time. We just ask for as much notice as possible so we can ensure continuity for the young people who rely on our sessions.
Will I need a DBS check?
Yes. All volunteers complete an Enhanced DBS check as part of our recruitment process and The Dome covers the cost of the check.
ELIGIBILITY & INCLUSION
Can I volunteer if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal conviction does not automatically prevent you from volunteering with us. We evaluate all disclosures on a case-by-case basis, considering the nature and relevance of the offence.
Because all of our roles require an Enhanced DBS check, we will ask you to complete a confidential criminal record declaration form as part of the application process. Any disclosures are kept strictly confidential and are reviewed separately from your interview.
I have a disability or additional needs - can I volunteer?
Absolutely. Representation across our team is vital. Please let us know during your informal chat if you require any reasonable adjustments so we can fully support you.
I’m pregnant - can I still volunteer?
Yes! When you let us know you’re pregnant, we’ll complete a quick, supportive risk assessment together. If your current or desired role poses any risks, we will work with you to make reasonable adjustments or adapt your role so you can continue volunteering safely.
I’m receiving benefits - will volunteering affect them?
Volunteering rarely impacts state benefits. However, we recommend reviewing the guidance provided on the NCVO Volunteering and Benefits page or speaking with your Work Coach for peace of mind.
I’m not a British national - can I volunteer?
In most cases, yes! You will just need to confirm that your visa terms permit volunteering and show your eligibility during the application process.
PLACEMENTS, CORPORATE GROUPS & FAMILIES
Do you offer corporate volunteering opportunities?
Yes, we love working with corporate partners! Please visit our Supporters Page or contact us directly at enquiries@thedomeyouthzone.org.
Can I complete a student placement at The Dome?
We do offer student placements, which are arranged directly through local universities. As these positions are competitive, please speak with your university placement tutor or email volunteer@thedomeyouthzone.org.
My child attends the Youth Zone - can I still volunteer?
Parents of our members are very welcome to volunteer with us! However, to ensure both you and your child get the best experience out of the Youth Zone, we ask that you do not volunteer on the specific sessions your child attends.