Here's everything you need to know about volunteering for us and supporting the vaccination efforts in Wales:

How can I help?

We’re looking for compassionate, enthusiastic and caring individuals to help support the biggest vaccination programme in Wales’ history.

We’re offering a vital rolee to help us support the NHS in Wales as part of the vaccination programme:

• Vaccination care volunteer

We currently have opportunities in the following areas:

You can learn more about these roles here.

Will I need training?

Yes, there’ll be a mixture of online and offline training that needs to be completed before you can support your community.

What training can I expect? Can I volunteer straight after signing up?

All volunteers will be trained to the required standard before going out on duty.

Initial training is expected to take around six hours.

How long will it take for my application to be processed?

Due to the large numbers of applications we're currently receiving we're expecting processing time to be between 3-4 weeks. Please only follow up your application after this time.

I'm a registered healthcare provider, do I need training?

Yes, you'll need to complete our St John Ambulance Cymru training which includes safeguarding as well as additional training as required by your local health board.

I’m a registered healthcare professional, do I need insurance cover to give the vaccine? 

No, the relevant insurance cover will be provided by your local health board.

Which healthcare professionals can give vaccinations?

Registered pharmacists, chiropodists, podiatrists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dietitians, doctors, midwives, nurses, occupational therapists, optometrists, orthoptists, orthotists, prosthetists, paramedics, physiotherapists, radiographers and speech and language therapists.

Do I have to have been vaccinated before I volunteer?

No, having a vaccine is a personal choice however Health Boards strongly recommend you consider getting the vaccine to reduce your risk of becoming unwell with coronavirus.

Will I need my own personal protective equipment (PPE)?

You’ll need your own face covering when arriving and leaving your shift.

Before starting your shift, you’ll be asked to change into specific PPE required by vaccination centres.

Do I have to wear uniform?

All those volunteering on behalf of St John Ambulance Cymru will be provided with clothing and an appropriate ID badge.

You may be required to put PPE on over your clothes for your shift.

How will I know where to go?

Once you sign up for a shift you’ll be sent information about your vaccination centre including location and anything else you might need to know.

Will I be given food during my shift?

No, some centres may provide drinks but it’s recommended you bring your own food and drink for lunch and break times.

Will my expenses be covered?

Travel and some other expenses can be claimed using the provided expense claim form.

How long can I expect a shift to be?

Details of agreed shifts will be available via your rota. Shift times can differ depending on which Health Board you're volunteering with but you should expect to complete either one 8 hour shift or two 4 hour shifts.

Most centres will open 30 mins before the first registrations and close 45 mins after the last vaccination of the day.

If I decide to have the vaccine, how many doses will I need?

This will vary depending on which vaccination you receive.

You should expect to have at least two doses.

Can my friends and family get vaccinated too?

No. Vaccines are given in line with Welsh Government guidelines and so they'll need to wait until they’re invited by the Welsh Government.

Is the vaccine safe?

Everything you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccines can be found here.

Can I volunteer at more than one vaccination centre?

Yes, but only if they’re part of the same Health Board. (This may change depending on the needs of your Health Board)

Is volunteering safe?

The role has been assessed as low risk by Health Boards.

Volunteers will be given appropriate advice, training and personal protective equipment (PPE) and are expected to follow social distancing guidelines.

Those who’ve chosen to be vaccinated may have additional protection.

Tell me more about how you’re working with the British Red Cross.

Read all about our partnership with the British Red Cross in Wales here.

What happens to my personal data?

Your name and email will be provided to our partners at the British Red Cross so they can identify you. This data will also be used by Health Boards so they know you have had the right training.

How long is the vaccination programme be expected to run?

We’re anticipating our support will be needed for approximately six months.

Are there any other volunteering opportunities available to help support your work?

Yes, we have other roles available including volunteering remotely and supporting our national teams.
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