FAQs for Trailblazers programme

Who are we looking for?

Our Trailblazers need to have a wide range of skills and experience. We therefore want to appeal to all areas of the community to ensure we attract a diverse range of applicants.

Volunteers will need the following personal qualities:

• Flexibility: be adaptable and be able to learn from situations and deal with changing priorities.
• Commitment: be dedicated and take on some personal responsibility.
• Friendly: be supportive of team members and be helpful and welcoming.
• Positive attitude: be enthusiastic; service-focused and have a 'can do' attitude.
• Good communicator: have good interpersonal skills.

What are the basic requirements for someone wanting to apply to be a Trailblazer?

All volunteers will need to meet the following minimum requirements in order to be considered for a role in the Trailblazers programme:

• Basic computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience of working within a team environment.
• Commitment to volunteer one set day a week.
• Eligibility to work as a volunteer within the UK in accordance with immigration rules.

What will the Trailblazers be doing?

Volunteers on the Trailblazers programme will undertake a variety of roles within a designated department of LOCOG. See available positions

How will volunteers benefit from this experience?

Volunteers will benefit from making a difference to the London 2012 Games and will be part of something that is unique to London over the next three years. In addition, volunteers will:

• meet other people;
• enjoy being part of a team;
• gain valuable experience; and
• learn and develop new skills.

Why is the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) using volunteers?

Volunteers have always been an important part of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

How many volunteering opportunities will there be pre-Games?

We started the programme with 20 Trailblazers in January 2009. As we get closer to the Games, the number of volunteers will increase.

Is there a minimum age for volunteers?

Regulations affecting volunteers aged under 18 mean that we are unlikely to include younger volunteers in our general programme.

Is there a maximum age for volunteers?

There is no maximum age. We want to attract a wide range of volunteers, reflecting the diversity of people in the UK.

Can I volunteer for Trailblazers if I have registered on the London 2012 database?

Yes, you can. The London 2012 database will only update you on 2012 news and events.

If I have previous volunteering experience will that help my application?

We are keen to encourage both experienced and new volunteers. Although previous experience would be of benefit, it is not part of our selection criteria.

If I have never volunteered before does that mean I can’t apply?

We welcome applications from people who have a passion to play a part in the lead up to the Games, even if they’ve never volunteered before. Volunteers just need to be able to meet the minimum criteria set out above.

Does becoming a Trailblazer mean that I will be guaranteed a volunteer position during the Games?

No. Trailblazers is a separate programme to the Games-time volunteer programme. Becoming a Trailblazer will not automatically give you a Games-time position.

Can I apply to be a Games-time volunteer if I am a Trailblazer?

Yes, you can. Trailblazers recruitment will be starting now while recruitment for Games-time volunteers will start in July 2010.

I have a disability and need extra support. Can I still volunteer?

We welcome applications from people with disabilities. We are committed to involving people with disabilities as volunteers and will work with successful candidates to provide appropriate support and assistance.

I have a disability and I need someone to assist me at all times. Do they need to go through the application process too?

Due to security restrictions, we will need to collect some information on the person (or people) required to assist you. However, as they will not have a specific volunteer role they will not need to complete the full selection process.

Why do you ask for information about diversity on the application form?

We would be grateful if you could give us this information for our monitoring and evaluation processes. One measure of the success of this volunteer programme will be our ability to involve people from a range of diverse backgrounds. However, all diversity information will be immediately separated from the application form and kept confidential.

How much time do I have to commit?

Volunteers are asked to commit one day a week for a minimum of three months.

Is there any flexibility about what days I volunteer?

Most volunteers will be able to choose what day they would like to work and will then commit to that day every week. We of course understand that there may be occasions when this day is not suitable; this is fine as long as you give adequate notice.

What security checks will London 2012 be doing on applicants?

All successful applicants will be required to undertake a basic criminal records check. If your role requires you to work with children, you will be required to complete an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check.

Will there be any further checks?

Before a Trailblazer can start you will need to provide:

• Proof of your identity (passport or driving licence with photo)
• Proof of your address (original utility bill or bank statement which is no older than three months)
• Details of references
• Proof that you are eligible to volunteer in the UK if relevant (visa or existing work permit)

Will you pay for my travel and accommodation costs?

LOCOG is unable to pay any travel or other expenses. However, if you are registered as unemployed and you are claiming benefits, you may be able to claim your travel expenses – speak to your Jobcentre Plus Adviser.

Will I be insured?

Office-based volunteers will be covered under our employer’s liability insurance.

How can I apply to be a Trailblazer?

Please complete the application form and the Diversity and Inclusion Form and email to trailblazers.volunteers@london2012.com

or post the forms to:

Trailblazers
LOCOG, 
22nd Floor,
One Churchill Place,
London, E14 5LN