What is SCA? Student Community Action (SCA) is a student volunteering organisation at Durham University, running student-led volunteering projects in the local community. We have over 40 projects across both campuses, including those with adults, children, animals and the environment.
Who can join SCA? Any current Durham University student can get involved.
How much does it cost? Absolutely nothing!
What about expenses? Do I have to pay for my travel? SCA will reimburse your travel costs when volunteering on an SCA project, as long as you keep your receipt e.g. bus ticket. We do not usually reimburse taxi fares; these must be agreed with SCA beforehand.
What is a CRB check? CRB stands for Criminal Records Bureau. A CRB check is done to establish whether you have anything in your criminal record which would affect our decision to have you as a volunteer.
Do I need one? If you will be working regularly with children or vulnerable adults you need a CRB check.
How do I get a CRB check? Just pick up a form from the SCA office – a staff member will explain how to do the form and what documents we need to see to verify your identity. CRBs are free for volunteers.
How long does a CRB check take to process? On average they take 2-3 weeks but it can take more or less time – mistakes made on the form can slow down the process so make sure you fill it in carefully.
Can I start volunteering before I get my CRB check back? Some projects will allow you to attend as a one-off before your CRB is back, others will not – just check with the project leader of the project.
When can I start volunteering? This varies depending on the project – for some all you need is to fill in a registration form and get in touch with the project leader. For others you will need to wait for your CRB to be cleared. Some projects will also need you to do training before you can start. We will do everything we can to get you volunteering as soon as possible.
Where are projects held? Projects are held in various locations at both campuses; some are based in University buildings and others are in the local community.
Where can I find out about the projects? Get hold of an SCA Rough Guide or take a look at the project pages here on the website. Hard copies of the Rough Guide are available from the SCA office in the DSU.
Can I join more than one project? Yes, you can join as many projects as you like.
What else does SCA do? We run social events, such as socials, Jazz and Wine, and Comedy and Cocktails; one-off volunteering events; volunteer training; awards to our volunteers both at the oSCArs awards ceremony and throughout the year with hours certificates.
I’m interested in getting involved, but I have questions. Who can I ask? You can email the office at community.action@durham.ac.uk with any queries. Your College Ambassador or an exec member may be able to help, their contact details are on the website under the ‘About’ heading.
I have a problem with my volunteering. Who do I contact? If you have any problems whatsoever, please contact the SCA Office on 0191 334 1797 or at community.action@durham.ac.uk.
Where is the SCA Office? We have two offices, one at each campus. Durham Campus – in the Activity Centre, Floor C, in Durham Students’ Union (DSU). Open 10am – 4.30pm Mon – Fri. Queen’s Campus – Room D215, Ebsworth Building (inside the library, down the corridor ahead of you when you turn left at the library reception). Email queens.sca@durham.ac.uk for opening times.
