Poppy Seller (VSNS)

We always need new volunteers - Poppy People - to assist with Poppy Appeal collecting in Surrey

Why get involved with the Royal British Legion (RBL)?

You don’t need to be an RBL member or have links to the Armed Forces community to volunteer with us. You’ll be joining the UK's leading Armed Forces charity, the heart of a national network that supports our Armed Forces community through thick and thin – and helping ensure their unique contribution is never forgotten.

How will I make a difference as a Poppy Appeal Collector?

You will help raise vital funds by collecting donations from the public at various locations and events during the Poppy Appeal (October and November) and at our all-year-round fundraising events and shows.

What would I be doing as a Poppy Appeal Collector?

• Collecting donations from the public using fundraising materials and a collecting bucket/tin and contactless devices

• Representing the RBL at high footfall locations/events

• Supervising stalls at collection points and events

• Talking to members of the public to raise awareness of the work of RBL.

What are the benefits for me?

• The experience of involvement with high-profile fundraising in your local area.

• Being part of a committed and friendly team.

• Opportunity to provide support and give confidence to others.

• Gain or maintain skills and experience.

• Make a difference to the Armed Forces community. 

What skills do I need?

Without volunteer collectors and Poppy appeal organisers planning the collections through out the year, this vital cause - that helps tens of thousands of ex-Service men and women and their dependants every year - would not be possible.

Surrey urgently need to recruit more people as many of our current volunteers are retiring from active duty. Add to this the ever increasing demand on the Legion's services and you can see we need your help more than ever.

What skills and experience would I need, or could I develop?

You will be committed to and passionate about the RBL’s vision and values and you’ll enjoy the challenge of volunteering in a community fundraising role.

• Able to demonstrate politeness, approachability, and enthusiasm for your role.

• Confident communication skills.

• Dedication, reliability and flexibility.

• Knowledge of relevant fundraising, methods, policies and procedures according to the method and location of collection.

• Keen to learn about the support the RBL offers the Armed Forces community and sharing this knowledge with the public you meet.

• Committed to acting in line with Legion policies and procedures, including those relating to data protection; confidentiality; safeguarding; health and safety and equality and diversity.

What support will be available to me?

• Your local Poppy Appeal Organiser, a fellow volunteer, will be your main point of contact and support.

• The local Community Fundraiser or Fundraising Relationship Assistant (RBL staff member) will also offer guidance.

• You will have a Volunteer Agreement that outlines as what you can expect from the RBL and the RBL’s expectations of you.

• Opportunities for further development and/or experience in other RBL volunteer roles.

What else do I need to know?

Where: There are collecting locations throughout the UK during the Poppy Appeal and at fundraising events throughout the year. You’ll usually be volunteering in your local area, including high streets, supermarkets or at events.

Time commitment: It’s an all-year round volunteer role, with flexible opportunities to fundraise and raise awareness throughout. The busiest period is the annual Poppy Appeal, taking place over the two weeks leading up to Remembrance Sunday in November.

Training/Resources: Your local Poppy Appeal organiser will provide all the information and resources you will need to support collections. This includes fundraising equipment, ID cards and collecting guidance.

Expenses: Reasonable out-of-pocket costs agreed in advance will be reimbursed as outlined in the Poppy Appeal Organisers Handbook. Please discuss with your local Poppy Appeal Organiser.

Extra Information: The minimum age for Poppy Appeal Collectors is 16 years old (parental / guardian consent required for under 18s).

Younger collectors may be considered provided they are supervised by a parent / guardian, or part of youth group with leader supervision.

    Note; In order to comply with charity regulations, we reserve the right to carry out additional screening of volunteers if we consider it appropriate to do so.

RBL values and behaviours - does the following describe you?

• Passionate about supporting the Armed Forces community and honouring their contribution.

• A desire to provide great support in all that you do.

• Enjoy and thrive in working in teams and with others.

• Committed to being the best you can and to learn and develop new and existing skills.

• Eager to share your knowledge and experience to help others.