If someone is in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance and wishes to volunteer, they may do so as long as they remain available to take up paid employment. Volunteer Ireland frequently receives reports of jobseekers being refused the option to volunteer by their Deciding Officers. This is primarily due to a lack of training or understanding of the benefits and eligibility of volunteering for jobseekers. Volunteer Ireland advocates on behalf of jobseekers to the Department of Employment and Social Protection to ensure eligible jobseekers are not just permitted to volunteer, but also that it is understood as a positive activity that increases employability. You can read our leaflet for jobseekers on volunteering while seeking employment here.
