Information for volunteers
Statisticians for Society is the perfect opportunity for statisticians to use their skills for public good. From newly qualified to the well-experienced, the scheme helps our members donate their time to good causes.
'It was such a positive experience volunteering and helping The Dockland Settlements. I created a survey for them to find out about their users and their impact on the local community. The charity can reuse the survey in future years, and I gained valuable experience working with real life data.'
Lucy Charlton, Senior Analyst
What’s our process?
When an organisation registers interest, we will contact them to determine whether they meet the criteria for pro bono support. If eligible, we will arrange a call for them with a member of our pro bono scoping committee, who will determine what form of statistical support is needed. The committee member will produce a scoping brief which we will send to the organisation for approval.
When the signed scoping form is returned, we will put a call out to our members asking them to express of interest in the opportunity within 14 days. We will then match the organisation with a volunteer statistician, or team of statisticians, with the relevant expertise for the project. The statistician will be introduced to the organisation and, following this meeting, they will work together to produce a detailed project plan containing the agreed timeline, which will be signed by both parties.
During the project, a call will be arranged for the volunteer with a member of our review panel, an independent statistician who is responsible for reviewing project outputs before they are handed over to participating organisation. After the volunteer has written up the work into a final report, the reviewer will help identify areas for attention and check that the needs of the organisation have been met.
Once the project is complete, we will arrange a call with the organisation and volunteer to discuss their experience and providing feedback.
Why should you volunteer?
Pro bono work is both challenging and rewarding. It is an excellent way of providing vital services to those in need, while gaining experience.
As a volunteer, you will:
- Help charitable organisations make a positive difference in society
- Work on projects; either as an individual or as part of a team
- Share good practice and strengthen confidence in data and evidence.
Please note that you must be fellow of the Society to take part in the initiative.