How physically demanding is volunteering in housekeeping?

Housekeeping Support is one of the more active volunteering roles at LHA, but it is something that the vast majority of volunteers can comfortably do.

Typical duties may include changing bed linen, collecting rubbish, cleaning kitchen appliances, disinfecting toilets, showers and sinks, vacuuming, mopping floors, and helping to keep communal areas clean, safe, and welcoming for residents and guests.

While the role does involve being on your feet and moving around the hostel, no specialist skills, previous experience, or exceptional fitness levels are required. Most volunteers quickly become familiar with the tasks and find them manageable as part of their daily routine.

The level of activity can vary depending on the hostel, occupancy levels, and the tasks required on a particular day, but volunteers are never expected to contribute beyond their abilities. If you have a disability, injury, health condition, or any concerns about certain tasks, we encourage you to discuss this with us. Wherever reasonably possible, we will do our best to provide support or consider adjustments while ensuring that health and safety remains a priority for everyone involved.

Many volunteers enjoy the role because it provides a healthy level of physical activity, clear goals, and the satisfaction of making a direct and visible contribution to the hostel community. At the end of the day, there is usually a real sense of achievement in seeing the difference your work has made for residents, guests, and fellow volunteers.