A big friendly welcome awaits you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What support can I expect?

The Greeters movement has been established for 15 years in New York and have a vast experience in dealing with visitors and the day to day running of the scheme. We have already been engaging with the Big Apple Greeters and they are willing to share their experiences with the Thanet Greeters to enable all volunteers to receive full support in setting up and the on going operation of the scheme.

On a local level it is planned that a support package will be offered to volunteers including training and information sheets. There will of course be regular communication between all members.

Will I be insured?

Yes. Provided volunteers work within the guidelines laid down by the Thanet Greeters scheme all relevant insurances will be in place and no personal liability will be incurred.

How much time will I have to give?

It is up to you. Everyone is a volunteer and will only be expected to give time to the scheme when it is practical and comfortable to do so.

Will it cost me anything?

No. Everyone in the scheme is a volunteer working, in the main, in his or her own town. Any other services or products offered, as part of the meeting will be provided by the Greeters organisation. The Greeters operates a no payment and no tipping policy.

Are there any other roles besides greeting people?

Yes. Every well run organisation has backroom people and the greeters is no exception. As the movement grows many organisational staff will be required. We are keen to get more people involved in the set up of the scheme that have time and organisation skills available.

Will I have to talk to large groups?

No. It is a rule that a party of visitors met by a greeter will not exceed 6 persons. The scheme is not a professional tour guide service and is not to take business from existing organisations in Thanet.

Will I be expected to use my car to show people around?

No. All meetings take place in public places and should the need to travel further a field occur, public transport must be used.

Will I get any training?

Yes, guidance will be given to ensure that greetings follow a similar pattern, however, we do not wish to suppress individual personal enthusiasm. Part of the training will include a orientation session.

Can anyone join?

The vast majority of people will be welcomed from all backgrounds and abilities to fulfill both Greeter and administrative roles. However, we must not loose sight of the fact the Greeters are ambassadors for their country and area and so an application system will be in place and acceptance for becoming a volunteer is not automatic.

Are volunteers required to speak a foreign language?

No, but our visitors hopefully will come from all over the world. The Greeter policy is that all Visitors/ Greeters will be matched to ensure that both parties have an enjoyable experience. Special needs will be identified at the time of booking.

Who administers the scheme? How is it funded?

To be launch in May 2007 the Thanet Greeters scheme will be a non-profit making organisation. A volunteer board of directors will be set up to steer the scheme forward. Set up funding has been provided from Kent Tourism and Interreg funding for 2006 and 2007. Thanet District Council has offered in kind funding to include officer time, mailing, and office premises.

Other funding will hopefully be generated through corporate donations and in kind contributions. Special fundraising events will also be looked into.