We are currently recruiting for Search Technicians (full training available), 4 x 4 drivers (own vehicle required) and fundraisers. Please complete the expression of intrest form by clicking the button below, and our membership lead will be in touch with the next steps. But before you do that have a look at the FAQs.
Below are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about membership of SULSAR. If you have any specific questions, you can contact the team directly using the form at the bottom of this page.
Who can join SULSAR?
Anyone over the age of 18 can apply, but you do need to be reasonably fit to be an active searcher. However the group also needs administrators and fund-raisers in support of ‘operational’ members, so if you feel you would prefer to help in those ways please get in touch.
What skills do I need?
No specific skills are needed to join, as we provide full training for the role. Enthusiasm, commitment and the ability to work as part of a team are more important.
The Joining Process
If you have decided that you would like to join SULSAR, the first thing to do is to complete an expression of interest form. You can do this by clicking here the button below.
Once the recruitment team receives this form, they will be in touch to either; confirm your place on a waiting list, OR, invite you to a ‘Meet and Greet’ session. This meet and greet session is designed to give an overview of our organisation, the structure, and the mission – as well as giving you a chance to meet key personnel. This session also encompasses a discussion around ‘The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly’ that search and rescue volunteers are likely to experience.
Application form, DBS and Fees
After the Meet and greet you will be asked to complete a full apllication form. Because of our activities and our close working relationship with the police, all new members are required to complete this form including health and wellbeing questions. All responses are kept strictly private and confidential and are stored securely. It is a requirement of membership to have an enhanced DBS check complete due to the nature of our work. We will facilitate this process.
We have a joining fee of £25 and yearly subscription costs of £10.What training is available to me?
In order to become an ‘operational’ member and take part in ‘live searches’ you will need to complete an Initial Search Course. This course will provide you with the training and skills you need to work as a member of a search team (normally 4 people). Further training is provided in a variety of subjects including first aid, team leadership, communications, land navigation (use of map and compass), and other associated subjects. Training is currently twice a month, (the first Thursday evening in the month and the third Sunday in the month although this may vary).
Is there a minimum commitment from me?
As already mentioned, to become fully operational you will need to attend an Initial Search Course. This a two-day course that takes place during one weekend. We appreciate you will be a volunteer, but we do specify a minimum number of attendances (this is currently set at eight per year) at training evenings/days and exercises during the year. This is to ensure that all members are fully trained and well practiced in readiness for ‘live searches’. People’s lives may depend upon our skills.