1. Applications to the Games Maker programme are now closed to the general public
Games Maker applications closed on 27 October 2010. Recruiting and training up to 70,000 volunteers is a complex operation, which is why we’ve already started. However, there are plenty of
other ways to volunteer, both now and at Games time.
2. We received over 240,000 Games Maker applications
We received a huge number of applications, and not everyone will get a role. We understand applicants may be disappointed if they're not selected as a Games Maker, but there are lots of ways to get involved in London 2012, and other ways to volunteer.
3. Throughout 2011 and early 2012 we are inviting applicants to a selection event
In January 2011 we started inviting successful applicants to a selection event. These events are taking place until February 2012.
4. We want our volunteers to come from all walks of life and from across the UK
We want the Games to be open to everyone and we want our volunteers to come from a diverse range of communities and backgrounds across the UK. We value and embrace diversity - be it age, disability, gender, ethnicity, religion and belief or sexual orientation.
5. Games Makers will have the same values and passion as us
Our volunteers will be professional, passionate, enthusiastic, energetic and be ready to push beyond their personal best to help us put on a truly memorable Games We want Games Makers to share our values and be
inspirational, open, respectful, team-focused, distinctive and have a can-do attitude
6. Volunteers will be given an official Games Maker uniform
Games Makers will receive an official uniform to wear during their shifts, which they’ll be able to keep as a souvenir once they’ve finished. Details of the uniform will be unveiled closer to Games time.
7. Games Makers will volunteer for a minimum of 10 days during the Games and attend at least three days of training
Games Makers will volunteer for a minimum of 10 days at either the Olympic Games or the Paralympic Games; or for a minimum of 20 days if they volunteer at both.
Shifts will typically last eight to 10 hours and adequate rest days will be given. Games Makers will also attend at least three training sessions prior to the Games.
8. Volunteers will find their own means of transport and accommodation
We are unable to provide accommodation for Games Makers, and will not reimburse travel costs to selection events, training or test events.
Volunteers will, however, be provided with free travel on public transport to and from their Games-time shifts. This will include travel within London zones 1–6 and between London and the following venues: Eton Dorney, Lee Valley White Water Centre and Hadleigh Farm, Essex. We will also provide free transport to Games Makers with roles in Weymouth & Portland and the co-Host Cities (within defined boundaries) for the Football competition: Manchester, Coventry, Cardiff, Newcastle and Glasgow.
9. Volunteers are not entitled to free tickets or back stage passes
Neither staff nor volunteers are entitled to 'access all area' passes or freebies – there will be thousands of people working for the Games come summer 2012, and there would be no tickets for everyone else if we kept them all for ourselves!
10. Over 2,000 16-18 year olds are volunteering through the Young Games Maker programme
Most of our roles require Games Makers to be 18 years old or over by 1 January 2012. However, over 2,000 young people are getting involved too! Find out more about the Young Games Maker programme for 16-18 year olds.