Activities volunteer volunteer roles in liverpool

What is involved 

This is considered a full-time volunteer role. The brood will live with you from approximately 14-18 months of age until retirement.

• With guidance support and advice from our breeding team maintain the broods health and welfare, including maintaining a good weight and fitness level along with basic training and general obedience. 

• Be available for and attend training sessions within the working week that will involve:

• home visits 

• virtual online training

• one-to-ones 

• Be available to take the brood for essential veterinary visits as required. 

• The brood will have approximately two seasons per year and will stay at home during her season. Advice on management or any veterinary visits required during the season, will be given by our breeding team. 

• The brood will have one litter per year from the age of two, up to a maximum of four litters. Each litter will be born within the home and the puppies will remain with the brood until they are approximately eight weeks old and ready to go to their puppy parents (plenty of opportunities for puppy cuddles). Full support, guidance and training will be provided by our breeding team throughout the broods’ mating season, pregnancy, whelping and litter. Equipment for the litter is provided. 

• Whilst the brood has a litter – we ask that pet dogs have restricted exercise (full information and guidance is given by the breeding team). This measure is to minimise the risk of infection to the litter. 

• The dog breeding volunteer will have updates throughout each litters training.

What we require from you 

• The primary dog breeding volunteer must be 18 years or over 

• Have a dog friendly secure garden

• Be at home for most of the day and ideally live within one hour of LE12 9SR 

• Though desirable, prior dog ownership is not required 

• If you are a dog owner, you cannot have an entire male dog. Maximum of three pet dogs which will be assessed on a case-by-case basis considering the size of pet dogs, along with available space within in the property. Any pet dogs will be assessed as part of the home assessment.

• Time and stamina to provide the brood with a minimum of one hour's exercise per day (this can be completed in one or multiple walks). 

• Time to provide training sessions to maintain basic obedience. 

• Access to own transport to travel the brood on essential journeys such as veterinary appointments and pre-mating tests as required. 

• Have time and stamina to devote to the brood and her litter. The brood cannot be routinely left for more than four hours in a day. 

• Have space within the home for the brood and her litter. 

Support and Training 

• Induction process which includes submitting of application, telephone interview, home visit, training and handling sessions. 

• Each volunteer is allocated a member of the Canine Partners breeding team as their first point of contact. 

• Receive regular training, resources and other important information via your trainer; this may be in the format of physical copies, digital or in person. 

• All equipment for the litter is provided. 

• Our breeding team will offer continued support throughout the pregnancy and litter. 

• Payment of expenditure such as mileage to and from a pre-mating test 

• Invitation to join Official Canine Partners Community Facebook Group 

We appreciate any volunteering help that you can offer YBTC and want to make sure that our

volunteers have a positive experience with us. We pledge to support you as much as we can.

We want to ensure that volunteering with us does not feel too daunting, so the exact tasks might

vary depending on your circumstances. However, some typical tasks may include:

· Asking people you know who might be willing to have a collection box in their business

· Approaching local businesses to display the boxes and collect loose change from their customers

· Building and maintaining relationships with your box holders to inspire loyalty and encourage people to continue giving year after year

· Collecting the boxes in your area as and when required and taking to your YBTC contact

We are looking for people who are:

· Have a warm, friendly and confident outlook

· Willing to learn about the work of YBTC

· Able to communicate with a range of different groups

· Are creative and imaginative – spotting opportunities to boost your distribution

· Are well organised and enjoy meeting new people

· Reliable and able to commit to agreed requirements

We can offer you:

· Induction and ongoing training

· Ongoing support and supervision in your role

· The opportunity to learn new skills

· YBTC commitment to health and safety

Founded in 2003 and originally named Andrea’s Gift and later Brain Tumour Research and Support

Across Yorkshire, Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity (YBTC) is Yorkshire and Humber’s leading

brain tumour charity. Offering practical, financial and emotional support to both adult and child

brain tumour patients, together with their families.

We fund brain tumour research in Yorkshire; we hope this research, dedicated to identifying new

approaches to the discovery and treatment of brain tumours, will improve outcomes for patients.

At YBTC we are a small team who are growing to meet the needs of those affected by a brain

tumour in Yorkshire. Around 15 new cases of primary brain tumour are diagnosed in the region

every week.

Our charity values are Integrity, Compassion, Community, & Ambition.

Our Vision/Mission

To improve the lives of people impacted by a brain tumour in Yorkshire, through local support and

research.

Time2Share@WECIL’s Befriending Service links volunteers 1:1 with a Disabled child / young person. Links are based on shared interests and activities which the volunteer and young person can enjoy doing together either in the child/family home or out in the community.

What experience do I need?

You do not need any previous experience with disabled children or young people, but we ask that volunteers are friendly, caring, reliable and able to make a commitment to visit a young person regularly.

What will I be doing?

You will volunteer within Time2Share@WECIL’s befriending service for disabled children/young people (aged 5-18 yrs) and their families. This involves spending time regularly with a disabled child or young person in their home or supporting the young person to take part in social and leisure activities in their local community. You will not be asked to administer medication or deliver personal care in this role.

Who am I responsible for?

You are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of the child or young person you are linked with. All links are risk-assessed and carefully monitored by your co-ordinator.

Who am I responsible to?

The parent / carer. You must ensure that the parent / carer’s reasonable instructions and guidance regarding the welfare of their child are adhered to and that clear communication is maintained. Feedback must be given to the parent/carer following a visit.

How often will I be needed?

Time2Share@WECIL typically ask for volunteers to commit to 2-4 hours a week and the days / times are agreed between the volunteer and the family. We ask for a minimum commitment of 6 months to ensure the child and their family are able to benefit fully from the relationship.

About us 

The Greenhouse Project exists to enable children, young people, their families and communities to access opportunities that support their creative development, understanding and celebration of diversity. It delivers a programme of media, performance and visual arts workshops, activities and events, educational outreach, Early Years Education and a Play Days Out of School hours initiative.

Volunteer Opportunity – Afterschool Club Pick-ups & Play

At The Greenhouse, we truly value our amazing volunteers, whose support enables us to operate daily. Building positive relationships with children and staff, while demonstrating kindness, respect, and strong values, is an essential part of our work environment.

Volunteers play a vital role in supporting our Out of School and Holiday Club sessions. We are looking for dedicated volunteers to support our Afterschool Club by helping with school pick-ups and engaging children in play activities.

What We Need

• Volunteers who can spare 3 hours per day, Monday to Friday (this is desirable, however, even 1 hour to help get the children from school to The Greenhouse Project Out of School will be appreciated)

• You can choose to volunteer from one to five days per week, but we ask for confirmed availability and reliability

• A willingness to complete a DBS check (the cost will be covered by us)

What You'll Be Doing

• Assisting with school pick-ups

• Engaging children in fun and creative activities

• Helping to create a safe and positive environment for all

• Preparing activities and engaging with children during sessions
• Reading
• Arts and crafts
• Messy play and water activities
• Gardening and forest school
• Cooking
• Hoovering
• Cleaning and washing dishes

If you're interested or would like more information, we'd love to hear from you!

Job Title: Fundraiser Trainer & Advisor

Reporting to: Operational Director

Hours: 2 to 4 hours per week (we can be flexible and work with your schedule)

Willowbrook Farm Charity

Willowbrook Farm Charity exists to create nurturing educational and cultural spaces in the Oxfordshire countryside that are welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to communities who have been historically underrepresented in rural environments — including people from racialised backgrounds, neurodivergent individuals, and young people with diverse learning needs.

In partnership with Willowbrook Farm (www  willowbrookfarm  co  uk), where we host our activities, we aim to build a nationally recognised centre of excellence that supports personal growth, wellbeing, and connection with nature. Through hands-on learning, community building, and cultural exchange, we empower individuals and groups to explore sustainable living, ethical land stewardship, and the transformative potential of nature-based education.

Our Values

Community
We foster a culture of care, connection, and belonging. We create space for people to come together in joy, learning, and mutual support, building relationships rooted in respect and shared purpose.

Stewardship

We honour the land as a living system and recognise that the wellbeing of people and nature are deeply interconnected. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of ethical and responsible stewards — who care for the earth, each other, and future generations.

Equity & Inclusion
We are dedicated to removing barriers so that people of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities can access and participate fully in experiences of farming, countryside living, and sustainability. We celebrate diversity and work to create welcoming spaces where everyone can thrive.

Connection with Nature
We centre our actions on a deep respect for the natural world. We believe in restoring and nurturing the bond between humans and nature, creating a place where both can flourish in harmony.

Job description

We are thrilled to welcome a Fundraiser Trainer & Advisor to support our Fundraising and Marketing Team at a pivotal time for our charity.

After a challenging period of inactivity due to the impacts of Covid, we are excited to embark on a new chapter, as we are ready to restart our activities in 2025 and to develop our projects and create a positive impact in our community.

This is a unique opportunity for those eager to be part of a project evolving from its early stages to the launch of new initiatives. The volunteer will have ample opportunity to grow with the charity.

We are looking for a passionate and articulate Fundraiser with extensive experience in fundraising strategy and bidding writing skills.

What this position entails

This role is designed for someone eager to share their fundraising knowledge by coaching our team to enhance their skills and gain a deeper understanding of the fundraising landscape.

We work with a dedicated team of volunteers, from our operational staff to those actively participating in our events, all of whom are enthusiastic about supporting our initiatives while gaining valuable experience and connecting with new people. Our Fundraising Trainer will provide valuable training to our fundraising and marketing team, focusing on enhancing their fundraising abilities, helping them to develop innovative strategies, and assisting with bid revisions by offering them constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.

We seek a mentor rather than someone to handle fundraising tasks for the team; we want a guide who can empower others to learn from their expertise.

Therefore, the ideal candidate must possess excellent communication skills and the ability to train individuals in the art of fundraising with creativity and kindness.

The key focus of the role is:

•  Train and guide the fundraising and marketing team, acting as a mentor.
•  Revise bids and give insightful suggestions for improvement.

Essential:

• Highly experienced in Fundraising and with excellent communication skills.
• Able to produce training in Fundraising skills and deliver it to the team.
• Able to dedicate time to weekly catch-ups with the team and review actions, offering insightful tips for improvement.
• Able to give constructive feedback on bid applications.

We might consider multiple volunteers for this position if we get applications from fundraisers with specialised skills in different areas of fundraising.

 
By getting involved you will gain:

• This is an excellent opportunity for professionals eager to utilise their talents to address community needs and contribute to reducing inequality.
  
• Additionally, this is an excellent starting point for those wanting to transition their fundraising career to a mentor/coaching style and are looking for an opportunity to develop skills as a mentor/trainer, try new techniques and get useful feedback from the team in your mentorship style.  

Location: Fully Remote. But we welcome those who wish to come and visit the farm at least once to understand more about us.

Commitment:

The estimated time needed is 2 to 4 hours a week, and we welcome those volunteers who can offer more, although it is not a requirement for the role. We can be flexible and work with you to find hours that fit ours and your schedule - all help is much appreciated!

As this is a trainer position, we unfortunately won’t accept applications from volunteers who do not possess a solid background in fundraising strategy.  

Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application.

Amazing, giving, and inspiring are just a few words we would use to describe our volunteers.

Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.

About the role 

As a Regional Fundraising Volunteer, you will support Rethink Mental Illness in generating income, raising awareness, and building community engagement through local fundraising initiatives. The role will involve event planning and support, and public engagement to help achieve regional fundraising goals. 

You will play a major part in bringing to life regional fundraising activities in line with our “Rethink in the Community" concept and increase regional awareness to generate much needed additional income and amplify the impact of the work Rethink Mental Illness do.

You will receive training and regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role. 

Regional locations

Whilst this is a home based role, you will occasionally attend events within your region. We're particularly interested in receiving applications from people who live in the following areas:

Yorkshire & Northeast: Newcastle, Gateshead, York, Sunderland

Northwest: Manchester, Liverpool, Stoke-on-Trent

Midlands: Birmingham, Solihull, West Bromwich, Wolverhampton, Walsall

Southwest: Gloucester, Bristol, Plymouth, North Devon, South Devon, Cornwall

East of England: Norfolk, Norwich, Ipswich

What you will be doing as a Regional Fundraising Volunteer: 

• Support and assist in organising and participating in local fundraising events.

• Help with event logistics, set-up, and participant engagement to ensure smooth delivery. 

• Take part in local initiatives acquiring donors and do it yourself fundraisers. 

• Increase awareness of the organisation’s work by helping to promote regional fundraising activity. 

• Represent the organisation at schools, community groups, and public events, delivering presentations to inspire support. 

• Communicate with supporters via phone, email, and face-to-face interactions. 

• Attend and contribute to meetings with the fundraising team and supporters to share updates and ideas. 

What will make you a great fit for this role?

You will have good knowledge of your local community and be passionate about making a difference to those severely affected by mental illness. You will also have:

• The ability to organise events and activities

• The ability to inspire and motivate others

• Good communication skills

• Creative ideas to promote diverse fundraising activities 

• Dedication to our cause 

Who are we? 

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”     

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.     

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion   

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.   

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation   

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.   

We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.  

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Volunteer positions currently available in Sefton

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:

· Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support

· Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes

· Raise concerns

· Keep detailed notes and records

· Make a real difference to someone’s life

Hospital Visitor Volunteer

Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.  The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake. 

As a hospital volunteer, you might:

• hold drop-in sessions
• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
• share information
• assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.

To find out more click “Apply Now”.

Volunteer:  Volunteer Community Outreach Officer

Location: Off-site with occasional in-person activities

Reports to: Volunteer Manager

Support Connect and Inspire Local Volunteers for ROLDA UK!

Are you interested in animal welfare and want to make a positive difference in your community? ROLDA UK are now seeking Volunteer Community Outreach Officer to help reach out to local volunteers, facilitate small activities in the community, and raise awareness of our charity's mission to rescue and rehabilitate stray and abandoned animals.

Your Role

• Help ROLDA UK build a local presence within your community by networking and growing local volunteers who are interested in animal welfare and ask them to join you.

• Create new opportunities within your local community and grow a network of volunteers who can get involved in local fundraising events like charity walks, bake sales, and helping to run local stalls etc.

• Inspire and encourage local volunteers to join your community group, collaborate, share ideas, and plan effective activities.

• Help raise awareness about ROLDA UK within your community by recruiting for volunteers to join your hub and help build local networks.

• Support your local community hub by organising regular online and in-person gatherings. Attend community events to discuss ROLDA UK’s work and encourage others to support the cause.

What We’re Looking For

• Friendly and approachable people who enjoy meeting and engaging with people.

• Good communicators who can share information and encourage others to get involved.

• Passionate about animal welfare and interested in fundraising locally to help support stray and abandoned animals.

• Organised and enthusiastic to help with planning local activities, promotion and helping out at local events.

Who Should Apply?

• Anyone interested in helping animals and becoming a part of their local community.

• Individuals who enjoy working with others and bringing people together.

• People looking for a rewarding way to volunteer and make a difference at home.

Time commitment and what’s in it for you

•  Flexible volunteer hours (for this role we just ask for a minimum of 5 hours+ a week) and give as much or as little time as you like.

• Meet like-minded people and be part of a friendly and supportive team.

• Gain valuable experience in community engagement, activities, and event planning.

• Make a difference by helping ROLDA UK grow its local presence and support more animals in need.

If you’d like to connect with others, support a great cause, and help make a difference for animals, we’d love to hear from you!

Join us today and be part of something special.

ROLDA does not support visa applications for volunteers. All in-person volunteers must have the legal right to volunteer in the country where they are located. It is the volunteer's responsibility to ensure they meet the necessary visa and work authorisation requirements before participating in any activities with ROLDA. However, remote volunteer roles do not require a visa, as they can be performed from anywhere.

Join our amazing volunteer team in this flexible opportunity that puts you at the heart of our work supporting blind and partially sighted people. You’ll make taking part in events and carrying out volunteering easier and more enjoyable for our customers and volunteers with sight loss. You’ll take some of the stress and anxiety out of getting around and taking part in activities as a blind or partially sighted person. The help you give will encourage people to do more. What you’ll be doing • Sighted guiding / giving practical help to individuals in and around venues, so they can take part in events. • Supporting volunteers with sight loss with their volunteering activities which range from facilitating a regular community group to delivering a talk about sight loss to a local business. Your role would involve things like guiding; Meeting and greeting at group activities or creating a welcoming and interesting display stand at events. In this role you will only be helping individuals in places open to the public, often in a group setting. We will provide training in sighted guiding techniques and understanding sight loss. We would particularly like to recruit support volunteers within the Downpatrick area (last Wednesday of every month) What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training. • A supportive manager. • Regular updates and catchups. • Expenses. • An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people. • An empathetic and professional manner. • The ability to take the supportive and helpful role.

• Particularly looking for Volunteers in Downpatrick area - Last Wednesday of Every month

Our groups are entirely volunteer run and led. They are in the front line of engagement with local people, with an extensive programme of walks, talks, day trips and indoor meetings for the group and members of the public. We're looking for people who are passionate about connecting people with nature and helping in the smooth running of the group. By becoming part of the group, you'll have the chance to use your existing skills (and learn new ones) to build the group and make it an ever more important aspect of local RSPB connections with people. The roles available will depend on the group and can include:

• Publicity and / or social media
• Website editor
• Helping with organising and running events

Being a community group, you'll also have the opportunity to make new friends, have fun, and know you are enthusing people about the joys of nature. All you need is a willingness and ability to help with one or more of the varied activities of our RSPB groups, and able to give a minimum of a few hours each month. We have groups across the UK (see our map to find your nearest group). Feel free to contact your local group direct or go along to an event or two to find out more. If you can't find a group near you and would like to help set one up, please click on "Ask a question".

Notes: This opportunity is not based on a reserve and may not include practical conservation work. It is also not suitable for work experience. However it can usually be customised to your skills, experience and requirements depending on your situation.

We are committed to better reflecting society within our workforce and are keen to encourage more applications from people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities and younger people.

Jumble Sales Organiser Volunteer

Would you like to raise funds, have fun and join a super team of volunteers who together make our Jumble Sales in Thatcham a great success?  As Jumble Sales Organiser you would be helping to make everything run smoothly for the team.

Time Expectations:  1 Saturday every other month (plus preparations)

This could be a shared role and tasks may include:

· Booking the hall for future Jumbles

· Contacting the Jumble team before events to check availability

· Set up stalls, running a stall and packing away at the end

· Collecting any items/resources needed from the centre the day before

Without volunteers, Cats Protection Berkshire Cat Centre simply wouldn't exist. Our amazing, friendly volunteers are a diverse group with a shared love of cats who fit volunteering around their home lives and personal commitments.

We're often looking to welcome new volunteers to join our brilliant team. As well as meeting great people and making an incredible difference to the cats of Berkshire.

Please note:  Although we do welcome everyone, unfortunately our centre is not set up to accommodate young volunteers under the age of 18, including those on the Duke of Edinburgh programme.

Full training and support will be given for all roles.  We look forward to hearing from you!

At WWT we believe the best way for people to understand and connect to wetlands is to experience them, so we bring awe-inspiring nature up close and let it do the talking. People feel part of something amazing and are motivated to make a difference.

By providing an excellent visitor experience as a member of the Welcome and Information Team, you will be encouraging our visitors to make the most of their visit to Martin Mere centre, and to understand and support our work to save wetlands for wildlife and people. The role will include:

• Acting as the first point of contact for all visitors to Martin Mere, providing them with a warm welcome along with appropriate information to aid their visit.
• Conducting specific talks to the public – scripts and training are provided.
• Conducting activities such as opening the moth traps and using props to actively engage with visitors
• Conducting guided walks of the grounds and the reserve when required – training is provided.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You'll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Volunteer positions currently available in Cheshire

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:

· Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support

· Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes

· Raise concerns

· Keep detailed notes and records

· Make a real difference to someone’s life

Hospital Visitor Volunteer

Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.  The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake. 

As a hospital volunteer, you might:

• hold drop-in sessions
• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
• share information
• assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.

To find out more click “Apply Now”.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.