Activity volunteer volunteer roles in hockley, west midlands

Activity Lead Volunteer

Location: West Midlands

Hours: 2-4 hours per week

Closing date: 27 June 2025

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As Volunteer Activity Lead, you will provide support to the Community Liaison Coordinator to deliver activities to clients we support in West Midlands.

We provide support to people seeking asylum in West Midlands while their asylum claims are being considered. Being new to communities, our clients need additional help to reduce isolation and help develop their confidence. We do that by organising activities that keep them busy, engaged and connected with locally available services. Your role is to help the Community Liaison Coordinator help deliver and manage those activities – you will encourage clients to come, design posters, help foster a friendly and non-judgmental environment. You will help with outings and proactively include clients in brainstorming ideas on activities that will make the most positive difference in their lives.

Your role is crucial in complementing existing Migrant Help services by helping provide additional opportunities for clients to improve their skills and develop confidence.

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What you will do

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• Organise and deliver activities to people seeking asylum in agreed locations weekly
• Promote a safe and non-judgemental environment for people joining activities
• Organise and adapt activities centring clients’ voice
• Communicate with other volunteers and Community Liaison Coordinator to deliver activities smoothly
• Together with community liaison coordinator, research and reach out to external organisations to better variety and quality of sessions to our clients
• Encourage clients’ independence and provide words of encouragement, empathy
• Together with Migrant Help staff organise themed events for our clients (for example, Refugee Week, religious celebrations and etc)
• Pack and store items securely in agreed locations
• Organise and support outings for clients.
• Create interactive posters to encourage clients to engage in activities
• Help promote and advertise activities to clients and external organisations
• Be a point of contact for clients during activities and forward any concerns to community liaison coordinator
• Regularly communicate with community liaison coordinator and openly share successes, challenges and ideas on improvement.
• Provide support to other facilitators delivering activities

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What we expect from you

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• Complete relevant induction and training provided by Migrant Help
• Undergo a criminal conviction check (DBS, PVG or AccessNI).
• Commit to volunteering for a minimum of 6 months, at agreed times.
• Attend volunteer support sessions as required.
• Complete feedback forms when required highlighting any growth opportunities and honestly communicating what is not working well
• Adhere to confidentiality and safeguarding procedures
• Uphold Migrant Help’s values.
• Start volunteering at an agreed time and be punctual
• Complete all relevant documentation as required by volunteer coordinator
• Be open and understanding of different customs, values, and beliefs

​What you not be able to do

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• Volunteer with us if you are under 18.
• Exchange contact information with clients
• Buy gifts, food or lend or give/receive money to/from clients
• Carry out casework tasks, such as, complete benefits applications, liaise with local authorities or refer to other services or provide immigration advice
   

You will be an excellent candidate for this role if you

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• Have spare time to undertake volunteering on a regular basis
• Are willing to work with diverse range of people
• Are non-judgmental and inclusive
• Have a friendly and approachable nature
• Are reliable and punctual
• Are patient
• Have empathetic listening skills
• Are a keen learner
• Have access to a laptop or computer to use
• Are comfortable using computer or laptop for typing and sending emails, video calls.

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You will benefit from volunteering with us by

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• Gaining experience useful for your future CVs and cover letters 
• Being able to provide a volunteering reference to your future employer or educator 
• Being a part of dedicated and inclusive service 
• Developing new skills 
• Being more aware of immigration and asylum systems in the UK 
• Having reasonable expenses reimbursed 
• Having regular check ins and supervision to support your volunteering experience and growth
   

About Migrant Help

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Migrant Help is a leading charity that has been established for over 50 years and delivers a range of support and advice services to migrants across the UK. Our vision is for a global society that protects vulnerable migrants, treats them with respect and enables them to reach their full potential. 

We place a high value on employees in relation to the work that they do and the benefits the organisation offers, with an ethos of being a Great Place to Work. 

At Migrant Help, we foster a culture in which equality, diversity and inclusion are recognised, valued and encouraged. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, we match your skills with the needs of our organisation. As long as you share our values, vision and goals. We welcome applications from candidates regardless of their age, religion or belief, race, gender reassignment, disability, sexual orientation, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity.

Migrant Help is committed to safeguarding those we provide a service to, applicants will have to undergo strict vetting procedures throughout different stages of the recruitment process.

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How to apply

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To apply for this role, please click on the 'use this link to apply' button and complete the online application form.

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Lead the Way: Become Our Volunteer Virtual Community Activities Coordinator at SUNSHINE!

Are you a tech-savvy community builder with a passion for connecting people online? SUNSHINE—a soon-to-be registered charity dedicated to combating loneliness and building stronger communities—is seeking a visionary Virtual Community Activities Coordinator to pioneer our digital engagement initiatives. In this role, you will work closely with our Founder and CEO to conceive, plan, and run interactive online events that spark genuine connections and brighten lives.

About SUNSHINE

At SUNSHINE, our mission is to illuminate lives by forging genuine connections and nurturing vibrant communities. As a grassroots initiative in its early days, we’re laying the groundwork to officially register as a charity. Our aim is to deliver moments of joy and fellowship through both face-to-face and digital platforms, ensuring that even those feeling isolated can experience belonging. Your expertise in curating engaging virtual events will be crucial in amplifying our impact and extending our reach.

Your Role as Virtual Community Activities Coordinator:

As our Volunteer Virtual Community Activities Coordinator, you will be the digital catalyst behind SUNSHINE’s online initiatives. Your mission is to design meaningful virtual events—from interactive meet-ups and creative workshops to conversational cafés—that bring isolated individuals together in the digital space.

Key Areas of Impact:

• Digital Engagement Strategy: Craft and implement a comprehensive plan to host regular at least monthly virtual events that resonate with diverse audiences, addressing themes such as creativity, storytelling, and community support.

• Online Event Planning & Execution: Organise and oversee the entire lifecycle of virtual activities—from conceptualisation and technical setup to facilitation and post-event evaluation—ensuring that every session offers value and connection.

• Volunteer Coordination & Mentoring: Recruit, train, and guide a team of digital volunteers who will assist with event moderation, technical support, and community engagement. Empower them with the tools and insights needed to foster a warm online environment.

• Resource & Technology Management: Leverage and manage digital platforms (like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or interactive web forums) to deliver seamless virtual experiences. Identify innovative tools and trends to elevate the quality of our online activities.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Constantly explore new formats—such as breakout sessions, digital creative workshops, or themed conversation circles—that enhance interactivity and keep our digital community vibrant and engaged.

What We’re Looking For

We’re searching for a proactive, forward-thinking leader who is enthusiastic about shaping digital connections. The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven Digital Engagement Experience: A background in organizing online events, community management, or digital content creation—experience in start-ups or non-profit environments is a plus.

• Creative & Strategic Thinking: The ability to design innovative virtual experiences that maintain engagement while addressing the challenges of digital isolation.

• Excellent Communication Skills: Clear, empathetic, and inspiring communication—both in writing and verbally—to ensure a smooth and inclusive virtual atmosphere.

• Tech-Savvy & Adaptive: Proficiency with current digital platforms and a willingness to experiment with emerging tools to enhance community participation.

• Passion for Community Impact: A genuine commitment to social change and the belief that digital initiatives can create real-world connections and drive transformative change.

Why Join SUNSHINE as Our Virtual Community Activities Coordinator?

Taking on the role of Volunteer Virtual Community Activities Coordinator is more than just managing digital events—it’s about helping shape a movement dedicated to inclusivity and well-being online. By joining our leadership team, you will:

• Shape Our Digital Future: Influence key decisions that build and strengthen our online community, ensuring that our digital initiatives are effective and accessible.

• Drive Innovation: Be at the forefront of pioneering creative virtual solutions that enhance engagement and extend our community’s reach.

• Grow Professionally: Expand your skills in digital community management and event facilitation while working in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment.

• Experience Deep Fulfillment: Enjoy the satisfaction of directly contributing to a cause that transforms lives and brings hope to those battling loneliness.

Ready to Connect the Digital World?

If you’re excited to craft and drive virtual initiatives that bring people together and use your digital leadership to combat loneliness, we want you on our team. Join SUNSHINE as our Volunteer Virtual Community Activities Coordinator and help us build a brighter, more connected future—one online event at a time.

Welcome to SUNSHINE—where every virtual connection lights up lives and communities.

***Please note that this is an opportunity based in Nottingham (shire) in the United Kingdom and we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***

Age UK Notts are seeking individuals who would like to be considered as a volunteer for our Companion Service.

Volunteers will be supporting people remotely, in their own homes and in the community within Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and ideally, we ask all applicants to provide a minimum of 1 hour volunteering a week.

The companion service volunteer can choose to be:

• A companion telephone/video caller                                                               

• A companion within the person’s home

• A companion outside the person’s home

• Or a combination of all three.

Examples of the type of support the service offers include:

• Telephone / video calls for an older person/s on a regular basis at a mutually agreed time for a friendly chat. 

• Supporting an older person/s hobbies and interests or simply chatting with them in their own home on a regular basis.

• Supporting with digital access & building confidence skills & motivation to access the opportunities of the internet.

• Supporting the person outside of their home e.g., by accompanying them on a walk, to the shops, to a café, garden centre, theatre or cinema or other social activities / community groups. 

• Where appropriate, supporting the older person to access other services through information and signposting or referring to the Companion Service Coordinator for support.

We are looking for the following skills/interests:

• Individuals with a genuine interest in the wellbeing of older people who are committed to volunteering on a regular basis.

• Commitment to complete our Volunteer Report Form accurately and regularly. 

• Ability to travel for visits in the local community either by car or public transport for those volunteers who choose to participate in this type of activity.

• Digital literacy for those volunteers who choose to participate in this type of activity.

Please do note, however, that at the moment we are not looking for Volunteer Telephone Companions.

We are looking for volunteers with good daytime availability in specific areas of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Please contact the volunteering team for further information on where specifically in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Birmingham - Saturday 20th September 2025

Volunteering at Memory Walk is an incredible experience. You and hundreds of others across the country will help us to run 12 inspiring walks that raise vital funds, providing help and hope to people affected by dementia. Memory Walks simply couldn't happen without incredible volunteers, and we do our best to make it a day to remember. 

There are three roles to choose from when volunteering at a Memory Walk:

• Event Site - Volunteer roles include selling merchandise and handing out medals at the finish line.
• Route Marshal - Route volunteers are essential to guide walkers and keep enthusiasm high. All route marshals will be paired, so you'll never be alone on the route.
• Back Markers - Back markers have the unique advantage of walking the whole route alongside our participants, taking down route signage and releasing route marshals along the way.

You can expect:

• A fantastic day outdoors in your local community. 
• A face-to-face briefing from the Events Team before the event starts where you'll chat through your role for the day. There'll be plenty of time to ask any questions you may have.
• A chance to explore the event site and hang a tag on the Memory Walk Memory Tree in honour of your loved ones.
• Satisfaction, knowing that you're helping to raise vital funds and providing help and hope to people affected by dementia. 
• Volunteer arrival time is typically 8:45am.
• You’ll need to be able to commit to around 6 hours of volunteering at the event. Don’t worry if you can’t stick around for the whole day, just make sure to get in touch with us to let us know your availability.

The Great Autistic CIC is Newly-Founded and exists to tackle rising mental health concerns, hypermobility, inadequate support systems, limited awareness and inclusion, educational barriers and community disconnection faced by neurodiverse individuals, particularly those with autism and learning difficulties. 

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We believe that every neurodiverse brain has its own superpowers. Our organisation turns challenges into opportunities by offering tailored educational support, creative social activities like art clubs and nature walks, and strong advocacy that gives voice to those with autism. We’re a community built on lived experience and on a mission to help every unique individual shine.  

”

Are you a creative whiz with a knack for web design? Do you want to make a real difference in your community?

The Great Autistic CIC is looking for a passionate and talented Volunteer Web Designer to join our team! We're a friendly bunch dedicated to supporting the autistic community, and we need your help to make our online presence shine.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Help us create a beautiful and user-friendly website: We want our website to be a welcoming and informative space for everyone.
• Work on exciting projects: You'll get to use your design skills on real projects that make a difference.
• Learn and grow: We're a supportive team, and you'll have the chance to develop your skills and learn new things.

What We're Looking For:

• Someone with a passion for web design: Whether you're a beginner or a pro, we'd love to hear from you!
• A friendly and reliable person: We're looking for someone who's easy to work with and committed to helping out.
• Someone who's kind, honest, and understanding: We value these qualities in all our volunteers.

What You'll Get:

• The chance to build your portfolio: Showcase your skills and experience with real-world projects.
• Connect with a wonderful community: Meet new people and make a difference.
• Feel good about giving back: Your work will help us support autistic individuals and their families.

Interested: please email us!!

and tell us a bit about yourself and why you'd like to volunteer with us!

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:

· Helping with event preparation

· Manning checkpoints

· Walking support

· First-aid support

· Marshals

· Support drivers

· Helping with community stalls

We are looking for people who are:

· Warm and non-judgemental

· Willing to learn about the work of YBTC

· Able to communicate with a range of different groups

· Good team players, able to work with other staff/volunteers

· Reliable and able to commit to agreed requirements

We can offer you the following:

· Induction and ongoing training

· Ongoing support and supervision in your role

· The opportunity to learn new skills

· YBTC commitment to health and safety

About Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity

Background

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.

 About the opportunity

This role involves supporting with events in your local area throughout the year.

There is no minimum commitment for the role. Times will vary depending on the requirements of the event. You will be provided with an event brief beforehand to ensure you are happy with the requirements for that activity.

By volunteering you will:

• Be a valued member of the Charity
• Can work with dogs without lifelong commitment or costs associated with dog ownership
• Be able to meet like-minded people
• Gain practical experience in the field of canine care and welfare.
• Have fun by joining a friendly, enthusiastic, and supportive team of volunteers.

‘With out the continued hard work and support from our volunteers, we would not be able to provide our clients with our life changing dogs’​

What is involved

• Raising awareness of Canine Partners and what we do by speaking to event attendees
• Promoting fundraising activities at the event (selling raffle tickets etc)
• Handing out leaflets, taking donations
• Set up and pack away on event day
• Passing on any leads to the Community Fundraising team

What we require from you

• Age 18 or over
• Access to your own transport with flexibility to visit various locations
• Polite, confident, and personable manner
• Excellent customer service skills
• Most opportunities require standing for the duration of the session and/or being in a busy environment. Please advise us if you have any concerns about this, and we will do our best to support you.

Support and Training

• Payment of expenditure such as mileage to and from an event.
• Dedicated point of contact in the fundraising team
• Pre-event briefings outlining the requirements of the event
• Volunteer clothing and ID badge
• Access to our volunteer portal with many resources for your use.
• Invitation to join our Official Canine Partners Community Facebook Group

Bring National Identities to Life: Volunteer Graphic Designer for the Loneliness Project at SUNSHINE

Are you a creative visionary with a passion for social impact and identity design? At SUNSHINE—a dynamic start-up charity dedicated to combating loneliness—we’re launching an innovative Loneliness Project that empowers participants to create their very own country in groups. We’re looking for an inspired Volunteer Graphic Designer who can craft visual elements such as flags, coats of arms, and other national identity images to help these groups bring their new countries to life.

About the Loneliness Project

Our Loneliness Project is designed to spark confidence, creativity, and meaningful connections. By inviting participants to work together in creating a unique country—from designing a flag to developing a coat of arms—this project helps individuals build a strong sense of identity, purpose, and community. With your design expertise, you’ll play a crucial role in turning imaginative ideas into visual symbols that represent hope, collaboration, and unity.

Your Role as Volunteer Graphic Designer

As a key creative force in the Loneliness Project, you will:

• Design National Symbols: Create inspiring designs for flags, coats of arms, and other identity elements that will represent each group’s unique country. This will be based off the participants ideas.

• Develop Visual Identities: Collaborate with project facilitators and participants to translate their ideas into cohesive visual identities that reflect their aspirations and cultural narratives.

• Produce Promotional Materials: Help create engaging promotional content, including posters and social media posts, to showcase the project and attract further community support.

• Bring Concepts to Life: Use your technical expertise in graphic design software (like Adobe Creative Suite or equivalent) to produce high-quality visuals that spark dialogue and connection.

You can volunteer on a one-off basis or work with us more regularly, depending on your availability and interest.

What We’re Looking For

We need a design enthusiast who is passionate about art and social change. The ideal candidate will have:

• A Strong Portfolio: Demonstrated experience in graphic design with examples that highlight your creativity and versatility in visual storytelling.

• Technical Expertise: Proficiency in industry-standard design software and a flair for innovative visual expression.

• Empathy & Collaboration: A genuine passion for using design to empower individuals, with excellent communication skills to work closely with project facilitators and participants.

• Flexibility & Initiative: A proactive approach in a start-up environment where every design contributes to a movement toward connection and empowerment.

Why Join the Loneliness Project as Our Graphic Designer?

Taking on this role means more than volunteering your design skills—it’s about becoming a vital contributor to a groundbreaking social initiative. By joining our project, you will:

• Shape a Unique Vision: Bring to life the national identities of groups working to overcome loneliness, and help them build confidence and community.

• Expand Your Creative Horizons: Enhance your portfolio with innovative projects that merge creative design with social empowerment.

• Drive Social Change: See the immediate impact of your work as it fosters genuine connections and transforms lives.

• Be Part of a Movement: Collaborate with passionate individuals committed to creating a more connected and compassionate society at SUNSHINE.

Ready to Design a Nation of Connection?

If you’re excited to use your creative talents to help participants build a vibrant, symbolic identity—and in doing so, combat loneliness—then we want you on our team. Join the Loneliness Project as our Volunteer Graphic Designer and help us bring a world of connection, creativity, and hope to life.

Welcome to SUNSHINE—where every design lights the way to a more united future.

Hours: Variable – depending on individual circumstances and what people can do

Location: Variable – we are looking to extend our reach of peer support walks throughout Yorkshire

Main Tasks:

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:

· Support our regular wellbeing/peer support walks

· Welcome participants and help them feel comfortable, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere

· Encourage conversations among participants, offering a listening ear

· Be attentive to the well-being of all participants during the walk

· Offer information on YBTC services

· Attending occasional training sessions or volunteer meetings organised by YBTC

We are looking for people who are:

· Are warm and non-judgemental

· Reliability – are punctual and committed to scheduled walks

· Collaborative mindset to work effectively with staff and volunteers

· Basic physical fitness to complete the walks, awareness of the needs of participants with

different mobility/health conditions

We can offer you the following:

· Full induction and ongoing training

· Ongoing support and supervision in your role

· Opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people

· The satisfaction of making a positive impact on those affected by brain tumours

Background

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 tumours 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.

We are looking for up to ten UK university students to join our volunteer Student Ambassadors team and help Ygam achieve its social purpose by reaching out to students at university. This will be achieved by advising Ygam on the needs of students, supporting with content development, organising activities at your campus, and join us at events to raise awareness of gaming and gambling harms.

We are seeking individuals who are outgoing, with a confident personality. You will enjoy engaging with other students and be able to advise us on the experiences of students with regards to gaming and gambling.We’d love to hear from students with an interest in mental health, psychology, content development, and gaming. 

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.

A bit about this role

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help our feline friends. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances in Mid-Sussex RH15, RH16, RH17, BN6, BN45.
• Providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

A bit more information about this role and the team

• This is a flexible role. The amount of time you offer can work to your availability and convenience.
• There may be opportunities for your activities to be fully remote and/or admin based if you'd prefer.
• You will need your own transport if you wish to attend events, ideally a car or van since items, stock and equipment will usually be needed.
• We ask that you complete training to support you in your role. This can be completed online if you have access to the internet and the necessary device (computer/laptop/tablet etc). Support can be offered or paper versions of much of the training if needed.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds through events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated group of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Good organisational skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• The ability to prioritise and delegate
• An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly
• Knowledge of your local community

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

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.

If you can spend time with us, we can offer lots of opportunities to help our cadets and gain your own skills and experiences too.

We meet twice a week and we’re always looking for volunteers who are willing to try their hand at anything. You could find yourself teaching skills, running activities, or providing encouragement and moral support. If you have specialist skills, we can use them. If you want to learn new skills like rock climbing or gliding, we can train you.

Benefits of being a volunteer

Being a volunteer is rewarding and has a lot of different benefits.

• learn skills in a range of areas
• develop leadership qualities
• personal development
• gain qualifications in areas like mountain leadership, first aid and NVQs

Whatever you decide to focus on, all volunteers gain a huge sense of achievement from helping young people realise their potential.

To be a volunteer you need to

• Be aged 20 years or more (uniformed officers serve up to age 65)
• have lived in the UK for a minimum of 3 years
• commit to a certain number of hours
• understand young people and their needs
• be patient, responsible and kind
• have a good level of fitness, but by no means be an athlete

We know our volunteers may have families, jobs and hobbies, so we can be flexible and work around other areas of your lives. All we expect in return is clear communication, good organisation and commitment to your squadron.

You do not need

• a military background or experience
• experience of working with young people
• relevant skills like flying or gliding

If you choose to progress into a uniformed role, we provide uniforms and all the training you’ll require and there are opportunities to move up through the ranks as an officer or senior non-commissioned officer (SNCO). You’ll be guided through the process of interviews at Wing HQs and Regional HQs.

While our volunteers don’t get paid, if you progress to be an officer or non-commissioned officer you can claim for up to 28 days’ volunteer allowance.

Typical joining process

• Submit an expression of interest
• Visit the squadron
• You’ll have an informal interview (usually when you make the first visit)
• Invited to complete an online application
• Get access to the RAF Air Cadets online system to complete the final forms
• Have a DBS check

After your DBS is successful, you’ll be able to attend the squadron and help with activities on a 6-month probation. During this time you’ll complete our mandatory Adult Volunteer Induction Course. After your 6 months, you can then attend external activities too.

The time from initial enquiry through to starting as a volunteer can vary depending on the availability of current volunteers, but on average it takes around three months. This is due to the enquiries that need to be made, including a DBS, as part of our safeguarding checks.

Prospect Research Volunteer

About Plantlife 

Plantlife is the global charity working to enhance, protect, restore and celebrate the wild plants and fungi that are essential to all life on earth. With two in five plant species at risk of extinction, biodiversity loss is now the fastest it’s ever been and Plantlife’s work has never been more vital. Plantlife champions and accelerates conservation action, working at the heart of a global network of individuals and organisations, to influence and inspire landowners and land managers, public and private bodies, governments and local communities. As time begins to run out, Plantlife’s position as the global voice for wild plants and fungi will help to bring lasting and positive change to our natural world – for everyone’s sake. 

About the role 

We are seeking a self-motivated and detail-oriented Prospect Research Volunteer to support our fundraising efforts by identifying and evaluating funding opportunities from trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies. This role is vital to helping us grow our income and deliver impactful conservation projects. 

Note - In line with GDPR best practice, volunteers who we offer the opportunity to, will be asked to provide details of two suitable referees.  Please ensure you have known referees for more than 6 months and they are not a partner, close relative, or Plantlife employee. Former or current work colleagues, friends, and neighbours that have known you for more than 6 months are some examples that would be fine. 

Location:  Home office.

Benefits

You will be a valuable part of our Partnerships Team and will have the support of a dedicated volunteer manager.

Volunteer Manager: Beth Webb – Partnerships Manager 

Opportunities to gain experience and skills in the following areas:  

• Insight into the fundraising and development function within a conservation charity. 

• Experience in research and prospect development. 

• Opportunity to contribute meaningfully to environmental conservation efforts. 

• References and recognition for your contribution. 

• Flexible volunteering schedule tailored to your availability. 

• You will be able to develop your knowledge of conservation of wild plants, lichens and fungi. 

• As a volunteer you will have the opportunity to take part in training and development opportunities as well as our programme of member and volunteer events.

Skills / experience / interests required for the role: 

• Strong on-line research and analytical skills. 

• Excellent written communication and ability to summarise complex information clearly. 

• Good organisational skills and attention to detail. 

• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively. 

• Familiarity with the charity or conservation sector is desirable, but not essential. 

• Experience with databases or online research tools (e.g., 360Giving, Charity Commission, FundsOnline) is a plus. 

• Interest in and natural enthusiasm for conservation, wild plants, and fungi, and an affinity with the aims of Plantlife 

• Access to a computer or laptop and an internet connection will be required for this role.

Time commitment: We would like a volunteer who could spend a minimum of 3 hours per week on their volunteering. This can be done flexibly around other commitments and outside of the usual 9-5 hours.

Expenses: Travel is not expected for this role, however expenses will be reimbursed for any travel we ask you to do based on public transport cost or mileage at Plantlife standard rates for volunteers. Expenses must be agreed in advance with your volunteer manager.