Activity Volunteer Volunteer Roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Prison-based volunteers are the backbone of Fine Cell Work (FCW). Supported by the Fine Cell Work programmes team and by other staff at the FCW office, they teach and administer FCW stitching groups in prisons.
Prison volunteers work in teams to organise classes and teach our stitchers, as well as providing groups information to the prison and to the FCW office. The precise mix of skills will vary from prison to prison.
Volunteering in prison for Fine Cell Work requires ideally a good level of needlework skill (or a willingness to learn), some teaching experience and/or experience of working with socially-excluded groups. Volunteers must be patient and non-judgemental in order to work effectively.
This document describes the role of prison volunteering teams as a whole. Individuals who do not have all the skills described below may find a role alongside other volunteers who do.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
All our Benefits Advocates play an integral role within our Information and Advice team and last year helped us to identify over £2.5 million in unclaimed welfare benefits entitlement for older people in the county. This money is life changing for our clients; improving quality of life and wellbeing, and supporting local services
We are looking for volunteers who are patient, sensitive and reliable, to assist older people to complete benefit forms such as Attendance Allowance. Appointments are usually in the older person's own home but can sometimes take place over the telephone. Full training and ongoing support are provided by our friendly and knowledgeable team.
Our volunteers will also raise awareness of and promote Age UK Devon services to clients, and record details of any other queries or concerns so that our Advisors can follow up with clients.
Skills required for this role are:
· Ability to empathise with others.
· Good verbal and written communication skills.
· Understanding of confidentiality.
· Patience, sensitivity, and reliability.
· Ability to respond appropriately to different and sometimes difficult situations.
· Working as a team member, referring to other team members when appropriate.
· Ability to work unsupervised and manage appointments.
· Good computer skills.
· Knowledge of the Benefits System (training will be provided).
Age UK Devon’s aim is to improve the lives of older people in Devon through delivering services and activities, promoting wellbeing and health, increase independence and access to local services as well as supporting families and carers - enabling people to get the most out of life.
Our volunteers donate their time to enable us to provide fantastic added value to our services and activities and bring a wealth of skills and knowledge to our organisation.
Our aim is to help you enjoy your role and to gain personal satisfaction on your volunteer journey with us – can you be the person we need to help us in supporting and making a positive difference to people in later life in the county?
If you would like an informal discussion about this role or have any queries, please contact Sarah Gunn – Advice and Wellbeing Manager (see our website for details)
Or if you would like to apply please visit Age UK Devon for more information on the role and how to apply.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Develop your fitness, practical skills, and improve your mental health while participating in conservation of habitats and green space. Gain valuable work experience, where you can choose to work towards an AQA certificate.
Grow Wild volunteers have been called the ‘next generation of naturalists’ in the Richmond area. We go weekly into the local green spaces at Ham Avenues / The Copse, and maintain the green spaces so that humans and wildlife can share them.
We particularly welcome young people and those who experience barriers in accessing green spaces and volunteering opportunities. The two-hour-long sessions are accessible, and are an energising, communal way of connecting with others and nature.
We provide support, induction, and are happy to make the activities more accessible for you. Let us know what you need to make the most of this opportunity.
We engage with local green spaces and nature to support and enhance the lives of our communities in Richmond, Hounslow, and the Crane Valley.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our weekly art class provides space and opportunities for adults with learning disabilities to express themselves through creative activities. The group has diverse interests and needs, and we are looking for a volunteer to join the sessions to support people to get the most out of each sessions.
Your role could include setting up activity areas, working 121 with individuals, or in small groups. The class is led by an experienced tutor, and some members of the group also receive support from their support workers.
We are based in a multi-purpose community centre near North Dulwich. You will be part of a small and friendly staff and volunteer team that are all committed to supporting adults with learning disabilities to fully participate in the activities that are important to them.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to join our team as a Volunteer for Community Events. In this role, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact by attending and facilitating community events for LGBTQIA+ Muslim groups in Manchester. Some of the responsibilities include, but aren't limited to:
● Assist the Community Trustee in researching and planning events for the hub in Manchester, London and Scotland
● Communicate with members on our Discord channel to coordinate attendance and activities
● Liaise with speakers, performers, and workshop facilitators to ensure their needs are met and their contributions align with the goals and values of the community.
● Set up and take down meeting rooms including workshop materials, refreshments and other ops as required
● Engage with attendees, volunteers, and stakeholders during events to ensure a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
● Record attendance collect feedback and evaluate the success of each event, making recommendations for improvement.
● Assist workshop leaders and Trustees in delivering activities
● Assist with special projects and initiatives as directed by the Trustees
How much commitment is required?
We are flexible around your schedule. However, the following commitments are in place for volunteers.
● Attend monthly meetings to update on tasks, progress etc.
● Aim to attend all other planning meetings as necessary
● Attend all Hidayah Hub events
● Attend other Hidayah events where geographically possible
● Add to and maintain the administration of our file-sharing system ‘Google Drive’ to ensure it’s up to date with clear records, templates and forms
● Check and respond to emails in a timely manner
● Contribute to the communications group (via Discord) and stay up to date with Hidayah developments
● Keep up to date with Hidayah communication and organisational developments
What do we expect from a volunteer?
Qualities:
● Strong commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTQIA+ Muslim individuals.
● Knowledge or understanding of the specific challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ Muslims in Manchester.
● Excellent organizational and time management skills.
● Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
● Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
● Flexibility and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of the community.
● Previous experience in events or coordination is preferable but not mandatory.
● Join Hidayah Membership and Hidayah Discord server
● Participating and contributing to discussions on the Hidayah Discord server
● Read all Hidayah policies, keeping up to date with any changes
● Read, understand and agree with the constitution of Hidayah (available on our website)
● Working knowledge of Google Suite, Microsoft, as well as project management, web and comms tools
Personality:
● A self-starter who can volunteer with minimal supervision
● Friendliness, enthusiasm, dedication, responsiveness, flexibility and eagerness in supporting the aims, vision and mission of Hidayah
Personal Skills:
● Confidence taking the lead with plans and ideas at Trustee meetings
● Ability to resolving conflict situations if needed
● Professionalism in all situations
Please ensure you do not have a conflict of interest with your current role and check this prior to applying for this role.
Benefits to volunteering with Hidayah
Volunteering with Hidayah brings a range of a benefits such as:
● Contributing to Hidayah’s cause
● Supporting vulnerable communities
● Connecting with like-minded, passionate people
● Experience working in community events
● Development of professional networking skills
● Travel expenses reimbursed (capped at £20)
Our mission is to provide support and welfare for LGBTQI+ Muslims
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ref: V224 | Support Group Volunteer | Wolseley
We’re looking for Support Group Volunteers over the age of 18 years old, based at Wolseley Business Park, Wolseley Close, Plymouth, Devon, PL2 3BY.
You’ll be volunteering 3 out of 4 Wednesday mornings per month, from 10am until 1pm
As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group. The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.
The volunteer will be
· A people person, with good listening skills
· A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people
· Good at putting people at ease
· Reliable and organised
· Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke
· IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies
A DBS check is required for this role.
Interested in this role?
Find out more by downloading the role description for the Support Group Volunteer role.
If you are interested in this role, please complete click apply.
About Us
Stroke Association. Rebuilding lives after stroke.
When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down. And so does a part of you. That’s because a stroke happens in the brain, the control centre for who we are and what we can do. It happens every five minutes in the UK and changes lives instantly. Recovery is tough, but with the right specialist support and a ton of courage and determination, the brain can adapt.
We believe everyone deserves to live the best life they can after stroke. And it’s a team effort to get there.
We provide specialist support, fund critical research and campaign to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives.
We’re working to improve the diversity of our team. Because we know that individuality leads to a richer experience for our people and better support for those affected by stroke.
We strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. And we’re particularly looking to increase the number of applications from those with lived experience of stroke and those from under-represented communities.
Every five minutes, stroke destroys lives. Help us rebuild them and join our team.
To help us deliver our strategy and make a real difference, we are looking to recruit talented people to a number of new roles.
If you would like to support stroke survivors to rebuild their lives, we want to hear from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ref: V225 | Support Group Volunteer | Maldon
We’re looking for Support Group Volunteers over the age of 18 years old, based at Fullbridge Church, 27 Fullbridge, Maldon, Essex, CM9 4LE.
You’ll be volunteering fortnightly on a Thursday from 10.15am-12.15pm.
As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group. The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.
The volunteer will be
· A people person, with good listening skills
· A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people
· Good at putting people at ease
· Reliable and organised
· Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke
· IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies
A DBS check is required for this role.
Interested in this role?
Find out more by downloading the role description for the Support Group Volunteer role.
If you are interested in this role, please complete our application form on our website.
About Us
Stroke Association. Rebuilding lives after stroke.
When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down. And so does a part of you. That’s because a stroke happens in the brain, the control centre for who we are and what we can do. It happens every five minutes in the UK and changes lives instantly. Recovery is tough, but with the right specialist support and a ton of courage and determination, the brain can adapt.
We believe everyone deserves to live the best life they can after stroke. And it’s a team effort to get there.
We provide specialist support, fund critical research and campaign to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives.
We’re working to improve the diversity of our team. Because we know that individuality leads to a richer experience for our people and better support for those affected by stroke.
We strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply. And we’re particularly looking to increase the number of applications from those with lived experience of stroke and those from under-represented communities.
Every five minutes, stroke destroys lives. Help us rebuild them and join our team.
To help us deliver our strategy and make a real difference, we are looking to recruit talented people to a number of new roles.
If you would like to support stroke survivors to rebuild their lives, we want to hear from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Best Foot Forward provides a series of free, accessible, guided health walks around open spaces in Nottingham. Walks are designed to encourage a healthy lifestyle through exercise and social interaction. The walks offer the opportunity to improve health, make new friends, have fun and get to know your local environment. This volunteer role offers you the chance to make a difference to an older person's life, and ensure your volunteering experience is a fulfilling and positive one.
Tasks you may be involved with include the following:
- Giving a brief talk before the walk to make sure everyone is prepared, and welcoming new walkers
- Leading and managing walks, usually jointly with other walk leaders (including ‘back marking or middle marking’ as well as leading at the front.
- Making sure walks are welcoming, friendly, enjoyable and safe
- Trouble shooting and dealing with problems on walks, with the support of your scheme coordinator
- Providing information about other Age UK Notts services and other walks offered by the scheme, and basic information about how to keep active
- Making sure paperwork such as registration forms and registers are completed
Skills and interests required are:
- Friendly, welcoming and empowering with good communication skills
- Knowlegdeable about the basics of the benefits of walking and physical activity
- Reliable, punctual and well-organised
- Ability to volunteer independently but with guidance and support
- Confident at speaking in front of small groups and able to take control and be assertive when needed
- Able to provide basic paperwork punctually and accuate
We are looking for volunteers who have availability to support our walks across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire which are held every day except for a Thursday
We are looking for volunteers who can support a minimum of one walk per week, every week (time and days tbc)
***Please note that we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***
Application Form
Interview
References will be taken
DBS check
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Midland Mencap seeks a passionate volunteer photographer/videographer to capture the energy and joy of our sports, health, and wellbeing community sessions in Birmingham or Walsall.
Help us showcase the positive impact of our services by documenting participants' stories and achievements.
Share their smiles, successes, and inspire others to get involved with Midland Mencap!
What would I be doing?
Attend sports, health, and wellbeing sessions: Be present at designated sessions to capture content.
Capture photos and videos: Document activities, participant interactions, and highlight positive moments.
Tell visual stories: Use photo and video to convey the spirit of the sessions and the impact they have on participants.
Potential for interviews: Conduct short interviews with participants to gather testimonials.
Collaborate with the marketing team: Share content for use in promotional materials, social media, and the website.
What do I need?
For this role you will need
· Access to own digital camera equipment or modern smartphone
· Able to travel independently in the Birmingham / West Midlands area
· Friendly, calm, and patient
· Accepting of people who may be different to you
· Happy to chat and a good listener
· Willing to learn and act within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap
· An enhanced DBS check and references will be required
When and where do you need me?
· 2 - 4 times a month at sessions across Birmingham or Walsall
What’s in it for me?
As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:
· Gain valuable digital media experience.
· The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities
and their family carers
· Any training and development that is needed
· The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team
· Support within your role
· Agreed out-of-pocket expenses
· Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution
· Positive wellbeing from doing something great
· Improve career opportunities by adding your volunteer role to a CV
To campaign for and deliver accessible and inclusive community health and wellbeing support services for individuals, families, and carers.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you live in Wales and want to gain valuable skills, have new experiences, and support vulnerable people?
We are offering 1 young people aged 18-25 the opportunity to volunteer for up to 11 months with the Swedish Red Cross in Stockholm. The programme will run from September 2024 – August 2025.
You will be working on a range of projects, which will give you the chance to explore the different kinds of social action that the Swedish Red Cross undertake in Stockholm. This is a great opportunity to get involved in these projects and find out what you are interested in. For more details on the role and the projects available, have a look at the role description. The main thing we want to see is your motivation for this placement!
The Swedish Red Cross Youth is excited to welcome two volunteers in collaboration with British Red Cross this fall. This opportunity offers volunteers the chance to contribute to the vital work of the Swedish Red Cross Youth in addressing the needs of youth in socio-economically vulnerable areas and strengthening the capacity of our volunteers nationwide and will also offer you an opportunity to volunteer in our breakfast clubs, homework help groups, support chats, tutoring sessions and other member meetings. The placement is in central Stockholm, at the Swedish Red Cross HQ. As a Volunteer in this programme, you will play a crucial role in supporting the activities coordinated by the Red Cross Youth, gaining valuable experience in community development, crisis management, and international collaboration. Your efforts will contribute to creating positive forums for young people in Sweden to network and foster a sense of community and empowerment.
Please note that only young people based in Wales can apply for this role. We are especially interested in applications from those who are from low socio-economic backgrounds, are carers or are care experienced, have accessed free school meals, are refugees or asylum seekers and those with disabilities or additional needs.
The closing date for applications is Wednesday 1 May 2024.
Interviews will take place online with shortlisted candidates.
Successful applicants will ideally satisfy any one of the following criteria:
- Low household income (under £26,000).
- Are carers/have experience in the care system.
- Have accessed free school meals.
- Are a refugee.
- Are currently seeking asylum.
- Are disabled or have additional needs.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Help us SHINE and bring SUNSHINE into peoples lives!
We are SUNSHINE, a brand new grassroots community charity that is being set up. We are a small charity trying to make a BIG impact. SUNSHINE is dedicated to bringing people together, spreading joy and community spirit through a range of community-based initiatives that foster connections, enhance wellbeing and transform lives. We especially aim to target those that are at risk and hard to reach living with social isolation who will need access to our charity the most.
At SUNSHINE, we’re not just a charity; we’re a movement fuelled by compassion, dedication, and a shared vision. Our mission? To change the world - one smile at a time with passionate, dedicated and driven positive role models.
We can’t do it alone!!! We need your help!!!
We're looking for a volunteer to fill the role of Volunteering Coordinator, who can support our brand new small charity make a big difference by leading on setting up of our volunteering programme, including the recruitment, selection, induction and training of volunteers at SUNSHINE, ensuring we are an amazing charity to volunteer for that really values our volunteers and creates an amazing organisational culture and team spirit, creating a close knit team of dedicated, passionate and committed positive role models.
You will be responsible for;
- The first point of contact with potential volunteers, including sending out volunteer application packs and responding to application enquiries.
- Evaluate applications, conduct interviews, and analyse candidates’ skills and match them with suitable volunteer positions within SUNSHINE and also perform background checks and review references.
- To collaborate with managers and wider team to identify which departments need volunteers.
- To establish the necessary volunteer numbers and skills, ensuring a smooth coordination between volunteer activities and other roles within SUNSHINE.
- To maintain accurate records of volunteers’ activities and contributions.
- To retain volunteers, creating a positive experience, recognising their efforts, and addressing any concerns they may have.
- To handle administrative tasks related to volunteer scheduling, training, and reporting.
- To ensure that volunteers receive proper orientation, induction and training and that volunteers understand their responsibilities.
- To coordinate volunteer activities, monitor progress, and address any logistical issues.
If you are interested in joining SUNSHINE, please send your CV for an Application Form.
We look forward to hearing from you and thank you for your interest in SUNSHINE!
SUNSHINE
- Fostering Connections
- Enhancing Wellbeing
- Transforming Lives
SUNSHINE is London based dedicated to bringing people together, fostering connections, enhancing wellbeing and transforming lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
OxTrail, where a herd of life-sized and mini oxen will be grazing across the county waiting for visitors. Each ox sculpture will be individually designed by artists and local schools, making the herd truly unique.
Are you ready to join the Moo-Crew?
The main purpose of the OxTrail Hub Volunteer is to support the team to sell OxTrail merchandise in the OxTrail Westgate hub store, promote OxTrail and the charity and enhance the fundraising income.
How can you help?
- Commit for minimum of 4 hours per week during OxTrail
- Engage with trail goers and act as trail ambassadors
- Answer questions and generally promote the trail, the charity and the city
- Circulate trail maps and fundraising information
- Facilitate fundraising activity and collections at certain sculptures on the trail at key times
- Support the pop-up shop selling trail merchandise including visual merchandising, till support, stock preparation and counting
- Supporting the team with administration and maintaining good housekeeping standards
- Carry out any other duties deemed appropriate by the Manager
- Opportunity to support farewell and auction events, or help with the OxTrail survey
What’s in it for you?
- Making a difference to others lives
- Learning new skills or updating your current ones
- Giving something back to your local community
- Being part of a friendly team and a caring organisation
- Gaining confidence
- Enhancing your CV
- Experience working in a high profile retail location
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for warm, child-friendly volunteers to help with activities at YMCA Doncaster.
Our programme of activities is quite new and still developing. At present, activities include arts and crafts, music and drama.
We work with children and young people from the age of 5 upwards, with our activity sessions being led by YMCA staff.
Joining us as a volunteer will involve helping with preparation and tidying up as well as supporting anyone who needs a bit of extra help to join in.
Sessions take place on Monday and Tuesday evenings at the YMCA between 3pm and 8.30pm, and we’re looking for volunteers who can help out with one or both evenings each week. Having regular volunteers will mean that we can grow the activities, offer more places and build some extra informal sessions into our programme.
We think that this opportunity would be great for people with an interest in working with children and young people, wherever you are in your career – we welcome people of any age over 18.
Your Role
- To assist children and young people with taking part in YMCA activities.
- To assist with setting up rooms and equipment / tidying away.
- To deal with difficulties, including challenging behaviour in sessions.
- To welcome and escort participants to their sessions.
- To create social media posts / content showing the activities in a positive way.
- To develop appropriate professionalism and boundaries, and maintain those at all times.
- To lead by example, showing “Take Part, Have Fun, Be Kind” qualities throughout.
- To carry out other activity-related tasks as required.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About Kith & Kids
We provide activities, opportunities, information, and support for people with a learning disability or autism, their parents, and siblings.
For all our projects and activities we are dependent on volunteers.
Our Weekend Clubs
10.00am to 1.30pm and/or 1:30pm to 6.00pm, Fortnightly, Sat during term time.
We are currently looking for energetic and enthusiastic volunteers, to join us on our fantastic fun-filled Weekend club activities.
Volunteers and our members who have disabilities get to know each other as they take part in fun and challenging workshops including sports & games, arts & crafts, cooking and enjoying a day out in London once a term.
What you'll do
On the club you and a fellow volunteer will be paired with one of our members with a learning disability or autism. You'll support and encourage them to take part in a wide range of activities led by professional therapists and workshop leaders.
Our aim at a Kith & Kids’ club is that everybody has lots of fun in an environment in which our members feel safe and relaxed and can fully express themselves. We aim that our members receive 2:1 volunteer support. This helps ensure that the sessions have lots of energy and enthusiasm. It also gives new volunteers a chance to learn further support tips from experienced volunteers.
Our Weekend Clubs also allow our members to develop key skills and relationships in a fun, friendly and safe setting that is individually centred on their needs.
Workshops include music, drama, arts & crafts, sports & games and much more. We even enjoy trips out! Recently groups have attended swimming, museums, crazy golf, and bowling.
Not only is it a session full of fun and games for you and our members, but you are also a vital part in supporting them to develop their social skills in a day-to-day environment.
Come along and get involved!
Male volunteers especially welcome (we need more)!!
Requirements
What you need
You do not need experience. Full disability awareness training will be provided before you begin volunteering with us.
The only requirements we ask of you are enthusiasm, energy and to be open-minded.
Minimum age for volunteers is 18.
How much time?
The clubs run Sat fortnightly, 10.00am to 1.30pm and/or 1:30pm to 6.00pm, in term time only.
The more clubs you do, the more you'll build close relationships with the members you'll be supporting and will create the most impact.
What we can offer you
We can reimburse your travel expenses.
We'll also provide excellent training before the project, and lots of helpful support.
By volunteering on our clubs, you'll also:
- Use and develop your skills
- Learn something new, get involved in fun activities with others
- Increase your confidence
- Meet new people and make friends
- Gain experience for (other) work
- Give something back to the community
- Do something fun and satisfying in your spare time
- Challenge yourself
What about training?
Volunteers must attend training and complete a free DBS check before you begin volunteering.
This is a great opportunity to get to know everyone at Kith & Kids: your fellow volunteers, some of our members you will be working with, and gives the opportunity to develop some new skills and expand your knowledge in our workshops.
Topics we cover include:
- Communication
- Autism
- Supporting emotions
- Safeguarding
- Creativity & Participation
- Epilepsy
When do I need to come?
Volunteers must attend at least two training days and complete a free DBS check before taking part.
We'll be running face-to-face training in north London starting in mid-May with lots of other dates to choose from.
In the meantime, we'll be meeting volunteers online from 15th of April.
Training will take place in North London – once we have met you online for a chat, we will send you confirmation of our training venue details.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About CARAS:
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in south-west London. We work primarily with people who are newly arrived in the UK, most of whom are living in temporary Home Office accommodation. Arriving as a refugee in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language barriers, accessing services, financial insecurity and ongoing uncertainty are extremely challenging and disempowering. CARAS is here to work collaboratively with community members to support them to build skills, connect meaningfully with their local community, and to build positive futures in the UK.
CARAS offers a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background. For adults this currently includes: ESOL, digital skills and employability sessions; social and recreational activities and casework. All programs are interlinked and work hand-in-hand with one another. For example, community members can practice their spoken English in Coffee Afternoon, and casework issues might be picked up and referred into the team during an ESOL class. We design and develop our programs through consultation and ongoing conversations with our community members. We aim to have a strong volunteer presence across all our programs, fostering connections between asylum seekers and other Londoners!
About CARAS’s Adult Programming and Coffee Afternoon:
CARAS has been providing support to adult refugee women since 2005, promoting skills and confidence development that helps women gain more power in their lives. In the aftermath of COVID, we have been able to expand our adult programmes, responding to the shifting demographics of those seeking asylum in the UK. We now run a range of mixed programmes for all genders, as well as some women-only spaces. Our coffee afternoon is a mixed group.
Our coffee afternoon has been running since May 2022 and is one of our most popular groups. It takes place at TARA Theatre in Earlsfield from 1-2.30PM every Friday. Its primary aim is to reduce isolation amongst those we work with by providing a safe, friendly and welcoming space for people to have fun, learn about themselves and each other, and build connections.
In 2023, we have been running creative sessions during Coffee Afternoon, facilitated by freelance creative practitioners in partnership with TARA Theatre. These range from dance to drama, poetry to puppetry. For sessions without a creative practitioner, we sometimes host workshops on important topics such as healthcare rights or have an open and informal space for games and a chat. There is always coffee and a selection of baked goods!
For more information on TARA Theatre, our partner and host, please visit their website.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
- To attend CARAS coffee afternoon’s, every Friday between 1-2.30PM in Earlsfield, South-west London. They take place at TARA Theatre, right opposite Earlsfield Station. Location here- https://maps.app.goo.gl/rXwJiKHRj93YFtLG9 (356 Garratt Ln, London SW18 4ES).
- If there is a week this is not possible, to tell CARAS staff as far in advance as you are able.
- To welcome and connect with community members attending, working to ensure everyone at the group feels included.
- To take part if there is a creative activity happening in that session, and help liaise with CARAS staff and the creative practitioner to ensure the activity runs smoothly.
- To encourage and inspire community members to feel confident and reach their full potential.
- To share conversation, and chat informally with our community members.
- To assist community members to both recognise and celebrate their achievements.
- To challenge negative attitudes and behaviour in an appropriate manor.
- To adhere to CARAS Confidentiality policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements:
- To have interest in working with refugees and asylum seekers.
- To be non-judgemental, and able and willing to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, and differing levels of English.
- To be reliable and punctual.
- To be a current resident in the UK.
- To provide five years’ worth of addresses and be willing to undergo a UK DBS check.
- To attend CARAS General and Safeguarding Training, and any further training as necessary.
- To be 18 years or older.
Through volunteering with us you will:
- Meet new members of your local community
- Learn about different cultures and life experiences from across the world
- Learn about issues relating to refugee and asylum seekers
- Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team
- Develop your skills and competencies
- Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding
To Apply:
Please fill in the volunteer application form and email it to us. Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with the Head of Adult Inclusion and Adult Program Coordinator these meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP!
Details for this role are in the description and not mentioned in the application form but please fill in your details in the Volunteer application form attached and send it back to us
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.