Charity volunteer roles

Job Title: Volunteer Trainee Roller Sports Coach

Location: Various venues across the UK (including after-school clubs and community programmes)

Position Type: Volunteer – 8 to 16 weeks (initial commitment)

Expenses: Travel and other agreed expenses will be reimbursed

About RollaDome All Skate: RollaDome All Skate is a charity committed to making roller sports accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities. Through structured coaching and community activities, we promote active lifestyles, personal development, and teamwork in a supportive environment.

Role Overview: We are looking for enthusiastic Volunteer Trainee Coaches to join our team and support the delivery of roller sports sessions across multiple venues in the UK. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are passionate about working with young people, developing their coaching skills, and gaining hands-on experience in a community sports setting. The role provides valuable practical experience alongside mentoring and training, ideal for anyone considering a future in sports coaching, youth work, or education.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support Lead Coaches in delivering fun, inclusive roller sports sessions.

• Assist participants in developing fundamental skating skills and confidence.

• Help with the set-up and pack-down of equipment at sessions.

• Provide encouragement and positive feedback to participants.

• Maintain a safe environment by following health and safety guidelines.

• Take part in training and mentoring to build your skills.

• Act as a positive role model, promoting inclusion, respect, and enjoyment.

• Engage with participants, parents, and staff in a friendly, professional manner.

Person Specification: Essential:

• Enthusiasm for sport, coaching, and working with young people. 

• Willingness to learn and develop roller sports and coaching skills.

• Good communication and teamwork skills. • Reliable, punctual, and able to travel to different venues as required.

• Ability to work flexible hours, including after-school sessions and occasional weekends.

• Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and health and safety.

• Possession of a valid Enhanced DBS Check (or willingness to obtain one prior to starting).

Desirable:

• Intermediate or advanced roller skating skills.

• Experience working with children or young people in a community or sports setting.

• A recognised sports coaching qualification (any sport considered).

What We Offer:

• Mentoring and practical coaching experience.

• The opportunity to develop your roller sports and coaching skills.

• A positive, supportive team environment.

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel and agreed expenses.

• A meaningful role that contributes to improving young people’s lives.

• A potential pathway to paid coaching opportunities within RollaDome All Skate.

Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.

We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals and Count Me In numeracy manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading and numeracy skills. 

Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.

We are looking for volunteers who are able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Volunteers do not need to be teachers or qualified traininers, full training will be given. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.

We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.

We’re looking for new Trustees! We’re looking for people who support our mission and values, and who can act as ambassadors for YHA.

What will you be doing?

We’re looking for new Trustees

YHA enables everyone, especially young people, to connect with each other, nature and heritage through hostels in amazing places throughout England and Wales. Since 1930, we’ve been increasing access to travel and adventure. It’s our aim to reach and positively impact the lives of more people from more diverse backgrounds. And we target our support to young people and groups from under-served communities.

It’s a really exciting time to join YHA as we’ve just launched a refreshed strategy that will see us focus our activities and deepen our impact with the aim of growing people’s confidence, connection and sense of belonging - outcomes vital to wellbeing in this uncertain world.

What you’ll get from joining our Board

• the opportunity to contribute to the success of a national charity
• the chance to use your knowledge to make a valuable contribution to society
• a full induction and membership of an inclusive, welcoming Board

This could be a great fit for you You don’t need to have been on a Board before to become a YHA Trustee. We’re looking for people who support our mission and values, and who can act as ambassadors for YHA.

What matters most is that you bring good communication and listening skills, fair and reasoned decision-making, the confidence to challenge and support constructively, and time to commit to the role.

Diversity We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and strongly encourage people from the global majority to apply. These voices are currently under-represented on our Board, and we are committed to changing that.

Valuable additional strategic experience We’re also looking to strengthen the Board with Trustees who bring strategic insight in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance
• Hospitality
• Information technology, cyber security and data protection
• Leadership in a schools environment

Please note, you don’t need to have all these attributes to apply. Candidates must be over 16 years of age. 

Experience comes in many forms. Whether you’ve taken part in a community group, student council, parent committee, trade union, local campaign, or formal Board settings - those insights are all valuable here. 

What are we looking for?

You don’t need previous Board experience to become a YHA Trustee. What matters most is that you bring:

• a strong belief in YHA’s mission and understanding of our strategic direction
• good communication and listening skills
• fair and reasoned decision-making
• the confidence to challenge and support constructively
• time to commit to the role (including preparation and attendance at meetings)
• a commitment to YHA’s HEART values: Helpful, Efficient, Authentic, Respectful, and Team-spirited

We believe diversity in all its forms makes us stronger, more effective, and better able to deliver our mission. We care about who you are — not just what you’ve done.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. In particular, we strongly encourage people from the global majority to apply. These voices are currently under-represented on our Board, and we are committed to changing that.

We’re also looking to strengthen the Board with Trustees who bring strategic insight in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance
• Hospitality
• Information technology, cyber security and data protection
• Leadership in a schools environment

You don’t need to have all these desirable attributes to apply. We welcome applications from candidates who have relevant work and life experiences and have the passion to make a difference with YHA.

What difference will you make?

Becoming a Trustee is both deeply rewarding and genuinely enjoyable. This is an opportunity to help shape the direction of YHA — a charity dedicated to connecting people with each other, the outdoors nature and heritage.

Our Trustees hold overall legal responsibility for YHA. The Board sets and oversees the delivery of our strategy, and provides guidance across key areas such as impact, finance, risk management, property, hospitality, and performance.

With Trustees from a wide range of personal and professional backgrounds, boardroom conversations are rich and dynamic — and every voice contributes meaningfully to our progress.

YHA places access and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. As a Trustee, you’ll be part of an open, collaborative culture where diverse viewpoints are not only welcomed but essential to our success.

Join current Trustees for a special webinar on 23rd June 2025 at 6pm to find out more about the opportunity and what it’s really like to be a Trustee. Sign up via the link on the YHA website.

Before you apply

You don’t have to be a current YHA member to apply to become a Trustee. To be elected, however, you will need to become an Association Member of YHA before the AGM on Saturday 8 November 2025. 

Please apply via Reach, after which we will ask you to complete our online application form, which includes your personal details, diversity monitoring and candidate statement which will ask you some questions relating to your skills and experience. If you need support with the application process or to submit your application in an alternative format, please contact us via Reach.

NEW CHAIR WANTED FOR AGE UK MERTON’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES

We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees who shares our values and passion for supporting older adults in Merton. The new Chair will formally take up the role at the AGM in November 2025.

About Age UK Merton

We are an independent charity operating within the national Age UK network providing services for older adults in the London Borough of Merton. Our role is to ensure older adults can access the support, services and care they need to help them to live active and fulfilling lives.

Our vision: Supporting our communities with opportunities to love later life.

Our mission: To provide quality advice and services that meet the needs of older adults in Merton.

Our values: quality, integrity, kindness, inclusivity and collaboration.

Our priorities

We are passionate about making a difference to the lives of older adults in Merton. Our Strategic Plan 2023-2026 outlines our three key priorities in support of our mission:

1. Providing high quality advice and practical support.

2. Building social connection.

3. Creating opportunities for lifelong active ageing.

Our services

Living Well: we deliver holistic person-centered home assessments creating a motivational action plan and supporting older adults to access services and improve their health and wellbeing.

At Home: we provide practical help to enable people to feel comfortable, safe and secure at home with domestic support, shopping and respite for carers.

Activity programme: our weekly-programme of activities includes chair-based exercise, Zumba, Tai Chi, social club with board games, craft club, quiz sessions, walking group, monthly special lunches and aqua fitness. We also run a wide range of out and about trips annually.

Information and advice: our trained advisers offer free accredited information and advice to older adults on benefits, health and end of life, housing, social care, local services and more.

Befriending and volunteering: we provide a high-quality, free, face-to-face and telephone befriending service, helping to reduce social isolation and promote independence.

Foot health service: we offer a low-cost paid-for foot health service for our clients.

Role description

As Chair, you will provide leadership and strategic direction to the Board of Trustees. Your regular responsibilities will include liaising with the CEO to set the agenda and agree the papers for Board meetings, chairing Board meetings, holding regular catch-ups with Trustees, and leading on Trustee recruitment and retention and Board development. In addition, you will also be the line manager to the CEO, holding regular meetings and undertaking the annual appraisal and objective setting. You will also sit on the Finance Committee (chaired by the Treasurer) and be responsible for determining complaints and grievances where a decision is appealed.

As a Trustee, you will have a number of core duties, including ensuring the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and relevant legislation; ensuring it pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document; ensuring the financial stability of the organisation; and ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

Person specification

Essential

· Previous Board-level experience, either as a Trustee or in another non-executive capacity

· Experience of chairing (either a Trustee Board or other professional experience)

· Strong leadership and interpersonal skills

· Willingness and capacity to devote the necessary time

· Good independent judgment

· A commitment to Age UK Merton and its vision, mission and values

· An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship

Desirable

· Some experience or understanding of the adult social care or health sectors

· An understanding of Merton as a place

To find out more and to apply

We welcome applications from all sections of the community. While we would especially welcome applications from people who live in our local area, this is not essential to success in the role.

If you are interested in applying, please send a CV (maximum 2-sides of A4) and cover letter (maximum 1-side of A4) to our current chair. Please also contact our chair if you would like to have an informal discussion about the role. The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday 25th July 2025. Interviews will be held in August/September 2025 and the successful candidate will formally take up the role at the AGM in November 2025.

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.

Summary

The Sussex Area of the Ramblers has two Countryside Officers, one for East Sussex and one for West Sussex. The main activity in the role is to act on behalf of members where a reported planning development is likely to have an adverse effect on the walking environment in the Sussex countryside.

Description

The Ramblers, which celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2025, is the only charity dedicated to removing barriers so everyone can enjoy walking in green spaces, and to improving Britain’s most popular and least-known walking places. We’re committed to campaigning to keep our countryside open to all and to fighting for the things that matter most to walkers. We lead the way, and the walks, for a vibrant community united by the joys of walking, helping everyone get more out of their walks. 

The role of West Sussex Area Countryside Officer involves reviewing planning applications published by Local Authorities and creating and submitting objections on behalf of Sussex Ramblers if an application is likely to have an adverse impact on the Sussex countryside and the places where people walk. Objections may be expressed in writing through a response to the planning process, but could also involve site visits and on occasions attendance at public hearings or meetings with representatives of Local Authorities or with other stakeholders such as Parish Councils and environmental and wildlife organisations.

The role holder will work closely with other Ramblers volunteers such as the West Sussex Area Footpath Officer, the East Sussex Area Countryside Officer and Local Footpath Wardens in West Sussex and where necessary will seek advice and guidance from Ramblers' Central Office. Other main contacts include the Local Authorities, Parish/Town Councils, the South Downs National Park Authority and the West Sussex Local Access Forum. The role holder will be a member of the Area leadership team (Area Council). You will need to be a member of the Ramblers and to live in or close to West Sussex.

What Impact will you have?

The Ramblers help everyone, everywhere, enjoy walking and protects the places we all love to walk. By volunteering as an Area Countryside Officer you will be paying a vital role in making sure we can achieve this by holding Local Authorities to account for planning decisions, and helping to ensure that our countryside and the places people walk, essential to health and wellbeing, are safeguarded.

Skills and Experience Required

You should have a passion for walking and for preservation and protection of the natural beauty of the countryside and the special qualities of urban space, and a good knowledge of the county. Experience and knowledge of the Local Authorities' planning process is not essential but would be an advantage. The role is suitable for someone who is highly reliable, organised, capable of taking initiative and with an ability to articulate strategic issues clearly in written and spoken form. A desire and ability to work in a team environment is essential. You will also need to be comfortable using a computer and the internet, and managing information.

IAPWA was founded in 2009 and aims to provide protection and improve the welfare of animals in need. We exist for the benefit of the animals who need our help and are driven by those who are passionate about providing this lifeline. Our achievements have and continue to be possible through the combined dedication of everyone within the IAPWA team who enable us to make an impact through the collective action we take.

THE ROLE

In February this year, we launched the pilot for our Youth Ambassador Programme, encouraging students between 11-18 to sign up and work towards becoming a Youth Ambassador for the charity through fundraising, raising awareness and animal welfare advocacy. We received a significant interest and are now in a position to have a super successful first full run out of the programme starting in September 2025.

As the Education Partnerships Assistant, you will be aiding the Partnerships Manager in running and growing this year’s programme, while also developing a new programme aimed at schools rather than individuals called the Educator Partner Programme, where schools and education institutions work towards being recognized as an IAPWA Educator Partner.

The role will involve:

• Youth Ambassador Programme Support: Assisting with the day-to-day coordination of the IAPWA Youth Ambassador Programme, including supporting young people aged 11–18 as they complete their activities and challenges to achieve ambassador status.
• Event and Presentation Assistance: Helping to organise and attend school visits, presentations, and award ceremonies, including communicating with schools and coordinating with community supporters.
• Volunteer Engagement: Communicating with Youth Ambassadors and their families, celebrating their achievements, and maintaining positive and inspiring engagement throughout their journey with the programme
• Content Creation: Supporting the creation of Youth Ambassador Programme resources, certificates, welcome packs, and promotional content.
• Educator Partner Programme Development: Assisting in the development of the new Educator Partner Programme for schools and educational institutions, including planning activities, recognition criteria, and outreach strategies.
• Promotion and Outreach: Supporting the promotion of both education programmes through social media, email campaigns, and direct communication with schools, students, and local communities.
• Administration: Maintaining accurate records of participants, communications, and achievements, and ensuring timely responses to enquiries.
• Feedback and Reporting: Gathering feedback from participants and schools to help improve the programmes and compiling monthly updates to share progress with the Partnerships Manager.

THE PERSON

• A passion for animal welfare (essential)
• Knowledge of the education sector, either as a former teacher or a parent with involvement in school proceedings (desired, but not essential)
• Non-profit experience (desired, but not essential)
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• Resourcefulness
• Effective team player
• Ability to multi-task and manage time effectively
• Excellent attention to detail
• Proactive approach
• Problem solving skills

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 500 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated & new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

Our retail stores are the face of our charity on the high-street and in local communities. We have loads of amazing stock donated to us every week, and this all needs to be sorted, tagged and put on the shop-floor for sale!

Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till too, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.

You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.

Why we want you

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 700 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

What you will be doing

• Work on the till processing sales and returns
• Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
• Create stylish window displays
• Replenish stock on the shop floor
• Stock-take and other administrative tasks

The skills you need

• Friendly and helpful
• Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
• Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
• Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks

What's in it for you

• Have fun and meet new people
• Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
• Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
• Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
• Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer

Disclaimer

We look to recruit a diverse range of volunteers. If your skills don't fit the above, please do not let this put you off as we are able to be flexible with most of our roles. If you are unable to apply online through the link on this page, please visit your local store for a paper application form or contact the Barnardo's Volunteering Team on our website.

Location:

Unit 2 11/15 Carolgate, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 6BZ, United Kingdom

Minimum age: 14 

Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK

Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.

We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals and Count Me In numeracy manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading and numeracy skills. 

Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.

We are looking for volunteers who are able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Volunteers do not need to be teachers or qualified traininers, full training will be given. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.

We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.

Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.

We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills. 

Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.

We are looking for volunteers who are able to work alone, able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons.  Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.

We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.

Overview

Are you practical, hands-on and enjoy being a friendly face in your local community?

Scarborough Community Furniture Store make deliveries and collections of donated furniture on a daily basis, and volunteers can provide additional support to our driver team with the loading and unloading of items, and being a friendly, welcoming representative of the store out in the local community.

We are currently looking for van support volunteers to assist on a Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. This is a flexible role designed to meet you where you're at and you will be joining a supportive charity team.

Responsibilities of the Role:

• Assisting the driving team with their deliveries and collections
• Supporting a driver on their route in their van
• Using the phone to communicate with customers about when you will be arriving
• Loading and unloading furniture into vans at the store and at customer’s home
• Being an ambassador for our organisation, by giving polite, helpful and friendly service to the customers you are visiting

Skills required:

• You will need to undergo a DBS check for this role as you will be entering customer homes
• You will need to communicate well with the rest of the driver team
• You need to be able to lift and move furniture - although we will never ask you to lift anything you are uncomfortable with and will provide full manual handling training
• You will need to be a positive, helpful and friendly representative of Community Stores as you interact with the local community
• There is no need to have a driving license for this role

What you’ll get from us:

• Full training in health and safety and role specific skills
• Support and mentorship from a member of our team
• Supporting people in your local community who need it most as part of a supportive team
• Opportunities for training and development - in the past this has included First Aid & PAT Testing training sessions
• Relevant PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

We are proud to offer our volunteers training and development opportunities and work with a variety of volunteers from a range of backgrounds - whether you have lots of experience and just want to lend a helping hand, or are looking to build your confidence and gain experience and skills, we will meet you where you are at.

What we expect from you:

• A minimum time commitment of 3 hours per week
• Being punctual, reliable, and ready to help as part of the team
• We are currently looking for volunteers on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

Who this role would suit:

• Those looking to gain skills and experience in warehouse work, delivery work and customer service
• Anybody willing to learn, support, and be part of the van team

Volunteer: “My favourite experience of volunteering at CFS was that I could meet new friends and experience local culture. I learnt so many transferable skills”

Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a small, friendly charity based in Southwark, providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills.

We’re currently looking for a Drama Volunteer to support our weekly drama group on Friday afternoons, held at St Faith’s Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations).

About the Role

This role is ideal for someone with a background or strong interest in drama, theatre or performance. You’ll support our Drama Tutor to deliver inclusive and engaging drama sessions for a small group of adults with learning disabilities. Each year, the group works towards a production which is performed at our end-of-year Summer Show, making this a fun, creative, and rewarding volunteering opportunity.

As a Drama Volunteer, you will:

• Assist the tutor in planning and running weekly drama activities
• Encourage and support learners during rehearsals and performances
• Help with setting up props, costumes and resources for sessions
• Offer 1:1 or small group support where needed to help participants engage
• Help build a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe to express themselves

What You’ll Gain

Volunteering with us is a chance to:

• Gain hands-on experience in drama facilitation and inclusive practice
• Contribute to a creative and meaningful community project
• Feel the joy of supporting learners to grow in confidence and express themselves
• Experience working with adults with learning disabilities in a supportive setting
• Develop skills in teamwork, adaptability, communication, and creative problem-solving
• Have a place in a welcoming and friendly team of tutors, staff and volunteers

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need to be a professional actor or drama teacher, just someone who is enthusiastic about drama and passionate about inclusion. We especially value:

• A background or interest in drama, theatre, or performance
• Good communication and a warm, encouraging approach
• Enthusiasm, patience, and a willingness to get involved
• A non-judgemental and inclusive mindset
• Reliability and commitment, especially in the lead-up to the summer show
• Flexibility to support a creative, sometimes unpredictable environment

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to:

• Attend an induction meeting
• Provide two references
• Complete a DBS check (we will arrange this)
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we ask that you commit to volunteer for a minimum of a year with us.

Why we want you

As a community engagement volunteer you and your fellow branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.

What you will be doing

This role is diverse and allows for you to focus on the areas that you have skills or interests in. The role has flexibility and can work around your other commitments.

Below are some examples of possible activities you can take on or be a part of as a SSAFA Community Engagement Volunteer.

Event Champions

Be the friendly face of SSAFA! Help at events, chat with visitors, sell merchandise, and spread the word about our work.

Activity Organisers

Love planning? Help coordinate amazing events like charity dinners, carol concerts, and local fairs.

Promoting SSAFA Services

Help provide a warm, welcoming presence at Veterans Breakfast clubs, cafes or hubs - offering information about SSAFA services and signposting as appropriate.

SSAFA Storytellers

Deliver engaging talks to organisations and groups, sharing SSAFA’s incredible history and mission.

Community Connectors

Collaborating with the Community Engagement Manager to establish a local network, promote SSAFA's services, and respond to community opportunities such as gardening projects

Fundraising Heroes

Whether it’s rallying local businesses, organising events, or getting creative with unique fundraising ideas, you’ll play a crucial role in keeping SSAFA’s support going strong.

Administrators

Are you detail-oriented and love keeping things organised? Assist with branch and event administration, manage schedules and branch calendars, and ensure everything runs smoothly currently being undertaken.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable people.
• Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and
• SSAFA colleagues face-to-face.
• Reliable attitude, staying connected with your Branch and/or Community Engagement Manager about your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to get to events if necessary.

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others and make a difference
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising awareness of SSAFA.
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

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 Oldham

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”.