Charity volunteer roles

Overview

Are you practical, hands-on and enjoy getting stuck in?

Our Scarborough Community Furniture Store receives large amounts of donated furniture, which needs moving on a daily basis, including loading and unloading our delivery vans and arranging the store, as well as small scale furniture assembly and repair. We are looking for volunteers in our stores to support these operations.

We are currently looking for warehouse volunteers to assist on a Monday, Friday and Saturday. 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:

• Moving furniture around our stores and warehouse
• Unloading & loading vans
• Cleaning and preparing donated furniture to be sold
• Furniture assembly (usually beds)
• Minor repairs where needed (supervised and supported)
• Interacting with customers in the store in a positive, polite and helpful manner

Skills required:

• You will need to communicate well with the rest of the store team
• Being a positive, polite, and helpful representative of the store to customers, ready to help them out when needed
• 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
• If you have skills in carpentry, furniture repair and assembly, this is a bonus, but not a requirement of the 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 MONDAY, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY

Who this role would suit:

• Those looking to gain skills and experience in warehouse work, delivery work and customer service
• Those with a background in carpentry and furniture repair who are looking to contribute this experience as part of a voluntary role
• Those with a background in warehouse work and customer service who are looking to contribute this experience as part of a voluntary role
• Anybody willing to learn, support, and be part of the warehouse team

Volunteer: “I wanted to volunteer to get some work experience and be part of a team. I’ve learnt the correct way to handle furniture, how to take a bed apart, and how to put a sofa together. I’ve also improved my teamwork skills, have better communication skills, and learnt that there are several ways to do different things”.

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, employees and supporters.

A bit about this role...

Every penny counts when it comes to improving the lives of the thousands of cats and kittens across the UK that need our help each year. Our Collection Box Volunteers help us raise vital funds by collecting and distributing collection boxes in their local area. Making a difference can mean as little as raising 20p, which is enough to feed one cat in our care for a day, to £150 which is the average cost of a cat in our care.

What can I expect to be doing?

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:

• Researching local shops, pubs and businesses to place Collection Boxes
• Delivering Collection Boxes to locations
• Recording donations and thanking local businesses and supporters
• Collecting and replacing Collection boxes when they're full
• Sharing your passion for cat welfare and promoting the work of Cats Protection

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of Volunteers.
Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.

We're looking for someone with:

• Sympathy to cats and our values
• Good communication skills
• Confidence in speaking to members of the public
• Confidence in handling money

How much time is expected of me?

Our Collection Tin Volunteer role is very flexible and can be completed at your own pace, independently with our dedicated support.

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 encounter as part of our activities.

Thank you for your support and sharing in this commitment and for everything you will do during your time with Cats Protection!

Join our dedicated retail team as a volunteer, where you'll provide excellent customer service on the shop floor and at the till or while supporting our back-of-house operations by sorting donations, pricing items, and creating appealing displays to ensure our shop remains well-stocked and welcoming for our valued customers.

Role Overview

Looking to boost your CV while making a real difference? Join the Sue Ryder charity shop team in one of our Walsall shop as a volunteer and get hands-on experience in retail management, merchandising, and operations!

Go behind the scenes as a Donation and Stockroom Assistant where you'll develop valuable skills in inventory management, merchandising, and retail operations. Every day brings something new – from assessing trending fashion pieces to pricing vintage finds and even managing our growing online marketplace. Your role could include: - Building your retail expertise - Getting creative with visual merchandising - Gaining practical business experience - Developing teamwork and leadership skills - Learning e-commerce through our online sales platform - Flexible hours that work around your studies - Improve your English Language Speaking Skills Perfect for students interested in business, retail management, fashion, or sustainability. Plus, it's a great addition to your CV that shows initiative and community engagement. Want to check it out? Drop by for a no-pressure taster session to meet the team and see if it's right for you or complete our quick apply form online today.

Commitment: Regular 2-4 hour shifts are preferred, but days and times flexible.

Skills

You need to be the type of person who: - is well organised and good at task based activities - is friendly and able to work as part of a team - can use your own initiative - is happy to get stuck in and support the shop where needed

Experience

Previous experience is not essential as we’ll give you all the training you need. Really, you just need to be a friendly person who is happy to get stuck in, reliable and good at using your initiative.

Benefits

Comprehensive induction and ongoing training provided. · Opportunity to improve your understanding of retail and Customer Service. · We can provide a reference to prospective employers. · This is a great opportunity to gain and develop your experience in the competitive retail sector, make new friends and help Sue Ryder provide palliative, neurological and bereavement support to people living with the challenges of life-limiting conditions. · Reasonable *Travel expenses reimbursed for a minimum of 2 hours, but must speak with the shop manager initially to confirm · *50% off donated items (excluding furniture) rules apply Find out more and have a taster session to see if you would like to voluntee

Become a trustee for your local Mind in Wales

Mind, the mental health charity and national organisation provides information, advice and support to anyone experiencing poor mental health. Minds also campaigns to improve services, change policy, raise awareness and promote understanding of mental health.

Mind Cymru is Mind in Wales. We aim to make sure everyone in Wales has access to the mental health information, support and services they need. We are here to make sure no-one in Wales faces a mental health problem alone.

We are currently working with our network of 16 local minds in Wales to recruit new trustees. Local Minds provide support and services at the heart of their communities, reaching almost 37,000 people a year in Wales.

Trustees are our most senior leaders. They set our strategic direction, make sure we are using our resources effectively and ensure we are having the greatest possible impact on our community. As part of a federated structure, trustees are expected to undertake duties in a manner that reflects Mind’s values and ethos.

We are looking for dedicated, empathetic and ambitious candidates to help make our mission a reality and lead us closer towards our ultimate ambition: a society where everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets both support and respect.

As a trustee you will:

• Think strategically and creatively.
• Lead the organisation towards fully achieving its commitment and ambition.
• Scrutinise the impact we’re having.
• Communicate clearly and sensitively in large group discussions.
• Use independent judgement to make decisions on behalf of the organisation. Be committed to our mission, vision and values.

Diversity is critical for a board to be effective, enabling varied discussions and active debate and decision making so that together we can have the greatest impact. We encourage applications from people with lived experience of mental health problems and from all ethnic, socio-economic, religious and professional and personal backgrounds. Whether you’re an experienced trustee or taking your first steps into governance, if you have the commitment, values, and skills, we want to hear from you!

As a trustee, you will receive:

• Induction and training into the role.
• Opportunities to develop new skills.
• An annual appraisal to help support your development.

Time commitment

The trustee role is voluntary with expenses paid and a typical commitment of approximately 4-8 hours per month. Six board meetings per year take place -both in person or virtually via video conference. Plese note these numbers are a guide and may vary between local Minds.

To Apply

Below is a list of the local Minds in Wales who are currently recruiting. Please contact them for follow up information and a guide to their process please follow the link to their local Mind website.

· Brecon & District Mind 

· Caerphilly Borough Mind

· Mind in Gwent 

· North East Wales Mind 

· Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind 

Find out more about the Federation in Wales at our latest impact report HERE and find your nearest local Mind in Wales HERE.

Find out more about being a trustee as part of the Mind Federation

If you would like to find out more about the role of trustee and the support / personal development available to you contact Stuart Thomason 

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, Woodfield Plantation, Balby, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN4 8SN, United Kingdom

Minimum age: 14 

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

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.

Volunteer Befriender: Home-Start Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, and Hammersmith & Fulham

Do you have experience with young children and have two hours to spare a week?

Are you a compassionate and reliable person who wants to make a real difference in the lives of families?

Home-Start WKCHF is looking for volunteers to support parents and children who are facing challenges such as isolation, mental health struggles, or financial difficulties.

About the Role

As a Home-Start volunteer, you will provide emotional and practical support to families with young children in their own homes. Your role may involve:                                                                                                                                                     

• Offering friendship, a listening ear and encouragement
• Helping parents build confidence in their parenting skills
• Providing practical support such as accompanying families to appointments, family hubs or groups
• Signposting to additional services and community resources

What We’re Looking For

• A friendly and non-judgmental attitude
• Experience parenting or caring for children
• Good listening and communication skills
• Commitment to volunteering for two hour per week for a minimum of six months
• Willingness to attend free preparation course and undergo a DBS / reference checks

What We Offer

• Free Volunteer Preparation Training Course
• Regular 1-to-1 supervision and ongoing support
• Additional training opportunities to enhance your skills and experience
• Reimbursement of travel and out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteer Social Events
• A chance to develop new skills and meet like-minded people
• The opportunity to make a lasting impact on families’ lives

Join Us!

Volunteer Youth Support Worker 

Location: at our Satellite Session in Mildmay Comunity Centre N16 
Time commitment: Wednesdays in term Time 4:30-7:30pm 
Reports to: Lead Youth Worker

About Us 

At Mary’s Youth Club, we’re more than just a place to hang out. We’re a safe, supportive space where young people aged 10–19 can be themselves, try new things, and feel like they belong. 

From creative arts and music to games, sports, and wellbeing sessions, we run exciting drop-in activities and workshops every weekday. Everything we do is shaped by young people, with a strong focus on inclusion, creativity, and community. 

The Role 

We’re looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to support our team in delivering fun and engaging activities for young people. No experience is needed – just a positive attitude and a willingness to get stuck in! 

This role is for our Wednesday satellite session ‘Craft & Create’ delivered At Mildmay Community Centre (N16 8NA).

This role would particularly suit someone who is interested in, and able to offer, arts and craft, music or other creative sessions 

This is a great opportunity to gain experience in youth work, give back to your community, and help create a safe, welcoming environment for young people to grow and thrive. 

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Supporting young people during drop-in sessions

• Helping set up and run activities with staff 

• Being a friendly and approachable presence for young people 

• Encouraging creativity, teamwork and confidence 

• Assisting with tidying up and ensuring the space stays safe and welcoming 

What We’re Looking For 

You don’t need experience – we’ll provide guidance and support. We’re looking for volunteers who: 

• Enjoy spending time with young people 

• Have an interest in creative, hands-on activities

• Are patient, friendly and good listeners 

• Are reliable and able to work well in a team 

• Are open to learning and receiving feedback 

• Respect diversity and different backgrounds 

• Are committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment 

What You’ll Get 

• Support and supervision from experienced youth workers 

• A warm, friendly team environment 

• Opportunities to learn more about youth work 

• A chance to make a real difference in young people’s lives 

• References and certificates of volunteering (on request) 

Additional Info 

• All volunteers will be asked to complete a basic DBS (criminal record) check – we can help with this 

• We provide safeguarding training and a full induction 

• Volunteers must be 18+ 

Please note that unfortunately, we are not in a financial position to be able to pay sponsorship visa costs for individuals, therefore you will need to have settled status or pre-settled status in the UK in order to be able to apply for this volunteer role

How to Apply 

Interested? We'd love to hear from you! 

Join us in making Mary’s a space where young people feel safe, supported, and inspired – every day. �� 

This is an exciting opportunity to influence and impact the educational experience and outcomes of children in east Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Hartlepool. At the heart of our trust is the aim to nurture, educate, achieve and transform the lives of all young people within the communities we serve across the North East.

We are a mixed Multi-Academy Trust, with eight schools (6 primary, 2 secondary) and a mix of community and Church of England schools. We are a fully inclusive, working with a range of stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes and destinations for our pupils. We also have a national research school, which aims to build and strengthen networks of schools throughout the region and help them access effective education research and implement it in everyday practice.

NEAT is looking for people to join our Trust Board of Directors. We're open to hear from any candidates who are motivated to contribute to the enhancement of education in our schools, whether that be with years of education experience, or with new insights and innovative thinking about how schools can and should support our learners.

We're especially keen to support people who may not have much experience on a Board, and those from underrepresented groups. If you have a passion for supporting pupils and some relevant skills or experience, we're keen to hear from you.

Our Directors work closely with our school governors and school leaders and have direct impact in the community through:

• decision making in the best interests of pupils to improve their education, wellbeing and future prospects and raise community aspirations
• shaping policies and strategic direction, allowing schools to focus on delivering high-quality educational experiences
• stakeholder engagement to ensure that the voices of staff, parents, pupils and other stakeholders are heard

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.

For a full description and details of how to apply please click 'redirect to recruiter' to see the full details on our website page. Thank you. 

Role specification 

The National Holocaust Museum is at a pivotal moment in its journey, rich in history, purpose, and potential. We are seeking a new Chair who can harness this momentum and lead the organisation into its next chapter of growth and influence. 

This is a unique opportunity for a strategic and values-driven leader to elevate an already respected institution to the next phase. The ideal candidate will bring a deep commitment to the Museum’s mission and will serve as both an ambassador and catalyst, aligning Board and executive leadership, strengthening governance, and unlocking new opportunities for reach and long-term sustainability. 

The Chair must be able to navigate the nuanced context of a Christian-founded Holocaust museum, appreciating both the complexity and the significance of this positioning. They will champion the Museum’s work with young people and wider audiences and support the leadership team to deliver on an ambitious vision with clarity, purpose, critical insight and unity. 

Core responsibilities 

As Patrick Dunne outlined in “Boards”, the role of a Board is to ensure the organisation has the right strategy, right governance and right resources. The main tasks required of the new Chair are: 

1. Align and develop the Board into a highly effective collective voice that provides professional governance in line with the expectations of the Charities Commission, The National Lottery Heritage Fund (TNLHF) and Arts Council England for public money, and the Museum’s most loyal philanthropic funders. A careful review of Board effectiveness is needed to inform future Board diversity, development and ways of working, both as a Board and in collaboration with the Executive Team. 

2. Support the development of the Funding Strategy, identifying and working with a range of existing and potential funding partners, while contributing the Chair’s own set of networks and influence to support the future strategy.

3. Work with the Board and Leadership Team to build towards the next iteration of the strategic plan for the NHM of the future – which must focus on funding as a priority and consider the strategic prioritisation necessary given external and funding constraints. The plan should define clear KPIs, accountability, financial management process and ways to strengthen culture, people and workflow. Any such plan should also consider relationships and positioning within the wider Holocaust education sector.

Boards require clarity around their own purpose, process and people to operate effectively. As such, the main attributes required of the new Chair are excellent judgement and superb communication and people skills. This includes highly sensitive and strategic “antennae” for how groups can work effectively together, within organisations and across sectors including education, museums, inter-faith and security.

In addition to the attributes above, the Chair will ideally possess the following: 

• Chair experience or equivalent (e.g Deputy Chair or Chair of a Committee). Demonstrated ability to stimulate and manage productive conflict, avoid groupthink and build meaningful consensus among diverse voices. Must be experienced in Board agenda-setting that balances necessary strategic deliberation with fiduciary requirements.
• Expertise in governance including a minimum level of financial acumen and risk management experience, ideally from the public, private or charitable sectors, with an appreciation of the fiduciary requirements for the use of public or donor funding.
• Experience leading organisations through transition, at both Board and team levels, particularly in the context of shifting external trends, resulting in sharper mission clarity, ambition, execution requirements and accountability.
• An appreciation for the creative arts sector, and an ability to work with and nurture creative individuals and teams.
• Experience working with various funders and the ability to firmly enable constructive and mutually respectful relationships with them. 
• Willingness to bring and develop their network to support the organisation with influence, funding, or other relevant support. Key networks that are important to the Museum: national government and statutory funders (Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, Department for Education, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England) and the Jewish community across the UK, whose generous support is vital to the organisation’s growth.
• The time and energy to fully engage, learn about the organisation, conduct the necessary reviews and any associated changes and build new and existing partnerships and stakeholder relationships.

Please follow the recruiter link to our website for full details on hwo to apply.

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 a friendly and empathetic Pathway Volunteer. As the first point of contact for individuals accessing our Community Wellbeing Service, you’ll play a vital role in welcoming guests, conducting initial triage appointments to understand their goals and needs, and signposting them to the most appropriate support services.

The role will require you to:

• Greet guests who are visiting the Community Wellbeing service for the first time
• Conduct a ‘pathway’ triage appointment, establishing the members’ goals and note down areas of concern and current issues
• Signpost to local services and partners that come into the space
• If needed, book an appointment for the member with an advisor
• Update Sufra’s case management system, keeping detailed notes of appointments

Skills required

Professional

• No formal qualifications are necessary, however understanding and having knowledge of the landscape of Brent, the welfare benefit system and other voluntary and statutory services will be beneficial.
• You need to be a confident communicator, able to give a warm welcome to all and keep to timely appointment slots.
• Digital literacy is essential.
• You must be confident with IT platforms such as Microsoft Office and preferably have used case management systems before.

Personal - We need volunteers who:

• Are friendly
• Are non-judgemental
• Can actively listen
• Are passionate about supporting local families to access the support they need
• Are empathic
• Preferably be able to speak another language: Arabic, Persian, Spanish
• Are confident communicating to people without a shared first language
• Have IT skills (ability to use Microsoft Office applications, or willing and able to learn)
• Have a good understanding of confidentiality

EVENTS VOLUNTEER (Guildford & Epsom Branch)

We are the RSPCA and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. Our volunteers are incredible and play an absolutely essential role in helping us carry out our important animal welfare work every day. Much of the RSPCA’s direct animal welfare work is carried out through the branches. These separately registered charities across England and Wales are run by volunteers who are unstinting in their work for animal welfare.

We are looking for friendly volunteers to help fundraise at fetes, in supermarkets and other outlets to collect vital donations that enable us to continue our animal welfare work. The more volunteers we have and funds we can raise, the more animals we can help!

Overview of the opportunity

In this role, you will be the friendly face of the RSPCA, helping us raise funds for our branch at community fetes and in local high streets, supermarkets and similar outlets.

This varied role offers you the chance to experience different volunteering positions, ranging from street collections and in-store fundraising drives to attendance at local community fetes. Each of these events are equally important to raising vital funds as well as raising our profile in the community.

Volunteering at events offers you the opportunity to meet other volunteers and learn about how you each support the RSPCA. You will most likely meet animals that we have rehomed and hear about their adoption journey.

If you have a relaxed dog that likes meeting people, you are welcome to bring them along with you to street collections and fundraising drives as this is always a conversation starter!

Location is dependent on the event at which you choose to volunteer, you will be out in the community in the local area

What you will be doing

(this list is not exhaustive but gives an idea of some of the tasks that you may be required to assist with.)

• Street collections and fundraising drives: standing with a collection bucket, greeting members of the public and thanking them for any donations.
•  Fetes and fairs: potentially assisting with set up or pack away, handling money from sales of chatting to members of the public and thanking them for any purchases they make.
•  Helping seek out event opportunities and organising them.

The skills you need

• No experience is necessary as we will provide you with the guidance you need.
•  Reliability and commitment.
•  Good organisational and communication skills.
•  Enjoy working with the general public.
•  Enthusiasm and passion for the work of the RSPCA.
•  We ask for a minimum of one hour of your time - we recommend a maximum of 2 hours at any one event as you will be standing.
•  You will need to be aged 18 years old or over to volunteer in this role unless you can be accompanied by an adult.

What's in it for you

•  Meet new people and make new friends
•  Learn great new skills to add to your CV
•  A great induction and training relevant to your role
•  Volunteer in a fun environment at the heart of the local community
• You'll be making a huge difference to the welfare of animals
•  Ongoing support, training and guidance will be provided.

PLEASE ONLY APPLY FOR THIS VACANCY IF YOU LIVE IN THE UK

Before you can start volunteering you’ll need to complete our simple online Health & Safety course and any associated training required for your role. Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees and depending on the position you may be required to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.