Community volunteer roles in abbey wood, greater london

We have a collection of books in our unique library, much of it donated by members of the community.

We are looking for a responsible person with the knowledge, skills and experience to repair/restore some old/damaged books, including reattach pages (Hard and soft cover books)

The work can be done in our premises or from home.

Join our team of befrienders! You will support us to reach some of the most isolated adults in your community to reduce their feelings of loneliness, build friendships and provide support for mental wellbeing. You will support people to relight a spark to continue a hobby, interest or encourage them to explore and participate in new social activities.

You will support individuals to rebuild their lives beyond crisis.

Loneliness and isolation can affect anyone in life, whatever their age or family situation. Official data from the Office for National Statistics shows that rates of depression doubled during the COVID pandemic, and one of the major causes of depression is isolation.

What you will be doing

• Agree a mutual time and frequency to meet in the local community
• To develop and promote a positive relationship with your befriendee
• To encourage your befriendee to engage in social activities and support them in doing so whilst building their confidence
• To support your befriendee in developing their goals and social skills
• Encourage your befriendee to make links with community services, based on their identified goals

The skills you need

• Good listening and communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere which motivates and inspires others
• Willingness to engage in activities in the community
• Able to maintain strict confidentiality and follow professional boundaries

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Fundraising volunteer

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you! 

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

This is a really flexible role, you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example: 

• face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins 

• online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations

• marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press  

• completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork

● championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement

● photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection

Time expectation

This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats

Join the London Wildlife Trust Youth Board 

Applications now open for 8 new Youth Board members (ages 16–25)

Are you passionate about nature, social justice, and making real change in your community? London Wildlife Trust is looking for enthusiastic, motivated young people from diverse backgrounds to join our Youth Board. The Youth Board consists of 15 motivated young people (aged 16-25) who are passionate about London’s wildlife and ensuring young people’s voices are heard. Over the year we meet every month in person at one of our London Wildlife Trust sites to discuss and plan a range of projects and topics. 

Why join?

• Paid-for residential nature retreat in Norfolk
• Monthly in-person meetings and mentoring from senior leaders
• Create campaigns, curate events, speak in front of new audiences, and more
• Training in leadership, public speaking, careers, and conservation
• Build your network, boost your CV, and inspire others
• All travel and food expenses covered

You do not need experience in nature or conservation — just passion, commitment, and a desire to create change.

Some examples of what we've achieved in 2024/25

• Created an eco-anxiety zine

• Wrote and produced a short film on connecting with nature in London

• Presented at events such as the Wildlife Trusts' Hope Week and House of Lords Maiden Speech

• Take part in interviews for Director vacancies in the Trust

• Meeting with the Deputy Mayor to discuss plans for London

Deadline: Sunday 3rd August at 11:59pm

 Must live in Greater London at least 7 months of the year (see GLA postcodes attached)
 Residential dates: 26–28 September
 Apply in writing, video or voice note 

Let your voice be heard! 

Job Purpose

One Place London is a community interest company located in West London, engaged in Acting for Film and Music Recording workshops for young people aged 14-25, unemployed or at risk of getting involved in crime. As a key member of the Engagement Team working at Youth & Community Centres in Ealing and West London, this post will work alongside the Sound Engineer, Film Director or both to deliver Song-writing / music recording workshops and Acting for Film Workshops repectively, for young people aged 14-25.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop, promote and deliver engaging Songwriting workshop, Acting for film workshop or both for young people.

• Support, mentor, coach and ‘walk alongside’ individuals in their pursuit of independence and community cohesion.

• Undertake risk assessments and support planning interviews with new participants.

• Engage third parties to deliver support and activities to young people.

• To act as an advocate for young people and to engage partner agencies and services appropriate to the young people’s needs.

• Actively encourage job search, training, and volunteering opportunities with young people who are not in education, employment, or training.

• Undertake risk assessments and support planning with young people.

• Undertake training and professional development.

• Anything else reasonably requested by the management of the CIC.

Person Specification & Key Competencies

Qualifications and Experience:

• Demonstrable experience of programme delivery in youth, adult or community-based service

• An ability and willingness to relate positively to young people, visitors and staff

• An outgoing and friendly personality, able to communicate well and engage a wide range of people

• Ability to react positively and effectively when faced with unwanted high-risk behaviours from young people, whether targeted towards themselves, staff, visitors or other young people.

• An understanding of safeguarding principles and procedures

• An understanding of the issues facing young people

• An understanding of equality and diversity matters.

Personal Attributes

• A genuine enthusiasm for the work of the CIC.

• An outgoing and friendly personality, able to communicate well and engage positively with a wide range of people including with young people, visitors and staff.

• The ability to motivate and inspire others

• An ability to work under pressure and manage challenging situations.

• Good organisational skills in order to manage a highly varied and unpredictable workload.

• A creative and flexible approach to work.

We are an equal opportunities CIC with commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace. A copy of this policy will be made available on request.

Please apply now for this rewarding position and be part of an amazing CIC who continue to support and achieve wonderful things within the west london community.

For further information on One Place London CIC, visit https://oneplace.london

Socials: @oneplacelondon

Travel expenses reimbursed only!

Location:   81 Brigstock Road, CR7 7JH or other areas within Croydon

Duration:   Ongoing, flexible commitment 

Reports To:   Volunteer Coordinator

About Age UK Croydon

At Age UK Croydon, our mission is to reach, involve, support, and connect older people so they can age well in Croydon. We work to reduce loneliness, promote well-being, and ensure older residents have access to the resources and support they need to enjoy a fulfilling later life.

Purpose

As a Volunteer with Age UK Croydon, you will play a vital role in helping us achieve our mission by engaging with the community and providing support. Your contribution will directly impact the well-being of older residents and help foster an inclusive, caring community.

Key Responsibilities

− Reach out to older adults through phone calls, home visits, or community events to reduce loneliness and promote social inclusion. 

− Assist in organising and supporting local events, activities, and outreach initiatives.

− Help coordinate and promote access to services such as information and advice, health and wellbeing programs, and social activities.

− Support with data entry, maintaining volunteer and participant records, and administrative tasks as needed. 

− Help distribute newsletters, flyers, and promotional materials.

− Assist in raising awareness about Age UK Croydon’s services through community engagement. 

− Respect client confidentiality and uphold the dignity and independence of older people. 

  Essential Skills and Qualities:

- Compassionate, patient, and empathetic nature 

- Good communication and active listening skills 

- Reliable, respectful, and sensitive to diversity and individual needs 

- Ability to work independently and as part of a team 

- Basic computer skills (for administrative tasks) are desirable but not essential

Commitment

- Flexible hours, typically ranging from a few hours a week to a regular schedule, to fit your availability 

- Commitment to safeguarding policies and confidentiality

Benefits of Volunteering

- Make a positive difference in the lives of older people 

- Develop new skills and gain valuable experience 

- Meet new people and become part of a supportive community 

- Receive training and ongoing support from our team

Age UK Croydon is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all volunteers and clients. All volunteers will be required to undertake relevant background DBS checks and training. 

Thank you for considering volunteering with Age UK Croydon—together, we can help older people age well in Croydon!

At MS Society all our activities and services are shaped by our MS community – people affected by MS, volunteers, staff and other experts. We aim to raise as much awareness as possible about MS, to ensure that people with MS have the support and information they need.

We've been successful in securing funding from Wales and West Utilities for a 'test and learn' Community Connections project (covering Wales and the South West of England) which will run until March 2026. 

Community Connections aims to: 

• Connect people with, and affected by, MS across Wales and the South West of England (Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire) with services, activities and resources to enable them to live well with MS.
• Develop links with local service providers which enable people with, and affected by, MS to access support and activities in their local areas, whilst improving connections within the community
• Provide information and guidance on a range of subjects, including advice about finances, cost of living-related information, energy efficiency information, carbon monoxide awareness and the Priority Service Register. 

As part of the project, we’re looking for volunteers to deliver MS Awareness sessions to partner organisations that the project will signpost to (such as Citizens Advice Bureau). MS Awareness volunteers will help us to ensure that these partner organisations are equipped to support people with MS (who will be accessing their activities and services). To help people to understand how people with MS feel.

Here’s an overview of what will be involved - 

• Delivering talks (via Zoom/Teams) to organisations to increase their understanding of MS and its symptoms. 

• Signposting to the relevant MS Society team for further information and practical support, as required.

• Note taking and helping us understand how effective sessions were 

• Attending regular volunteer support groups, where you will debrief and share experiences with other volunteers, as well as receive support from your supervisor.

We will support you to develop the skills you need for this role which will include an induction into all the areas outlined. You will have a chance to discuss your role and any additional needs you may have with us.

Pushpa

Pushpa is a diaspora fund that mobilises monthly contributions from people with Bangladeshi roots to collectively vote on and fund sustainable development projects back home.

We address poverty and climate vulnerability in Bangladesh, where communities face frequent natural disasters, limited economic opportunities, and lack of access to sustainable livelihoods. Our projects focus on empowering underserved populations - particularly women, marginalised and rural communities by creating a route to financial independence and building resilience against environmental challenges.

We operate as a diaspora fund that connects people with Bangladeshi roots to meaningful impact back home. Our community contributes monthly to a collective fund, then votes democratically on which locally-led projects to support in Bangladesh. We prioritise transparency through public financial tracking and focus on sustainable, long-term solutions over traditional charity models. By funding grassroots initiatives in areas like agriculture, women's empowerment, and climate resilience, we create economic opportunities that help communities become self-sufficient rather than dependent on aid.

We're building something the South Asian diaspora has never seen before - a fund that actually works how it should. Most diaspora giving is broken with money disappearing and communities staying dependent, but we're fixing that through full transparency, democratic voting, and focusing on economic independence over charity handouts. This is just the beginning - by 2030 we're building a holding company that creates new businesses furthering development for both Bangladesh and diaspora communities, turning funding into sustainable enterprise. We need people who can help us scale without losing what makes us different - community building, content that doesn't sound like every other charity, operations that keep us transparent, partnerships that make sense. The diaspora has money, skills, and connections, and we're proving it can create real change when done right.

Ready to help build it?

Legal Advisor - Corporate Structure

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

About Pushpa Pushpa is a diaspora fund that invests in the economic growth of our people back home. We're currently a limited by guarantee company considering conversion to CIC status as we expand into remittance services and direct investment in Bangladeshi social enterprises.

This role will provide the legal foundation we need to make informed decisions about our corporate structure before proceeding with subsidiary creation or investment processes. The successful volunteer will help us understand the implications of each structure and choose the optimal path for our community-focused growth.

Current Scale:

123 community members across UK, North America and Europe £1,273 per month in contributions 2 projects launched, 3rd being voted on this week 132 lives improved First corporate partner secured Team grown to 8 incredible volunteers

Responsibilities;

Analyse corporate structure options: Compare CIC vs Ltd by guarantee implications for Pushpa's growth plans, including operational differences, compliance requirements, and strategic impact

Assess subsidiary structures: Evaluate how each parent entity type (CIC vs Ltd) affects our ability to own and control subsidiaries (Investment and remittence entity) whilst maintaining mission alignment.

Review investment frameworks: Analyse how each structure impacts external investment opportunities, shareholder arrangements, and funding mechanisms for subsidiaries

Evaluate asset lock implications: If CIC conversion recommended, assess how asset lock rules affect subsidiary ownership, profit distribution, and operational flexibility

Provide conversion guidance: Deliver step-by-step recommendations for optimal structure choice, including legal documentation requirements, regulatory filings, and implementation timeline

Design governance frameworks: Recommend governance structures that preserve community control whilst enabling commercial growth and external investment

Ensure regulatory compliance: Identify ongoing compliance obligations, reporting requirements, and regulatory considerations for chosen structure and subsidiary operations

Deliver implementation roadmap: Create practical action plan with timelines, legal documentation templates, and next steps for structure optimisation

Nice to have; International investment experience: Understanding of UK-Bangladesh cross-border investment structures and regulatory considerations

Emerging market legal knowledge: Experience with South Asian legal frameworks and diaspora investment structures (beneficial)

Weekly Time Commitment

2-3 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

3-5 months

This role supports Aspire’s external messaging and local relationships, helping us stay visible, responsive, and connected. Volunteers in this role contribute to communications, digital content, and engagement with potential allies and funders.

Join HELPING CHILDREN INC – Make a Global Impact from Anywhere

HELPING CHILDREN INC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in California, USA, is seeking committed, passionate, and qualified individuals from every country to serve as Online Volunteer Country Directors. This is a remote leadership opportunity to represent HELPING CHILDREN INC in your country and play a key role in advancing our mission to protect, support, and empower children globally.

�� About HELPING CHILDREN INC

We are a global nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children through health, education, protection, and empowerment programs. From humanitarian aid to policy advocacy, our work spans continents and cultures – driven by a commitment to equity and justice.

�� Role: Online Volunteer Country Director

Location: Your country (fully remote)
Time Commitment: Flexible (minimum 5–8 hours per week)
Compensation: Volunteer / Unpaid
Reporting to: Global Volunteer Coordinator, HELPING CHILDREN INC

��️ Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the official country representative of HELPING CHILDREN INC

• Establish and grow a network of volunteers in your country

• Identify local needs and opportunities to implement or partner on child-focused projects

• Organize virtual awareness campaigns, fundraising, and outreach events

• Coordinate with the international team for reporting and alignment with global strategy

• Represent HELPING CHILDREN INC in local forums, events, or online platforms

• Promote HELPING CHILDREN INC through local partnerships and media

✅ Ideal Candidate

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Passionate about child rights, education, health, and protection

• Fluent in English (basic proficiency required)

• Active in their local communities or online networks

• Strong communicators with leadership or coordination experience

• Able to commit time consistently and responsibly

• Tech-savvy and capable of using email, Google Drive, and Zoom

• Students, professionals, educators, activists, and retired individuals are welcome

�� Benefits to You

• Serve a meaningful cause from the comfort of your home

• Gain global nonprofit leadership experience

• Receive a Certificate of Appointment as Country Director

• Access to exclusive training, resources, and networking opportunities

• Be featured on HELPING CHILDREN INC’s website and social media as an ambassador

• Contribute ideas to global child development projects

• Opportunity to lead your own team of volunteers in-country

�� Join Us and Be the Voice for Children in Your Country

Together, we can create a better world for children—no matter where we are. Become an Online Country Director with HELPING CHILDREN INC and help bring lasting change.

Would you like me to also prepare a Google Form template for application submission or provide a version

Enhanced Professional Development Programme (ePDP)
Part-time | Volunteer | Remote | 12 hrs/week | 16-week commitment

“We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer-enhanced professional development programme and gain real-world experience in your chosen field. While we only have three vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria.”

About Us

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.Our mission is to encourage unity across diverse communities, sharing and celebrating cultural lessons through workshops, training programmes, events and research. We challenge racial and societal stereotypes while delivering practical initiatives such as unconscious bias training in the workplace. We develop and deliver projects that promote inclusion, representation, and social change by partnering with local organisations and stakeholders.

Role Description

Quilombo UK is looking for a highly motivated and experienced Services Sales Executive to join our team through the Enhanced Professional Development Programme (ePDP). This is a target-driven, client-facing volunteer sales role focused on direct outreach and conversion of potential service users into paying clients. You will be responsible for actively identifying leads, initiating conversations, pitching our services, and closing deals.

The successful candidate will sell Quilombo UK’s key service offerings:

• Workshops (e.g. Unconscious Bias, Inclusive Leadership)

• Training Programmes

• Research Services

• Event & Partnership Opportunities
   

As a member of the Sales & Business Development function, you will be managed by a Director and accountable for results that directly impact the organisation’s financial sustainability and growth. This role provides real-world, high-impact experience that mirrors the standards and performance expectations of a paid sales role.

Main Responsibilities

• Proactively research and identify prospective clients aligned with Quilombo UK’s mission and services

• Initiate direct outreach (calls, emails, online meetings) to decision-makers across public and private sectors

• Deliver compelling sales pitches and presentations tailored to each client’s needs

• Handle end-to-end sales processes, from lead generation and qualification through to closing deals

• Secure confirmed bookings or contracts for services, including workshops, training, research, or event partnerships

• Develop and maintain a strong client pipeline, updating CRM or tracking systems regularly

• Consistently meet or exceed weekly/monthly KPIs related to outreach, meetings, and conversions

• Collaborate with the Director to refine messaging and sales strategy for maximum impact

• Maintain a consultative, value-led sales approach while staying aligned with Quilombo UK’s mission and ethos

• Provide performance updates and sales reports to the Director and Senior Leadership Team

• Stay updated on industry trends, client needs, and potential growth areas relevant to our services

Essential

• Demonstrated experience in a sales, business development, or account management role

• Proven track record of generating leads and closing deals, preferably in a service-based or social enterprise environment

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Strong presentation and negotiation abilities

• Confidence to work independently and take initiative, while collaborating within a remote team

• Passion for social justice, community engagement, and inclusion

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Desirable

• Familiarity with CRM tools and remote communication platforms

• Experience selling services to the public sector or third-sector organisations

• Understanding of social enterprises or community-based businesses

• Ability to work without close supervision and meet deadlines

What We Offer

• Real-world, results-driven sales experience with clear KPIs and performance feedback

• A unique opportunity to influence revenue and impact within a mission-driven organisation

• Coaching and mentoring from experienced directors and leadership

• A collaborative, diverse, and inclusive environment

• Certificate of completion and reference upon successful programme completion

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID, and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday, Wednesday and/or Friday.

Application Process

Our HR team will contact you upon successful application to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, onboarding documents will be sent. Once completed, you’ll be invited to a 6-hour HR and Systems Induction, followed by a meeting with your assigned Director for your first day.

Job Type: Part-time (Volunteer)
Expected Hours: 12 per week
Location: Remote
Schedule: Monday to Friday | Day Shift | No Weekends

Wimbledon Guild is recruiting a new Trustee to Chair our Talking Therapies Committee for our experienced and established Board. We are looking for people who have the professional skills and personal passion to help us deliver support services to adults in Merton with the ambition that no-one should face life’s challenges alone.

About Wimbledon Guild

Wimbledon Guild is a community charity offering practical help and support so that people in Merton never have to face life’s challenges alone.

Whether someone is worried about money, they’re feeling low or overwhelmed, or they’re looking for new friends and activities locally, we’re always here.

Wimbledon Guild is more than just a place, we're a real community where everyone belongs.

We’ve supported our community for over 100 years and continue to grow our services in response to local needs and aspirations.

We are passionate about providing holistic services  tackling issues such as social isolation, financial hardship, emotional  and mental health difficulties. We also have an extensive activity programme aimed at keeping older people active and healthy. We have earned a reputation for delivering excellent services and we collaborate closely with other local and national organisations to ensure that our approach is dynamic and relevant.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a strong professional background in adult social care, counselling or mental health services to join a well-established and effective Board, and to contribute their experience to ensure that Wimbledon Guild achieves its goals. The Committee Chair will be responsible for representing the Talking Therapies Committee at Board meetings, as well as fulfilling all of the general duties of an active trustee. These include helping to develop strategy, providing oversight, and promoting the highest standards of corporate governance.

About You

The Talking Therapies Committee Chair should demonstrate the following qualities:

- A clear and confident communicator who has experience working at a senior level.

- An ability to take over existing projects and ensure that these are on track for successful delivery.

- A strong professional background in adult social care, mental health services, counselling or related professions

- A willingness to be a committed Board member, and to contribute actively to a skilled and experienced Board.

- A commitment to Wimbledon Guild’s objectives and to the Merton community.

- An understanding of and commitment to our  Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistants to support our face-to-face study programme called ‘Get Ready for School.’ 

This programme is attended by young people out of education and is based in Tooting on Mondays and Wednesdays. Core delivery of the programme includes English, Maths, Digital skills, complemented by Reading and Writing for Pleasure.

Volunteers in this role are required to commit to at least one 2-hour session per week, during these times:

• Monday 10am - 3pm
• Tuesday 2pm - 6pm
• Wednesday 11am - 6pm

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer  Tasks and Responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within ESOL classes;

• Help young people to build confidence in digital literacy;

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;

• Engaging learners in informal conversations or games during breaks to help them practice their conversational English.

• Checking the session plan aims with the lead teacher and assisting learners achieve them;

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project;

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential 

• To be 18 years or older;

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (travel and food expenses can be reimbursed);

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds;

• To be reliable and punctual;

• Excellent communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;

• The ability to volunteer on Monday mornings and Wednesday afternoons/evenings during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum seeker or refugee status

• Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check (DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a Caras community member who is more recently arrived in the UK);

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

Desirable 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering 

To Apply: 

To apply for this opportunity, download and complete the CARAS volunteer application form from the CARAS website using this volunteer role description to inform your answers with email subject header “Youth ESOL Teaching Assistant Volunteer”. 

Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with a member of the CARAS learning staff team and a community member. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP! 

 All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. 

Trailblazers’ mission is to reduce re-offending and inspire new futures. Your support will help a young man to reconnect with his community, friends and loved ones, go into education, training and employment, and give a person a sense of hope for the future.

Trailblazers has been providing mentoring services to people in prison since 1998 with ultimate aim to reduce re-offending. We provide support to men between the age of 18 - 35 in custody who have 6 months left of their prison sentence, and then 'through the gate' into their own community for up to 12 months. The Education, Training & Employment (ETE) team supports our mentees in custody to break down barriers to employability. Post-release, this continues by supporting mentees to gain meaningful and career changing roles in sector specific industries such as Construction, Engineering, Catering & Hospitality or the Self-Employment route. 

The ETE team are looking to build a team of volunteers to work with mentees in the community and to shape the existing ETE service in the Thames Valley area. We are looking for volunteer mentors who can commit for up to 12 months and give a few hours a week to support men to change their life by being inspirational role models, helping with goal setting and supporting their mentee to access ETE opportunities and ultimately gain meaningful employment. Mentoring sessions will be 1:1, take place weekly and can be done remotely by telephone or online. These sessions will last approximately one hour, but some time should also be given to liaising with Trailblazers staff and researching relevant opportunities. 

Induction training is provided, out of pocket expenses covered, a mobile phone is provided to protect your identity, a Trailblazers T-shirt and lanyard are provided, DBS costs are covered, as well as regular reflective practice sessions to support you within your role. 

We are actively looking for people to join our mentoring community with lived experience of the criminal justice system, under represented groups from BAME community, creative arts, business skills, wellbeing - whatever your skills and background we are open to hear from you to support our diverse group of men. 

Trailblazers are looking for Volunteer Mentors who are:

• Empathetic with a positive outlook and manner.
• Able to help others without judgement or discrimination.
• Excellent communicators with a sense of humour.
• Well organised, can prioritise and multi-task.
• Reliable and able to commit to the role for up to 12 months providing weekly ETE sessions remotely either by telephone or via Zoom / MS Team digital platforms.
• Have skills and experience in supporting those who are disadvantaged into education, training and employment (ETE).
• Able to work independently with the ability to prioritise and manage your own workload with minimal supervision taking a flexible and creative approach to the demands of the post.
• Able to demonstrate sensitivity to other cultures, working with people from other backgrounds and demonstrate a commitment to equal opportunities.