Community volunteer roles in thornton heath, greater london

​We hold new volunteer inductions at the start of each term, so apply ASAP to be in time to join our next induction.

Action for Refugees in Lewisham works to relieve poverty and isolation amongst refugees, asylum seekers and other vulnerable migrants in Lewisham. At the Rainbow Club supplementary school we aim to help children between the ages of 4 and 11 to improve their literacy, numeracy and social skills in a friendly and supportive environment.  We need your skills and enthusiasm to assist the teacher in the delivery of a literacy and numeracy class and work with other volunteers to develop a programme of recreational activities. The Rainbow Club runs on Saturday mornings during term-time.

Your duties will include:

• Arriving punctually for the 9am briefing by the Rainbow Club Headteacher;
• Working in a team with other volunteers and teachers to deliver literacy, numeracy, arts, sport activities – this includes ensuring children remain engaged throughout the lesson and carry out set tasks as instructed by the teacher;
• Working one-to-one with specific children if and when required;
• Filing classroom work and homework in children’s individual files and keeping all materials and resources tidy and properly stored;
• Liaising with parents as and when required for example distributing leaflets and news about future meetings and events and also assisting with parents' day;
• Following the teacher’s policies on discipline and classroom management;
• Supervising the children during break times;
• Supporting the children during class trips;
• Ensuring classrooms are clean and tidy at the end of each day – this may include being part of a regular team rota;
• Providing feedback and comments to the Rainbow Club Headteacher when required.

Dear Prospective Trustee

Thank you for your interest in Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML). This pack sets out more information about the charity, the board, the role of a trustee, and how to apply.

We are excited about the future and are looking for energetic, talented and committed individuals to help support the charity as trustees to continue its incredible work for the people of Merton and Lambeth.

What we do

CAML is one of the busiest advice charities in London.  We support individuals and families who live, work or study primarily in the London Boroughs of Merton and Lambeth and also elsewhere (dependent on service).  We also work to raise awareness and understanding of the challenging issues affecting individuals and our communities.

We were one of the first Citizens Advice services to open our doors over 85 years ago. We have had an extremely busy few years, with individuals and families increasingly seeking our support with the cost of living crisis.  Our support and services are as important today as they were when our work began.

We are part of the national Citizens Advice network of over 240 local charities that deliver advice across the country.

In FY 23/24, we supported over 25,000 individuals.  Our information, support and advice services are provided via telephone, online, video conferencing and face-to-face.  We provide face-to-face support from two CAML offices and multiple outreach venues in local communities.  Our aim is to empower people to better help themselves, but we are always here with further support if needed. 

CAML in 2025

CAML is at an important point in its history. Demand for our services continues to accelerate as high levels of hardship become an established reality for many people living in our boroughs.  The two boroughs we serve contain pockets of wealth and affluence, but also feature areas of significant poverty and deprivation where our services are most depended upon.

At the same time, similar to many charities, we face funding challenges – not least given the majority of our funds come from our local authorities. Our current turnover is over £1.2m a year. Like others, CAML faces funding challenges often related to changes in central government policies and local government financial challenges, with a need to look at new ways of diversifying income streams.

The organisation has a strong foundation from which to deliver in this difficult environment – particularly with a team that is committed to our clients and expert in giving quality advice. We also have positive working relationships with our funders, councils and partners, and a strong local reputation.

Our leadership

The operational leadership and management of CAML is carried out by our CEO, Simon Shimmens, with three senior managers and a team of around 40 staff and 20 volunteers. Short biographies of our existing trustees are available on our website.

The role of the Board

Each trustee has a responsibility to contribute to discharging the Board’s responsibilities. We do this by:

● Regularly preparing for, attending and participating in meetings

● Understanding the business of CAML

● Contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance

● Monitoring our services, ensuring compliance with our governing documents and policies and monitoring maintenance of Citizens Advice standards

● Monitoring the charity’s financial position and ensuring it operates within its means and delivers on its objectives with clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management

● Supporting the charity’s development through participation in agreed projects

● Actively seeking to further CAML’s strategic objectives and acting in its best interest at all times

Above all we are looking for people with strategic vision and independent judgement who together can support the charity and its executive team. As trustees we are visible to our staff and volunteers, engaging and recognising the excellent work they do. Each trustee is expected to spend time with service delivery staff and volunteers, ideally at least once a year. 

You will be a genuine team player, able to support colleagues, input constructively and positively to discussions and to support and uphold collective decisions. 

As a trustee you will support the charity’s values and objectives and will act as a positive and genuine advocate promoting the work of the charity within your personal networks and to the wider world. 

The commitment we need

Each trustee attends quarterly Board meetings and is a member of one of the delegated authority sub-committees – Finance and People – which also meet once a quarter.

While the precise nature will differ month-to-month, this is likely to average at eight to ten hours a month. This allows for board and committee meetings, reading papers in advance of these, ad-hoc actions and discussions, and visiting CAML’s services.

Board meetings are currently held in person in our Mitcham Office, with sub-committee meetings held remotely. Across the Board, we attend key events such as Volunteers’ Week and charity events/activities.

Particular skills/experiences we’re seeking

We are looking to recruit two new trustees to join our strong and dynamic Board.

We would particularly welcome applications from those with skills and experiences to help complement the current Board. Our priority recruitment areas are:

●HR: We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of governance in policies and practice related to employee relations, recruitment, retention, reward and recognition as well as staff and trustee training and development. We are seeking a trustee with senior HR experience to support the strategic oversight of our People approach.

●Accountancy: Financial oversight is an integral part of a well-functioning trustee Board. We are looking to further bolster this expertise within the Board to provide support for our Treasurer if required.

●Pensions: CAML has a legacy Defined Benefit pension scheme (closed to new entrants) and a Defined Contribution scheme. We are looking for an individual with actuarial or pension trustee skills to advise the Board with regard to our pension schemes, and whether we should be looking to make any changes.

●Legal: We are looking to further expand our legal expertise on the Board. We particularly welcome interest from individuals with experience in charity law however all applicants with legal experience are welcomed.

In addition to these skills, we would welcome applications from candidates with previous trustee experience and/or applicants who may be open to taking on the role of Vice-Chair (further information can be provided on this if requested).

The benefits of being a trustee with CAML

Although the role of a trustee is unpaid (reasonable out of pocket expenses are reimbursed), there are many reasons to join us, including:

● Being a trustee is one of the most powerful ways in which you can contribute to your local community and to a cause you care about.

● Corporations of all sizes take voluntary and community enriching activities seriously with trusteeship considered an effective method of professional development and community engagement.

● Being a trustee is a fantastic way of developing your strategic experience and oversight, giving you the opportunity to develop your critical thinking, problem solving and analytical skills.

● Being a trustee can open up your professional network.

How to apply

Follow the link to our website and complete the relevant documents at the bottom of the advert.

We are recruiting on a rolling basis and are considering applications as and when we receive them. This recruitment remains live until 30th June 2025.

All applications are considered by a trustee panel, with shortlisted candidates then invited to an interview, to take place within a month of receiving their application. 

We are registered with the Information Commissioner's Office and will process your personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018. Please refer to our online Privacy Policy for more information on how your personal data will be processed and stored.

Role Description:

The Safe Space is a local hub for anyone who feels they are nearing crisis point. We are here to listen to what you need and work with you to help. These might be strategies to help you cope in the moment, a range of activities that we provide free of charge, resources to take away or connect you with practical local services. As a part of this, we are looking for volunteers to offer support to individuals who may access our crisis drop-in services. This includes a variety of tasks, which include greeting individuals, offering a cup of tea and biscuits, general reception duties, supporting 1:1 session, completing administrative tasks and generally keeping clients engaged and safe on our premises.

We are looking for someone who

• Has lived experience of mental health/social crisis
• Preferably have had experience working with people who experience poor mental health
• Are comfortable with co-producing and facilitating peer led workshops where applicable if required.
• Are willing to actively participate with clients 1:1 and in group settings
• Are able to take on any ad hoc admin/support responsibilities within the Safe Space Team

Time commitment and expenses:

• Minimum 6 months commitment, offer I day per week during our opening hours of 2pm–10pm.  Please indicate your preferred volunteering day(s) plus preferred site (H&F, Ealing or Hounslow) on your application.
• We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role 
• Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed where required.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering at Mind is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a nationally recognised charity, and volunteering in Safe Space is an opportunity to experience and get involved in crisis support. We provide initial and ongoing training, as well as plenty of opportunities for progression within the organisation. You will also be a part of a supportive team with great awareness of wellbeing and the mental health sector.

BoB Trustee Specification- June 2025 

Build on Belief is a charity dedicated to helping people who have, or have had issues with drugs and alcohol use, working to improve and sustain their health and wellbeing in order they can recover to lead fulfilling lives. Bring your experience and skills to become a voluntary trustee for a growing and innovative organisation and help make a difference across diverse communities in London and the South-East. If you’ve experience in the health care sector and perhaps even your own lived experience, then you could help us take the organisation forward.

What you will be doing 

Along with other members of the Board, you will be responsible for providing the strategic and practical governance of an enthusiastic and innovative organisation. As a Lived Experience Recovery Organisation for people with histories of drug and alcohol problems we are a pioneering and innovative charity. 

BoB helps build the “social capital’ of people who are on a journey of recovery from histories of alcohol, illicit or prescribed drugs. Many of our service users and volunteers across our ten London and South-East projects have associated mental and physical health problems, along with histories of homelessness and unemployment.

We largely operate a structure where we recruit volunteers from our service users, and our managers from our volunteer pool, once trained. Our CEO, most managers and some members of the Board have lived experience, and many have been through the drug and alcohol treatment system. This ‘unique’ structure, we believe, gives a high level of peer led understanding of needs and responses.  

In terms of key responsibilities, trustees are expected to: 

• Attend and contribute to Board (six evening meetings (2hrs) a year at Earls Court and/or online) and related meetings and share in decision making about all significant issues that impact on BoB. 

• Work with the Chief Executive and senior leadership team to practically support and develop the design and operation of new areas of service delivery as well as providing input and oversight to help everyday operations.

• Ensure that as a diverse Lived Experience Recovery Organisation, trustees continue to keep the interests and needs of those recovering from addiction at the forefront of governance. 

• Develop and regularly monitor the implementation of BoB’s strategy. 

• Oversee BoB’s work, ensuring accountability, strategically managing finances and risks, protecting charity assets, adopting and updating policies and procedures so they are fit for purpose and that the charities resources are used efficiently and effectively. 

• Act as custodian of BoB’s values and long-term future, ensuring that the organisation is complying with its constitution, and is managed prudently and lawfully. 

• Using contacts and networks to help BoB grow and develop and to be an active ambassador for the organisation. 

• Other duties required and expected of a Trustee/Company Director, including ad-hoc task groups and very occasional weekend visits to services across London and the South-East of England. 

What we are looking for 

Our Trustee Board comprises people who have good skills and experience in financial operations, corporate strategic marketing and communications, health care, HR, information technology and legal matters. However, we are at a stage of development where we wish to broaden and strengthen our governance with an additional trustee who has a background as an experienced health care practitioner, to join us on a voluntary basis to help take the organisation forward. 

If you’ve experience as a health care sector practitioner, then you could make a significant contribution to our development. 

We are open to a variety of professional health care backgrounds, including: 

• Experience in health care, clinical or public health, ideally in the fields of drug and alcohol addictions, primary care or mental health. 

• Experience as a registered doctor, nurse or psychologist. 

• Familiarity of services and interventions aimed at supporting people with complex needs. 

We are very open to bringing on board people who can support us becoming a more inclusive organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, women and other underrepresented groups, including those with disabilities and from LGBTQI communities. We are also very open to recruiting someone who may have their own lived experience of addictions and adversity to draw upon. What counts will be your enthusiasm, commitment, competence and interest in taking on a trustee and governance role. 

We seek a trustee who can collaborate at governance and staff level, and work effectively with others across our organisation, in person and, where appropriate, remotely. 

Qualities Required 

Trustees are expected to: 

• Share BoB’s values and aspirations along with having empathy with those seeking to rebuild their lives from histories of problem substance use.

• Have the expertise, skills, life experience and personal qualities to help form an effective and diverse Board. 

• Roll up their sleeves to provide practical support to the CEO and leadership team to achieve our strategy. 

• Demonstrate a willingness to adhere to the BoB Code of Conduct. 

• Be able to fully discharge the legal requirements of being a trustee and company director. 

What difference will you make? 

We are looking for a volunteer trustee to join us on our Board of Trustees/Directors that currently meets once every two months on the first Tuesday evening of the month between 6:00pm and 8pm, usually face-to-face meetings In Earls Court. 
The impact we look to you and other trustees to make includes: 

• better strategic development and governance oversight 

• taking on a lead oversight role for specific initiatives (eg: health and wellbeing of staff, volunteers & service users; organisational developments such as social prescribing, harm reduction efforts; safeguarding)) 

• helping forge new partnerships with others to support the implementation of our strategy 

• using your practical skills and experience to support our small central staff team 

• helping raise the profile of BoB with potential supporters and funders. We want to demonstrate the contribution that peer run social support can make to tackling the stigma that goes with drug and alcohol problems. 

• delivering on our commitment to having more diversity and voices from different cultures in our leadership 

What's in it for the volunteer? 

This role offers a good opportunity for someone interested in a grass-roots South-East based charity, getting Board experience, or for someone new to senior management or a new charity. With us you will be able to add real value and have a crucial input using your interest and skills to help the organisation flourish and develop and reach new ‘audiences’. 

Much is made of the idea of co-production but at BoB we take this one step further by enabling peer support. By joining our Board, you can bring your professional and/or personal experience to nurture and enthuse people recovering from drug and alcohol problems to reach out and support others, using their talents and interests. 

A few more details on application process  

Our deadline for applications is Monday 30 June. 

• Please submit a CV with a covering letter which must address three questions (see below). 

• We aim to be flexible with interview dates, to include early evenings but aim to hold them during the summer. 

• If you need any particular support if you are invited to an interview, then please make this clear in your supporting statement (see below). 

• We plan to have a three-month induction and familiarisation process before final confirmation as a trustee. Once appointed, Trustees are expected to serve a minimum three-year term of office. This is a voluntary and non-paid position.

• Your Supportive Statement or covering letter should address three questions: 

1. Why are you interested in becoming a trustee of BoB? 

1. What insights and experiences can you bring to our Board? 

1. Is there anything in your background that we should be aware of that might be relevant to you becoming a trustee/company director? 

About Build on Belief 

Objectives 

Build on Belief (BoB) is a Lived Experience Recovery Organisation (LERO), registered as a charity that is changing the face of the drug and alcohol treatment and the recovery system in London and the Southeast. Our services are run by people who have had their own experiences of drug and alcohol addiction and understand not only what it’s like first-hand, but also the struggle people often have to reach and maintain recovery. After all, who is better placed to understand what someone with substance use issues is going through than someone who has been there themselves?

Socially focused activities 

As the addiction lifestyle can be all-consuming, it’s also important to find new interests that help to fill the void many people are faced with in early recovery. With this in mind BoB runs a range of sports, art and music workshops and clubs that provide the opportunity to try something new, meet new people, have fun and maybe even fulfil a lifelong ambition to play in a rock and roll band or try out yoga. We provide an open-minded and supportive atmosphere that gives people the confidence to try out new activities and find a sense of purpose and belonging. Often people who come along to our ten local social clubs across London, Sussex and now Buckinghamshire feel a sense of belonging they have not had for a long time, if ever. Some of us feel like we are part of a family. 

All of our drop-in services run at the weekend and some during the week. Where we can, we aim to give our service users access to opportunities such as: music workshops, sports clubs, arts, alternative therapies, food and drink, gardening and allotments and a strong sense of community. We also run a recovery café, CBT support group and sports clubs during the week and on-line offer LGBTQI support groups. With nearly 40% of our service users being people from diverse ethnic communities we are very keen to see that our volunteers, staff and trustees reflect the diversity where we work. 

To complement these local peer-led social activities we have also developed an on-line programme to support peoples’ recovery journey. Whether its Recovery Support sessions offered 6 days a week, quizzes and games, hands on creative groups (Art Together, Creative Writing, Play Reading) or other well-being focused groups (Yoga, Mindfulness, Tai-Chi and more).

Music workshops, sports clubs, arts, alternative therapies, food and drink, and a strong sense of community are just some of the things on offer to anyone who visits us.  

Our deadline for applications is Monday 30 June. 

Our Linked Minds Befriending Project supports people who are socially isolated in Ealing and Hounslow due to a diagnosed mental health problem.

This is an opportunity to become a Befriender.

On successful completion of specialist mental health training, the Befriender is matched with someone suitable, by a Co-ordinator who then acts as a (non-clinical) supervisor for the befriending period, which is limited to a year. (Where applicable, this can count towards continuous professional development).

Befriender, client and supervisor make a plan together with a goal to work towards, and the Befriender makes a weekly 1-2 hour visit to the client's home, where they might stay in and chat over a cup of tea, go out for a walk together, visit a cafe or undertake a local activity. 

These visits make such a difference for the client, increasing their confidence and helping them explore and work towards getting a job, joining a club, meeting other people or whatever their goal may be.

The aim is that, by the end of the year, clients feel better about themselves, more valued, resilient, empowered, more linked to their community and better equipped for their journeys in recovery.

But volunteering with BEfriend not only enriches the lives of those who are isolated, it also offers immense personal rewards.

As a Befriender, you’ll get to know inspirational people with fascinating stories, develop new skills and be part of a supportive team that values compassion and connection.

Overview:

The Vice-Chair will provide governance and strategic support, ensuring strong board engagement and external advocacy. This role focuses on maintaining board effectiveness, stakeholder relationships, and operational oversight while assisting with non-financial fundraising initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Governance & Board Leadership:

• Work closely with the Chair to oversee governance and compliance.

• Ensure trustees are engaged, informed, and fulfilling their roles effectively.

• Chair board meetings in the Chair’s absence and ensure inclusive decision-making.

Fundraising & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Assist in developing and executing fundraising strategies.

• Represent CWV at external meetings, networking events, and with donors.

• Support the development of partnerships with businesses and local organisations.

• Encourage board members to contribute actively to fundraising efforts.

Operational & Team Support:

• Monitor team morale and performance, ensuring an efficient work environment.

• Assist in volunteer recruitment and structuring their roles effectively.

• Support the Operations Manager and Coordinator in streamlining organisational processes.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience in governance, strategic planning, or nonprofit leadership.

• Strong communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.

• Background in fundraising, stakeholder engagement, or nonprofit operations preferred.

• Passion for community work and empowering young people.

�� Call for Online Volunteer Country Directors – Africa
Organization: HELPING CHILDREN INC (Nonprofit Registered in California, USA)
Position Type: Remote | Volunteer | Unpaid
 

HELPING CHILDREN INC is seeking passionate individuals to serve as Online Volunteer Country Directors in the following African countries:

Northern Africa: Algeria, Mauritania, Morocco, Libya
West Africa: Niger, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Togo, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone
Central Africa: Angola, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe, Central African Republic
Southern Africa: Botswana, Eswatini (Swaziland), Lesotho, Namibia
East Africa: Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Zimbabwe

�� Requirements:

• Passionate about child rights

• Local knowledge & community connections

• Internet access and basic digital skills

• Able to volunteer ~5 hours/week

�� To Apply:
Send your CV and a passport-sized photo 
Subject: “Country Director – [Your Country]”

Let’s build a brighter future for children—together. ��

Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.

Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.

As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.

This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)

2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member

The International Council of Museums in the United Kingdom (ICOM UK) is seeking a new trustee with strong financial acumen and a passion for the museums and heritage sector and working internationally to be the Finance Lead on our Board. This is a strategic finance role to support the Strategic Director and advise the Board of Trustees in respect of the conduct of the charity’s financial affairs.  

The role requires experience and skills in financial planning and management, preferably in a charity and/or company, along with the ability to understand and communicate the impact of decisions on the organisation’s finances. 

We welcome applications from professionals with the skills, knowledge and lived experience that will strengthen and diversify our Board. 

 For further details on the roles and ICOM UK, you can view our Finance Lead Trustee Recruitment  Pack. 

PUBLICITY & MARKETING VOLUNTEER

Across the UK, our 65 local branches work with disabled people to help them live the lives they choose. Our network of skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests each year to design and make customised equipment free of charge.

Our Publicity & Marketing volunteers play an essential role in publicising and raising awareness of their local branch’s activities.

What the role involves

This is a varied role that each branch tends to do a bit differently, but it will involve:

• Collecting case studies from the clients we help

• Writing stories for the local press

• Distributing literature

• Arranging talks

• Working with the Central Team to promote panel activities

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you’ll need for this role

• Confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email

• Confident using social media platforms

• Warm, approachable and confident to engage with clients to gather their story

• Able to follow REMAP policies and procedures

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• A commitment to our values

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and some online training.

If it works better for you, there’s a possibility this role could be done remotely.

Why volunteer

When you volunteer with us, you join a community of committed people with a passion for helping to improve the lives of others. We’re a volunteer led organisation and we couldn’t do what we do without your hard work, skills and commitment.

N.B. We’ll reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses during your time with us.

Role: Data Volunteer
Organisation: Street Child 
Location: Central London 
Start date:  ASAP 
Commitment: Minimum 3 months, 3 days a week, 1 day in office 
Benefits: Unpaid role (Travel expense covered) 

About Street Child: 

Street Child believes that every child deserves the chance to go to school and learn. Our projects focus on a combination of education, child protection and livelihood support to address the social, economic and structural issues that underpin today’s education crisis. We partner with local organisations and communities to deliver our locally rooted programmes, using evidence to drive learning and the refinement and scale up of programmes to create maximum impact for the most children at the lowest cost. We pride ourselves on being willing to go to the world’s toughest places where others won’t, including remote, hard-to-reach areas and fragile, disaster-affected states across sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Since 2008 we have helped over 250,000 children to go to school and learn, supported over 25,000 families to set up businesses so they can afford the cost of educating their children. 

About the Role:

We are in the process of implementing a fundraising CRM to efficiently manage our outreach activities. To support this project, we are seeking to recruit a Data Volunteer who can help us clean and migrate the historical fundraising data into the new database. This is an entry-level role, best suited for a candidate who is interested in developing a career in data. Data skills are high in demand so will suit someone keen on learning new data skills to enhance their CV. For the right candidate this will provide an opportunity to learn how not-for-profit organisations work and enable them an entry into the charity sector. 

Ideally, we are looking for someone with good Excel skills (any knowledge of additional data tools such as MS Access, Power Query, etc will be an advantage), and some understanding of data related process. Hands-on training will be provided to the right candidate. As the focus of this role will be on enhancing the quality of the data, we are seeking a highly organised person who can pay greatest attention to detail. As part of this role you will be working with our database project lead.

To succeed in this role, we need someone with: 

• Excellent eye for detail and a commitment to high standards 
• Interest in learning data skills and have good Excel skills 
• Good inter-personal skills and the ability to interact with the wider Street Child UK team 
• A passion for Street Child’s mission 

We are looking for volunteers who can work for a minimum of 3 days a week (minimum 1 day in the office) for a minimum of 3 months. Ideal for those who live in the Greater London area as we will be able to provide transport costs only up to £25. 

How to apply:

Please send your CV and a covering letter and explain why you are the perfect candidate for this role. We will be reviewing applications as we receive them, so interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. 

Street Child’s commitment to Safeguarding:

Street Child is committed to the safeguarding and protection of the communities we serve, our partners, our volunteers, and our staff. As part of this commitment to safeguarding, volunteers will be subject to appropriate background checks, including a Criminal Records check. 

Are you creative? Would you like to support others to express their emotions through arts and crafting?

Art plays a valuable role in mental wellbeing with research showing that crafting, regardless of the medium you use can boost your mood, self-confidence and reduce stress overall. Taking part in art-based activities increases our resilience and engages us in the here and now. You will be supporting people to express their emotions, provide a time for people to relax and feel proud of their final art products!

We are recruiting for a volunteer to support and facilitate an art and craft group.

Hestia has a variety of different services that support people across London and the South East. These services support people that are struggling with their mental health, are victims of Domestic Abuse or Modern Slavery, and more. Join our team of volunteers who play a vital role in what we do! We work with people who need support with their mental health across London and the South East. Our support ranges from registered accommodation services for people with severe mental health conditions to drop-in community and crisis services.

In the last year, 9,499 adults accessed Hestia’s mental health support.

We help people to feel safe, develop hope for a better future, and achieve their personal goals. These goals may include rebuilding relationships with family members and friends or connecting more with their local community.

What you will be doing

• To prepare arts and craft sessions, involving individuals in the planning process where possible
• Inspire and motivate individuals to develop their arts and craft skills, assisting them in the creation of their projects and supporting them to brainstorm and use their own initiative
• Encourage individuals to continue independent activities

The skills you need

• Experience of arts and/or crafts either in a professional, educational, or personal level
• Able to collaborate with individuals to plan an art group session and facilitate confidently
• A calm and patient manner
• Ability to provide a trusting, open, kind-hearted atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• An effective communicator with a patient and sympathetic nature

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 - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

Disclaimer

Hestia is proud to be a Disability Confident employer. Should you require our role pack in an alternative format or wish to discuss any reasonable adjustments you may need for your interview, please contact hestia. As part of the process of volunteering, all applicants will need to complete a DBS and references. If you have any convictions/cautions, this does not mean that you cannot apply for any of our roles, however we do require a DBS for all positions. We ensure that all positive disclosures on DBS records are discussed with our volunteers and fairly assessed. Schedule 9 (1a) of the Equality Act 2010 applies to this position – (Only Female applicants please)

RSBC are looking for volunteers to help deliver our range of activities, visits and services to children and young people with visual impairments. 

The majority of activities are held at our Life Without Limits Centre by London Bridge. 

Role: Activities Volunteer

Commitment: Currently, sessions are run both during the week (mostly in the afternoon) and at weekends (usually on a Saturday). Activity volunteering is a flexible commitment, and you will be able to sign up for the session you like and when you have time. It really is up to you and your availability. 

Location: Life Without Limits Centre - 10 Lower Thames Street, London, EC3R 6EN 

Availability: RSBC Events · Events Calendar - https://lu.ma/rsbc

Age:  18+ 

Our Mission Statement: 

RSBC believes that every blind young person should have the chance to live life without limits. 

By giving young people the essential skills and confidence to take control of their life, they can unleash their true potential.

Our success depends on our values 

Underpinning all RSBC’s work are values embedded in trust and excellence: 

TRUST: Respect and accountability 

ENERGY: Straight talking and constantly learning 

AMBITION: Confronting reality and driving results 

MOTIVATION: Vision impaired children and young people are our number one priority, and we look for solutions, not problems 

What will I be doing?

Our amazing Activity Volunteers play a key role in supporting blind children and young people to take part in a variety of activities. These range from sports, creative (singing, performing, art), audiobook club and day trips. Our activities are designed for blind young people to meet new friends, gain confidence, learn new skills/sports, and become more independent. The skills you have developed in your career and personal life will be invaluable to our young people. 

Key Tasks and Main Duties 

Face-to-face activities 

• 1:1 sighted guiding from and to public transport locations 

• practical support onsite 

• supporting the sessions 

• facilitate social interaction between the participants 

Who are you?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow RSBC’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for RSBC. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of sight problems. 

What’s in it for me?

RSBC offers the opportunity to gain insight and experience into helping others with sight issues. As part of your volunteering, you will have access to Sighted Guide training, a training session designed to help you understand the issues and complexities of sight problems and give you the ability to help others navigate the world.

RSBC also provides paid expenses for your volunteering experience, you can claim up to £10 per day.

RSBC can also provide references and impact reports from your volunteering if required. 

You will be fully supported in your role by our team of expert and compassionate service delivery team.

Develop or utilise your skills – As a volunteer, you’ll be given plenty of opportunities to develop new skills or use those you already have, which can help to build your CV, boost your employability and give you a sense of satisfaction. 

What's in it for the Community? 

Make a difference to people’s lives

Help in your community

Help deliver creative services to help people with sighted issues feel included in the world around them.

Make a direct and tangible difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted children and young people. 

Safeguarding:

Due to the nature of the role, before you can begin volunteering with RSBC there are some required safeguarding checks which will need to be completed.

All RSBC volunteers undergo an Enhanced DBS check (paid for by RSBC) and must provide two references.

All volunteers will also be booked onto safeguarding training.

RSBC risk assesses all its services and activities.

Next Steps: 

If this sounds like you, please fill out an expression of interest, and one of our volunteer team members will get back to you!

The Manor House Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling (MHCPC) is an established training centre and clinical service. At a time when mental health provisions have been in increased demand, we have experienced exponential growth of our services and wish to develop these further.

We are ambitious to develop and raise our profile and influence to offer mental health support to those that need it most in our borough. The MHCPC are uniquely positioned to offer low-cost open-ended therapy to those who can least afford it.

The MHCPC provide long-term psychodynamic counselling rather than CBT, for those patients in the community for whom the former is more suitable. We provide a service which reduces the impact on NHS mental health provisions and thus supports patients who would otherwise face joining an unrealistically long waiting list for short-term work.

The MHCPC sets high training and clinical standards: our training programme is accredited by both the British Association for Psychotherapy and Counselling (BACP) and the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). 

What are we looking for?

The MHCPC seek to appoint an enthusiastic and engaging Chair, with a passion for mental health and supporting the local community.

The role of the Chair is to provide leadership and direction to the Board of Trustees. The Chair’s aim is to enable the board to fulfil their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation.

The Chair will ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document and any other relevant legislation or regulations and to make sure that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its constitution.

The Chair's role is to work in partnership with the Board of Management, helping them achieve their vision for the organisation.

Personal Qualities

• Demonstrate a strong and visible passion and commitment to the charity, its strategic objectives and cause
• Personal gravitas to lead an organisation
• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in an ambassadorial role
• Demonstrate tact and diplomacy, with the ability to listen and engage effectively
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of the charity
• Ability to foster and promote a collaborative team environment
• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

Experience

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
• Successful track record of achievement through their career
• Experience of charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees
• Experience of external representation, delivering presentations and managing stakeholders
• Significant experience of chairing meetings and events
• Experience of recruiting Trustees

Knowledge and skills

• Broad knowledge and understanding of the charity sector and current issues affecting it
• Strong leadership skills, ability to motivate staff and volunteers and bring people together
• Financial management expertise and a broad understanding of charity finance issues
• Good understanding of charity governance issues

What difference will you make?

The MHCPC has an active Board of Management responsible for the day to day running of the organisation. The Chair's role is to work in partnership with the Board of Management and, with the support of the Board of Trustees, helping them achieve their vision for the organisation.

We are seeking to appoint a dynamic and passionate Chair of the Board of Trustees to provide leadership to the Board and to ensure that the organisation delivers its charitable purpose in close cooperation with the Board of Management.

A Chair is sought who has a strong empathy with the organisation’s objectives and has some understanding of, or interest in, talking therapies and mental health. We are looking to appoint a Chair who can provide strategic insight and expertise to the Board deliberations and support our growth and development at an exciting time for the organisation as we strategically plan how to expand our provision of affordable therapy.