Counselling volunteer roles in enfield, greater london

Our core Befriending Project supports people who are socially isolated in Ealing and Hounslow. They may have a physical or sensory disability, or they may have mild dementia, and are sometimes housebound.

This is an opportunity to become a Befriender.

On successful completion of the training, Befrienders are matched with someone who lives close to them.

They make a weekly 1-2 hour visit to the client's home, where they might stay in and chat over a cup of tea or, where possible, go out for a walk together, visit a cafe or undertake a local activity.

These visits make such a difference for the client, 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.

Contract/Expected Commitment - 3 years fixed-term

About us

SurvivorsUK exists for men and non-binary people who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault or rape, or any survivor who thinks we’re the right service for them.

We support – by providing services such as a helpline, counselling, ISVA and groupwork.
We challenge – by raising public awareness of the issue, and dispelling myths
We build – by creating and facilitating networks for better access to help

We provide emotional support, information and signposting to survivors and anyone worried about someone they know, through a national website and webchat service (open until 8pm most evenings). Last year, 2,600 people contacted us via our webchat services and social media.

In London, we are the only organisation providing specialist services for men and boys, including individual counselling and therapeutic group work. Across London, we provide the capital’s only Independent Sexual Advisor (ISVA) Service that helps men and boys through the criminal justice system.

Purpose of Role

This is an exciting time to be joining SurvivorsUK, as we look to expand our Board with committed professionals bringing their expertise in the following roles:

• Clinical Trustee
• Fundraising Lead Trustee
• Legal Lead Trustee
• Finance Lead Trustee

The organisation is currently reviewing our strategy and our new Trustees will bring complementary skills to help shape our work and plans for the future. SurvivorsUK is a well respected and financially stable charity delivering high quality, in-demand services to our beneficiaries.

We are looking for experienced people with passion, professionalism and commitment to help ensure we continue to deliver high quality services to those we support.

Main responsibilities of all Trustees include:

• To set and maintain the vision, mission and values.
• To ensure that SurvivorsUK pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.
• To maintain proper financial control and ensure that SurvivorsUK applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives.
• To develop strategy and support the operational management of the organisation.
• To ensure that risk is assessed and managed effectively.
• To promote SurvivorsUK and its values, and act in the best interests of the charity.

To see the responsibilities and personal specification for each role, please click the specific job description below for more information:

Clinical Trustee recruitment pack
Fundraising Lead Trustee recruitment pack
Legal Lead Trustee recruitment pack
Finance Lead Trustee recruitment pack

Time Commitment

Usually there are six Board of Trustee meetings and one AGM per year. In addition, Trustees are expected to be part of a Board sub-committee.

Board meetings are generally held in the evening.

Trustees are also expected to attend occasional training and public or private events, e.g. supporter/fundraising events, strategic away days etc.

How to apply

To express an interest in the role and to be considered, please select your preferred application pack and submit the following:

• An up-to-date CV.
• A supporting statement that addresses the person specification in the recruitment pack and outlines your motivation for applying.

At SurvivorsUK, we are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment where everyone is empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.

We especially encourage applications from individuals who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, including men, non-binary, Black, Asian, Mixed Heritage, Trans, disabled people, and those from other marginalised groups. We recognise and value the unique experiences that arise from the intersections of these identities, and we particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience or a strong understanding of the issues faced by our service users.

We also understand the importance of work-life balance and are open to discussing flexible working arrangements, including job share opportunities, to support candidates with caregiving responsibilities or other needs.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or have any accessibility needs, please let us know. We are here to provide any support necessary to ensure the process is inclusive for you.

Are you looking for a fresh challenge that makes a positive difference to the lives of Young People throughout the UK?

At Childline we are actively recruiting new Volunteers. 

What will I be doing?

• Your shift will consist of 3hrs30mns counselling, sandwiched between a 15mns brief before your shift and a 30mns debrief post shift. This is to ensure that you can start and finish your shift with any support you require from your Practitioners.
• On shift you will take contacts from Young People who rely on the service that Childline offers. Childline is not there to solve problems, we are a listening service for Young People and in each contact your role is to engage the Young Person, explore their situation and to support them in deciding their next steps.
• The contacts you would take from Young People can come in 3 ways. Traditional phone call contacts, live chats via instant response typed messaging or less commonly via 'PIBS' which are essentially emails sent by Young People in the knowledge the response will not be 'live' and instant.

What impact will this have?

• Childline is a unique service, valued greatly by the Young People who contact us.
• It provides a safe place for Young People to talk confidentially to our Volunteer Counsellors, an option that many of them do not have elsewhere.
• Young People rely on us being there for them 24/7. In an average month, Childline London takes approx. 1,500 live chats, 900 voice calls and 300 PIBs.
• However, the demand for the service often outstrips the supply as Young People who desperately need our service cannot always get through.
• That is why we are actively recruiting new Volunteers to be able to meet the need of all Young People who are in distress and need the support that Childline provides.

Training

• Childline offers a full 12 week online training programme to new Volunteers. This consists of one 4 hour session per week.
• During the training, you will meet other Volunteers in your cohort and have access to your 2 dedicated Childline Trainers.
• As part of the training, you will also go in person to the London Base for observation and mentored shifts which give you a face to face insight into how the Counselling Room works.
• You will also have access to a dedicated Volunteer Engagement Lead to give you a London Base tour (optional) and generally be on hand to answer any questions or queries you may have - big or small, if they matter to you they matter because you are giving your time to volunteer and Childline wants to offer you every level of support.
• Once you pass through training and become a qualified Childline Volunteer Counsellor, the development opportunities do not stop there. You will have access to a multitude of mandatory and optional training courses that are accredited and 100% free to all Volunteers.

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.

Build a Brotherhood. Shape a Legacy.

We're creating a brand new men's mental health and self improvement charity and we NEED YOU!

Are you ready to be a founding leader of a new movement?

MINDSET is not just another charity; it's a new kind of brotherhood. We're on a mission to empower men's mental health and wellbeing and we need a team of passionate, strategic leaders to guide us from the very beginning.

We are actively recruiting our inaugural Board of Trustees, including a Chair, Treasurer, Company Secretary, and Trustees. This is a unique opportunity to build a charity from the ground up and make a profound, lasting impact on men's lives across the country.

This isn't just a volunteer role. You will be the architects of our mission, setting our strategic direction and ensuring we have the governance and resources to grow. Your leadership will be the foundation of everything we do. You will help us to deliver vital services, including:

• Mental Health Support: Offering a range of services from one-to-one counselling and peer support groups to helplines and crisis support.

• Self-Improvement Programmes: Empowering individuals with practical skills through workshops focused on resilience, stress management, and personal growth.

• Community Engagement: Fostering a sense of belonging through local groups, activities, and outreach programmes that bring men together.

• Youth Services: Providing vital support and education to young men through school-based initiatives and dedicated youth-focused programmes.

We're looking for individuals who believe in our mission and are ready to contribute their expertise, time, and passion to this project. As a founding Trustee, you will directly shape a movement that will change countless lives.

This is more than a board position. This is your chance to build a legacy. This is your opportunity to help us build a brotherhood that changes lives.

Are you ready to lead?

MINDSET Charity

Empowering Men Through Mental Wellbeing and Personal Growth

Volunteer Social Media Content Producer

Location: Haggerston and other SCT sites in East London

Time Commitment: Flexible

Reports to: Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications/Digital Marketing and Communications Manager.

About Us

Based in East London, we have supported people affected by homelessness and addiction for sixty years. We provide a residential addictions treatment programme and counselling, a training and development service, supported housing, and a Housing First service.

Our approach is trauma-informed, holistic and compassionate. We enable people to build strong foundations for the future and discover new skills, improve confidence and self-esteem, and improve physical health and mental well-being. All are vital to establishing a lasting recovery from homelessness and addiction and creating a more fulfilling life.

Our nine charity shops and two social enterprises, put us in the heart of communities across East London.

Role Overview

We are seeking a creative and enthusiastic Volunteer Social Media Content Producer to help us craft engaging, mission-driven content for our social media platforms. This is a great opportunity for someone who loves storytelling, creating digital content and wants to use their skills to support a meaningful cause.

Key Responsibilities

As part of the Fundraising, Marketing and Communications team, key responsibilities include:

· Developing original content for platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

· Creating graphics, short videos, reels, stories, and written posts that align with our brand and messaging.

· Collaborating with teams across SCT, including SCT retail, to plan and execute content calendars and campaigns.

· Repurposing existing materials into social media-friendly formats.

· Staying informed about social media trends and suggesting creative ways to increase engagement.

Skills & Experience

· Experience in content creation for social media (personal, academic, or professional).

· Proficiency with tools like Canva, Meta, CapCut, or similar.

· Strong visual storytelling and writing skills.

· Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

· Passion for social impact and a good understanding of social media platforms.

What We Offer

· A chance to make a real difference through your creative work.

· Opportunities to build your portfolio and gain experience in nonprofit communications.

· A reference or recommendation upon successful completion of the role.

· Flexible hours and a supportive, collaborative team environment.

We are recruiting for a volunteer who would like to play a role in helping others to express themselves through writing. Would you like to support others to use their imagination to portray a message?

Creative writing is a great way to express yourself using your own creativity and imagination through story telling or poetry. It is an opportunity to reflect on your own experiences and put it down on paper. Creative writing has been shown to improve emotional and mental well-being. Through creative writing, we can gain insight into our emotions, develop self-expression and communication skills, cultivate empathy and understanding of others, boost our imagination and creativity.

What you will be doing

• Lead and facilitate a weekly Creative Writing Group, encouraging participants to explore their thoughts and feelings through writing exercises, prompts, and storytelling.
• Guide a subsequent Feelings Forum where participants can share and discuss emotions sparked by the writing session or current experiences in a respectful and supportive atmosphere
• Foster an inclusive, non-judgmental environment where all voices are heard and valued
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to the organisation’s safeguarding and mental health protocols
• Prepare session materials and adapt activities to meet the needs of diverse participants

The skills you need

• Prepare session materials and adapt activities to meet the needs of diverse participants
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with sensitivity to mental health challenges
• Ability to facilitate group discussions and manage diverse emotional responses constructively
• Patience, empathy, and a non-judgmental approach.
• Training or experience in mental health, counselling, social work, or a related field is advantageous but not essential

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.

We are recruiting for a volunteer who would like to play a role in helping others to express themselves through writing. Would you like to support others to use their imagination to portray a message?

Creative writing is a great way to express yourself using your own creativity and imagination through story telling or poetry. It is an opportunity to reflect on your own experiences and put it down on paper. Creative writing has been shown to improve emotional and mental well-being. Through creative writing, we can gain insight into our emotions, develop self-expression and communication skills, cultivate empathy and understanding of others, boost our imagination and creativity.

About the service..

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

• Lead and facilitate a weekly Creative Writing Group, encouraging participants to explore their thoughts and feelings through writing exercises, prompts, and storytelling.
• Guide a subsequent Feelings Forum where participants can share and discuss emotions sparked by the writing session or current experiences in a respectful and supportive atmosphere
• Foster an inclusive, non-judgmental environment where all voices are heard and valued
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to the organisation’s safeguarding and mental health protocols
• Prepare session materials and adapt activities to meet the needs of diverse participants

The skills you need

• Prepare session materials and adapt activities to meet the needs of diverse participants
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with sensitivity to mental health challenges
• Ability to facilitate group discussions and manage diverse emotional responses constructively
• Patience, empathy, and a non-judgmental approach.
• Training or experience in mental health, counselling, social work, or a related field is advantageous but not essential

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.

Family Lives was formed over forty years ago by volunteers with the aim of ensuring that all parents had somewhere to turn before they reach crisis point.

We know that the right support at the right time makes all the difference.

Family Lives provides targeted early intervention and crisis support to families who are struggling.

Purpose of the role:

To be part of a flexible team providing empathic, caring and informed support to families, carers and others who use our services.

Our volunteers take calls from parents and carers on a wide range of subjects, whether that might be issues around separation and divorce, isolation, depression, bullying and abuse, dealing with behavioural problems, etc. You can find out more about our services on our website. We are a national service with home-based call takers county wide and a call centre in Old Hatfield Hertfordshire.

Once trained volunteers sign up for a weekly 4-hour shift comprising 3 hours ‘online’ followed by a debrief session with your supervisor which can last around half to one hour.

We recruit volunteers with a range of backgrounds and experiences though we ask that volunteers have experience of parenting or working with children and young people, are good listeners and have a willingness to learn. Being remote it will be very important that you have a PC/laptop, plug in headset with microphone, good Wi-Fi and a private place to work from home. You need to be a UK resident.

Our volunteers often tell us how rewarding their time with us is.

You'll be part of a compassionate community and feel a real sense of pride for what you do. You'll meet new people, gain valuable experience, and develop your skillset. We're passionate about helping people to reach their full potential, so we'll offer you full training suitable for the role, supervision from a named member of staff, including help setting personal development goals, and opportunities to increase skills and input into practice via regular Practice Development Groups.

Our training programme is excellent and will give you the opportunity to develop the skills needed to offer empathic support and guidance to callers whatever their circumstances; all shifts are overseen by a regular shift supervisor who provides ongoing remote support.

We ask our volunteers to make a commitment of 1 year (with time off for holidays), obviously we understand that circumstances sometimes make that an impossibility but can be helpful to know at the outset that is the general expectation.

We have remote call taker training sessions that run over five sessions and is done remotely connecting you via a Microsoft Teams link. Our next training is starting in September 2025.

Module One = Tues 16th Sept

Module Two = Wed 24th Sept

Module Three = Weds 1st Oct

Module Four = Weds 8th Oct

Module Five = Wed 15th Oct

10am to 2pm

You would need to be able to attend all five sessions and be available on four occasions to listen into calls, this can be organised remotely. If you are unable to attend the training however are interested, please do apply as we run training throughout the year.

Family Lives was formed over forty years ago by volunteers with the aim of ensuring that all parents had somewhere to turn before they reach crisis point.

Remote Family Support Volunteer – Live Chat

We know that the right support at the right time makes all the difference. Family Lives provides targeted early intervention and crisis support to families who are struggling.

Organisational values:

Mission: We build better family lives together.

Vision: Families should have access to active support and understanding. 

Values: Trustworthy, Compassionate and Collaborative

Purpose of the role: To be part of a flexible team providing empathic, caring and informed support to families, carers and others who use our services.

Live chat: is a free confidential service that is accessed via our website. Service users are offered emotional support, information and advice and guidance on a broad range of family issues.

Supervised by: The Shift Supervisor

 Activities: The volunteer will be fully supervised, supported and trained to provide the following activities:

·Provide emotional support to family members via our live chat service

·Use the Family Lives support model and tools to provide an empathic responses

·Ensure that all service users receive a high quality experience

·Sign post users to other agencies for information and additional support

·Complete conversation data records

·Alert the shift supervisor to any difficult situations

General: Volunteers should be willing to:

·Attend the relevant volunteer training

·Maintain confidentiality and adhere to the other policies and procedures of the organisation

·Participate in regular support, supervision meetings and learning sessions as agreed

For home based volunteers only:

·Volunteers will need a Laptop/PC, plug in headset with microphone, fast broadband and a private place to work from home

·Volunteers need to be IT/PC literate and confident troubleshooting should they have technical difficulties

 Time: We would be looking for volunteers to commit to one four-hour shift per week, plus attending training and supervision.

Location: working remotely from home

 You need to be a UK resident.

Supervision and Support:

·Supervision during shifts

·Debrief after every shift

·1 to 1 supervision every 6 months

·Staff available outside of shift within office hours

·Annual review

The Benefits of Volunteering:

·Satisfaction in making a real and lasting difference to families who are struggling

·An opportunity to develop experience for CV and references. Family Lives is committed to helping volunteers develop their own learning and development, gaining new skills, knowledge or work experience

·Being part of a team of Family Lives volunteers and staff

·Personal development

·Opportunities to meet and interact with a wide range of people

·Out of pocket expenses reimbursed to a maximum of £10 per session if working from a centre

·Flexible hours

Volunteer Person Specification. We are looking for individuals who:

·Have experience of parenting/being in a parenting role or demonstrable experience of working with parents or children e.g. in their work, previous volunteering or a previous role

·Have an ability to respond empathically to emotional content

·Good written and verbal communication

·Have good keyboard skills and IT skills, with a minimum of 45 wpm

·Can demonstrate a willingness to question their own attitudes e.g. toward different forms of parenting

·Have a fluent, descriptive and expressive use of English

·Can remain open minded and non-judgemental

·Willing to commit to work within Family Lives’ policies, in particular our Confidentiality Policy and Risk of Harm Procedures

·Willing to commit to attending regular supervision and support sessions

·Willing to work as part of a team

·Willing to commit to a mutually agreed period or ideally a 12 months commitment to the organisation.

Typing Task Prior to Application for Live Chat

Prior to you submitting your application for a Live Chat Volunteer, we will require you to do a speed test, we ask for a minimum speed of 45 words per minute. 

Please take a screen shot and send it across with your application

You can have up to 3 attempts and decide which result you would like to forward as part of your application

Typing task

Go to the website typingtest

You are required to take the one minute typing test recording all of the results (speed, number of errors and adjusted speed).

We have remote voluntary call taker training groups the dates are below are you would need to be able to attend all 5 Modules from the training group.

Our next training groups are:

Tues 16th Sept = Please note different day

Wed 24th Sept

Weds 1st Oct

Weds 8th Oct

Wed 15th Oct 

 10am - 2pm 

Please note that all roles offered are subject to a satisfactory DBS being obtained, you will receive details of documentation required prior to your training and this must all be in no later than the second session of your training.

About It’s Time:

It’s Time is a charity created by and for young adults who have experienced the death of a parent. Founded by people who know this grief first-hand, the charity ensures no one aged 18–35 has to navigate such loss alone. Through peer-led support, events, free group therapy, and tailored resources, It’s Time offers connection and understanding during an often isolating time. The charity also partners with universities, workplaces, and families to promote better bereavement support - recognising that grief doesn’t follow a timeline, and the help offered to young adults shouldn’t either.

The charity was founded in 2021 and we now run local peer support groups throughout England, have a year long waiting list for our group therapy and supports around 500 people in the online community.  We recognise that as we grow our needs and those of our community are changing and are looking for someone skilled in charity growth to steer us into the next phase of our development.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary role with no financial remuneration. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Location: Remote, with one in-person strategy day per year (usually on a Saturday in London).

Time Commitment:

• 4 board meetings annually (Tuesday evenings via Zoom)

• 1 annual in-person strategy day (usually a Saturday in London)

• Participation in any relevant sub-groups

• Ad hoc involvement in events, meetings, or training as needed

Reporting to: Chair and the Board of Trustees

Role Overview

The Vice Chair supports the Chair and Trustee Board in ensuring the effective governance and strategic direction of the charity. This includes providing inclusive leadership, promoting accountability, and upholding the mission and values of the organisation.

The Vice Chair will work closely with the Chair and the senior staff team to help the Board function effectively, and may represent the charity externally when needed.

Principal Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure the charity delivers maximum impact for its beneficiaries

• Uphold the Board’s responsibilities in effective governance

• Support the development and delivery of strategic direction

• Monitor major risks and opportunities, ensuring systems are in place to manage them

• Safeguard the financial health and accountability of the charity

Governance

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure governance arrangements are fit for purpose and effective

• Support trustee development and capability building

• Encourage positive change and help resolve conflicts

• Ensure a diverse and skilled Trustee Board

• Operate within agreed charity policies

External Relations

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Represent the charity at external functions, meetings, and events

• Act as an ambassador for the cause

• Support the management of external relationships and stakeholder engagement

Efficiency and Effectiveness

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure meetings are well-structured, objective, and lead to effective decision-making

• Maintain strong engagement and collective ownership among Trustees

• Foster constructive relationships within the Board

• Support the senior staff in preparing meaningful agendas and ensuring implementation of decisions

Relationship with Senior Staff

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Build and maintain an open, constructive relationship with senior staff

• Support accountability of senior staff for strategic objectives

• Provide guidance and act as a sounding board while respecting staff autonomy

• Offer support on organisational matters as appropriate

• Contribute to the annual appraisal of senior staff if requested

Person Specification

Personal Qualities

• Strong commitment to the charity’s mission and strategy

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills

• Tact, diplomacy, and the ability to engage and listen

• Collaborative and team-oriented approach

• Ability to dedicate time to the role, including occasional out-of-hours events

Experience

• Experience in strategic leadership roles

• Track record of achievement in professional or voluntary contexts

• Experience in business/community growth

• Experience representing an organisation externally

• Familiarity with chairing or co-chairing meetings is desirable

Knowledge and Skills

• Understanding of the Civil Society sector and key current issues

• Leadership and motivational skills

• Understanding of charity finance and governance

Term of Appointment
The Vice Chair will serve a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term.

Volunteer Opportunities with Unique Support Hub: Asylum Support Team – Croydon & Crystal Palace Areas

Are you passionate about social justice, community engagement, and making a lasting difference in the lives of migrants and those seeking sanctuary?
We are seeking dedicated, compassionate, and experienced volunteers to join our Asylum Support Team in Croydon and Crystal Palace.

As part of this vital team, you will contribute directly to enhancing the wellbeing and experience of asylum seekers living in the community and those in Home Office accommodations. Your support will play a critical role in helping individuals navigate the complexities of the asylum process and build connections within their new communities.

Volunteer Roles Available

We are looking for individuals to take on a variety of essential roles, including:

• Community Activities Coordinator
  Organise and facilitate inclusive, engaging activities both within the reception centres and in the wider community to foster wellbeing, integration, and resilience.
• Advice & Advocacy Support Volunteer
  Provide one-to-one guidance on asylum procedures, support clients in understanding their rights and entitlements, and escalate cases where needed in collaboration with Migrant Help and AASC providers.
• Wraparound Services & Signposting Volunteer
  Assist asylum seekers in accessing crucial wraparound services including housing support, digital inclusion, mental health, education, and employment advice. 
  Provide effective referrals to legal aid solicitors and community organisations.

What We Offer Our Volunteers

• A volunteer allowance per visit
• Paid training sessions to equip you with the necessary skills
• DBS checks fully funded
• Continuous support and professional development
• The opportunity to work within a passionate team making meaningful impact in people’s lives

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals with:

• Lived or professional experience in migration, advocacy, or community work
• Strong organisational and interpersonal skills
• A deep sense of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to social equity
• Availability for regular visits and engagements in Croydon and/or Crystal Palace

How to Apply

Please apply by submitting your CV and a brief personal statement by EMAIL  outlining your motivation and any relevant experience. Indicate clearly which role(s) you are most interested in.

Application Deadline: Rolling recruitment until positions are filled. Early application is encouraged.

About It’s Time:

It’s Time is a charity created by and for young adults who have experienced the death of a parent. Founded by people who know this grief first-hand, the charity ensures no one aged 18–35 has to navigate such loss alone. Through peer-led support, events, free group therapy, and tailored resources, It’s Time offers connection and understanding during an often isolating time. The charity also partners with universities, workplaces, and families to promote better bereavement support - recognising that grief doesn’t follow a timeline, and the help offered to young adults shouldn’t either.

The charity was founded in 2021 and we now run local peer support groups throughout England, have a year long waiting list for our group therapy and supports around 500 people in the online community.  We recognise that as we grow our needs and those of our community are changing and are looking for someone skilled in charity growth to steer us into the next phase of our development.

About the Role
We are seeking a dedicated, strategic, and inspiring leader to join us as Chair of the Board of Trustees. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of a growing charity, providing governance, leadership, and support to a committed Board and passionate staff team.

As Chair, you will play a vital role in steering the organisation toward maximum impact for our beneficiaries, holding the Board and senior leadership to account while acting as an ambassador and public face of the charity.

Time Commitment:

• 4 board meetings annually (Tuesday evenings via Zoom)

• 1 annual in-person strategy day (usually a Saturday in London)

• Participation in any relevant sub-groups

• Ad hoc involvement in events, meetings, or training as needed

Remuneration:
This is a voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Board in providing clear strategic direction and strong governance

• Ensure the charity meets its objectives, mission, and vision

• Support and hold the senior leadership team to account

• Represent the charity externally, acting as a spokesperson and ambassador

• Chair Board meetings, enabling effective and inclusive decision-making

• Build strong relationships with trustees, staff, and stakeholders

• Oversee financial health, governance standards, and risk management

What We're Looking For:

Personal Qualities

• A visible passion and commitment to the charity’s cause

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Gravitas to lead a growing organisation

• Diplomatic, collaborative, and team-oriented

Experience

• Senior strategic leadership experience

• Experience in growing a small charity

• Strong track record in your professional field

• Experience working with or on a Board of Trustees

• Skilled in stakeholder management and public speaking

• Confident chairing meetings and facilitating group discussions

Knowledge & Skills

• Understanding of the charity and civil society sectors

• Strong governance and financial oversight capabilities

• Proven ability to build and lead effective teams

Term:
The Chair will serve a three-year term, with eligibility for reappointment for one additional term.

Respond is seeking a qualified accountant to join the Board of Trustees as honorary Treasurer.

About the Respond Treasurer role

This is an exciting opportunity to volunteer in a vital governance role at Respond: the Treasurer maintains an overview of the charity’s financial affairs, ensuring effective and appropriate financial measures, controls and procedures are in place.

As a member of the Board of Trustees, the Treasurer also supports good governance, helping set the strategic direction of the charity for the years to come.

The role would suit a qualified accountant with some knowledge of charity accounting and the ability to communicate financial information to the wider board in a clear and accessible way. 

With a passionate Board of Trustees and a committed staff team, you’ll join an organisation focused on making a real difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and autistic people who have experienced abuse, violence or trauma.

Please note this is a voluntary role. Any expenses incurred while carrying out the duties of the role will be reimbursed.

About Respond

Respond is a national charity supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people who have experienced abuse, violence or trauma. Respond offers psychotherapy and advocacy support and provides specialist trauma informed training for services.

Through specialist advocacy and therapeutic support, we support people to navigate complex systems such as criminal justice, social services and housing, and to cope with the impact of trauma, build healthy relationships and move forward with their lives.

If you are a qualified accountant that shared our passion for supporting survivors, we would love to hear from you.