Health and wellbeing volunteer volunteer roles

Volunteer Role: Trusts and Foundations

We were set up to transform the former Edward Hain hospital, in St Ives, Cornwall, into a community centre for health and wellbeing. The hospital was founded in 1920, with funds from the Cornish Hain Steamship Company. When it closed n 2021, our community, led by the hospital’s League of Friends, came together to save the building for the town. Now it brings together much needed health and wellbeing services, along with social, community and welfare support, all under one roof.

About the role

We are looking for volunteers to help us raise funds from Trusts and Foundations. Grants, such the one we secured from National Lottery, already help keep us open all year. Although previous experience in grant writing would be welcomed, it is absolutely not required. More important are your enthusiasm and desire to help local people. ideally, you will be able to volunteer at least one or two days a month on a regular basis and preferably have access to a computer.

What’s involved?

· Drafting and submitting funding applications with help and support from our team.

· Working with other volunteers and staff to identify new funding opportunities.

· Researching grant-making bodies, trusts, and foundations that can fund the Centre.

The role will suit you if you

· Are comfortable with a computer.

· Have good written communication skills.

· Want to help local residents thrive.

· Can pay attention to detail and follow funder guidelines.

We will support you with

· An induction to volunteering for Edward Hain

· Training and briefings on how trusts and foundations fundraising.

· Coaching on how to draft and submit applications, supported with tools and templates.

• Occasional meetings at the Centre with other volunteers and staff.

We are looking for up to five regular volunteers. There is also an opportunity for significant coaching and development for those interested in pursuing jobs in this field in the longer term and wanting to use this role to develop the necessary skills. For more information contact:

Claire Jefferies Community Hub Officer

Project overview: 

Alfriston Outreach Service is dedicated to helping older and vulnerable people in Kingston. We provide services such as Hot Lunch delivery, Shopping, and Laundry delivered into people’s homes, with our aim to support older people to remain independent in their own homes. 

About us:

Mind in Kingston supports people with mental health issues and raises awareness within Kingston and surrounding areas. We provide training, supervision, and opportunities for career development. 

Volunteers are extremely valued within our team and a vital part of our service delivery. We welcome applications from people from all walks of life, including those who may have personal or professional experience of mental health. While lived experience can bring valuable perspective, it is not a requirement for volunteering with us. Our focus is on providing volunteers with the training, guidance and supervision they need to feel confident in their roles and to develop their skills. Volunteers are supported to succeed and offered opportunities to connect with trustees, staff and other volunteers both professionally and socially. Above all, we value the contribution volunteers make to our community and are committed to recognising their achievements. 

Main purpose of the role: 

• Support and assist the cook in the kitchen. 

• Assisting with food preparation. 

• Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the kitchen. 

Tasks will include: 

• Washing pots, pans, and utensils. 

• Cleaning and sanitising food preparation areas, equipment and surfaces. 

• Adhering to Food Safety Agency standards. 

• Washing, peeling, cutting, and chopping vegetables and other ingredients. 

• Assisting with organisation of food storage. 

• Maintain regular contact with the supervisor. 

• Attend meetings and supervision sessions. 

What you will receive in return: 

• Training in food safety and hygiene.

• Training for any other skills as identified by yourself and your supervisor. 

• Regular check-in with your supervisor, reflective supervision, and managerial support. 

• An opportunity to learn new skills and develop existing ones while being a part of a supportive team at Mind in Kingston. 

• Reimbursement of reasonable expenses. 

• Professional references upon completion. 

• *Alfriston volunteers only: access to a discounted lunch (£5 per lunch, subject to availability). A minimum of 24 hours’ notice must be given. 

What we expect from you: 

• Commitment for at least six months. 

• Completion of required training. 

• Adherence to Mind in Kingston’s policies (e.g., confidentiality, safeguarding). 

• Proactive engagement with your supervisor for support. 

Application Process: 

• Two recent references are required. 

• An enhanced DBS check is necessary. 

We ask volunteers for two references, one of which must come from someone who has supervised you recently in your work or studies, such as a current or previous employer or a tutor. You will also need to undergo an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, as you will be working with vulnerable adults.

Role Title: Advice and Information & Signposting Volunteer 

Weekly Hours: Minimum 4 hours per week

Expenses: Expenses are compensated where applicable such as travel 

Commitment: At least 6 months 

Responsible to: The Service Navigation Lead

Project overview: 

The Information, Advice & Guidance (A&G) Service sits within our Mental Health Support Services (MHSS) team. It provides residents with accurate information, advice and signposting, helping people to find the right support, at the right time, while ensuring safe and consistent service delivery. 

This is a non-crisis service. Volunteers are not expected to provide counselling, befriending, or personal opinions. Instead, volunteers help callers by listening empathically, providing factual information from approved sources, and signposting to the most appropriate services under the guidance and supervision of the Referral & Access Lead (RAL). 

Mind in Kingston is a local charity supporting people with mental health issues and campaigning to raise awareness of mental health in Kingston and surrounding areas. We are affiliated with National Mind but operate independently across the Borough of Kingston upon Thames. 

Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the accessibility and effectiveness of this service. We welcome volunteers from all walks of life — whether or not you have lived experience of mental health issues. You will receive structured training, ongoing supervision, and be part of a supportive and inclusive team that values your time and contribution. 

Main purpose of the role: 

• To provide confidential, accurate, and consistent information and signposting to people contacting Mind in Kingston’s A&G service by phone, email, or web enquiry. 

• To offer empathic listening and practical information within defined role boundaries. 

• To help individuals access the right service or source of support, internally within Mind in Kingston or externally through local and national organisations. 

• To ensure all enquiries are recorded accurately using the web-based enquiry form and handled in line with data protection and safeguarding policies. 

• To escalate all risk or safeguarding concerns immediately to the Referral & Access Lead. 

Tasks will include: 

• Answering incoming telephone calls, emails, and online enquiries during allocated shifts. 

• Providing information and signposting based on verified sources such as Mind in Kingston’s signposting directory and local service guides. 

• Logging all enquiries accurately using the online enquiry form. 

• Conducting call backs as directed by the Referral & Access Lead. 

• Escalating any safeguarding, crisis, or risk concerns immediately following Mind in Kingston’s escalation protocols. 

• Researching and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of local and national services. 

• Participating in regular supervision, debriefs, and team meetings. 

• Maintaining confidentiality, professionalism, and clear boundaries at all times. 

Boundaries and Role Parameters 

To ensure safe and high-quality service delivery, volunteers must: 

• Not provide counselling, therapy, or befriending. 

• Not give personal opinions or advice — all responses should be factual and guided by verified resources. 

• Not manage crisis situations independently any indication of risk or crisis must be escalated to the Referral & Access Lead immediately. 

• Work only within designated service hours and communication channels. 

• Follow data protection and confidentiality policies at all times. 

This ensures volunteers are supported and protected, and that all service users receive safe, accurate, and appropriate information. 

What you will receive in return: 

• Training in skills that will include mental health awareness and boundaries. 

• Training in adult safeguarding and local procedures. 

• Training for any other skills as identified by yourself and your supervisor. 

• Regular check-in with your supervisor, reflective supervision, and managerial support. 

• An opportunity to learn new skills and develop existing ones while being a part of a supportive team at Mind in Kingston. 

• Reimbursement of reasonable expenses. 

• Professional references upon completion. 

What we expect from you: 

• Commitment to a minimum of 6 months volunteering. 

• Completion of all required training prior to taking calls or enquiries. 

• Adherence to Mind in Kingston’s policies, including: 

• Confidentiality and data protection 

• Safeguarding 

• Health and safety 

• Equal opportunities 

• A calm, empathetic, and non-judgemental approach to all service users. 

• The ability to communicate clearly and sensitively with people who may be experiencing distress. 

• Willingness to engage with supervision and feedback. 

• Safe handling and return of any equipment issued. 

• If volunteering from home, ensuring you have a confidential and private space from which to work. 

Application Process: 

• Two references (one from a professional contact) are required. 

• An enhanced DBS check is necessary. 

• An Interview

• Completion of mandatory Onboarding, Induction and training process

We ask volunteers for two references, one of which must come from a professional connection such as a current or previous employer or a tutor. You will also need to undergo an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, as you will be working with vulnerable adults.

Would you like to become an Ambassador for knus? We've introduced our new arm-chairing volunteer position.

If you're interested arm-chair volunteering (our most flexible, low commitment role) and applying to volunteer at knus, simply read through the information on this page and apply.

• Are you over 18 and living in the UK? You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.
• Do you have a mobile phone or laptop? You can do this role whether you are, whether it be on a sofa or on a plane.
• How much time can you give? As much as you want to do. We are flexible and like to work around you.
• Do you like to learn? We provide training for all volunteers that join us. You'll have access to our courses to help you advance your knowledge and certificates to add to your CV.

How does it work?

In 2025 we launched our arm chair volunteering initiative to help us spread the word about our service and to give people the opportunity to take part in surveys and projects to help us deliver the best mental health support to the UK public.

We'd like to embrace what you love doing, whether that be sharing on socials, proof reading, surveys, sharing experiences or getting involved in our fabulous projects.

Important information:

In order to volunteer for knus as an ambassador, you will need to complete a brief application form and a ID check. A DBS is not required for this role, however, if you wish to progress to another role you may need a disclosure. We do this to ensure of service remains a safe place to volunteer for all. Please do not worry about this, we will help you as much as we can.

Training is provided by us and our training partners. You will be required to attend this training using online conferencing software such as zoom or teams.

Become a Family Mentor — Help Families Thrive in Southend-on-Sea

Would you like to make a lasting difference in your community? Are you a good listener with a heart for helping families facing real challenges? If so, the Volunteers Supporting Families – Family Mentor programme in Southend-on-Sea needs you.

What you’ll be doing

• Supporting families with children who are at risk of neglect or harm, or families with existing social care involvement. 
• Meeting regularly (once a week for approximately 1 hour) in the family home over a minimum six-month period. 
• Offering consistent emotional and practical support: listening, guiding, helping parents build confidence and parenting skills, reducing isolation, navigating day-to-day challenges.
• Working alongside project staff who will match you with a family, train you, and support you throughout. 

Who we’re looking for

You don’t need formal experience working with families, just the right qualities and commitment:

• 18 years old or above, living in Southend-on-Sea or nearby.
• Able to commit to weekly visits for at least six months.
• Willing to complete necessary checks (DBS/criminal record), and provide references.
• Caring, patient, reliable: a good listener who can offer non-judgemental support, even when progress is slow. 
• Someone with an interest in helping both children and parents. Personal life experience can be helpful. 

What you’ll get

Volunteering is giving—but it’s also growing. As a Family Mentor, you’ll receive:

• Full training & ongoing support from experienced project staff.
• Opportunities to develop new skills and gain real experience working with families. 
• The chance to make a direct, positive impact by helping to keep families together and preventing children entering care. 
• Reimbursement for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including travel. 
• A strong reference for future work or volunteering opportunities. 

Why it matters

Families in Southend-on-Sea are facing pressures such as domestic violence, mental health challenges, substance misuse, and social isolation. By acting as a steady support person, you’ll be part of helping to turn things around—reducing the load on social care, improving life outcomes for children, and offering hope to parents

Full Training is provided - successful applicants will be required to attend training on the 4th & 5th February 2025

Inspiring, supportive, and committed - just a few of the words we’d use to describe our volunteers. 

At Rethink Mental Illness, volunteers are at the heart of what we do. They play a vital role in supporting our services and making a real difference in people’s lives. If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can have a positive impact while developing your own skills and experience, we’d love you to join us. 

About the role

Do you enjoy gardening, being outdoors, and working with others to create a friendly and welcoming space? We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help us nurture and develop the gardens at The Croft in Derbyshire.

As a Volunteer Gardener, you’ll:

• Care for and maintain the gardens at the Croft
• Support the development of the gardens as a wellbeing space for the community
• Volunteer alongside staff and group members to grow and enhance the space
• Share your ideas for the garden’s development and future activities
• Help promote the gardens and showcase the work we do

Tools, full training, and regular supervision will be provided, so you’ll feel confident and supported in your role.

About the service

The Derbyshire Recovery Peer Support Service (DRPSS) helps people improve and maintain their mental health and wellbeing, and reconnect with their local community. We offer one-to-one support, telephone support, and community groups to anyone over 18 in Derbyshire who is experiencing mental ill health.

The gardens at the Croft are a key part of this, providing a safe and welcoming space where people can come together, connect, and enjoy the benefits of nature.

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• Good gardening knowledge and enthusiasm for creating a wellbeing space
• Understanding of mental health support
• Awareness of safeguarding and risk management
• Organisational skills and the ability to work well in a team
• A non-judgmental, supportive approach when working with others

It’s not essential, but you may also bring:

• Lived experience of mental ill health
• Knowledge of local services

Who are we? 

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”     

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.     

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion   

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.   

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation   

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.   

We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. 

Purpose of the Role

This volunteer role is a key part of the HFEH Mind team delivering a range of services across Hammersmith and Fulham, Ealing and Hounslow. We support clients with mental health with both clinical and non-clinical interventions.

The purpose of the current role is to assist with the planning and delivery of our Adult Co-production services. This includes the Adult Co-production Group, The Shakti Project (wellbeing service for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals) and a new Young Adult Co-Production group working with 18–25-year-olds.

Main Responsibilities

This role involves working closely with service managers and the co-production coordinator to discover new organisations and community events to reach out to establish a presence and promote our co-production services, as well as work in partnership with others to improve our services.

This would include admin tasks such as drafting emails to send to our service users and partners, establishing connections with members of the community and service providers, identifying appropriate locations to distribute posters and promote the service, assisting with the creation of digital content promoting the service both digitally and in-person, helping with the planning and delivery of enrichment trips and outings, co-facilitating online groups (where applicable).

Tasks

· Attending online meetings for the Adult Co-Production Group and/or the Shakti Project

· Promoting the service to members of the South Asian and BAME community (Shakti Project) and 18–25-year-olds (Young Adult Co-Production Group)

· Assisting with admin tasks e.g. drafting up emails to send to service users, updating our co-production newsletters, emailing charity partners and public organisations.

· Assisting with in-person events such as Health Fairs, Career/Volunteer days, cultural events

General Responsibilities

• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the level of the role.

• Embrace diversity and share in our commitment to equality of opportunity and to eliminating discrimination.

• Share our commitment to safeguarding adults and children at risk of harm. Undertaking safeguarding training.

• Use the charity’s resources efficiently and effectively to ensure that our financial resources are demonstrably used for the benefit of our service users.

• Ensure that information is obtained, used and stored in accordance with our Data Protection and Confidentiality policy.

Type of person we are looking for:

Essential

· Good listener with strong communication skills

· Highly reliable and good time management skills

· Open-minded and non-judgmental approach to having conversations around mental health

· Good knowledge of mental health difficulties and mental health awareness

· Understanding the needs and challenges of the South Asian and BAME community

Desirable

· Good knowledge of services, charities and organisations in Hammersmith, Fulham, Ealing and Hounslow

· Previous experience with workshop or advisory group facilitation

· Experience working with young adults aged 18-25 in a variety of settings e.g. careers service, education, inpatient or outpatient mental health services.

Time commitment and expenses:

· 6 hours per week (including a 1-hour lunch break), during our core hours of 10AM – 4 PM.

· We request a minimum commitment of 3 months of volunteering after the completion of your induction.   

· We request a minimum commitment of 6 months of volunteering before reference request.

· We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role. 

HFEH Mind value equal opportunities; and are proud to foster a workforce of volunteers and employees that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons from all backgrounds.

HFEH Mind are committed to creating and fostering a culture that promotes safeguarding and the welfare of all children and adults at risk. Our safer recruitment practices support this by ensuring that there is a consistent and thorough process of obtaining, collating, analysing and evaluating information from and about candidates to ensure that all persons appointed are suitable to work with children and vulnerable adults.

Post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

***Please note that this is an opportunity based in Nottingham (shire) in the United Kingdom and we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***

Age UK Notts are seeking individuals who would like to be considered as a volunteer for our Companion Service.

Volunteers will be supporting people in their own homes and in the community within Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and ideally, we ask all applicants to provide a minimum of 1 hour volunteering a week.

The companion service volunteer can choose to be:                                                           

• A companion within the person’s home

• A companion outside the person’s home

Examples of the type of support the service offers include:

• Supporting an older person/s hobbies and interests or simply chatting with them in their own home on a regular basis.

• Supporting with digital access & building confidence skills & motivation to access the opportunities of the internet.

• Supporting the person outside of their home e.g., by accompanying them on a walk, to the shops, to a café, garden centre, theatre or cinema or other social activities / community groups. 

• Where appropriate, supporting the older person to access other services through information and signposting or referring to the Companion Service Coordinator for support.

We are looking for the following skills/interests:

• Individuals with a genuine interest in the wellbeing of older people who are committed to volunteering on a regular basis.

• Commitment to complete our Volunteer Report Form accurately and regularly. 

• Ability to travel for visits in the local community either by car or public transport for those volunteers who choose to participate in this type of activity.

• Digital literacy for those volunteers who choose to participate in this type of activity.

We are looking for volunteers with good daytime availability in specific areas of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Please contact the volunteering team for further information on where specifically in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

This flexible home volunteering role is worthwhile and rewarding. Make a real difference writing letters. As a Volunteer Penpal Writer you’ll be a key member of the Letterbox Team. Your letters will cheer someone up and establish a trusting, supportive relationship with a client who might be lonely or socially isolated.

What tasks can this role include (some or all of the following):

• Writing letters to clients
• Building trust and companionship with a client through correspondence. Omega befriends a variety of people including: caregivers, the lonely, isolated or people with ill-health.
• Liaising with the Letterbox Team by email or post.
• Respecting service standards, appropriate boundaries and recognising the policies and procedures that are necessary when befriending adults at risk.
• Making suggestions to help us improve the service we provide to clients and Volunteer Pen pal Writers.

This role could be for you, if you:

• Enjoy writing and receiving letters
• Are enthusiastic and self-motivated
• Associate strongly with Omega’s values and strategy
• Have knowledge or understanding about a variety of client issues including caring, feeling isolated and lonely and its impact on people and society
• Have satisfactory written and inter-personal communication skills
• Recognise the importance of confidentiality and can show this in practice
• Are committed to inclusion, treating people with dignity and respect

What support and training will be provided?

• Feedback from clients and colleagues
• Regular and ongoing support from Letterbox Team Leader
• Answering questions
• Stationary and pre-paid envelopes can be provided making the service free.
• Opportunity for peer support events and invitation to Omega events
• Reward system and opportunity for volunteer of the month rewards

What are the benefits for you?

• Knowing you are making a difference to someone’s life by doing something you enjoy
• Joining the Omega Team, who are taking action against loneliness and isolation as well as helping people in crisis
• An opportunity to enhance your CV or learn new skills
• An opportunity to engage with your community

Location of the role:

• Mainly your home

When are you needed?

• At a time to suit you

Create Hope is a therapeutic service that provides emotional and mental health support to children, young people, and families. Our goal is to offer a safe space where individuals can explore their feelings, build resilience, and self-awareness through creative and relational approaches.

Our therapeutic services include:
● Play & Creative Therapy
● Systemic Family Therapy
● Person-Centred or Integrative Adult Counselling
● NVR Therapy
● Couples Therapy
● Workshops for parents/carers

As a Volunteer Parent/Carer Support, you contribute to this mission by offering a listening ear and compassionate presence in the waiting room.

Your Role as Volunteer Parent/Carer Support

Responsibilities:
● Greet parents/carers on arrival and help them feel comfortable in the waiting area
● Offer informal conversation and a compassionate listening ear
● Maintain confidentiality and appropriate boundaries at all times
● Signpost parents to Create Hope resources or staff when appropriate
● Help create a calm and welcoming atmosphere in the waiting space

Time Commitment:
We ask that volunteers commit to a regular weekly or fortnightly slot during therapy session times (usually weekday afternoons/evenings).

Location:
At the Create Hope centre in Bracknell.

Support & Training

We want to ensure you feel equipped and supported in your role. As a Parent/Carer Support Volunteer, you will have access to:
● Induction and training in listening skills and safe boundaries
● Safeguarding training (minimum Level 1)
● Ongoing supervision and support from the Create Hope team
● Being part of a supportive and welcoming volunteer community

You will not be expected to provide counselling – your role is to listen and be present. If a parent requires further support, you can signpost them to Create Hope staff.

All volunteers must adhere to Create Hope’s Safeguarding and confidentiality policies.

About

blink blink mental health is a registered charity in England and Wales, and we are on a mission to help hundreds of thousands more people get timely, appropriate, and personalised mental health support.

We do this by:

• increasing access to support, making sure financial barriers aren’t a limitation

• providing personalised support when it’s needed, not limited by waiting lists

• normalising talking about mental health, reducing the stigma and taboo

• creating supportive and inclusive spaces at events and festivals across the UK, where people can be heard, connect with others, and reconnect with themselves.

blink is a small volunteer-powered organisation with three trustees, around 150 volunteers, and no paid staff. We’re growing, both in reach and in ambition, and we’re looking to expand our Trustee board to help guide us through this next chapter.

Our services at UK festivals:

Free, instant-access talking therapy with a fully-qualified therapist Up to 50-minutes with an experienced therapist who can support and guide people in the ways that feel most useful to them - like signposting, giving advice or simply offering an open, non-judgemental space to talk.

A calm, inclusive space to chill out and chat openly Whether festival-goers want a quiet space to switch off and nap, a place to connect with others, to explore the benefits of therapy or share the emotional weight they’re carrying, or just a safe-haven for a while – our bell tents are ready. Lined with comfortable bean bags and cosy blankets, we create the perfect environment to relax in.

Mindfulness activities facilitated by volunteers Puzzles and colouring books are available to unwind from the busy-ness outside. Our Wellbeing Support Volunteers are always available to have conversations, book therapy sessions, and signpost those who may be struggling or need some extra support.

Long term blink aims

Our work at festivals is hugely successful, and we are changing hundreds of lives a year. In the future, we hope to build on this experience and success by developing a programme of pop-up mental health workshops, events and free personalised therapy in other settings across the country.

Time Commitment

• Approx 5-10 hours per month. A greater time commitment may be required in the initial months to enable a smooth induction period

• Approx. 6–8 Board meetings per year

• Quarterly meetings with the Clinical Lead

• Additional time for reading and preparation

• Occasional involvement in urgent safeguarding matters or training.

• Optional opportunity to volunteer at festivals with blink, if that’s of interest Optional additional involvement blink is a small but growing mental health charity with huge ambition.

As we continue to develop, there is an opportunity for trustees to take a more ‘hands-on role’, if this is of interest. This could include things like, supporting volunteer recruitment, delivering training, helping with specific projects, or joining us at festivals. That said, this level of involvement is entirely optional. We know everyone’s capacity is different, and we want trustees to contribute in ways that feel sustainable and enjoyable for them.

Lead Safeguarding Trustee Purpose of the Role

The Lead Safeguarding Trustee plays a pivotal role in ensuring that blink upholds the highest standards of safeguarding for everyone it works with, including volunteers and members of the public. This trustee leads the Board's oversight of safeguarding policies, practices, and culture, ensuring that safeguarding remains a priority for the charity.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight: Champion safeguarding in all blink’s activities, ensuring the charity maintains a proactive and preventative approach to safeguarding risks. Advise the Board on safeguarding trends, risks, and implications for strategic decision making.

 • Governance & Compliance: Ensure that blink complies with all relevant legislation, statutory guidance, and best practice in safeguarding. Work closely with other trustees and key volunteers to ensure safeguarding governance arrangements are robust and effective.

• Culture & Accountability: Champion a positive culture of safety, wellbeing and inclusion, where transparency, learning, and continuous improvement in safeguarding practice is encouraged. Support the blink team to ensure safeguarding is embedded in service delivery, policy, recruitment, and training.

• Risk & Incident Management: Work closely with key volunteers to provide appropriate support, challenge and scrutiny regarding how safeguarding concerns or incidents are reported, escalated, and managed. Monitor safeguarding reports and trends, ensuring that systemic risks are identified and mitigated.

• Support & Collaboration: Act as a point of contact for other trustees on safeguarding matters. Engage with external stakeholders, regulators, or legal advisors when appropriate to ensure the charity is responding appropriately to safeguarding challenges. Person Specification This is blink’s ‘wish list’, but we don’t expect you to tick every single box in order to apply. We welcome applicants with diverse lived and learned experiences and are particularly keen to hear from individuals from marginalised and minoritised communities.

Experience:

• Direct professional senior-level experience of safeguarding for example in a charity, social care, health, education, youth work, or a related field.

• Prior experience as a trustee or non-executive board member desirable. Knowledge and understanding:
• Understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and reputational impact for safeguarding within a charity. • Commitment to blink’s vision, mission and values.

• Demonstrable commitment to social justice, anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion.

 Skills:

• Able to distil complex information and bring a pragmatic approach to its application.

• Ability to engage with complex or sensitive safeguarding issues in a supportive and trauma-informed way.

• A collaborative, calm, and reflective approach to team working, with the ability to inspire trust and confidence quickly. • Empowering and coaching interpersonal style to support & develop the blink team.

• A proactive approach to CPD.

What difference will you make?

• Play a key role in ensuring blink is protecting everyone who comes into contact with the charity

• Support and influence the charity to thrive, building our reputation and impact.

• Have a direct positive impact on thousands of people’s lives

What's in it for you?

You will have the opportunity to:

• Be part of a friendly, passionate and values-driven team

• Shape and improve safeguarding practice in a grassroots mental health charity
• Guide and lead blink’s development at a time of exciting growth

• Deepen your skills and experience by applying this to a different sector and/or organisation

• Develop leadership skills in supporting and empowering both volunteers and wider trustees in a key role on the board

• Represent blink at charity sector events

• Benefit from a structured induction and ongoing support, training and networking opportunities

To Apply

If you’re interested in joining blink as a trustee, please apply through here with a short expression of interest, outlining your experience and why this role feels like a good fit for you.

We are happy to receive applications in word or PDF (no more than 2 A4 sides), or video presentation.

You are welcome to contact us for an informal chat before applying, and to let us know if you have any support or accessibility needs. 

Inspiring, supportive, and committed - just a few of the words we’d use to describe our volunteers. 

At Rethink Mental Illness, volunteers are at the heart of what we do. They play a vital role in supporting our services and making a real difference in people’s lives. If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can have a positive impact while developing your own skills and experience, we’d love you to join us. 

About the role

We are looking for Volunteer Befrienders to support our Brent Mental Health service in the London Borough of Brent. 

As a Volunteer Befriender, you will be required to travel across Brent to meet with service users and carry out your role. Ideally, you will be able to commit a minimum of 2 hours per week to volunteering. 

You will be supported by Befriending Volunteer Coordinators who will provide regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role. You can read more about the benefits of volunteering on the full advert on our website.

About the service

Our Brent Mental Health service provides support to people aged 18 and above, who live in the Borough of Brent, and who have a mental illness and are known to the local NHS trust Central and North West London (CNWL).

The Befriending Service aims to;

• Reduce social isolation of service users
• Increase the confidence of service users in accessing community resources independently
• Provide meaningful activities and peer support for service users 
• Help service users to live happier, healthier, independent lives
• Provide volunteering opportunities for people with mental health issues
• Reduce stigma and raise mental health awareness

What you will be doing as a Volunteer Befriender:

• Meeting with service users in locations and times which meet their needs (including evenings and weekends)
• Provide befriending support to a maximum of 2 service users at any one time
• Provide emotional support based on your own lived experience
• Support service users to access and build social and community networks and activities
• Act as a community connector to local services

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• You will have good communication skills
• You will be flexible to meet the needs of the service users

How to apply 

To apply, simply click the “apply now” button on the advert on our website and complete a short interest form. 

If you would like to express an interest in this opportunity, please complete an application as soon as possible, as the advert may close early if we receive a high level of interest.

Who are we?

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”    

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.    

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion  

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.  

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation  

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.  

We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. 

Ride High Children’s Volunteer 

Children's team seeking friendly, encouraging, supportive volunteers that are open to working with horses. No experience necessary. 

At Ride High MK, our charity helps over 120 children a week. These local children are referred to us for many reasons and could face serious challenges including poverty, mental health issues, and social isolation or be tackling issues such as grief, young carer responsibilities and bullying. With referrals from over 40 local agencies, including CAMHS, schools, and social services, Ride High plays a critical role in Milton Keynes’ social care and wellbeing landscape. We do this through a unique combination of equine-assisted learning and education.  

Every two-hour session for the children consists of one hour riding and horse care and one hour of clubroom work. The instructors at the riding school run the hour on the yard with our volunteers supporting the children and our skilled club leaders run the clubroom sessions. These include various projects and creative activities to work on personal and life skills. 

The Children’s volunteer role involves welcoming the children, helping to find their equipment, getting them out into the stable yard for their lesson on time, assisting with riding lessons where appropriate (no experience necessary) and clubroom activities, giving the children refreshments and helping to see that they get their transport home. 

We are looking for volunteers, aged 18 or over, who can commit to a regular weekly time to work with the children; helping to build their confidence, encouraging them to participate in sessions. Our greatest need is for volunteers who can help in the yard sessions, donating an hour of their time each week for the first hour of the session to help us keep the children safe and giving reassurance and encouragement so they get the most out of their session with the horses. The volunteers lead our horses while the children hone their skills and help them to understand and process directions from their riding instructors.

Timings:  

Monday to Friday (term-time only). 10:30am - 12:30pm 1:30pm-2:30pm or 2:30pm-3:30pm 

If you'd like to visit Ride High for a tour and to find out more about becoming a children's volunteer, contact Joanna

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care. 

As a RPR support volunteer, you might:

• As an RPR Support Volunteer you might: 
• Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support 
• Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes 
• Raise concerns 
• Keep detailed notes and records 
• Make a real difference to someone’s life 

Support Session Volunteer

You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities.  Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis.  The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual. 

As a support session volunteer, you might: 

• help people have their say when it matters most
• Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
• help people to make complaints and use local services

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.

To find out more click “Apply Now”.