Health and wellbeing volunteer volunteer volunteer roles

It’s easy to forget how long a week can feel when you’re on your own. Could you spare an hour to brighten an older person’s day? Age Connects Cardiff and the Vale is looking for friendly volunteers to offer companionship to people who may spend long periods alone with little or no social contact.

A weekly visit or phone call can lift someone’s mood, ease isolation, and give them something positive to look forward to. You don’t need any experience — just kindness, good listening skills, and a genuine enjoyment of chatting.

What the older person gains

• Feeling less alone and more connected

• A boost to mood, confidence and wellbeing

• Friendly reassurance from someone they trust

What you gain

• The chance to make a real difference

• Warm, meaningful connections

• A flexible role that fits around life

• The feel‑good impact of helping someone feel less isolated

About CARAS:

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and people seeking asylum who live in south London. We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a background of forced migration, providing them with tools to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for young people currently include: ESOL classes (English for Speakers of Other Languages), study group, youth club, swimming lessons and football.

About Youth Club:

Youth Club is a place for young people aged 14-19 to come and play games, learn new skills, make and strengthen friendships and build a sense of belonging. Regular activities include classic youth club games such as table tennis, pool, foosball, board and card games. We also work in partnership with a range of organisations to run a rich programme of workshops within our youth club. Some of these have included creative visual arts, drama, music and workshops on rights and entitlements of young asylum seekers. We also cook a hot meal from time to time and offer a range of snacks each week. Our casework team are also on-site to support young people with a range of advice and signposting needs, usually by-appointment.

Youth club takes place at Furzedown Youth Centre. Welham Rd, London SW16 6TJ

About the role:

As a Youth Club volunteer, you would be helping young people to feel welcome, join in with activities and be a great role model.

Youth Club takes place every Wednesday at 6.00-8.30pm. We ask for a commitment of at least 2 sessions per month for a minimum of 6 months.

Tasks and responsibilities:

· To attend and contribute to volunteer de-briefs which occur 15 minutes after each session.

· To act as a positive role model and set standards of behaviour when volunteering with young people.

· To encourage and inspire young people to reach their full potential.

· To assist young people to both recognise and celebrate their achievements.

· To challenge young peoples’ negative attitudes and behaviour in an appropriate manner.

· To adhere to CARAS Child Protection procedures, Confidentiality policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant.

Requirements:

To be 18 years or older;

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

· To be reliable and punctual;

· Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English;

· The ability to volunteer on Wednesday evenings for a minimum of six months;

· Current resident of the UK;

· Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check;

· Able to attend compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding prior to the start of role

Volunteer induction training currently takes place online once a month on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evenings from 6pm - 8pm. we offer the same trainings on Tuesday and Wednesday daytimes online between 12noon - 2pm once every 3 months.

Your availability to attend 1 general and 1 safeguarding online training session at these times within 3 months of your application would be a prerequisite of being accepted as a volunteer at CARAS.

Desirable:

· Knowledge of community languages, such as (including Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali and Spanish).

Through volunteering with us you will:

· Meet new members of your local community;

· Learn about different cultures;

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

· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;

· Develop your skills and competencies;

· Be able to access relevant training;

Key Information

Frequency:1-2 hours per week 

Intended Commitment:~ 26 weeks (6 months)

Location:Various locations across Sandwell

Please note that applications to volunteer in this role will start to be reviewed week commencing 24th August; please allow until the end of August to be contacted.

The Role

• Meet regularly with an older person and help them identify a meaningful personal goal

• Break the goal into small, manageable weekly steps.

• Offer encouragement, companionship and practical support.

• Help them explore local groups, activities, transport or digital opportunities.

• Support them to become confident enough to continue independently when the volunteering relationship ends.

Examples of goals could include joining a community group, using public transport, learning to make video calls or reconnecting with a favourite activity.

Personal qualities and skills

• Friendly, patient and encouraging

• A good listener and communicator

• Reliable and able to attend regularly

• Comfortable helping someone work towards agreed goals

• Able to motivate and support without taking over

• Understanding of professional boundaries and promoting independence

• Confident with basic IT, email and online searches

A driving licence and access to a car may be required, depending on the person’s location and support needs.

Commitment/Details

• Frequency: 1–2 hours per week

• Commitment: Approximately six months

• Location: Across Sandwell

• Expenses: Travel expenses reimbursed

• DBS: Enhanced DBS check required and arranged by us

What you will gain

• See the direct difference your support makes

• Develop skills in goal setting, mentoring and active listening

• Receive full induction and role-specific training

• Make a meaningful impact through a defined, short-term commitment

• Training in subjects such as Befriending, Loneliness and Isolation, Making Every Contact Count (MECC), Goal Setting, and more.

We are a Manchester based dementia support charity, looking to recruit a team of Volunteer Minibus Escorts, to accompany our drivers onboard our two Together Dementia Support minibuses - helping to pick-up and drop-off our service users before and after groups.

Drivers and Escorts are a key part of our service user experience – you’ll be their first and last contact with Together Dementia Support each week, so we rely on our escorst  provide a to be positive, supportive and enjoyable experience.

Volunteer Escorts will board the minibus with our drivers in the morning (at the Kath Locke Centre, M15 5DD) ready to pick service users up and transport them to the group, which will run for 2 hours. Depending on your availability, once the group has ended there is an option to finish your volunteering shift, or support members on the minibus for the return journey – finishing back at the Kath Locke Centre. We may also ask you to begin your volunteering shift at the group, and then support on the return journey.

You’ll be responsible for our service users boarding and disembark the minibus safely, and engaging with them throughout the journey. You also be expected to stay in good contact with our service users and carers around pick-up times, delays or issues. You’ll also stay in good contact with our office and the group Dementia Support Co-ordinator around any issues or problems.

All volunteers are also expected to adhere to the following Together Dementia Support policies – Health & Safety, Safeguarding, Equality Diversity & Inclusion, and any other policies deemed relevant.

Minibus Escorts will recieve comprehensive Induction Training, and Moving & Handling Training. You will also have to understake a DBS Check, which we cover the cost for.

Perks & benefits:

• Travel expeneses covered
• On site, free parking available
• All training provided - no experience necessary
• Great experience of working within a health and social care environment
• Opportunity to learn more about dementia, and how it affects those living with the condition
• Opportunity to join a diverse volunteering community, and support local people living with dementia to live better

Benefits:

• Free or subsidised travel
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Do you love marketing, creativity, and fresh ideas? Would you like to use your skills to support a cause that truly matters?

We’re looking for a Legacy Marketing Volunteer to work alongside our friendly Legacies Team, helping us innovate and energise how we promote this vital source of income.

What you’ll be doing:

• Bringing new ideas to our annual legacy marketing plans
• Researching current marketing trends and sharing insight
• Supporting awareness campaigns that inspire supporters
• Assisting with data and reporting
• Helping to steward pledges and gather meaningful legacy stories
• Working collaboratively to enhance and grow our impact

This role will take place at Dorothy House Hospice in Winsley, fortnightly on a Wednesday morning.

This role is perfect for someone who:

• Has marketing experience (professional or voluntary)
• Is creative, curious and full of ideas
• Is computer literate and confident working with data
• Enjoys collaboration and making a difference

Why volunteer with us?

Because legacy giving changes lives, and so can you. Your skills will directly support the future of hospice care while giving you the chance to do meaningful, rewarding work. Interested? We'd love to hear from you.

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 Lunch Delivery. 

• Deliver the Hot Lunches into people’s homes. 

• Report any observations or concerns about service users’ wellbeing to the supervisor.

Tasks will include: 

• Supporting the Driver on the Lunch Delivery. 

• Carrying Hot Meals into Service Users Homes. 

• Using Key Safes to open doors where necessary. 

• Delivering Laundry and Shopping to some Service Users. 

• Provide a point of contact for Service Users. 

• Reporting on changes in Service Users well-being. 

• Reporting back any safeguarding concerns immediately to the supervisor. 

• Maintain regular contact with the supervisor. 

• Attend meetings and supervision sessions. 

What you will receive in return: 

• Training in Safeguarding. 

• Training in Food Handling. 

• 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. 

Maintenance Volunteer

About the Role

As a Maintenance Volunteer, you will help maintain and improve the homes and environments of people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities. Your support will help create safe, comfortable, and welcoming spaces where people can thrive.

This role involves practical tasks such as painting, decorating, gardening, and general DIY. Please note that electrical, plumbing, and gas work are not included in this volunteer role.

 The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

• Improve the appearance and comfort of people's homes.
• Create safe and welcoming environments.
• Support people to feel proud of where they live.
• Enhance the wellbeing of the people we support.

 What You Will Do

• Assist with painting and decorating projects.
• Carry out basic DIY tasks and minor repairs.
• Help with gardening and outdoor maintenance.
• Support with assembling furniture and equipment.
• Follow health and safety guidance at all times.
• Report any maintenance concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Practical and reliable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Happy to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

 Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Complete volunteer induction and training.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and health and safety procedures.

Interested?

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

By volunteering with SeeAbility, you can help create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public.

Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported. Activities include:

· Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· Planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· Keeping financial records from fundraising events

· Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. You will be supported and guided from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

We're looking for someone with the following:

· Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others

· Excellent organisational skills

· The ability to prioritise and delegate

· An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly

· Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community

· Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided

· Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public.

Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported. Activities include:

· Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· Planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· Keeping financial records from fundraising events

· Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. You will be supported and guided from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

We're looking for someone with the following:

· Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others

· Excellent organisational skills

· The ability to prioritise and delegate

· An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly

· Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community

· Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided

· Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Our vision for volunteering

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

The difference you will make to cats and people

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

You can expect us to

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

 What we need from you

You’ll be:

· overseeing the collection and delivery of collection boxes in different locations

· recording donations and thanking local businesses and supporters

· researching local areas for collection box ‘hot spots’

· sharing fundraising ideas with other volunteers and putting these into practice 

· sharing your passion for cat welfare and promoting the work of Cats Protection

Time expectation

Our collection box fundraising volunteers usually spend 1 to 2 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

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

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

Breakfast Club Volunteer

Locations: Amadeus House, 18 Corfton Road, Ealing, London, W5 2HT

Timings: Each Tuesday morning approximately 10.00 – 12.00

About Waythrough

Waythrough provides specialist support across mental health, alcohol, drugs and related areas. We delivery high-quality, evidence-based services designed around the real needs of the people we serve.

Every year, we support around 125,000 people through over 250 services - and it's all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.

Make a real difference in your community 

Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change. 

The Crisis Recovery House supports people experiencing a mental health crisis, as an alternative to hospital admission, where appropriate. It also helps individuals discharged from hospital who need a brief period of intensive support.

This volunteer role supports the smooth running of the Tuesday Breakfast Club, creating a warm, welcoming and safe space for people accessing the service. As a Breakfast Club Volunteer, you help set up the space, greet attendees, support light activities and conversation, and contribute to a positive community atmosphere. You play an important part in helping service users build routine, confidence and connection as part of their recovery journey.

Tasks may include:

• Prepare the breakfast area in line with Food Hygiene regulations (training can be provided) and service guidance.
• Set up equipment, supplies and the environment to ensure the session starts smoothly and clearing up at the end of the session
• Welcome all guests warmly, helping to create a relaxed and inclusive space.
• Keep an accurate register of attendees, ensuring food allergies and dietary needs are recorded appropriately.
• Prepare and serve hot drinks and toast, ensuring hygiene and safety throughout.
• Introduce new customers to the Breakfast Club and explain what they can expect from the session.
• Support introductions among service users to help build confidence and social connection.
• Encourage the use of weekly planners or similar tools to support routine-building and recovery goals.
• Help facilitate informal group conversations and light activities, where appropriate.
• Liaise with the staff member on duty regarding any safeguarding or wellbeing concerns.
• Assist with clearing and cleaning the space at the end of the session.
• Follow all relevant Waythrough policies, including safeguarding, confidentiality, information governance and health & safety.
• Support the development and potential expansion of the Breakfast Club, including new ideas for activities, themed mornings or discussions.

Skills/qualities we would like you to bring to the role:

• Warm, friendly and approachable manner when engaging with service users
• Good communication skills and the ability to make people feel welcome
• Ability to engage respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds
• Comfortable chatting informally and supporting light group conversations
• Awareness of personal boundaries and when to seek staff support
• Organised and reliable, with good time‑keeping
• Caring, understanding and non-judgmental approach towards people with lived experience
• Able to work as part of a team and take direction when needed
• An understanding of Waythrough – information is available on our website
• A genuine interest in being part of the mission and vision of Waythrough
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, professional boundaries, adhere to Waythrough policies and media guidelines, engage in supervision, and complete relevant training

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy:

• Discounts from various schemes

• Training and personal development

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

• Free induction and role-specific training

• Support from experienced staff and regular supervision

• Opportunities to meet new people and develop your confidence

• Reimbursement for travel and agreed expenses

• Valuable experience that can support your personal or career development

Inclusion and accessibility 

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. 

We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme  - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.

Oxfam Retail Volunteers – Guisborough Redcar and Cleveland

Oxfam GB

Job details

Job type

• Volunteer

Shift and schedule

• 4 - 8-hour shift – we are very flexible
• Location: 1 Church Street, Guisborough TS14 6HG

Full job description

Oxfam's Guisborough Shop is looking for Shop Volunteers to help Oxfam’s fight to support the world’s most vulnerable communities.

We’re looking for volunteers who can give 4-8 hours (or more!) of their time in the shop each week, and we’re excited to welcome brand new volunteers to our stores!

Right now, we're looking for people to help in the shop in our stock room and with our ecommerce/online department!

Location:

Become a volunteer!

We like to give volunteers an opportunity to try a range of areas before they find something that suits them. You might become a Retail Volunteer, Till Volunteer, Stock Volunteer. Or you might find yourself in a more specialist role such as an Ecommerce Volunteer, a Shift Lead Volunteer, or even a Stock Specialist Volunteer.

Whatever your skills or interests, there’s something for everyone…

Why be a volunteer?

Your time will make a huge difference. We estimate one four-hour shift will, on average, provide enough income to enable Oxfam to provide life-saving handwashing facilities for 81 people.

Volunteering also has a positive impact on wellbeing, with an incredible 7 in 10 volunteers saying that their charitable actions were beneficial for their mental health.

Benefits of becoming a Volunteer:

· Gain genuine experience working in a retail environment.

· Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, and develop your CV.

· Great way to meet new people & be part of a community. Volunteering can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family.

· Be part of a fantastic team and make a positive change to the world.

· Opportunity to utilise and develop your transferable skills.

Volunteering with Oxfam will give you the skills, confidence and experience you need to build your CV and boost your employability. Problem solving, communication, working with others and familiarity with the workplace are universally valued by employers.

No experience is necessary as full training, and an induction will be given. You don't need to be computer literate to join our team; there are volunteer opportunities for all. All we ask is that you’re happy to work as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

We can be flexible around parenting, caring, health, employment, education, and any other commitments you have.

Tempted? Apply now!

Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

· We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

· *NB: due to the current capacity of some shops, it may be that you will be placed on a waiting list and/or, if you are under 18, until a shop has enough staff and/or volunteers DBS cleared. The Shop Manager will discuss this with you.

Job Type: Volunteer

Work Location: In person

Chair of Trustees – Mary Frances Trust

Location: Surrey/Hybrid

Time commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month

Remuneration: Voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Term: Three-year term, with potential for reappointment for up to two further terms.

We are open to reasonable adjustments and flexible approaches to the role.

About Mary Frances Trust

Mary Frances Trust (MFT) is a mental health and emotional wellbeing charity that works alongside people experiencing any kind of emotional or mental health issues, supporting them for as long as needed to restore and maintain their wellbeing. We provide a range of community-based services, co-produced with people with lived experience of mental health issues. We work closely with partners across the health sector (including NHS), local authority and the voluntary sector.

We believe that anyone experiencing mental or emotional health issues should feel confident to ask for help and receive appropriate support for as long as needed, to live a fulfilling life.

Our values are: Inspiring, Inclusive, Agile and Respectful.

We are a charitable company limited by guarantee with a Board of Trustees responsible for our overall governance, strategy and compliance.

Board culture: Our Board is friendly, established and committed, working collaboratively to provide strong governance and support MFT’s mission.

Please note, Mary Frances Trust reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

The Role

We’re seeking a Chair of Trustees to provide leadership to the Board as MFT embarks on its next phase of growth and development. This is an exciting strategic role offering the opportunity to drive meaningful change and shape the future of our organisation. You will work closely with a committed team of Trustees, staff and volunteers to set direction, provide governance and ensure MFT continues to deliver real impact for the Surrey community.

The Chair will:

• Lead the Board and support the organisation to fulfil its charitable purpose.
• Ensure effective working relationships between the Board and staff, volunteers, the Advisory Group, Members and key external stakeholders.
• Act as spokesperson and figurehead for the charity where appropriate.
• Supervise and support the Chief Executive, including an annual performance review.
• Plan and prepare Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) with the Chief Executive and other staff members as appropriate.
• Chair Board meetings effectively ensuring balanced discussion, clear decisions and actions are assigned and followed through.
• Lead regular reviews of Board effectiveness and support good succession planning for the Chair role.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive and fellow Trustees to ensure MFT meets its legal, regulatory and constitutional duties while staying true to its vision and values.

Person Specification

In addition to the skills and experience required of all MFT Trustees, the Chair will bring:

• Strong governance and leadership capability.
• The ability to chair meetings well and enable inclusive, balanced discussion and clear decisions.
• Sound judgement, and the ability to support and constructively challenge the Chief Executive.
• Tact, diplomacy and strong interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of the mental health and wellbeing sector and/or the wider voluntary sector context.
• The time and capacity to commit to around 1–2 days per month.
• Commitment to MFT’s values and to improving mental health and wellbeing in the Surrey community.

Previous experience as a Chair or Vice Chair (in a charity, public, or non-profit setting) is desirable, but we also welcome applications from candidates who can demonstrate strong governance and leadership experience and the ability to step into this role.

Additional experience that would strengthen the Board (desirable):

• HR / people governance experience.
• Capacity to support Board‑level oversight of complaints or appeals (staff or client related) where matters are escalated.
• Experience of Co‑production, lived‑experience‑led work, or collaborative approaches to service design and governance.
• Lived experience of mental health issues and/or caring experience (we value lived experience alongside governance and leadership skills).

Time Commitment

The Chair is expected to commit approximately around 1–2 days per month.

These include:

• Preparing for and chairing approximately six Board meetings a year.
• Attending the Annual General Meeting (in the autumn).
• Regular meetings with the Chief Executive.
• Occasional representation at external meetings and events.

Eligibility

You must be eligible to serve as a Charity Trustee and Company Director under UK law and be willing to complete the necessary eligibility and declaration checks.

All successful candidates will be required to undertake Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks as well as reference checks. These will be a condition of any offer of volunteering post being made.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. We strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience of mental health issues.

We welcome applications from people under‑represented in charity governance (including disabled people, people from minoritised ethnic communities, and people with lived experience of mental health challenges).
 

Role Description:

This role sits within our Men’s Minds project, based in Feltham, Hounslow. The aim of the service is to improve men’s mental health outcomes by developing a mental health network supported and directed by the voices of its members.

This will be achieved through three service strands: 1) Peer support network, 2) Psychoeducation workshops, addressing common needs of men’s mental health 3) Outreach support to raise awareness of men’s mental health and promote this service.

The role of the Volunteer Group Facilitator will be to independently run a men’s group in line with WL Mind core values. This volunteer role is suitable for people with experience and interest in facilitating groups for men. In liaison with the Co-ordinator you will be responsible for planning and delivering groups. You will help support set up and clear up the weekly groups.

Staff within the service will provide person-centred, practical and emotional support, face to face in a group basis to individuals.

We are looking for someone who

• Someone who identifies as male
• Has lived experience of mental health challenges
• Are a non-judgmental and friendly individual
• To be able to provide a welcoming, authentic, and positive experience for all, being inclusive and embracing diversity
• To feel comfortable engaging with people with mental health challenges / difficult life experiences, by validating strengths and experiences and using empowering language to overcome negative self-talk
• Are empathic and understands the stigma / social bias's surrounding mental health
• Are willing to tap into their lived experiences and use their stories to inspire hope in others when appropriate
• Are comfortable with co-producing and co-facilitating peer led workshops
• To assist the Project Coordinator with admin and planning
• Are able to take on any ad hoc admin/support responsibilities
• Knowledge around safeguarding policies and procedures
• Knowledge and experience of risk management

Time commitment and expenses:

• Flexible hours between Monday-Thurs. We are looking for someone to commit to a minimum of at least 1 or 2 activities a week.
• We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role.
   

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering at Mind is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a nationally recognised charity. 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. We would be keen to work with you to develop your own interests and use your existing skills to support the project.

Please tell us why you would like to volunteer at Men’s Minds at WL Mind? (minimum 50 words)

Please share any relevant skills or experience you have for the role. This may include education, work or voluntary experience (minimum 100 words)