Health safety volunteer roles

About MORSE (Making Our Road Safer for Everyone):

The MORSE service supports individuals who have either committed a driving offence or through local Police intelligence are identified at being at risk of committing an offence. The aims of the service are to reduce the amount of road traffic offences being committed on our roads, which in turn will reduce the number of collisions, injuries and fatalities. Included in the support is the delivery of a Road Safety Programme which focuses on the individual’s behaviour whilst they are driving. 

MORSE is delivered in partnership with the Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service and West Mercia Police.

Role overview / Main tasks:

• Attend Road Safety sessions and events, working in partnership with other agencies
• Provide administrative support on managing referrals
• Promote MORSE to mature drivers and facilitate one-on-one interventions

What we’re looking for:

• Ability to travel to events across locations (full driving license and access to a vehicle)
• Confidence/Ability to promote the service and discuss road safety with people of all ages
• Good communication skills
• An approachable demeanour
• Ability to self-organise and work both independently and within a team

What we can offer:

• Autonomous working within a small friendly team, flexible arrangements
• Basic training in relevant tools and skills (if required)
• Access to advice from our colleagues/business partners to further your knowledge and experience
• Networking opportunities across multiple organisations both in the public and private sector
• References for your CV/job applications

Experienced in retail? Passionate about community? We are looking for a new trustee to join our board of governors at our second hand furniture charity.

Help shape a local charity with big ambitions

We’re entering an exciting new chapter and we’d love you to be part of it. As some of our current trustees reach the end of their terms, we’re looking for new people to join our dynamic board and help guide the future of Community Furniture Stores.

We are a grassroots charity with big impact. Each year, we help thousands of people across York, Selby and Scarborough access affordable, good-quality furniture and digital devices, tackle poverty, and gain skills through volunteering. We’re currently undertaking a radical redesign of how we operate as a charity so we can support more people and increase our impact. The board plays a crucial role in shaping and guiding the strategic direction of this transformation. If you want to make a real difference locally and be part of something ambitious, now is the perfect time to get involved.

What Do Our Trustees Do?

As a volunteer trustee, you’ll:

• Be part of quarterly board meetings, plus one AGM and an annual away day.
• Join a sub-committee to support specific areas like finance, retail, volunteering or communications.
• Contribute ideas, challenge thinking, and support decisions that help us grow. Be a visible and active champion of our work

Why Join Us?

Be a force for good in your community – support local people by helping us tackle furniture and digital poverty head-on.

Shape the future – guide a growing, evolving charity during a major organisational merger and rebrand.

Learn and grow – learn about charity governance and collaborate with people from diverse sectors.

Connect and contribute – join sub-committees and contribute hands-on to meaningful projects

Who Are We Looking For?

We welcome trustees from all walks of life, whether you’re early in your career, retired, or somewhere in between. We believe diversity of thought and experience makes us stronger.

We’re particularly keen to hear from people with experience in:

• Retail – especially as we navigate our merger and look to improve our services.
• HR or health & safety
• Legal (employment, charity, or property)
• Fundraising or business development
• Social justice, poverty, housing or digital inclusion

But don’t worry if you don’t tick every box. If you care about what we do and want to help us do it better — that’s what counts. You don’t need previous board experience. What matters most is your passion, perspective and commitment to our mission.

We welcome all voices, and we’re especially keen to hear from people in Selby and Scarborough. Diversity makes us stronger.

Are you passionate about shaping inclusive, values-led workplaces? Do you bring strategic insight into people, culture, and organisational development? We are seeking an Independent Committee Member to join our People Committee and help guide the charity’s work in creating a high-performing, compassionate and inclusive environment.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute your expertise to a respected organisation which is making a real difference across Wales. You’ll work alongside senior leaders, influence strategic decisions, and help uphold the charity’s commitment to excellence, safety, and integrity.

NB: This is a voluntary role with expenses covered in line with our policy. The initial term is three years, with the possibility of extension for a further 3 years.

What you will do

· Provide independent scrutiny, insight and support on people, culture and experience matters

· Support the delivery of the people experience strategy

· Shape people and organisational development work

· Uphold governance and champion the charity’s values

· Attend quarterly People Committee meetings (mostly remote)

· Contribute to wider strategic sessions as required.

What you will need to succeed

· Strategic experience in HR, workforce development, or organisational culture

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills

· Ability to offer objective, evidence-based insight and challenge

· Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and continuous improvement

· Willingness to undertake relevant training (First Aid, Safeguarding, DBS)

What you will gain

· Experience in a large, complex, values-driven organisation

· Opportunities to engage with the Board and Executive Leadership Team

· A chance to make a meaningful impact on communities across Wales

St John - Worldwide

St John is an international charity with 900 years of history that in modern times provides first aid, health care and support services in over 40 countries around the world. Together the 44 Priories make up the Order of St John.

St John - in Wales

St John Ambulance Cymru (SJAC) is an independent Priory within the Order of St John. We are a working Order of Chivalry of the British Crown with His Majesty the King as its Sovereign Head, which is accredited to the United Nations.

We are Wales’ leading first aid charity. Our new 2025-2030 Strategy has the mission of “Wales as a Community of Lifesavers”. In order to do this we have 4 strategic objectives:

1. Experience: We want to be the best volunteering offer in Wales. We want our St John people to have the best experience, training, leadership, and equipment.

2. Maximising the potential of our Children and Young People.

3. Increasing our focus on Community Education.

4.  Making St John more inclusive and sustainable.

We work closely with NHS Wales and the Welsh Ambulance Service University Trust (WASUT). We provide on-site first aid and medical services at events across Wales from local events in your community to international sporting and cultural events.  In order to do this we have around 2000 St John People, a mixture of employees and volunteers as well as around 800 Children and Young People.

How to apply

We are committed to being a diverse organisation which is truly representative of the communities we serve. We are an equal opportunities organisation with an inclusive environment, where we aim to ensure all our people can contribute to their fullest potential. Having a team that reflects the diversity of local communities is particularly important to us, so we encourage people with a range of backgrounds and experiences to apply. Whilst our roots are based in a Christian background, we welcome applicants from other faiths and those without faith.

The application form explores your motivation for applying and asks you to provide information on your relevant experience and skills that you could bring to the role.  Please provide as much information as possible. You will also be asked to upload a CV in support of your application.

Potential candidates with questions about this role are welcome to contact our Director of People, Culture and Experience  or the Chair of the People Committee with their questions or to arrange an informal discussion .

The closing date for applications will be Sunday 12th October.  Interviews will take place during w.c 20th October 2025.

Location: Oxfordshire Discovery College, Didcot 
Commitment: To be confirmed with the volunteer  - Expected minimum 3 hours a week for a period of 6 weeks.
Reports to: Volunteer Manager

Role Overview

We are seeking a confident and compassionate volunteer to co-facilitate our mental health and wellbeing programmes for adults who care for or support young people struggling with their mental health. Working alongside an ODC staff facilitator, you'll help create safe, inclusive spaces that encourage open conversation, emotional safety, and mutual respect. 

This role is ideal for someone with lived or professional experience of mental health who is confident working with groups and interested in supporting others. You’ll contribute to meaningful sessions that empower adults and indirectly benefit young people across Oxfordshire.

We ask all volunteers to be open, honest, and reflective about the skills they already bring, the areas they’d like to develop, and their current mental health and wellbeing so that we can support you to facilitate safely and sustainably.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people, while being part of a collaborative, values-driven team. It’s also a great chance to develop your facilitation skills and gain hands-on experience in mental health psychoeducation. We provide full training, regular supervision, and ongoing support and we welcome applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Key Tasks

As a facilitator, your activities may include, but are not limited to:

• Being reliability, committing to agreed dates and tasks

• Co-facilitate engaging, structured group sessions for supportive adults in a community setting, alongside one of our staff facilitators

• Create a safe, inclusive and supportive group environment, encouraging participation, emotional safety, and mutual respect

• Managing the group alone for short periods and engaging in sensitive 1:1 conversations if the staff facilitator is briefly otherwise engaged.

• Undertake appropriate safeguarding training, be alert to safeguarding concerns, follow ODC’s safeguarding procedures, and report any concerns promptly to the designated safeguarding lead.

• Assist with setting up and packing down sessions, and help manage session resources as needed

• Take part in session debriefs, offering insights and feedback to support ongoing programme improvement

• Participate in relevant training and supervision, including safeguarding, ODC  policies, programme orientation, and ongoing reflective practice

• Work alongside ODC staff, upholding our values around co-production, youth voice, and mental health support

Optional Activities

• Support with session planning and preparation, contributing ideas and helping shape delivery in line with programme aims

• Support with programme administration and data entry, such as attendance logs, feedback forms or basic evaluation tasks

• Where appropriate and possible to share parts of your own lived experience journey

• Carry out 1:1 learning and support meetings with participants prior to programme delivery. 

Skills and Experience

We’re looking for volunteers who can bring some of the following skills and experience to the role. We don’t expect that you will meet every point — we value both professional and lived experience, and we offer training and support to help you grow and develop your skills.

• Working with adults in group settings

• Experience as a supportive adult to a young person struggling with their mental health

• Knowledge of mental health, emotional wellbeing, and youth voice

• Planning, organising and basic admin tasks

• Computer literate

• Working as part of a team and ability to reflect on your own practice

• Awareness of safeguarding principles 

• Lived experience of mental health challenges (this may include your own experience or supporting others)

• Professional expertise eg mental health, education, youth work 

What We Offer

• Training: Full training provided.

• Opportunities for development: We will support you to build confidence, grow your skills and gain valuable experience with this role.

• Regular Supervisions: Supportive check-ins to review your role and tasks.

• Wellness Action Plan: We prioritise volunteer well-being through personalised wellness plans.

• Make an Impact: Your involvement will significantly enhance our ability to provide services effectively and make a difference to the lives of young people in Oxfordshire.

At RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, our charity shops are looking for friendly volunteers to join our team and help make our shop a huge success. Make new friends, have fun, and help us help more animals!

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager and 1-2 other volunteers to help make it a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare. 

Why Volunteer With Us?

As a volunteer charity shop assistant, you will:

• Support a worthwhile cause and help improve animal welfare.

• Be part of a friendly and dedicated team.

• Enjoy a fun and fulfilling role at the heart of the local community.

• Training and development opportunities, including induction and ongoing support.

• Learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more.

• Access to the RSPCA Learning Hub with a wide range of training materials.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Helping customers in the shop find what they need.

• Accepting donations of items and money from the public.

• Processing sales through the till and card machine, including Gift Aid.

• Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell.

• Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging items.

• Merchandising stock on the shop floor.

• Creating attractive shop window displays.

What We’re Looking For:

• Friendly volunteers who are confident talking to people.

• Retail experience would be ideal but is not necessary as full training will be given.

• We are ideally aiming for someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment predominately 8 hours or more per week.

• Good communication and numeracy skills.

• You will need to be aged 16 or over.

What’s in It for You?

• Meet new people and make new friends.

• Learn new skills to enhance your CV.

• A comprehensive induction and training programme relevant to your role.

• Volunteer in a fun environment at the heart of your local community.

• Know that your time and effort is making a real difference to the welfare of animals.

• We’re happy to reimburse reasonable travel expenses incurred while volunteering.

Practical Considerations:

• Health & Safety: You’ll need to complete a simple online Health & Safety course before starting the role.

Disclaimer:

Our voluntary roles are subject to:

• An informal interview and trial period.

• Submission of two referees’ contact details.

• Completion of relevant training and assessments for the role.

Support the work of St John Ambulance in your community by volunteering as a Community Volunteer, an exciting new role which is designed to revamp how volunteering looks in the modern world; flexible, innovative and is open for all.

We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient. Community Volunteers can choose from a wide selection of activities – including fundraising, talks and demonstrations, supporting at events, volunteer welfare, social media and administration support.

Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives.

Give as much (or little) time as you can afford. With this new role, you simply volunteer when it works for you. That means you can give as much time as you like or as little as 24 hours across a whole year, whenever it suits you. It’s perfect for busy lives, changing schedules, or for anyone seeking a low-commitment involvement. 

The Community Volunteer provides an easy way to stay connected and contribute meaningfully to your local community. Here are some examples of what you could do: 

• Community fundraising
• Talks and demonstrations
• Support at events
• Volunteer welfare
• Community Roadshows
• Supporting national campaigns
• Counting and banking money
• Booking events
• Supporting Networks  
• Administration support
• Writing thank you and community letters
• Media and social media
• Community news and Network newsletters 

Through volunteering as a Community Volunteer, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.

Once we have completed your selection and screening for this role, we will provide you with an induction, as well as invite you to any necessary training sessions. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Be the driving force behind our mission. Help support fundraising, welfare on events, and admin support. Examples of how to get involved Community Fundraising Collections & Counting Money Banking Money Booking Events Volunteer Welfare Support at Events, Networks and in times of Need Admin Support Writing Thank You & Community Letters Media & Social Media Community News & Network Newsletter

We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on ad hoc basis with candidates.

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role dates to be confirmed. Mandatory training: Induction programme introducing you to the charity Essential training including safeguarding, health & safety and GDPR Training specifically for the activities you choose to undertake.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 28/08/2025

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

At RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, our Volunteer Events Assistants are vital in helping us raise the funds we need to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome or release hundreds of animals each year! 

This is an excellent volunteering opportunity which would enable you to play a major role in our fundraising activities, really put your flair into the role, and gain a vast amount of personal satisfaction and achievement in return.

Why Volunteer With Us?

As a volunteer events assistant, you will:

• Support a worthwhile cause and help improve animal welfare in your area.

• Be part of a friendly and dedicated team.

• Enjoy a fun and fulfilling role at the heart of the local community.

• Training and development opportunities, including induction and ongoing support.

• Learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, fundraising, and many more.

• Access to the RSPCA Learning Hub with a wide range of training materials.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Helping out at fundraising events to spread awareness, raise money and educate the public on animal welfare. 

• Assisting with the preparation for fundraising events, including driving donations, drafting leaflets, coordinating with other volunteers and much more.

• Helping us identify potential sources of funding which could be explored so we can continue this important work.

• Using your knowledge of the area to contact local businesses who might be interested in supporting the RSPCA. 

What We’re Looking For:

• Someone who is reliable and committed to helping us. 

• Excellent organisational and communication skills as well as being PC literate. 

• Excellent interpersonal skills which you will utilise when interacting with the public.

• Previous experience of organising events or managing projects on any scale would be desirable but not a requirement.

• Someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment predominately on weekends.

• You will need to be aged 16 or over.

What’s in It for You?

• Meet new people and make new friends.

• Learn new skills to enhance your CV.

• A comprehensive induction and training programme relevant to your role.

• Volunteer in a fun environment at the heart of your local community.

• Know that your time and effort is making a real difference to the welfare of animals.

• We’re happy to reimburse reasonable travel expenses incurred while volunteering. You will need to arrange your own travel to events in the South Buckinghamshire area.

Practical Considerations:

• Health & Safety: You’ll need to complete a simple online Health & Safety course before starting the role.

Disclaimer:

Our voluntary roles are subject to:

• An informal interview and trial period.

• Submission of two referees’ contact details.

• Completion of relevant training and assessments for the role.

We are looking for a Trustee to lead on safeguarding and ensure all non-HR policies are compliant, up-to-date, and effective. 

The role is unpaid and voluntary with an estimated time commitment of around 2 hours per week. 

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Knowledge of safeguarding principles and regulatory requirements.

·Policy development experience.

·Strong governance understanding.

Desirable

·Professional safeguarding training.

·Experience liaising with safeguarding boards or regulators.

Responsibilities specific to the Safeguarding & Policy Trustee role

·Oversee safeguarding policies and procedures.

·Ensure appropriate Designated Safeguarding Leads are trained and supported.

·Lead the review and approval of non-HR policies (e.g. health & safety, data protection, risk management).

·Ensure regular training and awareness for staff, trustees, and volunteers.

·Review safeguarding and policy-related incident reports.

·Maintain relationships with statutory agencies and safeguarding boards.

Wider Responsibilities (Shared with All Trustees)

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’s own governance.

·Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

·Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Attributes and qualities

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

·Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

·Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

·Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

·A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

·Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

·Willingness to lead according to our values.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Volunteer Cat Fosterers Needed 

Do you have a safe, calm, and caring home where a cat in need could stay while we help them find their fur-ever home? The RSPCA is looking for new volunteer fosterers to join our team and provide temporary care for cats — from strays and abandoned pets to even feral cats who need patient, understanding fosterers. 

What you’ll be doing: 

• Offering cats a safe, warm, and loving temporary home. 

• Helping cats build confidence, whether they are friendly pets or more nervous ferals. 

• Attending vet appointments when required. 

• Working with us to give updates on your foster cat’s progress. 

What we’re looking for: 

• Volunteers aged 18 or over who are confident and comfortable around cats — including strays and ferals. 

• No previous fostering experience needed — just patience, commitment, and a genuine love of cats. 

• Applicants must be available to foster for the RSPCA and not currently volunteering with other animal charities. 

• You don’t need to live alone, but all family members (and pets) must be cat friendly. 

• Located in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, and surrounding areas. 

What’s in it for you? 

• Make a real difference to the lives of cats in need. 

• Gain new skills, training, and experience in animal care. 

• Join a supportive community of fellow volunteers. 

• Enhance your CV with valuable volunteering experience. 

• All food, bedding, and equipment provided. 

Practical Considerations: 

• You may need to complete a simple online Health & Safety course before fostering begins. 

• Ideally, you’ll have a spare room or calm space where foster cats can settle safely. 
  
  Our voluntary roles are subject to: 

• An informal interview and trial period. 

• Two referees – which may be sourced from an educational institution or as personal references 

• Completion of relevant training and assessments. 

Location: Oxfordshire Discovery College, Didcot / Oxfordshire-based Primary School
Commitment: To be confirmed with the volunteer  - Expected minimum 3 hours a week for a period of 10 -12 weeks.
Reports to: Volunteer Manager

Role Overview

We are seeking a confident and compassionate volunteer to co-facilitate our mental health and wellbeing programmes for young people in school settings. This role involves working with small groups of students to support emotional learning and create safe, engaging spaces to deliver the Discovery Colleges evidence based psychoeducation programmes. You will work alongside one of our core facilitators to deliver sessions and support programme planning. 

Experience in facilitation, teaching, youth work or similar settings is beneficial. We welcome both lived experience and professional expertise in mental health and wellbeing, and value the unique perspective each volunteer brings.

You’ll need to feel comfortable working in schools and be confident engaging with young people in a supportive, structured environment. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in young lives while being part of a collaborative and values-led team. It’s also a great chance to build your facilitation skills, gain hands-on experience in mental health education, and grow your confidence working with young people.

Key Tasks

As a facilitator, your activities may include, but are not limited to:

• Being reliable — committing to agreed dates and tasks

• Co-facilitate engaging, structured group sessions for young people (age 7 - 11) in school settings, alongside one of our staff facilitators

• Create a safe, inclusive and supportive group environment, encouraging participation, emotional safety, and mutual respect

• Managing the group alone for short periods and engaging in sensitive 1:1 conversations with young people, if staff facilitator is otherwise engaged for brief periods

• Undertake appropriate safeguarding training, be alert to safeguarding concerns, follow ODC’s safeguarding procedures, and report any concerns promptly to the designated safeguarding lead

• Assist with setting up and packing down sessions, and help manage session resources as needed

• Take part in session debriefs, offering insights and feedback to support ongoing programme improvement

• Participate in relevant training and supervision, including safeguarding, ODC policies, programme orientation, and ongoing reflective practice

• Work alongside ODC staff, upholding our values around co-production, youth voice, and mental health support

Optional Activities

• Support with session planning and preparation, contributing ideas and helping shape delivery in line with programme aims

• Support with programme administration and data entry, such as attendance logs, feedback forms or basic evaluation tasks

• Where appropriate and comfortable, to share parts of your own lived experience and recovery journey 

• Conduct Parent Information calls to support our work before the programme starts and when it has been completed

Skills and Experience

We’re looking for volunteers who can bring some of the following skills and experience to the role. We don’t expect that you will meet every point — we value both professional and lived experience, and we offer training and support to help you grow and develop your skills.

• Working with young people, particularly in group settings (e.g. teaching, youth work, mentoring, facilitation, or similar)

• Knowledge of mental health, emotional wellbeing, and youth voice

• Planning, organising and basic admin tasks

• Computer literacy 

• Working as part of a team and ability to reflect on your own practice

• Awareness of safeguarding principles

• Lived experience of mental health challenges (this may include your own experience or supporting others)

• Professional expertise e.g. mental health, education, youth work

What We Offer

• Training: Full training provided.

• Opportunities for Development: We’ll support you to build confidence, grow your skills, and gain valuable experience with this role.

• Regular Supervisions: Supportive check-ins to review your role and tasks.

• Wellness Action Plan: We prioritise volunteer well-being through personalised wellness plans.

• Make an Impact: Your involvement will significantly enhance our ability to provide services effectively and make a difference to the lives of young people in Oxfordshire.

Emerge Worldwide exists to amplify voices until freedom rings for all women and girls.

Our vision is to see sexual exploitation and sex trafficking abolished, and it starts one mind at a time, one life at a time!

Our mission is to prevent sexual exploitation and trafficking by advocating for policy reform, raising public awareness, and providing comprehensive support to victims/survivors. The organisation aims to assist vulnerable youth, particularly girls, and women, influence public discourse through education, and foster systemic change to enhance protections for individuals impacted by exploitation and trafficking.

Purpose of Role

The Communications Officer will play a key role in ensuring effective internal and external communication across Emerge Worldwide. This role will be responsible for producing high-quality newsletters, managing communication with partners, collaborators, influencers, and associates, maintaining organisational directories, and supporting the flow of information across departments. The Communications Officer will also manage calendars, support administrative needs, and liaise with the social media team to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment.

This position requires excellent organisational, IT, and communication skills, alongside a proactive approach to supporting the charity’s mission and daily operations.

Role Description - What will I be doing?

 Communications & Engagement

• Draft, design, and distribute newsletters and organisational updates to stakeholders.
• Maintain effective communication with partners, collaborators, influencers, and associates.
• Identify and manage key contacts and opportunities for engagement.
• Share key information across internal departments and teams to improve collaboration.
• Work with departments to ensure consistent messaging across all channels.
• Support the development of communication strategies to raise Emerge Worldwide’s profile.

 Administration & Coordination

• Respond to general email enquiries and redirect them appropriately.
• Manage shared drives, organisational directories, and ensure accurate record-keeping.
• Coordinate and set up meetings, including preparing agendas and taking minutes.
• Support calendar management for the organisation, ensuring alignment across departments.
• Assist with the preparation of presentations, reports, and communication materials.
• Work closely with the Operations Manager to ensure smooth organisational communication flow.
• Work within agreed budgets and managing resources effectively.

 Technical & IT

• Use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reporting, communication, and presentations.
• Support the use of Mailchimp or other IT software for mass communications.
• Maintain mailing lists, contact directories, and subscription platforms.
• Ensure compliance with data protection, GDPR, and organisational policies when managing contacts.

 Other Duties

• Support wider organisational projects and campaigns where communication is required.
• Build and maintain professional relationships with stakeholders.
• Participate in departmental and cross departmental progress meetings, training, and 1:1s
• Undertake training and professional development as required.
• Carry out any other duties in line with the role as directed by the Operations Manager.

Person Specification - What skills and qualities do I need?

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to draft professional correspondence and engaging content.
• Excellent IT skills, particularly Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience using digital communication tools such as Mailchimp, CRM systems, or equivalent.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Experience managing calendars, meetings, and administrative systems.
• Experience of successfully working collaboratively across teams or departments.
• Attention to detail with a proactive and solution-focused approach.
• Proactive, showing initiative, with the ability to work unsupervised
• Understanding of confidentiality, safeguarding, and GDPR compliance.

 Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience working in a charity, non-profit, or mission-driven organisation.
• Familiarity with managing contact directories, databases, or CRM systems.
• Knowledge of social media platforms and how they integrate with organisational communication.
• Experience of stakeholder engagement and partnership communication.
• Ability to produce visually engaging newsletters, reports, and presentations.
• Event coordination or project support experience.

 Personal Qualities

• A collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills.
• Confident, professional, and approachable communication style.
• Able to work independently and take initiative.
• Flexible and adaptable.
• Passionate about Emerge Worldwide’s mission to advocate against sexual exploitation and support vulnerable groups.

Requirements

• Resides in the UK and is eligible to volunteer
• A DBS check, if applicable
• Able to work in alignment with Emerge Worldwide’s policies, procedures, values, standards, and boundaries, including those relating to confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, and the volunteer code of conduct.
• Model Emerge Worldwide values and behaviours in all team activities

What support will I receive?

• An induction, ongoing training, supervision and support from your supervisor and the team
• Access to Emerge Worldwide’s training courses
• Out of pocket expenses approved in advance will be reimbursed

I would like to volunteer:

Please submit a Cv and cover email

References will be taken upon successful offer.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.