Housing and homelessness volunteer roles

Overall purpose

To hold oversight of the financial operations of the Society and ensure transparency of this information.

Support and communicate with board members and staff/associates: Act as a reliable point of contact for understanding the financial status of the society.

Communicate financial information to the society’s members.

Assist with additional administrative tasks regarding managing the funds of the society such as bank accounts, mortgage accounts and share capital.

Organize and Chair the Finance Subcommittee.

Estimated time commitment is around 2 to 3 days per month and reports to the board. 

Main Responsibilities

1. Report regularly on the financial status of the society to the Board of Directors.
2. Report at the Annual General Meeting and Ordinary General Meetings to the members of the society on financial matters.
3. Act as a point of Contact for Financial questions of Directors, Staff / Associates and where applicable User Members.
4. Ensure accurate recordkeeping, compiling of financial accounts and other reports as required by regulators and ensure submission of such documents on time.
5. Chair and organize meetings of the Finance Subcommittee of the Society, collaborating with members of the subcommittee on relevant delegated tasks.
6. Occasional Duties: Provide support to User Members on financial matters or questions.

 Person Specification

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including breaking down complex financial information.
• Collaboration and teamwork abilities.
• Optional: Familiarity with cooperative principles and practices.

Why we need you

Casework triage volunteers help our caseworkers manage demand at our partner day centres by welcoming people, and assessing what issues they need support with. They then signpost people to other services where appropriate, help them access the day centre facilities, and help caseworkers to prioritise the most pressing guest needs.

When and where

Our partner day centres at the Ace of Clubs, HTB, the Upper Room, and Chelsea Methodist Church all have casework triage volunteers, who volunteer on the same day each week, usually for a 3hr shift.

What experience do I need?

It's the perfect volunteering role if you:

· Have some experience directly working or volunteering with vulnerable people,

· Are confident, friendly, and can think on your feet,

· Want to dedicate half a day weekly to volunteering in a frontline service.

What would I gain?

· Experience contributing to a frontline homelessness service

· Valuable experience for your C.V. and a professional reference

· All volunteers have access to our employer assistance programme, a free confidential helpline.

Travel and lunch expenses are available, and we're particularly keen to hear from people who have volunteered in a homelessness service before, or who have lived experience of homelessness.

Winter Bucket Collection

16:15 – 19:45, Wednesday 10th December 2025

3-hour shifts

Reading Station

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our Community Fundraising team who can join us at Reading for a bucket collection event in the community to help us raise money during our Winter fundraising period!

Every 11 minutes, this Winter, a family will lose their home. We provide vital services to those at risk, with our emergency helpline, housing rights campaigns, legal and emotional support.

Your role as volunteer:

• The main thing we need you to do is help us fundraise. You’ll be vital to our fundraising efforts for the Winter Appeal by holding a collection bucket for a 3-hour shift at Reading Station.
• You’ll be supported by one of our Community and Events Assistants or Lead Volunteers to help us to create an energetic and friendly atmosphere to gather donations.

Your support is not only crucial to our fundraising efforts, but it’s also opportunity to have fun, meet new people and experience some wonderful community spirit while contributing towards our mission.

What you get…

• Meet amazing volunteers and people within your community.
• Contribute to our Winter Appeal, raising vital funds towards Fight For Home.
• Develop fundraising and communication skills.
• Refund any out-of-pocket expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy.
• A certificate of appreciation for your help.
• Lots of fun!

What will you be doing?

Depending on your skills and availability, you may support with: 

• Welcoming and engaging women participants into the session
• Helping to set up and pack down the space (chairs, refreshments, sign-in sheets)
• Supporting the delivery of group activities (e.g. creative arts, health talks, mindfulness)
• Listening and signposting women to staff or support services
• Supporting guests with form-filling, where relevant
• Encouraging peer connection and reducing isolation
• Assisting with data collection, light admin or feedback forms 

You will be supported to work within WSUP’s trauma-informed and psychologically informed (TIC/PIE) approach. Lived experience is welcome but not essential. 

What are we looking for?

Skills and Qualities Needed 

• Friendly, empathetic and non-judgemental
• Able to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Comfortable working in a trauma-informed, women-only environment
• Good listening and communication skills
• Reliable, consistent and open to feedback
• Ability to work as part of a diverse team
• Commitment to inclusion, safety and empowerment of women
• Any well-being qualifications/experience that could help in delivering and developing ideas to provide to the women (not essential)

Lived experience (e.g. of homelessness, violence, migration, or mental health issues) is welcomed and respected. 

What difference will you make?

WSUP is a grassroots charity supporting people experiencing hardship and/or housing instability across Royal Borough of Greenwich. We work with people facing poverty, homelessness, substance misuse, trauma, and health inequalities. Our support is holistic, inclusive, and rooted in lived experience. 

WSUP is committed to creating safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces, particularly for women who may have experienced trauma, discrimination or marginalisation. This includes our Women Wednesday programme – a women-only community session offering practical support, creative wellbeing activities, peer connection, and access to health and housing services. 

Before you apply

This will be starting on Wednesday 5th November 2025. You can apply after this time and during the 5 months. 

If you would like to volunteer with us, please send us an email as per instructions below.

We will then send you an initial contact form, an invitation to come in to WSUP and then a final application where references will be sent for, and then a DBS check will be provided by WSUP. 

Do you have a legal or financial background with experience in project management?

Are you excited about property and development?

Do you have an innovative approach?

If so, we’d really like to hear from you!

We are working in partnership with ELM Group, a not-for-profit organisation, consisting of RLHA (Retirement Lease Housing Association) and ELM Management (the non-retirement part the business). The group owns over 40 freeholds and manages another 60 estates in the South of England. The head office is in Frimley, Surrey and employs just over 160 staff.

Established in 1971 the Group is very proud of its history and its charitable status and is looking forward to a great future.

They are seeking to recruit a Chair to join the Board for 2 terms of 3 years (6 years) in line with the National Housing Federation Code of Governance 2020.

The successful candidate will have an innovative approach, a passion for property and development, bringing either legal or financial knowledge alongside excellent project management

Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday morning of each month, (except June, August, and December). There are currently 6 members of the Board and 2 Leaseholder Board Members.

If you are someone who can demonstrate these skills and experience alongside the ability to advise and contribute to the Board, then we would like to hear from you.

For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Applications should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

£2,781 per annum plus reasonable expenses

Closing date for applications: 2nd November 2025

Community Volunteer - Sheffield

Do you want to raise some money for Shelter, while having fun along the way?

Information about the role

This role involves supporting at a range of events to help raise money and awareness to tackle the housing emergency. It’s a really flexible opportunity. Once you’re signed up, we’ll let you know about upcoming events and tasks, and you can decide which you’d like to do.

Location: Sheffield

Suggested contribution: It’s up to you! Ideally, you’d help out at least 4-5 times per year, but this is flexible.

Availability: This is a varied opportunity with events taking place at different times and on different days throughout the year, including evenings and weekends. You can choose the events that best suit your availability.

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now by clicking ‘fill in an application’ or read on more for details.

Main activities may include:

This is a flexible and diverse role. Here are some of the activities you might get involved in:

· Represent us at a range of events including, community fairs, gigs, Pride marches, sporting events and street stalls.

· Support some of our fundraising activity such as holding collection cans in public spaces or bag packing in supermarkets.

· Help us grow our movement for change by supporting petitions and raising awareness of our calls to action through social media.

· Other one-off tasks such as web-based research.

This role fights the housing emergency by raising funds that enable Shelter to provide advice and support and campaigning for change. The events you’ll be attending are also great for raising awareness of the housing emergency and how people can get involved to help tackle it.

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering.

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity.

Your skills and experience

The most important thing for this role is that you are passionate about joining our fight for home!

Supporting you

· You will be provided with an induction into your role, access to relevant learning and a copy of our volunteer handbook.

· The role, including learning and communications, are flexible, so can be tailored so they best suit your needs and preferences.

· You will be able to claim reasonable volunteering expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer policy. Where financial circumstances would be a barrier to volunteering, we may be able to offer these funds in advance.

· You will be able to access our volunteer support package, including our colleague assistance programme and Shelter’s network of mental health first aiders.

Next steps

We will then get back to you about your application. Shortlisted applicants will have a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further.

Upon offer of role, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can’t volunteer with us. We will have a conversation with you to discuss the convictions in relation to the role you have applied for. Sometimes it may limit the ways you can get involved. Please contact us if you require more information.

Winter Bucket Collection

09:45 – 18:15, Wednesday 12th November 2025

(various 3-hr shifts available)

High Street, Slough, SL1 1JS

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our Community Fundraising team who can join us at Slough for a bucket collection event in the community to help us raise money during our Winter fundraising period!

 Every 11 minutes this Winter, a family will lose their home. We provide vital services to those at risk, with our emergency helpline, housing rights campaigns, legal and emotional support.

Your role as Volunteer:

• The main thing we need you to do is help us fundraise. You’ll be vital to our fundraising efforts for the Winter Appeal by holding collection buckets at Slough High Street.
• You’ll be supported by one of our Community and Events Assistants or Lead Volunteers to help us to create an energetic and friendly atmosphere to gather donations.

Your support is not only crucial to our fundraising efforts, but it’s also opportunity to have fun, meet new people and experience some wonderful community spirit while contributing towards our mission.

What you get…

• Meet amazing volunteers and people within your community.
• Contribute to our Winter Appeal, raising vital funds towards Fight For Home.
• Develop fundraising and communication skills.
• Refund any out-of-pocket expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy.
• A certificate of appreciation for your help.
• Lots of fun!

Lead Volunteer

Winter Bucket Collection

09:30 – 18:30, Wednesday 12th November 2025

High Street, Slough, SL1 1JS

We’re looking for a lead volunteer to join our Community Fundraising team who can join us at Slough for a bucket collection event, to help us raise money during our Winter fundraising period!

Every 11 minutes this Winter, a family will lose their home. We provide vital services to those at risk, with our emergency helpline, housing rights campaigns, legal and emotional support.

The main thing we need you to do is help us lead and coordinate our bucket collection at Slough High Street. You’ll be vital to our fundraising efforts for the Winter Appeal.

You’ll support volunteers to help us to create an energetic and friendly atmosphere to gather donations. You will also be the main point of contact if any volunteers have any issues.

Your support is not only crucial to our fundraising efforts, but it’s also opportunity to have fun, meet new people and experience some wonderful community spirit while contributing towards our mission.

Skills and Experiences We're Looking For...

• Leadership skills and ability to support others in a group.
• Passionate about joining the Fight For Home.
• Feel comfortable handling cash and taking responsibility for depositing into bank.

What you get…

• Meet amazing volunteers and people within your community.
• Contribute to our Winter Appeal, raising vital funds towards Fight For Home.
• Develop fundraising and communication skills.
• Refund any out-of-pocket expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy.
• A certificate of appreciation for your help.
• Lots of fun!

Board Trustee and Chair of the People and Remuneration Committee

Responsible to:

The Board of Trustees – As a Trustee your lead responsibility will be acting on behalf of the Board in chairing the People and Remuneration Committee. You are accountable to the Board of Trustees and act on its behalf to ensure that the best interests of the charity and its stakeholders are served within relevant regulatory frameworks and standards of probity in the areas of delegated responsibility

Role Profile:

As Board Trustee and Chair of the People and Remuneration Committee, you are responsible for ensuring the delivery of our charitable objects. The Board sets out our strategic direction, upholds our beliefs and values and provides governance to the organisation by prescribing and monitoring management performance. Your lead responsibility will be in ensuring that our people strategy aligns with our mission, values, and long-term sustainability. This includes chairing the People and Remuneration Committee overseeing key areas such as executive remuneration, workforce planning, performance management, succession planning, and organisational culture.

Your leadership will guide the Board and Committee in maintaining transparency, fairness, and accountability in all people-related decisions and you will work closely with the Director of People and Programmes. In addition, you will facilitate constructive dialogue among committee members, foster a culture of informed decision-making, and ensure that governance standards are upheld. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people through a dynamic and highly respected organisation.

Specific Duties:

• To respect and promote the founding Christian principles in line with our charity’s objects.
• To be responsible for the effective and efficient conduct of committee meetings ensuring resolutions are properly put and necessary decisions made.
• To ensure the committee’s decisions are acted upon.
• To ensure that committee meetings take place at appropriate intervals as part of our annual calendar of meetings and start and finish times are agreed with other members.
• To ensure all committee members can play a full part in meetings, their contributions are timely and relevant, and appropriate standards of conduct and behaviour are maintained in accordance with the code of conduct approved by the Board.
• To work proactively with the Executive Team lead on the arrangements for meetings, including agreeing the agenda and checking minutes.
• To ensure that any decisions taken by the Committee that need Board approval are reported to the next Board meeting and lead the discussion at the Board meetings summarising the deliberations of the committee, including making clear recommendations.
• To proactively establish a constructive working relationship with and provide support to the Chair of the Board, the CEO and the Executive Team.
• To have a general understanding of legislative changes and policy developments in people-related matters.
• To ensure that the committee receives professional advice when needed, either from the Executive Team or external sources.
• To induct, support and contribute to the annual appraisal of those Board members who are members of the committee.

Additional Trustee Duties:

• Familiarising themselves with all Board papers prior to each meeting.
• Attending Board meetings (and committee meetings, as appropriate) and actively participating in the work of the Board.
• Defining and ensuring compliance with the vision, values and objectives of the charity.
• Ensuring compliance with the National Housing Federation’s Code of Governance, Regulatory Standards, Ofsted and other areas of regulation within our operating environment.
• Establishing strategy, policies and plans to achieve those objectives across the range of functions undertaken by the charity.
• Approving each year’s Budget and final accounts prior to publication.
• Establishing and overseeing a framework of delegation and systems of control.
• Monitoring the charity’s performance

Person Specification:

• A willingness to respect and promote our founding Christian principles and uphold our organisational values.
• Proven leadership experience at board or senior executive level, ideally within the not-for-profit or public sector.
• Strong understanding of governance principles, particularly in relation to people, culture, and remuneration.
• Experience in overseeing or advising on executive pay, performance management, and workforce strategy.
• Familiarity with employment law, equality, diversity, and inclusion best practices.
• An understanding of the unique challenges faced by a highly regulated not-for-profits organisation.
• Strong chairing and facilitation skills, with the ability to foster inclusive, balanced, and productive discussions.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to align people-related decisions with organisational goals and values.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and sound judgement in handling sensitive and confidential matters.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, able to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. Role profile Time commitment:
• The role is unpaid although reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
• The initial term for the position is three years.
• The Board rhythm is typically:
• Approximately four three-hour Board meetings mid-to-late afternoon over the course of the year.
• Two full day ‘away-days.’
• Travel time for meetings, as Board meetings and Board Away Days are in person at various locations across Sussex.
• Three two-hour, virtual People and Remuneration Committee meetings a year.
• Time spent to read papers and prepare for the meeting; papers are circulated one week ahead of Board and committee meetings.
• Trustees are invited and encouraged to make at least one visit to services, and attend a staff or manager forum. There are also opportunities to attend national events such as the YMCA England & Wales Youth Matters awards.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and trends to inform decision-making. Commitment to our mission, values, and social impact.
• Collaborative and respectful leadership style, promoting transparency and accountability.
• Independent and objective, with the ability to challenge constructively and support executive leadership.
• Champion of equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of people and remuneration governance.
• A professional background in HR, organisational development, or remuneration advisory is desirable.
• Previous experience chairing a committee or board in a similar context is desirable

Time Commitment:

• The role is unpaid although reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
• The initial term for the position is three years.
• The Board rhythm is typically:
  • Approximately four three-hour Board meetings mid-to-late afternoon over the course of the year.
  • Two full day ‘away-days.’
  • Travel time for meetings, as Board meetings and Board Away Days are in person at various locations across Sussex.
  • Three two-hour, virtual People and Remuneration Committee meetings a year.
  • Time spent to read papers and prepare for the meeting; papers are circulated one week ahead of Board and committee meetings.
• Trustees are invited and encouraged to make at least one visit to services, and attend a staff or manager forum. There are also opportunities to attend national events such as the YMCA England & Wales Youth Matters awards

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Volunteer Social Media Content Producer

Location: Haggerston and other SCT sites in East London

Time Commitment: Flexible

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

About Us

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

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

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

Role Overview

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

Key Responsibilities

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

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

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

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

· Repurposing existing materials into social media-friendly formats.

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

Skills & Experience

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

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

· Strong visual storytelling and writing skills.

· Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

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

What We Offer

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

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

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

· Flexible hours and a supportive, collaborative team environment.

We are working in partnership with Guildford Sunset Homes (GSH) a small, well-respected charitable trust based in Merrow, near Guildford, registered under the Communities and Societies Benefits Act of 2014, and who provide 87 social rent apartments for retired individuals of limited means from the local area. The estate features a converted Grade II listed Manor House and several purpose-built apartment blocks set within peaceful and well-maintained grounds.

GSH now seeks a new Trustee to join their friendly and dedicated Board, to work alongside a supportive team and professional estate management company, ELM Group, who employ two members of staff to take care of the day-to-day running of the Estate.

This is an exciting opportunity, where you will help guide the development and direction of a thriving retirement community, and improve the estate for their residents.

They are looking for experience in the following areas:

• Housing associations
• Property sectors
• The charity sector

What’s in it for you:

• A chance to make a positive impact in the area.
• Gain additional experience in governance, leadership, and nonprofit management
• Develop valuable skills for your career and personal growth.
• Broaden your own networks

If you can commit to attend approximately 6 board meetings a year and are passionate about giving back to the community, we would love to hear from you.

For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Applications should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

Closing date for applications: 2nd November 2025

Volunteer with Us at the Big Sleep Out 2025 

On Friday, 14th November, Off The Fence will host its Big Sleep Out at St Peter’s Church, Brighton – our largest fundraising event of the year to support those experiencing homelessness in our city through our Antifreeze programme.

We’re looking for a team of volunteers to help with hospitality at the event and event delivery to ensure it runs smoothly and we create a welcoming, supportive experience for all participants. Volunteers will play an important role in greeting, serving, supporting, and encouraging participants throughout the evening and overnight. 

You’ll be part of a fun, committed team helping make this event possible – ensuring participants are cared for and that every detail runs smoothly. 

Once you’ve completed the volunteer application and have let us know which role you’re interested in, we’ll get back to successful applicants about an interview and provide a full role description. 

This is a brilliant opportunity to take action, grow in awareness, and work alongside Off The Fence, an established local charity equipped to support those most at risk of experiencing homelessness or trapped in the cycle of poverty here in Brighton & Hove. By volunteering, you’ll play a part in creating real change in our city. 

Hospitality Roles include: 

• Greeters – welcoming and checking in participants as they arrive. 

• Servers – helping with dinner (Friday evening) or breakfast (Saturday morning). 

• Overnight Support – topping up drinks and snacks, signposting toilets, and providing a friendly presence alongside our security team. 

• Essentials Kit Packing – guiding participants in packing practical kits and writing encouragement cards for our clients. 

Event Delivery Roles Include: 

• Set-Up Team - Help unload, set up barriers, tables, signage, and prepare spaces for participants. 

• Take-Down Team - Assist with packing away equipment, signage, and tables, leaving the site clear and tidy. 

• Promotion Team - Share leaflets and digital materials with your networks to create buzz, encourage participation, and promote sponsorship opportunities. 

• Media Team - Capture photos, videos, and participant stories (with consent) to thank supporters and promote future Big Sleep Outs. 

Winter Bucket Collection

11:45 – 16:00, Saturday 6th December 2025

Oxford Station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our Community Fundraising team who can join us at a bucket collection event in the community to help us raise money during our Winter fundraising period!

The main thing we need you to do is help us fundraise. You’ll be vital to our fundraising efforts for the Winter Appeal by holding collection buckets in public spaces.

You’ll be supported by one of our Community and Events Assistants or Lead Volunteers to help us to create an energetic and friendly atmosphere to gather donations.

Your support is not only crucial to our fundraising efforts, but it’s also opportunity to have fun, meet new people and experience some wonderful community spirit while contributing towards our mission.

Winter Bucket Collection

10:45 – 18:00, Wednesday 4th December 2025

(various shifts available)

High Street, Oxford, OX1 4BX

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our Community Fundraising team who can join us at a bucket collection event in the community to help us raise money during our Winter fundraising period!

The main thing we need you to do is help us fundraise. You’ll be vital to our fundraising efforts for the Winter Appeal by holding collection buckets in public spaces.

You’ll be supported by one of our Community and Events Assistants or Lead Volunteers to help us to create an energetic and friendly atmosphere to gather donations.

We'll have three shifts available: 10:45-14:00, 14:00-17:00 or 10:45-18:00

Your support is not only crucial to our fundraising efforts, but it’s also opportunity to have fun, meet new people and experience some wonderful community spirit while contributing towards our mission.