Housing and homelessness volunteer roles

Volunteer Mentors and Befrienders 

To provide consistent, positive support to young people aged 8–25, helping them to build confidence, develop life skills, and engage in positive activities. As a Mentor/Befriender, you will be a trusted role model — listening without judgment, encouraging personal growth, and helping young people feel valued and connected.

Key Responsibilities

• Build a supportive, respectful, and trusting relationship with your matched young person.

• Offer a listening ear and friendly conversation, providing encouragement and motivation.

• Support young people to set and work towards personal goals (e.g., education, hobbies, wellbeing).

• Encourage participation in social, educational, or community activities.

• Promote positive choices and help young people develop resilience and self-esteem.

• Maintain appropriate boundaries and safeguard the welfare of the young person at all times.

• Record session notes and share updates with the Volunteer Coordinator where appropriate.

• Attend induction and ongoing training sessions.

• Participate in regular supervision meetings.

Skills & Qualities Needed

• Warm, friendly, and non-judgmental approach.

• Ability to relate to young people from diverse backgrounds.

• Good listening and communication skills.

• Patience, reliability, and commitment.

• Respect for confidentiality and safeguarding procedures.

• Willingness to learn and take part in training.

• A sense of humour and ability to have fun!

What You Will Gain

• Full induction and training in mentoring, safeguarding, and youth engagement.

• Ongoing support and supervision from experienced staff.

• Experience working with children and young people.

• The chance to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.

• Opportunities to develop new skills and enhance your CV.

Additional Information

• All volunteers must undergo an Enhanced DBS check (provided by the charity).

• References will be required.

• Expenses for travel and activities will be reimbursed.

Bring your skills. Change lives. Become a SMART CJS Trustee.

SMART CJS is a dynamic charity supporting people experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their home. We’re looking for new trustees to join our friendly and committed Board, guiding our strategic direction and ensuring we remain a strong, effective organisation.

About the role
Trustees play a vital role in the governance of SMART CJS. Working closely with our senior leadership team, you will:

• Help set the charity’s overall direction and priorities.

• Ensure we meet our legal and financial responsibilities.

• Provide insight and expertise to strengthen our services.

• Support our mission to prevent homelessness and help people rebuild their lives.

Who we’re looking for
No previous board experience is necessary, full induction and training are provided. We’re particularly keen to hear from people with skills in:

• Fundraising and income generation

• Law

• Human resources

But above all, we want trustees who:

• Are committed to our mission and values.

• Can think strategically and work well as part of a team.

• Are willing to use their skills and experience to help us grow and adapt.

Time commitment

• Four Board meetings per year (held in the evenings, usually in Bedford).

• Some email contact between meetings.

• Optional involvement in sub-committees, events, or projects if you have time.

What you’ll gain

• The chance to make a real, lasting difference for people experiencing homelessness.

• Experience in governance and strategic decision-making.

• The satisfaction of using your skills for social good.

• Being part of a passionate, welcoming team of trustees and staff.

Location
Meetings are held in Bedford, but applications from across the region are welcome.

Unify Giving CIC – UK Based

Unify Giving helps people give directly and safely to someone in need — no cash, no middlemen, just real impact. Now we’re looking for a TikTok Content Creator & Manager to help us spread the word in the UK ��

What you’ll do

• Create fun, eye-catching TikToks that show what Unify Giving is all about.

• Balance light, funny content with more serious impact stories.

• Repurpose content we already have and experiment with new trends.

• Manage posting, comments, and growth strategy on TikTok.

• Work directly with our founder, Matt, to shape ideas and grow the channel.

Why this is for you

• Minimum 5–10 hours per week, for at least 3 months.

• Great opportunity to build your portfolio in social media management.

• Work with a UK social impact cause making real change.

• Freedom to be creative — from serious storytelling to fun, trend-led videos.

Who we welcome
We don’t care about age, background, or “perfect” experience. If you love TikTok, have creative energy, and want to use your skills for good — you’ll fit right in.

�� This is your chance to grow as a content creator, while helping people experiencing homelessness get the support they need.

Unify Giving CIC – UK Based / Remote

Unify Giving is growing — and we want to launch a merch page so people can support our mission through print-on-demand products. Every item sold will help fund our work: direct, safe, trackable giving to people experiencing homelessness and domestic violence.

We’re looking for someone who knows their way around WordPress, WooCommerce and print-on-demand tools to help us make it happen.

What you’ll do

• Add and configure a merch/e-commerce page on our WordPress site.

• Integrate with a print-on-demand service (like Printful or Printify).

• Upload and format product listings, images and descriptions.

• Make sure the shop is smooth, simple and works for supporters.

• Advise on best practice for ongoing management.

Why this is for you

• Great portfolio project in web + e-commerce development.

• Work with a live UK social impact organisation.

• Minimum 5–10 hours per month, for at least 3 months.

• A chance to combine tech skills with a cause making real difference.

• Know that profits from the merch go straight back into our mission: helping individuals rebuild their lives.

Who we welcome
We don’t mind your background, age, or job status. If you’ve worked with WordPress and e-commerce tools before and want to use those skills for good, this is for you.

�� This is your chance to build something tangible that funds direct giving and creates lasting impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (5+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Marketing & Communications Expert (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Purpose: To lead GLF’s brand, public image, and outreach campaigns.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute marketing, social media, and PR strategies.

• Build brand visibility across TV, radio, digital, and print.

• Collaborate on storytelling campaigns that attract donors and partners.

• Support fundraising campaigns through brand partnerships and sponsorships.

• Mentor GLF’s in-house communications staff.

Requirements/Skills:

• Proven marketing, PR, or media background (agency or nonprofit experience preferred).

• Strong storytelling, digital strategy, and branding expertise.

• Ability to connect emotionally with audiences through campaigns.

Benefits:

• Showcase your expertise in building one of the UK’s most inspiring social brands.

• Public exposure and leadership in major awareness events.

• Creative freedom to shape messaging that impacts real lives.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

�� Volunteer with Unify Giving CIC 

We’re building a movement of people who believe giving should be simple, human and direct. Our volunteers are at the heart of that.

We don’t care about age, background, or whether you’ve got a perfect CV.
We care about people who want to be part of a team, learn, and create real impact together.

All roles are 5–10 hours a month, minimum 3 months. You’ll be supported by the Volunteer Manager and the wider Unify Giving team.

Charity Liaison Officer

Be our local connector.

You’ll build bridges between Unify Giving and grassroots charities. This means meeting people, listening to what’s needed, and helping bring them into our network.

What you’ll do:

• Visit local charities and community groups.

• Call and email to introduce Unify Giving.

• Help new partners come on board.

If you’re friendly, curious and enjoy meeting people, this is for you.

✨ Who we welcome

• No age limit. We believe good ideas and energy can come from anyone.

• Perfect if you’re out of work and want to build skills and confidence.

• A great chance to be part of a supportive team working on something meaningful.

�� If one of these roles feels like you, or like someone you know — we’d love to chat.

The Role

Our Lotus Community works alongside the City of Edinburgh Council to provide accommodation for 14 young people (aged 16-18), who are unaccompanied asylum-seekers. They come from a variety of different countries.

The community is a step towards independent living, whilst they await a decision about their ‘leave to remain’ in the country. The asylum procedure can be a long, complicated, overwhelming and challenging process. We support the young people in the best way during this stressful time (and after). They are supported by social workers and a guardianship service as well.

What will you do as a volunteer?

We are looking for highly motivated individuals who work well independently, are proactive and can get involved in community activities. You will support the residents of the community and help look after your shared spaces in the flats. Most of the residents have basic living skills, including cooking, cleaning and budgeting. We offer further support where needed.

We can also help them gain confidence and knowledge of the local area. This is to enable them to take further steps towards independence and integration in the local community. This is also with the purpose of them moving on to accommodation that better suits their needs in the future.

Depending on the season, and interests and abilities of the residents, your tasks can include:

• Being a peer mentor and staying in touch with the residents via WhatsApp
• Organise our monthly community meeting
• Organise activities, which can be walks, cycling, board games night, karaoke, tea and cake (whatever your interests) for the residents to come along.
• Reporting issues with the flat, repairs etc.
• Making sure that all rooms always have the equipment needed (cleaning products, toilet roll, hand sanitiser, condoms etc).
• Updating your (online) calendar for the week, so everyone knows when you are volunteering and not.
• Working together with your fellow volunteer(s) to organise activities and arrange rota.

What you get:

Location: You will live in a studio bedroom in the flat alongside the young residents. You will not pay for rent or bills (including internet).

Time: 20 hours per week for minimum 6 months. These are during the evening and weekends, with exception for a few hours spent in meetings and alike.

You can volunteer and work part time at the same time. You will organise your volunteering hours with the other volunteer.

We will provide support and training needed for you to engage with the tasks and young people in a safe manner. Support, supervision and team meetings are every month.

Overview

Do you enjoy cleaning and creating an organised space for customers and team members?

We are looking for stock presentation volunteers to support our Scarborough Community Furniture Store in keeping it clean, tidy and presentable, making it a welcoming and pleasant space for customers, staff, and fellow volunteers.

We are currently looking for volunteers to assist on a Monday, Friday and Saturday. This is a flexible role designed to meet you where you're at and you will be joining a supportive charity team.

Responsibilities of the Role:

• Cleaning the shop floor and back-office areas, including:
• Vacuuming
• Sweeping
• Mopping
• Emptying and cleaning bins
• Cleaning toilets and replenishing toiletries
• General tidying and cleaning such as dusting and wiping
• Checking stock levels of cleaning equipment
• Reporting any defects, hazards, or breakages throughout the shop
• Spot cleaning and tidying, such as spills

Skills required:

• You will need to communicate well with the rest of the store team
• You will need to be a positive, helpful and friendly representative of Community Stores, as when working in the store you are likely to interact with a variety of customers

What you’ll get from us:

• Full training in health and safety and role specific skills
• Support and mentorship from a member of our team
• Supporting people in your local community who need it most as part of a supportive team
• Opportunities for training and development - in the past this has included First Aid & PAT Testing training sessions
• Relevant PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

We are proud to offer our volunteers training and development opportunities and work with a variety of volunteers from a range of backgrounds - whether you have lots of experience and just want to lend a helping hand, or are looking to build your confidence and gain experience and skills, we will meet you where you are at.

What we expect from you:

• A minimum time commitment of 3 hours per week
• Being punctual, reliable, and ready to help as part of the team
• We are currently looking for volunteers on MONDAY, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY

Who this role would suit:

• Those looking to gain skills and experience in cleaning & housekeeping
• Those with a background in cleaning and housekeeping looking to share these skills as part of a voluntary role
• Anybody willing to learn, support, and be part of the CFS team

Volunteer: “I wanted to take on a volunteering opportunity to gain confidence and learn new skills and CFS has helped me achieve that”

Replenishment and Merchandising Volunteer  - We have multiple Volunteer Opportunities in Acorns Children's Hospice Superstore in Harborne

The Role 

To help us to continue to provide the care that we do, we are looking for fun and enthusiastic volunteers to join us in our Harborne Superstore. Our shops are exciting and dynamic, with no two days being the same. From our walk-in customers, to receiving donations, and everything in between.

How much time will it take? 

Our shop is open Monday to Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sundays 10am to 4pm. You can volunteer the hours that suit you, but it would be great if you could support in the shop for at least 3 hours a week.

Why volunteer at Acorns? 

• To help a local charity
• To make a difference in your local community
• To connect with like minded people and make new friends
• Boost your CV
• Opportunities to progress to other roles
• All training will be provided

Am I right for the job?

For this role, you'll need to:

• Be welcoming and friendly
• Have a good eye for merchandising
• Be a team player that thinks of others
• Be sensitive to the needs of our customers/donators

Full training will be providedhe

Overview

Do you enjoy helping customers and being a friendly face?

We are looking for volunteers to support the Scarborough Community Furniture Store with day-to-day customer service, including helping with inquiries, assisting shoppers and helping collect donations.

We are currently looking for volunteers to assist on a Monday, Friday and Saturday. This is a flexible role designed to meet you where you're at and you will be joining a supportive charity team.

Responsibilities of the Role:

• Greeting customers in a friendly, helpful manner, offering support and assistance to customers in store and providing information about our services
• Operating the till when customers purchase items
• Assisting when people are dropping off donated items

Skills Required:

• You will need to be comfortable and prepared to interact with a wide range of customers
• Being a positive, helpful, and polite representative of the store to customers
• You do not need any specific skills, all training will be provided

What you’ll get from us:

• Full training in health and safety and role specific skills
• Support and mentorship from a member of our team
• Supporting people in your local community who need it most as part of a supportive team
• Opportunities for training and development - in the past this has included First Aid & PAT Testing training sessions
• Relevant PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

We are proud to offer our volunteers training and development opportunities and work with a variety of volunteers from a range of backgrounds - whether you have lots of experience and just want to lend a helping hand, or are looking to build your confidence and gain experience and skills, we will meet you where you are at.

What we expect from you:

• A minimum time commitment of 3 hours per week
• Being punctual, reliable, and ready to help as part of the team
• We are currently looking for volunteers on Monday, Friday and Saturday

Who this role would suit:

• Those looking to gain skills and experience in customer service and sales
• Those with a background in customer service, retail or sales work, looking to contribute these skills as part of a voluntary role
• Anybody willing to learn, support, and be part of the store team

Volunteer: “I cannot express my gratitude enough for the positive impact this volunteering post has had on me. I love coming in and working as part of the team. I am always made to feel valued and as such, work hard to do as much as I can to help the store, the customers and the other team members working there."

When: Saturday 8th November 2025

Role Details: 

Join us for a wonderful evening of music at Ralli Hall in Hove, where the Brighton & Hove Concert Orchestra will perform a programme of film and theatre favourites with their 50-piece orchestra. 

We’re looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers to help collect donations before and after the concert using both donation buckets and card machines. 

Whether you're looking to support a great cause, meet new people, or gain experience for your CV, we’d love to have you on board. No previous experience is necessary – just a positive attitude and a willingness to get involved. 

Availability: Flexible shifts available between 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM 
Location: Ralli Hall, Denmark Villas, Hove, BN3 3TH 
Supervised by: Community and Events Assistant 

Unify Giving CIC – UK Based

Unify Giving is building more than just a platform — we’re building a movement around tech for good and social impact. We need a Community Builder to help us connect and grow that movement both inside and outside the organisation.

What you’ll do

• Support our volunteers: keep in touch, share updates, and make sure people feel connected and valued.

• Spot social impact leaders on LinkedIn, Slack, Discord and beyond — and invite them into our Tech for Good Unify Giving channel.

• Grow our community: help us build an online space where people working in social impact and innovation can connect, share, and support each other.

• Create opportunities for conversation: organise community calls, and help set up a podcast with our founder, Matt, interviewing other Tech for Good founders and innovators.

Why this is for you

• A chance to be right at the centre of the UK’s growing Tech for Good community.

• Build your skills in community management, partnerships, and social impact networking.

• Minimum 5–10 hours per week, for at least 3 months.

• A role with variety: part people, part digital, part creativity.

Who we welcome
No age limits, no “perfect CV” required. If you’re passionate about social impact and love bringing people together — online and offline — this could be the challenge for you.

�� If you’ve ever wanted to build a community from scratch, this is your chance to do it while making real impact.

When: Saturday 8th November 2025

Role Details: 

Join us for a wonderful evening of music at Ralli Hall in Hove, where the Brighton & Hove Concert Orchestra will perform a programme of film and theatre favourites with their 50-piece orchestra. 

We’re looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers to help collect donations before and after the concert using both donation buckets and card machines. 

Whether you're looking to support a great cause, meet new people, or gain experience for your CV, we’d love to have you on board. No previous experience is necessary – just a positive attitude and a willingness to get involved.

Availability: Flexible shifts available between 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM 
Location: Ralli Hall, Denmark Villas, Hove, BN3 3TH 
Supervised by: Community and Events Assistant