It volunteer volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you enjoy organising? Would you like to play a key role in making sure things get done!
Our volunteer administrators are instrumental to all the work that we do across Hestia. You will have the opportunity to support staff with a wide range of desk-based and administrative tasks. These behind-the-scenes roles provide essential support in ensuring that those who we work with access the support they require to rebuild their lives beyond crisis.
What you will be doing
- To support with administration, texting and emailing information to service users, volunteers, and staff
- Support with updating and inputting data into spreadsheets
- Support with making phone calls to follow up and gather needed information.
The skills you need
- Good communication skills
- Good organisation and administrative skills
- Able to maintain good working relationships
- Basic IT skills, comfortable using spreadsheets and emailing
What's in it for you
- Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
- Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
- Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun
We deliver services across London as well as campaign and advocate nationally on the issues that affect the people we work with.



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
At RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, our charity shops are looking for friendly, local volunteers to join our team and help make our shops in Chesham and Burnham 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. (Training is provided but if you are not comfortable using the till, please get in touch because we have plenty of other tasks that do not involve the till).
- 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, local 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, preferably 8 hours per week.
- Good communication skills 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:
- Online induction - you’ll need to complete an online induction, you will need basic IT skills and access to a computer. If you are not able to use IT, we do have a paper-based induction as an alternative.
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.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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.
Mind Retail are a network of over 170 Mind charity shops across England and Wales.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,
About VoiceAbility
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.
We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.
Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility
Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!
We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!
Support Session Volunteer
You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities. Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis. The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual.
As a support session volunteer, you might:
- help people have their say when it matters most
- Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
- help people to make complaints and use local services
All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00. You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.
Safeguarding Commitment Statement
VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.
ED&I Statement
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.
VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.
To find out more click “Apply Now”.
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