Trainer volunteer volunteer roles

VOLUNTEER ROLE: TRAINERS

Help Build a Skilled, Confident Volunteer Force That’s Changing Men’s Lives

MINDSET isn’t just a charity. It’s a movement. A brotherhood. A mission to redefine what strength looks like for men across England.

We speak to men in a way that feels real — through action, honesty, challenge, and connection. No jargon. No judgment. No shame. Just real conversations, real growth, and real change.

But none of that happens without one thing: A volunteer team that is skilled, confident, supported, and ready.

That’s where you come in.

We’re looking for Volunteer Trainers who can help equip our team with the tools they need to support men safely, compassionately, and effectively.

If you’re someone with training experience — especially in mental health, coaching, safeguarding, or behaviour management — and you want to use your skills to change lives, this role is for you.

Why This Role Matters

Every conversation a volunteer has… Every workshop they support… Every man they help feel seen, heard, and valued…

It all depends on the training they receive.

Your work will help ensure:

• Volunteers feel confident and capable

• Men receive safe, high‑quality support

• Our services remain consistent, ethical, and impactful

• The movement grows with strong foundations

• Every volunteer feels part of something bigger

This isn’t just training. This is empowerment. This is safety. This is impact.

What You’ll Lead

As a Volunteer Trainer, you will help deliver training in areas such as:

• Mental Health First Aid

• Life Coaching skills

• First Aid

• Safeguarding & risk awareness

• Dealing with challenging behaviour

• Motivational Interviewing techniques

• Communication & active listening

• Boundaries, ethics, and safe practice

• Group facilitation skills

• Self‑care and resilience for volunteers

You’ll work with our Head of HR & Volunteering and Head of Services to:

• Deliver engaging, practical training sessions

• Help design new training modules and resources

• Support volunteers as they grow in confidence and skill

• Ensure our training reflects our culture code and values

• Build a learning environment rooted in honesty, courage, and brotherhood

You’ll be shaping the people who shape the movement.

Who We’re Looking For

• Experience delivering training or workshops

• Qualifications or skills in one or more key areas (MHFA, coaching, safeguarding, etc.)

• A passion for men’s wellbeing and preventative mental health

• Strong communication and facilitation skills

• A belief in action‑based, stigma‑free approaches

• Emotional intelligence and a people‑first mindset

• A desire to help volunteers feel confident, capable, and supported

If you’ve ever thought, “I want to use my skills to help others grow,” then you already understand the heart of this role.

What You’ll Be Part Of

MINDSET is building:

• Peer‑led support groups across England

• Action‑based wellbeing programmes

• Workshops that build resilience, confidence, and emotional strength

• Talk Zones in barbershops, gyms, and workplaces

• A digital platform for mental fitness and personal growth

• A national movement that redefines strength, vulnerability, and brotherhood

Your training will help power every part of this movement.

What You’ll Gain

This is a volunteer role — but the impact is real and lasting.

You’ll gain:

• Experience delivering training within a national charity

• A chance to shape the skills and confidence of an entire volunteer force

• A powerful portfolio in wellbeing, safeguarding, and personal development

• A supportive team that feels like a brotherhood

• A role that grows with you as the movement expands

• The knowledge that your work helped change — and even save — lives

If This Mission Speaks to You… Step Forward.

Men need us. Men need you. And together, we can build something powerful — something that helps men not just survive, but thrive.

Apply now. Join the movement. Reset the mindset — for others, and for yourself.

Trailblazers’ mission is to reduce re-offending and inspire new futures. Your support will help a young man to reconnect with his community, friends and loved ones, go into education, training and employment, and give a person a sense of hope for the future.

Trailblazers has been providing mentoring services to people in prison since 1998 with ultimate aim to reduce re-offending. We provide support to men between the age of 18 - 35 in custody who have 6 months left of their prison sentence, and then 'through the gate' into their own community for up to 12 months. The Education, Training & Employment (ETE) team supports our mentees in custody to break down barriers to employability. Post-release, this continues by supporting mentees to gain meaningful and career changing roles in sector specific industries such as Construction, Engineering, Catering & Hospitality or the Self-Employment route. 

The ETE team are looking to build a team of volunteers to work with mentees in the community and to shape the existing ETE service in the Thames Valley area. We are looking for volunteer mentors who can commit for up to 12 months and give a few hours a week to support men to change their life by being inspirational role models, helping with goal setting and supporting their mentee to access ETE opportunities and ultimately gain meaningful employment. Mentoring sessions will be 1:1, take place weekly and can be done remotely by telephone or online. These sessions will last approximately one hour, but some time should also be given to liaising with Trailblazers staff and researching relevant opportunities. 

Induction training is provided, out of pocket expenses covered, a mobile phone is provided to protect your identity, a Trailblazers T-shirt and lanyard are provided, DBS costs are covered, as well as regular reflective practice sessions to support you within your role. 

We are actively looking for people to join our mentoring community with lived experience of the criminal justice system, under represented groups from BAME community, creative arts, business skills, wellbeing - whatever your skills and background we are open to hear from you to support our diverse group of men. 

Trailblazers are looking for Volunteer Mentors who are:

• Empathetic with a positive outlook and manner.
• Able to help others without judgement or discrimination.
• Excellent communicators with a sense of humour.
• Well organised, can prioritise and multi-task.
• Reliable and able to commit to the role for up to 12 months providing weekly ETE sessions remotely either by telephone or via Zoom / MS Team digital platforms.
• Have skills and experience in supporting those who are disadvantaged into education, training and employment (ETE).
• Able to work independently with the ability to prioritise and manage your own workload with minimal supervision taking a flexible and creative approach to the demands of the post.
• Able to demonstrate sensitivity to other cultures, working with people from other backgrounds and demonstrate a commitment to equal opportunities.
• Live within a 30 mile radius of Bicester.

The Training Officer ensures volunteers receive engaging, high-quality training to prepare them for events. You’ll organise sessions, secure tutors and spaces, encourage attendance, and gather feedback to improve future training. This role is vital for volunteer development and maintaining Make a Smile’s professional standards.

Job Title: Specialist: Talent Enablement
Location: Remote (UK-based)
Department: People & Culture
Reports To: Manager: Talent Enablement

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a trailblazing organisation dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. Rooted in a People First philosophy, we empower individuals and teams to drive systemic change through equitable learning and growth opportunities. 

Role Overview

As the Specialist: Talent Enablement, you will lead the design and delivery of impactful learning programs that align with QuilomboUK’s mission and strategic goals. You’ll develop leadership curricula, create engaging instructional materials, oversee induction training, and continuously refine L&D initiatives based on feedback and data. This role is ideal for a creative, data-driven professional passionate about fostering inclusive leadership and equipping teams with the skills to advance social justice.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership Development & Training

• Design and implement leadership training curricula, workshops, and coaching programs that cultivate inclusive, equitable, and socially conscious leaders.

• Partner with senior leaders to identify skill gaps and align learning and development (L&D) strategies with organisational objectives.

• Facilitate dynamic workshops on topics like anti-bias leadership, conflict resolution, and change management.

Instructional Design & Content Development

• Create engaging, accessible learning materials, including e-learning modules, facilitator guides, videos, and assessments, using tools like Articulate 360 or Adobe Captivate.

• Embed D&I principles and social justice themes into all content, ensuring cultural relevance and representation.

• Develop microlearning resources and toolkits to support continuous, self-directed learning in a remote environment.

AI-Enhanced Instructional Design

• Using various platforms, create dynamic, AI-generated content (e.g., simulations, scenario-based learning), and adaptive e-learning modules.

• Build AI-driven assessments and feedback loops to measure knowledge retention and behavioural change.

Onboarding & Integration

• Lead the design and delivery of induction programs that immerse new hires in QuilomboUK’s mission, values, and D&I commitments.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure onboarding content reflects role-specific and cultural integration needs.

• Monitor new hire feedback to refine onboarding experiences and reduce time-to-productivity.

Training Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Measure training effectiveness using key performance indicators (KPIs) such as engagement rates, knowledge retention, and behavioural change.

• Analyse feedback surveys, LMS data, and performance metrics to identify gaps and iterate on content.

• Stay ahead of L&D trends (e.g., gamification, AI-driven learning) to innovate QuilomboUK’s programs.

D&I Integration

• Ensure all learning initiatives prioritise equity, cultural competence, and trauma-informed approaches.

• Partner with ERG (Employee Resource Group) leaders to co-create programs that address systemic inequities.

• Advocate for accessible learning design, including accommodations for neurodiverse individuals and those with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years in L&D, instructional design, or leadership development, ideally within mission-driven or D&I-focused organisations, with hands-on experience using AI tools.

• Skills:

  • Expertise in e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate, Canva) and LMS platforms.

  • Strong facilitation and storytelling skills for remote and hybrid audiences.

  • Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI) to measure program impact.

  • Proficiency in prompt engineering for generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) to create scalable content.

• Knowledge:

  • Deep understanding of adult learning theories, inclusive pedagogy, and social justice frameworks.

  • Familiarity with UK compliance standards related to workplace training.

  • Understanding of ethical AI frameworks, algorithmic bias mitigation, and GDPR-compliant AI use in HR.

  • Familiarity with AI and how it can amplify (or hinder) equitable learning outcomes.

  •  

• Alignment: Passionate about QuilomboUK’s mission and the role of L&D in driving equitable change.

Personal Attributes

• A visionary thinker who balances creativity with analytical rigour.

• Collaborative bridge-builder who engages stakeholders at all levels.

• Adaptive and empathetic, with a knack for simplifying complex concepts.

• Committed to lifelong learning and amplifying underrepresented voices.

Job Title: Specialist: Talent Enablement
Location: Remote (UK-based)
Department: People & Culture
Reports To: Manager: Talent Enablement

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a trailblazing organisation dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. Rooted in a People First philosophy, we empower individuals and teams to drive systemic change through equitable learning and growth opportunities. 

Role Overview

As the Specialist: Talent Enablement, you will lead the design and delivery of impactful learning programs that align with QuilomboUK’s mission and strategic goals. You’ll develop leadership curricula, create engaging instructional materials, oversee induction training, and continuously refine L&D initiatives based on feedback and data. This role is ideal for a creative, data-driven professional passionate about fostering inclusive leadership and equipping teams with the skills to advance social justice.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership Development & Training

• Design and implement leadership training curricula, workshops, and coaching programs that cultivate inclusive, equitable, and socially conscious leaders.

• Partner with senior leaders to identify skill gaps and align learning and development (L&D) strategies with organisational objectives.

• Facilitate dynamic workshops on topics like anti-bias leadership, conflict resolution, and change management.

Instructional Design & Content Development

• Create engaging, accessible learning materials, including e-learning modules, facilitator guides, videos, and assessments, using tools like Articulate 360 or Adobe Captivate.

• Embed D&I principles and social justice themes into all content, ensuring cultural relevance and representation.

• Develop microlearning resources and toolkits to support continuous, self-directed learning in a remote environment.

AI-Enhanced Instructional Design

• Using various platforms, create dynamic, AI-generated content (e.g., simulations, scenario-based learning), and adaptive e-learning modules.

• Build AI-driven assessments and feedback loops to measure knowledge retention and behavioural change.

Onboarding & Integration

• Lead the design and delivery of induction programs that immerse new hires in QuilomboUK’s mission, values, and D&I commitments.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure onboarding content reflects role-specific and cultural integration needs.

• Monitor new hire feedback to refine onboarding experiences and reduce time-to-productivity.

Training Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Measure training effectiveness using key performance indicators (KPIs) such as engagement rates, knowledge retention, and behavioural change.

• Analyse feedback surveys, LMS data, and performance metrics to identify gaps and iterate on content.

• Stay ahead of L&D trends (e.g., gamification, AI-driven learning) to innovate QuilomboUK’s programs.

D&I Integration

• Ensure all learning initiatives prioritise equity, cultural competence, and trauma-informed approaches.

• Partner with ERG (Employee Resource Group) leaders to co-create programs that address systemic inequities.

• Advocate for accessible learning design, including accommodations for neurodiverse individuals and those with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years in L&D, instructional design, or leadership development, ideally within mission-driven or D&I-focused organisations, with hands-on experience using AI tools.

• Skills:

  • Expertise in e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate, Canva) and LMS platforms.

  • Strong facilitation and storytelling skills for remote and hybrid audiences.

  • Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI) to measure program impact.

  • Proficiency in prompt engineering for generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) to create scalable content.

• Knowledge:

  • Deep understanding of adult learning theories, inclusive pedagogy, and social justice frameworks.

  • Familiarity with UK compliance standards related to workplace training.

  • Understanding of ethical AI frameworks, algorithmic bias mitigation, and GDPR-compliant AI use in HR.

  • Familiarity with AI and how it can amplify (or hinder) equitable learning outcomes.

  •  

• Alignment: Passionate about QuilomboUK’s mission and the role of L&D in driving equitable change.

Personal Attributes

• A visionary thinker who balances creativity with analytical rigour.

• Collaborative bridge-builder who engages stakeholders at all levels.

• Adaptive and empathetic, with a knack for simplifying complex concepts.

• Committed to lifelong learning and amplifying underrepresented voices.

At St John Ambulance we are looking to embed ourselves within our communities, delivering support which is tailored to the needs of those communities whilst providing a positive experience for our Volunteers.

We need leaders who are passionate about making a difference in their communities, who care about helping and developing others, who will lead and inspire a volunteer movement across a geographical area to deliver Community First Aid, Community Education and Community Fundraising as well as develop our offering for young people. Through leading a team of Volunteer leaders, you will drive excellence in delivery, develop an inclusive and diverse volunteering experience for new and current volunteers, and help navigate through change to build a bigger and better St John Ambulance.

As a member of our network leadership team, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride through supporting a team and our volunteers to deliver our essential services. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation.

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Volunteers would be expected to attend training for the role both online and in person, to attend regularly network weekly meetings to enable them to keep their skills up to date.

As the Network Training Lead you will be responsible for creating and implement an effective Network training plan, which clearly meets the needs of the Network and of St John Ambulance. Preference is for a candidate who maybe from a HCP background and is a trainer by profession.

If you are successful you will need to undertake relevant training for the role, details of which will be discussed after you have been appointed.

• Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/05/2026
• Interviews will take place - Date, time and location to be advised
• Inductions and training or this role will take place - Date, time and location to be advised

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Mountain Training England is recruiting for four non-executive Trustees - two independent trustees and two from the adventure sector.

These opportunities are for people with suitable skills and experience to take up a key leadership role.

For full details of the posts, the requirements and how to apply, please see the recruitment information pack on our website..

• Applications are welcomed after 23rd March 2026
• Closing date: 20th April 2026
• Interviews will be held online on 5th and 6th May 2026
• Induction to role and organisation in May/June 2026
• Successful candidates to attend first Board meeting in May 2026

A webinar for interested applicants will be held on the evening of 14th  April 2026 at 7pm.

At St John Ambulance we are looking to embed ourselves within our communities, delivering support which is tailored to the needs of those communities whilst providing a positive experience for our Volunteers.

We need leaders who are passionate about making a difference in their communities, who care about helping and developing others, who will lead and inspire a volunteer movement across a geographical area to deliver Community First Aid, Community Education and Community Fundraising as well as develop our offering for young people. Through leading a team of Volunteer leaders, you will drive excellence in delivery, develop an inclusive and diverse volunteering experience for new and current volunteers, and help navigate through change to build a bigger and better St John Ambulance.

As a member of our network leadership team, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride through supporting a team and our volunteers to deliver our essential services. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation.

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Volunteers would be expected to attend training for the role both online and in person, to attend regularly network weekly meetings to enable them to keep their skills up to date.

If you are successful you will need to undertake relevant training for the role, details of which will be discussed after you have been appointed.

• Closing date for these opportunities is: 20/05/2026
• Interviews will take place between Date, time and location to be advised
• Inductions and training or this role will take place between Date, time and location to be advised

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

About us: 

H4All is working to advance the health and wellbeing of residents in the London Borough of Hillingdon.

This is done through our Community Champions programme, which is an initiative made up of organisations and local volunteers who promote positive wellbeing messaging and share healthcare information.

Who are we looking for? 

We are looking for committed volunteers who want to combine their passion for coaching and public health.  As a Wellbeing Coach Volunteer, you’ll be supporting a community-led programme by working with clients (Punjabi women) with Type 2 diabetes to help them set goals. 

This is a meaningful opportunity to reduce health and inequalities in Hillingdon, while gaining hands-on experience and benefiting from free training and support.    

Key Responsibilities 

• Attend sessions with a client (30 minutes) over a period of 6 months.

• Setting goals, developing an action plan and supporting clients to achieve goals

• Be able to listen non-judgmentally and communicate effectively

• Signposting client to relevant organisations, activities and support

• Give regular updates to the Health and Wellbeing Programme Officer

Benefits for you: 

• Free, specialised training and mentoring provided, enhancing personal and professional skills. 

• Hands-on experience in wellbeing coaching. 

• Networking opportunities with healthcare professionals, community organisations and other volunteers. 

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

Training and support given: 

Mandatory training:  

•  Online Mental Health courses 

• NHS blood pressure testing

• Diabetes online training 

• Wellbeing Coach training (ongoing) 

Throughout your time volunteering with us, there will be additional online and in-person training that will be offered (depending on interest and projects we are running).

Expenses: 

We can provide expenses for travel and parking at events or training.

Skills and attributes required: 

• Ability to speak Punjabi

• Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental attitude.

• Effective communicator and active listener.

• Respectful of confidentiality and procedures.

• Reliable and committed.

• Empathetic and understanding of others’ cultures, beliefs and backgrounds.

Desirable:

• Previous qualifications or experience in Coaching would be highly beneficial but is not needed.

Reporting to: Health and Wellbeing Programme Officer

Commitment required: 

• Full induction and Mandatory online courses, as well as Blood pressure checks training before starting your volunteering. 

• Attend relevant training when offered. 

• We ask for a commitment of 6 months due to free training and individual support/development offered to our volunteers. In addition, you will be supporting clients on a one-on-one basis.

• You’ll be working with a client over a period of 6 months, and meet them at Townfield Doctors Surgery for six 30-minute sessions to track their progress.

Documents Required: 

• In your application form, you will be asked for 2 references who have known you for at least a year. They can be from a professional, a friend, a support worker etc.

• A basic DBS check is required for public-facing roles.

To apply for this role: 

A H4ALL application form must be completed. You can email us or visit our website to get an application form.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.

Would you like to help tackle loneliness, one conversation at a time?

Loneliness and isolation can have devastating effects on a person’s mental and physical health. We are a registered charity providing a pathway of support to alleviate the hurt and distress, and the impact on mental and physical health, caused by loneliness and social isolation. 

The aim of face-to-face Individual Support is to provide in-person supportive social contact for people who are hurt by loneliness.

Volunteers support Friends (people who use our services) on a one-to-one basis. After completing training, volunteers will be linked with a Friend who they will phone for around one hour every two weeks. This is arranged at a mutually convenient time. 

We ask volunteers to think of this as a longer term volunteer role due to the training and time we take in order to give our volunteers, and Friends, the very best service. You will also need to consider occasional time spent in training for your role and for continuous development. 

For all our roles:

Due to our Safeguarding regulations, unfortunately we are only able to accept applications from UK residents. 

Enhanced DBS checks for working with vulnerable adults (formerly called criminal records bureau checks)  which we will organise (no cost to this) and two references are required.

For any roles involving driving Archway Friends, we will need to see evidence of insurance and driving license as well as MOT and tax documents for the vehicle to be used.

We will happily cover out of pocket expenses (eg mileage or costs for coffee out with Archway Friend).

We provide training relevant to the roles as well as ongoing supervision, guidance and support for all volunteers.

About Kith & Kids
We provide activities, opportunities, information and support for people with a learning disability or autism, their parents and siblings.
For all our projects and activities we are dependent on volunteers.

Our Summer Camp
Wed 17th - Sun 21st June and/or Wed 1st - Sun 5th July

We are currently looking for energetic and enthusiastic volunteers to join us on our action-packed residential Summer Camp. On the camp you will be supporting one of our members with a disability to have a holiday they won’t forget.

What you'll do

On the camp you and a fellow co-volunteers will support one of our members with a learning disability or autism for the 5 days. You’ll support and encourage them to take part in lots of exciting activities such as campfires, treasure trails, swimming, games nights, day trips to the seaside and much more. You’ll also help our members with their day-to-day routines and preparing our meals.

Not only is it five days full of fun and games for you and our members, but you will also play a vital part in supporting them to develop their social skills in a day-to-day environment and of course, to enjoy a fantastic holiday!

Come along and get involved!

Male volunteers especially welcome (we need more)!!

Requirements

What you need
You do not need experience. Full disability awareness training will be provided before you begin volunteering with us.
The only requirements we ask of you are enthusiasm, energy and to be open-minded.
Minimum age for volunteers is 18.

How much time?
The Camp runs for five days, four nights. The dates are Wed 17th - Sun 21st June and/or Wed 1st - Sun 5th July.

The camp starts and finishes in Tottenham, North London.

We can offer you
We can reimburse your travel expenses for your training days. All meals, transportation and accommodation are provided during the camp.
We'll also provide excellent training before the camp, and lots of helpful support throughout.

By volunteering on our camp, you'll also:

• Use and develop your skills
• Learn something new, get involved in fun activities with others
• Increase your confidence
• Meet new people and make friends
• Gain experience for (other) work
• Give something back to the community
• Do something fun and satisfying in your spare time
• Challenge yourself
   

What about training?
Volunteers must attend in-person training and complete a free DBS check before you begin volunteering.

This is a great opportunity to get to know everyone at Kith & Kids: your fellow volunteers, some of our members you will be working with, and gives the opportunity to develop some new skills and expand your knowledge in our workshops.

Topics we cover include:

• Communication
• Autism
• Supporting emotions
• Safeguarding
• Creativity & Participation
• Epilepsy
   

When do I need to come?
We’ll be meeting individual volunteers online from mid-January.

We'll be running face-to-face training in north London. Training starts from 15th February with other date options.

Training will take place in North London – once we have met you online for a chat, we will send you confirmation of our training venue details. 

About Kith & Kids
We provide activities, opportunities, information, and support for people with a learning disability or autism, their parents, and siblings.
For all our projects and activities we are dependent on volunteers.

Our Employability Project
10am to 3pm, Monday and/or Friday during term-time

Our Employment & Life Skills Project (ELSP) helps adults with learning disabilities or autism to access further education, work experience and visits to mainstream community opportunities. 

What you’ll do
You’ll act as a mentor to the members of the group.  You’ll be helping the group(s) develop a range of life skills, things that many of us take for granted.  These include Maths and English skills, independent living, the use of public transport, social skills and even the sourcing of employment. 

For the people in these groups, these things can be very difficult to develop and achieve without regular support. Through regular support and meetings, members and volunteers develop greater trust, skills, and confidence together.

Come along and get involved!

Requirements

What you need
You do not need experience. Full disability awareness training will be provided before you begin volunteering with us.
The only requirements we ask of you are enthusiasm, energy and to be open-minded.
Minimum age for volunteers is 20.

How much time?
The project runs from 10am to 3pm, Mondays and/or Fridays during term-time.
Everyone gets the most out of the project if you come every week for at least a term as you'll build a close relationship with the members you'll have been supporting and will create the most impact.

What we can offer you
ELSP represents a fantastic opportunity for you to share your knowledge and experience built up through a lifetime to a group that is continuing to develop and achieve their targets.

We’ll reimburse your travel expenses and will provide excellent training and lots of helpful support.

By volunteering on our project you'll also:

• Use and develop your skills: time-management, working within a team, problem-solving and adaptability.
• Learn something new, get involved in fun activities with others.
• Increase your confidence.
• Meet like-minded people and make friends.
• Gain experience for (other) work
• Give something back to the community.
• Do something fun and satisfying in your spare time
• Challenge yourself. 

What about training?
Volunteers must attend training and complete a free DBS check before you begin volunteering.

This is a great opportunity to get to know everyone at Kith & Kids: your fellow volunteers, some of our members you will be working with, and also gives the opportunity to develop some new skills and expand your knowledge in our workshops.

Topics we cover include:

• Autism
• Safeguarding
• Creativity & Participation
• Negotiation & Boundaries
   

When do I need to come?

Volunteers must attend training and complete a DBS check before taking part.

We'll be running face-to-face training in north London starting on the 15th February with lots of other dates to choose from.

In the meantime, we'll be meeting volunteers online from mid-January.

Training will take place in North London – once we have met you online for a chat, we will send you confirmation of our training venue details.

Just sign up and you'll receive details of what to do next.