Youth development volunteer volunteer volunteer roles
Organisation: Manchester Young Lives
Locations: MYL Adventure Playgrounds (Wythenshawe, Moss Side, and Ardwick)
Time Commitment: Minimum one evening per week (3hrs)
Reporting to: Play and Youth Manager
Main contact: children, young people, staff/volunteers, parents/carers, partner agencies
We have several volunteering opportunities across our programmes.
- Play sessions: 4pm and 6pm (ages 6 to 13 years)
- Youth sessions: 6:30pm–8:30pm (ages 11 to 18 years
- Holiday playschemes: 12pm to 4pm (school holidays)
About the Charity
Manchester Young Lives is a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting children and young people aged 6–18years to develop confidence, wellbeing, and positive life skills. We provide safe, inclusive spaces where children and young people can play, learn, socialise, volunteer, grow and learn life skills through the power of play and youth work approaches.
Main purpose of the role
The Volunteer Play and Youth Worker will work both indoors and outdoors as a part of the team to support the delivery of play-based and youth activities for children and young people aged 6 to 18 years. Working alongside staff and other volunteers, the role helps create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment that promotes fun, learning, social and personal development.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the preparation and running of play and youth sessions to provide a varied, safe and stimulating environment in both indoor and outdoor settings.
- Help create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants
- Build positive, age-appropriate relationships with children and young people
- Encourage participation, teamwork, creativity, and positive behaviour
- Support children and young people with a wide range of needs, abilities, and backgrounds
- Assist with setting up, organising, and tidying activity spaces and equipment
- Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to ensure sessions run smoothly
- Adhere to MYL policies and procedures in particular safeguarding, Health and safety, confidentiality, equality, diversity and inclusion.
Skills and Experience
Essential
- A genuine interest in working with children and young people aged 6–18 years
- Friendly, reliable, and approachable
- Ability to work well as part of a team
- Good communication and listening skills
Desirable
- Experience working with children or young people (voluntary or paid)
- Understanding of play work, youth work, or community-based work
- Creative, sporting, or practical skills to support activities
- Basic awareness of safeguarding and child protection
Personal Qualities
- Enthusiastic and positive
- Patient, caring, and supportive
- Respectful of diversity and inclusion
- Willing to learn and follow guidance
Training and Support
- Full induction into the charity and its services
- Volunteer training programme provided
- Ongoing support and supervision
What You’ll Gain
- Opportunities to develop skills and gain experience in play and youth work
- Work experience and training opportunities
- Hands-on experience working with children and young people
- The opportunity to make a real difference in young people’s lives
- A volunteer reference after an agreed period (usually 6 months)
Manchester Young Lives is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The highest priority is given to following guidance and regulations to safeguard children and young people.
Volunteers are required to undergo safer recruitment checks including an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
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 live in Wales and want to gain valuable skills, have new experiences, and support vulnerable people?
We are offering 2 young people aged 18-25 the opportunity to volunteer with the Portuguese Red Cross in Braga, Portugal. Next placement dates are planned for: 5th January - end of August 2026.
You will be working on a range of projects, which will give you the chance to explore the different kinds of social action that the Portuguese Red Cross undertake in Braga.
Typical tasks may involve:
- Supporting the charity shop, Ponto Vermelho, with social media, sorting donations and organising the displays.
- Supporting in the Youth Centre for the Roma Community – organising and delivering activities, helping with homework.
- Supporting in the Foster Care for Unaccompanied Minor Refugees.
- Supporting the Social Kindergarten.
- Assisting with projects which help the homeless and the elderly.
- Assisting in the writing of project proposals and funding bids.
It's a fantastic opportunity to get involved in projects and find out what you are interested in. For more details on the role and the projects available, have a look at the role description. The main thing we want to see is your motivation for this placement! These are fully funded placements, with return flights, accommodation and health insurance covered - volunteers receive a small monthly stipend for living expenses.
Please note that only young people based in Wales can apply for this role, as it is Taith funded. Interviews will take place online with shortlisted candidates.
We are keen to hear from individuals especially those who do not normally get the chance to volunteer overseas, who are passionate and motivated about working in the humanitarian sector and international volunteering but who also understand that these types of placements require adaptability and resilience. We are especially interested in applications from those who are from low socio-economic backgrounds, are carers or are care experienced, have accessed free school meals, are refugees or asylum seekers and those with disabilities or additional needs.
To mobilise the power of humanity so that people can prepare for, respond to, and recover from crisis.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Havering Young People’s Mentoring Service provides support, advice and guidance to young people aged 10-18, encouraging them to make positive choices and achieve their goals.
Mentors are matched with a young person and meet with them on a weekly basis, for a period of up to 6 months. During this time, a strong relationship is built through a variety of activities and trips, including a monthly group meeting with other volunteers and young people engaged in the Service.
In order to become a mentor, potential volunteers will be required to attend a two day training programme before being accepted onto the programme. Volunteers will need to be over 18 years old and be willing to undergo an enhanced DBS check plus provide references.
This role includes:
- Attending an initial matching meeting with a young person
- Committing to 6 months of mentoring with a young person
- Meeting a young person once a week for around 2 hours
- Providing brief recording following meetings to the Volunteer Team
- Working with a young person to review their goals and plan for mentoring
- Accompanying a young person to monthly group meetings
- Acting in the best interests of a young person
Skills and experience required::
- Confident and able to communicate well with young people from a range of different backgrounds
- Can engage with staff and partners to promote the aims and quality of the Early Help Service, and comply with relevant policies and procedures
- Commitment to act in the best interests of young people and comply with jointly-agreed plans
- Experience of working with children or young people, in any capacity
- Willing to undertake training where necessary
- Enthusiasm and commitment towards child development and keeping children safe
Please note that you must be based in the UK to undertake this 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!
Our programme provides young people with the chance to try new things and challenge themselves, experience success, learn to go beyond their expectations and grow in confidence. They have the chance to take part in a range of activities, work in a team, experience group living and challenge themselves in a new environment. The programme is built around three residential adventure camps.
As a Programme Volunteer at one of our camps you will work with groups of up to 10 young people alongside other experienced volunteers, trained members of staff and activity instructors. You will have the opportunity to take part in all of the activities with the young people, ensuring that they get the most out of their time on our programme.
You will ensure the welfare and organisation of the young people, help them to get involved and overcome issues, encourage and support their social relationships and help guide your team to work together.
With our support you will also help facilitate the young people’s learning and development by planning and delivering regular review sessions.
You will also be invited to join our annual volunteer training weekend in Wiltshire over the weekend of 11 and 12 July 2026.
We will call all applicants for a brief chat ahead of sending over our Volunteer Registration Pack. Applicants will also need to complete a Safeguarding Interview, provide 2 referees, complete an Enhanced DBS Check and complete online Safeguarding and Child Protection Training. Applicants must be 21 years or older.
We use outdoor adventure and one-to-one support to empower young people to fulfil their potential and lead positive lives in the future.
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!
Are you passionate about empowering communities with life-saving first aid skills? Join St John Ambulance in our mission to ensure every community and young person is first aid confident.
Through your enthusiasm and experience working with young people, help us provide a positive experience for our youth in St John Ambulance across Cumbria & Lancashire.
About the Role Are you passionate about working with children and young people, helping them make a positive impact on themselves and their community?
Are you committed to supporting student volunteers to deliver meaningful community outcomes? Do you enjoy working as part of a team, helping others grow and develop?
Would you like to be part of a dynamic and growing team dedicated to empowering young people and volunteers? If so, the County Youth Lead role could be the perfect opportunity for you to make a difference!
Key Impact and Responsibilities The County Youth Lead is responsible for supporting our youth programme delivery, expanding our youth and student volunteering provision, and delivering opportunities and training for our young people.
More details are available in the role description attached to this advert.
Development and support available We are committed to providing ongoing support and development for the right candidate in this volunteer role, offering opportunities to grow and succeed as a leader.
This role is open to role-sharing. You will be part of a county team, likely also including officer roles to support you, such as for Student Volunteering, Badgers, and Cadets.
The closing date for this vacancy is the 9th February 2026
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!
Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Pursuing the role
If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:
- Welcome Event (Induction) - 29/12/2025
Closing date for these opportunities is: 07/12/2026
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!
Children’s and Young People’s Activities Volunteer
Help young carers enjoy safe, fun, worry-free breaks from their caring role.
You support children and young people aged 5 to 25 during trips, club sessions, workshops, and holiday activities. You help them meet others, grow in confidence, and enjoy time for themselves. The role involves travel across Solihull so you can attend events and activities when needed.
Your tasks
• Support the Lead Sessional Worker during planned activities and outings
• Help create a safe, welcoming, inclusive space
• Encourage young carers to join in and feel confident
• Follow safeguarding, risk, and safety guidance
• Attend team check-ins and required training
What you bring
• Experience with children or young people
• Calm, adaptable approach
• Confidence working in busy group settings
• Good communication and teamwork
• Flexible availability for evenings and school holidays
What you gain
• Meaningful impact on young carers
• Training and skill development
• Experience in youth support and group work
• A place in a friendly, supportive volunteer team
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!
Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Pursuing the role
If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:
- Welcome Event (Induction) - 19/05/2026
Closing date for these opportunities is: 24/02/2026
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!
Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/07/2026
We'll invite you for a friendly chat to get to know you better and see how your skills and passion align with working with young people.
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!
We are seeking individuals who can empower children and young people, to support and share our mission within their current school or youth provision setting (Brownies, Guides, Cubs, Scouts and Youth Groups).
You will encourage your group to share the mission of Mary's Meals, raise awareness of our work and fundraise.
What support and resources will i receive?
- Support, encouragement, and guidance from your local Supporter Engagement Officer
- A comprehensive induction to Mary’s Meals
- Opportunities to join online or in person volunteer meetings and briefings
- Resources to fulfil your role
- A regular volunteer update e-mail
What are the benefits of volunteering for Mary's Meals?
- Feeling part of the global Mary’s Meals movement to end world hunger
- Learning new skills and gaining experience as part of a growing and vibrant organisation
- Meeting new like-minded people
- Increasing confidence and team-working skills
- Developing communication skills (verbal and written)
- Feeling empowered to have your voice heard, knowing that you are playing an active role in changing the lives of those who need it the most.
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!
Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of healthy citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, and self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Pursuing the role
Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/01/2026
To apply for this opportunity, please follow the link below:
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!
We are recruiting Youth Helpers to assist at our various Cadet and Badger groups in the Surrey area.
Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units by supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Pursuing the role
If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:
- Welcome Event (Induction) - 31/01/2026
- Closing date for these opportunities is: 28/01/2026.
To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:
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!
Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Pursuing the role
If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:
- Welcome Event (Induction) - 04/01/26
Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/03/2026
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!
Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Closing date for these opportunities is: 15/02/2026
We'll invite you for a friendly chat to get to know you better and see how your skills and passion align with working with young people.
Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Our Felixstowe Cadet Unit will meet for 2 hrs on a weekday evening, every week during term times. Usually between the hours between 6-9pm, being a new unit, the team will be able to discuss day/time when in place. Please outline your availability in your application form.
Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/03/2026
We'll invite you for a friendly chat to get to know you better and see how your skills and passion align with working with young people.