Learning manager volunteer roles in leer, unity

Every year, millions of phone calls made by people who stammer are mishandled. Callers are misunderstood, laughed at or hung up on. Voice recognition systems don’t recognise their speech. 

This can leave them being locked out of bank accounts, or unable to book GP appointments and get the help they need. It makes phone calls a nightmare. We’re here to stop this. 

Between November 2025 and October 2026, we will be providing free Zoom workshops to companies and organisations, where we will outline the steps needed to end the phone call nightmares. We are looking for volunteers who stammer to talk directly to businesses and help them understand how and why these changes are needed. Our Workshop Volunteers will be at the very front of our national Space to Stammer strategy, which forms part of our National Lottery work. It’s an exciting opportunity to join STAMMA as we grow and launch our new Phone Call Nightmares Campaign. 

We're looking for volunteers who can commit to at least 5 workshops over the next year. Please see the full role description on our website for current dates,

About the role

Working with our Training & Outreach team, we’re hoping that, following training, you’ll feel comfortable to: 

• Work within a pair to deliver pre-prepared workshops to a diverse audience of organisations. 

• Answer questions and facilitate discussion. The workshops will roughly comprise of 30mins of presentation, and 30mins open forum for discussion.

• Share and answer questions about your own experiences on phone calls. 

• Facilitate training with Zoom: taking turns in a pair to manage Zoom administrative functions such as switching on the captions, keeping an eye on questions in the chat box, allowing visitors into the session, muting/unmuting.

• Act as an ambassador for STAMMA, helping us to build good relationships with organisations, to help enact real change.

Who are we looking for?

You’re likely to enjoy volunteering in the Training & Outreach Service if you: 

• Enjoy public speaking and chatting with groups or would like to develop these skills. 

• Have or are interested in developing presentation skills. 

• Are comfortable both speaking and using the chat function in Zoom (or are happy to learn more about the platforms functionality). 

• Are comfortable sharing your personal experiences in relation to phone calls. 

• Have good time management skills – sessions will only last an hour, and every second counts! 

• Are passionate about making the world a better place for people who stammer. 

• Can commit to at least five sessions in advance.

For this role, it’s essential that you have a stammer. We think our message is best delivered directly from people who stammer, and your lived experiences will help make them sit up and listen.

You will need a quiet place where you can work in relative privacy and not be overheard during Zoom calls or telephone calls. You also need to have access to your own computer or laptop.

As a volunteer you can, of course, step back from the role at any time. However, both you and the service are likely to get most out of the opportunity if you’re able to volunteer with us for 12 months or more. By gradually learning and developing your confidence in the role, you can have the biggest impact. 

What can you gain from this opportunity?

This is a wonderful opportunity to join a small and friendly team! We'll make sure you're supported in every step of your journey, and you'll get to meet some inspiring people. You'll gain skills that you'll be able to use in all areas of your life and build experiences for your CV. Most importantly, you will make a real difference in the lives of people who stammer.

How to apply

To apply, please click 'apply' to fill in the volunteer form that is on our website. 

We are dedicated to making sure our roles are accessible and open to all. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Please note: This is a volunteer role with expenses covered with prior agreement. Multiple shifts are available and shifts are 9am - 1pm and 1pm - 5pm, Monday to Saturday. We are also looking for people to work 12-4pm on Sundays in the run up to Christmas.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing bookshops you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.
• Researching valuable and vintage stock.
• Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays.
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
• This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.

The skills you need

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.
• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required.
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.

What's in it for you

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered).
• Access to training and development.
• Grow your confidence and meet new people.
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle.
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust.
• Possible references for future employers.

Chatterbox Befrienders offer one-to-one telephone support and will call a client once a week offering companionship and a listening ear for an individual who might otherwise go unheard. Chatterbox volunteers befriend a variety of people including carers, socially isolated individuals who are struggling with loneliness, people with ill health and those that 
have been bereaved. 

THIS ROLE COULD BE FOR YOU IF:

- Would like to make a real difference in someone’s life

- Want to challenge loneliness and can commit to a weekly phone call

- Are a good listener

- Are empathetic, patient and of a caring nature

- Have good verbal and inter-personal communication skills

- Recognise the importance of confidentiality and can uphold this in practice

- Are committed to inclusion and treating people with dignity and respect

REQUIREMENTS OF A BEFRIENDER INCLUDE:

- Calling your client once a week for a chat of up to 45 minutes; this is a 26 week initial commitment, at the end of which each client’s needs are reviewed

- Completing an online call log record promptly after each phone call

- Ensuring immediate contact with the Chatterbox Coordinators if you feel that the client might be a risk to themselves or others

- Liaising with the Chatterbox Coordinator on a regular basis regarding the service, as well as discussing personal learning and development needs

- Respecting service standards, appropriate boundaries and recognising the range of policies and procedures that impact on befriending vulnerable adults

BENEFITS OF THE ROLE MAY INCLUDE:

- Knowing you are making a difference to someone’s life

- Joining the Omega Team who are taking action against loneliness and isolation

- An opportunity to enhance your CV or learn new skills

- An opportunity to engage with your community

SUPPORT AND TRAINING PROVIDED:

- Omega Chatterbox induction program

- Safeguarding training

- Ongoing support from Chatterbox Coordinators for all questions, concerns, and support

- Out of pocket expenses are reimbursed and a mobile phone can be provided if appropriate

- Monthly Befriender group support meetings via the Zoom app

LOCATION OF THE ROLE:

- Home-based

WHEN ARE YOU NEEDED:

- Provided on enquiry

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this role. If you have a criminal record this does not automatically prevent you from being considered as an Omega Chatterbox Befriender. We will take into account the nature of the offence, when it happened and whether it is relevant to the voluntary role. If you are shortlisted, this will be discussed with you during the recruitment process.

We’re looking for governors who enjoy challenge, thrive on impact and bring skills in education, marketing or estates and capital development to influence the future of young people and employers across North West London.

Time commitment: 10 – 12 hours per month.

Who we are

At Stanmore College, we believe in unlocking potential, raising aspirations and providing outstanding vocational pathways for the next generation. As we develop a state-of-the-art learning environment and strengthen our role as an educational hub in North West London, we’re searching for new Governors who want to help us shape this future.

About the role

The work of our Governors in setting the college’s strategic direction and improving quality, achievement, and participation is central to Stanmore College’s success.

Governors provide expertise in their area and ensure effective and high-standard collaboration. They work as a coherent unit and in close partnership with the senior management team to achieve the college’s strategic objectives.

As a Governor, you will:

• Work together with other governors, contributing your skills and expertise accordingly.
• Consider strategic developments.
• Systematically monitor college and management performance.
• Review and monitor the implementation of a range of college policies.
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements at all times.

Who we are looking for

Stanmore College is looking for new Governors who thrive on challenge, and most importantly, are passionate about education, recognising the importance of vocational education and delivering positive outcomes for young people, local communities and employers from across the local area.

Candidates are sought with experience in strategic leadership in the following areas:

• Education: including those with experience of higher education, local school leadership or those working in other capacities, which provide insights into the challenges we face within the FE sector.
• Marketing: especially those with a focus on branding, communications and those from a commercial or corporate setting
• Estates & capital development: including those who have experience of working within equally large and complex organisations such as universities and the NHS

Within this role, you will make a genuine impact on the future success of the College and its students. You will support the development and influence the direction of Stanmore College at a time when we are going through exciting developments and have big ambitions for our future. You will have the chance to help us further secure our finances, grow our organisation and aspire to provide outstanding, meaningful education and opportunities for employment.

Peridot Partners and Stanmore College are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Are you passionate about building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient economy? Are you looking for a meaningful way to use your finance expertise?  ECU is a small, dynamic non-profit working to transform the economy. Join us!

What will you be doing?

In addition to the responsibilities of all board members, the Treasurer will: 

1. Support the Board to review and monitor ECU’s financial performance and sustainability
2. Ensure the Board receives timely, accessible and accurate financial information
3. Support the team to develop and maintain robust and proportionate financial policies, processes and risk management systems

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to ECU’s mission and values
• Commitment to the legal duties and responsibilities
• Financial management experience, policies, risk
• Qualifications
• Able to interpret, interrogate and communicate financial information
• Work as part of a diverse team, and devote the time 

Desirable - treasurer experience

What difference will you make?

We have an ambitious vision for change, a strong analysis of the opportunities and barriers to progress, and a clear view of our role in building a better economy. Our board is committed, collaborative and inclusive, with a strong understanding of its role and remit, and a culture of open dialogue.

Before you apply

• Your interest in this role and what you could bring to it
• What would you want to learn and gain?

Interview 25 Feb in London (expenses paid)

Become Our 1st Volunteer Coordinator!

Love working with people? Help us recruit, train and support our amazing volunteers.

Introducing Urban Youth: Igniting Potential in Inner London

In the vibrant, fast-paced heart of London, there is a generation of young people brimming with potential, yet facing unique challenges. They are the future, but for many, the path is obscured by deprivation, isolation, and a world increasingly dominated by screens.

That's why we created Urban Youth.

We are a brand new, dynamic youth work charity dedicated to cutting through the noise and reaching the young people who need us most in Inner London's deprived areas. Our mission is simple yet profound: to move beyond passive engagement and create active opportunities that inspire, connect, and empower.

Our Vision: Moving Beyond the Screen

Urban Youth is not waiting for young people to come to us; we are meeting them where they are. We are tearing down barriers to engagement by deploying innovative, flexible youth work:

• The Youth Bus: A mobile hub transforming spaces into instant centres of positive activity.

• Pop-Up Hubs: Breathing new life into unused community spaces or integrating within existing centres.

• School & College Partnerships: Working directly within educational settings and collaborating with other youth organisations to ensure seamless support.

Our Impact: Building Skills, Confidence, and Community

We believe that every young person deserves a space to discover their authentic self. Our core focus is on diversionary positive activities—experiences designed to get young people out of their homes, away from their screens, and fully engaged with their peers and the world around them.

• Social and Life Skills: We teach practical skills, from teamwork to conflict resolution.

• Confidence Building: We champion self-belief, encouraging young people to take positive risks and celebrate their achievements.

• Discovery and Connection: We provide a vital sense of belonging, fostering meaningful relationships in a safe, non-judgemental environment.

At Urban Youth, our staff are more than just youth workers; they are positive adult role models—here to nurture, guide, and support. We are lighting the fuse on potential, empowering today’s youth to become tomorrow’s confident, capable, and connected leaders.

Join us as we work to transform challenges into triumphs, one young person at a time.

Skills We Need:

• Volunteer Management
• People Management
• HR Management
• Training/Learning and Development
• Strong Organising Skills
• Much More!

Commitement:

4 Hours Per Week (Very Flexible)

Location:

Hybrid (London based charity)

Apply now and help us lead with purpose.

Become our URBAN YOUTH Volunteer Coordinator!

We're planning to launch in 2026 and need you to help us get set up and ready to launch to young people across London.

TEAM

URBAN YOUTH

Your City. Your Vibe. Your Team Building.

Become Our 1st HR/Volunteering Lead!

Help us build a strong, inclusive team! We're looking for an HR or Volunteer Management professional to support us, by leading on the recruitment, onboarding and wellbeing of our volunteers at Urban Youth. 

Introducing Urban Youth: Igniting Potential in Inner London

In the vibrant, fast-paced heart of London, there is a generation of young people brimming with potential, yet facing unique challenges. They are the future, but for many, the path is obscured by deprivation, isolation, and a world increasingly dominated by screens.

That's why we created Urban Youth.

We are a brand new, dynamic youth work charity dedicated to cutting through the noise and reaching the young people who need us most in Inner London's deprived areas. Our mission is simple yet profound: to move beyond passive engagement and create active opportunities that inspire, connect, and empower.

Our Vision: Moving Beyond the Screen

Urban Youth is not waiting for young people to come to us; we are meeting them where they are. We are tearing down barriers to engagement by deploying innovative, flexible youth work:

• The Youth Bus: A mobile hub transforming spaces into instant centres of positive activity.

• Pop-Up Hubs: Breathing new life into unused community spaces or integrating within existing centres.

• School & College Partnerships: Working directly within educational settings and collaborating with other youth organisations to ensure seamless support.

Our Impact: Building Skills, Confidence, and Community

We believe that every young person deserves a space to discover their authentic self. Our core focus is on diversionary positive activities—experiences designed to get young people out of their homes, away from their screens, and fully engaged with their peers and the world around them.

• Social and Life Skills: We teach practical skills, from teamwork to conflict resolution.

• Confidence Building: We champion self-belief, encouraging young people to take positive risks and celebrate their achievements.

• Discovery and Connection: We provide a vital sense of belonging, fostering meaningful relationships in a safe, non-judgemental environment.

At Urban Youth, our staff are more than just youth workers; they are positive adult role models—here to nurture, guide, and support. We are lighting the fuse on potential, empowering today’s youth to become tomorrow’s confident, capable, and connected leaders.

Join us as we work to transform challenges into triumphs, one young person at a time.

Skills We Need:

• HR
• Volunteer Management
• People Management
• HR Management
• Training/Learning and Development
• Much More!

Commitement:

4 Hours Per Week (Very Flexible)

Location:

Hybrid (London based charity)

Apply now and help us lead with purpose.

Become our URBAN YOUTH HR/Volunteering Lead!

We're planning to launch in 2026 and need you to help us get set up and ready to launch to young people across London.

TEAM

URBAN YOUTH

Your City. Your Vibe. Your Team Building.

Oxfam Till Volunteers Headingly Leeds

Do you enjoy meeting people and chatting?

Then this volunteer opportunity would suit you.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide

full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.

When:

· Monday to Saturday and Sundays – Am/Pm – 4 hours or just even 2 hours we are very flexible.

What you will be doing:

· Chatting to Customers - giving great customer service on the till.

· Operating the Till

· Keeping the shop floor clean and tidy

· Accepting donations from members of the public

· Assisting with stocking the shop floor

· Full Training and support are given for this role – no prior experience necessary.

What's in it for you:

· Lunch expenses paid for 5 hours or more volunteered in one shift up to £7.00

· Travel expenses are paid when travelling by bus, parking expenses are paid if driving and petrol expenses are paid at the discretion of the Shop Manager.

· Learn new skills, gain experience, build confidence, and meet new people and make new friends.

Disclaimer: Additional Information

· We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

· We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

· We do ask for one professional reference, however if this is not possible, we have a Reference Risk Assessment process form you can complete with the Shop Manager instead.

· Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

·  We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

Oxfam Till Volunteers Penrith, Cumbria

Do you enjoy meeting people and chatting?

Then this volunteer opportunity would suit you.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide

full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.

When:

· Monday to Saturday and Sundays – Am/Pm – 4 hours or just even 2 hours we are very flexible.

What you will be doing:

· Chatting to Customers - giving great customer service on the till.

· Operating the Till

· Keeping the shop floor clean and tidy

· Accepting donations from members of the public

· Assisting with stocking the shop floor

· Full Training and support are given for this role – no prior experience necessary.

What's in it for you:

· Lunch expenses paid for 5 hours or more volunteered in one shift up to £7.00

· Travel expenses are paid when travelling by bus, parking expenses are paid if driving and petrol expenses are paid at the discretion of the Shop Manager.

· Learn new skills, gain experience, build confidence, and meet new people and make new friends.

Disclaimer: Additional Information

· We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

· We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

· We do ask for one professional reference, however if this is not possible, we have a Reference Risk Assessment process form you can complete with the Shop Manager instead.

· Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

·  We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

OCN London is seeking two new trustees to join its board and support its mission to advance adult education and social mobility.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 13th January 2026.

OCN London is a nationally recognised Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation and education charity with a social mission to widen participation in education and support learners from all backgrounds. With a strong focus on adult learning, community engagement and inclusive qualifications, OCN London works in partnership with education providers, employers, and voluntary sector organisations to create accessible pathways into further learning and employment.

As a registered charity, OCN London is governed by a committed board of trustees who bring strategic insight and sector expertise to guide its development.

The organisation is currently entering a new phase of growth, guided by a refreshed five-year strategic plan focused on social mobility, skills development, and expanding its reach across London and beyond.

OCN London is proud of its collaborative culture, flexible governance model, and commitment to equity. It welcomes trustees who share its values and want to help shape the future of adult education in a rapidly evolving policy landscape.

This is an exciting time to join OCN London as they look to appoint two new trustees to join their board and help shape the future of inclusive adult education. These voluntary roles offer the opportunity to contribute to strategic decision-making, governance, and social impact at a significant time for the organisation.

One trustee will bring a strong financial background, ideally with experience in charity or education finance, alongside another trustee who brings a proven background as a policy advocate or community leader with insight into adult skills, qualification reform, or social mobility. Together, they will support OCN London, respond to evolving government agendas, help shape inclusive education and make a lasting impact.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 13th January 2026.

Join the Oasis Charitable Trust’s Board and apply your professional expertise to scrutinise, challenge and support executive leaders to build communities that transform.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 19th January.

Location: National

For over four decades, Oasis has been at the forefront of sustainable and holistic community development, addressing inequality across economic, social, physical and spiritual dimensions. Our approach spans education, housing, justice, health, youth and family support.

At the core of the Oasis vision is a belief in the transformative power of community. We envision a place where every individual is not just included, but actively contributes to and realises their God-given potential. This vision is grounded in the understanding that inequality permeates all aspects of life, especially within communities facing adversity.

Every Oasis community is distinctive, yet they share a common goal: the creation of a space where everyone is included and where everyone can flourish. The foundation of our work often lies in integrated “Hubs”. Our model is born out of our experience in communities grappling with disadvantage and poverty. We collaborate with other charities, faith groups and local authorities to provide holistic care and opportunities for all.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking Trustees to join the Oasis Charitable Trust Board and Trustees for our subsidiary boards – Oasis Community Learning, Oasis Community Housing, Oasis Community Partnerships, and Oasis Restore. While we remain open to professional expertise, we hope to appoint effective non-executives who can scrutinise, challenge and support executive leaders as Oasis enters its next strategic phase.

Oasis Trustees play an important role in the effective management and governance of the charity, holding ultimate responsibility for its actions and decisions. Key responsibilities include ensuring regulatory compliance (e.g. with the Charity Commission and the Department for Education), safeguarding assets and using our networks and resources responsibly.

Beyond your fiduciary duties as a Trustee, you will be a custodian of our ethos, ensuring that our leaders embody our purpose for the public benefit. You should exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence, seeking professional advice when necessary, especially where your specialist knowledge is required.

Trustees collaborate to make well-informed decisions that serve our long-term success. The responsible management of the charity’s resources involves making judicious decisions aligned with the organisation’s objectives and implementing policies to safeguard its assets.

Time commitment: varies depending on the Board.

Peridot Partners and Oasis are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 19th January.

Trustees
Specialist Education and Care Trust
Location: Cranleigh, Surrey (hybrid)
Time commitment: Approx. 10–12 days per year
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

A specialist education and care trust based in Surrey is seeking up to five new Trustees to join its committed and values-led Board. This is a rewarding opportunity to support children and young adults with complex learning and behavioural needs through integrated education, care and therapy.

As a Trustee, you will provide strategic oversight and constructive challenge across the organisation’s education, residential and supported living services. You’ll work closely with the Executive Principal and Senior Leadership Team, helping to shape operational strategy, monitor financial performance, and ensure effective governance.

Applications are welcome from individuals with experience in the charity, education, care, or public service sectors. The organisation is particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• HR and people strategy

• IT systems and cyber security

• Finance and financial oversight

• Legal and contract law

• Health services

• Safeguarding

Above all, the Trust is looking for individuals who bring energy and enthusiasm, empathy and values alignment, and a collaborative and constructive spirit.

You do not need to be Catholic to apply; Trustees of all faiths and none who share the organisation’s mission and commitment to inclusion are warmly welcomed.

Deadline for applications: 11 January 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 19 January 2026 and week commencing 26 January 2026

For more information, including how to apply, please view the appointment brief on the Prospectus website.

Shop Volunteering Opportunities

Faversham

Our shops are at the heart of local communities raising vital funds for our fight against homelessness and bad housing - and they’re powered by our volunteers!

Suggested Involvement: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied.

Availability: The shop is open Monday - Saturday 09:00-17:00 and Sunday 10:00-17:00. 

Location: Shop in Faversham, ME13 7AL

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager/Assistant Manager

Why volunteer with Shelter? 

Home is a human right. It's our foundation and it's where we thrive. Yet, every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun. 

What can I do?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal chat to find the right role for you. Some roles involve a basic criminal record check being completed during recruitment. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us, but it may impact the ways you can get involved.

• Volunteering in the shop

Our retail volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

- You will not undergo a criminal record check for this role  

• Volunteering in a leadership role

Our volunteer supervisors help with overseeing the running of our shop and creating a fantastic environment for our customers. You may be involved with coordinating and supporting other volunteers, operating computer systems, and being a key point of contact for the shop.

Skills and Experiences Required:

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked in a shop before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow Shelter’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for Shelter. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of bad housing or homelessness.

Induction, Learning and Development:

To enable you to take part in this opportunity Shelter will:

• Welcome you with a Volunteer Handbook
• Provide training, induction, and ongoing support from your Shop Manager to help you feel confident in your role
• Refund any out-of-pocket expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter…

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness
• Gain valuable experience in a retail environment
• Getting involved in your local community and being part of a great team
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills

We aim to respond to all applications within 14 days

If you would like to find out more about the volunteering opportunity before applying, why not pop into the shop, or contact the shop manager.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats and kittens each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups. We have branches across the UK, all of which help our cats in different ways. Branches take in stray and abandoned cats and ensure they receive the veterinary care and attention they deserve; help raise funds, promote neutering and help spread cat welfare messages. Our branch team leader volunteers lead their local team by supporting and managing volunteers within their group, maintaining communications with both volunteers and employees, and helping promote a positive and professional image of Cats Protection.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Supporting your team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure volunteers are happy and confident
• Making sure the team observes charity best practice and compliance
• Collaborating with your Branch Development Manager (BDM) to plan volunteer activity
• Leading the team to follow Cats Protection policies, procedures and guidelines
• Monitoring expenditure and helping ensure long term financial stability of the volunteer group
• Organising and chairing team meetings
• Acting as an ambassador for Cats Protection

Time expectation

Our branch team leader volunteers usually spend 10 to 15 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. There will be times of year when more hours are required, such as towards the end of the financial year, but support and guidance are available.

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better  with cats.