Learning volunteer volunteer volunteer roles in Ashford, middlesex

Are you passionate about harnessing digital platforms and social media to educate, empower and inspire communities? 

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is seeking a visionary Social & Digital Media Education Lead to join our founding volunteer team. This role is central to designing and delivering educational programmes that equip members with the knowledge, skills and confidence to use social media and digital tools safely, creatively and impactfully.

Purpose of the role:

The Volunteer Social & Digital Media Education Lead is responsible for designing, developing and delivering educational programmes focused on social and digital media skills. This role supports the organisation’s mission by empowering volunteers, staff and community members with the knowledge and tools to effectively use digital platforms for communication, outreach and engagement. 

About the role:

As Social & Digital Media Education Lead, you will develop and lead training, workshops, and resources for community members, volunteers, and staff. You will work closely with the Instructional Designer, Membership Director, and Technical Systems Liaison to ensure digital learning aligns with our anti-capitalist, survivor-led, and community-driven mission. This is a strategic and hands-on role where your expertise directly enables communities to navigate and leverage digital spaces safely and effectively.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential Technical Competencies:

• Experience managing social media platforms, including content creation, scheduling and audience engagement.
• Experience designing and delivering digital education programmes or training courses.
• Skilled in facilitating online workshops, webinars or interactive learning sessions.
• Ability to create multimedia learning materials such as videos, presentations and guides.
• Ability to support learners in building practical digital skills.
• Knowledge of major social media platforms, digital tools and safe online practices.
• Strong communication skills for clear instruction and guidance.
• Ability to design, deliver and evaluate digital learning content effectively.
• Formal qualifications in digital media, communications or a related field or equivalent professional/volunteer experience.
• Practical experience demonstrating digital content creation, online facilitation or programme management. 

Desirable / Can Be Developed:

• Experience or strong interest in social media, digital content creation or online community engagement. 
• Strong interest in community education, inclusion and positive digital participation.
• Developing skills in creating educational or informative digital content (posts, short videos, guides or campaigns). 

Qualifications:

• Formal qualifications are not required but desirable.
• Relevant study, training or experience in social media, digital communication, education, marketing or community engagement is valued.

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Design and deliver educational programmes, workshops and learning resources on social media literacy.
• Develop training on digital safety and responsible online behaviour.
• Monitor digital trends, tools and risks to ensure training content is relevant, current and safe.
• Develop engaging, practical learning experiences for diverse audiences.
• Update and adapt learning materials to reflect changes in social media platforms and digital practices.
• Align digital media training with organisational goals and programme objectives.
• Provide practical guidance to ensure learners can apply digital skills confidently.
• Support members and volunteers in applying digital skills, including content creation, online communication and platform navigation.
• Develop assessment tools, guides and documentation to track learning progress and measure outcomes.
• Maintain records of learning activities and progress to inform programme improvements.
• Foster confidence and competence among learners and staff in applying digital skills responsibly and effectively.
• Monitor compliance and provide feedback to continuously improve digital education programmes in line with organisational standards.
• Ensure all digital education activities comply with safeguarding policies, protecting vulnerable participants and maintaining a safe learning environment.
• Apply best practices in data-driven decision-making to ensure digital education initiatives are learner-focused, inclusive and aligned with organisational objectives.

What This Role Offers You:

• Leadership experience in designing and delivering digital literacy and media education programmes.
•  Personal and professional growth through hands-on engagement with diverse community members.
• Opportunity to shape the digital literacy and empowerment framework within a pioneering, values-led CIC.
• The satisfaction of enabling members to confidently navigate digital spaces, share their stories and amplify community impact.

What This Role Is Not For:

• Individuals seeking purely administrative or technical work without engagement or training responsibilities.
• Those unwilling to uphold safeguarding, data protection and ethical online practice standards.
• People expecting pre-set, rigid curricula—this role requires creativity, adaptability and proactive problem-solving.

Next Steps

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to

• A values-led conversation.
• If you are ready to educate, empower, and guide communities through digital spaces while fostering meaningful social impact, we want to hear from you. 
• Apply now and become a key driver of transformative digital education.

A Final Word

Data is about people, not numbers. Trust is built through care and accuracy.

If you know that: Respect keeps relationships strong.

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.

Volunteer ESOL Teacher to provide face to face classes for refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. You will plan and deliver lessons independently with the assistance of experienced ESOL teachers.  Your students will be from a wide range of abilities, backgrounds and ages.

We run classes from Mon to Wed from 10 am until 12. 

Previous teaching experience is not compulsory; CELTA or TEFL appreciated.

Minimum 3 month commitment preferred.

Welcome & Reception Volunteer [London] 

Do you want to help people experiencing the housing emergency? 

Information about the role 

You’ll be an essential part of the team, welcoming clients and visitors to the hub. You’ll be providing information and key admin support that enables people to get the help they need with their housing. As well as gathering feedback from clients on their experience of our service.

Location: London Hub, 88 Old Street, London

Suggested contribution: One day per week (can be flexible around your commitments)

Availability: Volunteering will take place at a time that suits you, within Monday-Friday, 9am – 5pm 

Deadline to apply: If you are interested, please apply at your earliest opportunity as this role will close once a sufficient number of applications is received. We are aiming to respond to all applicants on Monday 20th April

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now by clicking ‘fill in an application’ or read on more for details.

Main activities may include: 

• Covering reception duties and being the first point of contact for the hub. 

• Booking in clients for appointments with our advisors. 

• Responding to general enquiries both in person and over the phone. 

• Triaging clients both in person and over the phone

• Signposting people to other appropriate services. 

• General administrative tasks (such as photocopying, scanning, data entry, filing) 

• Phoning clients around 8-10 weeks after they accessed our services. 

• Asking clients set questions to gather information on their experiences with Shelter and the difference it has made to them.

• Recording the phone calls and the responses given onto our client database (CRM). 

This role fights the housing emergency by enabling people who are struggling with housing or homelessness to get the advice and support they need.

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter 

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering. 

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity. 

Your skills and experience 

There are no specific skills or experience you need to have for this role though we do welcome the following skills

• Understanding of the housing system

• Speak more than one language we particularly welcome speakers of Arabic, Bengali, French, Urdu. But any additional language can be useful please specify on your application form if you speak more than one language and which language you speak.

Supporting you 

• You will be provided with an induction into your role, access to relevant learning and a copy of our volunteer handbook. 

• The role, including learning and communications, are flexible, so can be tailored so they best suit your needs and preferences.

• You will be able to claim reasonable volunteering expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy. Where financial circumstances would be a barrier to volunteering, we may be able to offer these funds in advance.

• You will be able to access our volunteer support package, including our colleague assistance programme and Shelter’s network of mental health first aiders. 

Next steps 

You can apply for this role by clicking ‘fill in an application’. If you need to apply by an alternative method, please contact us to see what options are available. 

We will then get back to you about your application. Shortlisted applicants will have a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further. 

Upon offer of role, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions and complete a basic level Criminal Record Check. Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can’t volunteer with us. We will have a conversation with you to discuss the convictions in relation to the role you have applied for. Sometimes it may limit the ways you can get involved. Please contact us if you require more information. 

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Join The Kids Network to Support Children in Your Camden Community! 

Are you looking to donate your skills, give back to your community, or spend your time in a meaningful way? The Kids Network gives you the chance to make a real difference in a child’s life while developing your own skills and building connections. Support a Little Londoner in Camden by helping them grow in confidence. Set aside a little time each week to get creative, have fun, and make a lasting impact!

If you already have experience in mentoring, education, psychology, or related fields, The Kids Network provides an ideal platform to use and donate your skills. By becoming a mentor, you can actively practice your learned skills and see the direct impact of your efforts on the children in your local community and provide support to those who need it most.

Why Choose The Kids Network?

• Active Skill Application: Our programme allows you to apply your expertise in real-world settings, enhancing your practical experience.
• Structured Support: We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring you can make the most of your skills.
• Proven Impact: With 100% of children reporting increased wellbeing, you’ll see tangible impact from your mentoring.

Impact on Mentees

• Building Confidence: Help children in your community develop self-assurance and resilience.
• Creating Opportunities: Provide guidance that helps young people navigate their challenges and seize opportunities.
• Strengthening Community: Contribute to the overall wellbeing of your community, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Connection

• Personal Fulfilment: Experience the joy and satisfaction of making a positive impact on a child’s life.
• Meaningful Relationships: Form a strong bond with your mentee, providing guidance and support through fun and engaging activities.
• Community Engagement: Participate in mentor meet-ups and group activities, connecting with other mentors and mentees.

Your Role as a Mentor

As a mentor, you will hold weekly one-on-one sessions of 1-3 hours for the duration of 12 months. You will help build confidence, resilience, and help your mentee manage feelings through a series of fun experiences and activities. Whether you’re playing games or discussing goals, you’ll be making a difference in a child’s life by developing the tools for a positive future.

 Join Us Today

Whether you're wanting to use your expertise, eager to give back and make an impact, or looking for purpose and connection, The Kids Network offers a meaningful way to contribute. Volunteer with us and become part of a community dedicated to fostering positive futures for children and mentors alike.

For more information and to apply, visit The Kids Network website

Are you passionate about harnessing digital platforms and social media to educate, empower and inspire communities? 

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is seeking a visionary Social & Digital Media Education Lead to join our founding volunteer team. This role is central to designing and delivering educational programmes that equip members with the knowledge, skills and confidence to use social media and digital tools safely, creatively and impactfully.

Purpose of the role:

The Volunteer Social & Digital Media Education Lead is responsible for designing, developing and delivering educational programmes focused on social and digital media skills. This role supports the organisation’s mission by empowering volunteers, staff and community members with the knowledge and tools to effectively use digital platforms for communication, outreach and engagement. 

About the role:

As Social & Digital Media Education Lead, you will develop and lead training, workshops, and resources for community members, volunteers, and staff. You will work closely with the Instructional Designer, Membership Director, and Technical Systems Liaison to ensure digital learning aligns with our anti-capitalist, survivor-led, and community-driven mission. This is a strategic and hands-on role where your expertise directly enables communities to navigate and leverage digital spaces safely and effectively.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential Technical Competencies:

• Experience managing social media platforms, including content creation, scheduling and audience engagement.
• Experience designing and delivering digital education programmes or training courses.
• Skilled in facilitating online workshops, webinars or interactive learning sessions.
• Ability to create multimedia learning materials such as videos, presentations and guides.
• Ability to support learners in building practical digital skills.
• Knowledge of major social media platforms, digital tools and safe online practices.
• Strong communication skills for clear instruction and guidance.
• Ability to design, deliver and evaluate digital learning content effectively.
• Formal qualifications in digital media, communications or a related field or equivalent professional/volunteer experience.
• Practical experience demonstrating digital content creation, online facilitation or programme management. 

Desirable / Can Be Developed:

• Experience or strong interest in social media, digital content creation or online community engagement. 
• Strong interest in community education, inclusion and positive digital participation.
• Developing skills in creating educational or informative digital content (posts, short videos, guides or campaigns). 

Qualifications:

• Formal qualifications are not required but desirable.
• Relevant study, training or experience in social media, digital communication, education, marketing or community engagement is valued.

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Design and deliver educational programmes, workshops and learning resources on social media literacy.
• Develop training on digital safety and responsible online behaviour.
• Monitor digital trends, tools and risks to ensure training content is relevant, current and safe.
• Develop engaging, practical learning experiences for diverse audiences.
• Update and adapt learning materials to reflect changes in social media platforms and digital practices.
• Align digital media training with organisational goals and programme objectives.
• Provide practical guidance to ensure learners can apply digital skills confidently.
• Support members and volunteers in applying digital skills, including content creation, online communication and platform navigation.
• Develop assessment tools, guides and documentation to track learning progress and measure outcomes.
• Maintain records of learning activities and progress to inform programme improvements.
• Foster confidence and competence among learners and staff in applying digital skills responsibly and effectively.
• Monitor compliance and provide feedback to continuously improve digital education programmes in line with organisational standards.
• Ensure all digital education activities comply with safeguarding policies, protecting vulnerable participants and maintaining a safe learning environment.
• Apply best practices in data-driven decision-making to ensure digital education initiatives are learner-focused, inclusive and aligned with organisational objectives.

What This Role Offers You:

• Leadership experience in designing and delivering digital literacy and media education programmes.
•  Personal and professional growth through hands-on engagement with diverse community members.
• Opportunity to shape the digital literacy and empowerment framework within a pioneering, values-led CIC.
• The satisfaction of enabling members to confidently navigate digital spaces, share their stories and amplify community impact.

What This Role Is Not For:

• Individuals seeking purely administrative or technical work without engagement or training responsibilities.
• Those unwilling to uphold safeguarding, data protection and ethical online practice standards.
• People expecting pre-set, rigid curricula—this role requires creativity, adaptability and proactive problem-solving.

Next Steps

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to

• A values-led conversation.
• If you are ready to educate, empower, and guide communities through digital spaces while fostering meaningful social impact, we want to hear from you. 
• Apply now and become a key driver of transformative digital education.

A Final Word

Data is about people, not numbers. Trust is built through care and accuracy.

If you know that: Respect keeps relationships strong.

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

 Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

 Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

Are you a qualified Yoga Instructor who would enjoy facilitating weekly sessions to help individuals with their general well-being. This is an opportunity for you to share techniques with others.

Practicing yoga has been shown to increase mindfulness not just in class session, but in other areas of a person's life.

What you will be doing

• Design session plans enabling all group members to increase fitness, suppleness and help them relax
• Teach the group yoga postures and breathing techniques which allow a range of mixed ages and abilities to participate
• Inspire and motivate people to attend and get involved in the group activities where possible and encourage the group to help design future sessions
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback and report any concerns to the staff team

The skills you need

• Skilled and qualified Yoga Instructor
• Good communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Volunteer Assistant Tutor – Rotherhithe Saturday School

Empowering Young Minds, Boosting Core Skills
Maths & English Every Saturday 10am-12pm for Kids Aged 7-11

Skills Development Training is a 10+ year established Southwark charity running a new Rotherhithe Saturday School for children aged 7-11 (Years 3–6). We are looking for a committed Volunteer Assistant Tutor to support our small-group Maths & English sessions.

Role Overview

• Support the lead tutor every Saturday, 10am–12pm (term time).

• Help deliver 1 hour Maths + 1 hour English with a short break.

• Work with a small group of up to 10 pupils, focusing on: number fluency, reading comprehension and writing skills.

• Help with setting up the classroom, supporting individual pupils, and maintaining a positive learning environment.

What We Offer

• Travel expenses covered.

• Experience in a structured, professional education setting.

• Opportunity to develop teaching, classroom management and mentoring skills.

• A reference after a period of consistent volunteering.

What We’re Looking For

• Reliable and able to commit to most Saturdays, 10am–12pm.

• Enjoy working with children aged 7–11 and supporting their learning.

• Patient, encouraging and confident with basic Maths and English.

• Willing to complete a DBS check and follow safeguarding policies (training provided).

Location

The Business Centre, St. Olav's Court
Lower Road, London, SE16 2XB (Rotherhithe area)

Many of the men we support experience isolation, low confidence, and barriers to engaging with community life. As a befriender volunteer, you’ll build a consistent, trust based relationship that encourages social connection, helps set and pursue personal goals, and supports wellbeing and independence.

What you will be doing

• Offer regular one-to-one befriending - meeting for a walk, coffee, or a planned activity to reduce isolation and build confidence.
• Provide light, goal focused mentoring - agree simple goals (e.g., joining a group, practicing a routine, building life skills) and check progress together.
• Encourage safe community participation - libraries, local groups, leisure activities, volunteering, or learning opportunities.
• Share clear information and signpost to staff or local services where appropriate
• Accompany to non clinical community appointments, help read/understand letters, complete wellbeing “welfare check ins,” and promote general engagement in the community.
• Keep brief session notes or a simple check in with your supervisor and escalate any concerns immediately in line with safeguarding guidance.

The skills you need

• Warm, patient and non judgemental approach; able to build rapport with adult men from diverse backgrounds.
• Good listening, clear communication and reliability
• Respect for confidentiality and professional boundaries; comfortable following guidance and asking for support.

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

About Us

Focus Surrey runs a Saturday Club for autistic children aged 3 to 16. We provide a fun, supportive and child-centred environment where children develop communication, social interaction and early learning skills through play, guided by the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Sessions are led by experienced practitioners, including Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs).

We are recruiting volunteers to join our Saturday Club and support autistic children through play-based activities. This is a great work experience opportunity for students and individuals who are interested in developing their understanding of children with disabilities and gaining meaningful experience in psychology, SEN, education, therapy or related fields. The role supports early career development by offering practical experience in a structured and supportive setting where volunteers can build foundational skills confidence and understanding

The Role

As a Volunteer Play Assistant, you will support autistic children during structured and creative play activities, helping them build communication, social interaction and confidence in a positive and inclusive environment. You will work with qualified practitioners, gaining direct experience using evidence-based approaches such as ABA in practice, while receiving ongoing support and guidance throughout the sessions.

Volunteers are allocated a specific child based on their experience and interests, allowing you to build consistency and rapport over time. The role involves active engagement with children, responding to individual needs, and contributing positively to a collaborative and supportive team environment.

What You’ll Gain

· Hands-on experience supporting autistic children in a real-world SEN setting

· Practical exposure to Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) in practice

· Experience working alongside qualified practitioners and gaining support and guidance

· Development of transferable skills including communication, teamwork and behaviour support

· Increased confidence working with children with diverse needs

· Enhanced DBS check provided

Commitment and Timing

The club will run for 12 Saturdays between February 21st to May 23rd, 2026, from 9am to 4pm each day. Volunteers are encouraged to commit to the majority of the term to ensure consistency for the children and to gain the most from the experience.

Location

The club is based at Merton College in Morden. The venue is a five-minute walk from Morden South Station and is also accessible by bus routes 80, 93, and 154.

Project overview: 

Alfriston Outreach Service is dedicated to helping older and vulnerable people in Kingston. We provide services such as Hot Lunch delivery, Shopping, and Laundry delivered into people’s homes, with our aim to support older people to remain independent in their own homes. 

About us:

Mind in Kingston supports people with mental health issues and raises awareness within Kingston and surrounding areas. We provide training, supervision, and opportunities for career development. 

Volunteers are extremely valued within our team and a vital part of our service delivery. We welcome applications from people from all walks of life, including those who may have personal or professional experience of mental health. While lived experience can bring valuable perspective, it is not a requirement for volunteering with us. Our focus is on providing volunteers with the training, guidance and supervision they need to feel confident in their roles and to develop their skills. Volunteers are supported to succeed and offered opportunities to connect with trustees, staff and other volunteers both professionally and socially. Above all, we value the contribution volunteers make to our community and are committed to recognising their achievements. 

Main purpose of the role: 

• Support and assist the Lunch Delivery. 

• Deliver the Hot Lunches into people’s homes. 

• Report any observations or concerns about service users’ wellbeing to the supervisor.

Tasks will include: 

• Supporting the Driver on the Lunch Delivery. 

• Carrying Hot Meals into Service Users Homes. 

• Using Key Safes to open doors where necessary. 

• Delivering Laundry and Shopping to some Service Users. 

• Provide a point of contact for Service Users. 

• Reporting on changes in Service Users well-being. 

• Reporting back any safeguarding concerns immediately to the supervisor. 

• Maintain regular contact with the supervisor. 

• Attend meetings and supervision sessions. 

What you will receive in return: 

• Training in Safeguarding. 

• Training in Food Handling. 

• Training for any other skills as identified by yourself and your supervisor. 

• Regular check-in with your supervisor, reflective supervision, and managerial support. 

• An opportunity to learn new skills and develop existing ones while being a part of a supportive team at Mind in Kingston. 

• Reimbursement of reasonable expenses. 

• Professional references upon completion. 

• *Alfriston volunteers only: access to a discounted lunch (£5 per lunch, subject to availability). A minimum of 24 hours’ notice must be given. 

What we expect from you: 

• Commitment for at least six months. 

• Completion of required training. 

• Adherence to Mind in Kingston’s policies (e.g., confidentiality, safeguarding). 

• Proactive engagement with your supervisor for support. 

Application Process: 

• Two recent references are required. 

• An enhanced DBS check is necessary. 

We ask volunteers for two references, one of which must come from someone who has supervised you recently in your work or studies, such as a current or previous employer or a tutor. You will also need to undergo an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, as you will be working with vulnerable adults. 

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

 Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.