Learning volunteer volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:
1. It's fun
2. It's flexible
3. You'll learn and share skills
4. You'll be making a difference
5. You'll work with a great team
We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.
Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.
Volunteering in the shop
Our Pebbles Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.
It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.
Why volunteer with Save the Children?
In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.
Skills and experiences we seek
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children.
We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.
What happens next?
After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related).
How to apply
Express your interest on email via the apply button.
Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you committed to delivering high quality care? Do you have experience working as part of a multidisciplinary team?
As a County Lead, you will be part of the establishment of a County St John Council to oversee and guide volunteer Community Networks aims to create a structured and supportive framework that empowers volunteers to operate more effectively and efficiently. By providing strategic leadership, coordination, and oversight, the council ensures that volunteer efforts align with community needs and priorities while avoiding duplication of services.
St John has embarked on a journey to achieve the goal of ensuring that every community and young person across the country is first aid confident.
We are looking for a leader with a passion for local volunteering and helping communities to inspire and support volunteers on this journey across your county
The post will also interact with relevant Communities of Practice to share learning, advice and best practice.
If you are successfully shortlisted for this role, you will be contacted by the Hiring Manager for your area to arrange a suitable time for an interview, which will take place over a Microsoft Teams call.
Closing date for this role is the 3rd January 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!
Organisation: YourGateway2Success (Charity no. 1199249)
Location: Croydon and surrounding areas
Hours: Flexible, voluntary position
About Us
At YourGateway2Success, we empower young people aged 16–25 to thrive through mentoring, skills training, advice, and community activities. We believe every young person deserves the chance to arrive with a dream and leave with a future.
Job description
We are looking for Youth Mentor Volunteer to empower and uplift young people, specifically those aged 16-25, who reside in the Croydon and the surrounding areas, by providing the support and opportunities they need to thrive. We are committed to creating a brighter future where every young person has the tools and confidence to succeed.
Key Responsibilities
- Mentor and guide young people through one-to-one or group sessions
- Support delivery of workshops, skills programmes, and community activities
- Act as a positive role model, promoting confidence and personal growth
- Assist with events, outreach, and recreational projects
- Provide encouragement to help young people achieve their goals
What We’re Looking For
- Good communication and listening skills
- Patience, empathy, and a genuine interest in supporting young people
- Willingness to work as part of a team
- Commitment to our mission and values
- Previous youth work or mentoring experience is helpful but not essential full training provided
What We Offer
- Training and ongoing support
- Valuable experience in youth and community work
- Opportunities to develop leadership and mentoring skills
- The chance to make a real difference in the lives of young people
Additional Information
This role is unpaid.
Send your CV and a short statement on why you’d like to volunteer as a Youth Mentor.
We create inclusive, supportive environments where young people can build self-belief, discover their potential, and prepare for a brighter 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!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
· Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
· Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
· Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
· Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
· Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
· Friendly and approachable
· Great written and verbal communication skills
· Non-judgemental
· Reliable
· Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
· Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
· Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
· Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
· Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
· Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
· Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
· Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
· Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
· Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
· Friendly and approachable
· Great written and verbal communication skills
· Non-judgemental
· Reliable
· Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
· Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
· Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
· Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
· Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
See inside our Collections storage facility - closed to the public - and help us prepare to move our collection to a new facility
What is an Inventory volunteer?
The RAF Museum has many items in its collection which are not currently on display. Our inventory volunteers will ensure that we have an up-to-date record of all the items in our reserve collection, their purpose and condition, to help us prepare to move from our current store outside Stafford to a new storage facility in Cosford. This is a weekday only opportunity.
This role sits within the RAF Museum’s Midlands Development Programme which will transform our museum and our impact on the local community through a series of phased projects – engaging audiences who may not obviously identify with the RAF story by finding common interests and histories which link them. As part of this project, we are planning a new learning centre, outdoor spaces, collections hub and major exhibition.
What will I be doing?
The Inventory Volunteer role could encompass various tasks, which might include:
· Assessing objects’ condition
· Measuring and weighing items
· Undertaking cleaning as required
· Object photography
This role is perfect for you if you…
· Are curious and eager to learn
· Pay attention to detail
· Have a light and careful touch
· Are happy working as part of a team
· Are organised and able to keep accurate records
How much time would I need to commit?
Ideally a half day (09:00 to 12:00 or 13:00 to 16:00) once a week, although other arrangements can be considered on a case-by-case basis. We would ask that volunteers commit to a minimum of 20 volunteering sessions. This is a weekdays only opportunity.
What's in it for me?
· Becoming part of a great team of volunteers and staff
· See and handle objects from the RAF Museum’s collection not on public display
· Learn about object conservation
· Discover more about the history of the RAF
· Gain behind-the-scenes experience within the heritage sector
· 25% discount at our retail outlets and café[KS1]
· Travel expenses reimbursed up to £14.50 per day, in line with our policy
· Free entry to a wide range of museums and heritage sites across the UK.
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!
Shop Volunteering Opportunities
Kensington
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 10:00-18:00 and Sunday 11:00-17:00
Location: 211 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6BD
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 the community
Our Van Driver’s mates are out and about supporting drivers with delivering and collecting stock throughout the local area. They play a key part in getting donations to and from shops. This role does require the ability to lift heavy items.
- 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 volunteering 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!
Join our team of befrienders! You will support us to reach some of the most isolated adults in your community to reduce their feelings of loneliness, build friendships and provide support for mental wellbeing. You will support people to relight a spark to continue a hobby, interest or encourage them to explore and participate in new social activities.
You will support individuals to rebuild their lives beyond crisis.
Loneliness and isolation can affect anyone in life, whatever their age or family situation. Official data from the Office for National Statistics shows that rates of depression doubled during the COVID pandemic, and one of the major causes of depression is isolation.
Hestia has a variety of different services that support people across London and the South East. These services support people that are struggling with their mental health, are victims of Domestic Abuse or Modern Slavery, and more. Join our team of volunteers who play a vital role in what we do!
Face-to-face locations include Islington, Hounslow, Hillingdon, Berkshire, Lambeth, Kingston, Merton, Barbican, Slough, Reading and Croydon
What you will be doing
- Agree a mutual time and frequency to meet in the local community
- To develop and promote a positive relationship with your befriendee
- To encourage your befriendee to engage in social activities and support them in doing so whilst building their confidence
- To support your befriendee in developing their goals and social skills
- Encourage your befriendee to make links with community services, based on their identified goals
The skills you need
- Good listening and communication skills
- Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere which motivates and inspires others
- Willingness to engage in activities in the community
- Able to maintain strict confidentiality and follow professional boundaries
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.
We deliver services across London as well as campaign and advocate nationally on the issues that affect the people we work with.



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shape the Heart of MINDSET Charity – Build a Community of Purpose
Who We Are
MINDSET Charity is a new, volunteer-run organisation dedicated to transforming men’s lives across England. We support men on their journeys of mental wellbeing and self-improvement through workshops, creative programmes, and community-building activities.
We are building a movement of resilience, dignity, and brotherhood. To make this possible, we need a dedicated HR & Volunteering Manager to create and nurture our volunteer community.
The Role of HR & Volunteering Manager
As our Volunteer HR & Volunteering Manager, you will:
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Design and launch our volunteering programme, ensuring clarity, inclusivity, and impact.
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Recruit, onboard, and retain volunteers, building a team of talented, skilled, and positive individuals.
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Foster a brilliant team-spirited culture, where volunteers feel valued, supported, and inspired.
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Develop policies and processes that safeguard wellbeing and sustain long-term engagement.
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Champion our values of brotherhood, empowerment, integrity, and growth in every aspect of volunteer management.
This is a volunteer role, but your leadership will be the heartbeat of MINDSET Charity — creating a community that makes a real difference in men’s lives.
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who share our passion for men’s mental wellbeing. Experience in HR, volunteer management, or team leadership is highly valuable, but what matters most is your commitment to building a culture of positivity, dignity, and purpose.
Why Join Us
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Be part of a pioneering charity at its foundation stage.
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Shape the volunteer culture of a national movement.
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See your work directly empower men and communities.
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Collaborate with passionate volunteers united by vision and brotherhood.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to build a community of purpose and help shape MINDSET Charity’s future, we’d love to hear from you.
This is more than HR. It’s about creating a family of volunteers who stand together, uplift one another, and change lives. Join us, and let’s build MINDSET together.
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!
From stunning boutiques full of designer gems to discount stores where you can grab a bargain, our charity shops are much-loved across Scotland.
We are looking for friendly volunteers to help our shop management team assist customers and donors, and ensure the shop is tidy and well stocked. Whether you have a passion for fashion and love chatting to customers, or you would prefer to be behind the scenes in our stockroom, your help could make a difference in your local community.
Our Retail Volunteer Anne shares why she loves volunteering, “I wanted to learn new skills as well as get to know more people locally, so volunteering in the shop was ideal. I enjoy being part of the team! It’s good to feel useful and part of the successful running of the shop.”
We believe everyone has the right to live life to the full following the diagnosis of a chest or heart condition, stroke, or Long Covid. Our shops are vital in helping us raise the funds needed to provide services such as community support services, specialist nurses, advice and information, education, and peer support.
Join our fabulous team of Retail Volunteers and learn new skills, make great friends, and make a real difference to people in Scotland who are isolated, scared, or anxious about their condition.
Why we want you
We are looking for someone to help our shop management team assist customers and donors and ensure the shop is tidy and well stocked.
What you will be doing
- Welcoming and assisting customers and donors
- Customer care
- Stock control
- Sorting donations
- Hanging and ticketing stock
- Helping to keep shop clean and tidy
The skills you need
- Effective communication and customer care skills
- A willingness to volunteer in a team environment, and with the public
- A willingness to undertake all training required for role
What's in it for you
- Meet new people
- Use your skills and learn new ones
- Make a real difference to people with our conditions
Disclaimer
Expenses Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed. These should be discussed with your Line Manager prior to outlay and must be submitted within the prescribed guidelines as detailed in the CHSS Volunteer Expenses Policy. Safeguarding In line with our commitment to safeguarding, this role is subject to a basic disclosure check. Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland are committed to equality of opportunity, and we aim to ensure no volunteer is unfairly treated on the grounds of an offending background.
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 a dog lover? Do you have the time to help raise a life-changing puppy? Would you like to make a difference to someone's life? If you've answered yes to these questions, then this role could be perfect for you!
As a Puppy Raiser, you'll provide a 6-8 week-old puppy with the vital foundation for its future role as a guide dog. You'll be looking after a puppy for 12-16 months and will guide him or her through training, socialisation, the introduction of new environments and experiences while providing a loving home.
There might be the odd chewed slipper along the way, but nothing beats the rewarding feeling of loving and raising a puppy who will go on to make an enormous difference to someone living with sight loss.
What you'll be doing:
- Engaging with our world-class training programme to prepare your puppy for the next stages of becoming a guide dog.
- Providing care and support for your puppy at home e.g., loving, grooming and feeding him or her.
- Socialising your puppy and introducing him or her to a variety of environments to increase confidence – this can be as simple as taking your puppy with you to the shops, office or park as you go about your everyday life.
- Teaching your puppy to be comfortable alone - gradually building up from a few minutes to a maximum of four hours.
- Taking your puppy to monthly puppy classes, and interacting with other puppy raisers in your community whilst refreshing your training and sharing tips.
- Meeting with your volunteer manager as frequently as needed to discuss any changes or issues with your puppy.
- Completing short questionnaires about your puppy’s development.
You'll ideally have:
- A loving home with enough time to invest in raising a puppy and attending to their needs (e.g. toilet training). If you work from home or have hobbies, you'll need to be available to give the puppy regular attention alongside these.
- Someone at home who is physically able to handle large breed dogs (around 25-40kg).
- Access to a car, so that you can get your puppy used to travelling.
- The agreement of your landlord to have a dog in the property if you rent your home.
- A safe secure area outside for your puppy to go to the toilet.
What you'll get:
- The satisfaction of knowing you're supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well.
- The rewarding feeling of watching a mischievous puppy learn new training techniques to help them develop into a guide dog.
- The opportunity to participate in our bespoke world-class training programme – this can help you train your own dogs or advance a future career in dog handling.
- The opportunity to have a loveable, canine companion, proven to reduce feelings of stress and improve fitness – you’ll be out walking rain or shine!
- The chance to be part of the inspirational Guide Dogs community, meeting like-minded people and interacting with a community of puppy raisers in your area.
- A dedicated volunteer manager and fellow peers who will help support you throughout your role.
s a volunteer you'll have access to our world-class training programme, to implement with your puppy in training, a great bonus for any dog owner! This is delivered in an interactive and engaging manner, using a mixture of different learning techniques virtually e.g., videos, documents and e-learning modules. Examples of the modules you'll have access to include:
- Food manners
- Greeting new visitors
- Being home alone
- Settling in new environments
You'll receive plenty of support from your volunteer manager who will help you work through these training modules with your puppy. We also offer puppy classes for puppy raisers in the local area to get together, share stories and provide refreshers on training techniques.
Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any pre-agreed expenses related to volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, food costs for the puppy and other materials needed for the puppy’s training. We will also pay an optional allowance of up to £100 a year to offset additional costs, and we have working agreements with certain bus and train operating companies, letting you take your puppy on short training journeys free of charge.
Minimum age of applicant: 18.
To find out if this role is available in your area, please click 'Redirect to recruiter' at the top of the page, and use the postcode search function on the Guide Dogs website to explore local opportunities.
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!
Job description
Join FARA, a charity with over 30 years of experience and 39 charity shops across London. Our Clapham Books store is looking for a dedicated Book Volunteer to assist us on Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
By volunteering with us, you'll not only support our charitable work but also contribute to creating a positive experience for our community of customers. You'll also play a key role in ensuring that items FARA cannot sell are responsibly redirected, helping us further our commitment to a sustainable economy.
The Role:
As a volunteer, your responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):
- Sorting book donations
- Pricing books
- Assisting with the placement of books on shelves
- Identifying valuable and collectable books
- Creating engaging book displays
- Greeting and assisting customers
- Till operations
The Volunteer:
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has a genuine passion for books (and perhaps belongs to a book club)
- Is friendly, approachable, and enthusiastic
- Previous experience working with books is a plus, but not essential
- Ideally connected with the local area
What’s in it for You?
At FARA, our shops are run by welcoming, collaborative teams where everyone works together. You'll gain valuable experience, working alongside supportive colleagues who help each other develop, challenge, and celebrate each other's contributions. Full training will be provided, and we offer a positive and safe environment where you can learn and enhance your skills.
Your Time:
Our shop operates from 09:30 to 17:30, and we're looking for someone who can volunteer for a minimum of 4 hours a day, either in the Morning or Afternoon, on Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
If this sounds like the role for you, please click the "Apply" button.
FARA is committed to creating an inclusive environment. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the application process, please don't hesitate to let us know.