Mental health volunteer volunteer roles in london
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a skilled and passionate Volunteer Trust & Grant Bid Writer to help secure funding that will enable us to continue and grow our life-transforming work in Christian mental health. Working with the Director of Development, the role will involve identifying funding opportunities, preparing compelling grant applications, and helping us build strong relationships with trusts and foundations aligned with our mission.
Mercy UK is a Christian mental health and wellbeing charity, committed to equipping people to live free and stay free through a range of trauma-informed, faith-based support services. From our flagship Freedom Journey programme to practical resources like Keys to Freedom, we support individuals navigating emotional and spiritual challenges and empower churches and Christian organisations to provide meaningful, transformational support.
Key Responsibilities
● Research suitable grant-making trusts and foundations, with a particular focus on those funding mental health, faith-based initiatives, and/or community wellbeing.
● Work closely with the Director of Development to maintain a pipeline of prospective funders.
● Draft high-quality, tailored funding applications that reflect the heart, outcomes, and impact of Mercy UK’s work.
● Collate and interpret project data, outcomes, and financial information to support applications.
● Support the development of template responses and maintain accurate records of submissions and outcomes.
● Assist in preparing follow-up reports or updates required by funders.
What We’re Looking For
● Strong written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive and inspiring content.
● Attention to detail and the ability to work independently.
● Experience of fundraising through trusts and foundations, or equivalent transferable experience in writing bids or proposals.
● An ability to articulate and represent Christian values and ethos respectfully and effectively in written applications.
● Passion for mental health and wellbeing, and alignment with Mercy UK’s mission and values.
What You’ll Gain
● The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a growing, impactful charity.
● Experience in trust and grant fundraising, with support and guidance from our development team.
● A chance to use your skills to directly support the emotional, spiritual, and mental wellbeing of individuals across the UK and beyond.
● References and testimonials for future opportunities.
● Access to Mercy UK’s Employee Assistance Programme with Health Assured
The role carries an Occupational Requirement on the grounds of religion and belief in keeping with current guidance. The postholder must be able to demonstrate a Christian belief and value system, in line with Mercy UK’s statement of faith, ethical framework and core competency statement.
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!
Role Description:
Nova Roots is a new out of hours community space for women 18+ leaving forensic mental health services, open 3 days a week; Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. We offer a safe, warm, non-judgemental social environment for women to build meaningful connections and have access to free activities and resources.
As a volunteer your role will be to support individuals using a peer approach by co-facilitating peer-led workshops, offering emotional and social support. By doing this, it provides an opportunity for service users to develop and manage meaningful and purposeful choices in an independent and empowered way.
We are looking for someone who
- Has lived experience of being in prison / mental health wards / rehab and recovery communities
- Are a non-judgemental and friendly individual
- To be able to provide a welcoming, authentic, and positive experience for all, being inclusive and embracing diversity
- To feel comfortable engaging with women with mental health challenges / difficult life experiences, by validating strengths and experiences and using empowering language to overcome negative self-talk
- Are empathic and understands the stigma / social bias's surrounding forensic leavers and their experiences
- Are willing to tap into their lived experiences and use their stories to inspire hope in others when appropriate
- Are comfortable with co-producing and co-facilitating peer led workshops
- To assist the Forensic Project Coordinator in the daily running of the Forensic Women’s hub
- Are able to take on any ad hoc admin/support responsibilities within the Forensic Women’s Hub
Time commitment and expenses:
- Flexible hours (Weds, Sat and Sun) Please indicate your preferred volunteering day(s) on your application.
- We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role
- Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.
What's in it for the volunteer?
Volunteering at Mind is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a nationally recognised charity, and volunteering in Safe Space is an opportunity to experience and get involved in crisis support. We provide initial and ongoing training, as well as plenty of opportunities for progression within the organisation. You will also be a part of a supportive team with great awareness of wellbeing and the mental health sector.
How to Apply:
Please attach your recent CV and expression of interest
Please attach your recent CV and expression of interest
We’re here to make sure that everyone suffering with a mental health problem gets the help they need to recover.




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!
Would you like to become an Ambassador for knus? We've introduced our new arm-chairing volunteer position.
If you're interested arm-chair volunteering (our most flexible, low commitment role) and applying to volunteer at knus, simply read through the information on this page and apply.
- Are you over 18 and living in the UK? You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.
- Do you have a mobile phone or laptop? You can do this role whether you are, whether it be on a sofa or on a plane.
- How much time can you give? As much as you want to do. We are flexible and like to work around you.
- Do you like to learn? We provide training for all volunteers that join us. You'll have access to our CPD courses to help you advance your knowledge and certificates to add to your CV.
How does it work?
In 2025 we launched our arm chair volunteering initiative to help us spread the word about our service and to give people the opportunity to take part in surveys and projects to help us deliver the best mental health support to the UK public.
We'd like to embrace what you love doing, whether that be sharing on socials, proof reading, surveys, sharing experiences or getting involved in our fabulous projects.
Important information:
In order to volunteer for knus as an ambassador, you will need to complete a brief application form and a ID check. A DBS is not required for this role, however, if you wish to progress to another role you may need a disclosure. We do this to ensure of service remains a safe place to volunteer for all. Please do not worry about this, we will help you as much as we can.
Training is provided by us and our training partners. You will be required to attend this training using online conferencing software such as zoom or teams.
To always be ‘by your side’ when you need mental health peer support.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you enjoying talking with people and helping them based on your life experiences?
Are you able to volunteer a few hours a week?
Yes? We’d love to hear from you.
What is knus?
knus is the UK’s first free, confidential, mental health peer support and coaching online chat service. knus offers mental health educational plans, relaxation experiences and live workshops.
What does knus mean? 'hug' in Danish.
Here’s some further information on what’s needed:
Are you over 18 and living in the UK?
You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.
Do you have a laptop?
A laptop and a quiet space to volunteer is essential.
How much time can you give?
A minimum of 3+ hours per week is required. We are flexible and like to work around you.
Do you like to learn?
We provide training for all volunteers that join us. Our peer support training is CPD accredited. 20-25 hours of volunteering training is required and is self led online.
If you’re interested head over to our website and we can have a chat or apply here.
Please note - all successful volunteers are required to donate the cost price of £20.60 for an Enhanced DBS check. If you've got a current Enhanced DBS on the update service, this cost will not apply.
You must be a UK resident to apply for this role.
To always be ‘by your side’ when you need mental health peer support.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you keen to make the workplace fun and engaging for our great people providing great care through the power of cycling?
- An expected time commitment of twice a month
- Volunteer role, expenses paid
- Location: West London
Using your own bicycle to live by your own values and love of cycling and embed them into the role
Confident in speaking with others and encourage others to model same behaviours
Create, promote and maintain a Trustwide Bicycle User Group
Organise a group of specific ride events with the support from the Travel and Transport Department, encourage people from under-represented groups to take part
Promote events through advertisement and branding with the support of the Communications and Facilities team. An expected time commitment of twice a month
Adhere to the relevant policies and procedures of the Trust, including Infection control, Health and Safety, Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity, Data Protection and Confidentiality policies
Opportunities to get involved in other areas of the Trust’s work, including our NHS careers
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Role Description:
The Safe Space is a local hub for anyone who feels they are nearing crisis point. We are here to listen to what you need and work with you to help. These might be strategies to help you cope in the moment, a range of activities that we provide free of charge, resources to take away or connect you with practical local services. As a part of this, we are looking for volunteers to offer support to individuals who may access our crisis drop-in services. This includes a variety of tasks, which include greeting individuals, offering a cup of tea and biscuits, general reception duties, supporting 1:1 session, completing administrative tasks and generally keeping clients engaged and safe on our premises.
We are looking for someone who
- Has lived experience of mental health/social crisis
- Preferably have had experience working with people who experience poor mental health
- Are comfortable with co-producing and facilitating peer led workshops where applicable if required.
- Are willing to actively participate with clients 1:1 and in group settings
- Are able to take on any ad hoc admin/support responsibilities within the Safe Space Team
Time commitment and expenses:
- Minimum 6 months commitment, offer I day per week during our opening hours of 2pm–10pm. Please indicate your preferred volunteering day(s) plus preferred site (H&F, Ealing or Hounslow) on your application.
- We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role
- Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed where required.
What's in it for the volunteer?
Volunteering at Mind is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a nationally recognised charity, and volunteering in Safe Space is an opportunity to experience and get involved in crisis support. We provide initial and ongoing training, as well as plenty of opportunities for progression within the organisation. You will also be a part of a supportive team with great awareness of wellbeing and the mental health sector.
We’re here to make sure that everyone suffering with a mental health problem gets the help they need to recover.




The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
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!
Volunteer Graphic Designer – Mental Health Tech Project “Rooted”
Remote | Flexible hours | Volunteer role with strong portfolio potential
At Rooted, we’re building something that matters.
We believe emotional well-being should be nurtured, just like a seedling needs light, water and care. Rooted is a mental health tech initiative focused on emotional expression, community, and early intervention – blending psychology, AI, and digital storytelling to support young people’s mental resilience.
We're at an exciting stage of development and looking for a creative volunteer to help shape how the world sees Rooted.
Do you want to use your design skills to support a new movement in mental health innovation?
We're seeking a Graphic Designer to join our small, mission-driven team and collaborate directly with our UX designer and founder.
You’ll play a key role in shaping our visual identity – developing a brand guidelines deck and designing our logo – to bring Rooted’s values of empathy, growth and connection to life.
This role is for you if…
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You’re a creative thinker with a strong eye for brand, typography, and visual storytelling.
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You have some experience (formal or informal) in the mental health sector, nonprofits, or tech-related projects.
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You’re comfortable collaborating with others remotely and enjoy co-creating with UX and product teams.
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You’d love the chance to make a meaningful contribution to an early-stage product and grow your portfolio with purpose-led work.
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You care about aesthetics and impact – and believe design can be a tool for social good.
What you’ll be doing:
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Co-developing Rooted’s brand identity in collaboration with the UX designer and project lead.
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Creating a set of brand guidelines (colours, typography, icons, image style, tone).
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Designing a logo that reflects Rooted’s emotional and botanical themes.
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Supporting visual assets for presentation decks, website drafts, or early promotional materials.
Details:
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Location: Fully remote
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Time commitment: Flexible, estimated 3–5 hours/week for 4–6 weeks
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Start date: ASAP (we’ll work around your availability)
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Benefits:
• Your work will feature in a real mental health tech product
• Full credit in our team materials + LinkedIn reference if desired
• A chance to collaborate closely with experienced creatives and researchers
• Space to experiment and propose ideas
• A thank-you package & optional showcase on our launch page
To apply:
Please submit:
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Your portfolio or link to your work (required – this can be a website, Behance, PDF, or Google Drive folder)
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A short note on why this project interests you
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(Optional) A CV or LinkedIn profile
Don't worry if you’re early in your career or haven’t worked on something exactly like this before. We care more about the quality of your ideas and your openness to collaboration than a polished resumé.
Apply via the “Apply” button below.
We strongly encourage applications from designers who identify as neurodivergent, people of colour, LGBTQ+, or who have lived experience with mental health challenges.
Let’s co-create something beautiful and healing – together.
Our mission is to make emotional well-being simple, engaging, and naturally woven into daily life—turning it from a problem into a daily solution.




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!
The Listening Place is a volunteer-led charity aiming to transform how we support people who feel suicidal. Our trained volunteers are part of a team delivering face-to-face, confidential, ongoing support to thousands of people each year. They help create the warm and welcoming environment that encourages people struggling with suicidal thoughts and feelings to talk openly without being judged or given advice.
Listening volunteers provide ongoing face-to-face support to visitors on regular, fortnightly 4-hour shifts during which they meet with up to 3 visitors (for up to 50 minutes each). In order to ensure continuity for our visitors we require a one-year minimum commitment from our LVs, as well as three months’ notice of intention to leave.
No experience or qualifications are necessary – we provide full training in active listening. We look for warmth, empathy and resilience in our volunteers and the ability to be non-judgemental and avoid giving advice.
We are primarily recruiting Listening Volunteers for our new site near Liverpool Street. We also have limited vacancies available at our other sites in Hammersmith, Pimlico and Kings Cross.
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!
About Us
Suicide Awareness Prevention UK (SAPUK) is a dedicated, non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC), established in 2016, focused on providing support to individuals dealing with suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Our goal is to guide people from distress toward hope, helping them regain the strength to live their lives to the fullest.
Our Work Environment Includes:
- On-the-job training
- Growth opportunities
- A relaxed atmosphere
- Flexible working hours
Job Description
SAPUK is looking for volunteers to assist with our support services, which run daily from 6am to 11pm. Volunteers will engage through our instant messaging support line, which operates via Meta and offers anonymous communication via our website. The service is managed through a free app, available for download on all smart devices.
Over the years, our dedicated team has supported countless individuals, helping them overcome feelings of distress and guiding them away from the darkness. As a volunteer, you’ll be part of a compassionate team, committed to providing life-changing support.
SAPUK offers regular training to help volunteers enhance their skills and gain invaluable experience. Volunteers will become part of a supportive, collaborative team that prioritizes mental health and the well-being of both those we serve and our volunteers.
Volunteer Requirements:
- A minimum of 6 hours per week (one shift, or split into two 3-hour shifts).
- Flexible shift options to fit your schedule, with shifts ranging from 6am to 11pm.
- We’re looking for individuals who can commit to at least one shift per week, though we’ll work to accommodate your availability.
Shift Patterns Available:
- 6am - 12pm
- 6am - 9am
- 9am - 12pm
- 12pm - 6pm
- 12pm - 3pm
- 3pm - 6pm
- 6pm - 11pm
- 6pm - 9pm
- 9pm - 11pm
Application Process:
- You must be based in the UK (no overseas applications accepted).
- Strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills are required.
- Strong proficiency in English is essential.
- Successful candidates will be contacted to complete an application and confidentiality form and provide two references (one work-related, one educational or work-related).
- Following the submission of the forms and references, we’ll arrange a call to discuss the role, then provide you with a training video.
- Volunteers will be added to our WhatsApp groups, and you’ll begin shadowing more experienced team members before taking on your own chats.
- Shadowing typically requires 9-18 hours, depending on your confidence level.
Please note: This role may be distressing at times. Our team is incredibly supportive, and volunteers are encouraged to reach out to team members whenever necessary.
Person Specifications
If you’re passionate about mental health and want to help those in need, SAPUK is the place for you. As a volunteer, you’ll make a significant difference while joining a caring and selfless team.
Requirements:
- Must be 18 or older.
- Minimum commitment of 6 hours per week, with flexible scheduling options.
- Must have WhatsApp and Facebook (or be willing to get them).
- A working email address and phone number linked to WhatsApp are required.
- Willingness to download an additional app and join multiple WhatsApp groups to communicate with the SAPUK team and support individuals.
Benefits:
- Remote work (work from home)
- Gain valuable experience
- Be part of a supportive team
- Work flexible hours, including days, nights, and weekends
- Volunteer benefits package
Job Type:
- Volunteer
Location:
- Remote (UK-based applicants only)
Job Type: Volunteer
Pay: None (Voluntary)
Expected Hours: Minimum 6 hours per week
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Night shift
- Weekend availability
Licence/Certification:
- DBS (preferred, not essential)
Work Authorization:
- Must be based in the UK
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
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 qualified to teach Yoga and passionate about promoting wellness? We are looking for dedicated volunteers to facilitate Chair Yoga sessions on Mondays at 7pm in our Tooting Recover Café. If you would like to promote relaxation and reduce others anxiety through mindful breathing and movement, we would like to hear from you!
about the service
We work with people who need support with their mental health across London and the South East. Our support ranges from registered accommodation services for people with severe mental health conditions to drop-in community and crisis services.
In the last year, 9,499 adults accessed Hestia’s mental health support.
We help people to feel safe, develop hope for a better future, and achieve their personal goals. These goals may include rebuilding relationships with family members and friends or connecting more with their local community.
What you will be doing
- Lead engaging chair yoga sessions for participants of mixed ages and abilities
- Assisting participants with the correct movements and breathing techniques
- Provide a supportive and welcoming environment, encouraging participation
- Provide guidance and support to help individuals to enhance their flexibility, strength and relaxation
The skills you need
- Qualified to teach Yoga
- Patience, empathy and a positive attitude
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.
- Good communication skills
Disclaimer
Hestia is proud to be a Disability Confident employer. Should you require our role pack in an alternative format or wish to discuss any reasonable adjustments you may need for your interview, please contact hestia. As part of the process of volunteering, all applicants will need to complete a DBS and references. If you have any convictions/cautions, this does not mean that you cannot apply for any of our roles, however we do require a DBS for all positions. We ensure that all positive disclosures on DBS records are discussed with our volunteers and fairly assessed.
We deliver services across London as well as campaign and advocate nationally on the issues that affect the people we work with.




- Location: UK-wide (Board meetings online, with occasional in-person events)
- Time Commitment: 8–12 hours per month
- Term: Initial 3-year term, renewable up to a maximum of 9 years
- Remuneration: Voluntary Role (expenses reimbursed)
- Start Date: October 2025
- Applications Open: July 2025
- Applications Close Date: 5 pm, Friday 5th September 2025
- Interview Dates: 15th September (PM) and 17th September (AM)
About DiMHN:
The Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN) is a UK-based charity dedicated to transforming mental health environments through inclusive, evidence-based design. Our network brings together professionals from healthcare, design, policy, and lived experience to improve mental health outcomes and create spaces that promote dignity, safety, and healing.
Role Overview:
As a Trustee, you will help guide the strategic direction of DiMHN, ensure effective governance, and champion our values. Trustees are expected to provide strategic oversight and contribute expertise to subgroups or advisory functions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Shape and review DiMHN’s strategy, vision, and values.
- Ensure compliance with legal, financial, and governance requirements.
- Monitor performance and support the CEO and executive team.
- Act as an ambassador for DiMHN, promoting our vision, purpose, and values, as well as the work we do.
- Contribute to fundraising, research, and partnerships.
Why Join Us
Joining the Board of DiMHN presents an opportunity to shape the future of mental health environments across the UK and beyond.
You’ll be part of a passionate, forward-thinking community working at the intersection of design, care, and lived experience.
As a Trustee, you’ll:
- Shape strategic direction to drive meaningful change in mental health environments across the UK and beyond.
- Collaborate with a diverse network of leaders, experts, and lived experience advocates, influencing the future of mental health design.
- Provide governance and oversight that ensures the charity’s growth, sustainability, and impact.
- Champion inclusivity by elevating voices often excluded from design and decision-making processes
- Influence policy, standards, and innovation at national and international levels to embed evidence-based design in mental health care.
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for people who believe in the power of design to change lives. Whether you come from healthcare, design, research, lived experience, or another walk of life, if you’re motivated by the idea of creating more inclusive, compassionate mental health environments, we want to hear from you.
We have two Trustee vacancies and warmly welcome applications from both first-time trustees and those with previous board experience.
We value fresh perspectives and offer support to help you thrive in the role. We are especially interested in individuals who can bring insight in one or more of the following areas:
- Mental Health Services & Policy: Clinical, community, lived experience, commissioning, or estates, facilities and planning.
- Digital Health & Technology: Expertise in AI, immersive tech, digital platforms, or digital strategy in care settings.
- Finance & Commercial Strategy: Income generation, business development, or financial planning in health, social impact, or design sectors.
- Research & Evaluation: Academic or applied research, impact measurement, or policy analysis.
We’re also looking for Trustees who embody our values:
At DiMHN, our work is grounded in our core values. We’re looking for Trustees who reflect these values through both mindset and action:
Be Courageous – You’re willing to ask challenging questions, confront assumptions, and help push boundaries to make mental health spaces more inclusive and compassionate.
Empathy in Design – You understand that good design starts with empathy. Whether through lived experience or professional perspective, you value collaboration and co-production with those who access mental health care and support.
Evidence-Led, Impact-Driven – You’re curious, reflective, and motivated by real-world change. You use evidence to guide decisions and are focused on outcomes that make a difference.
Improve Together – You believe in learning together. You’re generous with your skills and committed to helping the DiMHN and the wider sector grow stronger through collective action.
Eligibility:
Applicants must be over 18 and eligible to serve as a charity trustee
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
We are actively working to improve the diversity of our Board, recognising that inclusive leadership strengthens both our governance and our ability to achieve our purpose. Diverse perspectives lead to better decisions, richer insight, and more equitable outcomes for the communities we serve.
We know that some groups remain underrepresented in charity governance, including people from racialised communities, disabled people, LGBTQAI+ individuals, younger adults, and people with lived experience of mental health. We also value regional diversity and welcome applications from across the UK. We encourage applications from
How to Apply:
Send your CV and a short written or video/audio statement (max two pages or five minutes), titled “[Your Name] Trustee Role.”
In your statement, tell us why you’re interested, what you’d bring, and any support you might need to thrive in the role.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
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!
SANE is a UK-wide mental health charity working to improve the quality of life of anyone affected by mental illness. It aims to raise awareness and understanding of all mental health conditions; fight to improve frontline mental health services for individuals and carers; provide support, information and guidance through its helpline, email and text support and Online Forum; and promote and host research into causes, treatments and therapies.
About the role:
We are now looking for people interested in providing compassionate support to those affected by mental health problems, particularly people with severe mental illness, and carers, families and friends. As a volunteer, you will provide support on-site, in our Islington offices, by telephone. You will also form a close team with our other skilled volunteers and shift leads.
Volunteering can help improve mental well-being, increase physical activity, enhance social bonds and bring meaning to people's lives. It is an excellent way of putting a structure on your free time and keeping your brain active. When you volunteer, you feel useful to and valued by your community.
SANEline Volunteers provide support to callers with a wide range of mental health problems via our confidential crisis line, which is open from 4-10pm, 365 days a year.
Working on SANEline requires empathy and resilience, and we take pride in providing a nurturing environment and unwavering support to our team.
About you:
- You are empathetic, highly compassionate and genuinely interested in supporting people from all walks of life
- You are a good listener and a warm and confident communicator
- You have a few hours to spare each week and want to use that time to make a difference to help vulnerable people
- You can commit to one 4-hour shift per week, including one weekend shift per month
- You are looking for a way to continue using skills built up over your working life or a route to learn and explore new avenues previously blocked by the demands of your career or job.
- You can work collaboratively with our team and volunteers to ensure delivery of a high-quality service on SANEline
- No previous helpline or mental health experience is required, just a sincere desire to help others
Altogether, we are looking for warm, compassionate, understanding and committed people who are good communicators to join our services team as a volunteer.
You don't need to be a mental health expert: empathy and commitment matter more than academic qualifications or experience, and we’re keen to hear from people of all ages and walks of life.
We particularly encourage applications from retirees, empty nesters, or people changing careers and wanting to develop new skills.
This summer, we will run two drop-in sessions for you to find out more about SANE and ask any questions you may have about volunteering with us.
What can you expect?
To work within SANE's framework, including regular check-ins and debriefs to support you and help refine your newly acquired skills.
To receive the full SANEline training and further online training opportunities within specific areas.
To become part of an established and diverse team.
To gain exposure to a wide range of mental health problems.
To gain valuable practical experience in providing emotional support to vulnerable people.
A culture where team members support and learn from each other.
A warm, supportive and encouraging environment.
To apply: Please click on "Apply via Website" and fill in the form to register your interest. We will then get in touch and let you know about the following steps.
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!
Would you like to support people in their time of need?
At our sanctuary (Finsbury Park, North London) for those in suicidal crisis, we offer a potentially transformative experience with a once-only 5 day (4-night) stay at our non-medical, family-style house. Through respite, time and space for reflection and compassionate and nurturing care, our Volunteer Befrienders and Lead Befrienders support an opportunity for the revival of hope and resilience.
Volunteer Befrienders are key to Maytree and work alongside Lead Befrienders to provide an open and containing space for people who are feeling suicidal.
Befriending is as it sounds: sitting alongside our guests as a friendly, compassionate and non-judgemental companion. Through active listening and human warmth our volunteers enable our guests to feel supported, explore their feelings in a confidential setting and discuss their options in their own way and in their own time. This face-to-face support is not therapy; it is about being calm and committed and not afraid of difficult subjects, including suicide.
To fill a gap in services for the acutely suicidal. Offering brief stay crisis support and engagement with non-medical, compassionate Befrienders.
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!
Summary: Driving medical communication and patient-led research agenda for a complex medical condition
Description: You could make a real difference to the lives of patients and doctors struggling with a rare disease. That's what we do at Mast Cell Action - a charity dedicated to supporting the Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) patient community and improving the evidence base for the disease.
We work hand-in-hand with doctors and patients to develop materials that truly make a difference. And with the help of our medical advisory panel, we're constantly improving our activities to better serve our community.
But we're not done yet. We're looking for someone with a genuine interest in this area, with medical, health, NHS, and research experience to join our team. You'll be responsible for developing and executing our strategy to engage with the medical community, research organisations, NHS policymakers, and our community as a whole.
You'll lead multiple projects, collaborating with doctors to better understand and define our community, as well as initiating and executing new projects. And with your expertise, you'll ensure that all our communications are evidence-based and informative.
So, if you're passionate about making a real difference, come and join us at Mast Cell Action. Together, we can create a brighter future for patients and doctors alike.
You will lead a team of passionate volunteers and interns, working closely with our Operations Director to drive our mission forward. One of your key responsibilities will be to nurture and grow our Medical Advisory Panel, working hand-in-hand with supportive doctors and medical institutions. You'll be the face of the charity, representing us in all our interactions with these key stakeholders.
You’ll report directly to our trustee board, ensuring that all of our activities are aligned with our overall strategy and goals.
We're looking for a dynamic individual who can inspire and motivate their team to achieve great things. If you're passionate about healthcare and have experience working with medical institutions, this is the perfect opportunity for you. So why not join us at Mast Cell Action and help us make a real difference in the lives of patients and doctors?
What impact will they have?
At Mast Cell Action, we know that communicating, engaging, and educating the medical community and policy makers is crucial if we want to improve support for MCAS patients. And that's where you come in.
As our communications expert, you'll play a pivotal role in advancing patient care over time. You'll work closely with doctors, medical institutions, and policy makers to raise awareness of MCAS and advocate for better support for patients.
By effectively communicating the importance of MCAS and engaging with key stakeholders, you'll help improve patient outcomes and quality of life in the long run.
If you're passionate about making a real difference and have experience in healthcare communications, this is the perfect opportunity for you.
About the volunteer
What skills should they have
We are looking for a volunteer who has experience in the NHS and medical/research environment. If you're someone who can assess a situation and develop a clear strategy to achieve the desired outcome, we want to hear from you.
As our ideal candidate, you're an effective communicator who can engage with doctors and produce written and visual materials that really make an impact. You're also a team player who can work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Managing projects and team members is second nature to you, and you're able to keep everyone on track and motivated. And with your awareness of the political and economic landscape in the area of complex diseases, you can navigate through any obstacles that come your way.
If you're passionate about making a real difference in the lives of patients with complex diseases and have the experience we're looking for, we want you on our team at Mast Cell Action.
Skills
Medical related background
Medical writing skills
Project management
Team management
Analytical and conversant with research methodologies
Where and when
Work remotely, flexible hours
Meetings in London
Trips to medical conferences around uk
Reasonable Expenses covered.
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 interested in facilitating a peer support group for people who are struggling with their mental health? We are looking for passionate volunteers to facilitate a weekly online or face-to-face group, to discuss topics relating to mental health. We are hoping to find someone who has either ‘lived experience’ of mental health issues and is now at a positive place with their own recovery or someone who has good knowledge of mental health and looking to support others.
We work with people who need support with their mental health across London and the South East. Our support ranges from registered accommodation services for people with severe mental health conditions to drop-in community and crisis services.
What you will be doing
- Facilitating weekly peer support groups, covering topics related to mental health.
- Promote a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental atmosphere where all members feel valued and heard
- Encourage mutual support, active listening, and shared problem-solving within the group
- Manage group dynamics sensitively, ensuring discussions remain constructive and inclusive
- Collaborate with staff to monitor group wellbeing and escalate any concerns appropriately
- Assist in planning and preparing for each session, including topic prompts or themes if needed
- Maintain confidentiality in line with organisational policies and safeguarding standards.
The skills you need
- Lived experience of mental health challenges is highly valued and can be a strong foundation for this role
- Good communication and active listening skills
- Ability to facilitate group discussions with empathy and patience
- Understanding of boundaries and confidentiality in a mental health context.
- A non-judgmental, supportive, and encouraging attitude
- Experience in peer support or group facilitation is an advantage but not essential; training will be provided
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.
We deliver services across London as well as campaign and advocate nationally on the issues that affect the people we work with.



