Mental health volunteer volunteer roles

Barefoot and Free is a grassroots charity that supports families of neurodivergent children and children affected by trauma. We offer fully funded staycations and nature-based respite breaks for families and parent carers who are often at breaking point.

We’re a small, warm team not a large wealthy organisation and we care deeply about what we do. There are no airs and graces here, just real people doing our best to help families who need a break. Right now, we need someone with the skills and experience to help us bring in more funding to meet the growing need.

We’re looking for someone experienced and independent.
This is not a start out training opportunity. You’ll be working alongside an existing bid writer and need to come in ready to get stuck in with little to no guidance, it will test your resiliance and give you some amazing challenges. We’re looking for someone who knows how to write strong, successful bids and is comfortable finding opportunities, matching them to our projects, and managing the process from start to finish, we are giving you alot of exciting responsibility so if you wish to progress and move to the next step and meet some personal goals this is for you. 

What are we looking for?

• Solid experience writing successful funding bids, ideally in the charity or non-profit sector

• Someone self-motivated, confident, and able to work without close supervision

• A clear communicator who can work independently and enjoy networking.

• Someone who genuinely cares about the work we do and wants to help us keep doing it

• Meet funding dealines and reporting deadlines

• Help along with our team to maintain the funding database and outcomes

What difference will you make?

By securing funding through successful bids, you will be supporting Barefoot and Free towards building a more sustainable and resilient organisation. Your input will be instrumental in establishing long-term sustainability, ensuring that our vulnerable families are supported over time. Families are often stretched to the limit with carer roles, supporting vulnerable children and young people without breaks or respite, by securing suitable funding you will be supporting them and the long-term sustainability of the organisation's efforts with the ultimate goal of profoundly improving the quality of life for our families.

We rely entirely on grants and donations. Every successful bid helps keep the doors open for families who often have nowhere else to turn.

Perks of volunteering with us:

• Flexibility to work around your life, take the lead on bids from start to finish

• Join a genuinely warm, down-to-earth team where your input is truly valued and felt

• Be part of something that directly supports struggling families in a very real way

• A rewarding role where your skills will have a direct and lasting impact

• Achieve some personal goals and a chance to build your portfolio with meaningful, purpose-driven work

If you’re looking to be part of something real, something with heart, and you’ve got the experience to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you today.

Could you raise SSAFA’s profile in your local area? You just need patience and the ability to get on with a wide range of people and age groups, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be he role for you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Publicity Coordinator?

Publicity Coordinators work with other branch volunteers to develop a Publicity Plan to raise awareness of SSAFA that reaches potential beneficiaries, volunteers, and funders.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all walks of life and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. We’d love the general public to understand what we do and how they can help us. We need to recruit volunteers that reflect our local communities and raise money to fund our work. Could you spare a few hours a week to help us raise awareness?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about building awareness so beneficiaries know who we are and how they can benefit from and access support, promoting volunteer opportunities and encourage people to raise finds and celebrate success. This means that on occasions, you might need to be present at events. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but you can conduct the administration part of this role form home.

What would you be doing?

• Working with other branch volunteers to develop a publicity plan.
• Publicising SSAFA events.
• Work with Marketing/PR staff at central office to develop case studies of clients and volunteers and ensure that SSAFA branding and messaging are consistent.
• Develop and maintain networks with local press, TV and radio outlets through providing press releases, interviews, case studies etc.
• Working with the Digital Team at Central Office to develop and maintain a local on-line presence for the branch via a website and social media channels.
• Keeping a stock of SSAFA publicity materials and distributing them
• Liaising with PR staff at central office or on-call in the event of a PR/press situation.
• Supporting local and national campaigns to recruit new volunteers.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA including all sections of the community in awareness raising
• Adhering to SSAFAs policies and procedures at all times, including safeguarding, volunteering policy, equality, diversity and inclusion, health and safety, data protection and confidentiality.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - communication and marketing workshops.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact.
• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team as well as Marketing and Communication Teams based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good communication skills
• Good written and spoken English.
• Confident to deal with the public, potential clients, volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues – face-to-face, by phone, email or via social media
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Reliable attitude
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely in line with SSADA policies.
• Access to public transport or a car to get to meetings and events.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative).

Is a criminal record check required? No

Research Volunteer [Norfolk]

Do you want to help identify the housing issues that shape our campaigns?

Information about the role

At Shelter Norfolk we’re building a coalition to secure long-term change. As a Research Volunteer, you’ll be a vital part of our work to achieve this. You’ll research important areas to help us learn more about the issues and the ways to fix them. Your research will contribute directly to our campaigning work to change housing in Norfolk. 

Location: Shelter Norfolk Hub, 50-52 Fishergate, Norwich

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

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now or read on more for details.

Main activities may include:

· Supporting Shelter Norfolk’s project work by carrying out research and data collection.

· Using the internet to research relevant topics, for example, Landlord Licensing Schemes and Council Enforcement Schemes.

· Making Freedom of Information requests to Local Authorities.

· Gathering data on the experiences of people affected by homelessness and bad housing, for example via questionnaires or surveys.

· Compiling the data collected in an accessible format. 

· Providing updates of your findings to the relevant action groups at Shelter Norfolk

This role fights the housing emergency by identifying local issues, so we can make sure our campaigns are relevant to the changes that are needed in the local area.

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

We’re looking for someone who is interested in housing and homelessness and who has enthusiasm for improving the experience of renters in Norfolk. The volunteer in this role will need some basic IT skills, including using the internet and sending emails.

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

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.

Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation, and IT skills.

What is an Administration Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent administrators to keep things running efficiently behind the scenes.

What would you be doing?

· Every SSAFA Branch has different needs, however, below are the main activities of a Branch Administration Coordinator.

· Overseeing enquiries: Overseeing the administration of the branch shared inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered.

· Getting people together: Organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face

· Planning and organising: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to arrange events such as the Branch Annual General Meeting

· Note taking and recording: Maintaining accurate records of meetings and decisions.

· Communicating: Supporting the Branch Chair with internal communications, keeping other volunteers up to date and informed

· Tracking and ordering: Keeping a record of branch assets, ordering stationery, and ensuring maintenance of equipment

· Supporting health and safety: Supporting the Branch Chair with administration of personal, office and event risk assessments where required

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

· Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.

· Give back to the Armed Forces community.

· Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.

· Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.

· Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would I receive?

· Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.

· Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers

· Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.

· Support from regional volunteering and operations employees

· Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.

· Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

· Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

· Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.

· Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.

· Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.

· Respectful and non-judgemental approach.

· Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.

· This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

· We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

Are references required? Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation, and IT skills.

What is an Administration Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent administrators to keep things running efficiently behind the scenes.

What would you be doing?

• Every SSAFA Branch has different needs, however, below are the main activities of a Branch Administration Coordinator.
• Overseeing enquiries: Overseeing the administration of the branch shared inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered.
• Getting people together: Organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face
• Planning and organising: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to arrange events such as the Branch Annual General Meeting
• Note taking and recording: Maintaining accurate records of meetings and decisions.
• Communicating: Supporting the Branch Chair with internal communications, keeping other volunteers up to date and informed
• Tracking and ordering: Keeping a record of branch assets, ordering stationery, and ensuring maintenance of equipment
• Supporting health and safety: Supporting the Branch Chair with administration of personal, office and event risk assessments where required

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would I receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from regional volunteering and operations employees
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

Are references required? Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No 

Could you help to raise vital funds for SSAFA in your local area? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to get on with all kinds of people and some occasional free time.

What is a Branch Fundraiser?

As part of a local team, our fundraisers represent SSAFA at events, and in public. The role includes helping at fayres, street collections, concerts, quizzes, raffles, sporting events etc.

Why do we need you?

SSAFA branches rely on regular charitable income to fund all the necessities behind our support for clients. This includes volunteer travel expenses, phone bills, publicity and grants for clients in urgent need. A varied programme of fundraising also keeps the SSAFA profile high in the local community, so everyone knows who we are and how we can help.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role involves being out and about at public events and would suit someone looking to give the occasional day, half day or evening to support SSAFA; when and where would be flexible to suit you.

What would you be doing?

Examples of tasks would include:

• Being part of a team with collection/buckets tins at events, supermarkets, shopping centres, etc.
• Acting as a marshal at a public event e.g. handing out water to runners, supervising parking etc.
• Being part of a team running a stall at an event, Armed Forces Day, fayre, county show etc.
• Helping with putting up posters, building gazebos, serving refreshments, packing/unpacking cars etc.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA, engaging people of all backgrounds and interests
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising funds used directly to support clients
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What about training and support?

• Fundraising workshops
• Training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families and personal information safe
• Access to a range of e-learning courses, fundraising guidance and marketing materials
• Local Fundraising Coordinator
• Fundraising Manager (per region)
• Access to the Fundraising and Marketing teams based at our central office
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people
• Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and SSAFA colleagues face-to-face
• Reliable attitude, staying connected the Fundraising Coordinator about your availability
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely
• Access to public transport or a car to get to events

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 16

Please note: If you are under 18 you are not allowed by law to volunteer at a street collection, raffle or an event serving alcohol. If you are under 16, please contact us, you will need to volunteer with a parent or adult responsible for your safety.

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Could you help to raise vital funds for SSAFA in your local area? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to get on with all kinds of people and some occasional free time.

What is a Branch Fundraiser?

As part of a local team, our fundraisers represent SSAFA at events, and in public. The role includes helping at fayres, street collections, concerts, quizzes, raffles, sporting events etc.

Why do we need you?

SSAFA branches rely on regular charitable income to fund all the necessities behind our support for clients. This includes volunteer travel expenses, phone bills, publicity and grants for clients in urgent need. A varied programme of fundraising also keeps the SSAFA profile high in the local community, so everyone knows who we are and how we can help.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role involves being out and about at public events and would suit someone looking to give the occasional day, half day or evening to support SSAFA; when and where would be flexible to suit you.

What would you be doing?

Examples of tasks would include:

• Being part of a team with collection/buckets tins at events, supermarkets, shopping centres, etc.
• Acting as a marshal at a public event e.g. handing out water to runners, supervising parking etc.
• Being part of a team running a stall at an event, Armed Forces Day, fayre, county show etc.
• Helping with putting up posters, building gazebos, serving refreshments, packing/unpacking cars etc.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA, engaging people of all backgrounds and interests
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising funds used directly to support clients
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What about training and support?

• Fundraising workshops
• Training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families and personal information safe
• Access to a range of e-learning courses, fundraising guidance and marketing materials
• Local Fundraising Coordinator
• Fundraising Manager (per region)
• Access to the Fundraising and Marketing teams based at our central office
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people
• Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and SSAFA colleagues face-to-face
• Reliable attitude, staying connected the Fundraising Coordinator about your availability
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely
• Access to public transport or a car to get to events

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 16

Please note: If you are under 18 you are not allowed by law to volunteer at a street collection, raffle or an event serving alcohol. If you are under 16, please contact us, you will need to volunteer with a parent or adult responsible for your safety.

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Volunteering for Sense

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

What your role will involve

You’ll get the opportunity to get involved in a wide range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do. 

When you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

If you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

Administration and Office Support Volunteer 

Team: The Fundraising Team  

Location: Woodhouse Square, Leeds, LS3 1AD  

Time commitment: 1 day a week

_________________________________________________________________________ 

About Candlelighters 

Candlelighters provides financial, emotional and practical support to families affected by childhood cancer in Yorkshire. We support around 150 new families each year and our work ensures the whole family unit is supported in these extraordinary circumstances. 

We support children and their families from diagnosis and throughout their journey, including providing  financial support, practical help in hospital, much needed breaks, as well as emotional and well-being support at our Family Support Centre (The Square) and Family Support Bus.

Purpose of the Role and Key Activities 

Candlelighters needs to fundraise £2million every year to continue providing services to families. The Administration and Office Support Volunteer provides crucial administrative and office support to the Fundraising Team and is central to helping the team raise the money we need to continue supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer in Yorkshire.

Activities vary, but may include 

• Responding to enquiries from supporters via telephone and e-mail

• Providing administrative support and helping to prepare resources, merchandise and equipment for events 

• Taking leadership over the Candlelighters Ebay page. Adding merchandise to sell, liaising with any queries and fulfilling any orders 

• Answering the phone, transferring calls and taking messages 

• Updating the supporter database 

• Writing thank you letters and sending certificates 

• Processing large mailings (including mail merge) and dealing with any returns 

• Franking letters and parcels 

• Arranging courier companies for large deliveries

• Filing (paper and electronic)

• Providing administrative support for events 

• Assisting the Fundraising Team with other tasks and activities as required 

• Send out Merchandise to our fundraisers/Challenge events participants (Running tops, T-Shirts, FR Materials) 

• Research – future challenge events/mailing contacts 

• Preparing Collection Tins/Buckets for use by fundraisers 

• Making up Goody Bags for events 

• Adhering to Candlelighters’ policies and procedures.

Volunteer Requirements 

We are looking for volunteers who 

• Have strong administrative skills 

• Have experience of working in an office environment 

• Have strong IT skills, including the ability to use Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel 

• Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills 

• Have experience of communicating in a professional capacity via telephone, email and in person.

• Are friendly and approachable, whilst also able to maintain professional boundaries 

• Have strong attention to detail

• Are able to work well as part of a team 

• Are able to work independently and use own initiative 

• Are able to lift and carry boxes, equipment and resources

• Are able to climb multiple flights of stairs 

• Are able to follow Candlelighter’s policies and procedures. 

We recognise that family members accessing Candlelighters’ services may wish to volunteer with Candlelighters. However, this particular role is not suitable for family members receiving support from Candlelighters. This is to ensure they are given the best possible care and support without any potential conflict of interest. Other volunteering opportunities can be found on our website.

Support and Benefits 

You will receive: 

• Thorough induction & training to give you the confidence to perform your role well and to the best of your ability 

• Opportunity to develop new and existing skills to help you beyond your involvement with Candlelighters 

• Ongoing support from the Fundraising and HR teams 

• The opportunity to meet lots of new, friendly people 

• The opportunity to expose yourself to new experiences 

• Certain expenses to be reimbursed as agreed with your Volunteer Supervisor, in accordance with our Expenses policy 

• Regular reviews with your Volunteer Supervisor to help you develop in your role 

• Satisfaction in knowing you are making a valuable contribution to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer 

• We can be a reference once you’ve volunteered for three months 

• Access to the MINDFUL EMPLOYER+ 24/7 mental health hotline 

• Charity Worker Discount card 

• Access to The Company Shop 

 Successful applicants will be invited to attend an interview.

Thankyou

Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation, and IT skills.

What is an Administration Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent administrators to keep things running efficiently behind the scenes.

What would you be doing?

• Every SSAFA Branch has different needs, however, below are the main activities of a Branch Administration Coordinator.
• Overseeing enquiries: Overseeing the administration of the branch shared inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered.
• Getting people together: Organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face
• Planning and organising: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to arrange events such as the Branch Annual General Meeting
• Note taking and recording: Maintaining accurate records of meetings and decisions.
• Communicating: Supporting the Branch Chair with internal communications, keeping other volunteers up to date and informed
• Tracking and ordering: Keeping a record of branch assets, ordering stationery, and ensuring maintenance of equipment
• Supporting health and safety: Supporting the Branch Chair with administration of personal, office and event risk assessments where required

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would I receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from regional volunteering and operations employees
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

Are references required? Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation, and IT skills.

What is an Administration Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent administrators to keep things running efficiently behind the scenes.

What would you be doing?

• Every SSAFA Branch has different needs, however, below are the main activities of a Branch Administration Coordinator.
• Overseeing enquiries: Overseeing the administration of the branch shared inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered.
• Getting people together: Organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face
• Planning and organising: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to arrange events such as the Branch Annual General Meeting
• Note taking and recording: Maintaining accurate records of meetings and decisions.
• Communicating: Supporting the Branch Chair with internal communications, keeping other volunteers up to date and informed
• Tracking and ordering: Keeping a record of branch assets, ordering stationery, and ensuring maintenance of equipment
• Supporting health and safety: Supporting the Branch Chair with administration of personal, office and event risk assessments where required

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would I receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from regional volunteering and operations employees
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

Are references required? Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Could you raise SSAFA’s profile in your local area? You just need patience and the ability to get on with a wide range of people and age groups, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be he role for you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Publicity Coordinator?

Publicity Coordinators work with other branch volunteers to develop a Publicity Plan to raise awareness of SSAFA that reaches potential beneficiaries, volunteers, and funders.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all walks of life and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. We’d love the general public to understand what we do and how they can help us. We need to recruit volunteers that reflect our local communities and raise money to fund our work. Could you spare a few hours a week to help us raise awareness?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about building awareness so beneficiaries know who we are and how they can benefit from and access support, promoting volunteer opportunities and encourage people to raise finds and celebrate success. This means that on occasions, you might need to be present at events. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but you can conduct the administration part of this role form home.

What would you be doing?

• Working with other branch volunteers to develop a publicity plan.
• Publicising SSAFA events.
• Work with Marketing/PR staff at central office to develop case studies of clients and volunteers and ensure that SSAFA branding and messaging are consistent.
• Develop and maintain networks with local press, TV and radio outlets through providing press releases, interviews, case studies etc.
• Working with the Digital Team at Central Office to develop and maintain a local on-line presence for the branch via a website and social media channels.
• Keeping a stock of SSAFA publicity materials and distributing them
• Liaising with PR staff at central office or on-call in the event of a PR/press situation.
• Supporting local and national campaigns to recruit new volunteers.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA including all sections of the community in awareness raising
• Adhering to SSAFAs policies and procedures at all times, including safeguarding, volunteering policy, equality, diversity and inclusion, health and safety, data protection and confidentiality.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - communication and marketing workshops.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact.
• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team as well as Marketing and Communication Teams based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good communication skills
• Good written and spoken English.
• Confident to deal with the public, potential clients, volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues – face-to-face, by phone, email or via social media
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Reliable attitude
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely in line with SSADA policies.
• Access to public transport or a car to get to meetings and events.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative).

Is a criminal record check required? No

Looking to become a trustee with a local charity with an excellent track record? Live in or bordering Bedfordshire?

Carers in Bedfordshire is seeking new Trustees with digital, marketing or academic research expertise to shape and grow the Charity.

Digital and AI 

Are you passionate about the power of digital to drive positive change? Can you bring your expertise in digital strategy, innovation, and systems to our forward-thinking board?

Marketing and Comms

Help Amplify a Mission That Matters

Do you believe in the power of voice to spark change? We’re looking for a Marketing Trustee to help us strengthen our brand, sharpen our message, and reach the people who need to hear it most.

Academic and researchTrustee

Bring Evidence and Insight to the Heart of What We Do

We’re seeking a trustee with academic, policy, or research expertise to help us steer a thoughtful, evidence-informed path forward.

Even if you don’t have the specific skills and experience identified above, we are still interested in hearing from motivated individuals who have experience in an area of expertise relevant to the Charity. 

Of particular interest would be:-

• Service provision in health and social care setting
• Clinical expertise especially in a community setting
• Community Fundraising
• HR

Could you help to raise vital funds for SSAFA in your local area? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to get on with all kinds of people and some occasional free time.

What is a Branch Fundraiser?

As part of a local team, our fundraisers represent SSAFA at events, and in public. The role includes helping at fayres, street collections, concerts, quizzes, raffles, sporting events etc.

Why do we need you?

SSAFA branches rely on regular charitable income to fund all the necessities behind our support for clients. This includes volunteer travel expenses, phone bills, publicity and grants for clients in urgent need. A varied programme of fundraising also keeps the SSAFA profile high in the local community, so everyone knows who we are and how we can help.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role involves being out and about at public events and would suit someone looking to give the occasional day, half day or evening to support SSAFA; when and where would be flexible to suit you.

What would you be doing?

Examples of tasks would include:

• Being part of a team with collection/buckets tins at events, supermarkets, shopping centres, etc.
• Acting as a marshal at a public event e.g. handing out water to runners, supervising parking etc.
• Being part of a team running a stall at an event, Armed Forces Day, fayre, county show etc.
• Helping with putting up posters, building gazebos, serving refreshments, packing/unpacking cars etc.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA, engaging people of all backgrounds and interests
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising funds used directly to support clients
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What about training and support?

• Fundraising workshops
• Training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families and personal information safe
• Access to a range of e-learning courses, fundraising guidance and marketing materials
• Local Fundraising Coordinator
• Fundraising Manager (per region)
• Access to the Fundraising and Marketing teams based at our central office
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people
• Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and SSAFA colleagues face-to-face
• Reliable attitude, staying connected the Fundraising Coordinator about your availability
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely
• Access to public transport or a car to get to events

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 16

Please note: If you are under 18 you are not allowed by law to volunteer at a street collection, raffle or an event serving alcohol. If you are under 16, please contact us, you will need to volunteer with a parent or adult responsible for your safety.

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required? No