Peer Support Volunteer Volunteer Roles

Get Out There groups are a growing division of Sense that cater for children between 6 and 16 with complex needs. We provide a 4 hour social setting which caters for children and families who need respite. We offer activities such as games, puzzles, arts and crafts, experiments, cookery and sensory play. We aim to tailor sessions to the needs, interests and abilities of the children we support and put pupil voice at the center of all we do. 

As a volunteer you'll make sure that everyone has a great time and can make the most of the activities on offer. You'll need lots of energy, a warm and welcoming personality and to be happy getting stuck in to a wide range of tasks and activities, all of which make sure that everyone has the best day they can together. 

What your role will involve

• Taking part in activities alongside disabled young people. You could be joining creative activities, movement or sports session, trips out in to the local community or seasonal themed activities. 
• Helping to set up the activities at the start of the day, clear away at the end and keep activities safe, clean and running smoothly throughout.
• Helping to welcome young people to the group, find their way around and between activities, enjoy breaks and lunchtime and generally have a great day with the team and Sense.

A basic / enhanced Disclosure & Barring check will be required for this volunteer role. 

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

• Fun and friendly and confident to meet and spend time with disabled young people.
• Willing to develop the knowledge and skills to communicate with young people who have multi sensory impairments and who may use a wide range of communication methods
• Able to work well in a team and be flexible about the role you play during the day depending on what’s needed by individuals and activities
• Reliable and punctual.
• Committed to providing support in a way that offers choice, independence and dignity
• We welcome volunteers of all ages to this role who are able to create an inclusive and welcoming peer environment for everyone involved in the group. 

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• Induction information to prepare you for your role, a briefing at the start of each event, and lots of on-site support and guidance from our experienced staff team who will be running the day
• Agreed out of pocket expenses to be reimbursed, in line with Sense policy
• The chance to get to know new people, try new activities in your local community and to have lots of fun taking part together 
• To develop new skills and knowledge about communicating and working with children and young people with complex communication needs and multi-sensory impairment 
• To know you’re part of a passionate and committed team making a big difference to how young people are able to get the most out of both new and favourite activities and to have a great time together.
• If you are 16 or 17 we will ask to make contact with a parent or other appropriate adult to share details of your volunteering role, timings and contact / emergency information. 

About us

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. 

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

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. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches 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 leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

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

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• 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 – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• 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 orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• 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 of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

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

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

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. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches 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 leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

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

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• 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 – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• 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 orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• 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 of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

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

Role Title:

Volunteer Activity Assistant

Location:

Cambridge Day Opportunities 

Day/Time required:

Flexible hours and days between Monday to Friday, 9.15am to 3.30pm (start and finish times can be flexible for parents / carers) 

Organisation overview:

Papworth Trust is a leading disability charity. Our vision is a world where disabled people are seen for what they can do, and our mission is for disabled people to have equality, choice and independence.

Service overview:

We offer a rich and diverse programme of recreational, learning and employment opportunities from our centre’s facilities in Cambridge.

We’re a super friendly and welcoming service with enthusiastic, skilled and experienced staff and volunteers who support individuals to achieve their personal goals and aspirations.

Description of role:

• To support customers with higher needs and communication difficulties one-to-one in a group sessions.
• Work alongside our Activities Facilitators to support the delivery of sessions. 

Key tasks:

• To work at the individual customer’s pace in a group, ensuring they can take part in sessions (for example cooking, baking, dance).
• Help the individual customer communicate and interact with the team and their peers.
• To help with confidence building by encouraging and empowering customer to engage, be creative and stay safe.
• Ensure that the individual is included in various aspects of sessions, and during breaks and lunchtime.
• Volunteers will not be engaged in “Regulated Activity” as defined by Schedule 4 to the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (as amended). This includes assisting people with personal or health care, and undertaking activities with children that are not supervised by staff. 

Personal qualities required:

Within this role you will:

• · Have a supportive nature
• · You are outgoing and friendly
• · You will be polite and respectful
• · You are patient and kind
• · You take a calm measured approach to tasks
• · You are a good communicator
• · You are empathetic and resilient

Benefits of volunteering:

• · Become part of a passionate and supportive team.
• · Help make a real difference to the lives of disabled and disadvantaged people.
• · Gain new experiences and develop skills and confidence.
• · Meet new people.
• · Spend your time doing something that is worthwhile and rewarding
• · Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses
• · Certificated training provided to prepare you for your role
• · Day to day support from a designated member of staff
• · Have fun!

Training available:

• 1. Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults
• 2. Child Protection in Health and Social Care
• 3. Equality and Diversity
• 4. Data Protection in Health and Social Care
• 5. Local induction
• 6. Health & Safety

Job title: Grief in Pieces – (Lived Experience) Volunteer  

Responsible to: Grief in Pieces Volunteer and Peer Coordinator 

Hours: Available Monday – Friday  

Location: Remote  

We are seeking a Lived Experience Volunteer to become part of our Grief in Pieces service. By joining Grief in Pieces, you’ll be helping to support others bereaved by suicide. You will play a role in creating positive change by sharing your experience and will make new connections with people with shared experiences.   

About Mind in the City, Hackney and Waltham Forest:  

We are a multi-disciplinary provider of specialist mental health services and a part of the Mind Federation.   

We promote both recovery from ill health for people with recurrent and enduring mental health difficulties and early intervention for those at risk of developing mental health issues, or who struggle with common mental health conditions.   

We currently support around 5,000 people a year through a variety of services focusing on psychological, social, economic and workplace wellbeing, and support minoritised communities.   

 Our values are:  

Connected: Creating a compassionate and supportive community.     

Fair:  We strive for equity- no-one's needs should go unmet.  

Brave: We walk with people, offering help by doing what works - proven or new  

Working with Mind CHWF means you’ll be part of a dedicated, passionate, and professional workforce who cares about the work they do and make a real difference to the lives of the people in the City of London, Hackney, and Waltham Forest.  

We are committed to actively becoming anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind CHWF. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation that recognises different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services.   

We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.   

Those with lived experience of Mental Health are encouraged to apply.  

Value-based Recruitment:   

We know that for various reasons, not everybody who can successfully perform in a role, performs their best under traditional interview/selection procedures. We are therefore seeking ways to breakdown further barriers in our recruitment & selection process.   

Shorted-listed candidates will be provided with some questions to help them prepare for the interview.   

How to apply:   

For more information on the vacancy and how to apply, click the ‘Apply’ button - Please note that we are unable to consider incomplete applications.   

The closing date is by 3rd May 2024, however, please do not delay applying as this advert may close before the stated deadline if we find a suitable applicant for the role.  

We are a disability confident employer. All applicants with a disability, who meet the minimum essential short-listing criteria are guaranteed an interview. If this applies to you, please let us know in your application.  

Your privacy and the security of your data is our top priority. Please take a moment to read through our applicant’s privacy notice.  

Who are we? 

Survivors Can Shine  is a community interest company working to empower and protect children and young people by providing platforms to celebrate and amplify their voices. Bringing communities together to change perceptions around child abuse and create young Ambassadors for Change.

This year's Ambassadors for Change Community event will be held on Saturday May 25th in celebration of International Family Day. We are bringing together children, young people, local youth services and the wider community in collective strength in a positive movement for change. 

'Ambassadors for Change are positive leaders and role models to their peers and an inspiration to the community'. 

What are we looking for? 

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers for The Ambassadors for Change Community Event, supported by BBC Children in Need, taking place on the iconic Hampstead Heath on Saturday, May 25th. We’ll need volunteers to help make the day a success by helping manage the crowds, supporting the local community, answering any queries, and just generally representing Survivors Can Shine. 

Why Volunteer with Survivors Can Shine? 

By volunteering for us, you are part of a positive movement for change that is uplifting children and young people through the power of music. You’ll be part of an uplifting event to mark International Family Day, providing our young people with the opportunity to perform the creative pieces they've been working on and have their voices heard by public figures, the wider community & the Mayor of London who will also be in attendance to hand out the Ambassadors for Change Awards.

You will receive a free enhanced DBS check and Volunteer Safeguarding training that’ll be virtual for 2 hours.

There’s a variety of different tasks to get involved with and it’ll look great on your CV!   

Skills needed: 

• Enthusiasm and a willingness to get stuck in 
• Interpersonal skills 
• Punctuality and reliability

What roles do we need?

• Distribute event materials such as leaflets in your local area 
• Stewards to help control crowds 
• Welcoming & signposting attendees and providing information 
• Act as a Charity ambassador by promoting the event among your friends, family and colleagues 
• Security and first aid 
• Set up and pack down of event 
• Selling raffle tickets

Where and when?

The event takes places on Saturday May 25th from 1:30pm – 4:30pm, meaning that we need volunteers from 9am – 5:30pm (there are various slots throughout the day - you don't need to be available for the whole day!)

Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hills Fields, NW5 1QR 

All volunteers will need to be over 18.

Amazing, giving, inspiring and awesome are just a few of the words we would use to describe our volunteers.

Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.

About the role

Do you have great administration and IT skills and enjoy meeting new people? Want a flexible voluntary role that allows you to make a difference to peoples’ lives? Then read on!

We are looking for a Volunteer On-line Meeting Assistant to support the Head of Area (Central Region) with organising and preparing for monthly and quarterly virtual meetings, and on occasion events or conferences. 

You will be remote based at home, with some occasional travel for face-to-face meetings (expenses reimbursed), and ideally will be able to commit up to 4 hours per week to volunteering, during usual office hours Monday to Friday. 

You will receive training and regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role.

What you will be doing as a Volunteer On-line Meeting Assistant

The majority of meetings are held virtually on-line via MS Teams.  You will support the Head of Area (and meeting Chair) by:

• Co-ordinating meeting invitations (via MS Teams), attendee registration and apologies
• Distributing documents in advance of meetings
• Take notes of the meeting and share these with attendees, eg, updating SharePoint
• General meeting support,  share any slides, launch polls and set up break out rooms as required during virtual meetings
• Co-ordinate and collate post event evaluations and feedback
• Develop and maintain information systems, eg, attendee contact details and distribution lists

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• Experience of note taking
• Good listening & orgnisational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft office packages, Outlook and MS Teams
• Good time management skills and the ability to prioritise work
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Warm, friendly, empathetic and able to connect with people from a range of backgrounds

Who are we?

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”

Role Title:

Activity Assistant  

Location:

Basildon Day Opportunities

Day/Time required:

Monday to Friday, 9.15am to 3.30pm (start and finish times can be flexible for parents / carers)

Organisation overview:

Papworth Trust is a leading disability charity. Our vision is a world where disabled people are seen for what they can do, and our mission is for disabled people to have equality, choice and independence.

Service overview:

We offer a rich and diverse programme of recreational, learning and employment opportunities from our centre’s facilities in Basildon and the wider communities of Essex.

Situated close to the town centre, we benefit from excellent links to local transport and neighbouring community projects.

We’re a super friendly and welcoming service with enthusiastic, skilled and experienced staff and volunteers who support individuals to achieve their personal goals and aspirations.

Description of role:

To support customers with higher needs and communication difficulties one-to-one in a group sessions.

Work alongside our Activities Facilitators to support the delivery of sessions. 

Key tasks:

To work at the individual customer’s pace in a group, ensuring they can take part in sessions (for example cooking, baking, dance).

Help the individual customer communicate and interact with the team and their peers.

To help with confidence building by encouraging and empowering customer to engage, be creative and stay safe.

Ensure that the individual is included in various aspects of sessions, and during breaks and lunchtime.

Volunteers will not be engaged in “Regulated Activity” as defined by Schedule 4 to the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (as amended). This includes assisting people with personal or health care, and undertaking activities with children that are not supervised by staff. 

A DBS check will be required as part of this role and will be carried out during the vetting checks of successful applicants.  

Personal qualities required:

Within this role you:

• Will have a supportive nature
• Are outgoing and friendly
• Will be polite and respectful
• Are patient and kind
• Take a calm measured approach to tasks
• Are a good communicator
• Are empathetic and resilient

Benefits of volunteering:

• Become part of a passionate and supportive team.
• Help make a real difference to the lives of disabled and disadvantaged people.
• Gain new experiences and develop skills and confidence.
• Meet new people.
• Spend your time doing something that is worthwhile and rewarding
• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses
• Certificated training provided to prepare you for your role
• Day to day support from a designated member of staff
• Have fun!

Training available:

1. Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults
2. Child Protection in Health and Social Care
3. Equality and Diversity
4. Data Protection in Health and Social Care
5. Local induction
6. Health & Safety

English Conversation Club Volunteer 

Role Summary:  

We are looking for volunteers to facilitate our new English Conversation Club working in partnership with SAVTE (Sheffield Association for the Voluntary Teaching of English). The Conversation Club will support clients to enhance their English language skills and to understand how to respond to real life situations. Clients who are learning English as a second language will access the Conversation Club to learn and practice words and phrases that will benefit them in their daily lives. Each week you will prepare a relevant topic to discuss with clients. The topics will range from typical daily conversations to more specific housing related interactions.

Our expert partners SAVTE run various Conversation Clubs across the city. SAVTE will provide ongoing training for the role with access to a conversation group volunteers network and insightful events to meet with other peers. Shelter will facilitate the Conversation Club and manage the volunteer roles. This is a great opportunity to work alongside two forward-thinking Charities who are looking at innovative ways to improve people’s lives.

Volunteers must be passionate about helping others to make positive and meaningful changes in their lives. This role is perfect for individuals who have a passion for upskilling others, enjoy facilitating learning in an interactive and enriching environment, and can organise resources that offer purposeful conversation topics for clients.

Suggested Involvement: 2 hrs per week (30 mins preps, 1hr 30 mins session) 

Availability: This volunteering opportunity will take place within our working hours, Monday-Friday, 9-5. 

Location: Shelter Hub

Supervised by: Volunteer Coordinator 

Why volunteer with Shelter? 

Shelter helps millions of people every year struggling with bad housing or homelessness through our advice, support, and legal services. And we campaign to make sure that, one day, no one will have to turn to us for help. We're here so no one has to fight bad housing or homelessness on their own. 

The Conversation Club is a new offer Shelter is delivering in partnership with SATVE. Shelter is aware that people with English as a second language have greater barriers to accessing help, support and acting on their rights. The Conversation Club aims to empower individuals to break down barriers they are facing and tackle discrimination within the housing system. The opportunity will also offer clients the chance to expand their understanding of the English Language and help them integrate into their communities, increase their employment prospects, and have other beneficial factors such as parents supporting children with their homework. This is a fantastic opportunity to offer individuals support to make transformative steps in their lives and join an exciting new initiative.

Main Tasks 

• Initiate and facilitate a weekly Conversation Group with suitable topical discussions, ensuring participants involvement. 

• Willing and able to work with participants from diverse cultures and background  

• Manage or facilitate conversations in a group and provide positive guidance and encouragement.

• Refer any safeguarding issues or concerns to Shelter and SAVTE.

• Collect participants feedback and own comments and suggestions to improve sessions. 

• Working with other volunteers to deliver sessions and ideas and resources and best practice. 

Skills and Abilities required:  

• Enthusiasm to support people to learn and empower them to improve their lives. 

• Ability to facilitate discussion and involve the whole group in the conversations. 

• An organised individual who will prepare the conversation topics on a weekly basis. 

• Patience in communicating with individuals who speak English as a second language. 

• Be friendly, welcoming, respectful, and have a positive attitude.

• Capacity to clearly relay information to others and communicate topics effectively.

• Willing to work with other people sharing ideas to enable the groups continued learning.

• Willingness to work with SAVTE to increase your knowledge and learn from other established conversation group volunteers. 

Learning & Development 

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

• Provide you with a Volunteer Handbook 

• Provide a local induction into your role 

• Provide access to eLearning including Equality & Diversity, Health & Safety, Data Protection, Environmental Awareness and Safeguarding 

• Provide access to our other training appropriate to your role 

Benefits of Volunteering with Shelter 

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness 

• Gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV 

• Be part of a great team 

• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills 

Hours: 4 hours per week, Monday – Saturday

Location: Croydon Health and Wellbeing Space – Whitgift Centre, Croydon (and other locations that may be used in the future)

As part of the Croydon Health and Wellbeing Space we are recruiting for volunteers who understand how connecting people to local services improves their mental health and wellbeing. You’ll be welcoming people into the space and helping to support people with mental health problems by signposting them to local organisations that meet their mental health and wellbeing needs.  

You’ll need to be able to establish good relationships with people from different backgrounds and have some understanding of mental health and what resources there are locally.

We’ll support and train you as one of our volunteers, which could be the first step of a new career in mental health.

To apply please send your CV and a short Covering Letter explaining:

• Why would you like to apply for this role?
• How your skills and experience relate to the competencies in the Person Specification of the role description?
• What benefits you can bring to the role?

At Mind in Croydon we value diversity and we're committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone is able to be themselves and to reach their full potential. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures.

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

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. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches 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 leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

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

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• 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 – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• 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 orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• 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 of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

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

Are you a passionate researcher who wants to make a real difference to the lives of animals and humans? We’re seeking talented experts to join our Scientific Advisory Panel and help us accelerate the development and adoption of non-animal research methods.

To reflect the diversity of technological approaches that replacing animals in science requires, we’re looking to grow our Scientific Advisory Panel and would like you to be part of it.

Our current panel is made up of 32 generous and talented professionals who give their time and expertise to help our mission: ensuring scientists use non-animal approaches in biomedical research and testing.

By volunteering on our panel, you’ll not only be a valued member of our charity, you’ll also have the opportunity to network with other experts, have your say on groundbreaking research, and influence real-world change.

“I feel very honoured to be part of this community. I hope I can support the charity in any way possible as I strongly believe we can at least greatly reduce the number of animals used in scientific research.” Current Scientific Advisory Panel member

The role: The main responsibilities of your role will include:

• Supporting the grant review process by undertaking peer review of grant applications.
• Advising and supporting the staff team in monitoring funded projects.
• Supporting our strategic goals of funding research, sharing information and creating change.
• Helping to champion FRAME’s mission and charitable purpose.

Estimated hours: Approx. ½ day – 4 days per year. We’ll need your expertise during late April to early May, and late September through October to review grant applications.

Experience desired: We’re looking for panel members with scientific research experience most likely from an industry or academic background. This experience may relate to basic, translational, applied research, or regulatory testing in any area that is, or would benefit from human-relevant methods. This includes areas where laboratory animals have been used historically or are still widely used today but non-animal approaches are now being developed. Our current panel includes experts from such varied fields as bone tissue engineering and metabolomics through to neuropharmacology and ecotoxicology, and we welcome applications from diverse specialisms. The greater the diversity, the better!

Please note: All applicants should hold a PhD and be a named author on at least one published paper in a relevant research area.

Marie Curie Helper is a professional service provided by trained volunteers who offer one-to-one companionship and support to people with a terminal illness and their families. 

To enable us to reach more people who would benefit from our support we need help to;

• Raise awareness and knowledge of the Helper service
• Ensure that people who are referred to the Helper service are appropriately assessed
• Increase our number of trained Helper volunteers and ensure they are well supported in their role.
• Demonstrate Marie Curie values; always compassionate, making things happen, leading in our field, people at our heart
• Support volunteers in training, offering 1:1 support and facilitating peer support groups 
• Organise social events and engagement activities for volunteers 
• Provide cover for Helper volunteers, offering companionship and emotional support, practical support and short breaks for carers

With support from their Volunteer Coordinator a Lead Volunteer will play an important part in supporting the Helper service to reach more people within their own local community.

Your role will mainly be based in your local community and may include some of, but is not restricted to, the following typical tasks:

• Assess terminally ill people and/or their carers either in their own home, nursing or residential care to identify their needs and determine if the Marie Curie Helper service would be appropriate for them. 
• Provide cover for Helper volunteers, offering companionship and emotional support, practical support and short breaks for carers.  You may be supporting your client’s family or carers before or during bereavement.  This may involve offering emotional support, signposting to relevant local support services or finding out information as requested
• Driving clients to pre-arranged health or social care (eg to chemotherapy appointments or day therapy at the hospice)
• Follow all mandatory procedures that form part of the Helper service. 
• Provide cover as a lone worker Buddy to support Helper volunteers, as needed
• Keeping up to date with Helper service guidance and best practice 
• Liaising with existing and potential referrers to the Helper service
• Liaising with clients and their families via telephone
• Promoting the Helper volunteer role including (with training/approval) media activity 
• Helping with the recruitment of new volunteers, including interviews and selection 
• Keeping accurate records
• Liaising regularly with the Volunteer Coordinator and other team members
• Reporting concerns and celebrating compliments and successes 
• Assisting with evaluations and development of the Helper service
• Help with other related tasks when necessary 

ABOUT US

Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and  6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left. 

Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work.  We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.

Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.

Researcher (voluntary)

Real are running a study into disability and wellbeing, and we are looking for D/deaf and Disabled people to train as field researchers to support the work.

We plan to interview 1000 Disabled people across London over two years using a tool validated by the World Health Organisation. The tool analyses the impact that different services and interventions have on Disabled people’s wellbeing, and each interview participant will receive a personalized report on what the tool says about them after the interview.

This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in research that will have both a great personal impact for the participants and that will provide the evidence base to make services better for everyone.

No experience in interviewing or research is needed to volunteer. Instead, you will receive:

• In-depth training in interview and research skills, GDPR compliance, safeguarding and disability equality.

• A DBS check if you do not have this already.

• A £40 voucher for the retailer of your choice after completing the training and 5 interviews, and more vouchers the more interviews that you do.

• Access to a peer support network for trainee researchers, with meetings held quarterly.

You need to be 18 or older and live in London to volunteer with the project, and you will need to be comfortable conducting the interviews. You must also have lived experience of disability and be available for at least half of one weekday per week, as not all interviews can be scheduled in the evenings or weekends.