Programmes support volunteer volunteer roles in south hampstead, greater london

Providing a confidential non-judgemental listening ear to Residents and Staff. Supporting those wishing to develop their spiritual journey from a Christian perspective. The role will be based across one of our hostels in Watford, Borehamwood, Bishop's Stortford, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield or High Wycombe, 

Activities include:

• Proactively engaging with Residents and staff to build safe relationships and trust
• Offering a ‘listening ear’ to all and giving emotional support
• Sensitively discerning when to offer prayer and support from a Christian perspective, and when to use faith based language
• Be inclusive and welcoming to people of all religious faiths and none, referring people to other faith communities as appropriate
• Working alongside support staff, volunteers & local agencies
• Maintaining records of support and feeding back concerns about Resident welfare to Staff/Line Manager.
• Attend regular volunteer team meetings
• Being proactive in seeking spiritual and emotional support for your own benefit as this is a challenging role.

Additional activities could include:

• Facilitating group work for example: Retreat Programme, Bible Study, prayer or Mental Health Support.
• Welcoming new Residents by phone or in person
• Leading or helping with Chaplaincy lead events: Easter/Christmas activities, Remembrance Services
• Being an ambassador for YMCA’s mission in local Churches

Skills/Qualities/Experience:

• Be a good and active listener who can support others
• Be of a friendly, welcoming and cheerful disposition
• Self-motivated, reliable and punctual
• Sensitivity and courage to care for people experiencing a range of distressing situations including: grief, trauma, poor mental health, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts.
• A commitment to your own spiritual development
• A good understanding of the Christian faith, as well as some understanding of other faith traditions
• Ability to use both faith and non-faith based language, as appropriate
• Good communication skills in English; in person & over the phone
• A willingness to learn new things and get stuck in
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Respect the Christian ethos of the YMCA and uphold its values
• Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have

Training Support:

• A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided
• A one day ‘Chaplaincy Essentials’ training, plus a menu of additional training will be made available
• Online training: Safeguarding (Adults & Young People), Fire Awareness, Manual Handling
• Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings with your line-manager
• Team meetings and social events
• Mileage and expenses may be payable

You will need 2 x references and a DBS (we will apply for and fund this). 

Could you be a star baker, master chef or perhaps you simply enjoy baking or cooking! We are recruiting for a volunteer to join our team supporting individuals to learn new recipes together as a group.

Baking and cooking helps to relax, get creative and indulge in our senses. Often, it can spark nostalgia and helps us to recreate positive experiences or memories. Inspire and motivate people in our services to do something that brings joy, an opportunity to learn new skills whilst connecting with others over sharing baked goods and delicious meals.

What you will be doing

• Research and plan new recipes for cooking/baking sessions in collaboration with the group each week
• Encourage individuals to participate in the sessions and delegate cooking tasks
• Support individuals to shop for ingredients needed for the session
• Support individuals each week in setting up for the sessions and tidying away afterwards
• Encourage individuals to participate in all aspects of the planning and attendance
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback and report any concerns to the staff team

The skills you need

• Food Safety Certificate/knowledge or willingness to complete relevant training
• Passion and knowledge of healthy eating and cooking
• Ability to engage, encourage and motivate individuals to participate in sessions
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere

What's in it for you

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

About the role: Advocacy Placement Volunteering You will be providing remote (office based/virtual) advocacy support for people impacted by hoarding behaviour (PwHB) who may be facing a variety of situations including legal, financial, psychological and discriminatory abuse/neglect. You will be working with trained colleagues to alleviate housing, benefits, mental health and other problems experienced by HUK's participants. HoardingUK (HUK) works to bring services together to improve person-centred, cost effective and time managed support.

The role: • Volunteer at HUK a minimum of one half-day (4 hours) each week. • Provide timely support to those using the service . • Maintain a caseload of up to three clients at each advice session. • Comply with HUK's case-management procedures, training programme and other relevant policies and procedures. • Work collaboratively to create an action plan with participants and professionals. • Assist in facilitating phone, correspondence, emails to statutory services and others. • Signpost to relevant external services based on participant need. • Keep accurate records. • Promote choice and control.

Who should apply

: • Trainees/professionals with interest/experience in mental health, housing, social care, legal frameworks, etc. • Passionate people committed to standing for rights. • People with lived experience of mental health and/or hoarding behaviour. • The ability to work sensitively and professionally with people who may be facing a variety of situations including discriminatory abuse and systemic neglect. • A commitment to values of HoardingUK Training on hoarding behaviour, advocacy and other relevant areas will be provided.

TWO DIFFERENT POSITIONS AVAILABLE!

About Us – Bigger Than Us

Bigger Than Us is a bold and heart-led initiative that supports early-stage nonprofit and social enterprise founders, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, through immersive in-person intensives and residencies. We create spaces for mission-driven leaders to grow their organisations, connect with like-minded changemakers, and sustain themselves while doing purpose-led work.

We believe building a better world shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. That’s why our programs focus on strategy and sustainability as well as wellness, leadership development, and community building.

Volunteer Role: Administrative Assistant

Location: Remote (with occasional Zoom check-ins)
Time Commitment: 4–6 hours/week (flexible)

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a detail-oriented and highly organised Administrative Assistant volunteer to support the smooth running of our July Intensive and general operations. You’ll work closely with the founder and the partnerships lead to help coordinate logistics, manage communications, and keep everything on track behind the scenes.

Key Responsibilities

• Help manage participant and speaker communication (emailing, scheduling reminders, etc.)

• Track sign-ups, responses, and forms in spreadsheets or Airtable

• Support with workshop scheduling and calendar invites

• Assist with meeting notes and light project management

• General admin tasks as needed to support program delivery

We’d Love to Hear From You If:

• You’re reliable, proactive, and love getting things organised

• You enjoy supporting a small but passionate team

• You’re familiar with Google Drive, Calendars, and can pick up tools like Airtable quickly

• You care about social justice, equity, or nonprofit work

• Bonus: You’ve worked in admin or operations before (not required!)

Volunteer Role: Community Outreach Lead

Location: Remote
Time Commitment: 3-6 hours/week (flexible, but some daytime availability is helpful)

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a creative, people-loving Community Outreach Lead volunteer to help us expand our reach. You’ll be responsible for finding and connecting with early-stage nonprofit founders who would benefit from the Bigger Than Us Intensive. This is a great role if you enjoy relationship building and believe deeply in equity and representation in the social impact space.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and identify mission-aligned founders, organisations, and networks

• Reach out to prospective participants via email or LinkedIn

• Support follow-ups and manage a simple outreach tracker

• Help build and maintain relationships with community partners

• Share ideas for how we can reach and engage diverse communities

We’d Love to Hear From You If:

• You’re a great communicator and feel confident reaching out to new people

• You’re passionate about equity, justice, and supporting underrepresented founders

• You’re organised and consistent with follow-ups

• You enjoy storytelling and can convey the spirit of our work warmly and clearly

• Bonus: You’ve worked in community outreach, partnerships, or engagement before

What You’ll Get From Volunteering With Us

• A chance to work closely with a visionary founder, building a growing movement

• Mentorship and experience in nonprofit management, program delivery, and/or partnerships

• Impact—you’ll be helping early-stage founders access something transformative

• A supportive and values-led environment where your voice matters

We look forward to receiving your application!

The role: Our scholars are eager to meet graduates and professionals who can support them in achieving their ambitions. Mentors are mainly responsible for providing support and career advice to pupils. Mentors must also be committed to supporting us at our events, which take place in the evenings and on Saturdays throughout the term. These events include our scholar enrichment days, our parent and pupil information sessions and our volunteer social events which are held in London. 

Availability: Mentors must be available for approximately 2-3 hours a month to meet with their mentee, and discuss via phone, email or in person. There is a minimum commitment of one year (three terms).

In addition to this, you will need to support a minimum of 2 events throughout the year. Enrichment and skill-building events for our scholars usually take place in the evenings and at weekends, with events ranging from 2-8 hours in length.

Location: Mentoring sessions and events can take place online or in person.

Responsibilities: 

• Working collaboratively with parents to give students guidance and advice on how to achieve their aspirations

• Informing pupils of opportunities to them so that they can achieve their aspirations

• Meeting with pupils for one to one mentoring sessions

• Supporting pupils with university, sixth form or job applications

• Monitoring and reporting on each pupils progress

• Giving feedback to parents and programme coordinators

• Working collaboratively with other tutors and mentors

• Supporting at events including:

  • Collaborate effectively with other volunteers within the events team

  • Assist with setting up and clearing up at events

  • Support workshop facilitators with managing groups of young people or parents

  • Assist with the coordination of lunch or refreshments for attendees

  • Assist the event coordinator with ensuring the health and safety of attendees and overall risk management at events

  • Give feedback to the event coordinators and programme managers at the end of each event.

Person specification:

• Be passionate and committed to tackling educational inequality

• Enjoy working with children and young people

• Be educated to a minimum of degree level or equivalent

• Possess strong communication skills both written and verbal

• Be punctual and organised

• Be able to remain calm under pressure

• Have excellent time management skills

INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE) 

CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings  

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

• CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.
• The reading group is in Tooting and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education.
• Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.
• The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.
• The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.
• Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.
• Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates. 

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources; 

• Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;  

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• * Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.  

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry 

• The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months; 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish; 

• Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

Background to the role:

Keep Active is a volunteer-delivered project at The Creighton Centre, which aims to provide support to older people (60+) who have had a fall, stroke or other illness.  We work in partnership with the NHS Community Rehabilitation Service across Hammersmith & Fulham. As a Keep Active Volunteer you would visit an older person (the average age is 84) once a week for up to nine weeks to help them with improving mobility indoors with exercises, or outdoors with walks in their community. This project aims to empower people to get back to independence, access community once more and reduce risks of future falls and hospital re-admittance.

Availability/commitment:

· To live in or near Hammersmith and Fulham, or travel regularly through

· To be able to spare 1-2 hours a week, preferably during working hours

Role of the Keep Active Volunteer:

· To attend an initial one-off training session [with Volunteer Coordinator and therapists from NHS rehabilitation teams].

· To visit an older person’s home once a week for up to 9 weeks to supervise and motivate them to continue practicing their exercise and walking goals, as prescribed by NHS rehabilitation teams.

· Support might include:

- A walk around their local community possibly going to the park or visiting shops.

- Encouraging them to complete a prescribed gentle exercise program.

- Keeping an older and sometimes isolated person company.

- Visiting someone in their homes to help them reach their exercise goals.

NB: Please note that this is a volunteer role and you will not be expected to provide any physical support. This is a motivational role only.

We will provide:

· Induction training and NHS Community Rehabilitation led training (weekday training).

· Regular contact and support from the project staff.

· Occasional social events for volunteers

· Occasional training opportunities for volunteers

· A reference after 3-6 months of volunteering with us

· An enhanced DBS check

· Reimbursement of travel expenses incurred during your volunteering

Skills needed:

· Good listening and communication skills and a good level of spoken English.

· Empathy and a kind and patience approach.

· Enthusiasm and commitment.

· A friendly personality.

· The desire to make a positive difference to someone’s health and wellbeing

· Ability to cope with clients who are unwell.

· A positive attitude towards empowering and improving the lives of older people

· An understanding of and commitment to our policies (including: Confidentiality, Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities)

Accountable to:

Keep Active Coordinator

We are launching REMIX, a bold new youth charity in East London (Tower Hamlets, Hackney, and Newham), and we need YOU to help make a difference!

At REMIX, we believe every young person deserves the chance to shine - no barriers, no limits. We’re here to bridge the gap, providing powerful after-school tutoring, life-changing mentorship, and dynamic enrichment programmes that will unlock potential, build confidence, and inspire lifelong success.

But we’re not doing this alone! REMIX is about community, collaboration, and championing young talent. That’s why we’re teaming up with local schools, families, and community leaders to ensure every young person, no matter their background, can thrive, dream big, and achieve more.

We’re looking for a visionary Volunteer, Graphic Designer to craft promotional materials that vividly tell our story—both across digital platforms and in print.

In this role, you will:

• Create Dynamic Digital Content: Design engaging visuals for our social media channels, website, email campaigns, and digital advertising. Your work will help articulate our mission online and captivate our audience.

• Design Impactful Print Collateral: Develop eye-catching posters, flyers, brochures, banners, and other promotional materials for events and in-person outreach. Your designs will be the face of REMIX at community events, inspiring confidence and interest.

• Develop Brand Identity: Collaborate with our team to refine a cohesive visual style that resonates with young Londoners. You’ll ensure that every piece, whether digital or physical, consistently reflects our core message: INSPIRE. EMPOWER. TRANSFORM.

• Innovate and Inspire: Stay current on design trends and emerging techniques to bring fresh, creative ideas to the table. Your innovative mindset will help us continually evolve and stand out in both the physical and online arenas.

• Work Collaboratively: Engage closely with our team, contributing your expertise to shape campaigns that drive engagement and deepen our impact on the community.

If you’re a creative visionary with a robust portfolio and proficiency in design tools like Adobe Creative Suite (or similar software), REMIX offers you an extraordinary chance to use your skills for social good. Your artistic talent will be a key driver in promoting our mission, encouraging youth involvement, and strengthening our presence both online and in-person.

Empower. Elevate. Remix the future.

This is your chance to be part of something extraordinary. Join us, support us, and help shape the future—one young person at a time!

Let’s REMIX the possibilities and create a legacy that lasts!

We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria.

Job Description:

Quilombo UK is looking for a Bid Writer - Commercial Proposal Volunteer to join their team. Quilombo UK is a not for profit social enterprise that challenges people to think differently and bridge gaps between communities, with the aim of building a culturally rich society, where differences are accepted and celebrated. As chosen among 160 other organizations to work in collaboration with the Home Office on the “Building a Stronger Britain together” project, you will be joining a team, which not only supports the community but also stands up to extremism in all of its forms.

By joining Quilombo UK and QMC Capoeira School you will be supported and guided by experienced staff and volunteers, who are willing to share their skill set and will provided you with great opportunities for development in many different areas.

Ideal candidates will assist Quilombo UK in preparing funding bids that contribute to their further development. They should be well-organized, with a proactive attitude to deliver work that adheres to the key objectives of the organization. Candidates should be willing to volunteer at least 12 hours a week, for a duration of 16 weeks.

You will be volunteering as part of the team who are responsible for creating the bids to attract funding for our new or existing projects. The role will involve discussing project ideas and proposals with the management & project teams, searching for the right funding opportunities and preparing bids for submission.

You will work as part of an experienced team, where writing skills and experience in crafting persuasive and compelling content are essential.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and write commercial proposals tailored to meet the specific requirements of clients and align with business objectives.
• Review and revise previously created proposals to ensure accuracy, coherence, and alignment with current business strategies.
• Collaborate closely with other team members, partners, and stakeholders to produce high-quality bid responses, compelling content, and effective key messages that align with win themes.
• Assist in establishing a comprehensive proposal development strategy.
• Propose innovative ideas for bid submissions in line with the established strategy and market demands.
• Collect, organize, and analyze all relevant information to be included in the proposals.
• Manage a detailed “bid plan” and ensure all proposals are approved and submitted before the stipulated deadlines.

Skills and Attributes:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word.
• Ability to work with Excel is an advantage; support will be provided if necessary.
• Excellent writing skills with a strong understanding of persuasive writing and narrative structure.
• Focused, organized, and able to work efficiently under tight deadlines.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
• Some understanding of commercial market trends and research processes.

Perks:

• A supportive working environment providing opportunities to develop your skills and experience in commercial bid writing.
• Work alongside seasoned professionals eager to share their expertise.
• On-site training programs to help you grow your skill set.
• A casual yet professional office setting with snacks and drinks provided.

Job Type: Part-time

Expected hours: 12 per week

Benefits: Work from home

Schedule:

• Flexitime
• No weekends

Experience:

• Bid writer: 1 year (preferred)

Location:

• Remote (preferred)

Work Location: Remote

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

WHO WE ARE
We are a Kingston-based social enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion. Encouraging different cultures to unite enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. Partnering with cultural, social and sports organisation's, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. Our findings are supported by educational opportunities designed to broaden perspectives.

Ready for an adventure? Dive into the heart of Quilombo UK by exploring our website and videos! Discover our mission, values and the impactful work we do to make a difference in our community.

Your journey with purpose begins here

Join us in creating positive change!

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Join our dynamic team as a Volunteer HR Recruiter and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our non-profit Organisation. As a key member of our Human Resources team, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end recruitment process, ensuring the acquisition of talented individuals passionate about our mission. Your expertise will contribute to building a dedicated and skilled workforce, enabling us to impact the community positively. This role offers a unique opportunity to utilise your HR recruitment skills for a meaningful cause while gaining valuable experience in the non-profit sector.

Collaborate with hiring managers to identify hiring needs and implement effective sourcing strategies,
Interview and Selection
Build and maintain a strong talent pipeline.
Conduct initial screening interviews to effectively evaluate the candidates’ skill set and cultural fit while providing an engaging experience.
Foster positive relationships with candidates, keeping them informed about the status of their applications.
Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws and regulations.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date candidate records and recruitment metrics.

 REQUIRED SKILLS:

Proven experience as an HR Recruiter or in a similar role
Familiarity with job boards and professional social platforms
Strong understanding of recruitment processes and employment laws
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Office based skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Excellent time management and organisational skills
Strong marketing and negotiation skills
Outstanding teamwork skills and ability to create relationships at all levels, showing respect to different types of people.
Professionalism and Confidentiality

WHAT WE OFFER:

Opportunity for professional growth and development in Recruitment and other HR departments depending on your knowledge and learning aptitude.
A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and innovation.
Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday to Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Contract length: 16 weeks

Expected hours: No less than 12 per week

Benefits:

• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Flexitime

Work Location: Remote

Amazing, giving, and inspiring are a few 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

We are looking for Volunteer Befrienders to support our Brent Mental Health service in the London Borough of Brent. 

As a Volunteer Befriender, you will be required to travel across Brent to meet with service users and carry out your role. Ideally, you will be able to commit a minimum of 2 hours per week to volunteering. 

You will be supported by Befriending Volunteer Coordinators who will provide regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role. You can read more about the benefits of volunteering on the full advert on our website.

About the service

Our Brent Mental Health service provides support to people aged 18 and above who live in the Borough of Brent, and who have a mental illness and are known to the local NHS trust, Central and North West London (CNWL).

The aim of the Befriending Service is to;

• Reduce social isolation of service users
• Increase the confidence of service users in accessing community resources independently
• Provide meaningful activities and peer support for service users 
• Help service users to live happier, healthier, independent lives
• Provide volunteering opportunities for people with mental health issues
• Reduce stigma and raise mental health awareness

What you will be doing as a Volunteer Befriender:

• Meeting with service users in locations and times which meet their needs (including evenings and weekends)
• Provide befriending support to a maximum of 2 service users at any one time
• Provide emotional support based on your own lived experience
• Support service users to access and build social and community networks and activities
• Act as a community connector to local services

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• You will have good communication skills
• You will be flexible in order to meet the needs of the service users

If you would like to express an interest in this opportunity, please complete an application as soon as possible, as the advert may close early if we receive a high level of interest.

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.”    

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.    

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion  

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.  

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation  

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.  

We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. 

About the Community Food Hub

Our Community Food Hub is dedicated to providing nutritious food to those in need while fostering a strong sense of community. We offer a sustainable model that involves food donations, partnerships with local organisations, and volunteer-led initiatives to ensure that food insecurity is addressed effectively and with care.

We are seeking passionate and skilled individuals to join our Board of Directors. If you have knowledge of food systems, a strong network, or experience in volunteer recruitment and community development, we would love to hear from you!

Role Overview

As a Board Member, you will play a vital role in guiding the strategic direction of the food hub. Your contributions will ensure that the hub continues to support the community through partnerships, volunteer recruitment, and maximising food resources for those who need them most.

Key Responsibilities

•Strategic Input: Contribute to the overall strategic vision of the Food Hub and its programs.

•Food Systems Knowledge: Share insights on food sourcing, sustainability, and distribution to ensure the hub operates efficiently and ethically.

•Networking: Leverage your connections within the food industry, local businesses, and community organisations to secure partnerships and support for the Hub’s initiatives.

•Volunteer Recruitment & Engagement: Help recruit, train, and retain volunteers to ensure smooth day-to-day operations of the hub.

•Community Outreach & Partnerships: Forge relationships with local agencies, schools, and organisations to enhance community engagement and food distribution efforts.

•Fundraising & Awareness: Support fundraising efforts by connecting the hub with donors, sponsors, and funding opportunities to sustain its operations.

•Oversight: Attend board meetings and contribute to decision-making that ensures the hub meets its goals and remains compliant with local regulations.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for individuals who have:

•Knowledge of Food Systems (e.g., food sourcing, distribution, nutrition, sustainability).

•Networking Skills: Ability to connect with local businesses, organisations, and individuals who can support the Hub.

•Experience in Partnerships: Proven ability to foster relationships with external stakeholders, including local food banks, schools, and community organisations.

•Volunteer Recruitment and Engagement: Experience in recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers.

•Interest in Community Development: Passion for making a tangible difference in addressing food insecurity and supporting community well-being.

Commitment

•Time Commitment: 6–10 hours per month (flexible)

•Location: Hybrid (Remote and in-person board meetings)

•Term: Minimum one-year commitment (renewable)

•Board meetings occur quarterly, with additional time as required for planning or networking

What You’ll Gain

•The opportunity to be part of a growing initiative that tackles food insecurity in your community.

•Experience in nonprofit governance, strategic planning, and community outreach.

•Access to a wide network of professionals, organisations, and partners in the food and nonprofit sectors.

•Personal satisfaction knowing you’ve helped nourish your community and support those in need.

How to Apply

To express your interest in joining the Board of Directors, please send your CV or a brief letter of interest to:

Subject: Board Member Application

We value diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Join us in creating a future where everyone has access to nutritious food and a strong, connected community.

FCCT are looking for volunteer mentors to play a supportive role by actively mentoring young offenders (aged 15-30 in HMP/YOI Feltham) and to offer support under the ‘7 pathways to Reducing Reoffending’:

FCCT offer support under the seven pathways to reducing reoffending, including signposting to relevant organisations:

• Accommodation
• Education, Training and Employment (ETE)
• Health
• Drug and Alcohol Misuse
• Finance, Benefits and Debts
• Children & Families
• Attitudes, Thinking and Behaviour
• Faith

Our aim is to help young people overcome hardships and make the positive transition back into wider society and to help to reduce reoffending rates.

Scope of Volunteer Main Role and Duties (not exhaustive):

Mentoring Arm:

1. Work through a ‘Discharge List’ systematically, cross referencing with the Operations Manager, so as not to duplicate any work or contact with the young people.
2. Hand out and (where needed) help complete ‘Questionnaires’ given to young people from the ‘Discharge List’, in order to ascertain what type of job or education sector the young person would be interested in going into. Forms to be given to the Operations Manager afterwards.
3. Follow up with a one-to-one session – register the young person to the FCCT programme and completing relevant paperwork, which will include our ‘Client Profile Form’ and ‘Consent Form’.
4. Update a shared ‘Client Spreadsheet’ which will be used to capture data information, as to the young people that FCCT are engaging with.
5. If required, identify relevant community organisations for the young people to attend post release and contact said establishments, to understand their referral criteria and then make relevant referrals, where required.
6. Collect testimonials from the young people in relation to the support FCCT have offered them.
7. Mentoring of young people 
8. Make or facilitate family contacts for resettlement purposes, in relation to the young people.

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate the following attributes:

• Commitment: Shows commitment to the organisation, its values and its clients, understanding that the building of trust and consistency is key, in terms of the clientele FCCT work with.
• Communication: Communicates well both verbally and in writing. An ability to communicate effectively with young people would also be an added benefit.
• Resilience: Demonstrates patience and understanding in the face of challenges.
• Professionalism: Complies with all FCCT policies and procedures, particularly regarding Safeguarding, GDPR etc.
• Non-judgemental: Demonstrates empathy and openness and does not impose personal values or conscious or unconscious bias.
• Solution focused: Can help to identify issues and meets challenges with optimism and offers solutions, seeing them as an opportunity to learn.

Training and Support

We will provide all the necessary training. Training will be provided on an ongoing basis and volunteers will be given a full induction of the organisation and how the projects run.

Time Required

FCCT ask for a minimum of 8 hours a month. Due to the flexibility of the role, the hours can be distributed over different days between the core hours of 9am - 5pm, including Sundays. We are for a commitment of at least a year with the project, due to the flexibility of the role.

Benefits for Mentors Include

Volunteer Expenses will be paid

Training given, which includes modules such as an Introduction to Mentoring, The Criminal Justice System, Communication Skills etc

FCCT staff can provide references for other job/opportunities

Client front-facing work with people with complex needs

Liaison with statutory agencies within the prison

Liaison with community organisations

Liaison with other volunteers

Student Placements

Meditation can give us a sense of calm, peace and balance that can benefit both our emotional wellbeing and overall health. Do you have experience in delivering meditation sessions and would like to give back your time to support people in crisis?

The hustle and bustle of everyday life can leave us feeling tired and burnt out. People in our services are feeling this more than ever and would benefit from learning mindfulness techniques and strategies. It is important for us to pay more attention to the present moment, our own thoughts, feelings and the world around us as it is known to support and improve our mental wellbeing, sleep, and increase our overall happiness.

What you will be doing

• Facilitate a weekly online meditation session in a small group
• Plan each session and identify any items needed for the Meditation sessions.
• Lead on the logistics and set up of the session alongside the staff team.
• Inspire and motivate people using the services to attend.
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback, and report any concerns to the staff team.

The skills you need

• Have an interest in quizzes
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Good communication skills
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

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