Safeguarding volunteer roles

London City Mission (LCM) shares the gospel alongside the local church of London, equipping everyday Christians to lovingly bring a message of hope in Christ to those least likely to hear it.

Webber Street is LCM’S Day Centre for people who are homeless - based just around the corner from Waterloo station. We welcome up to 70 guests a day - we seek to give them not only relief from life on the streets, but also help in taking the first step out of homelessness.

We also seek to meet the emotional and spiritual needs of guests, as well as the physical ones, to help restore some of the dignity that life on the streets has taken from them and to share the life-transforming news of Jesus!

Role Description:

Morning Volunteer (Mondays to Thursdays 8:00-12:30)

This role involves serving our guests breakfast at our morning sessions when we usually have around 60-80 guests each session. Our volunteers come from many walks of life, backgrounds and church traditions, we want to make the best use of your gifts to connect with all of our guests and provide relevant support to them.

No. of volunteers required:  3 each morning

Afternoon Volunteer (Mondays to Thursdays 13:00-16:00)

You can also join us in helping at our weekly afternoon sessions when we have a smaller number of guests. Perhaps you have a gift of listening and coming alongside others; maybe you have artistic gifts where you can come up with new ideas for art and crafts activities and taking the lead in making these happen; maybe you have the skills to help the men with their CVs; maybe you like to show hospitality in welcoming our guests or have a heart serve drinks and refreshments; you can also join or be the lead of our weekly Bible Group.

Our weekly afternoon schedule are as follows:

Mondays- Arts group

Wednesdays- Bible group

Thursdays- Drop in (fortnightly)

No. of volunteers required:  2 each afternoon

Women only space (Fridays 9:00-12:30)

This is a designated safe space for women guests which operates once per week at our centre.  You can join our team if you would like to support our women guests.

Note: This is for female volunteers only

Centre Team

This role involves supporting the centre practically by working in our clothes store, assisting in the kitchen, and doing other practical jobs around the building such as maintenance. It's a hands-on type of role but a vital part of the ongoing ministry of Webber Street.

General Tasks

The role of volunteers at Webber Street Day Centre is to welcome and care for our guests from homeless communities. You will help to ensure smooth operation of the Day Centre by preparing the space and leaving, to help with respective activities based on its weekly programme. Specific duties will include some of the following:

Morning sessions:

o Meeting and welcoming the people who come to Webber Street Day Centre

o Assisting our staff and other volunteers in preparing the room for our guests and leaving it clean and tidy at the end of the session

o Socialising and chatting with those who attend

o Having gospel conversations with our guests

o Praying with guests at their request

o Signposting guests to where they can get help and advice

Afternoon sessions:

o Similar to the tasks in morning session, while volunteer may lead or help with art and craft activities, lead or help with bible group, welcoming guests and help with refreshments.

About You

We are looking for Christians have a compassionate heart to care for those on the margins of society and want to put their faith into action by serving.

We want to make the best use of your gifts and experience, as well as finding a time that fits with your schedule, so we’ll work with you to define how we can serve best. We have volunteers commit to come weekly, fortnightly or monthly etc.

You should be comfortable sharing your faith with guests at natural opportunities.

Volunteer Coordinator Wanted

Are you a natural leader with a passion for bringing out the best in people?

The Principality of Scotia is on an incredible journey, and The Scotia Foundation is seeking a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator to help us build our team. This is a crucial role for a skilled organiser who is passionate about empowering others and managing the heartbeat of our organisation.

Your talent for connecting with people will be vital to our success, ensuring our team feels supported, valued, and motivated.

The Role

As our volunteer Volunteer Coordinator, you will be responsible for the recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing support of our team of volunteers.

Your key duties will include:

• Recruiting and interviewing potential new volunteers, helping to find the right people for the right roles.

• Managing our volunteer database and tracking the skills and contributions of each team member.

• Serving as the primary point of contact for all volunteers, answering questions and providing support.

• Organising and leading volunteer welcome sessions and training.

• Recognising and celebrating the hard work and dedication of our volunteers.

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking a proactive and empathetic individual who:

• Has excellent organisational and interpersonal skills.

• Is a natural leader with a positive and encouraging attitude.

• Is detail-oriented, with a strong ability to manage multiple tasks.

• Is passionate about The Principality of Scotia's vision and building a strong, collaborative community.

What You'll Gain

This is an opportunity to play a foundational role in a truly unique project. You will:

• Gain invaluable experience in team management and leadership.

• Build a unique and impressive project for your professional portfolio.

• Network with dedicated and passionate individuals from around the world.

• Be a key part of the Principality of Scotia's story.

Ready to help us build our team?

How to Apply

To apply, please send a brief message outlining your interest and any relevant experience along with your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you.

THE

SCOTIA

FOUNDATION

Join us and make a difference in the lives of children with additional needs

We are seeking to recruit two new trustees to join our passionate and dedicated board.

We are looking for individuals who share our vision of a world where all children and young people with additional needs and disabilities are fully included in their communities. Whether you're an experienced trustee or looking to take your first step into governance, your contribution could be life-changing for the children we support and for their families.

About the role

As a member of our board of trustees, you will be jointly responsible for the legal, effective, and safe running of me2 club. Working closely with fellow trustees and the senior leadership team, you will help shape the charity’s strategic direction and ensure we continue to deliver high-quality support to our beneficiaries.

As one of our ‘guardians of purpose’, you will play a vital role in making sure all decisions reflect the best interests of the children, young people, and families we serve.

We are also looking to appoint a charity secretary, either as one of the new trustees or as a separate role. This position plays a key part in supporting the governance and smooth running of our board.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from parent/carers with lived experience of caring for a child with additional needs. Your insight is invaluable in helping us ensure our services truly meet the needs of our community.

We are also looking for candidates who may have experience in human resources, business development, impact and evaluation or fundraising.

You do not need previous board experience just a commitment to our mission, a willingness to learn, and a desire to make a difference.

Interested?

To find out more about these exciting opportunities and how to apply, please visit our vacancy page on our website.

Make a real difference to children in Wales with a life-shortening condition by becoming a Fundraising Volunteer today!

We’re on the lookout for a friendly and reliable volunteer to join our dynamic People Services Team as a Systems Administration Volunteer.

This role will be based at our main Head Office in Sully, assisting the People Services Team with a variety of both systems-based and general administration duties.

The People Services Department is made up of 3 functions: HR, Learning and Development and the Volunteering Team. This opportunity would suit someone who has previous office-based experience.

Considerations:

Location: Ty Hafan, Hayes Road, Sully, CF64 5XX (Head Office) 

Age requirement: 18+ 

Schedule: Flexible between 9am-5pm, Weekdays

Background checks: 2 references and a Basic DBS check 

A good level of IT skills is required for this role, as well as any prior experience of HR systems. An understanding of GDPR is also welcome, however, training will be provided.

We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities. Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments during the informal chat for this role.

Activities include: 

• Updating HR systems – including our dual HR/Payroll system, recruitment system and Benefits platform

• Updating employee electronic files

• Updating/amending spread sheets and other information in Excel

• Data input

• Photocopying/filing

• Other ad-hoc administration tasks

Training you will receive:

You will be fully briefed by the Tŷ Hafan team and a full induction will be provided to include:

• Mandatory e-learning to include Safeguarding, Data Protection, Keeping Yourself Safe and Looking After Others

• In-person training to include GDPR

• Ad-hoc role specific training as required – including training on all relevant HR systems.

• All volunteers must complete their mandatory training to continue in their role.

The benefits of joining our People Services team:

• Meet New People and expand your social circle

• Experience the satisfaction of contributing to a meaningful cause

• Enhance your communication skills

• Gain a professional reference after 3 months

• Challenge yourself, gain new experiences, and receive valuable feedback and recognition for your efforts

• Enjoy yourself, feel good about helping others, and make everyday rewarding!

At Tŷ Hafan our people values are working together, demonstrating compassion, providing excellent service and taking ownership.  

We expect all colleagues and volunteers to behave with high levels of integrity and to represent our values as a core part of their role.  

This role is purely voluntary and this arrangement is not meant to be a legally binding one or an employment contract. 

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). 

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.

Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about this role

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best – whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you!

What can you expect to be doing?

This is a really flexible role – you can choose what you’d like to get involved with:

· Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins

· Online fundraising – setting up online appeals, increasing social media engagement to maximise funds raised

· Marketing – spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press  

· Completing administration – processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork

· Championing our work – getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise vital funds through fundraising activities. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated group of volunteers. Whether you’d rather be out and about, or volunteering from your own home, there are so many ways to fundraise.

We’re looking for someone with:

· Good communication and interpersonal skills

· Willingness to be part of a team

· Good organisational skills

· Flexible approach

· Knowledge of local community networks (would be an advantage)

Time expectation

This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments. You’ll be part of a team all working together to raise vital funds while having fun in the process!

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Do you have the skills to lead an established board of governors? A school in Hemel Hempstead is looking for a skilled volunteer to drive school improvement.

As a Chair of Governors, you’ll operate at the head of a governing board and utilise strategic leadership skills, making decisions on a wide range of topics making a difference improving education within your local community.
We’re currently recruiting volunteers for a Chair of Governors in Hemel Hempstead to strengthen their governing board and enhance outcomes of pupils within your community. If you feel, you want to make a difference within your community, read on for more details about the role of a chair of governors and how to apply.

Governors make decisions that affect schools and their pupils for years to come; our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. Becoming a governor gives you ample opportunity for personal and professional development, including exposure to finance and budgeting, safeguarding, HR, strategic planning, and more.
As a Chair of governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos as well as meeting children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand. Chair of governors act as a ‘critical friend’ to their head teacher ensuring accountability and helping to monitor and evaluate the schools progress, budget and staffing. You’ll also help your governing board to shape and implement future plans and guide the schools aims, ethos and values.

You don’t need to be a parent or have any specific skills to become a chair of governors, you’ll need to be over 18 and happy to have a DBS check to apply! Professional skills such as HR, finance, law or project management are useful but governing boards are often needing softer skills such as leadership, communication and problem solving alongside a fresh perspective and lived experience within their communities to help schools have a bright future. As a chair of governors, you’ll be supported by the Vice Chair and Clerk to help ensure an effective, focused board utilising and building its skills, knowledge and experience.

This vacancy is for a 3-19 school looking to find a chair of governor to sit on their board with interest or experience in disability. They would ideally like their chair of governors to have had previous experience within HR and Leadership along with having been a governor or having had board level experience. The school is proud of the privilege they have of enabling the most disabled people in the country to reach their potential. 

If you’re interested in becoming a chair of governor, fill out the short application form.
We have vacancies available across England and Wales, including the roles listed above in Hemel Hempstead. You can express your preference for location on the form itself.

Please note, this role may close early if we receive a high volume of interest.

Welcome and thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee of The Hardman Trust

• Are you keen to help people leaving prison and support them to work towards their goals?
• Do you believe that with the right support people can rebuild their lives, contribute to their communities, and break free from the cycle of reoffending?
• Do you share our conviction that no one should be defined solely by their past, and that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive?

If so, you could be one of the people we are looking for to help The Hardman Trust move into the next
exciting chapter of our work.

Who are we?
The Hardman Trust was established in 1994, with the aim of helping people leaving prison after long
sentences. Our founder, Guy Armstrong, was a prison Chaplain. He saw the challenges facing this
group: homelessness, a lack of workplace skills, stigma, isolation, low confidence, and poverty. A fund
was set up to provide financial assistance to purchase tools and equipment, offering a helping hand
into employment. We now know from experience that this practical approach works. The people the
Hardman Trust has supported over three decades have used this financial support to gain
qualifications, start their own businesses, find employment and a new direction in life. We are now
extending our reach so more people can benefit from our support and sharing our evidence and
insights to help shape a more effective, humane criminal justice system. Achieving this means securing
the right funding, building strong partnerships, and ensuring our resources are used with maximum
efficiency and impact.
We are looking for several new Trustees to join the Hardman Trust Board. If you want to support our
mission, and you feel that you have the commitment and the life or professional experience for the
role, we would love to hear from you. In return, you will have the chance to make a meaningful
difference to those serving long sentences; and you will be part of a passionate and committed team
of staff, trustees and volunteers. We offer support to all new Trustees and if you haven’t been one
before, don’t worry - we will make sure you have access to any training and development you feel you
need.
It is a privilege to be part of the Hardman Trust’s work. It is an incredible organisation making real
change in the criminal justice sector. It is an exciting time to join the charity – we have recently
appointed a new CEO, Annette So and we are looking forward to developing our direction for the
future and fulfilling our vision where everyone can achieve their potential within and beyond prison.

The Trustee role
The Trustees work collectively as a Board. They have ultimate responsibility for governing the
Hardman Trust charity, directing its management, and ensuring it is well-run and operates according to
its purposes. They are legally responsible for the charity's finances, reputation, and compliance with
the law. Each Trustee brings their own lived experience and/or professional skills to support the charity
achieve its aims. Most Trustees also learn new skills during their time on the Board.
We want our Board to look like the world we serve and to have different voices within it. We know
that diverse groups of people make better decisions. We are keen to hear from people who can bring
perspectives or experiences often underrepresented in charity governance and how can help us
progress our vision.
Trustees are not usually involved in the day-to-day running of the charity. However, they work closely
with the Hardman Trust’s dedicated staff team, who are supported by a wider group of volunteers. The
Trustee role as in the majority of charities, is unpaid although legitimate expenses – travel costs for
example – can be claimed.

The Trustees’ key responsibilities

• Setting The Hardman Trust’s strategy and priorities.
• Representing the community, we serve and ensuring our decisions reflect the needs and experiences of those leaving prison.
• Supporting and constructively challenging our staff team to ensure the charity’s work, resources, and partnerships are well-managed and deliver maximum impact.
• Approving operational strategies and policies and monitoring their implementation.
• Approving The Hardman Trust’s financial plans and budgets and monitoring progress.
• Ensuring that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Promoting and safeguarding our values by acting with integrity, fairness, and commitment at all times.
• Applying their skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts to promote the charity’s work.

What we are looking for
No single Trustee will have everything the Hardman Trust needs. We want our Board to have the
collective experience needed to support and guide the charity. What matters most is your
commitment to our mission, your willingness to share your perspective and knowledge, and your
readiness to contribute to our Board’s decision-making. You do not have to have been a Trustee
before.
To complement the experience of our current Trustees, we are keen to hear from people with one or
more of the following:

• Lived experience of the criminal justice system, whether your own or that of a partner, family member, or close friend.
• Knowledge of Black, Asian, or minority ethnic communities, especially in relation to challenges faced after leaving prison.
• Professional experience in, or connected to, the criminal justice system.
• Expertise in HR, banking, and employment law to help us strengthen our policies and practices.
• Fundraising expertise to help grow the charity’s income and help us establish a Fundraising
• Advisory Board.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and to improving outcomes for people serving long prison sentences.

Please review the document The Hardman Trust Trustee Pack for more information about this position.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an early career Junior Media and Communications Officer to be based with an NGO in the heart of Madagascar.

Living in the coastal town of Fort Dauphin in the southeast of Madagascar, this role will support the team managing SEED’s media and communication work. The successful candidate will work with both national and international staff to assist on a wide variety of tasks, from supporting with planning and scheduling content across our range of social media platforms, creating digital media for marketing and social media and day-to-day administration tasks. The role is predominantly office based with some ad-hoc travel to our rural projects. The diversity of activities undertaken will provide a wide-ranging experience for an early career communications and media professional who can effectively and efficiently deal with a comprehensive range of tasks related to the complex world of overseas development work.

Location: Fort Dauphin, Anosy Region, Madagascar
Commitment: 12 months extendable
Salary: Voluntary, with stipend contribution to living expenses and £650 contribution to insurance

Duties and responsibilities

• Create and write social media, website and newsletter content with staff across all departments in line with SEED’s strategy

• Work with the Senior Media and Communications Officer to develop and edit content, ensuring different platforms are used to best advantage SEED’s positioning 

• Provide timely, day to day monitoring and replying to questions and debates across platforms

• Support the development and strategy of individual giving and fundraising campaigns, through all stages

• Work with the Senior Media and Communications Officer and Project Officers to storyboard and develop content as well as engaging and creative social media and awareness-raising campaigns 

• Support the review and evaluation of social media platforms against marketing KPIs 

• Occasional travel to field sites to generate content to be used on social media and other outlets at the direction of Senior Media and Communications Officer 

• Shoot and edit visual high quality content that documents project activities at a national and international level

• Build capacity within the wider team, improving communication between teams internally and with external partners

• Support with the promotion of the organisation through editing blogs and articles

• Work with the IT Officer to maintain and advance the organisation’s website

• Ensure distinctive and consistent brand identity across all communication outputs

• Provide research as directed on industry trends, potential partners and content topics

• Ensure all of SEED’s policies and procedures are evident throughout the work of the department, including those for safeguarding, whistleblowing and anti-corruption, and undertake continual training to ensure these are promoted at all times

• Complete other ad-hoc tasks as required by the Senior Media and Communications Officer, International Operations Manager, or Director of Programmes and Operations to further the aims and work of the organisation. 

Person specification

• Demonstrate a working knowledge of high-quality photo and video content generation and management

• Have experience of creating social media content, marketing or promotional work in line with SEED’s values 

• Willingness to develop visual content using editing skills with software including Canva

• Display exceptional verbal and written communication skills

• Be able to communicate the organisation’s ethos and mission to national and international audiences through photography, videography and copy writing 

• Have passion, curiosity and motivation for the job and the ability to enthuse others 

• Be punctual and be able to work to tight deadlines in an organised manner and to a high standard

• Demonstrate an interest in conservation and community development 

• Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to SEED’s ethos, values  and approach and be a good ambassador for the organisation at all times 

• Demonstrate proven ability to recognise and appropriately deal with challenging situations

• Have the ability and desire to build capacity and share skills across cultures and work with teams from different economic and cultural backgrounds and across multiple language barriers

• Demonstrate an awareness of and comfort with increased social and professional responsibility, being culturally sensitive and respectful at all times

• Demonstrate the ability, social skills and confidence to give clear guidance and support to other members of the team in respect of the philosophy and procedures of SEED in order to protect both their safety and the reputation of the NGO

• Be able to work to and advocate for all of SEED’s policies and procedures, safeguarding those that SEED works with and reporting any concerns appropriately

• Have a flexible and patient attitude

• Have excellent problem-solving skills

• Be able to work both independently and as part of a team

• Be capable and comfortable adapting to life in a less developed country with sometimes basic living conditions 

• Be fluent in English to a high standard. Basic working knowledge of French is desirable though not essential.

About the Organisation

SEED Madagascar is a British Charity working in partnership with communities in the south east of Madagascar. We integrate high quality community health, rural livelihoods, education infrastructure and conservation programmes to support long term, sustainable change and add to international best practice through research and publication across all of our programmatic areas. We are now looking for entry level officers to work alongside national staff and expand our team.

We are looking for new volunteers all around West Midlands to be Speak out. Stay Safe Volunteers. You would visit primary schools local to you to help us protect a generation of children from abuse and neglect.

We are not currently actively recruiting volunteers living in Birmingham City local authority areas. Please sign up for vacancy alerts on the NSPCC website to update you when these positions become available in future.

For candidates applying in Worcestershire and Dudley please note that visits to schools only take place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

For candidates applying in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin please note that visits to school only take place Monday to Thursday and applicants must have access to their own transport.

For candidates applying in Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent please note that visits to school only take place Monday to Thursday.

For candidates applying in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, please note that visits to school only take place Monday to Thursday and applicants must have access to their own transport.

In 2022 the NSPCC's Speak out. Stay safe volunteers returned to primary schools. As a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer, you will visit primary schools to deliver Speak out. Stay safe. workshops that teach children about the different types of abuse and how they can speak out and stay safe. Our Speak out. Stay safe. workshops are age-appropriate and memorable and need an energetic and enthusiastic person to deliver them. You'll work alongside other Speak out. Stay safe. volunteers to make sure at the end of each session the children feel empowered and know who they can speak out to if they are worried.

If you are interested in volunteering as a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer and want to find out more about the role, the next step is to attend a Volunteer Information Meeting, which is a fantastic opportunity to:

• Meet with staff as well as volunteers to ask any questions you may have
• Learn more about the application process and your volunteer journey

Our meetings are designed to help you decide whether you want to apply – there's no obligation or expectation that you'll apply if you attend one. At the meeting, you'll also receive information on other ways you can become a supporter of the NSPCC.

For this role, we can only accept people over the age of 16. 

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood.

Ready to make a difference to a young person's life? Team Up is seeking dynamic volunteers to help transform the lives of disadvantaged pupils by building confidence, resilience and doubling their expected progress in English or maths.

We are looking for inspirational role models who will tutor Maths or English on one of our school programmes across London. You will be matched with a small number of pupils and provide them with the academic support, encouragement and inspiration they need to get back on track. All our volunteer tutors receive full training, lesson resources and support from a qualified teacher/facilitator throughout their placement.

Practical Considerations:

• You can choose a programme that suits your timetable and location.
• Sessions are between 60-90 minutes and will take place on a fixed day of the week, normally at the end of the school day (between 3-5pm).
• Each programme runs across a 12 week period, usually during term time. You will be expected to volunteer for at least one programme (10-12 weeks). 
• Team Up provides full lesson plans and teaching resources.
• This role requires you to undergo a free of charge DBS check, which will be arranged by Team Up.
• Travel expenses up to £15 per session are covered.

If you are looking to make a difference in a local community and find a fulfilling role whilst building your professional skillset, then look no further!

Our volunteers love building a rapport with each pupil, seeing pupil growth, and personal confidence increase across the 12 week programme. By the end of the programme, you will see how the support you give has enabled a young person to not only double their expected progress, but also build long term resilience. 

Alongside this meaningful experience, you will also be able to gain access to our career mentorship scheme and attend our employability seminars, as well as receiving a personalised reference upon completion.

This is an opportunity to enhance your CV and improve your employability skills - all whilst supporting young people from low-income backgrounds! 

You will receive:

• Full tutor-training, including safeguarding training. 
• Ongoing coaching, training and support from an experienced teacher during your placement. 
• Lesson observations alongside personalised developmental feedback and logged classroom hours.
• Opportunities to attend employability workshops incl. cover letter writing skills and coding.

We are looking for:

• Enthusiasm and strong grades in English/maths. 
• Committed and organised individuals who are keen to develop new skills.
• Individuals who are passionate about social mobility and helping to reduce the education attainment gap. 
• Good interpersonal skills when dealing with pupils. 

Chair of the Board of Home-Start Berkshire East

Are you our new Chair of the Board?

Can you lead a charity that supports parents of young children in east Berkshire?

Home-Start in Berkshire East is an empowering, visionary, family support service built on trusted relationships and rooted in the community. We are a local charity, also part of the national Home-Start network of 180 groups. Our Board of trustees is fully responsible for governing our independent organisation, which focuses support to parents with young children, through a range of volunteer and employee-supported services, primarily in the east of Berkshire.

With a turnover of £300k+ in 2024/25, we’re a medium-sized charity, with 14 paid staff and over 30 regular volunteers, offering over 3,000 volunteer hours to more than 300 families per year.

We are looking for a new Chair for our Board of Trustees, as we continue to grow after our recent merger, and as our current Chair reaches the end of her Term of Office. You’ll have a leadership background and an understanding of (charity or corporate) governance. It is vital that you are able to lead cooperatively and work with other Trustees, the CEO, our employee and volunteer team, to shape our vision and strategy. Whilst we’d appreciate some experience within the charity sector, as either a trustee, volunteer or employee, that is not absolutely vital  – we don’t want to preclude appropriate experience from other sectors that clearly fits our current and future needs.

This is a high-profile appointment, with strong commitment to the future of families and children, and an appreciation of Home-Start’s work both important.

We are a charity not a business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We are looking for fresh expertise and experience, wanting to expand the diversity of our board, in all meanings of the word, and strongly welcome applications from people from less-represented groups.

The focus of a trustee is strategic, and our Chair will not be expected to get involved in the organisation’s operations on a day-to-day basis; however, regular contact and liaison with other trustees and our CEO is expected.  

We ask for at least eight hours per month, rising up to sixteen hours per month at times of year-end and the AGM, plus other occasional promotional & celebratory events. You will need good access to digital communications, as much of our charity’s business is run that way.

How to apply  

This appointment is being managed for us by inVOLve Community Services, a charity-support organisation, who offer a no-obligation discussion. A detailed Chair’s Recruitment Information Pack can be made available to you upon request.

Trustee appointments are subject to satisfactory references, to completion of an online Safeguarding course and an Enhanced DBS check. 

Your CV and Supporting Statement will be read by our existing trustees; an informal discussion, followed by a more-formal interview can be arranged as soon as mutually convenient 

I need to know more 

Contact Mike Allen via Apply Now below for more information and arrange to have a no-obligation initial informal discussion (Teams/Zoom), explanation about this important role and any assistance in your application.