Safeguarding volunteer volunteer roles

Role Title: Volunteer Befriender
Location: Various locations in Ealing
Time Commitment: 1–4 hours per week (flexible)
Reports To: Volunteer Coordinator/Service Lead
Duration: Minimum 6-month commitment preferred
Expenses: Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed

Purpose of the Role:
To reduce social isolation and improve emotional wellbeing by offering regular companionship and support to individuals in the community. The role also provides an opportunity for unpaid carers to have a short break or period of respite while their loved one is engaged and supported.

Key Responsibilities:
• Offer friendly conversation and a listening ear through regular visits or phone calls
• Build and maintain a respectful, trusting relationship
• Encourage social confidence and community engagement
• Report any concerns or relevant information to the project lead
• Attend initial training and ongoing support sessions
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold safeguarding procedures

Ideal Qualities and Skills:
• A good listener with strong communication skills
• Kind, patient, and empathetic
• Dependable and consistent
• Respectful of boundaries and confidentiality
• Open-minded and inclusive

What You’ll Gain:
• A rewarding opportunity to make a positive difference
• Experience in a supportive and meaningful volunteer role
• Ongoing training and support
• Development of interpersonal skills
• Being part of a valued community team

Additional Information:
This role requires two references and a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. Full training is provided.

Purpose of the Role

The Strategic Partnerships Volunteer will support the organisation in identifying, developing, and facilitating strategic partnerships that respond directly to the needs and priorities identified by our delivery partners. The role focuses on translating on-the-ground demands into meaningful collaborations with institutions, organisations, companies, or networks that can add value beyond funding alone.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with the team to understand the concrete needs, gaps, and priorities identified by partner organisations.
• Research and map potential strategic partners (e.g. NGOs, corporates, foundations, universities, public bodies) aligned with those needs.
• Identify partnership opportunities that may include in-kind support, technical expertise, training, resources, visibility, or long-term collaboration.
• Support the preparation of short concept notes or partnership briefs linking partner needs with potential collaborators.
• Assist in initiating and nurturing conversations with prospective partners, where appropriate.
• Maintain a simple tracking system of potential partnerships, contacts, and progress.
• Contribute ideas on how partnerships can be structured in a way that is ethical, balanced, and mutually beneficial.

What We Are Looking For

• Strong interest in partnerships, collaboration, and social impact.
• Ability to think strategically while remaining grounded in practical, partner-led needs.
• Good research and analytical skills.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Comfortable working independently, with guidance from the team.
• Sensitivity to power dynamics, context, and ethical considerations in international or community-based work.

Approach and Mindset

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with sensitivity to different cultural, social, and organisational contexts.
• Alignment with Disability Africa’s vision and way of working, including the Social Model of Disability, and a willingness to apply this ethos in practical partnership-building.
• An ethical and reflective approach to collaboration, grounded in integrity, transparency, and accountability.
• Commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities, and to approaches that expand access and participation for disabled children and young people.

Desirable (but not essential)

• Experience in partnerships, fundraising, business development, CSR, or NGO work.
• Familiarity with international development, disability inclusion, education, or community-based programmes.
• Experience working with or alongside grassroots organisations.

Time Commitment

• Flexible; typically 4–6 hours per week.
• Minimum commitment of 12 months.
• The role can be adapted to the volunteer’s availability and interests.

What the Volunteer Will Gain

• Hands-on experience in strategic partnership development within a values-driven organisation.
• Exposure to partner-led, community-based approaches to social change.
• Opportunity to shape real collaborations with tangible impact.
• Professional references upon successful completion of the role.

Location

• Remote / flexible.

HR & VOLUNTEERING DIRECTOR WANTED

BUILD THE CULTURE. GROW THE SQUAD. SHAPE THE MOVEMENT.

URBAN YOUTH is a startup pop‑up youth work charity — raw, energetic, and built from pure passion. We’re creating high‑impact youth experiences that feel more like street culture and a street wear drop, than traditional youth work.

No red tape. No corporate vibes. Just community, creativity, and real opportunities for young people.

Now we need a HR & Volunteering Director who can help us build the backbone of this movement — the people, the systems, the culture, the squad.

This Role Is About People, Purpose, and Building Something From Scratch

Urban Youth is small but mighty. We’re a start-up, and we need someone who can help us turn our volunteer energy into a powerhouse team.

You’ll be the architect of our people strategy — designing how we recruit, onboard, support, and empower the passionate humans who make Urban Youth come alive.

This isn’t HR in a corporate office. This is HR in a startup youth movement. It’s messy, creative, exciting, and full of possibility.

What You’ll Build

You’ll help us create:

• A volunteer recruitment pipeline that attracts talent, passion, and drive

• Onboarding experiences that feel like joining a squad, not filling out forms

• Systems and processes that keep us organised without killing our vibe

• A culture where volunteers feel valued, connected, and part of something bigger

• A community of people who show up because they believe in what we’re doing

You’ll be the person who helps us turn “we need help” into “we’ve built a team.”

Who You Are

1. You’re entrepreneurial.
2. You’re resourceful.
3. You’re the kind of person who can build a structure out of thin air and make it feel solid.
4. You understand people — what motivates them, what inspires them, what keeps them committed.
5. You know how to spot talent, nurture passion, and bring out the best in a team.
6. You’re not scared of starting from zero.
7. You thrive in environments where you get to create the blueprint, not follow one.

If you’ve ever said, “Give me a mission and I’ll build the team to deliver it,” this is your moment.

Why Urban Youth?

1. Because we’re building something bold. Something fresh. Something that doesn’t look like anything else in youth work.
2. We’re a startup charity with big dreams and tiny resources — which means your impact will be huge.
3. You won’t just manage people; you’ll shape the culture, the community, and the future of Urban Youth.
4. You’ll help build the squad that builds the movement.

Ready to shape the team that shapes the future?

1. If you want to lead with heart…
2. If you want to build systems that empower people, not restrict them…
3. If you want to help create a youth movement from the ground up…

Urban Youth needs you.

Step up. Join the squad. Let’s build a community of passionate people who make magic happen.

Change a life. Mentor a Fatherless Boy. 

Who are we? 

At Chapter2, a Reading-based charity that mentors fatherless boys through a network of 1:1 male volunteers. Our mentoring is long-term and activity based in order to develop meaningful trusted relationships that can have a positive impact on a boy's life. 

What sort of person are we looking for? 

If you are a man living within a 45-minute drive of Reading, Berkshire, then we’d love to hear from you. We recruit, train and match men with boys aged 8 - 16 that do not have a healthy male role model. Our mentoring is activity-based, and we match mentees with a mentor based on their shared interests. You will be committed to walking alongside your mentee for a minimum of 2 years; meeting him for 1-2 hours a week/fortnightly. Most of the mentoring is doing normal activities a father might do with his son ie go for a bike ride, kick a football around, take a walk, etc. We also offer montly group activities that you and your mentee can access for free. In the past these have included paintball, laser tag, bushcraft, footgolf, beach day, go karting, rock climbing, etc. 

What do we offer you? 

You will receive high-quality training at the beginning of your mentoring journey, as well weekly check-ins from your mentor manager, who will support you throughout your time as a mentor.  Additional training is also provided throughout your mentoring journey. Most activities mentors do with their mentees is free, but we do cover some expenses if an activity has an associated cost. 

How do I apply? 

Register your interest on our website and we’ll send you an email within 1 working day. 

Safer Recuritment

The safeguarding and well-being of our mentees is of the utmost importance, and applicants will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Services check and, where necessary, an overseas background check.

There is also an assessment process which includes an application, references and interview.

Successful applicants will also be required to complete Basic Safeguarding training. 

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Children With Voices has been serving Hackney for over 25 years — and we need someone passionate about storytelling to help us share that story with the world.

As our Volunteer Social Media & Marketing Manager, you'll take the lead on our digital presence across Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook — creating content that celebrates our community, raises our profile, and helps us reach the families, partners, and supporters who need to know we exist.

This is a creative, community-driven role at the heart of a nationally recognised grassroots charity.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Develop and manage a content calendar across Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook

• Create engaging posts, reels, and stories that reflect the heart of our work

• Grow our online community and engagement with families, supporters, and partners

• Monitor analytics and share simple monthly insights with the team

• Support the CEO in amplifying key campaigns, appeals, and announcements

• Ensure all content aligns with Children With Voices brand, values, and safeguarding guidelines

• Collaborate with programme staff to capture stories, photos, and milestones

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Active user of at least two of: Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook

• Creative flair and a genuine love of community storytelling

• Good written communication and an eye for design

• Understanding of safeguarding principles when working with children and families

• Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work independently

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience using Canva, Adobe tools, or similar

• Background in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field

• Knowledge of the Hackney community or similar urban settings

• Experience working with charities or community organisations

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Real-world experience managing social media for a nationally recognised charity

• A portfolio of live, impactful community content

• A reference from our CEO for your professional portfolio

• The chance to be part of something that genuinely changes lives in Hackney

• Ongoing support and guidance from our leadership team

Read Easy Waltham Forest is a local group that provides free, confidential, one-to-one reading coaching for adults who want to learn or improve their reading skills. We match local residents with trained volunteer coaches for sessions every week, meeting in safe, convenient places around the borough of Waltham Forest. By teaching adults to read, we do so much more than just improve literacy—we help boost mental health, build daily independence, and transform lives across our community.

We are now looking for our new Team Leader.

The Read Easy Management Team Leader is a vital volunteer position for our local branch of the adult literacy charity Read Easy. The purpose of the charity is to help adults in the area who want to improve their reading skills, and we are currently supporting 15 readers.

Your role is to oversee and support a small team of enthusiastic and friendly volunteers and to manage monthly meetings. The role requires leadership and administrative skills to keep the group running smoothly. Key responsibilities include leading a team of skilled and experienced volunteers and working with them to plan activity and set future goals. You will also occasionally liaise with the Read Easy area co-ordinator for the South East and ensure the group is run in compliance with Read Easy policies.

The time commitment is flexible but would be around 4 to 5 hours per week, plus one monthly management team meeting which is in the evening.

Volunteering with Read Easy is fun and rewarding. To hear that a parent can read to their child for the first time, that someone can read the aisle names in supermarkets or that someone has been able to fill in a form by themselves for the first time in their life means that we know that we are making a positive change.

Role description and purpose:  The role involves offering moral and some practical support to a client of WTRRP.  Any complex needs are addressed by WTRRP Case Workers and professional organisations, not befrienders. Befrienders will give client extra support to combat isolation, extra language support and help them to integrate into UK society and the Watford community. 

How a befriender will be allocated: The Befriending Coordinators and the Volunteers’ Coordinator will allocate a befriender to a client with his/her explicit agreement.  An initial meeting between the client, the befriender and one of the coordinators will be organised to set up parameters and ensure that both parties are happy to continue.  Client support can be terminated at any time by mutual agreement and in consultation with one of the Befriending Coordinators.

Key responsibilities:

· Provide moral support to allocated client.

· Make regular phone calls and visits (in a neutral place such as cafes, libraries, St Mary’s as agreed with the client) – once a week or every other week.

· Listen, encourage and empower clients. (It is important not to create mutual dependency)

· Maintain a friendly but neutral approach.

· Help client integrate into UK society by sharing local knowledge, for example facilitating access to Children Centres, libraries etc.

· Accompany client to social events organised by WTRRP.

· Help client be aware of WTRRP services

· Offer practical help such as lifts to medical appointments (if comfortable with this), finding clothes, furniture, moving (if agreed and organised by WTRR) etc.

· Report to a Befriending Coordinator after each meeting with the client. 

· Identify more complex needs/issues and relay these to the Befriending Coordinators.

· Report any safeguarding concerns immediately as per WTRRP policy. Liaise with the Safeguarding Lead and/or members of the Committee.

· Represent WTRRP and work constructively as part of a WTRRP team.

Other Requirements of the Role:

· Willingness to commit to a 6 months period (an extension may be granted but we would like to see clients become self-reliant)

· Reasonable availability, particularly during weekdays.

· Attend regular Befrienders’ training and volunteers’ training essential.

Skills and personal qualities:

· Strong communicator and interpersonal skills (including ability to convey information in simple English).

· Patience

· Reliability and flexibility

· Awareness of non-verbal communication such as body language.

· Awareness of cultural differences/unconscious bias and their effects on the clients we support.  Training will be given on these.

· Awareness of boundaries.

· Ability to work as part of a team.

· Empathy for the plight of refugees and asylum seekers.

Experience: 

· Previous volunteering experience an advantage

The role:

· To help recruit people into the session and promote an overview of the group

· Attend the group and support people

· Share a group agreement at the start of each session, including respect and

confidentiality

· To respect peoples’ differences

· Report any concerns, including safeguarding that may arise in the group.

· Work closely with the group worker to plan and evaluate sessions

· Support people accessing the service to develop their own skills and interests

· Support the Group Worker with any tasks linked to the running of the group,

including planning, set up, and evaluation

· Potential to take the lead on facilitating groups

· Potential to develop new groups and shape the way these are offered to

people accessing the service

• Help with the occasional group outings and any pride events. 

Skills we would like you to bring to the role:

• Good knowledge of boundaries

• Confident at engaging group discussions

• Assertive manner to challenge inappropriate behaviour

• Confident IT skills – aside from any IT skills required for the role, some of our mandatory training is done online through eLearning modules

• Professional, honest and committed

• Good time keeping

• Able to work as part of a team, on own initiative and to instruction

• An understanding of Waythrough – information is available on our website, and you can call a specific project to make enquiries.

• A genuine interest in being part of the mission, vision and promise of Waythrough

• Ability to maintain professional boundaries, adhere to Waythrough policies and media guidelines, engage in supervision, and complete relevant training

About Waythrough

Waythrough provides specialist support across mental health, alcohol, drugs and related areas. We delivery high-quality, evidence-based services designed around the real needs of the people we serve.

Every year, we support around 125,000 people through over 250 services - and it's all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.

Make a real difference in your community 

Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change. 

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy:

• Discounts from various schemes

• Training and personal development

• A chance to make a real difference in people’s lives

• Free induction and role-specific training

• Support from experienced staff and regular supervision

• Opportunities to meet new people and develop your confidence

• Reimbursement for travel and agreed expenses

• Valuable experience that can support your personal or career development

Inclusion and accessibility 

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. 

We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme  - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.

How to apply 

If you’re viewing this advert on an external platform such as Indeed, please click ‘Apply via company website’ to view the full job description and submit your application. 

Please note that while this role has a stated closing date, we reserve the right to close the advert early should we receive a high number of applications.

Are you a parent, grandparent or have experience of caring for children?

Do you have 2-3 hours per week to spare? Use your experience to support a family facing challenging times.

Our Home-Visiting Service supports families who are experiencing difficulties or suffering stress and who have at least one child under the age of five years.

Our aims are:

To increase the confidence and independence of the family by:

Offering support, friendship and practical assistance

Visiting families in their own homes and in their community, where the dignity and identity of each adult and child can be respected and protected

Reassuring parents that difficulties in bringing up children is not unusual and encouraging them to enjoy family life.

Developing a relationship with the family in which time can be shared and understanding can be developed. This approach is flexible to take account of different needs.

Encouraging parents’ strengths and emotional wellbeing – for the ultimate benefit of their children.

Encouraging families to widen their network of relationships, and to effectively use the support and services available within the community.

VOLUNTEER SECRETARY / GOVERNANCE LEAD

Help guide SUNSHINE Charity with strong governance, clear records, and thoughtful organisation.

SUNSHINE Charity is looking for a committed and organised Volunteer Secretary / Governance Lead to join our Board of Trustees and help support the charity’s governance, administration, and compliance. Working closely with the Chair, fellow Trustees, and the Project Lead / Project Manager, you will help ensure the charity runs smoothly, keeps good records, and remains well organised and accountable.

This is an important trustee role for someone who values structure, clarity, and good governance, and who wants to play a meaningful part in helping a grassroots charity grow in a responsible and sustainable way.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Secretary / Governance Lead, you will help support the effective running of the Board of Trustees and contribute to the charity’s overall governance. You will help organise meetings, maintain records, support trustee communication, and ensure key governance tasks are kept up to date.

This role is ideal for someone who is methodical, reliable, and comfortable handling administrative and governance responsibilities.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support the Chair and Board of Trustees with governance and administrative duties.

• Organise trustee meetings, including agendas, papers, minutes, and follow-up actions.

• Maintain accurate and secure charity records, documents, and key correspondence.

• Help ensure the charity meets its governance, reporting, and policy obligations.

• Keep track of trustee terms, appointments, and other governance matters.

• Support the development, review, and organisation of charity policies and procedures.

• Act as a point of contact for formal trustee administration and record-keeping.

• Help ensure the Board operates in a structured, efficient, and compliant way.

• Work closely with fellow Trustees and the Project Lead / Project Manager to support effective charity operations.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• Strong organisational and administrative skills.

• Good written communication and attention to detail.

• A reliable, discreet, and methodical approach.

• Confidence in handling meeting papers, records, and governance documents.

• Ability to work collaboratively with other Trustees.

• An interest in charity governance, compliance, and good practice.

• Previous experience in a secretary, administration, governance, or trustee role would be helpful, but is not essential.

WHAT YOU'LL GET OUT OF IT

• The opportunity to help shape and strengthen a growing community charity.

• Valuable experience in charity governance and trustee board administration.

• A meaningful role supporting transparency, structure, and good practice.

• The chance to contribute to a mission focused on kindness, community, and reducing loneliness.

TIME COMMITMENT

This is a flexible volunteer (non-trustee) role, with approx. 4 hours per month commitment depending on board meeting frequency and governance needs. Some regular time will be needed for meetings, record-keeping, and follow-up tasks.

JOIN US

If you are organised, thoughtful, and want to help build a charity with strong foundations, we would love to hear from you.

To apply or express interest, please contact us via Charity Job.

About Body & Soul 

Body & Soul is a multi-award-winning charity revolutionising suicide prevention through long-term, trauma-informed, community-based support. Our work centres connection, resilience, and equity—recognising that healing happens collectively, not in isolation. 

About Braver Together 

Braver Together is an online therapeutic programme providing structured support for parents, partners, siblings and chosen family of those at risk of suicide.

Grounded in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), the programme equips participants with practical tools, coping strategies, and deeper understanding to navigate the emotional impact of supporting someone in crisis. [

It offers: 

• A structured group programme ( 14 weeks) 

• Access to therapeutic support

• Ongoing community connection and support 

• A safe, inclusive, non-judgemental environment 

The aim is to strengthen both individual wellbeing and the wider support system around those at risk of suicide. 

How This Role Contributes 

By supporting Braver Together, you are helping to strengthen the wider network around individuals at risk of suicide, recognising that supporting loved ones is a critical part of long-term healing and prevention.

Purpose of the Role 

To support the delivery of the Braver Together programme by helping to create a safe, welcoming, and consistent therapeutic environment for participants, while contributing to engagement, accessibility, and community-building. 

Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring that those supporting loved ones feel heard, held, and connected, alongside professional therapeutic support. 

Key Responsibilities 

Supporting Delivery & Engagement 

• Assist with the smooth running of weekly online group sessions (e.g. welcoming participants, managing attendance, supporting logistics) 

• Help foster a warm, inclusive and non-judgemental space for participants 

• Support participant engagement before, during and after sessions 

• Support in creating and promoting community sessions

• Supporting with monitoring and evaluation processes 

Creating Safe & Supportive Spaces 

• Model Body & Soul values of empathy, compassion and respect 

• Be attentive to participant wellbeing and flag any concerns to staff appropriately 

Community & Relationship Building 

• Support the development of connection among participants 

• Contribute to community spaces and follow-up engagement (e.g. community evenings or check-ins) 

Practical & Administrative Support 

• Support session preparation (materials, reminders, basic coordination) 

• Assist with follow-up communications where appropriate 

• Contribute to data collection and feedback processes 

Programme Development & Learning  

• Support outreach and awareness of the programme 

• Contribute to service improvement through feedback and reflection 

• Undertake light research tasks

Boundaries of the Role 

• Volunteers do not provide therapeutic or clinical advice 

• All safeguarding or risk concerns are escalated to trained staff 

• Volunteers work under guidance and supervision at all times 

Skills & Experience (Desirable, not essential) 

• Interest in mental health, suicide prevention, or community support 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills 

• Ability to listen with empathy and without judgement 

• Reliability and commitment to maintaining confidentiality 

• Lived experience or understanding of supporting others (welcomed and valued) 

Why Join Us? 

• Experience within a trauma-informed, DBT-informed therapeutic programme.

• Make a tangible difference in the lives of families navigating suicidality and crisis.

• ​Insight into systemic, community-based approaches to suicide prevention.

• Work in a supportive, inclusive, and creative team environment with a flexible, collaborative working aproach. 

• Being part of a values-driven, inclusive and transformative organisation 

• Experience a full introduction & training program, responding to the needs and interests of our volunteers. 

• ​Opportunities for reflection, learning, supervision, and personal development 

• Ongoing support from our team, our Head of Volunteering, and from a large community of other volunteers. 

Our Commitment to Equity 

Body & Soul is committed to anti-racist, decolonised, and inclusive practice. We actively welcome volunteers from diverse backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience and from communities most impacted by systemic inequities. 

Are you a Child and Young Person Clinical Supervisor interested in supporting child and young person counsellors and therapists?

Burning Nights CRPS Support has a highly skilled counselling and therapy team who provide counselling and psychotherapy to adults and children who have been impacted by a debilitating pain condition, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This team is expanding rapidly and we are now looking for 1 volunteer Child and Young Person (CYP) Clinical Supervisor to join this team ensuring we can continue the provision of our vital emotional support services to this community specifically for young people. We would ideally like to take on 1 CYP Clinical Supervisor supporting a small group of CYP therapists who specialise in a range of modalities.

All our Counselling and therapy team help to develop our growing mental health support service for patients, families and carers affected by Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). As a volunteer with the CRPS Counselling & Therapy Service, your skills and experience as a CYP Clinical Supervisor will be providing support to therapists who offer therapy to vulnerable children and young people aged 5-18.

Depending on your qualifications, skills and experience, you will provide group and 1-2-1 Supervision support for CYP counsellors or psychotherapists who provide counselling support or specialist services for children and young people. The service currently offers specialist support to anyone over the age of 5 who is affected by CRPS.

Key Tasks and Objectives

• Facilitate Clinical Supervision group sessions on a monthly basis (online) and be able to offer at least 1 or 2 supervisees on 1-2-1 basis mainly trainees

• Administer this supervision from invitation through to record keeping

• Take part in complex case allocation meetings with the Clinical Lead

• Maintain appropriate clinical records of all work and to report, along with any concerns on individuals or their practice to the Clinical Lead

• Commitment to ongoing supervision of supervision practice at Burning Nights CRPS Support as well as engaging in separate own personal supervision

• Work flexibly as part of a small team as necessary to provide maximum coverage for supervision, such as in the event of emergencies

• Abide by all Burning Nights CRPS Support policies and procedures

• Adhere to BACP, BABCP (or other appropriate therapies governing body) Ethical Framework

Key Skills, Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

• Psychotherapy/Counselling qualification with a minimum of 2 years post qualification experience in a similar field

• Qualification in Clinical Supervision - ideally level 7 or above (could also suit experienced counsellors who require a placement during Clinical Supervision placement, or experienced counsellors wishing to gain experience in supervision)

• Had experience of supervising CYP therapists 

• Accreditation/registration (or working at the level of or towards this qualification) as a Supervisor with BACP/HCPC/BABCP or equivalent

• Significant proven experience of supervising individual CYP counsellors/psychotherapists from a range of training backgrounds 

• Appropriate and proven clinical experience of working with young people with a range of difficulties including complex medical health issues, loss and bereavement. Ideally experience of working with children and young people living with or affected by chronic pain or chronic conditions

• Willingness to engage in any Burning Nights CRPS Support training

• Understanding of issues regarding confidentiality and management of risk within a counselling service

• Good administrative skills

• Understanding of the voluntary sector

• Commitment to on-going engagement in personal supervision

• Knowledgeable of and committed to equalities’ provision

Desirable:

• Appropriate and proven clinical experience of working with children and young people living with or affected by chronic pain or chronic conditions

• Being able to supervise CYP therapists in small groups

• Experience of working within a low-cost / free voluntary sector counselling setting

• Experience of working within the voluntary charity sector

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.

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Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

Role Profile

Located at

Shop Based

Department

Mind Retail 

Hours

Flexible – we value any time that you can give us, this can be a few hours, half days or full days. It’s important that within the time you give us, that you can meet all of the responsibilities of the role, outlined in the role profile.

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.

About the role

Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops. Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do.

Key tasks

Our Lead Volunteers are responsible for all of the following tasks:

· Opening, closing and managing the shop in the shop management team’s absence, which could include but not limited to:

o Setting up the till and cashing up at the end of the day

o Conducting a shop floor walk

o Conducting health & safety compliance checks, such as inputting information into our H&S system

o Checking shop emails and cascading key messages to the team

o Securing the shop

o Making sure housekeeping and cleaning is completed

· Works with the shop management team to meet sales targets and supports with ensuring that the volunteer team understand and are working to meet and exceed the agreed targets.

· Supports with ensuring the optimum price point for all stock items and promotional merchandise for seasoned and windowed themes, following the principles outlined in Mind Retail’s Pricing Guide

· Follows all company policies, shop standards and operating procedures and supports with the communication of these to other shop volunteers.

· Supports with the preparation and completion of shop administration inclusive of cash handling and banking functions to the highest standard, accurately and on time, always adhering to Company Policies and Procedures.

· Performs management till functions such as refunds.

· Provides direction and support to shop volunteers, following instructions from the shop management team.

· Supports with ensuring all Security, Health and Safety policies and procedures are adhered to in order to provide a safe and secure shop environment for our customers and colleagues.

· May support the shop management team with the recruitment of shop volunteers, planning volunteer cover and training.

Like our other volunteers, Lead Volunteers also support with the below key tasks:

· Supports with the presentation and maintenance of the highest standards of shop merchandising and visual layout.

· Supports with ensuring maximum stock availability through effective stock control and shop replenishment, adhering to Mind Retail’s merchandising guidelines.

· Actively promotes Gift Aid to maximise contributions from donations.

· Supports with the rotation, quality and replenishment of stock in order to maximise sales.

· Answering the shop telephone and taking messages from customers and our internal teams

· Ensures excellent shop standards at the end of the trading day and following closedown procedures

What you’ll gain from being a Lead Volunteer

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

· Shop management and retail management experience

· Key holder experience

· Opportunity 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

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

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.

The groups also provide social activities for all the members and their families - for example, occasional outings and socials plus bowling and other outdoor activities. Free refreshments and items from their resource library are also available at meetings.

Adults' social group

This friendship group for adults and older teenagers generally meets fortnightly (alternating with the Children's and Teenagers' groups) during term time on Tuesdays from 7.00 to 9.00pm Children's and Teenagers' social groups

The Children's and Teenagers' group generally meets fortnightly (alternating with the Adults' group) during term time on Tuesdays from 6.00 to 8.00pm

The Southampton volunteer Group Leader will be responsible for the co-ordination of the NAS South Hampshire branch’s adult and older teens social group and the children and teens social group.

What you will be doing

• Planning sessions, including activities and other ideas, and co-ordinating the other volunteers attending both groups,
• Welcoming the autistic children, young people and adults to each of the sessions
• Interacting with those attending, making sure that everyone can engage in the activities in a safe manner.
• Organising the setting up and clearing away before and after the club activity
• Keeping the branch chair informed of both group’s activities in the upcoming sessions and attending branch committee meetings
• Ensuring your branch complies with NAS policies including risk assessment, data protection and safeguarding.
• Any agreed expenses incurred will be reimbursed by the branch
• You will be supported in your role by the Branch Chair and former group leader.
• You will have access to a dedicated NAS email address for this role
• A criminal record check is a requirement of this role