Safeguarding volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of healthy citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Our Felixstowe Cadet Unit will meet for 2 hours on a weekday evening, every week during term times. Usually between the hours of 6-9 pm, being a new unit, the team will be able to discuss the day/time when in place. Please outline your availability in your application form.
Pursuing the role
If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:
- Welcome Event (Induction) - 30/03/2025- 01/09/2025
- Training for role - To progress to a Youth Leader, a candidate would need to undertake Safeguarding Level 2, Youth FUNdamentals, Youth Principles and First Aid for Youth Leaders training. There is also opportunity to undergo Day Warrant training, though this isn't a requirement for the role.
The closing date for these opportunities is: 18/07/2025
To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Role
Your mission will be leading efforts in safeguarding Onja’s legal interests as it continues to grow.
Responsibilities:
- providing accurate, relevant and timely advice to management and staff on a needs basis in respect of a broad range of issues, with a particular focus on employment law and dispute resolution;
- ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations that apply to the organisation;
- managing and mitigating legal risks by designing and implementing organisational policies and procedures;
- collaborating with third parties, including external counsel and regulators, as needed; and
- designing and delivering legal training to the organisation;
Requirements:
- Twelve month commitment (this ensures sufficient time to make a truly meaningful impact) with potential to renew/extend.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Bachelor of Laws or equivalent
- Legal industry experience preferred
- Strong stakeholder management skills.
- High degree of professional ethics and integrity.
- Strong analytical and research skills.
- Ability to work well within a team and individually.
- Professional legal qualification and/or exposure to employment law/dispute resolution would be a plus
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Independent Visitor Role Description
Purpose: To appoint a volunteer to visit, advise, and befriend a young person in the care of the Local Authority, providing contact with someone independent of their professional network.
Accountable to: Independent Visitors/Mentors and Peer Mentoring Coordinator
Main Tasks
- Visit a young person monthly and build a positive relationship as an adult friend.
- Encourage participation in activities for social, emotional, and educational development.
- Provide timely written reports on visits.
- Maintain contact with responsible adults for the young person.
- Ensure the young person’s views are heard.
- Ensure the young person knows their rights and is encouraged to participate in decisions.
- Promote the young person’s unique needs related to their race, culture, language, religion, disability, gender, or sexual orientation, challenging discrimination.
- Abide by the confidentiality policy and report any safeguarding concerns.
- Keep secure records of visits and significant events.
- Safely destroy documents once no longer part of the scheme.
RBKC Values and Behaviour
- Putting Communities First: Inclusive, quality service.
- Respect: Value personal experiences and a fair approach.
- Integrity: Open, honest, and responsible communication.
- Work Together: Collaborate for better community impact.
Personal Attributes, Skills, and Abilities
Attributes:
- Committed - Ideally, relationships should last at least two years.
- Resilient - Building trust takes time and patience.
- Consistent - Develop trust through consistency.
Skills:
- Sensitivity to young people's needs.
- Ability to build positive relationships.
- Initiative and time management.
- Ability to travel.
Equal Opportunities
Independent Visitors/Mentors are recruited from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds. We actively recruit male and female volunteers from all religious faiths and socio-economic backgrounds. Independent visitors/mentors with disabilities are also welcome to apply.
Volunteers are expected to adhere to RBKC’s policies on diversity, equal opportunities, and anti-discriminatory practice. Training provided includes equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practices to ensure that all Independent Visitors/Mentors are knowledgeable and can apply these in their role.
The Independent Visitor/Mentors Role is a valuable one, and if you choose to apply and are accepted onto the scheme, you could be a positive influence in a young person’s life.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Bright Futures UK is looking for passionate and knowledgeable A-Level Business tutors to provide educational support and a fun, safe learning environment for young people living with serious illnesses.
What will you be doing?
Run tutoring sessions online to support a young person.
Offer subject area knowledge and expertise related to A-Level Business.
Help to combat social isolation through fun and engaging tutoring sessions.
What are we looking for?
Subject Knowledge: Strong understanding of A-Level Business concepts and specifications.
Teaching Skills: Ability to explain complex ideas in a clear and engaging way.
Empathy and Patience: Kind and understanding nature, especially towards those facing health challenges.
Reliability: Consistent availability for the agreed-upon time commitment.
You must be a UK resident and be at least 18 years old.
What difference will you make?
Academic Progress: Help young people stay on track with their studies despite their health challenges, ensuring they do not fall behind.
Confidence Builder: Provide a stable and encouraging presence that helps build the students' confidence and resilience.
Future Opportunities: Equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
What will you gain?
The opportunity to fight education inequities and make a difference in a young person's life
Enhanced DBS Certificate
Safeguarding level one training
Skill development opportunities and practical experience
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
As our Treasurer Trustee, you’ll bring your financial expertise to our dynamic international board working alongside trustees from member organisations, our leadership team and co-opted trustees bringing a range of specialist skills to our Board.
What will you be doing?
We are looking for a Treasurer with experience of working with not for profits in setting strategic financial direction,. It would be desirable to have experience in complying with the Charity Commission for England and Wales or similar bodies’ regulations.
You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we implement our new strategy, build on our campaigns, broaden our advocacy to mobilise greater support and achieve change.
The Treasurer will maintain an overview of the organisation's affairs, ensuring its financial viability and that the organisation has policies and systems in place to ensure robust financial planning, implementation and reporting.
What are we looking for?
The Treasurer will maintain an overview of the organisation's affairs, ensuring its financial viability and that the organisation has policies and systems in place to ensure robust financial planning, implementation and reporting. This will involve :
- Reviewing budgets, accounts and financial statements, and recommending them to the Board for approval
- Being assured that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs
- Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate reserves policy
- Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place
- Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy
- Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by funders and the relevant statutory bodies
- Ensuring that the accounts are scrutinised through external audits and internal reviews and that any recommendations are implemented
- Keeping the Board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities
- Chairing the Resource Mobilisation and Communications Committee (formerly the Finance and Human Resources Committee), leading online meetings three times a year
- Ensuring that organisation has processes in place to meet any compliance requirements
- Ensuring the organisation has a risk management process in place
- Reviewing and signing financial transactions and other documentation requiring board approval
What difference will you make?
This is a substantive role at the core of our organisation. We are a global alliance of 51 local organisations in 40 countries, working on the front line with children and families in need. Our vision is a world in which children and families everywhere have access to the support they need to survive and thrive. Our mission is to make that happen through research, knowledge exchange, campaigning and humanitarian responses. We are registered as a charity under the Charity Commission for England and Wales and have two subsidiaries registered in New Zealand and in the US
Family values mutual accountability and has a Responsibility Framework which outlines responsibilities and rights for board trustees, members and staff. The Treasurer has a key role in ensuring that mutual accountability is upheld in areas of finance by identifying and highlighting potential conflicts of interest.
Through campaigning, we influence and inspire others to take action for children and families worldwide. For more information about our work and our members, please visit our website.
Before you apply
Please apply, or contact us if you have any questions,through Reach in the first instance. Please provide a cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role, your relevant experience and indicate your availability. Interviews will take place via Zoom. Deadline for applicaions is 06 Nov 2025.
Desirable, but not essential requirements:
- experience of working with or on a board
- a qualified member of a recognised accountancy body
- some experience of charity fundraising is desirable
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
YMCA Trinity Group – Trustees
‘Inspiring communities, transforming young lives’
Job Advert Ref: Trustees2025
Registered Address: YMCA Trinity Group, Queen Anne House, Gonville Place, Cambridge CB1 1ND
YMCA Trinity Group is seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees. Our programs span Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, putting people at the core of our mission. We take time to find the right fit, believing that open dialogue builds the strongest Board. We're a dynamic, team-oriented group seeking members who can contribute their unique skills and experience.
We are specifically looking for expertise and skills in the following areas;
· Business Development
· Strategic Planning
· Change Management
· People and Culture
· Finance
· Marketing
· IT
YMCA Trinity Group has served local communities since 1852, and we're committed to a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We also welcome young people seeking Board experience.
Trustee roles are both rewarding and demanding. Join us in creating new possibilities for young people and communities. If you're ready to make a difference, we want to hear from you!
Thank you for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you soon!
YMCA Trinity Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all staff to share this commitment.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Main purpose of job: To host our Parent/Carer online community support group as part of Mast Cell Actions community support services.
Key tasks include:
· Host support sessions with professionalism and enthusiasm.
· Moderate Q&A sessions, and facilitate audience interaction to keep participants engaged.
· Manage technical aspects of virtual events, to ensure smooth execution.
· Take the register and send post event emails using our bespoke event platform
· Raise safeguarding concerns using internal processes and procedures. Training will be provided
· Maintain confidentiality and follow charity policies and procedures
· Undertake relevant training
Key Objectives Include:
· The main purpose of this role is to facilitate and host our Parent/Carer Support Sessions alongside another volunteer
· Host support sessions in a manner that captivates and engages the audience, keeping them interested and actively participating throughout the event.
· Reassure and validate participants' experiences whilst encouraging story-sharing.
· Manage the technical aspects of virtual events proficiently.
· Represent Mast Cell Action professionally at all times, demonstrating strong communication skills, reliability, and adaptability in a virtual environment.
Experience/skills required:
· Proven experience as a virtual event host, moderator, or similar role is desirable but not essential as we can train you.
· Must have personal experience of being a parent or carer for a child with MCAS or suspected MCAS
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you an Urdu speaker looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community?
We invite you to become a volunteer for our Talking Bubble Project!
Many older adults and vulnerable individuals in the UK’s Urdu-speaking community experience loneliness and isolation. By offering just a small amount of your time each week, you can make a big difference by providing companionship and a friendly voice in their native language.
What is the Talking Bubble Project?
☎︎ A phone-based service that connects volunteers with individuals who may feel isolated or lonely. Through regular phone calls, you’ll have the opportunity to build friendships, brighten someone’s day, and provide much-needed emotional support—especially for those who feel more comfortable speaking Urdu.
Why volunteer with us?
✔ Support members of the Urdu-speaking community in the UK
✔ Make a meaningful impact on someone’s life
✔ Enjoy flexible volunteering hours
✔ Receive training, ongoing support, and a reference upon completion
✔ Enhance your own sense of fulfilment and purpose
Requirements:
Volunteers must complete an online Safeguarding Adults Level 2 training and undergo a DBS check—both fully paid for by the organisation.
How to get involved:
Simply apply here through the CharityJob’s website. No previous experience is required—just a friendly, compassionate nature and a willingness to listen.
Open to UK residents only.
Help us spread kindness and connection within the Urdu-speaking community across the UK!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Uttlesford Foodbank are seeking someone with fundraising and grant applications experience at board level, ensuring that the Board of Trustees are aware of and kept up to date with any fundraising or grant developments and build a sound fundraising strategy as we move forward. This role involves leading on fundraising affairs for the food bank and ensuring that they are conducted within good practice frameworks.
Responsibilities
As a trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of the food bank and all decisions made by the board, ensuring the organisation is well run, fulfils its mission, is compliant with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable. It is also the responsibility of the treasurer to work in partnership with the chairperson and other trustees to ensure the financial viability and development of the organisation.
Key tasks
Trustee (Fund Raising & Grants Lead) Responsibilities:
- to work alongside the director, treasurer and the rest of the board to plan what level of funds are required to be generated to ensure the effective running of the charity
- to work alongside the trustee board to ensure that all grants are sought and written with the purpose of meeting the charity’s vision and objectives
- To lead on the organisation of local fund-raising opportunities to support the running of the charity, including incorporating national Trussell fund raising campaigns/events throughout the year to oversee, with operational management support, the writing of high-quality grant applications that are in line with the charity’s vision and objectives
- to regularly communicate to the rest of the trustee board via trustee meetings or any other communication, any relevant information and/or developments regarding fund raising or grant applications.
Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:
- to approve, support, and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives
- to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk, and not over-commit the charity
- to ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, responding to changes in the local community as appropriate to ensure that key risks are identified, monitored, and controlled appropriately
- to ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored, and progress is evaluated
- to review and approve financial statements
- to help promote the organisation to key stakeholders and beneficiaries
- to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding, and GDPR compliance/data protection
- to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.
About you
- a knowledge of and commitment to the work of the Uttlesford Foodbank
- a knowledge, ability and passion for fundraising and grant application writing
- an ability to lead on any fundraising and grants matters in a supportive and confident manner
- A knowledge and passion for your local community
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board
- Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity
- Sound, independent judgement and ability to think creatively
- Working effectively as a team member and demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop
Benefits of volunteering
- feeling you are making a difference whilst volunteering with us
- meeting new people and being part of a motivated team who share a passion to eradicate poverty in our community
- building a movement of change with our volunteers, staff, and the people who use our food bank
- bringing our staff, volunteers, and trustees together to achieve our vision
- gaining a greater insight and understanding of local agencies and partnerships
Impact of your role
By leading on fund raising and grants matters for the food bank, you are part of providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Uttlesford Foodbank.
Support
A full trustee induction is in place to support the prospective candidate within their role, as well as access to local voluntary action trustee training.
Please apply through CharityJobs in the first instance, providing a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal interview with members of the Board of Trustees at Uttlesford Foodbank.
Applicants must be primarily resident in the UK when applying for this post. This is to enable successful applicants to fulfil the duties of this post and have access to any systems or programs required for the role in line with the charity’s data protection policies.
You must be 18 or over and must not be disqualified from acting as a trustee and declare any conflict of interest while carrying out the duties of a trustee.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Bright Futures UK is looking for passionate and knowledgeable A-Level Chemistry tutors to provide educational support and a fun, safe learning environment for young people living with serious illnesses.
What will you be doing?
Run tutoring sessions online to support a young person.
Offer subject area knowledge and expertise related to A-Level Chemistry.
Help to combat social isolation through fun and engaging tutoring sessions.
What are we looking for?
Subject Knowledge: Strong understanding of A-Level Chemistry concepts and specifications.
Teaching Skills: Ability to explain complex ideas in a clear and engaging way.
Empathy and Patience: Kind and understanding nature, especially towards those facing health challenges.
Reliability: Consistent availability for the agreed-upon time commitment.
You must be a UK resident and be at least 18 years old.
What difference will you make?
Academic Progress: Help young people stay on track with their studies despite their health challenges, ensuring they do not fall behind.
Confidence Builder: Provide a stable and encouraging presence that helps build the students' confidence and resilience.
Future Opportunities: Equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
What will you gain?
The opportunity to fight education inequities and make a difference in a young person's life
Enhanced DBS Certificate
Safeguarding level one training
Skill development opportunities and practical experience
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our busy Homework Club is part of our delivery of child and family support services, in order that low income and vulnerable families have improved access to services, employment opportunities and life chances.
In response to requests from parents and young people, the Centre provides after-school Homework and Study clubs during term time. Children from three local primary schools, and a few from Year 7 attend the club. Many come from families where English is a second language.
Volunteers sit on a table with 1 or 2 children and provide help with their homework, maths and English work mostly, and some reading. Volunteers commit to one session a week on Friday (3.30 – 5.30pm).
Our Mission
Each Person Matters: The Cardinal Hume Centre enables families, children and young people to overcome poverty and avoid homelessness.
What are we looking for?
- Ideally you have some experience in teaching, either professionally, voluntary or at home with your own children.
- You are friendly, patient and can have rapport with children easily.
- Able to help with maths and English at primary school level.
What is the time commitment?
- Ideally at least one academic term
- Fridays, 3.30 – 5.30pm at The Cardinal Hume Centre and we are trialing an outreach sessions at a local Library & Hotel on otger weekdays
How will you be supported?
- You will be supported by the Family Services staff team.
- You will have access to wide range of e-learning topics. Child safeguarding and fire safety awareness is mandatory for all new volunteers.
- You will be reimbursed for travel expenses.
The Centre enables families, children and young people to overcome poverty and avoid homelessness.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are currently recruiting volunteers to be part of our Governance team. The Data Protection Advisor will be responsible for overseeing the clinic's use of data and legal obligations under GDPR, maintaining high standards throughout. They will respond to the Governance and Compliance Manager.
We are a forward-thinking advice and support charity for the Trans Community. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a Data Protection Advisor to consult on our data protection procedures to ensure we are compliant with all regulations relating to data privacy.
The Data Protection Advisor will play a pivotal role in guiding our clinic through the data protection processes. This entry-level position will involve overseeing the clinic’s data protection policies and procedures, ensuring best practices are followed, and fostering a culture of compliance. You will work closely with senior leadership to develop strategies for growth while safeguarding the clinic’s data protection.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing legal clinic through a pivotal stage of development. You will play a key role in shaping the future of the clinic, ensuring it meets the highest professional standards while contributing to a meaningful cause. We offer a supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Bright Futures UK is looking for passionate and knowledgeable A-Level English tutors to provide educational support and a fun, safe learning environment for young people living with serious illnesses.
What will you be doing?
-
Run tutoring sessions online to support a young person.
-
Offer subject area knowledge and expertise related to A-Level English.
-
Help to combat social isolation through fun and engaging tutoring sessions.
What are we looking for?
-
Subject Knowledge: Strong understanding of A-Level English concepts and specifications.
-
Teaching Skills: Ability to explain complex ideas in a clear and engaging way.
-
Empathy and Patience: Kind and understanding nature, especially towards those facing health challenges.
-
Reliability: Consistent availability for the agreed-upon time commitment.
-
You must be a UK resident and be at least 18 years old.
What difference will you make?
-
Academic Progress: Help young people stay on track with their studies despite their health challenges, ensuring they do not fall behind.
-
Confidence Builder: Provide a stable and encouraging presence that helps build the students' confidence and resilience.
-
Future Opportunities: Equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
What will you gain?
-
The opportunity to fight education inequities and make a difference in a young person's life
-
Enhanced DBS Certificate
-
Safeguarding level one training
-
Skill development opportunities and practical experience
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Bright Futures UK is looking for passionate and knowledgeable GCSE Science tutors to provide educational support and a fun, safe learning environment for young people living with serious illnesses.
What will you be doing?
- Run tutoring sessions online to support a young person.
- Offer subject area knowledge and expertise related to GCSE combined science or each of the individual areas (Biology, Chemistry and Physics).
- Help to combat social isolation through fun and engaging tutoring sessions.
What are we looking for?
Subject Knowledge: Strong understanding of GCSE science concepts and specifications.
Teaching Skills: Ability to explain complex ideas in a clear and engaging way.
Empathy and Patience: Kind and understanding nature, especially towards those facing health challenges.
Reliability: Consistent availability for the agreed-upon time commitment.
You must be a UK resident and be at least 18 years old.
What difference will you make?
Academic Progress: Help young people stay on track with their studies despite their health challenges, ensuring they do not fall behind.
Confidence Builder: Provide a stable and encouraging presence that helps build the students' confidence and resilience.
Future Opportunities: Equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.
What will you gain?
The opportunity to fight education inequities and make a difference in a young person's life
Enhanced DBS Certificate
Safeguarding level one training
Skill development opportunities and practical experience
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE)
CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings
About CARAS:
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.
Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.
We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.
Our values are at the centre of all our work:
• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests.
• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society.
• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes.
• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do.
About Youth ESOL:
Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.
About the Role:
- CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.
- The reading group is in Tooting and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education.
- Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.
- The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.
- The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.
- Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.
- Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.
Volunteer tasks and responsibilities:
-
Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions;
-
Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;
-
Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;
-
Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;
-
Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;
-
Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project;
-
Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;
-
Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;
-
Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom;
-
Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements:
Essential
-
To be 18 years or older;
-
An interest in education and English language teaching;
-
Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status
-
* Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.
-
Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role
-
Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed);
-
To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds;
-
To be reliable and punctual;
-
Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;
-
An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry
-
The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months;
Desirable:
-
Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish;
-
Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics.
Through volunteering with us you will:
-
Gain experience of English language teaching;
-
Meet new members of your local community;
-
Learn about different cultures;
-
Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum;
-
Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;
-
Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English;
-
Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training.
-
Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering.
We provide firm foundations for new-arrival asylum seekers to build happy and successful lives.


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.