Social care development volunteer volunteer roles

Volunteering Opportunity 

Group Activities Mentor

What You’ll Do

Support a small group of older people aged 65+ to become more active and improve their wellbeing. You'll facilitate discussions, encourage participation, and help the group work towards shared goals during a 12-week programme.

You will:

· Support a group of up to 6 participants

· Help the group identify a shared wellbeing or physical activity goal

· Facilitate weekly group sessions

· Encourage participation and positive peer support

· Monitor progress towards agreed goals

· Introduce ideas and activities that support healthy ageing and wellbeing

· Maintain attendance and session records

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

· Group facilitation

· Communication and leadership

· Motivation and coaching skills

· Confidence managing group discussions

· Organisation and planning

· Problem-solving and teamwork

Time Commitment

Minimum 2 hours per week

Flexible weekdays between 9:00am and 5:00pm

Location: Community locations around Enfield

Reports to: Communities in Motion Manager

Ready to Apply?

Our Volunteer Opportunities Pack and Volunteer Application Form are attached and available to download.

If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, simply complete the application form and email it to us. (Email address included in the application pack)

Once we've received your application, we'll arrange an informal telephone chat to discuss the volunteer role(s) you're interested in, answer any questions you may have, and help you find the opportunity that's the best fit for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Community Interaction & Behaviour Change Communication

· Visit villages, urban communities, and schools

· Interact with families, women, and children

· Understand local health practices, challenges, and needs

· Support ongoing community health programs

Hygiene Awareness Campaigns

· Conduct awareness sessions on:

o Personal hygiene (menstrual hygiene , handwashing, cleanliness)

o Sanitation practices

o Safe drinking water and hygiene habits

· Use creative methods like posters, demonstrations, and group activities

Basic Health Education

· Assist in delivering sessions on:

o Menstrual hygiene .

o Preventive healthcare

o Nutrition and balanced diet

o Common diseases and basic prevention methods

· Support local team in simplifying health messages for communities

School Health Programs

· Organize interactive sessions in schools on:

o Hygiene practices for children

o Importance of cleanliness and health

· Conduct activities such as:

o Games and quizzes

o Awareness discussions

o Health-focused storytelling

Women’s Health & Menstrual Hygiene Awareness

· Support workshops on:

o Menstrual hygiene management

o Breaking myths and stigma

o Importance of hygiene and health for women

· Assist in distributing educational materials

Research & Data Collection

· Conduct basic surveys and collect community feedback

· Observe and document hygiene practices and health awareness levels

· Assist in preparing reports and case studies

Campaign Design & Creative Outreach

· Help design:

o Awareness posters

o Educational materials

o Social media campaigns

· Participate in community awareness drives and local events

Community Interaction & Behaviour Change Communication

· Engage in conversations with community members

· Promote positive behaviour change related to hygiene and health

· Learn how communication strategies influence public health outcomes

Documentation & Storytelling

· Document field experiences through:

o Photography

o Blogs

o Video storytelling

· Share impact stories and community voices

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

There are currently four Committees that report directly to the Board of Trustees, one of them is the Safeguarding Committee, of which you will be a member. The Safeguarding Committee provides assurance, advice and recommendations to the Board on safeguarding matters.

The Committee provides strategic leadership, ownership and oversight of The Scout Association (TSA)’s safeguarding policies and procedures, and ensures that safeguarding policies, procedures and practice remain fit for purpose and sector leading in protecting young people in Scouting.

The Committee also provides strategic oversight, challenge and assurance in relation to TSA’s safeguarding arrangements, including the safeguarding of adults where relevant.

Independent Members bring external expertise, independent scrutiny and constructive challenge to support the Committee in fulfilling its responsibilities. The role is not operational: it is a strategic governance and assurance role, focused on strengthening oversight, improving learning and helping Scouts respond effectively to current and emerging safeguarding risks.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

· Provide strategic advice, challenge and independent scrutiny to support the Committee in discharging its responsibilities.

· Assist the Committee in ensuring that Scouts remains at the forefront of safeguarding practice and development.

· Review safeguarding performance information, assurance reports, learning reports and risk information to support effective oversight.

· Contribute to the Committee’s review of safeguarding assurance activity, quality assurance findings, thematic reviews, and organisational learning arising from safeguarding incidents and case reviews.

· Contribute to the development and review of safeguarding policies, procedures, guidance and assurance arrangements.

· Help identify emerging safeguarding risks and opportunities affecting young people, volunteers and the wider organisation.

· Support the Committee’s oversight of safeguarding culture, organisational learning and continuous improvement.

· Participate in monitoring and reviewing safeguarding risks delegated to the Committee by the Board.

· Contribute to discussions on strategic priorities and future safeguarding developments across Scouting.

· Act as an advocate for excellent safeguarding practice and a culture that places the safety and wellbeing of young people at its centre.

THE PERSON

Skills

· Communicate effectively with senior volunteers, trustees, staff and external stakeholders.

· Analyse complex information and exercise sound judgement.

· Provide constructive challenge and independent scrutiny.

· Contribute effectively within a strategic committee environment.

· Work collaboratively while maintaining independence of thought.

· Quickly develop an understanding of Scouts, its governance arrangements and safeguarding framework.

EXPERIENCE

The Committee is particularly seeking candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas.

· Priority area: substantial expertise in digital safeguarding, including online safety, digital harms, safeguarding in online environments, social media risks, emerging technology risks and child protection risks associated with digital platforms.

· Additional areas of interest: family law, social care practice or leadership, child protection and safeguarding within statutory services, law enforcement experience relating to safeguarding, horizon scanning, regulatory or inspection environments, quality assurance, or safeguarding within youth, education, faith or voluntary sector settings.

CHARECTERISTICS

· Commitment to the purpose and values of Scouts.

· Strong personal integrity and sound judgement.

· Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk.

· Ability to operate strategically and objectively.

· Sufficient time available to fulfil the role.

TIME COMMITMENT AND MEETINGS

The Safeguarding Committee normally meets four times per year, with three meetings held virtually and one longer meeting held face-to-face. Members will also be expected to read papers in advance of meetings and may occasionally be consulted between meetings on specific matters.

Applicants should expect to spend around two days per quarter on Committee business after the induction phase, including preparation, attendance and follow-up activity.

APPOINTMENT TERM

Appointments will normally be for an initial three-year term, subject to a six-month review, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term by mutual agreement.

REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES

In common with other registered charities, there is no remuneration directly associated with the role. The Scout Association will reimburse reasonable and properly documented expenses incurred in performing the role in accordance with its Expenses Policy.

Become a Fundraising Volunteer with Cats Protection!

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

 What we need from you

You’ll be:

· help set up and/or man stalls at events

· help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections

· help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances

· promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

 You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats. 

About the Role

As a Maintenance Volunteer, you will help maintain and improve the homes and environments of people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities. Your support will help create safe, comfortable, and welcoming spaces where people can thrive.

This role involves practical tasks such as painting, decorating, gardening, and general DIY. Please note that electrical, plumbing, and gas work are not included in this volunteer role.

 The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

• Improve the appearance and comfort of people's homes.
• Create safe and welcoming environments.
• Support people to feel proud of where they live.
• Enhance the wellbeing of the people we support.

 What You Will Do

• Assist with painting and decorating projects.
• Carry out basic DIY tasks and minor repairs.
• Help with gardening and outdoor maintenance.
• Support with assembling furniture and equipment.
• Follow health and safety guidance at all times.
• Report any maintenance concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Practical and reliable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Happy to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Complete volunteer induction and training.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and health and safety procedures.
• Applicants must live near the volunteering location.

About Us

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. In 2024 we  celebrated our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Art Explora is a non-profit arts organisation that aims to share arts and culture with everyone - locally, nationally and internationally - and inspire new encounters between arts and audiences.

Arts at Home supports older people to access arts and culture by encouraging conversation and connection through art. We are looking for volunteers to participate in our "Arts at Home" sessions in residential care homes. In these sessions, you will introduce works of art of your choice and facilitate conversations around the artworks with residents. No prior professional experience is needed; we will provide you with the necessary training.

You will need to be able to travel to Birmingham locations independently (pre agreed local travel expenses paid). 

Why you'll love it:

• You will meet new people & alleviate feelings of loneliness through creativity and connection.
• You will be offered spaces on trips to galleries and theatres with our care setting residents as part of our ‘Art Explorers at...’ project. 
• You will learn about art, heritage, and history, through your research and other volunteers.
• You will develop communication and public speaking skills
• You will gain experience working with vulnerable adults and build an understanding of how art can support a sense of community and wellbeing. 

If you are a confident communicator and passionate about arts, we would love to hear from you!

Maintenance Volunteer

About the Role

As a Maintenance Volunteer, you will help maintain and improve the homes and environments of people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities. Your support will help create safe, comfortable, and welcoming spaces where people can thrive.

This role involves practical tasks such as painting, decorating, gardening, and general DIY. Please note that electrical, plumbing, and gas work are not included in this volunteer role.

 The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

• Improve the appearance and comfort of people's homes.
• Create safe and welcoming environments.
• Support people to feel proud of where they live.
• Enhance the wellbeing of the people we support.

 What You Will Do

• Assist with painting and decorating projects.
• Carry out basic DIY tasks and minor repairs.
• Help with gardening and outdoor maintenance.
• Support with assembling furniture and equipment.
• Follow health and safety guidance at all times.
• Report any maintenance concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Practical and reliable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Happy to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

 Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Complete volunteer induction and training.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and health and safety procedures.

Interested?

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

By volunteering with SeeAbility, you can help create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered.

Bristol Memory Walk is back for 2026, and so are our amazing volunteering opportunities. Memory Walk is so much more than a sponsored walk. Every year thousands of people come together to remember and bring hope for a brighter future.  It will take a society to beat dementia and by volunteering at Memory Walk you can be a part of it.

This is a walk like no other; this is thousands of people walking for a better future for those with dementia. Join the volunteer team on Saturday 3rd October at Lloyds Amphitheatre, in Bristol. 

There is something for everyone, with roles based in the event site and along the route. Be part of an unforgettable event experience as you cheer at a marshal point, follow the route as a back marker, sell some goodies or congratulate walkers with their finish line medal. You will have the opportunity to pair up with a friend or another volunteer and we’ll make sure you have everything you need! 

Sign up to volunteer at Memory Walk this October! 

Are you a creative, friendly, open-minded person who wants to gain experience working with Children? Caudwell Children are looking for volunteers to help with our Short Break Activity Sessions!

Our Short Break Activity Sessions enable disabled children to access fun, inspirational and challenging leisure activities that build life skills and promote independence whilst providing carers with vital short break respite.

With our support, disabled children and young people get to explore their interests, talents and develop vital life skills. Activities can lead to ASDAN accreditation. Short break activities build future hopes and aspirations and provide children with the confidence to achieve their full potential.

Roles and Responsibilities:

- Assist Caudwell Children staff member(s) in running the short break activity sessions

- Help to ensure all children are safe during the activity sessions

- Support staff members with planned activities

- Participate in setting up an activity and helping with the set down

- Communicate and work with the children to ensure they have fun

Person Specification:

Essential Criteria

- Friendly and approachable personality

- Punctual and reliable

- Experience of working/ volunteering with children

- Creative personality

Desirable Criteria

- Experience of working/ volunteering with children with an additional need

- Experience of working/ volunteering in a charity/ third sector

- Experience of education or an educational setting

This role takes place on weekends only. We suggest a minimum commitment of 6 months for this role – full training and support will be provided.

Are you a creative, friendly, open-minded person who wants to gain experience working with Children? Caudwell Children are looking for volunteers to help with our Short Break Activity Sessions!

Our Short Break Activity Sessions enable disabled children to access fun, inspirational and challenging leisure activities that build life skills and promote independence whilst providing carers with vital short break respite.

With our support, disabled children and young people get to explore their interests, talents and develop vital life skills. Activities can lead to ASDAN accreditation. Short break activities build future hopes and aspirations and provide children with the confidence to achieve their full potential.

Roles and Responsibilities:

- Assist Caudwell Children staff member(s) in running the short break activity sessions

- Help to ensure all children are safe during the activity sessions

- Support staff members with planned activities

- Participate in setting up an activity and helping with the set down

- Communicate and work with the children to ensure they have fun

Person Specification:

Essential Criteria

- Friendly and approachable personality

- Punctual and reliable

- Experience of working/ volunteering with children

- Creative personality

Desirable Criteria

- Experience of working/ volunteering with children with an additional need

- Experience of working/ volunteering in a charity/ third sector

- Experience of education or an educational setting

This role takes place on weekends only. We suggest a minimum commitment of 6 months for this role – full training and support will be provided.

Volunteering Opportunity

Administration Assistant

What You’ll Do

Support the Age UK Enfield team with general admin tasks that help our services run smoothly. You’ll help with email communication, data entry, and other simple office duties.

You will:

· Help respond to and send emails from shared inboxes (with support and supervision)

· Input volunteer, client, or service data into our CRM system (training provided)

· Update spreadsheets, mailing lists or booking systems

· Support with printing, scanning or filing where needed

· Maintain confidentiality and accuracy when handling information

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

· Basic IT and email skills (Outlook, Microsoft Office)

· Attention to detail and a methodical approach

· Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team

· Good written communication

Time Commitment

Flexible – ideally one regular half-day or full day per week
Monday to Friday, between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm

Location: Age UK Enfield office or remote
Reports to: Relevant team lead or manager, depending on the area of support

Ready to Apply?

Our Volunteer Opportunities Pack and Volunteer Application Form are attached and available to download.

If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, simply complete the application form and email it to us (email address included in application pack)

Once we've received your application, we'll arrange an informal telephone chat to discuss the volunteer role(s) you're interested in, answer any questions you may have, and help you find the opportunity that's the best fit for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!

About the Role

As a Maintenance Volunteer, you will help maintain and improve the homes and environments of people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities. Your support will help create safe, comfortable, and welcoming spaces where people can thrive.

This role involves practical tasks such as painting, decorating, gardening, and general DIY. Please note that electrical, plumbing, and gas work are not included in this volunteer role.

The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

• Improve the appearance and comfort of people's homes.
• Create safe and welcoming environments.
• Support people to feel proud of where they live.
• Enhance the wellbeing of the people we support.

What You Will Do

• Assist with painting and decorating projects.
• Conduct basic DIY tasks and minor repairs.
• Help with gardening and outdoor maintenance.
• Support with assembling furniture and equipment.
• Follow health and safety guidance at all times.
• Report any maintenance concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Practical and dependable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Happy to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Live close to Aylesbury
• Complete volunteer induction and training.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and health and safety procedures.

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

By volunteering with SeeAbility, you can help create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered.

The Wren Project is a volunteer-led charity that provides free, remote, one-to-one, ongoing listening support for people in distress and living with autoimmune disease. There are over 120 autoimmune diseases currently diagnosed by the NHS and these include Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis and Crohn's disease- they are all chronic illnesses which can have life altering impacts.

Volunteers at the Wren Project provide emotional listening support to people with autoimmune disease (our Wrens). In appointments, volunteers offer listening support, where Wrens can talk about how autoimmune disease is impacting their life, without giving advice or offering solutions. Volunteers join a regular fortnightly shift during which they meet with up to 2 Wrens in two 50-minute appointments. 

Volunteers do not need to have qualifications or any knowledge or experience of autoimmune disease. We are looking for warm, empathetic, caring and resilient individuals who want to help others and have the time to offer ongoing, non-judgemental, listening support. 

We are the only charity in the UK who provide support for all autoimmune diseases. Our vision is to build support and community for all four million people in the UK diagnosed with autoimmune disease. Our service would not be possible without the commitment, empathy and support of our volunteers.

WHAT VOLUNTEERING FOR US INVOLVES:

Application and training process:

• Send an application form via our website;

• Attend a group information and discovery conversation where you will learn more about the Wren Project and the listening role 

• Applicants will be invited to participate in a remote, 5-week training programme focusing on listening skills, courageous inquiry, turning towards difficulty and living with autoimmune disease;

• A final one-to-one assessment of readiness before being matched with a Wren.

• Please note, we access an applicant’s suitability for the role throughout the process.

The role:

• Join a regular fortnightly shift, whereby you will support two Wrens in two separate, one-to-one sessions of 50 minutes via telephone/video call/online.

• A self-reflective approach to learning and development supported by staff-led reflective practice sessions. Monthly attendance required for the initial six months.

• Access to ongoing support from other volunteers and the Operations team;

• Opportunities to support the charity in a variety of additional roles.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN VOLUNTEERS:

• A desire to support people in times of distress.

• An empathetic and understanding attitude.

• A commitment to offering ongoing support to those in distress and to reflect upon the experience.

• A quiet and private space to conduct appointments.

• Access to a computer, telephone and a reliable internet connection.

• Confidentiality, professionalism and reliability.

• The commitment to volunteer at the Wren Project for at least one year.

WHAT WE OFFER OUR VOLUNTEERS:

• Lifelong skills in deep listening.

• Extensive training in empathetic listening and supporting distress.

• An excellent opportunity to engage in ongoing personal reflection and development in a supportive charity environment.

• A self-reflective approach to learning and development.

• An insight into life with chronic illness and mental health.

 Volunteering Opportunity 

Gardening Volunteer – Day Care Centre

What You’ll Do

Support the development and maintenance of our allotment space at the Mabel Churn Day Care Centre. You’ll help create a calm, welcoming outdoor environment where older people can enjoy nature, take part in light gardening activities, and connect with others.

You will:

· Help maintain the allotment space (e.g. watering, weeding, planting, harvesting)

· Support the set-up and upkeep of planting areas, raised beds, or pots

· Encourage and support clients to get involved in simple gardening tasks

· Help keep the outdoor space safe, tidy, and accessible

· Work with staff to plan seasonal planting or small garden projects

· Report any concerns or maintenance needs to staff

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

· Interest in gardening or outdoor activities (no expert knowledge needed)

· Friendly and patient approach when engaging with older people

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team

· Basic understanding of health and safety in an outdoor setting

· Creativity and initiative in developing the space

· Reliable and committed

Time Commitment

Flexible – ideally 2-4 hours per week

Weekdays 10:00 am and 2:00 pm

Location: The Mabel Churn Centre, 55b Sunny Road, Enfield, EN3 5EF

Reports to: Day Centre Manager

Ready to Apply?

Our Volunteer Opportunities Pack and Volunteer Application Form are attached and available to download.

If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, simply complete the application form and email it to us. (Email address included in the application pack)

Once we've received your application, we'll arrange an informal telephone chat to discuss the volunteer role(s) you're interested in, answer any questions you may have, and help you find the opportunity that's the best fit for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!