Volunteer befriender volunteer roles in city of london, greater london

Are you looking for a meaningful, flexible way to support others? Join the Talking Bubble Project and help tackle loneliness through the power of a simple phone call.

Since the pandemic, many befriending services have wound down—but Talking Bubble remains one of the few projects still offering regular, phone-based companionship to those who need it most. Demand for this kind of support remains high, and we’re actively looking for kind, compassionate English-speaking volunteers to help meet this growing need.

What is the Talking Bubble Project?

☎︎ It’s a phone-based befriending service that connects volunteers with older adults and vulnerable individuals across the UK who are experiencing loneliness and social isolation. By committing just a little time each week, you can offer someone the warmth of conversation and a regular point of connection.

Why Volunteer With Us?

✔ Make a genuine impact on someone's life
✔ Enjoy flexible volunteering hours from the comfort of your home
✔ Receive full training, ongoing support, and a reference upon completion
✔ Boost your sense of purpose and community

What You’ll Need

✅ No experience required—just a kind heart, a listening ear, and a willingness to talk
✅ Volunteers must complete Safeguarding Adults Level 2 training and undergo a DBS check—we cover the cost of both
✅ Must be a UK resident

How to Get Involved

Apply now via the CharityJob website, or contact us directly for more information. Together, we can keep connection alive—one call at a time.

We take children on voyages as readers and writers. Volunteer with us to join the adventure!  

Who are Literacy Pirates? 

Through our year-long after-school programme, we develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance of children aged 9-13 who are falling behind in class and have fewer opportunities in their personal lives, so that they can succeed at school and beyond.  

Children join us in our fantastical, pirate-themed space in Hackney to practise their reading and writing. We also publish their work in the real world so that every Young Pirate finishes the programme a published author, journalist and film star!  

What does a Volunteer do?  

As a Volunteer Crewmate, your role is to come along to our sessions in Hackney and help children practise their reading and writing in small groups by providing constant encouragement, positivity and celebration of their achievements. 

Sessions are led and managed by staff, which means you can dedicate the whole time you’re with us to providing direct support to the children.  

You will:  

• Receive full training.

• Gain experience working with children and leading small groups.

• Develop your communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.

• Take part in games and have fun. 

• Be invited to celebration events with the children to see the difference that you’ve made.  

We offer employment references, for volunteers who have fulfilled their commitment of 12 sessions with us.  

What are we looking for?  

We ask volunteers to give just three hours per month, although you are welcome to volunteer as frequently as you like!  

Sessions run every weekday during term time from 3:45 to 6:45 p.m. and you will have the flexibility to select which sessions you would like to attend. Please note, we do not run sessions during half terms or the Christmas, Easter and Summer holidays. 

No experience is required to become a volunteer – just a desire to help children develop their reading and writing skills! Full training is provided.  

All we ask is that you:  

• Are aged 16+  

• Must be a UK resident, and are able to commute to our Hackney ship  

• Complete a criminal background check (we cover the cost of this) 

Our Hackney ship is located at: 

138 Kingsland High Street 

London

E8 2NS

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 500 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated & new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

Our retail stores are the face of our charity on the high-street and in local communities. We have loads of amazing stock donated to us every week, and this all needs to be sorted, tagged and put on the shop-floor for sale!

Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till too, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.

You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.

Why we want you

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 700 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

What you will be doing

• Work on the till processing sales and returns
• Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
• Create stylish window displays
• Replenish stock on the shop floor
• Stock-take and other administrative tasks

The skills you need

• Friendly and helpful
• Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
• Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
• Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks

What's in it for you

• Have fun and meet new people
• Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
• Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
• Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
• Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer

Location:

2 Broadway Parade, Crouch End, Greater London, N8 9DE, United Kingdom

Minimum age: 14 years

Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK

Volunteer Co-chair at Watford and Three Rivers Refugee Partnership (WTRRP)

Job summary: 

We're looking for a Co-chair to lead and shape the strategic vision of WTRRP as we move forward into our 25th year as a charity. We are looking for someone to support us with our strategy in line with our mission and our values. In this role, you will act as one of two Trustee committee co-chairs of the charity, responsible for the agenda and actions of Trustee meetings and AGM, improving good governance and acting as a senior ambassador of the organisation. We are looking for someone with enthusiasm, availability and leadership skills to work collaboratively with staff and volunteers.

WTRRP exists to support asylum seekers and refugees in Watford and Three Rivers who do not yet have settled status in the UK or may have specific needs relating to their application process or welfare. The main services of the charity are a drop-in session and social hub every Tuesday (at St Mary’s Church in central Watford), ESOL classes, providing financial support and advice to its clients and assisting them to integrate into the local community.

The Partnership has grown dramatically over the past 5 years, which is why we are looking for a co-chair to join us. WTRRP is run by a committee that meets typically every 2 months and it also provides supervision to our 3 staff members and support to our 70 volunteers.

We would welcome applicants with any of the following experience:

• Governance and previous Committee experience
• Business development and charitable fundraising
• Human resources and people management
• Lived experience of being a Refugee or Migrant
• Financial background

Principal responsibilities:

1. Be part of the Committee, supporting the organisation as it grows and develops.
2. Have availability to regularly attend the Tuesday hub at St. Marys church from 11- 2pm to support the team and be present.
3. Oversee the administration and coordination of sub-committees.
4. Serve as line-manager to the Caseworker and conduct planned supervision and appraisals.
5. Represent the Partnership as required to the public or external parties such as funders and Community groups.

This is an important role that will support the charity as we adapt and change. If you feel that you may have some of the skills we are looking for and want to have an initial chat with our chair, then please contact us.

Are you a Pashto 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 Pashto-speaking community experience loneliness and isolation. By giving just a small amount of your time each week, you can make a big difference — offering 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 calls, you’ll help build friendships, brighten someone’s day, and offer emotional support — especially for those more comfortable speaking Pashto.

� Why volunteer with us?

✔ Support members of the Pashto-speaking community in the UK
✔ Make a real difference in someone’s life
✔ Enjoy flexible volunteering hours
✔ Receive training, ongoing support, and a reference upon completion
✔ Boost your own sense of fulfilment and purpose

✅ What’s required?

✔ Completion of online Safeguarding Adults Level 2 training
✔ A DBS check (both fully funded by us)
✔ A kind and compassionate approach, and a willingness to engage in friendly conversations

� How to get involved:

Apply through the CharityJob website — no previous experience needed.
This opportunity is open to UK residents only.

Help us bring connection and kindness to the Pashto-speaking community across the UK!

Are you an Arabic 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 Arabic-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 Arabic.

Why volunteer with us?

✔ Support members of the Arabic-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 through the CharityJob 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 Arabic-speaking community across the UK!

We are seeking a skilled and passionate Volunteer Trust & Grant Bid Writer to help secure funding that will enable us to continue and grow our life-transforming work in Christian mental health. Working with the Director of Development, the role will involve identifying funding opportunities, preparing compelling grant applications, and helping us build strong relationships with trusts and foundations aligned with our mission.

Mercy UK is a Christian mental health and wellbeing charity, committed to equipping people to live free and stay free through a range of trauma-informed, faith-based support services. From our flagship Freedom Journey programme to practical resources like Keys to Freedom, we support individuals navigating emotional and spiritual challenges and empower churches and Christian organisations to provide meaningful, transformational support.

Key Responsibilities

● Research suitable grant-making trusts and foundations, with a particular focus on those funding mental health, faith-based initiatives, and/or community wellbeing.

● Work closely with the Director of Development to maintain a pipeline of prospective funders.

● Draft high-quality, tailored funding applications that reflect the heart, outcomes, and impact of Mercy UK’s work.

● Collate and interpret project data, outcomes, and financial information to support applications.

● Support the development of template responses and maintain accurate records of submissions and outcomes.

● Assist in preparing follow-up reports or updates required by funders.

What We’re Looking For

● Strong written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive and inspiring content.

● Attention to detail and the ability to work independently.

● Experience of fundraising through trusts and foundations, or equivalent transferable experience in writing bids or proposals.

● An ability to articulate and represent Christian values and ethos respectfully and effectively in written applications.

● Passion for mental health and wellbeing, and alignment with Mercy UK’s mission and values. 

What You’ll Gain

● The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a growing, impactful charity.

● Experience in trust and grant fundraising, with support and guidance from our development team.

● A chance to use your skills to directly support the emotional, spiritual, and mental wellbeing of individuals across the UK and beyond.

● References and testimonials for future opportunities.

● Access to Mercy UK’s Employee Assistance Programme with Health Assured

Are you a Portuguese 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 Portuguese-speaking community experience loneliness and social isolation. By giving just a small amount of your time each week, you can make a real difference — offering companionship and a friendly voice in their native language.

What is the Talking Bubble Project?
It’s a phone-based service connecting volunteers with individuals who may feel isolated or lonely. Through regular conversations, you’ll help build friendships, brighten someone’s day, and provide emotional support — especially for those more comfortable speaking Portuguese.

Why volunteer with us?
✔ Support members of the Portuguese-speaking community in the UK
✔ Make a genuine difference in someone’s life
✔ Enjoy flexible volunteering hours
✔ Receive training, ongoing support, and a reference upon completion
✔ Boost your own sense of fulfilment and purpose

What’s required?
✔ Completion of online Safeguarding Adults Level 2 training (funded by us)
✔ A DBS check (also fully funded)
✔ A kind, compassionate approach and a willingness to engage in friendly conversations

How to get involved:
Apply through the CharityJob website — no previous experience needed.
This opportunity is open to UK residents only.

Help us bring connection and kindness to the Portuguese-speaking community across the UK!

Want to make a difference without breaking a sweat? Join our incredible team of Cheer Team Volunteers and help support runners taking in the Royal Parks Half to raise money for Alzheimer's Society.

You'll be part of a high energy, feel-good atmosphere, giving our runners the boost they need with your cheers, claps, and encouragement.

By joining us, you’re helping us fulfil our mission: to give help to those living with dementia today and provide hope for the future.

What’s involved:

· Stand at a designated cheer point on the race route

· Clap, shout, wave flags and motivate runners

· Work alongside a friendly, supportive team

What you’ll get:

· A fun and rewarding experience

· Branded t-shirt

· A chance to make a real impact in just a few hours

No previous experience is needed just bring your energy, your voice, and your enthusiasm!

Ready to join our Cheer Squad? Sign up today and help us celebrate every step toward a dementia-free future.

Job Title: Volunteer Trainee Roller Sports Coach

Location: Various venues across the UK (including after-school clubs and community programmes)

Position Type: Volunteer – 8 to 16 weeks (initial commitment)

Expenses: Travel and other agreed expenses will be reimbursed

About RollaDome All Skate: RollaDome All Skate is a charity committed to making roller sports accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities. Through structured coaching and community activities, we promote active lifestyles, personal development, and teamwork in a supportive environment.

Role Overview: We are looking for enthusiastic Volunteer Trainee Coaches to join our team and support the delivery of roller sports sessions across multiple venues in the UK. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are passionate about working with young people, developing their coaching skills, and gaining hands-on experience in a community sports setting. The role provides valuable practical experience alongside mentoring and training, ideal for anyone considering a future in sports coaching, youth work, or education.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support Lead Coaches in delivering fun, inclusive roller sports sessions.

• Assist participants in developing fundamental skating skills and confidence.

• Help with the set-up and pack-down of equipment at sessions.

• Provide encouragement and positive feedback to participants.

• Maintain a safe environment by following health and safety guidelines.

• Take part in training and mentoring to build your skills.

• Act as a positive role model, promoting inclusion, respect, and enjoyment.

• Engage with participants, parents, and staff in a friendly, professional manner.

Person Specification: Essential:

• Enthusiasm for sport, coaching, and working with young people. 

• Willingness to learn and develop roller sports and coaching skills.

• Good communication and teamwork skills. • Reliable, punctual, and able to travel to different venues as required.

• Ability to work flexible hours, including after-school sessions and occasional weekends.

• Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and health and safety.

• Possession of a valid Enhanced DBS Check (or willingness to obtain one prior to starting).

Desirable:

• Intermediate or advanced roller skating skills.

• Experience working with children or young people in a community or sports setting.

• A recognised sports coaching qualification (any sport considered).

What We Offer:

• Mentoring and practical coaching experience.

• The opportunity to develop your roller sports and coaching skills.

• A positive, supportive team environment.

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel and agreed expenses.

• A meaningful role that contributes to improving young people’s lives.

• A potential pathway to paid coaching opportunities within RollaDome All Skate.

It Gets Better UK is a lived-experience-led LGBT+ youth charity, working to tackle the disproportionate mental health challenges LGBT+ young people face today, through a collection of community-sourced, lived-experience stories; educational programs; and community-building initiatives.

About the role

We are looking for a volunteer to support It Gets Better UK in securing trust and foundation funding. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys research, writing, and bringing together a compelling case for support. You’ll help us continue telling stories that inspire, uplift, and empower LGBTQ+ young people.

What you’ll do

• Research grant-making bodies, trusts, and foundations that align with our mission.
• Draft and edit funding applications with guidance from our team.
• Support with tracking deadlines and requirements for applications and reports.
• Work alongside our CEO and small team to identify new funding opportunities.

What we’re looking for

• Strong written communication skills.
• An eye for detail and the ability to follow funder guidelines.
• Enthusiasm for It Gets Better UK’s mission and values.
• Previous experience in grant writing or research is helpful but not essential — we can support you to grow into the role.

Overview

In partnership with a second, and possibly third Leader, you will lead a Fire (Group) of 8-12 Young Explorers. Social Leader role is to ensure that all young people can develop and thrive on our expeditions. They provide additional support with pastoral care and behavioural management for young people, particularly those facing challenges. Social Leaders will have demonstrable experience of working with young people in residential environments.

We are looking for applicants who are:

• Able and passionate about leading, inspiring, and facilitating sessions with young people.
• Comfortable spending extended periods in remote and sometimes harsh environments.
• Able to commit to all pre-expedition training events. 

As a charity, all Leader positions are undertaken on a voluntary basis and Leaders join for the intrinsic value of adventure, education, and personal development of young people. 

Expedition medical teams are devised for each of our expeditions on a thorough assessment of medical requirements, considering a range of factors including but not limited to the environment, client group and access to local facilities/services. Our medical teams consist of fully qualified medical professionals and may include doctors and other healthcare professionals, such as nurses or paramedic, with appropriate specialist experience. Our expeditions include both Senior and standard medics. 

Overview

In partnership with a second, and possibly third Leader, you will lead a Fire (Group) of 8-12 Young Explorers. The Knowledge Leader should combine science and creative activities to help Young Explorers better understand the unique wilderness they explore, and develop curiosity for the future. To achieve this, it is the responsibility of the Senior Knowledge Leader, Knowledge Leaders and the collaboration of all leaders to design and deliver a programme of inspirational, educational projects.

We are looking for applicants who are:

• Able and passionate about leading, inspiring, and facilitating sessions with young people.
• Comfortable spending extended periods in remote and sometimes harsh environments.
• Able to commit to all pre-expedition training events. 

As a charity, all Leader positions are undertaken on a voluntary basis and Leaders join for the intrinsic value of adventure, education, and personal development of young people. You do not have to fundraise to lead on our expeditions.