Volunteer roles in cumbria or north west

Bring your strategic expertise and financial acumen to the Board of Hugh Baird College, an outstanding organisation with no intention of standing still whilst seeking to be the best in the country.

Location: Liverpool, Merseyside, North West

Time commitment: Around 10 – 12 hours per month

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 19th January.

At Hugh Baird College, we provide education and training to over 6,000 students each year across our two campuses in Bootle and Sefton. We offer a diverse range of educational pathways, including study programmes for young people, A Levels and apprenticeships. We are recognised as a beacon of opportunity across the communities we serve and are proud of the many ways we continue to support a range of stakeholders, including our students, our staff, and an ever-growing number of local employers.

Our vision is simple: to be the best college in the country, and to achieve this by living our values of excellence, accountability, innovation, collaboration, and integrity. Whilst we may now be recognised as outstanding, we continue to work with passion and determination to achieve our vision. 

About the role

Our Board is a collaborative and inclusive body formed of up to 20 members, up to 15 of whom are independent Governors. We have a diversity of expertise as well as thought, which helps our Board ensure that we continue to have a group of committed and determined volunteer non-executives who each share in the vision and mission of our college.

Our governors each share the responsibility for developing our organisational strategy and for setting the educational character of our college. They model the behaviours we expect from our staff and our students, which helps us to sustain such a vibrant culture across the College and they are each a positive and vocal ambassador for the work that we do.

Having given consideration to our strategy and the future aspirations of our colleges, we have identified a need to add further depth to our Board, and more specifically, we seek to appoint candidates who will bring experience in the areas of:

• Financial leadership and strategy
• Audit
• Risk mitigation

Who we are looking for

We are looking for professionals who will use their experience and expertise within their professional field to offer appropriate levels of challenge, scrutiny and support as we continue to achieve our strategic objectives and improve student outcomes. You will need a passion for success and recognise the important impact education has on the communities we serve.

New governors are welcome to apply, provided they are keen to bring their experience to an organisation with a social conscience and a demonstrable track record of positive impact. All new members will be supported with a full induction, ongoing support, and training.

Peridot Partners and Hugh Baird College are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9a.m. Monday 19th January.

Support inclusive spirituality, education, and compassionate leadership

OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation is a registered educational charity, founded in 1996, that promotes inclusive spirituality and serves people of all faiths, and none. We train open-hearted adults to serve their communities as interfaith ministers, celebrants, and spiritual companions, supporting life’s important moments through ceremony, ritual, and compassionate care.

Organisational purpose

To benefit the public by the education of mature adults in:

• the core principles of the world’s religions, faiths, and spiritual traditions;

• principles and methods of forgiveness, reconciliation and peace-making;

• and the practice of non-denominational spiritual and pastoral service in the community.

Our Vision

is a world in which humanity awakens into an inclusive global spirituality that encompasses us all in the field of love and life.

Our Mission

is to work towards evolving consciousness in the world, by facilitating open-hearted people to awaken to inner leadership and their capacity for forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace-making.

We are currently seeking new Trustees to join our Board and help shape the future of our organisation. We're especially interested in individuals with experience in marketing, legal affairs, HR, adult education, fundraising, finance, or IT.

This is a meaningful opportunity to:

• Help guide an organisation where spiritual exploration meets learning, where inclusive communities flourish, and where people are supported to offer spiritual care with courage, compassion, and understanding.

• Contribute your professional skills in a nonprofit trustee role aligned with your values

• Help grow an organisation at the intersection of education, spirituality, and social transformation

What We’re Looking For:

We welcome applications from individuals with experience in any of the following areas:

• Marketing, communications, or branding

• Charity law or legal compliance

• Fundraising, development, or grant-writing

• Finance, accounting, or business planning

• Human Resources or organisational development

• Education or curriculum development

• Interfaith ministry, chaplaincy, or spiritual direction

That said, please don’t be discouraged if you don’t tick every box. If you feel inspired by our values and can uphold our Code of Ethics, we warmly encourage you to apply or get in touch for a conversation! 

You do not need to be a OneSpirit minister or graduate, we welcome interest from both alumni and the wider community.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a values-led, inclusive team committed to compassion and transformation

• Support a charity making a meaningful impact in spiritual education and interfaith work

• Develop new skills in nonprofit governance and strategic leadership

• Connect with a thoughtful, heart-centred network of trustees, staff, and ministers

Commitment to Inclusion:

We believe our strength lies in the richness of our differences. We are wholeheartedly committed to building a Board that reflects the diverse communities we serve, across race, gender, age, sexuality, ability, culture, faith, identity, background, and lived experience.

Whether your path has been traditional or unconventional, whether you’re seasoned in governance or bringing your voice to a boardroom for the first time, you are welcome here.

If you feel called to contribute, we would be honoured to hear from you.

Interested in Joining Us? 

At OneSpirit, there are many ways to contribute to a more compassionate and connected world. Whether through leadership, service, or spiritual growth, your presence makes a difference.

If you feel drawn to our mission and want to offer your time, wisdom, and heart to OneSpirit’s future, we’d love to hear from you. 

You can learn more about our team, our work, and our organisation on our website.

Curious about the training we offer? Come and train with an organisation committed to spiritual exploration, nurturing inclusive communities of care, and creating spaces where understanding and belonging can flourish. Explore the Cherry Tree Pathway, our two-year ministry and spiritual development training, and begin your journey today. Learn more about our training from our website.

Join the Unify Giving Social Impact Squad ��

Unify Giving is a UK-registered social enterprise reimagining the way people give.

We help donors send direct, digital support to people experiencing homelessness or domestic violence — safely and transparently — through our verified charity partners. Every donation goes straight to a real individual, who can then exchange it for vouchers for essentials like food, transport, and wellbeing support.

We’re now looking for a creative volunteer to help us bring this journey to life in a short animated explainer video — showing how a donation travels from a donor, to an individual, and then to real impact.

✨ What we’re looking for

• Someone who can create animated or motion graphic videos.

• An eye for storytelling — helping us make the process simple, emotional, and inspiring.

• Able to work with our team on a short brief (60–90 seconds).

• Bonus if you can add light background music or voice-over.

�� What you’ll get

• A featured volunteer credit on our website and socials.

• Portfolio exposure across our growing platforms.

• The chance to use your creative skills for real-world social impact.

• A friendly, passionate team making giving more human again.

If you’re ready to use your animation skills for good, we’d love to hear from you (please send your portfolio on application). 

Let’s make generosity visible. ��

About Emetophobia Action Charity

Emetophobia Action is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting individuals affected by emetophobia (the fear of vomiting). We work to raise awareness, provide reliable information, and campaign for better understanding and treatment within healthcare and educational settings.

We are a small but passionate team of clinicians and volunteers striving to make a real difference to those living with this often misunderstood condition.

Role Purpose

As a Fundraiser, you will help us grow our income to expand our reach, awareness campaigns, and events including in person conferences. This is a rewarding opportunity to use your creativity and communication skills to make a lasting impact on people affected by emetophobia.

Key Responsibilities

 •  Develop and deliver creative fundraising ideas and campaigns (online or community-based).

 •  Research and apply for small grants, sponsorships, or community funding opportunities.

 •  Organise or assist with virtual and in-person fundraising events (e.g., sponsored challenges, charity auctions, awareness days, conferences).

 •  Build relationships with local businesses, donors, and supporters.

 •  Promote fundraising activities across social media and community networks.

 •  Work collaboratively with the charity team to track and report fundraising outcomes.

Skills and Experience (Desirable but Not Essential)

 •  Experience or interest in fundraising, marketing, or communications.

 •  Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

 •  Organised, reliable, and self-motivated.

 •  Confident using email, social media, and online fundraising platforms.

 •  A creative mindset and enthusiasm for generating new ideas.

 •  Passion for mental health advocacy and supporting those with emetophobia.

What You’ll Gain

 •  Valuable experience in charity fundraising and community engagement.

 •  The opportunity to make a meaningful difference for people affected by emetophobia.

 •  Flexible volunteering to fit around your commitments.

 •  Support, guidance, and recognition from a friendly and understanding team.

 •  References and certificates to recognise your contribution.

How to Apply

Please send a brief cover letter outlining your interest and any relevant experience. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences, including those with personal experience of emetophobia or anxiety disorders.

At St John Ambulance, we are looking to develop our volunteering offer and become an even more integral part of our communities through delivering community first aid and education. 

We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference. Through volunteering as an Emergency Responder, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering essential first aid and lifesaving clinical care at community and major events in your areas, including at sporting events, concerts, community festivals.

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Attendance at local meetings (2 per month) at Preston, Lancaster or Kirkham. Completion of the Emergency Responder Training course.

Interviews will be held at one of the three locations in Lancashire West (Kirkham, Lancaster or Preston) on there respective training nights.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2025

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Action Tutoring is a national education charity that offers free maths and English tutoring to pupils facing disadvantage. 

By volunteering as a tutor at a local school or online, you'll be supporting children to build their confidence and help ensure they leave school with the grades needed to build a bright future.

What will I be doing?

• Tutoring 1-3 pupils in Year 5 or 6, or Year 7, 10 or 11.

• Commit to one hour a week, for up to 20 weeks. You choose the day and time to sign up to.

• Use our tutor workbooks to guide your pupils through activities that will boost their confidence and grades.

What you'll gain:

• Receive induction training, tutor workbooks and ongoing support.

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

• Meet like-minded people in our volunteer community.

• Travel expense reimbursement (up to £5 per session).

• Free DBS check.

This volunteer role is perfect for you if you:

• Are passionate about making a difference and helping young people succeed, particularly those facing disadvantage.

• Seek valuable experience working with children and are eager to hone essential skills such as communication, mentorship, and leadership – all highly valued in any career path.

• Have a busy schedule but are keen to contribute to your community, as this flexible role requires just one hour a week, either in-person or conveniently online.

We look for volunteers with:

• Solid subject knowledge in the area they wish to tutor, which may be demonstrated by a degree or grade B at A-level qualification (or equivalent) or relevant experience.

• The ability to explain concepts clearly and patiently.

• A commitment to supporting pupils’ academic progress.

We recognise that valuable experience can be gained through diverse routes, so if your qualifications differ from those mentioned - we still encourage you to apply! Please highlight any relevant experience or skills in your application.

We welcome applications from volunteers across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. (Please note: this is a volunteer, unpaid position.)

Our volunteers say:

" The Action Tutoring team has been fabulous in their support: timely updates, always available, closely following progress, and ready to intervene where needed, very professional indeed!"

"Volunteering is very rewarding. I would say the skills that one develops from teaching the pupils are transferable to any walk of life and make you a better person. I would highly recommend it."

Video Editor (International Humanity Foundation)

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your interest in volunteering as a Video Editor for the International Humanity Foundation (IHF)! We are looking for talented and creative individuals to help us produce visually compelling content that highlights our mission to provide education to underprivileged children.

Role Requirements

As a Video Editor, you will:

Edit raw footage into polished and engaging videos.

Add graphics, animations, and subtitles to enhance video quality.

Collaborate with the podcast and media teams to create promotional materials.

Work on highlight reels and trailers to showcase IHF’s work and podcast content.

Ensure all videos align with IHF’s branding and storytelling goals.

Skills We Value

Proficiency in video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve).

Creative storytelling through visual media.

Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.

Experience in graphic design or animation is a plus.

A collaborative and flexible attitude.

Benefits of Volunteering with IHF

By joining our team, you will:

Gain valuable experience in video editing and storytelling for a global nonprofit.

Build your portfolio with impactful content.

Collaborate with a diverse, creative, and passionate team.

Contribute to a cause that empowers underprivileged children through education.

Receive a certificate of recognition and appreciation for your contributions.

About IHF

The International Humanity Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused on providing education to children in underserved communities. We believe in creating stories that inspire change and empower lives.

The Opportunity: Fund the Prevention of Burnout  we are developing a predictive wellbeing platform that uses AI and psychological science to predict employee burnout 2-4 weeks before it occurs. We equip managers and organisations with the real-time, data-driven interventions needed to prevent mental health crises, boost team engagement, and reduce costly turnover.

We are currently seeking an experienced volunteer to help us transition from a founder-funded model to a strategically-funded one. Your work will directly secure the capital needed to hire full-time developers and scale our pilots, fundamentally determining our ability to launch and serve the community.

What We Need You To Deliver (Scoped Project):

We are seeking expertise on the UK/EU funding landscape to deliver the following over 10-12 weeks:

1. Grant Strategy & Mapping (Weeks 1-4):

   • Map the UK/EU funding landscape for HealthTech, employee wellbeing, and social innovation.

   • Prioritize 5-7 realistic, high-value grant opportunities (e.g., Innovate UK, Wellcome Trust, or relevant foundations).

   • Advise on our ideal funding positioning (Social Enterprise vs. Charity) for UK funders.

2. Proposal Drafting (Weeks 5-12):

   • Collaborate with our team to draft and refine 1-2 major grant proposals based on the prioritized opportunities.

   • Draft compelling narratives that articulate our technology, scientific methodology, and measurable social impact (e.g., healthcare cost reduction, engagement gains).

What We Provide for Success:

• Dedicated Team: Work directly with the Founder and our Chief Behavioural Psychologist.

• Ready-Made Content: Full technical and impact documentation, including predictive modeling data and quantified ROI (e.g., proven 21-22% productivity gains from engagement).

• Clear Vision: A passionate, evidence-based team dedicated to moving beyond "wellness fluff" to real, preventative action.

Time Commitment & Compensation:

• Time Commitment: Flexible, estimated 6-8 hours per week for a 10-12 week project.

• Compensation: This is a pro bono position, but we offer a commitment to a success-based reward:

  • We are open to discussing a success fee (e.g., 5-10% of funds raised) or equity to be paid/granted once funding is successfully secured.

  • Exceptional performance will lead to a strong professional reference and priority consideration for a part-time paid Fundraising Lead role when funding allows.

Who We Are Looking For:

• 3+ years experience in successful grant writing for charities, social enterprises, or innovative startups.

• Strong knowledge of the UK/EU grant and foundation landscape (particularly for mental health, tech, or social impact).

• A proven track record of securing funding (please detail your successes in your application).

• A belief in the power of preventative technology to solve the employee burnout crisis.

To Apply: Please submit your CV and a brief note outlining your relevant track record and which UK funders you would prioritize first for a HealthTech/Wellbeing non-profit.

Finance Trustee (Treasurer) – fueling ADHD Aware's mission to support adults living with ADHD

ADHD Aware, a Brighton-based national charity, empowers adults with ADHD, their partners, and families through peer support groups, courses, neurodiversity training, and online resources – all run hands-on by volunteers like you. As our Finance Trustee, you'll safeguard our growth by keeping accounts current, ensuring governance excellence, and driving financial strategy in a small, agile board with no full-time staff – perfect for those ready to commit real hours to make a tangible impact.​

Why This Role Matters

In this voluntary Treasurer position, you'll oversee financial reporting, budgeting, compliance with Charity Commission rules, and risk management using tools like QuickBooks, directly fueling our vital ADHD support services. Your oversight ensures every pound advances our objects: peer-led groups, neurodiversity training for employers, and accessible online help that transforms lives affected by ADHD. Hands-on involvement means you'll keep our accounts up-to-date, liaise with stakeholders, and provide board guidance – a pivotal role in our volunteer-driven sustainability.​

We Champion Neurodivergence

ADHD Aware celebrates neurodivergence: we prioritise clear, structured language, flexible remote meetings via Teams/Zoom (with occasional in-person meetings in Brighton), and we are happy to chat about any accessibility needs before you apply. Expect transparent processes, no jargon overload, and understanding for variable focus – submit your CV and covering note detailing finance experience (ACA/ACCA/CIMA ideal, charity finance experience highly desirable) by 9 January 2026. We're seeking collaborative hands-on contributors who are committed to our mission and values.​

Time and Support

• Trustees serve a 3-year term (which can be renewed) and attend our AGM and 6 board meetings a year 

• Hands-on: maintain timely accounts, cash flow, audits, and forecasts amid growth.

• Remote-first, volunteer-led – your strategic input shapes our future.​

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• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds
• Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the chief executive (if the charity employs staff)

In addition to a charity Trustee’s statutory duties, the Finance Trustee (or Treasurer) plays a vital role in overseeing the financial affairs of the charity, ensuring its financial viability during a potential growth period, and making sure that proper financial records and procedures are maintained. The Treasurer provides strategic financial guidance to the board and ensures compliance with relevant financial legislation and best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Oversight and Reporting:

• Oversee the charity’s financial activities, ensuring they align with its mission and objectives.
• Provide regular financial reports to the board of trustees, highlighting key issues, trends, and risks. These include monthly management accounts and updated forecasts.
• Manage the cash flow of the charity by ensuring that receipts and payments are collected and paid in a timely manner.
• Monitor the financial performance and position of the charity, ensuring sustainability and sound management of resources

2. Budgeting and Strategic Planning:

• Lead the finance committee and provide regular updates.
• Manage the development of the annual budget in conjunction with the finance committee.
• Assist in the creation and review of the charity’s strategic plan, providing financial insights and risk assessments.
• Ensure that financial resources are aligned with the charity's strategic priorities.

3. Governance and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations, including the Charity Commission requirements and UK financial legislation.
• Ensure that proper accounting records are kept and that effective financial procedures and controls are in place.
• Liaise with external auditors, managing the annual audit process and ensuring timely submission of annual accounts and reports.

4. Risk Management:

• Identify and manage financial risks, providing the board with clear advice on risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the charity’s investments and reserves policy, ensuring prudent management of funds.

5. Supporting the Board:

• Act as the main point of contact for financial matters, providing guidance and support to fellow trustees.
• Work closely with other trustees to ensure that the board is fully informed of the charity’s financial status and has the necessary information to make sound decisions.
• Contribute to the board’s overall decision-making process, offering a financial perspective on strategic matters.

6. Stakeholder Engagement:

• Liaise with key stakeholders, including funders, regulatory bodies, trustees and volunteers on financial matters.
• Arrange regular meetings with staff on financial matters and give advice and guidance as appropriate.
• Provide input to fundraisers for fundraising tenders.
• Represent the charity in financial negotiations and discussions as required.

PERSON SPECIFICATION:

Qualifications:

• A recognised financial qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) is desirable.

Experience:

• Proven experience in financial management, preferably within the charity sector.
• Experience of charity finance, fundraising, and pension schemes is advantageous.
• Experience in strategic planning and risk management.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Strong financial analysis skills and the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly.
• Experience of Quickbooks or similar accounting software package.
• Knowledge of charity accounting principles and regulatory requirements.
• Understanding of financial governance and compliance in the charity sector.

Personal Qualities:

• Commitment to the charity's mission and values.
• Strong ethical standards and integrity.
• Collaborative and supportive approach, with the ability to challenge constructively.

TIME COMMITMENT

• Standard terms of Board Trustees are a period of three (3) years. Board members can usually be re-elected for a period of another three (3) years thereafter, for one (1) further term
• ADHD Aware Board Trustees will regularly attend Board meetings and/or send apologies with sufficient warning (no less than two days ahead of meeting)
• All Board members are also expected to respond within two (2) weeks to a request for review of information and comment by any other member of the Board
• If a Board member misses more than three (3) consecutive meetings, it may be appropriate to ask that Board member to resign or take a leave of absence
• Trustees will provide a minimum three (3) month notice period if they choose to step down LOCATION Please note: this role can be carried out largely remotely (via Teams or Zoom). Very occasionally, the Board may gather or take meetings at its main headquarters location in Brighton, East Sussex.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

At ADHD Aware, we are committed to ensuring that all of our activities are as accessible and as inclusive as possible. These include applying for and interviewing for roles. Whilst we understand that we can never be fully accessible as everybody's needs are different, we strive to be proactive with thinking about accessibility requirements. When applying for a role at ADHD Aware, if you would like to get in touch to talk about any access requirements, please contact us using the details below and we will arrange a date and time to have a conversation with you.

Education Volunteer Role Description 

Are you passionate about changing the way we treat animals? Do you want to help reduce environmental damage? Do you want to inspire people to enjoy healthy vegan food that both looks good and tastes great? 

The Vegan Society aims to make veganism more accessible. We help people to adopt a vegan lifestyle by supporting individuals, policy- and decision-makers, caterers, manufacturers, healthcare professionals and the media. 

Why do we need you? 

Laura Chepner is our Education Officer, and she is looking for a volunteer to support her in her role. Laura has a background in education, with a degree in Primary Education which preceded a decade of teaching and a short stint in the role of SENco (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). Shortly after that, Laura theorised vegan-inclusive teaching, published An Educator’s Guide for Vegan-Inclusive Teaching and worked as the UK’s first vegan-inclusion education specialist until joining The Vegan Society. 

At The Vegan Society, Laura supports vegan learners in education who have been discriminated against by acting as an intermediary between their families and the institution. Additionally, Laura supports educators by creating resources and delivering training sessions on what it means to be vegan-inclusive in their practice. Furthermore, Laura empowers parents/guardians to ask for vegan-inclusion by creating documents, with the help of The Education Network, that they can present and highlight their rights. 

What does this role involve? 

We support vegan learners and their families by offering practical resources, including tips for discussing veganism with schools, understanding legal protections and addressing concerns like catering and inclusivity. Our resources aim to help create an educational environment where vegan families feel respected and valued. This role will involve creating resources for families and educators. For example, template letters, guidance on legal protections, policy review requests, learning materials for children and much more.

What training and support is available? 

The ideal candidate for this role will have a background in Primary Education and be comfortable working independently. However, we are always willing to invite volunteers along to staff training when possible and to deliver training on specific skills in-house, as identified throughout the volunteering period. This role is remote, so support from the Education Officer will be available through email and phone calls as required. Monthly reviews with the Volunteering and Engagement Officer will also be conducted to ensure the volunteer is happy in their role. 

What skills would be useful in doing this role? 

• Qualified teacher

• Good written English

• Competent using Microsoft Office

• A strong understanding of the aims, campaigns and tone of voice of The Vegan Society 

• The ability to work independently. 

What does my availability need to be?  

This is an ongoing role and tasks will be requested by Laura on an ad hoc basis, volunteers can accept or decline each task. Volunteering can be done outside traditional working hours and in any time zone, although meetings and staff support will only be available between 9am and 5pm UK time. We ask volunteers to commit to a minimum of six months to make the best use of recruitment and induction time and to get the best out of their volunteering experience.

Who does this role report to?

Laura Chepner, Education Officer and Kaya Gromocki, Senior Volunteering and Engagement Officer.

Orchards is looking for a reliable and organised volunteer to support our vision to see more women free from sexual exploitation. This role offers hands-on experience in the VAWG sector and the chance to contribute to the smooth running of our supported accommodation services.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year and, in many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

We’re looking for a kind, patient, and confident volunteer to spend time with a lovely gentleman in his early 60s who lives in Crosby. His previous volunteer has recently retired, and he’d really appreciate some friendly company again.

He has profound and multiple learning disabilities, and while he communicates in his own way, he absolutely lights up around people he trusts. He enjoys good food, classic 80s TV shows, and the comfort of familiar faces. Your visit would be a gentle check-in — sharing a cuppa, a chat, and simply being present.

This is a Check in visit role, meaning that your visits are likely to be short - on average 30 minutes or less. Some of the people we visit may be unable to communicate with words. Sometimes the person might choose not to meet with their visitor. Your visit is however very important, and these are some of the things you could be doing on a visit: • Checking in on their well-being and speak to support staff to get an update on how the person is doing • You might be able to bring a treat that the person enjoys, like chocolates or fruit. • Some people we support enjoy sensory experiences so items that will stimulate their senses can also help you create a sense of connection with the person you visit. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions.

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

**About Mencap ** Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

We are looking for a patient and caring volunteer to visit a man in his 50s who lives in his own cottage within a larger care home outside of Denbigh. He does not communicate verbally but understands you as well as using some signs. He likes to have choice about what he does. He has many photos of activities that he's been up to and will happily show you them. He loves colouring and drawing and can spend hours doing it. He has lots of CD's and loves a comfy pair of pyjamas. He likes to go on long drives out and when encouraged to, will enjoy a long walk. You would either do activities together at home or go out with him and his support staff for a meal or for coffee.

This is a Stop and stay, let’s get busy visitor role which means the person you will be visiting can communicate actively with you and take part in choosing or planning activities. As you get to know each our you may choose to ‘go out’ either with or without support from the staff that supports the person you visit. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tends to be around an hour or longer, depending on what you do.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like: • Sitting and having a chat • Checking in on their well- being • Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink • Enjoying a walk • A craft activity at home • Reading a book/magazine together

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

**About Mencap ** Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

Would you like to help end food poverty and tackle climate change and CO2 emissions in Greater Manchester, whilst at the same time gaining valuable CV-enhancing experience and skills?

What we offer you

Induction, training and support from the staff of FareShare and its parent charity, EMERGE 3Rs.

Practical experience and transferable skills in warehousing and food redistribution.

A reference after 2 months with us.

An understanding of warehousing and logistics, and the importance of food surplus and recycling initiatives.

Expenses:
We reimburse travel expenses up to £6 for car drivers, and up to £5 for public transport costs.
Up to £3 is given towards the cost of lunch if a volunteer has special dietary requirements. (We provide lunch for our volunteers, so will contribute towards the cost of a volunteer's meal, should they bring their own, if what we are offering in the canteen isn't considered suitable; for example, a diet that's restricted for reasons of health, religion, or ethics).

As a sustainability charity, we take surplus food that's donated to us and redistribute it to people in need. The front line initiatives we support include food banks, schools, community groups and charities who, in turn, help people who are disadvantaged by poverty.

Our vital work supports people experiencing extreme hardship and prevents perfectly good food going to landfill, where it would otherwise contribute to climate warming. 

We need helping hands in our busy warehouse to receive and catalogue supplies, to load and unload vans, and to prepare orders for delivery. In return we offer training and support to help you obtain skills and experience to boost your CV if you are seeking work. If you're not looking for employment, volunteering with us is rewarding in many other ways; offering an opportunity to make friends, keep physically active and support your community.

This role is vital to the work of FareShare, ensuring that the food in our warehouse is correctly sorted, labelled and organised into orders placed by our charities and community groups.

It is perfect for someone who is:

a) Looking for a practical activity.

b) Looking for experience and skills to gain employment in the food industry, warehousing and customer service.

c) Wanting to help their community and/or help tackle global warming.

d) Wanting to make new friends.

e) Wanting to keep busy and/or physically fit.

Our volunteer opportunities are available Monday to Friday, for a whole or half day, with shifts between 8:30-am - 12:30pm and 12:30 - 4:30pm. Volunteers are typically involved for one day a week.

What will I be doing?

Receiving, sorting, cataloguing and storing chilled and ambient surplus food in a warehouse, and preparing orders for delivery. You may also be assisting customers when they pick up their orders.

Ensuring food quality and safety by checking ‘use by’ and ‘best before’ dates.

Sorting and unpacking deliveries, categorising and recording food.

Assembling food orders placed by charities and community groups.

Assisting our Community Food Members with their food order collections. 

Maintaining health and safety and food hygiene standards. 

Helping with cleaning and other tasks identified by warehouse staff.

Person Specification: 

Must be reasonably physically fit to carry out tasks, including lifting and loading.

Have a good command of English in order to understand and follow instructions and health and safety rules. 

Have basic literacy and numeracy skills to record quantities and types of food donated.

Able to work in a manner that respects Health and Safety standards.

Be happy to complete tasks independently according to instruction.

Be positive, friendly and enthusiastic about tackling food waste and food poverty.

Must be reliable and able to commit to an agreed session/day.

We are located in our brand new depot at Maynard House, New Smithfield Market, Openshaw, Manchester M11 2WJ.

​IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us.
This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles.
We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.

Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)