Volunteer volunteer roles in East of england

Our charity funds around £100 million of research each year into all heart and circulatory diseases and the things that cause them. Heart diseases. Stroke. Vascular dementia. Diabetes. They're all connected, and they're all under our microscope.  Our volunteers help us fund lifesaving science to improve the lives of families and loved ones living with heart and circulatory disease. Volunteering with us is easy, flexible, and inclusive. If you can spare a few hours a week, or a couple of hours occasionally, we’d love you to join our volunteer team. 

Could you be the friendly face of your local British Heart Foundation shop? With support around you and full training provided, you will be processing sales through the till as a volunteer cashier, talking to customers and thanking every donor - helping us continue to fund life saving research. This is a customer focussed role where you will meet and interact with a wide range of people.  

Just so you know, we are unable to accept volunteers aged under 17 or with unspent criminal convictions. Please note this is an unpaid voluntary position in a friendly charity shop.  

Typical tasks include:

• Engaging with customers and serving them in a helpful and friendly way
• Answering questions from customer, donors and supporters
• Communicating with fellow volunteers about what has sold and needs re-stocking
• Honing your retail and cashier skills behind the till and taking payments
• Helping with administration and reception duties around the till area
• Promoting Gift Aid and sales campaigns

Volunteering with British Heart Foundation comes with plenty of benefits too… 

• A 25% discount on donated goods and 10% discount on New Goods in our shops
• Unlimited, free, and confidential support by Retail Trust
• Access to training and development 
• Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed 
• Refreshments available  
• Volunteer certificates, references and long service awards provided
• Access to discounts with other retailers 

Our charity funds around £100 million of research each year into all heart and circulatory diseases and the things that cause them. Heart diseases. Stroke. Vascular dementia. Diabetes. They're all connected, and they're all under our microscope.  Our volunteers help us fund lifesaving science to improve the lives of families and loved ones living with heart and circulatory disease. Volunteering with us is easy, flexible, and inclusive. If you can spare a few hours a week, or a couple of hours occasionally, we’d love you to join our volunteer team. 

Our Sales Floor Volunteers are the first point of contact for customers when they enter our charity shop. You will be greeting customers, helping them find the items they’re looking for and answering their questions, with help on hand from the shop team. You will provide invaluable help in the running of the shop, keeping it stocked and attractively displayed. 

Just so you know, we are unable to accept volunteers aged under 17 or with unspent criminal convictions. Please note this is an unpaid voluntary position in a friendly charity shop. 

Typical tasks include: 

• Helping customers on the shop floor & providing good all-round customer service 
• Promoting our campaigns and any instore sales to customers 
• Working on window and shop displays to make them look their best
• Keeping the shop tidy, clean and well organised – some light housekeeping 
• Helping your fellow volunteers and staff with customer queries 

Volunteering with British Heart Foundation comes with plenty of benefits too… 

• A 25% discount on donated goods and 10% discount on New Goods in our shops
• Unlimited, free, and confidential support by Retail Trust
• Access to training and development 
• Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed 
• Refreshments available  
• Volunteer certificates, references and long service awards provided
• Access to discounts with other retailers 

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a trailblazing organisation dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. Rooted in a People First philosophy, we empower individuals and teams to drive systemic change through equitable learning and growth opportunities. Join us to shape a culture where lifelong learning and inclusive leadership thrive.

Role Overview

As the LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT Manager, you will lead the design and delivery of impactful learning programs that align with QuilomboUK’s mission and strategic goals. You’ll develop leadership curricula, create engaging instructional materials, oversee induction training, and continuously refine L&D initiatives based on feedback and data. This role is ideal for a creative, data-driven professional passionate about fostering inclusive leadership and equipping teams with the skills to advance social justice.

Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership Development & Training

• Design and implement leadership training curricula, workshops, and coaching programs that cultivate inclusive, equitable, and socially conscious leaders.
• Partner with senior leaders to identify skill gaps and align L&D strategies with organisational objectives.
• Facilitate dynamic workshops on topics like anti-bias leadership, conflict resolution, and change management.

Instructional Design & Content Development

• Create engaging, accessible learning materials, including e-learning modules, facilitator guides, videos, and assessments, using tools like Articulate 360 or Adobe Captivate.
• Embed D&I principles and social justice themes into all content, ensuring cultural relevance and representation.
• Develop microlearning resources and toolkits to support continuous, self-directed learning in a remote environment.

AI-Enhanced Instructional Design

• Using various platforms, create dynamic, AI-generated content (e.g., simulations, scenario-based learning), and adaptive e-learning modules.
• Build AI-driven assessments and feedback loops to measure knowledge retention and behavioural change.

Onboarding & Integration

• Lead the design and delivery of induction programs that immerse new hires in QuilomboUK’s mission, values, and D&I commitments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure onboarding content reflects role-specific and cultural integration needs.
• Monitor new hire feedback to refine onboarding experiences and reduce time-to-productivity.

Training Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Measure training effectiveness using KPIs such as engagement rates, knowledge retention, and behavioural change.
• Analyse feedback surveys, LMS data, and performance metrics to identify gaps and iterate on content.
• Stay ahead of L&D trends (e.g., gamification, AI-driven learning) to innovate QuilomboUK’s programs.

D&I Integration

• Ensure all learning initiatives prioritise equity, cultural competence, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Partner with ERG (Employee Resource Group) leaders to co-create programs that address systemic inequities.
• Advocate for accessible learning design, including accommodations for neurodiverse and disabled employees.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years in L&D, instructional design, or leadership development, ideally within mission-driven or D&I-focused organisations, with hands-on experience using AI tools.
• Skills:
• Expertise in e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate, Canva) and LMS platforms,.
• Strong facilitation and storytelling skills for remote and hybrid audiences.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI) to measure program impact.
• Proficiency in prompt engineering for generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) to create scalable content.
•  
• Knowledge:
• Deep understanding of adult learning theories, inclusive pedagogy, and social justice frameworks.
• Familiarity with UK compliance standards related to workplace training.
• Understanding of ethical AI frameworks, algorithmic bias mitigation, and GDPR-compliant AI use in HR.
• Familiarity with AI and how it can amplify (or hinder) equitable learning outcomes.
•  
• Alignment: Passionate about QuilomboUK’s mission and the role of L&D in driving equitable change.

Personal Attributes

• A visionary thinker who balances creativity with analytical rigor.
• Collaborative bridge-builder who engages stakeholders at all levels.
• Adaptive and empathetic, with a knack for simplifying complex concepts.
• Committed to lifelong learning and amplifying underrepresented voices.

Why Join QuilomboUK?

• Purpose: Design programs that directly contribute to equitable workplaces and social justice.
• Innovation: Experiment with cutting-edge L&D tools and methodologies in a remote-first environment.
• Culture: Join a team that values curiosity, courage, and collective growth.
• Flexibility: Enjoy remote work autonomy with supportive collaboration.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

Empower growth. Ignite change. #LearningForJustice #InclusiveLeadership #PeopleFirst

About Quilombo UK

Quilombo UK is a social justice organisation dedicated to inspiring individuals to "See, Think, Behave and Speak Differently" about equality, diversity, and inclusion. We create engaging experiences—ranging from our Beyond Bias training to our "Voices for All" podcasts—that raise awareness and empower unheard voices within our diverse communities.

By joining us, you will play a pivotal role in our Professional Development Programme (PDP), which supports career changers and newcomers to the UK in bridging employment gaps and tackling discrimination in the job market. We are currently working towards SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) certification to provide formal accreditation for the time our team members spend with us. This will allow participants to count their contribution as Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), a vital step for those qualifying via the SQE route. This is a unique opportunity to deliver tangible community impact while directly enhancing the employability and professional standing of legal professionals.

Head of Department (Legal)

The Opportunity

This position offers the opportunity for a career step-up, providing experience in managing legal teams and departmental operations within a social justice framework. In this Head of Department capacity, you will gain the leadership credentials and strategic oversight necessary to advance your professional trajectory while ensuring every individual we support is empowered to achieve their full potential.

Role Purpose

The Head of Department (Legal) oversees a team of dedicated legal professionals and graduates who operate in a capacity similar to paralegals. You will bridge the gap between Directors and the legal team, turning high-level objectives into actionable legal support plans while ensuring the highest standards of professional conduct and social justice advocacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight: Developing and managing the legal department’s roadmap to support Quilombo UK’s social justice initiatives.

• Team Supervision: Overseeing the work of legal graduates, many of whom are working towards their LLM (Master of Laws), ensuring their contributions are technically sound and ethically grounded.

• Departmental Leadership: Coaching the legal team to maintain 100% project visibility and ensuring all work meets the rigorous standards required for future SRA accreditation.

• Social Justice Advocacy: Managing caseloads and research projects that tackle systemic inequalities and discrimination within the community.

• Operational Control: Maintaining 100% visibility of all legal tasks via project management tools and providing weekly reports to Directors on risks, progress, and Work in Progress (WIP).

Additional Professional Benefits

• Career Development: A full CV and profile review conducted by our Talent Acquisition and Learning & Development teams.

• Operational Support: Access to the services of the Legal, Graphic Design, PR, and Production teams for up to 10 hours per month for professional or departmental support.

• Proactive Recruitment: Use of the Talent Acquisition team to actively search out new roles and opportunities via industry portals and LinkedIn.

Financial Incentives

• 15% Profit Share: A share of the commission for work carried out, divided among individuals at the HoD level for specific tasks.

• 10% Business Development: An additional commission if new work or clients are brought into the organisation independently by the HoD.

Requirements

• A strong legal background (GDL, or equivalent) with a deep commitment to social justice.

• Experience in a supervisory or management role, ideally overseeing paralegals or junior legal researchers.

• A clear understanding of the SRA regulatory framework and the requirements for Qualifying Work Experience (QWE).

• Excellent analytical, drafting, and communication skills.

• This is a 100% remote-only position.

Selection Process

• Informal interview.

• Requirement of two professional references

Job Title: Talent Enablement
Location: Remote
Department: People & Culture
Reports To: Manager: Talent Enablement

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a visionary organisation committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. Rooted in a People First philosophy, we strive to create workplaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. Join our People & Culture team to drive meaningful change through equitable HR practices and a culture of belonging.

Role Overview

As a Talent Enablement professional at QuilomboUK, you will support the planning, coordination, and delivery of training programmes that enhance employee skills and organisational development. You will help prepare training materials, assist with training sessions, track attendance and progress, and maintain accurate training records. Working closely with the Talent Enablement Manager and Team Leader, you will also manage shared inbox enquiries, contribute to team coordination, and provide reports on training activities, helping promote a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

 Talent Enablement - Specialist / Coordinator/ Assistant

• Prepare training materials for training sessions

• Tracks training attendance and progress

• Provide support in conducting training sessions

• Respond to the shared inbox emails appropriately.

• Send daily report to Team Leader/ Manager

Qualifications

• Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of UK employment law and ER best practices.

  • Ability to navigate sensitive conversations with empathy, discretion, and cultural competence.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for policy drafting and stakeholder guidance.

  • Proficiency in HRIS systems and case management tools.

• Knowledge: Understanding D&I frameworks, restorative justice principles, and trauma-informed HR practices.

• Alignment: Commitment to QuilomboUK’s mission and passion for social justice.

Personal Attributes

• Fair-minded and principled, with a strong ethical compass.

• Collaborative team player who builds trust with employees and leaders alike.

• Proactive problem-solver who balances empathy with organisational needs.

• Resilient under pressure, with the ability to manage multiple priorities calmly.

We’re looking for a dedicated legal professional to share their expertise on a pro bono basis and help strengthen Terrence Higgins Trust’s impact. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful, mission-driven work, providing trusted legal insight that supports good decision-making and enables us to serve our supporters with confidence.

If this sounds like you, join us! 

Please note, some select expenses are covered in this role which will be in line with our expenses policy. 

Volunteer Executive Assistant to the CEO

Organization: Bright Futures & Hillel Bright Futures Trust Community Hub
Location: Croydon, South London (Office-based)
Time Commitment: Main office days - Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday/Online the remaining days (Potential Job Share available)
Start Date: Immediate (Following successful interview and reference checks)
Benefits: Free hot lunch, travel expenses, free training, and EAP support

About Us

Bright Futures and the Hillel Bright Futures Trust are proud to be South London's leading SEND community hub. Based in Croydon, we offer a vital range of education, training, and well-being services. We mainly serve children aged 4 to 19 years, extending up to 25 years for individuals with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

We are deeply family-centred. We firmly believe that "a happy parent is a happy child." Because we champion equal opportunity and community support, over 90% of our services are delivered completely free of charge. This life-changing charitable work is only possible through the dedication of our incredible team and volunteers.

The Opportunity

Are you looking to use your professional skills to make a real social impact? We are seeking a highly organized, proactive Volunteer Executive Assistant (EA) to support our Chief Executive Officer.

This rewarding role offers the chance to gain high-level experience in the charity sector. You will act as a central pillar across our organization, directly contributing to our growth and community outreach.

What You Will Do: arrange of business admin duties - 

• CEO Support: Manage diaries, schedule meetings, and handle administrative workflows.
• Project Assistance: Coordinate tasks for community initiatives to support free service delivery.
• Human Resources: Assist with volunteer onboarding records and training schedules.
• Fundraising Support: Help track grant applications and coordinate local fundraising events.
• Communications & Social Media: Create content using Canva and manage our active social media profiles.

What We Are Looking For

Essential Skills:

• Tech Literacy: Mastery of the full Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Teams.
• Design Tools: Proficiency in Canva to create engaging social media and marketing graphics.
• Communication: Warm, professional written and verbal communication skills.
• Organisation: Excellent time management and the ability to manage diverse administrative tasks.

Desirable Criteria:

• Driving License: A clean, valid UK driving license is highly preferred.
• Background Checks: A current Enhanced DBS check is ideal, though we can arrange this for you.

Commitment & Flexibility

• We require a commitment on our core days: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Online days: Tuesday and Friday (will consider job share across 3 days)
• We welcome applications from individuals looking for a job-share volunteer arrangement to cover these days.

What We Offer You

• Free Hot Lunch: Provided daily at our hub.
• Travel Expenses: Full reimbursement of reasonable travel costs.
• Well-being Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (via Bright HR).
• Professional Development: Free targeted training where required to enhance your performance in the role.
• References: A high-quality reference upon successful completion of your placement.
• Environment: A friendly, supportive team environment making a genuine difference.

Learn Together CIC is looking for volunteer journalists to support Together Media, our media and public-interest storytelling project.

Volunteers may help research stories, prepare scripts, write articles, support interviews, fact-check information, and contribute ideas for content around news, politics, social issues, culture, and community stories.

This role is suitable for anyone interested in journalism, media, writing, research, public affairs, or digital storytelling. No professional experience is required, but strong communication, curiosity, reliability, and an interest in responsible reporting are important.

JOB TITLE: Charity Worker Volunteer.

JOB OVERVIEW

The Uganda Croydon Catholic Community (UCCC), based in Croydon, Surrey, United Kingdom, is seeking to recruit dedicated and enthusiastic Charity Workers to support the ministry and activities of the Church.

The successful candidates will have a passion for serving people of all ages and helping individuals and families integrate into the life of the Church. UCCC serves a diverse, multi-ethnic congregation, with a particular focus on members of the Ugandan community living in the United Kingdom.

This is a voluntary Charity Worker position. The Church will cover all reasonable expenses related to the role. The position requires a commitment of 30 hours per week, including weekend work.

PRIMARY ROLE

To work alongside the Lead Minister in supporting the Church's mission and vision by engaging with young people, families, and the wider congregation, helping to strengthen community participation and inclusion.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assisting with ushering duties during worship services and Church meetings.
• Helping to prepare Church premises before worship services and other Church activities.
• Assisting with setting up equipment, seating arrangements, and other practical requirements for Church events.
• Supporting the smooth running of Church services and community activities.
• Assisting with clearing and tidying Church premises following worship services and meetings.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

The successful candidate should demonstrate:

• Excellent communication and listening skills.
• Initiative, enthusiasm, and self-motivation.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities.
• Good interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• A willingness to support the mission and values of the Uganda Croydon Catholic Community.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Good spoken and written English language skills.
• Knowledge and understanding of Ugandan culture and traditions.
• Ability to communicate in a Ugandan language is highly desirable, as the majority of the community served by UCCC is of Ugandan heritage.
• A genuine interest in community and faith-based service.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested applicants should submit:

• A covering letter explaining why they wish to apply for the position.
• An up-to-date CV or résumé.
• Contact details for at least two referees.

Please quote reference number: UCCC/CW26 in all correspondence.

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants whose applications meet the requirements will be invited to an initial online interview.

Candidates who successfully complete the online interview will be invited to attend a face-to-face interview, unless they are applying from overseas.

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As a Shop Volunteer you’ll be joining a friendly, welcoming team of volunteers and staff who support each other and have a lot of fun along the way. We value every volunteer and the unique perspective, skills and energy you bring. 

Whether you’re sorting donations, creating beautiful displays, or chatting to customers, every task you take on helps to build a more inclusive world. 

We value volunteer development, and as part of this role your can develop your skills further by training to become a till user alongside your regular shop volunteer responsibilities, or progressing into a Key volunteer, a role which includes opening, running, and closing the shop in the absence of the manager.

No matter your reason for volunteering – whether it’s to meet new people, build new skills or support Sense’s cause – there’s a place for you in one of our shops. 

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer 

You’ll spend time doing a range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do.

Key responsibilities: Till volunteer

Being a till volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop volunteer, however, when you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

If you are interested in becoming a till volunteer straight away, please select ‘Till volunteer’, as well as ‘Shop volunteer’, when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Key responsibilities: Key volunteer 

Being a Key volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop and till volunteer. However, if you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

If you are interested in becoming a Key volunteer straight away, please select ‘Key volunteer’ when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 

Our values

Our values shape the way we behave and work alongside disabled people with complex needs to break down barriers. 

• We're creating change
• We're always learning
• We're better together

We are looking for up to ten UK university students to join our volunteer Student Ambassadors team and help Ygam achieve its social purpose by reaching out to students at university. This will be achieved by advising Ygam on the needs of students, supporting with content development, organising activities at your campus, and join us at events to raise awareness of gaming and gambling harms.

We are seeking individuals who are outgoing, with a confident personality. You will enjoy engaging with other students and be able to advise us on the experiences of students with regards to gaming and gambling. 

Volunteer at GDIF 2026! 

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival (GDIF) is London's leading festival of free outdoor theatre and performing arts. Each year, more than 100 volunteers help bring the festival to life, welcoming audiences, supporting events, and creating an unforgettable experience across South East London. 

The festival runs from 21 August - 6 September 2026. 

We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to play a vital role in delivering the festival. Whether you'd like to be a friendly face for audiences, take on a Team Leader role supporting fellow volunteers, or support our access team to help make the festival welcoming and accessible for everyone, there are a range of opportunities to get involved. 

As a GDIF volunteer, you will: 

• Connect with local communities and meet new people across South East London. 
• Develop valuable communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills. 
• Work alongside like-minded people with a passion for arts, culture and live events. 
• Gain hands-on experience in festival and event delivery. 
• Build your confidence and enhance your CV with practical experience. 
• Be part of one of London's most exciting arts festivals. 

Join us and help create extraordinary experiences for thousands of audience members this summer. 

We're looking for people who are: 

• Aged 18 or over. 
• Friendly, reliable and passionate about the arts. 
• Able to commit at least 15 hours to the festival, including training and a minimum of three shifts. 
• Keen to get involved, meet new people and help create a fantastic experience for audiences. 
• Team Leader and Access Team Leader roles require some previous leadership experience. 

Volunteer Roles

Festival Volunteer 
Support the day-to-day running of the festival by welcoming audiences, sharing information, assisting with engagement activities, collecting feedback and donations, and helping create a positive, inclusive atmosphere. 

Team Leader 
Support a small team of volunteers onsite, acting as the main point of contact between volunteers and the Volunteer Coordinator. Ideal for experienced leaders who are confident taking on additional responsibility. 

Access Champion 
Access Champions are volunteers who work with the access team to support audiences with access requirements to enjoy the festival. 

Access Team Leader 
Lead a team of Access Champions at events, providing support and guidance while acting as a key link between volunteers and GDIF's Access Managers to help deliver an accessible and inclusive festival experience. 

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As a Shop Volunteer you’ll be joining a friendly, welcoming team of volunteers and staff who support each other and have a lot of fun along the way. We value every volunteer and the unique perspective, skills and energy you bring. 

Whether you’re sorting donations, creating beautiful displays, or chatting to customers, every task you take on helps to build a more inclusive world. 

We value volunteer development, and as part of this role your can develop your skills further by training to become a till user alongside your regular shop volunteer responsibilities, or progressing into a Key volunteer, a role which includes opening, running, and closing the shop in the absence of the manager.

No matter your reason for volunteering – whether it’s to meet new people, build new skills or support Sense’s cause – there’s a place for you in one of our shops. 

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer 

You’ll spend time doing a range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do.

Key responsibilities: Till volunteer

Being a till volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop volunteer, however, when you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

If you are interested in becoming a till volunteer straight away, please select ‘Till volunteer’, as well as ‘Shop volunteer’, when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Key responsibilities: Key volunteer 

Being a Key volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop and till volunteer. However, if you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

If you are interested in becoming a Key volunteer straight away, please select ‘Key volunteer’ when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 

Our values

Our values shape the way we behave and work alongside disabled people with complex needs to break down barriers. 

• We're creating change
• We're always learning
• We're better together

Do you have professional experience in coding and computing? Could you support young people in learning how to code? 

Are you passionate about equipping the next generation with the skills and strategies needed to succeed?

About us: GT Scholars is a social enterprise that tackles educational inequality by giving ambitious young people the support, skills and strategies they need to achieve their aspirations. 

We believe that all young people are gifted and talented, regardless of their background. We run a wide range of programmes that help young people achieve their academic and career aspirations, particularly those from less-privileged backgrounds.

What makes us different? There are many organisations that offer programmes to improve the life chances of young people. However, our programmes use a unique 3:1 model which means that we’re able to sustainably use our profits to provide additional places on our programmes, to young people from low-income homes. 

Our mission is to empower and develop the next generation of leaders and change-makers and we’re looking for workshop facilitators that are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives!

Responsibilities: Facilitators are responsible for designing creative and interactive workshops for our young people, and delivering these workshops with our young people. We run some of our workshops online and other workshops are held in London. All workshops are held during the school holidays, in the evening and on weekends.

The workshop facilitator role is flexible and as part of your role, you may be involved in:

• Delivering and leading short workshops or courses, on behalf of GT Scholars (Online or offline)

• Designing engaging, interactive and educational workshops and short courses for young people and ensuring that the content is targeted to suit different abilities and capabilities

• Running your own bespoke workshops, eg. workshops in coding and technology

• Managing short activities and Q&A sessions during our workshops

• Working collaboratively with other event coordinators, volunteers, ambassadors, workshop facilitators and speakers at our events

• Following the agreed timings and content for workshops and courses

Person specification: 

As workshop facilitator, you will need to:

• Have passion, knowledge and experience in coding, computing and technology

• Have strong presentation skills

• Have strong communication skills

• Be personable and able to confidently communicate with people from a range of backgrounds and professions.

• Be passionate and committed to tackling educational inequality

• Be punctual and organised

Availability: Workshops will run during the day on school holiday dates, on Saturdays or in the evening (5pm-8pm).

Additional information: We will need to conduct reference checks and you will need an Enhanced DBS for this role as you will be working directly with children. We can process this for you or you may submit one if this is less than 2 years old.

Rate of pay: This is a self-employed role. You must be aged 18 or above. Facilitator sessions range from 2 to 6 hours. The rate of pay will vary based on the budget of the funder.