Volunteer roles

Trustees – Education & Music Charity

Are you a senior education or finance professional looking to give back to the sector?

Services For Education is a well‑established education charity working with hundreds of schools to deliver music education, school improvement services and professional development. We are seeking new Trustees to join our Board.

What the role involves

Trustees play a vital role in:

• Setting and overseeing strategic direction
• Providing constructive challenge and support to senior leaders
• Ensuring strong governance, safeguarding impact and sustainability

The role focuses on strategy and assurance, not operational management.

Who we’re looking for

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals with:

• Primary or secondary headship, or senior leadership in a Multi‑Academy Trust
• Financial leadership or accountancy expertise

If your experience is in a different area, but think we would benefit from your perspective, then you are warmly welcomed to apply.

You do not need previous trustee experience – strong professional judgement, curiosity and a commitment to education are what matter most. We are particularly keen to hear from candidates who will bring diverse perspectives and lived experience to our Board.

Time commitment

• Approx. 6 virtual Board meetings per year
• Optional committee membership
• One annual in‑person twilight session

Please visit our Careers page for full details and downloadable Trustee briefing pack.

About the Role 

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. We aim to increase inclusion and representation for the disabled community across society. We have several different services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails and more. 

As we continue to grow, we are on a mission to make finding and accessing information around everything to do with disability easier. Hence, we're putting together a brand-new team of volunteers who are passionate about content and using the power of social media for good

Who Are We Looking For?

·Someone who is passionate about our mission of inclusion, representation, and belonging.

·Having social media skills is helpful, but enthusiasm for creating and editing content, building online communities, and supporting our digital presence is essential.

·You should enjoy research, taking on challenges, and bringing a creative mindset to your work.

·Be willing to learn or have knowledge of editing and posting videos.

·Be able to support our online initiatives while collaborating with our team.

What Do We Expect?

·Must be willing to undertake our training programme, which will be completed virtually at a time that suits you.

·Have a DBS check (preferably be on the update service) or be willing to complete one with us.

·Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it, please discuss it with us; we’re happy to make small changes where appropriate.)

·Have a positive attitude toward disability and illness.

Benefits of Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C 

·Make a difference in your community. 

·Have a positive impact on people’s lives. 

· Develop your current skills and gain new ones. 

· Demonstrate your commitment and reliability to future employers. 

· Show your ability to balance and manage your time effectively. 

· Build your confidence. 

· Explore new areas of interest by taking on additional tasks if you wish. 

LONELINESS AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS MANAGER (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

SUNSHINE Charity – Because No One Should Live in Lockdown Forever

Do you remember lockdown?

1. The quiet.
2. The worry.
3. The long days without seeing anyone.
4. The ache of missing connection.

Now imagine living like that every single day — not because of a global crisis, but because loneliness has quietly become someone’s normal.

Since lockdown ended, loneliness has slipped out of the headlines. But it hasn’t slipped out of people’s lives.

At SUNSHINE, we refuse to let loneliness be forgotten. We’re here to bring it back into the spotlight — and we need someone bold, creative and passionate to help us do it.

Who We Are

SUNSHINE is a brand‑new, grassroots, 100% volunteer‑powered charity on a mission to brighten the lives of people experiencing loneliness and social isolation. We’re small, passionate, and building something hopeful from the ground up. We’re awaiting our charity number — but our mission is already alive, growing and ready to shine.

Now we need someone who can help the world understand why loneliness matters — and what SUNSHINE is doing to change it.

Your Role: Loneliness Awareness Campaigns Manager

This is your chance to lead campaigns that spark conversations, shift perceptions and bring loneliness back into the public eye.

You will be the person who helps people see loneliness again — and see SUNSHINE as a beacon of hope.

You will:

• Create and lead awareness campaigns that highlight the reality of loneliness today

• Develop messaging that is emotional, human and impossible to ignore

• Work with our Marketing & Communications team to amplify our voice

• Raise awareness of SUNSHINE’s services, helping people find support

• Engage communities, partners and local groups to spread the message

• Use storytelling, social media and creative content to make loneliness visible

• Help shape national and local conversations around loneliness

• Ensure loneliness stays on the agenda, not forgotten after Covid

Your work will help people understand that loneliness is still here — and that SUNSHINE is here to help.

Who You Are

• You’re someone who cares deeply about people and community.
• You’re creative, passionate and not afraid to speak up for those who feel invisible.
• You understand how powerful awareness can be in changing lives.
• Maybe you’ve worked in campaigns, communications, advocacy, marketing or community engagement.
• Maybe you’ve led awareness projects before.
• Maybe you’re simply someone with a strong voice and a big heart.

What matters most is your drive, your imagination, and your belief that loneliness should never be ignored.

Why Join Us Now?

Because this is the moment everything begins.

You won’t just be joining a charity — you’ll be helping to shape its voice. Your campaigns will spark conversations. Your creativity will shift perceptions. Your work will help people feel seen, valued and connected again.

If you want to be part of something hopeful, human and life‑changing, this is your moment.

How to Apply

Send us your CV and a short statement about why this role speaks to you.

We welcome people from all backgrounds, experiences and walks of life.

Let’s make loneliness impossible to ignore — together.

ADMIN MANAGER & COMPANY SECRETARY (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

SUNSHINE Charity – Because No One Should Live in Lockdown Forever

Do you remember lockdown?

1. The stillness.
2. The uncertainty.
3. The feeling of being cut off from the world.
4. The long days where connection felt far away.

Now imagine living like that every single day — not because of a pandemic, but because loneliness has quietly become someone’s whole life.

At SUNSHINE, we refuse to let that be anyone’s reality. Not in London. Not in our communities. Not while we’re here.

We’re here to bring back joy, connection and human warmth — and we need someone organised, steady and compassionate to help keep our young charity running smoothly behind the scenes.

Who We Are

SUNSHINE is a brand‑new, grassroots, 100% volunteer‑powered charity on a mission to brighten the lives of people experiencing loneliness and social isolation. We’re small, passionate, and building something hopeful from the ground up. We’re awaiting our charity number — but our mission is already alive, growing and ready to shine.

Now we need someone who can help us stay organised, compliant and confident as we grow.

Your Role: Admin Manager & Company Secretary

This is a vital role at the heart of our charity’s operations.

You will be the person who keeps us organised, compliant and functioning — the calm, reliable presence who ensures SUNSHINE runs smoothly as we build our services, our team and our impact.

You will:

• Manage our core administration, ensuring documents, records and processes are kept up to date

• Support the Board and CEO, helping prepare agendas, minutes and paperwork

• Ensure good governance, keeping us aligned with legal and regulatory requirements

• Maintain key policies, updating them as we grow

• Oversee filing systems, digital organisation and internal communications

• Support volunteer onboarding admin, helping us stay structured and efficient

• Be the organisational backbone, helping SUNSHINE stay steady, safe and well‑run

Your work will help us build a charity that people can trust — one that is safe, organised and ready to support those who need us most.

Who You Are

• You’re someone who loves order, clarity and good organisation.
• You’re reliable, detail‑focused and calm under pressure.
• You care deeply about people and want to use your skills to make a real difference.
• Maybe you’ve worked in admin, office management, governance, compliance or PA roles.
• Maybe you’ve supported Boards or senior leaders before.
• Maybe you’re simply brilliant at keeping things running smoothly.

What matters most is your heart, your steadiness, and your belief that loneliness should never be a life sentence.

Why Join Us Now?

Because this is the moment everything begins.

You won’t just be joining a charity — you’ll be helping to build it. Your organisation will shape our foundations. Your attention to detail will shape our safety. Your presence will help us bring sunshine into lives that have been dark for far too long.

If you want to be part of something hopeful, human and life‑changing, this is your moment.

How to Apply

Send us your CV and a short statement about why this role speaks to you.

We welcome people from all backgrounds, experiences and walks of life.

Let’s build a charity full of sunshine — together.

VICE CHAIR / CO‑CHAIR OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

SUNSHINE Charity – Because No One Should Live in Lockdown Forever

Do you remember lockdown?

1. The silence.
2. The uncertainty.
3. The ache of missing people.
4. The feeling of being cut off from the world.

Now imagine living like that every single day — not because of a pandemic, but because loneliness has quietly become someone’s whole life.

At SUNSHINE, we refuse to let that be anyone’s reality. Not in London. Not in our communities. Not while we’re here.

We’re here to bring back joy, connection and human warmth — and we need a compassionate, steady, visionary leader to help guide us at the highest level.

Who We Are

SUNSHINE is a brand‑new, grassroots, 100% volunteer‑powered charity on a mission to brighten the lives of people experiencing loneliness and social isolation. We’re small, passionate, and building something hopeful from the ground up. We’re awaiting our charity number — but our mission is already alive, growing and ready to shine.

Now we need someone who can help steer us with wisdom, integrity and heart.

Your Role: Vice Chair / Co‑Chair of the Board

This is a rare opportunity to help shape the governance, direction and future of a charity from its earliest days.

As Vice Chair / Co‑Chair, you will be the right hand to our Chair and a key partner to our Founder & CEO. You will help ensure SUNSHINE is well‑governed, well‑led and always guided by compassion, purpose and good practice.

You will:

• Support and deputise for the Chair, helping lead the Board with clarity and confidence

• Provide strategic oversight, ensuring SUNSHINE grows safely, ethically and sustainably

• Champion good governance, safeguarding the charity’s mission, values and beneficiaries

• Support the CEO, offering guidance, challenge and encouragement as we build our foundations

• Help shape long‑term strategy, ensuring our services, culture and impact stay true to our purpose

• Be a visible leader, representing SUNSHINE with warmth, professionalism and heart

• Foster a positive, inclusive Board culture, where collaboration and kindness are central

Your leadership will help ensure SUNSHINE becomes a trusted, respected and impactful charity that people feel safe turning to.

Who You Are

• You’re someone who leads with both head and heart.
• You understand governance, responsibility and accountability — but you also understand people, community and compassion.
• Maybe you’ve been a trustee before.
• Maybe you’ve chaired meetings, led teams or guided organisations through growth.
• Maybe you’ve worked in charity, public service, community leadership or strategic roles.

What matters most is your integrity, your steadiness, your belief in our mission — and your desire to help build something meaningful from the ground up.

Why Join Us Now?

Because this is the moment everything begins.

You won’t just be joining a Board — you’ll be helping to shape it. Your leadership will influence our culture. Your decisions will guide our future. Your presence will help us bring sunshine into lives that have been dark for far too long.

If you want to be part of something hopeful, human and life‑changing, this is your moment.

How to Apply

Send us your CV and a short statement about why this role speaks to you.

We welcome people from all backgrounds, experiences and walks of life.

Let’s build a charity full of sunshine — together.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

SUNSHINE Charity – Because No One Should Live in Lockdown Forever

Do you remember lockdown?

1. The stillness.
2. The worry.
3. The long days without connection.
4. The feeling of being cut off from the world.

Now imagine living like that every single day — not because of a global crisis, but because loneliness has quietly become someone’s reality.

At SUNSHINE, we refuse to let that be anyone’s everyday life. Not in London. Not in our communities. Not while we’re here.

We’re here to bring back joy, connection and human warmth — and we need a steady, strategic, compassionate leader to help us build the charity that will make that possible.

Who We Are

SUNSHINE is a brand‑new, grassroots, 100% volunteer‑powered charity on a mission to brighten the lives of people experiencing loneliness and social isolation. We’re small, passionate, and building something hopeful from the ground up. We’re awaiting our charity number — but our purpose is already alive and growing.

Now we need someone who can help us turn that purpose into a strong, sustainable, well‑run organisation.

Your Role: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

This is not just a role — it’s a partnership.

As our COO, you will be the No. 2 in the charity, working closely with our Founder & CEO to shape, manage and grow SUNSHINE during its most exciting and fragile early stages.

You will help transform a hopeful idea into a fully functioning, impactful charity.

You will:

• Support the CEO in the day‑to‑day running and strategic development of the charity

• Oversee operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly, safely and with heart

• Help build our internal structures, systems and processes from scratch

• Support the Heads of Departments (Volunteering, Services, Marketing, etc.) to deliver their work effectively

• Ensure good governance, compliance and best practice as we grow

• Champion a positive, caring, sunshine‑filled organisational culture

• Be a key decision‑maker, helping guide the charity through its early growth

• Bring stability, clarity and leadership to a fast‑moving, hopeful start‑up environment

Your leadership will help us become a charity that people trust, love and feel safe turning to.

Who You Are

• You’re someone who thrives in building things — systems, teams, structures, solutions.
• You’re calm, organised, strategic and people‑centred.
• You care deeply about community, connection and doing things the right way.
• Maybe you’ve worked in operations, leadership, governance, project management, charity management or organisational development.
• Maybe you’ve been a No. 2 before — or maybe you’re ready to step into that space for the first time.

What matters most is your heart, your integrity, your steadiness, and your belief that loneliness should never be a life sentence.

Why Join Us Now?

Because this is the moment everything begins.

You won’t just be joining a charity — you’ll be helping to build it. Your leadership will shape our foundations. Your decisions will shape our future. Your presence will help us bring sunshine into lives that have been dark for far too long.

If you want to be part of something hopeful, human and life‑changing, this is your moment.

How to Apply

Send us your CV and a short statement about why this role speaks to you.

We welcome people from all backgrounds, experiences and walks of life.

Let’s build a charity full of sunshine — together.

HEAD OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

SUNSHINE Charity – Because No One Should Live in Lockdown Forever

Do you remember lockdown?

1. The silence.
2. The uncertainty.
3. The feeling of being cut off from the world.
4. The ache of missing people, connection, life.

Now imagine living like that every single day — not because of a pandemic, but because loneliness has quietly become someone’s normal.

At SUNSHINE, we refuse to let that be anyone’s story. Not in London. Not in our communities. Not while we’re here.

We’re here to bring back warmth, connection and joy — and we need someone extraordinary to help us tell that story to the world.

Who We Are

SUNSHINE is a brand‑new, grassroots, 100% volunteer‑powered charity on a mission to brighten the lives of people experiencing loneliness and social isolation. We’re small, passionate, and building something hopeful from the ground up. We’re awaiting our charity number — but our mission is already alive, growing and ready to shine.

Now we need someone who can help the world see us.

Your Role: Head of Marketing & Communications

This is your chance to shape the voice, identity and public presence of a charity from day one.

We need a creative, strategic, heart‑led communicator who can:

• Raise awareness of SUNSHINE across London and beyond

• Build our brand identity and ensure our message is warm, human and unforgettable

• Attract service users who need us

• Inspire volunteers who want to join us

• Engage supporters, funders and donors who believe in our mission

• Lead our digital presence, including social media, website content and storytelling

• Create campaigns that cut through the noise and make people feel something

• Champion our values in every message, every post, every piece of communication

You’ll be the one who helps SUNSHINE be seen, heard and felt.

Your work will help someone discover a lifeline. Your words will help someone feel less alone. Your storytelling will help us grow into the charity we’re meant to be.

Who You Are

• You’re someone who understands the power of a story.
• You know how to make people stop scrolling, stop thinking, and start feeling.
• You’re creative, strategic, and excited by the idea of building a brand from scratch.
• Maybe you’ve worked in marketing, communications, PR, digital media, branding or content creation.
• Maybe you’ve led campaigns or built communities online.
• Maybe you’ve helped organisations grow their visibility and voice.

What matters most is your passion, your imagination, and your belief that connection can change lives.

Why Join Us Now?

Because this is the moment everything begins.

You won’t just be promoting a charity — you’ll be helping to build it. Your ideas will shape our identity. Your creativity will shape our reach. Your voice will shape our future.

If you want to be part of something hopeful, human and life‑changing, this is your moment.

How to Apply

Send us your CV and a short statement about why this role speaks to you.

We welcome people from all backgrounds, experiences and walks of life.

Let’s make SUNSHINE impossible to ignore — together.

Join the pack. Lend a hand. Change lives. Join your local fundraising group as a volunteer.

Are you looking for a volunteering opportunity where you can meet new people and raise funds that will change lives?  Join a Guide Dogs group near you for fun, fundraising and four-legged friends.

Did you know it costs £102,000 to raise, train, and support a guide dog from birth to retirement.

We have a range of roles from being a group member, to taking on a lead role such as Group Coordinator, Deputy Coordinator, Treasurer, Merchandise Coordinator or Collection Box Coordinator.

Why become a fundraising volunteer:

As well as making a huge difference to people’s lives, volunteering with your local Guide Dogs fundraising group is a great way to spend some of your free time and give back.

• Inspire people to support Guide Dogs and make a difference to someone with sight loss.
• Have fun finding new events and places to volunteer at.
• You’ll meet lots of special dogs – from young puppies in training to incredible guide dogs in partnership.
• You’ll empower others to get involved with Guide Dogs.
• You’ll learn new skills and we’ll provide all the training you need for your role.
• You can take on as much or as little as you want, and you can fit the role around your other commitments.

Who you are:

We appreciate our volunteers’ passion and energy, but we also value your unique skills, perspectives and personalities.

• Inspire others: Do you have lots of ideas that could motivate others? We need more inspirational volunteer leaders and fundraisers who can bring their energy and unique perspective to our local fundraising groups.

• Bring your skills: Could you help organise a calendar of events, take care of ordering merchandise, or count the funds raised by your local team? We need more volunteer treasurers, secretaries, and merchandise coordinators to support our fundraising groups.

• Help take Guide Dogs into your community: Are you well connected or do you love going to new places and meeting new people? We need more volunteer fundraisers to help at our events and spread the word about our work.

Training and pre-agreed expenses available.

Visit our webiste to see what roles are available where you live. 

Are you a dog lover with room in your home to look after a dog during evenings and weekends? This could be the perfect role for you!

As a Training Dog Fosterer, you’ll provide a loving temporary home to a dog in training, typically for a period of 12 to 20 weeks, as they begin their journey to become a guide dog. You’ll get to see the progress your furry companion is making in their training and be a vital part of their journey, without the commitment of looking after a dog full time.

What you’ll be doing:

In this rewarding role, your support for a guide dog in training will include:

• Doing the school run for your dog in training! This will typically involve dropping them off and picking them up at an agreed time Monday to Friday at one of our regional centres or community teams, however, some sites may vary. There are some locations where we will be able to collect and return the training dog from your home. 
• Caring for your dog in your home such as feeding, grooming, free running and playing, following the advice of our expert staff.
• Helping your dog keep up with their training by reinforcing the techniques at home from our first-class training programme.
• Making sure your dog is not left alone for more than four hours in a 24-hour period. If you’re planning on going on holiday, let us know at your initial phone call so we can plan alternative cover for your future life changer.

Can I foster a dog?

If you’re hoping to foster a guide dog in training, here’s what we ideally look for:

• Being close to one of our regional centres or community teams so that your dog can get to their training. 
• The agreement of your landlord to have a dog in your home if you rent your home.
• A safe and secure area outside for the dog to go to the toilet.

However, we try to be flexible – for example, you’ll still be able to foster a dog if you live in London, even if you don’t have access to outside space. 

What you’ll get:

• The opportunity to have a lovable canine companion!
• The satisfaction in knowing you’re supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well.
• The rewarding feeling of seeing your dog learn new training techniques to help them develop into a guide dog.
• An insight into our bespoke world-class training programme so that your dog’s training stays consistent at home, which can also help you train your own dogs or advance in a future career in dog handling.
• The opportunity to be part of the Guide Dogs community, meeting like-minded people in your area.
• A dedicated volunteer manager and fellow peers who will help support you throughout your role.

Training and support

You’ll attend a training workshop to understand the basics of our bespoke training techniques so you can confidently support your dog’s training at home. You’ll also receive ongoing guidance from your volunteer manager. If you have questions about the training requirements, we can answer these at your initial phone call along with any other support or accessibility needs you may have.

Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any pre-agreed expenses related to volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, dog food costs and other materials needed for your dog’s training.

Minimum age for volunteer is 18.

We also have a respite fosterer role available in some areas, where a dog would stay with you full time before moving on to the next stage of its journey.

Please check out our website to see what roles are available where you live.

If you have space in your home and heart, for a guide dog mum who will be bringing the next generation of guide dogs in the world, then this could be the role for you! A role where you can care and nurture for a guide dog mum and plenty of little puppies when they arrive. 

This role is available in areas of Berkshire, South Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire.

What you’ll be doing: 

• Providing a loving home for a guide dog mum who will be at least 12 months old, for around six years whilst they are in the breeding programme (with the option to re-home after this, once the guide dog mum retires at around 7 years-old.) 
• Giving a guide dog mum the care and support that our canine companions need, like feeding and grooming.
• Creating a safe environment for the guide dog mum when they are giving birth within your home and helping with the birth of future guide dogs, which usually happens once a year. (You don’t need any previous experience of breeding or having dogs – we have expert staff who will help you!) 
• Providing care and support for the newborn puppies for at least 6 weeks while they are still in the nest, including socialising them to the new sounds and first-time experiences in your home.

Can I care for a guide dog mum? 

If you want to care for a guide dog mum, here's what we ideally look for:

• A loving home with a secure garden.
• Access to a car, to support with any appointments needed for the guide dog mum.
• Live within an hour’s drive of the National Centre in Leamington Spa.

Guide dog mums can happily live with other dogs or children, however we wouldn’t place them with a male dog that has not been neutered. To determine whether you are suitable, we will conduct a home visit as part of the application process. 

What you’ll get:

• The opportunity to have a lovable canine companion!
• The satisfaction of knowing you’re supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well.
• The rewarding experience of bringing the next generation of guide dogs in the world and caring for their mum.
• Our volunteers have access to our bespoke training techniques to implement with their guide dog mum a great bonus for any dog owners! 
• The opportunity to be part of the Guide Dogs community, meeting like-minded people in your area.
• A dedicated volunteer manager and fellow peers who will help support you throughout your role.

Training and support

Our volunteers also receive lots of support from their volunteer managers to help them implement the training modules, as well as managing the birth of new-born puppies. If you have questions about the training requirements, we can answer these at your interview along with any other support or accessibility needs you may have.

Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any pre-agreed expenses related to the litter or your volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, food costs or any specialist breeding equipment.  All you may need to buy is a bed and grooming equipment.

Minimum age of volunteer: 18.

To find out if this role is available in your area, please click 'Redirect to recruiter' at the top of the page, and use the postcode search function on the Guide Dogs website to explore local opportunities. 

Are you a dog lover? Do you have the time to help raise a life-changing puppy? Would you like to make a difference to someone's life? If you've answered yes to these questions, then this role could be perfect for you! 

As a Puppy Raiser, you'll provide a 6-8 week-old puppy with the vital foundation for its future role as a guide dog. You'll be looking after a puppy for 12-16 months and will guide him or her through training, socialisation, the introduction of new environments and experiences while providing a loving home.

There might be the odd chewed slipper along the way, but nothing beats the rewarding feeling of loving and raising a puppy who will go on to make an enormous difference to someone living with sight loss.

What you'll be doing:

• Engaging with our world-class training programme to prepare your puppy for the next stages of becoming a guide dog.
• Providing care and support for your puppy at home e.g., loving, grooming and feeding him or her. 
• Socialising your puppy and introducing him or her to a variety of environments to increase confidence – this can be as simple as taking your puppy with you to the shops, office or park as you go about your everyday life.
• Teaching your puppy to be comfortable alone - gradually building up from a few minutes to a maximum of four hours.
• Taking your puppy to monthly puppy classes, and interacting with other puppy raisers in your community whilst refreshing your training and sharing tips.
• Meeting with your volunteer manager as frequently as needed to discuss any changes or issues with your puppy.
• Completing short questionnaires about your puppy’s development.

You'll ideally have:

• A loving home with enough time to invest in raising a puppy and attending to their needs (e.g. toilet training). If you work from home or have hobbies, you'll need to be available to give the puppy regular attention alongside these.
• Someone at home who is physically able to handle large breed dogs (around 25-40kg).
• Access to a car, so that you can get your puppy used to travelling.
• The agreement of your landlord to have a dog in the property if you rent your home. 
• A safe secure area outside for your puppy to go to the toilet.

What you'll get:

• The satisfaction of knowing you're supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well.
• The rewarding feeling of watching a mischievous puppy learn new training techniques to help them develop into a guide dog.
• The opportunity to participate in our bespoke world-class training programme – this can help you train your own dogs or advance a future career in dog handling.
• The opportunity to have a loveable, canine companion, proven to reduce feelings of stress and improve fitness – you’ll be out walking rain or shine!
• The chance to be part of the inspirational Guide Dogs community, meeting like-minded people and interacting with a community of puppy raisers in your area.
• A dedicated volunteer manager and fellow peers who will help support you throughout your role.

s a volunteer you'll have access to our world-class training programme, to implement with your puppy in training, a great bonus for any dog owner! This is delivered in an interactive and engaging manner, using a mixture of different learning techniques virtually e.g., videos, documents and e-learning modules. Examples of the modules you'll have access to include:

• Food manners
• Greeting new visitors
• Being home alone
• Settling in new environments

You'll receive plenty of support from your volunteer manager who will help you work through these training modules with your puppy. We also offer puppy classes for puppy raisers in the local area to get together, share stories and provide refreshers on training techniques. 

Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any pre-agreed expenses related to volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, food costs for the puppy and other materials needed for the puppy’s training. We will also pay an optional allowance of up to £100 a year to offset additional costs, and we have working agreements with certain bus and train operating companies, letting you take your puppy on short training journeys free of charge.

Minimum age of applicant: 18.

To find out if this role is available in your area, please click 'Redirect to recruiter' at the top of the page, and use the postcode search function on the Guide Dogs website to explore local opportunities. 

HEAD OF SUNSHINE SERVICES (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

SUNSHINE Charity – Because No One Should Live in Lockdown Forever

Do you remember lockdown?

1. The quiet.
2. The worry.
3. The long days without connection.
4. The feeling of being cut off from the world.

Now imagine living like that every day, not because of a global crisis — but because loneliness has quietly become someone’s whole life.

At SUNSHINE, we refuse to let that happen. Not in London. Not in our communities. Not while we’re here.

We’re here to bring back joy, connection and human warmth — and we need someone extraordinary to help us build the services that will make that happen.

Who We Are

SUNSHINE is a brand‑new, grassroots, 100% volunteer‑powered charity on a mission to brighten the lives of people experiencing loneliness and social isolation. We’re small but fierce, hopeful, and building something meaningful from the ground up. We’re awaiting our charity number — but our purpose is already alive and growing.

Our services will be the lifeline people hold onto. And you will be the one who shapes them.

Your Role: Head of SUNSHINE Services

This is a rare opportunity to build a charity’s services from scratch — to design programmes that genuinely change lives and bring people back into community.

You will lead the creation, delivery and development of our pilot programmes, including:

• Digital Inclusion & Skills (6‑week programme) — helping people reconnect with the world through confidence, technology and support

• Wellbeing Wednesdays (12‑week programme) — a warm, uplifting space for emotional wellbeing, connection and growth

• Monthly Coffee Mornings — simple, joyful gatherings that remind people they matter

And that’s just the beginning.

You’ll work in co‑production with the people we serve — listening, learning, and shaping new services based on real needs, real voices, and real lives.

You will:

• Design, launch and oversee all SUNSHINE services and programmes

• Manage and support Programme Coordinators delivering each pilot

• Ensure quality, safety and impact across everything we offer

• Build a culture of compassion, empowerment and joy within our service teams

• Use feedback and lived experience to shape future services

• Be a key leader in how SUNSHINE grows and supports communities

Your work will directly help people feel seen, valued and connected again.

Who You Are

• You’re someone who cares deeply about people and community.
• You understand how powerful a simple act of connection can be.
• You’re organised, compassionate, creative — and excited by the idea of building something new.
• Maybe you’ve worked in service delivery, community programmes, wellbeing, social care, education, or project management.
• Maybe you’ve supported vulnerable people before.
• Maybe you’ve led teams or shaped services.

What matters most is your heart, your drive, and your belief that no one should face life alone.

Why Join Us Now?

Because this is the moment everything begins.

You won’t just be joining a charity — you’ll be helping to build it. Your ideas will matter. Your leadership will shape lives. Your work will bring sunshine into places that have been dark for far too long.

If you want to be part of something hopeful, human and life‑changing, this is your moment.

How to Apply

Send us your CV and a short statement about why this role speaks to you.

We welcome people from all backgrounds, experiences and walks of life.

Let’s build services that bring people back to life — together.

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:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance. We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace.

Join us in leading positive change!

The Admin Assistant role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to:

• Gain experience in the Third Sector.
• Develop their skills and management experience; or just simply 'give something back to their community'.

The role provides you with flexibility and autonomy at work. Where necessary, specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Managing organisation of meetings and appointment
• Organising events and conferences
• Managing databases
• Implementing and maintaining procedures and administrative systems
• Liaising with staff
• Miscellaneous tasks to support the team.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential:

• You will need to have good written skills.
• Well organised, proactive, and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
• Good time management
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.
• Able to participate at least 12 hours a week (2 days, 6 hours each day)

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
• Proficiency in Microsoft and Excel

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK and QMC Capoeira School runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday, Wednesday and/or Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Expected hours: No less than 12 per week

Benefits:

• Flexitime
• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Application question(s):

• Do you have access to a personal laptop or PC?
• Are you sure you can commit to this job as being a non-paid job?
• Do you think you will be able to commit yourself to the PDP programme, implicitly 12 hours per week, for 16 weeks?

Work Location: Remote