127 Volunteer roles

Help lead a vital local service supporting people across Wythenshawe when they need it most. We’re looking for a compassionate, organised and practical Foodbank Manager who can keep our day-to-day operations running smoothly while helping us build for the future.

Wythenshawe Foodbank is an independent charity and part of the Trussell network. Through our central hub and community distribution centres, we provide emergency food and support to local people facing financial hardship and crisis.

This is a varied, hands-on role at the heart of the organisation. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you’ll coordinate activity across our foodbank sites, support our dedicated volunteers and work closely with our Warehouse Manager, referral agencies, donors and community partners.

No two days will be quite the same. You could be supporting volunteers at a distribution centre, responding to an urgent enquiry, reviewing stock levels, preparing information for trustees or representing the foodbank at a local event. You’ll need to be comfortable balancing people, practical operations and administration, while always ensuring that everyone who uses our service is treated with dignity, empathy and respect.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Coordinating the day-to-day operation of the foodbank and its distribution centres
• Supporting volunteers and working closely with centre supervisors
• Overseeing communications and acting as a first point of contact for enquiries
• Working with the Warehouse Manager to monitor stock and maintain supply
• Managing relationships with referral agencies, donors and community partners
• Monitoring performance data and providing clear updates to trustees
• Supporting fundraising, outreach, newsletters, social media and local publicity
• Maintaining accurate financial and administrative records
• Ensuring high standards of health and safety, food hygiene, data protection and safeguarding
• Helping the foodbank meet Trussell’s operating standards and legal requirements

We’re looking for someone who combines compassion with strong organisational skills. You’ll be an excellent communicator who can build positive relationships with people from a wide range of backgrounds. You’ll be calm under pressure, confident working independently and willing to get involved wherever needed.

Experience in charity operations, volunteer coordination, community services or a similar people-focused environment would be valuable. Most importantly, you’ll understand the realities facing people in crisis and share our commitment to providing support without judgement.

This is an opportunity to take on a meaningful role where your work will have a direct impact on the local community. You’ll join a committed team of trustees, staff and volunteers who care deeply about Wythenshawe and the people we support.

The role is for 17.5 hours per week, with working days and hours to be agreed. Some occasional evening or weekend work may be required. The initial contract is for 12 months, with the hope that it will continue subject to funding.

White Lodge Centre provides services that enable those with a range of disabilities, their families and carers to lead fulfilling lives. Supporting over 2,500 people across Surrey, the charity delivers a range of specialist services that help people build independence, confidence and meaningful connections at every stage of life.

Following a significant period of modernisation, White Lodge is entering an exciting new chapter. With strong governance, modern infrastructure and a clear strategic direction, the charity is well positioned to build on its foundations. The Active Plan 2025–30 (linked in the Application Resources section at the bottom of this advert) sets out an ambitious vision to strengthen its community reach, champion the voices of people with disabilities and help create a more inclusive Surrey where everyone can thrive.

The charity is now seeking a Chair of the Board of Trustees to help bring that vision to life. This is an opportunity to join a well-established, values-led charity at a pivotal point in its journey to provide strategic leadership, bring fresh perspectives and work alongside the Board and Chief Executive to shape White Lodge’s next chapter.

Role Overview

Alongside your duties as a Trustee, you will provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring strong governance, accountability and oversight of White Lodge. 

Working closely with fellow Trustees and the Chief Executive, you will ensure the charity operates in line with its charitable purpose, legal obligations and strategic ambitions while responding to new opportunities and challenges.

You will champion ethical leadership, encourage robust debate, and ensure decisions are principled, well-governed and strategically sound. 

The Chair plays a key role in fostering an effective, collaborative Board and building strong relationships with Trustees, senior leaders and external stakeholders to support White Lodge’s long-term success and strategic ambitions. 

The initial term for this position is 3 years, with the possibility of extending for another 3 years.

Key Responsibilities

• Promote and uphold high standards of governance, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission, Companies House and relevant legislation. 

• Chair Trustee Board meetings, setting agendas that prioritise strategy, risk, performance and impact. 

• Model ethical, values-led leadership and act at all times in the best interests of White Lodge. 

• Work in close partnership with the Chief Executive to ensure governance aligns with delivery of the Strategic Plan, while maintaining clear boundaries between governance and operational management.

• Ensure effective oversight of financial stewardship, safeguarding, risk management and organisational performance. 

• Ensure risk and assurance processes are embedded across Board and committee work.

• Oversee Board effectiveness, including annual evaluations, Trustee development and succession planning. 

• Lead regular review of Board composition, skills and diversity. 

• Support Trustees to understand and discharge their duties as Charity Trustees and Company Directors. 

• Work closely with Committee Chairs to ensure effective reporting, escalation of risk and alignment with Board priorities. 

• Represent White Lodge externally where appropriate, acting as an ambassador for the charity and helping to strengthen its reputation, build strategic relationships and develop partnerships that support White Lodge’s long-term ambitions.

• Maintain up-to-date awareness of charity governance practice, regulatory developments and sector expectations. 

• Participate in Board committees if appropriate, recognising that committee responsibilities may evolve over time to reflect the needs of the organisation.

Time Commitment

This is a voluntary role. The typical time commitment includes:

• Quarterly Trustee Board meetings (evenings; in person)

• Annual Board Away Day / strategic planning session (full day; in person)

• Attendance at bi-annual committee meetings if appropriate, to be agreed with the Board

• Regular liaison with the Chief Executive and Committee Chairs (hybrid)

• Preparation time and occasional external representation (hybrid)

Experience & Person Specification

To be successful in this role you will bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience, with experience of governance, Board leadership or working alongside Boards. This experience may have been gained within the charity, public or private sectors.

• A strong understanding of strategic leadership, sound governance and organisational oversight, or the ability to develop knowledge of charity governance quickly.

• Experience contributing to organisational performance, strategic planning, risk management and effective decision-making.

• The ability to chair meetings, facilitate constructive discussion and build consensus across a diverse group of stakeholders.

• Excellent communication, influencing and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to represent White Lodge externally and develop strong partnerships. 

• Sound judgement, integrity and a collaborative, values-led leadership style. 

• A genuine commitment to White Lodge’s vision, mission and values, and a passion for creating inclusive opportunities for children, adults and families. 

We welcome applications from individuals who bring diverse perspectives and lived experience relevant to White Lodge’s mission. We recognise that exceptional Chairs come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, and encourage applications from people who share White Lodge’s vision, values and commitment to creating an inclusive society. 

How to Apply

To express your interest in becoming the next Chair of Trustees at White Lodge, please complete the form linked within the “Redirect to recruiter” button.

As part of the form, you’ll be asked to provide:

• Your personal and contact details

• Information relating to your eligibility to act as a charity trustee, including any conflicts of interest

• Declarations relating to safeguarding, DBS checks and the accuracy of the information you provide

• Your CV

• A cover letter

Your cover letter should explain:

• Why you are interested in becoming Chair of Trustees at White Lodge

• How your skills, experience and leadership approach align with the role

• What you would bring to the organisation as Chair, with reference to the person specification where appropriate

We encourage you to keep your cover letter to no more than two pages of A4.

The deadline for applications is 9pm on Sunday 20th September 2026, although applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and first stage conversations may take place before the deadline. We will not conduct final stage interviews until after the deadline has passed to ensure we consider all applications.

The recruitment for this position is being exclusively managed by Radiate Hiring. If you have any questions, need to request adjustments for the application process or would like to discuss the position further then you can do so via the "Redirect to recruiter" button.

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

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

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

Roles and Responsibilities:

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

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

- Support staff members with planned activities

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

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

Person Specification:

Essential Criteria

- Friendly and approachable personality

- Punctual and reliable

- Experience of working/ volunteering with children

- Creative personality

Desirable Criteria

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

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

- Experience of education or an educational setting

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

Our next volunteer induction will be held in September 2026, so please apply ASAP to be able to join.

Action for Refugees in Lewisham works to relieve poverty and isolation amongst refugees, asylum seekers and other vulnerable migrants in Lewisham. At the Rainbow Club Saturday Supplementary School we aim to help children between the ages of 4 and 11 to improve their literacy, numeracy and social skills in a friendly and supportive environment.  We need your skills and enthusiasm to assist the teacher in the delivery of a literacy and numeracy class and work with other volunteers to develop a programme of recreational activities. The Rainbow Club runs on Saturday mornings during term-time.

Your duties will include:

• Arriving punctually for the 9am briefing by the Rainbow Club Headteacher;
• Working in a team with other volunteers and teachers to deliver literacy, numeracy, arts, sport activities – this includes ensuring children remain engaged throughout the lesson and carry out set tasks as instructed by the teacher;
• Working one-to-one with specific children if and when required;
• Filing classroom work and homework in children’s individual files and keeping all materials and resources tidy and properly stored;
• Liaising with parents as and when required for example distributing leaflets and news about future meetings and events and also assisting with parents' day;
• Following the teacher’s policies on discipline and classroom management;
• Supervising the children during break times;
• Supporting the children during class trips;
• Ensuring classrooms are clean and tidy at the end of each day – this may include being part of a regular team rota;
• Providing feedback and comments to the Rainbow Club Headteacher when required.

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting Oaklea Trust in their search for their next Chair of Trustees. 

About Oaklea Trust

The Oaklea Trust is a charitable organisation whose purpose is to give vulnerable people the opportunity to live and work as independently as possible within their community. Established in 2002 and based in Cumbria, County Durham and Northumberland, we support disabled, disadvantaged and vulnerable children and adults. Our charitable work supports people of all ages who have Learning Disabilities, Physical Disabilities, Mental Health needs, and/or Dementia.

The Oaklea Group is made up of the charity, Oaklea Trust, and its commercial arm, Right2Work. Together, they support people and communities to learn, develop and thrive through person-centred care and support, learning opportunities, and pathways into employment.

This is a unique opportunity to help lead a values-driven organisation that supports people and communities across the North of England to learn, develop and thrive.

About the Chair opportunity

As Chair, you will energise and empower the Board and the Group as a whole. You will foster a culture of openness, collaboration, and constructive debate. You will inspire confidence and ensure the highest standards of governance, integrity and accountability. 

You will also help shape the Group’s future impact, supporting our mission to reduce inequality and create opportunities for people and communities to thrive. Through your strategic insight and advocacy, you will help extend our reach, strengthen partnerships and ensure more people can access the care, support and opportunities they need and deserve.

The Chair of the Oaklea Board of Trustees will:

• Ensure the Board functions effectively
• Guide Oaklea Trust’s strategic direction
• Ensure governance oversight
• Represent Oaklea Trust internally and externally
• Evaluate and support the Chief Executive
• Champion the leadership of Committees

We are seeking a new Chair of Trustees who can bring the following experience and capabilities to the role. We recognise that lived experience can offer valuable insights that greatly enhance a role like this, especially when combined with professional expertise.

Experience/Background:

• Experience of strategic leadership and governance within an organisation of equivalent size and complexity to Oaklea Trust, ideally within a Group structure. 
• A track record of driving growth and innovation, with the ability to apply insight to support the achievement of Oaklea Trust’s strategic objectives. 
• Understanding of the challenges associated with leading and delivering regulated services and the management of the associated risks.
• Ability to constructively challenge and hold space for compassionate and constructive conversations.
• Financial and commercial acumen, including experience in financial planning, oversight, risk management, and the establishment and monitoring of systems of control and accountability. 
• Ability to scrutinise and manage financial risk, ensuring long-term financial sustainability and safeguarding against fraud. 
• Ability to open doors, build networks and maximise opportunities with a range of stakeholders, funders and partner organisations.
• Previous trustee and/or Chair/Vice Chair experience is desirable.

Walk side by side with those who have a vision impairment. Losing your sight or having no vision can be isolating. We are the charity in Cheshire, North Wales, and Halton that brings support to adults who are going through this, and we want to provide meaningful social opportunties.

Why volunteer for us?

• We offer full training on being a sighted guide
• You get to attend nice events like forest bathing, cinema, golf, and swiming
• We offer travel expenses for those who are local (approx 20 miles)
• It's an active role and you get to support someone socially.

Do you enjoy spending time outdoors and helping things grow? We’re looking for a friendly and reliable Gardening Volunteer to support with maintaining and developing our garden spaces, helping create a calm, welcoming environment for people using our mental health recovery service.

What you will be doing

• Helping with general gardening tasks such as planting, weeding, watering, pruning and tidying
• Supporting service users who are interested in getting involved in gardening activities
• Helping maintain outdoor spaces so they are safe, welcoming and enjoyable
• Encouraging confidence, routine and teamwork through shared gardening tasks
• Working alongside staff and other volunteers

The skills you need

• An enjoyment of gardening and being outdoors
• A patient, supportive and encouraging approach
• Good communication skills and a friendly manner

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

Are you creative, imaginative and have a passion for drama? If so, we have an exciting role for you!

We are recruiting for a volunteer who will create a safe space for a group to enhance their communication skills, self-esteem, confidence whilst providing an element of escapism allowing individuals to take on another character through drama and acting.

What you will be doing

• Coordinate and set up drama classes
• Inspire and motivate individuals to participate in the sessions and take a role in planning/designing upcoming sessions
• Create a safe space for individuals to express themselves
• In group workshops, encourage members of the group to connect and relate to each other through acting and drama

The skills you need

• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Calm and patient approach
• Experience of facilitating drama classes desirable but not essential

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Do you love to meet new people and would like to facilitate Tea and Chat sessions? We are looking for friendly volunteers to engage in conversation with our service users over tea. Your role will be to make refreshments for any attendees and encourage other service users to get involved. This role would be great for anyone who loves to chat and engage with others!

What you will be doing

• Facilitate weekly Tea and chat sessions
• Make tea, coffee, and light refreshments for members
• Encourage service users to participate
• Engage in friendly conversation with service users
• Ensure service users follow group agreements.

The skills you need

• Patient and friendly manner
• Good communication and listening skills
• Basic knowledge on Food Safety
• Ability to provide a trusting, open, kind-hearted atmosphere that encourages participation
• An effective communicator with a patient and sympathetic nature
• Ability to handle individuals with complex needs and work with a person-centred approach

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

Are you creative? Would you like to support others to express their emotions through arts and crafting? You will be supporting people to express their emotions, provide a time for people to relax and feel proud of their final art products!

What you will be doing

• To prepare arts and craft sessions, involving individuals in the planning process where possible
• Inspire and motivate individuals to develop their arts and craft skills, assisting them in the creation of their projects and supporting them to brainstorm and use their own initiative
• Encourage individuals to continue independent activities

The skills you need

• Experience of arts and/or crafts either in a professional, educational, or personal level
• Able to collaborate with individuals to plan an art group session and facilitate confidently
• A calm and patient manner
• Ability to provide a trusting, open, kind-hearted atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• An effective communicator with a patient and sympathetic nature

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some funs

We are looking for a creative and encouraging Songwriting Support Volunteer to help service users explore music as a form of expression, confidence building, and emotional wellbeing. You will support individuals or small groups to develop their own lyrics, melodies, and song ideas in a relaxed, person-centred environment.

What you will be doing

• Support service users to create original music, including lyrics, themes, melodies, and simple compositions.
• Encourage creativity and self-expression through structured or informal songwriting sessions
• Help service users explore different styles or genres based on their interests
• Provide positive, trauma informed encouragement to build confidence and celebrate progress.
• Feedback to staff after sessions regarding attendance, engagement, and any wellbeing concerns

The skills you need

• A passion for music, songwriting, or creative arts
• Ability to support and encourage people with varying levels of confidence and ability
• Friendly, patient, and person centred approach
• Good communication and listening skills
• Ability to create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

We are looking for a friendly and enthusiastic Chess Volunteer to facilitate chess sessions for adults accessing our service! This role offers a fantastic opportunity to share your passion for chess while helping to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where service users can build confidence, develop strategic thinking skills, and connect with others.

What you will be doing

• Leading informal chess sessions for individuals or small groups.
• Teaching basic chess skills and strategies to beginners.
• Encouraging participation and helping service users develop confidence through play.
• Promoting a positive, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere.
• Supporting social interaction and reducing isolation through a shared activity.
• Working alongside staff to ensure sessions are safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.

The skills you need

• Knowledge of chess and enthusiasm for sharing the game with others.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patience, reliability, and a supportive approach.
• Ability to engage people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.s

About the Role

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

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

The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

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

What You Will Do

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

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

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

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

Requirements

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

About SeeAbility

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

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

About the Role

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

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

The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

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

What You Will Do

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

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

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

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

Requirements

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

About SeeAbility

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

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