Volunteer roles
About Hope for the Young
We are a community of mentors, staff, young people, and volunteers who are passionate about welcoming young refugees to the UK and ensuring they are given every opportunity they need to settle into their communities, access education, and reach their full potential. Our mission is to remove the obstacles to young refugees and asylum-seekers’ education and well-being through mentoring, advocacy, and financial support.
We are looking for a passionate and creative Social Media Volunteer to help grow our online presence and amplify the voices of the young people we support.
As part of this role, you will:
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Create and schedule engaging social media content
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Draft compelling captions and stories
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Design graphics and visual content on Canva
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Share impact stories and highlight the achievements of young people
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Help grow engagement and reach across our social platforms
Requirements for the Role:
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Strong written English skills
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Ability to create engaging and creative content
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Good understanding of tone, messaging, and audience engagement
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Excellent attention to detail
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Able to commit to 7 hours per week (however this could be negotiated).
What you will get in return:
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Gain hands-on experience in social media and communications
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Develop content creation and storytelling skills
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Contribute to meaningful work supporting young people seeking safety in the UK
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Receive a reference upon successful completion of the role
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Flexible volunteering hours
- Travel expenses covered
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Must be able to attend meetings and attend courses when they become available
Pursuing the role
We are looking to run a volunteering interview selection session on:
- 03/04/2026, Details of times, venue, etc to be confirmed.
If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role via our learning portal.
- Training for role - Complete any mandatory training required for role details of course including dates, time & venue TBC.
Closing date for these opportunities is: 03/04/2026
To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Do you have 2 hours in an evening, once a week during school term times to join our fun loving youth team supporting and developing our young inspirational volunteers? No matter what your interests: Crafting, Singing/Dancing, History, Science or caring for people/animals, we welcome you to join us. Full training is provided. This is a great opportunity to develop your own skills, knowledge and build on your CV. All whilst having fun, making friends and supporting your community. Our Cadet programme gives young people aged to 11-18 years, to get involved in: • learning first aid • volunteering at local and national events • engaging in social action and helping their local community • learning about health and wellbeing • developing confidence and communication skills through Cadet leadership training • enjoying a wide range of outdoor and adventurous activities. We currently have vacancies in the following areas: Bilsthorpe on Monday evenings Hucknall on Tuesday evenings Mansfield and Worksop on Wednesday evenings.
As a youth helper there is a requirement for you to attend weekly meetings, at least 2 per month, during term time. Relevant training for the role will be given. The cadet group meets on Monday evenings in term time.
Pursuing the role
We are looking to run a volunteering interview selection session, dates and venue to be confirmed
If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role, dates, time & venue to be confirmed.
Closing date for these opportunities is:
31/05/2026
To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.
You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Do you want to help the youth of today become the lifesavers of tomorrow? We're on a mission to teach young people across the country how to save lives. It's a chance for them to learn important first aid skills in a fun, friendly, and safe environment. St John is one of the largest youth organisations in the country and many of our young volunteers go onto careers in health and/or social care. Being a youth volunteer helps young people develop skills and confidence that go on to help them with further education and university applications. To do this we need dedicated and enthusiastic youth helpers. Do you have 2 hours in an evening, once a week during school term times to join our fun loving youth team supporting and developing our young inspirational volunteers?
No matter what your interests: Crafting, Singing/Dancing, History, Science or caring for people/animals, we welcome you to join us. Full training is provided. This is a great opportunity to develop your own skills, knowledge and build on your CV. All whilst having fun, making friends and supporting your community. Our Badger programme gives children aged 5-10 years of age the chance to learn first aid, play games and develop a wide range of skills in a safe and supportive environment.
We currently have vacancies in the following areas: Monday evenings South Normanton Tuesday evenings Hucknall If you’d like to know more about volunteering or would just like to chat to someone who does, get in touch.
As a youth helper there is a requirement for you to attend weekly meetings, at least 2 per month, during term time. The Badgers meet on Monday evenings at South Normanton. Relevant training for the role will be given.
Pursuing the role
If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role via our learning portal.
As a youth helper there is a requirement for you to attend weekly meetings, at least 2 per month, during term time. The Badgers meet on Monday evenings at South Normanton. Relevant training for the role will be given.
Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/05/2026
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you want to help the youth of today become the lifesavers of tomorrow? We're on a mission to teach young people across the country how to save lives. It's a chance for them to learn important first aid skills in a fun, friendly, and safe environment.
St John is one of the largest youth organisations in the country and many of our young volunteers go onto careers in health and/or social care.
Being a youth volunteer helps young people develop skills and confidence that go on to help them with further education and university applications. To do this we need dedicated and enthusiastic youth helpers. Do you have 2 hours in an evening, once a week during school term times to join our fun loving youth team supporting and developing our young inspirational volunteers? No matter what your interests: Crafting, Singing/Dancing, History, Science or caring for people/animals, we welcome you to join us.
Full training is provided. This is a great opportunity to develop your own skills, knowledge and build on your CV. All whilst having fun, making friends and supporting your community.
Our Badger are children aged 5-10 years of age and the Cadets are 11 – 17
If you’d like to know more about volunteering or would just like to chat to someone who does, get in touch.
As a youth helper there is a requirement for you to attend weekly meetings, at least 2 per month, during term time.
Must be able to attend meetings and attend courses when they become available Complete any mandatory training required for role: Introduction to Safeguarding Level 1 GDPR Youth Helper Induction Workbook Safeguarding level 2
The closing date for this advert will be 03/04/2026
Interview - dates and time, locations to be advised
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you want to help the youth of today become the lifesavers of tomorrow? We're on a mission to teach young people across the country how to save lives. It's a chance for them to learn important first aid skills in a fun, friendly, and safe environment.
St John is one of the largest youth organisations in the country and many of our young volunteers go onto careers in health and/or social care.
Being a youth volunteer helps young people develop skills and confidence that go on to help them with further education and university applications. To do this we need dedicated and enthusiastic youth helpers. Do you have 2 hours in an evening, once a week during school term times to join our fun loving youth team supporting and developing our young inspirational volunteers? No matter what your interests: Crafting, Singing/Dancing, History, Science or caring for people/animals, we welcome you to join us.
Full training is provided. This is a great opportunity to develop your own skills, knowledge and build on your CV. All whilst having fun, making friends and supporting your community.
Our Badger programme gives children aged 5-10 years of age the chance to learn first aid, play games and develop a wide range of skills in a safe and supportive environment. We currently have vacancies in the following areas: Monday evenings South Normanton Tuesday evenings Hucknall If you’d like to know more about volunteering or would just like to chat to someone who does, get in touch.
As a youth helper there is a requirement for you to attend weekly meetings, at least 2 per month, during term time. The Badgers meet on Tuesday evenings at Hucknall. Relevant training for the role will be given.
The closing date for this advert will be 31/05/2026
Interview - dates and time, locations to be advised
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Face Painter Volunteer
About The Role
As a face painter you will be out and about in the grounds, engaging with visitors to create memories and helping them and you to have a great day out!
We believe that the best way for people to understand and connect to wetlands is to experience them, so we awe-inspiring nature up close at Martin Mere Wetland Centre, visitors can explore unique wetland habitats and the amazing array of birds and mammals that inhabit them. Our volunteers help to welcome and inspire visitors.
Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You’ll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need.
If you are interested in volunteering for WWT but don’t wish to apply online, please email us or give us a call and leave a message with your name and number.
Just to let you know, some of our roles are very popular. To help our teams and minimise disappointment for people kind enough to want to support us, we might take roles down before the closing date if we get a lot of applications. If you do miss a role, or are looking for something particular, you can sign up to opportunity alerts.
About You
This role will suit you if you:
- Have good communication skills and an outgoing personality
- Looking for some relevant work experience
- Have a willingness to talk to visitors both on a one-to-one level and to larger groups
- Are interested in education related activities and the natural environment
- Have excellent customer service skills
- Enjoy working with families and children
- Have previous experience of face painting
- Are happy volunteering on your own initiative under the direction of the Visitor Experience Manager
Please note that unfortunately this role is not suitable for Under 18’s.
About Us
We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.
Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.
Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?
Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT:
- Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
- Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
- Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife – talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake…
- Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
- Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
- Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life
How to Apply:
For more information on this fun role, and others, and to apply, please visit our website.
We look forward to hearing from you!
The Refuge Admin Support Worker Volunteer supports the daily running of our Bexley Refuges by helping women and families access activities, appointments, and resources.
You’ll assist with admin tasks, run or support group activities and house meetings, make contact calls, keep records updated, and help with in-house and external activities.
The role suits someone proactive, friendly, organised, and confident with IT, with an understanding of domestic abuse. Experience with children or groups is a bonus.
Volunteers gain experience in the VAWG sector, access training and supervision, and play a key role in supporting women on their recovery journey.
Solace exists to end the harm done through gender-based violence. Our aim is to work to prevent violence and abuse.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for volunteers (21yrs+) to befriend a child or young person in care or leaving care. To provide opportunities for them to develop a meaningful. long-term relationship.
·W H O A R E B L G C ?
At BLGC we welcome over 4,000 young people through our doors every year. Now one of the largest youth clubs in the UK with a state-of-art base, Infinity, we have something for everyone including sports, arts, mentoring and community outreach work as well as some extras for those who need it most.
W E A R E L O O K I N G F O R S O M E O N E W H O
Can establish a positive, stable and long-term relationship with a young person.
Is reliable, non-judgemental, a good listener and able to engage with a child/young person.
Can promote the young persons developmental, social, emotional, cultural and religious needs.
Can value and respect the wishes and feelings of the child or young person and where necessary can advocate on their behalf.
Can adhere to policies and procedures at all times with emphasis on confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety and relevant local authority procedures.
Is 21+ years old Has a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
W H A T C A N I E X P E C T TOB E D O I N G ?
Meeting with the young person on a regular basis in the community for a couple of hours.
Engage with the young person in recreational/educational and fun activities. Help them to explore new experiences to build their self-confidence and self-esteem.
Act as a positive role model for the young person.
W H A T A R E T H E B E N E F I T S
You will receive a thorough induction programme and training for the role.
You will receive quarterly supervisions and ongoing support from a member of the team.
You will make a real difference to a young persons life.
You will have opportunities to meet with other volunteers and young people.
Out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteers assist the young people we support on camps and local day activities.
Our programme provides young people with the chance to try new things and challenge themselves, experience success, learn to go beyond their expectations and grow in confidence. They have the chance to take part in a range of activities, work in a team, experience group living and challenge themselves in a new environment. The programme is built around three residential adventure camps; Coastal Camp in the Purbecks, Mountain Camp in the Brecon Beacons, and Forest Camp in the Forest of Dean
As a Programme Volunteer at one of our camps you will work with groups of up to 10 young people alongside other experienced volunteers, trained members of staff and activity instructors. You will have the opportunity to take part in all of the activities with the young people, ensuring that they get the most out of their time on our programme.
You will ensure the welfare and organisation of the young people, help them to get involved and overcome issues, encourage and support their social relationships and help guide your team to work together.
With our support you will also help facilitate the young people’s learning and development by planning and delivering regular review sessions.
You will be invited to join our annual volunteer training weekend in Wiltshire over the weekend of 11 and 12 July 2026.
Coastal Camp is from Sun 24 to 26 May or Thurs 28 to Sat 30 May 2026.
Mountain Camp is from Sat 25 to Thurs 30 July or Sat 1 to Thurs 6 August 2026.
Forest Camp is from Sat 15 to Thurs 20 August or Sat 22 to Thurs 27 August 2026.
There will be other opportunities to support us throughout the year at day activities in Wiltshire and Somerset.
We use outdoor adventure and one-to-one support to empower young people to fulfil their potential and lead positive lives in the future.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Sutton Trust is at a pivotal moment in its development. For nearly three decades, we have been the UK’s leading voice on social mobility, working tirelessly to break the link between socio-economic background and life chances. Today, that mission is as urgent as it has ever been. Despite pockets of progress, social mobility in the UK remains low by international standards, with deep inequalities in education, access to professions, and regional opportunity continuing to limit life chances and economic potential.
We are seeking a Trustee with policy expertise who shares our commitment to fairness, evidence, and long-term change. We value diversity of thought and experience, and we are keen to hear from those who can help us navigate an evolving political landscape and leverage our research to challenge systemic barriers, ensuring our voice remains the most influential in the national drive to transform social mobility.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Trustee
Policy Responsibilities
- Providing oversight for the charity’s research and advocacy, ensuring the Trust’s work is mission-aligned, evidence-based, and intellectually rigorous
- Supporting the Board in discharging their collective duties around planning, risk and compliance, particularly in areas such as horizon scanning for upcoming legislative changes, political shifts and shifts in social trends affecting the Trust as well as specific regulations around political neutrality
- Leveraging their professional networks and expertise, enhancing the charity’s credibility and influence, ensuring our research translates into meaningful systemic change
General Responsibilities
- Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s vision, mission and values and providing advice on the Trust’s wider purpose, goals and activities
- Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s aims and long-term strategy in furtherance of its charitable purpose
- Ensuring key risks are identified, monitored and controlled effectively as well as keeping abreast of changes in the Trust’s operating environment
- Monitoring the Trust’s performance against its strategic aims, operational plans and budgets
- Safeguarding and promoting the Trust’s reputation, and acting in the best interest of the Trust at all times
- Ensuring the financial stability and sustainability of the Trust
- Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
- Ensuring proper arrangements are in place for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and renumeration of the CEO and they are held to account
- Contributing to regular reviews of the Trust’s own governance
- Ensuring the Trust complies with its governing documents, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use their specific skills, knowledge and experience to contribute to the Board’s decision-making, and dedicate sufficient time to carry out their responsibilities effectively. This may involve sitting on Board Committees, scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.
Trustees aim to support a specific member of the SLT based on their skills and experience or may participate in appropriate subgroups, e.g., Alumni Leadership Board, Education Advisory Group, (Development) Board meetings, etc.
Person Specification
Mission and Values
- Sympathetic to the aims of the Trust and its mission to address educational disadvantage
- High level of personal and professional ethics, integrity, and accountability
- Willingness to safeguard and promote the Trust’s reputation within the wider sector
Strategy and Interpersonal Skills
- Ability to think strategically in order to provide appropriate oversight and scrutiny for the Trust’s overall activity and direction
- Ability to confidently and fairly make evidence-based decisions and constructively challenge the decisions of others if required
- Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team to provide advice, make decisions, and/or solve problems
- A commitment to personal development and a willingness to participate in regular reviews of the Board’s own performance and governance
Governance, Risk and Finance
- Understanding of the legal duties of a Trustee (or willingness to learn), including compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House regulations and commitment to the roles and responsibilities of a Trustee
- Awareness of (or willingness to learn about) financial health indicators and organisational risk management
Specialist Expertise and Experience
- A background in public affairs, civil service, think tanks, education sector organisations or senior policy or research roles in (education) charities
- Strong understanding of how UK government (at local, regional or national level) and/ or the UK education sector works
- Strong influencing and communications skills with the ability to lead discussions, provide expert advice, and influence stakeholders in a professional manner
- Good understanding of how to translate policy jargon into clear, strategic advice for the wider Trustee Board
Interviews
Applications should reach us by 10am, Monday 30th March. First round interviews will take place on Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th April, and second round interviews will take place w/c 27th April or w/c 4th May. All interviews will be held at our London offices in Millbank Tower.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer With Us – Make a Real Difference in East London
Be part of something meaningful across East London, with most activities taking place in Barking and Dagenham. Our volunteers support young people through music, creativity and community projects, from after-school clubs to outreach and local events.
Many roles involve in-person support, particularly community outreach such as flyer distribution and engagement with local residents. For this reason, we are especially looking for volunteers who can travel to Barking and Dagenham regularly.
Current Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Youth Workers
Volunteer Social Media Assistants
Volunteer Content Creators
Volunteer Corporate Fundraisers (no door-to-door fundraising)
Volunteer Community Outreach Coordinators
Volunteer Digital Marketers
Volunteer Event Support Assistants
Volunteer Photographers
Volunteer Videographers
Volunteer After-School Club Assistants (Primary age)
Volunteer After-School Club Assistants (Secondary age)
You can select your preferred role and indicate how much time you are able to give on the application form.
What You’ll Gain
- New friendships and local connections
- Valuable skills and hands-on experience
- Stronger confidence and career prospects
- A sense of purpose from giving back
- Improved wellbeing through positive community work
- The chance to contribute to something lasting
If you care about young people, music and community, and want your time to have real impact, we would love to hear from you.
Apply today or get in touch if you have any questions.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Supporting Chapter Manager - Volunteer Role
About Make A Smile
Make A Smile is a UK charity dedicated to bringing joy, play, and magical experiences to children facing illness, disability, or disadvantage. Volunteers dress as beloved characters and deliver uplifting activities, from hospital visits and care‑centre sessions to arts, crafts, stories, and games - ensuring every child gets the chance to enjoy their childhood. Trustees and Officers are essential to keeping the charity running smoothly across the UK, helping us “bring smiles to the faces of so many children.”
About the Role
The Supporting Chapter Manager plays a vital role in strengthening Make A Smile’s chapters across the UK. You will identify chapters that are struggling, assess their needs, and provide hands‑on support to help them rebuild, grow, and thrive. This role directly protects the continuity of the charity in key areas and ensures no chapter is left behind.
Key Responsibilities
You will take a proactive, leadership‑focused role in supporting and revitalising chapters. Responsibilities include:
● Assessing chapters regularly to understand their challenges and support needs.
● Providing hands‑on intervention for struggling chapters, focusing on recruitment, events, and wardrobe.
● Leading chapter overhauls when needed, including stepping in as temporary President if required.
● Supporting committee members, rebuilding enthusiasm, and setting clear action plans.
● Monitoring committee engagement and escalating concerns to the Chair when necessary.
● Ensuring struggling chapters focus on the “Golden Triangle”: wardrobe, trained volunteers, and events.
● Collaborating with the Wardrobe Manager, Recruitment Manager, and Events Manager for specialist support.
● Encouraging an “upwards spiral” of volunteer engagement, recruitment, and event quality.
● Reporting chapter progress and concerns at monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
This role suits someone who is proactive, organised, and passionate about helping teams succeed. You’ll thrive if you bring:
● Strong leadership and people‑management skills.
● Confidence in motivating and supporting volunteers.
● A solution‑focused mindset.
● The ability to stay calm and structured when chapters are under pressure.
● Willingness to step in hands‑on when needed. Posting on social media, organising events, messaging volunteers, etc.
● Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Act in the best interests of Make a Smile… Enjoy it!”).
Time Commitment
Trustees and Officers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week to their role. This includes chapter assessments, communication, meetings, and hands‑on support.
Training and Support
You will receive:
● Full Trustee Training (online).
● A comprehensive handover and access to all systems (OneDrive, Simvoly, WhatsApp communities).
● Guidance from the Chair and other Trustees.
● Access to the Supporting Chapter Guide and President training materials.
● Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity-funded training.
What You’ll Gain
● Leadership experience in a national charity.
● Skills in team support, crisis management, and organisational development.
● A meaningful role where your work directly keeps chapters alive and thriving.
● The chance to shape the future of Make A Smile and support volunteers across the UK.
● The joy of knowing your efforts help bring magical experiences to children.
Safeguarding and Eligibility
Trustees and Officers must act in line with charity standards, including professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability. You must be able to attend monthly meetings and engage actively in communication channels. A DBS check may be required depending on involvement with events.
How to Apply
To express your interest, please send across your CV along with a short message outlining your experience and why you’d like to support our chapters.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping children smile.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



- Please note that this is an on-site volunteering opportunity, and we encourage local volunteers to apply -
Do you love gardening and helping others?
Join our Friday morning gardening group as a Co-Lead and be part of something truly special.
During the growing season, students from a specialist SEND school visit our vibrant Victorian-style kitchen garden each week to plant, water, and harvest fresh fruit and vegetables. Bringing your gardening knowledge and practical skills, you’ll work alongside a staff member who specialises in supporting SEND pupils. Together, you’ll lead a friendly team of around eight volunteers who support the group each Friday.
Experience working with teens with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) is wonderful but not essential. You’ll be supported by skilled carers and HLC staff, and you’ll gain valuable experience along the way.
What to expect
Sessions run on Friday mornings during term time (April–July and September–October). You’ll help prepare activities, brief volunteers, welcome students, and pair them with one-to-one support for the session.
You may work directly with a participant or oversee the wider group — and, of course, hand out the all-important biscuits at break time! At the end of each session, you’ll lead the tidy-up, support a short debrief with students and volunteers, and share key updates and photos with the volunteer team to keep everyone informed and motivated.
You’ll play an important role in helping participants work towards meaningful goals, such as following instructions, managing transitions, and developing fine motor skills.
What we’re looking for
You’re patient, kind, and empathetic, especially when working with people with learning needs and disabilities. You’re reliable, flexible, and eager to learn.
Consistency is key, so we’re looking for someone who can commit to weekly Friday mornings during both the Autumn and Spring programmes. Your steady, friendly presence will help create stability and comfort for participants who may find change challenging.
Join us — and let’s grow something wonderful together, in the garden and beyond.
Time commitment
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Fridays, 9:30am–12:00pm
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Autumn: 4–6 weeks (September–October)
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Spring: 10–12 weeks (April/May–July)
An additional morning for garden maintenance and session preparation may be helpful in future, but this isn’t essential at the outset.
Skills and experience
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Gardening knowledge and practical skills (required)
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Experience with teens with PMLD (desirable, not essential)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
- Please note that this is an on-site volunteering opportunity, and we encourage local volunteers to apply -
Are you ready to inspire others and make a real difference? Join our Education Team at The Holly Lodge Centre and help bring the wonders of nature and history to life for visitors of all abilities.
The Holly Lodge Centre was founded with a heartfelt mission: to make nature accessible to everyone. We are proud that over 50% of our programmes are designed for SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) participants.
Our wide range of programmes offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore the natural world on our outdoor trails, step back in time in our Victorian classroom or pharmacy, or share meaningful moments through our Reminiscence programmes for older adults. We welcome children from both mainstream and specialist SEND schools, and your role will be central to creating memorable, inclusive learning experiences.
What we’re looking for
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A patient, kind and empathetic individual, particularly confident supporting people with learning needs and disabilities
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A reliable and punctual self-starter who works well as part of a team and can adapt to unexpected changes
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Someone with a curious mind and infectious enthusiasm for learning
Whether you enjoy pond dipping and invertebrate hunting with children, or love dressing up and bringing history to life through character-led sessions, there’s a place for you at The Holly Lodge Centre. A teaching background is welcome but not essential — what matters most is your ability to engage and guide groups of children with confidence, warmth and joy.
You’ll be fully supported through shadowing opportunities, detailed programme plans and access to further learning resources. No prior specialist knowledge of Richmond Park’s flora, fauna or history is required — just a willingness to learn and share your enthusiasm.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


