Volunteer volunteer roles in Holborn, greater london

Volunteer Opportunity: Volunteer Coordinator

Help Spark a Movement of Human Connection Across London and Beyond

Location: Hybrid (East London focus)

Time Commitment: Flexible, approx. 4–8 hours per week

Salary: Voluntary/Unpaid

Reports To: Founder & CEO

About SUNSHINE Charity

Loneliness is one of the quietest crises of our time — but it doesn’t have to be.

SUNSHINE Charity is a new, volunteer-powered community organisation on a mission to reduce loneliness and social isolation by creating warm, joyful spaces where people can meet, connect, and feel like they truly belong.

We believe that everyone deserves to feel seen. Everyone deserves community. Everyone deserves connection.

As we prepare to launch our first programmes across London, we are looking for our very first Volunteer Coordinator — someone who wants to help build something meaningful from the ground up and shape the future of SUNSHINE.

This isn’t just a role. It’s an invitation to help build a movement.

The VOLUNTEER Opportunity

Volunteers are the beating heart of SUNSHINE.

As our Volunteer Coordinator, you won’t just be organising rotas or sending emails. You’ll be helping to build a community of people who show up for others — people who bring joy, warmth, and connection into the lives of those who need it most.

Your work will help create moments that matter: A smile at the door. A conversation that lifts someone’s day. A friendship that changes a life.

You will be the person who helps make all of that possible.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Finding and welcoming new volunteers through outreach, social media, and community networks

• Creating a warm, supportive onboarding experience

• Matching volunteers to roles that fit their skills, passions, and personalities

• Supporting volunteer wellbeing and engagement

• Keeping volunteer records and communication organised

• Coordinating rotas and availability

• Helping shape volunteer policies and processes

• Working closely with trustees and programme leads

• Nurturing a positive, inclusive, uplifting volunteer culture

• Growing our volunteer team as SUNSHINE expands across London

Who We’re Looking For

You don’t need charity experience — you just need heart.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Cares deeply about people and community

• Communicates with warmth, clarity, and empathy

• Enjoys building relationships

• Is organised, reliable, and proactive

• Can inspire and motivate others

• Is comfortable using email, online meetings, and basic digital tools

• Shares our values of kindness, inclusion, and connection

Experience in volunteer management, HR, community engagement, customer service, people management, or administration is helpful — but passion matters more than your CV.

Why Volunteer With SUNSHINE Charity?

This is a rare chance to:

• Help launch a brand-new community charity

• Play a foundational role in shaping our volunteer programme

• Make a real, lasting difference in tackling loneliness

• Gain leadership and volunteer management experience

• Build skills in recruitment, coordination, and community engagement

• Grow your professional network

• Work alongside a supportive, passionate team

• Leave a legacy that will impact communities across London

The Difference You’ll Make

• Behind every volunteer is a person who chose to give their time to help someone else.
• Behind every community session is a volunteer who welcomed someone through the door.
• Behind every new friendship is someone who created the opportunity for connection.

As Volunteer Coordinator, you will help make all of this happen.

Your contribution will help ensure that people who feel lonely or isolated can find friendship, belonging, and hope.

You will help bring people together — one connection at a time.

Join Us

If you believe in the power of kindness, community, and human connection, we would love to hear from you.

Help us build a future where no one feels alone. Become SUNSHINE Charity’s first Volunteer Coordinator and help us create a London filled with warmth, joy, and belonging.

SUNSHINE Charity

Creating connection. Building belonging. Bringing communities together.

Job description:

We are looking for few candidates to join our volunteer human resource programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field. While we only have few vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria.

About the Role

The HR Programme Manager is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the HR Programme and managing the HR Liaison. This position ensures the successful delivery of the HR Programme, aligning it with organisational goals and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. The Programme Manager will work closely with senior leadership, Heads of Department (HoDs), and the HR Liaison to design, implement, and refine the programme, ensuring it meets the needs of participants and the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Oversight of the HR Programme

• Develop and execute the strategic vision for the HR Programme, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
• Collaborate with the Director: HRBP, Legal, IT & HR Programme to define programme goals, KPIs, and success metrics.
• Continuously evaluate and refine the programme to address emerging needs and industry trends.

2. Team Leadership & Management

• Manage and mentor the HR Liaison, providing guidance and support to ensure effective programme execution.
• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team culture, encouraging innovation and accountability.

3. Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Heads of Department (HoDs) and external partners to ensure programme relevance and impact.
• Act as the primary point of contact for senior stakeholders, providing regular updates on programme progress and outcomes.

4. Programme Design & Implementation

• Oversee the design and delivery of HR Programme content, ensuring it meets the developmental needs of participants.
• Coordinate with internal and external facilitators to deliver high-quality training sessions, workshops, and resources.
• Ensure the integration of feedback from participants and stakeholders to enhance programme effectiveness.

5. Monitoring & Evaluation

• Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track participant progress and programme impact.
• Analyse data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare comprehensive reports for senior leadership, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

6. Communication & Advocacy

• Promote the HR Programme across the organisation, ensuring high visibility and engagement.
• Develop communication strategies to highlight success stories and programme benefits.

Required Skills

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align the HR Programme with organisational goals and adapt to changing priorities.
• Leadership & Team Management: Proven experience in leading and mentoring teams to achieve results.
• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional relationship-building skills to engage and influence senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Project Management: Strong organisational skills to manage complex programmes, budgets, and timelines.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate programme vision and outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in programme management, learning and development, or a related field.
• Experience in designing and implementing professional development programmes.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Benefits:

• Work from home

Application question(s):

• Are you sure you can commit to this being a non-paid role?
• Can you commit to 16 weeks ?
• Do you have access to personal PC or laptop?

Work Location: Remote

Could you help your local SSAFA team recruit volunteers in your area? Our volunteers are at the heart of SSAFA’s work, and recruiting the right people is essential to delivering our services! As one of our Regional Recruitment volunteers, you’ll play a key role in onboarding new community engagement volunteers for local branches. By supporting the recruitment process and supporting prospective volunteers, you will help ensure branches have the people they need to raise awareness in their communities!

Some of the areas you may be asked to support include:

• Answer questions from perspective volunteers contact on our volunteer recruitment platform for enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Review applications via our online recruitment platform and arrange interviews with prospective volunteers in line with SSAFA’s policies and values.
• Assess the suitability of volunteer candidates in line with SSAFA’s policies and values and ensure they are placed in roles that are the right fit for them.
• Support volunteers through the recruitment process by requesting references, helping new volunteers to book role-specific and mandatory training.
• Arrange and liaise with the local branch to ensure that the new volunteer is properly inducted into their new role.

***Please be advised that this is role is part of an initial trial and your support will help ascertain if this is suitable for us to role out across all regions.

Requirements

You will need access to IT equipment such as a laptop and the internet to carry out the administration related to the role. Time commitment This role would suit someone looking for a role that can be done remotely from home weekly.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Ensuring an inclusive recruitment experience for all volunteers in line with SSAFA’s values.
• Strong admin and organisational skills.
• Interest in developing interviewing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Confident using IT Systems and online platforms.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others and make a difference
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising awareness of SSAFA.
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills in recruitment and administration which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

Could you help your local SSAFA team recruit volunteers in your area? Our volunteers are at the heart of SSAFA’s work, and recruiting the right people is essential to delivering our services! As one of our Regional Recruitment volunteers, you’ll play a key role in onboarding new community engagement volunteers for local branches. By supporting the recruitment process and supporting prospective volunteers, you will help ensure branches have the people they need to raise awareness in their communities!

Some of the areas you may be asked to support include:

• Answer questions from perspective volunteers contact on our volunteer recruitment platform for enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Review applications via our online recruitment platform and arrange interviews with prospective volunteers in line with SSAFA’s policies and values.
• Assess the suitability of volunteer candidates in line with SSAFA’s policies and values and ensure they are placed in roles that are the right fit for them.
• Support volunteers through the recruitment process by requesting references, helping new volunteers to book role-specific and mandatory training.
• Arrange and liaise with the local branch to ensure that the new volunteer is properly inducted into their new role.

***Please be advised that this is role is part of an initial trial and your support will help ascertain if this is suitable for us to role out across all regions.

Requirements

You will need access to IT equipment such as a laptop and the internet to carry out the administration related to the role. Time commitment This role would suit someone looking for a role that can be done remotely from home weekly.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Ensuring an inclusive recruitment experience for all volunteers in line with SSAFA’s values.
• Strong admin and organisational skills.
• Interest in developing interviewing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Confident using IT Systems and online platforms.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others and make a difference
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising awareness of SSAFA.
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills in recruitment and administration which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

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 community champion volunteer you’ll be supporting Sense’s fundraising team, playing a vital role in helping Sense to raise funds and awareness to support people with complex disabilities. 

You’ll engage with individuals, local businesses, and regional press to share our mission, organise events, and inspire others to take action. Whether you’re great at planning events, researching opportunities or connecting with your community, this role has something for you.  

This is a flexible role, with the opportunity to volunteer either virtually or in your local community. We are looking for volunteers able to offer a minimum commitment of 2 hours per month. 

We’re looking for people who are passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs and who have a calm, kind and friendly personality.

Please note that you will not be providing care for the people Sense supports as part of this role.

Due to the nature of the volunteer role, we cannot accept applications for anyone under the age of 18.

The four areas of the role:

As a Community Champion, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities, organised into four main role categories. You can choose to get involved in one or more of these areas, and we’ll discuss your preferences with you as part of the application process. Please note, we don’t expect volunteers to take on every area. Instead, we’ll focus on what interests you most and shape the role around your strengths and skills.

Event volunteer:

Support Sense’s Community Fundraising team by:

• Organising your own fundraising events in aid of Sense.
• Supporting and participating in fundraising events at your local Sense services, and shops.
• Supporting with fundraising admin, for example sourcing prizes for Sense fundraisers.

Skills needed:

• Creative, with fresh fundraising ideas and enthusiasm.
• Organised, with the ability help co-ordinate multiple aspects of an event.

Local public relations (PR) volunteer:

Boost Sense’s profile in your local community by:

• Writing content for local press releases.
• Building a network of local media contacts.
• Supporting regional output of national campaigns. 

Skills needed:

• Strong written communication
• Able to follow branding and messaging guidelines.
• Self-motivated and proactive in seeking opportunities. 

Fundraising researcher:

Help boost Sense’s regional income by researching available grants, partnerships and other local connections. Responsibilities include:

• Researching local grants and business partnerships.
• Researching networking events.
• Helping us to source prizes for Sense fundraising events.

Skills needed:

• Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently.
• Organised, ensuring new leads are accurately recorded and shared. 

Community connector:

Act as an ambassador for Sense, attending events across your community to thank supporters, and forge new partnerships.

• Attending cheque presentations, thanking our supporters.
• Giving presentations about Sense to local schools and community groups.
• Engaging with local businesses and groups, to forge new relationships for Sense.

Skills needed:

• Strong communication skills and enjoys public speaking opportunities.
• Well-connected in their local area, and love engaging with people.

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

About Kith & Kids
We provide activities, opportunities, information, and support for people with a learning disability or autism, their parents, and siblings.
For all our projects and activities we are dependent on volunteers.

Our Employability Project
10am to 3pm, Monday and/or Friday during term-time

Our Employment & Life Skills Project (ELSP) helps adults with learning disabilities or autism to access further education, work experience and visits to mainstream community opportunities. 

What you’ll do
You’ll act as a mentor to the members of the group.  You’ll be helping the group(s) develop a range of life skills, things that many of us take for granted.  These include Maths and English skills, independent living, the use of public transport, social skills and even the sourcing of employment. 

For the people in these groups, these things can be very difficult to develop and achieve without regular support. Through regular support and meetings, members and volunteers develop greater trust, skills, and confidence together.

Come along and get involved!

Requirements

What you need
You do not need experience. Full disability awareness training will be provided before you begin volunteering with us.
The only requirements we ask of you are enthusiasm, energy and to be open-minded.
Minimum age for volunteers is 20.

How much time?
The project runs from 10am to 3pm, Mondays and/or Fridays during term-time.
Everyone gets the most out of the project if you come every week for at least a term as you'll build a close relationship with the members you'll have been supporting and will create the most impact.

What we can offer you
ELSP represents a fantastic opportunity for you to share your knowledge and experience built up through a lifetime to a group that is continuing to develop and achieve their targets.

We’ll reimburse your travel expenses and will provide excellent training and lots of helpful support.

By volunteering on our project you'll also:

• Use and develop your skills: time-management, working within a team, problem-solving and adaptability.
• Learn something new, get involved in fun activities with others.
• Increase your confidence.
• Meet like-minded people and make friends.
• Gain experience for (other) work
• Give something back to the community.
• Do something fun and satisfying in your spare time
• Challenge yourself. 

What about training?
Volunteers must attend training and complete a free DBS check before you begin volunteering.

This is a great opportunity to get to know everyone at Kith & Kids: your fellow volunteers, some of our members you will be working with, and also gives the opportunity to develop some new skills and expand your knowledge in our workshops.

Topics we cover include:

• Autism
• Safeguarding
• Creativity & Participation
• Negotiation & Boundaries
   

When do I need to come?

Volunteers must attend training and complete a DBS check before taking part.

We'll be running face-to-face training in north London starting on the 15th February with lots of other dates to choose from.

In the meantime, we'll be meeting volunteers online from mid-January.

Training will take place in North London – once we have met you online for a chat, we will send you confirmation of our training venue details.

Just sign up and you'll receive details of what to do next.

Would you like to become an Ambassador for knus? We've introduced our new arm-chairing volunteer position.

If you're interested arm-chair volunteering (our most flexible, low commitment role) and applying to volunteer at knus, simply read through the information on this page and apply.

• Are you over 18 and living in the UK? You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.
• Do you have a mobile phone or laptop? You can do this role whether you are, whether it be on a sofa or on a plane.
• How much time can you give? As much as you want to do. We are flexible and like to work around you.
• Do you like to learn? We provide training for all volunteers that join us. You'll have access to our courses to help you advance your knowledge and certificates to add to your CV.

How does it work?

In 2025 we launched our arm chair volunteering initiative to help us spread the word about our service and to give people the opportunity to take part in surveys and projects to help us deliver the best mental health support to the UK public.

We'd like to embrace what you love doing, whether that be sharing on socials, proof reading, surveys, sharing experiences or getting involved in our fabulous projects.

Important information:

In order to volunteer for knus as an ambassador, you will need to complete a brief application form and a ID check. A DBS is not required for this role, however, if you wish to progress to another role you may need a disclosure. We do this to ensure of service remains a safe place to volunteer for all. Please do not worry about this, we will help you as much as we can.

Training is provided by us and our training partners. You will be required to attend this training using online conferencing software such as zoom or teams.

Volunteering for Sense

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.

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.

What your role will involve

You’ll get the opportunity to get involved in a wide 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. 

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’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. 

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• 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 can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• 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. 

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

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

Are you a HR professional? Could you give an hour a week to tackle pregnancy and maternity discrimination? Then we need you!

We’re not going to sugar-coat it, things aren’t great for working parents and pregnant women. It can feel frustrating and a bit depressing at times, but by being part of the Pregnant Then Screwed volunteer team, you get to turn that frustration into something positive. In the last year the fantastic volunteers on our Advice Line have spoken to over 5000 women and parents, collectively providing around 40 hours of free support and advice every week. Hundreds of women and parents call our Advice Line every day, but with a small team of volunteers we are only able to answer a fraction of those calls—this is where you come in.

We are looking for brilliant HR professionals who want to help Pregnant Then Screwed tackle the Motherhood Penalty by becoming a Volunteer HR Advisor.

Our Volunteer Advisors give around 1-2 hours a week of their time to the Advice Line. They use their HR knowledge to offer a kind, empathetic support and advice to help people to identify and challenge pregnancy and maternity discrimination in the workplace.

About the role

Role Title: Volunteer HR Advisor 
Location: Home-based (UK)
Reporting To: Head of Support Services

Time Commitment

The Advice Line is open Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm, with various available shifts during those times. We ask volunteers to give 1-2 hours per week on the Advice Line for a minimum of three months. 

Alternative time commitments can be considered and discussed as part of your application, so please do include any information that might be useful in your application form.

Main Role Purpose

The Advice Line HR Advisors play a vital role in providing support and guidance to working parents facing unfair treatment or discrimination in the workplace via our advice line. Volunteers will offer advice, listen empathetically, and provide information about employee rights and available resources. This role is critical in empowering parents to make informed decisions and navigate workplace challenges effectively.

Essential requirements

• Minimum CIPD level 5 Diploma in People Management with one professional reference.
• Knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and policies related to pregnancy, maternity leave, and discrimination.
• Access to a mobile phone/laptop/tablet to receive calls. You will not be charged for calls and your number will not be shared.
• Access to a reliable and secure WIFI connection. Public WIFI is not suitable for this role.
• Excellent active and empathetic listening skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey information clearly and concisely.
• A kind and welcoming telephone manner.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Comfortable using online communication tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer incoming phone calls to the PTS Advice Line from individuals seeking support and advice.
• Listen actively, empathise, and provide HR advice and guidance to support callers with their enquiries.
• Signpost to further information and other support organisations if necessary.
• Make referrals to our legal partner if required.
• Record all details of the call on our CRM system.
• Maintain professionalism in all interactions, adhering to all Pregnant Then Screwed guidelines and policies.

What you can expect from PTS

• The opportunity to use your skill set to tackle the Motherhood Penalty and make a meaningful impact.
• An onboarding and induction period which can be completed at your own pace.
• Support from the PTS staff team and volunteer network.
• Access to our Volunteer Training Hub.
• Opportunities to help us further develop and shape our Support Services.

We are looking for a friendly, patient and kind volunteer befriender to visit a gentleman with a calm soul, in Ickenham. Spending time together might involve sitting in the garden or in his flat, perhaps looking at pictures or magazines of trains, which he is particularly fond of, or going for small walks in the local community joined by one of his carers. He is hard of hearing and doesn’t communicate verbally, so a calm and friendly approach is key. If you’re someone who values quiet connection and meaningful moments, we’d love to hear from you

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

This is a Check in visit role, meaning that your visits are likely to be short - on average 30 minutes or less. Some of the people we visit may be unable to communicate with words. Sometimes the person might choose not to meet with their visitor. Your visit is however very important, and these are some of the things you could be doing on a visit:

• Checking in on their well-being and speak to support staff to get an update on how the person is doing
• You might be able to bring a treat that the person enjoys, like chocolates or fruit.
• Some people we support enjoy sensory experiences so items that will stimulate their senses can also help you create a sense of connection with the person you visit.

Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions.

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

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

As a Mencap visitor you will:

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

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

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

Do you have a keen eye for details and a passion for supporting a great cause?

We’re looking for Volunteer Mystery Shoppers to help us ensure our shops are the best they can be. Your feedback helps us provide Tender Loving Care to our community and ensures every customer visit helps fund our vital work supporting families affected by Leukodystrophy.

What you’ll do 

• Visit as a regular customer at one of our local shops
• Browse the rails and interact with our friendly team.
• Fill out a quick survey about your experience (cleanliness, service and vibe).
• Make a donation of pre loved items

Who we’re looking for:

Someone observant, honest, and reliable who loves a hidden gem.

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Without our volunteer drivers, the Community Food Hub simply does not run.

Food donations, supplies, and resources need to move — and you are the person who makes that happen. As our Volunteer Driver, you'll be a critical part of the operation, collecting from our partners and suppliers and delivering to the Hub so that families across Hackney can be fed.

This is a practical, independent role that puts you at the heart of our supply chain — and the impact you make is felt every single session.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Collect food donations, supplies, and resources from partner organisations and suppliers

• Deliver collections to the Community Food Hub at Fawcett Estate, Clapton

• Communicate clearly with Thomas and the Hub team about collection schedules and any changes

• Handle all food safely and responsibly during transit, following food hygiene guidelines

• Keep a simple record of collections — what was picked up, from where, and when

• Report any concerns or issues during collections immediately to Thomas

• Maintain the vehicle used for collections in a clean and roadworthy condition

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Full, clean UK driving licence

• Confident, safe, and experienced driver

• Reliable and punctual — our food supply depends on you

• Able to lift and carry food boxes and bags safely

• Good communication — able to liaise clearly with the Hub team and partner organisations

• Basic awareness of food hygiene for transit

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience driving a van or larger vehicle

• Previous experience as a delivery driver, volunteer driver, or similar

• Knowledge of Hackney and surrounding areas

• Understanding of food bank or community food logistics

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• A professional reference from our Head of Food & Partnerships and CEO

• Experience in community logistics and food distribution

• The knowledge that without you, families would go without — that matters enormously

• A trusted, valued place within the Children With Voices team

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Ready to step up? This is for people who want more responsibility at the Community Food Hub.

As a Food Co-op Lead Volunteer, you'll be a go-to person on the floor — helping coordinate sessions, supporting other volunteers, and keeping the co-op running smoothly and with pride.

You'll work closely with the Food Hub Manager (Petagaye) and Thomas (Head of Food & Partnerships) — taking ownership of your sessions and helping to build a strong, reliable volunteer team around you.

This role is a real stepping stone — building the skills and track record that open doors to more senior roles in community food work, charity operations, or beyond.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Take the lead during sessions — directing volunteers, managing the floor, keeping things moving

• Support the Food Hub Manager in coordinating session activity and volunteer tasks

• Help with stock management — tracking what is available, what is needed, and communicating this clearly

• Keep simple session records — numbers served, feedback, any issues to flag

• Be the first point of contact for volunteers during sessions

• Ensure all food hygiene, safeguarding, and health and safety standards are maintained

• Support the induction and settling-in of newer volunteers

• Communicate updates and any concerns clearly to the Food Hub Manager after each session

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Some experience of volunteering or working in a team setting

• A natural ability to take initiative and keep things organised

• Confident communicator — able to give clear, calm direction to others

• Reliable, consistent, and able to commit to regular sessions

• Understanding of safeguarding and food hygiene principles

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Previous experience at a food bank, food co-op, or community kitchen

• A food hygiene certificate (Level 1 or 2)

• Experience coordinating or supervising a small team of volunteers

• Knowledge of the Hackney community or similar urban settings

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Hands-on leadership and team coordination experience

• A strong reference from our Food Hub Manager and Head of Food & Partnerships

• A clear pathway towards more senior roles within Children With Voices

• Stock management, session coordination, and operational skills

• The genuine satisfaction of leading a team that feeds and supports Hackney families

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Our Community Food Hub is at the heart of what we do — a warm, welcoming space where families across Hackney access fresh food, support, and community.

As a Volunteer Food Hub Assistant, you'll be a vital part of the team on the ground — helping families access what they need with dignity, warmth, and a smile.

No experience needed. Just heart.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Welcome and assist families arriving at the Food Hub

• Support food sorting, packing, and distribution under the guidance of the Food Hub Manager

• Help maintain a clean, organised, and welcoming Hub environment

• Assist with stock management and recording under supervision

• Treat all families with dignity, respect, and discretion

• Follow all food hygiene and health and safety guidelines

• Report any concerns to the Food Hub Manager immediately

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Friendly, welcoming, and non-judgemental

• Willing to get stuck in with practical tasks

• Reliable — families and the team count on you

• Understanding of basic food hygiene (or willing to complete a short online course)

• Committed to safeguarding and treating all families with dignity

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Previous experience volunteering at a food bank, community kitchen, or similar setting

• Food hygiene certificate (Level 1 or 2)

• Languages spoken in addition to English (Hackney is wonderfully diverse!)

• Experience working with vulnerable families or in a community setting

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• The reward of making a real, immediate difference to families every week

• Food hygiene training and certification support

• A professional reference from our team

• Experience in community food distribution and frontline family support