Volunteer volunteer roles

The Beacon Project is a community-focused programme providing confidential advice, connection, and learning opportunities for residents in the World’s End area. Through weekly coffee mornings, group sessions, and a befriending service that matches individuals with friendly Connectors for regular meet-ups, Beacon helps reduce isolation and build meaningful local relationships. We also offer free, practical support on issues such as benefits and housing, helping people understand their options and access the advice they need. The programme is delivered as a partnership between Family Friends and Nucleus Legal Advice Centre.

About the Role 

As our Community Engagement and Support Volunteer, you will be the first friendly face people meet. This role is perfect for someone approachable, confident, community-minded, and who enjoys connecting with others. You will help create a welcoming, inclusive environment where residents feel comfortable accessing support and getting involved in community activities. 

What You Will Be Doing

As a volunteer, you will welcome residents and help them feel comfortable accessing the project and its services. You will spend time speaking with local people to raise awareness of the Beacon Project, encourage participation, and build positive relationships within the community. The role will involve supporting community events, coffee mornings, and other outreach activities. Using active listening skills, you'll build trust with residents, take the time to understand their needs, and help connect them with the right support where appropriate. Volunteers will also be encouraged to share their ideas and creativity, helping us develop new ways to engage residents and make the project as welcoming and accessible as possible. You will assist with promoting the service through community events, coffee mornings, leaflets, and our social media channels. 

What you will gain from the project 

We are a dynamic and innovative project, passionate about providing wraparound support to the residents of World's End. As a volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference by supporting people in your local community and helping them access the advice, connections, and opportunities they need. You'll be part of a friendly and diverse team of staff and volunteers. You will also have the opportunity to be part of a project that values the ideas and contributions of our volunteers. We value the skills and experiences that volunteers bring, and you'll be encouraged to share your insights into how we can develop the project. This is an opportunity to gain valuable experience, build confidence, develop new skills in community engagement and communication, and be part of a project that is making a difference locally. 

This experience will enhance your CV and support future career development in law, community work, advice services, or other people-focused roles. 

What we are looking for 

You will bring a friendly and approachable manner and the ability to figure out how best to support people. That means helping clients to become independent. Some interactions may involve people with complex needs or stress, so patience and empathy are two of the most important qualities that we are looking for. You will have excellent communication skills and the ability to advocate for and promote the project to the local community. We are looking for someone who can be a community ambassador for our project and a friendly face for residents. 

Our volunteers support residents from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. While most residents speak English, many community members speak other languages, including Arabic, Spanish and French. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, and additional language skills are an advantage, but are not essential. 

Expenses

We want volunteering with us to be accessible to everyone. Reasonable travel and food expenses will be reimbursed. Further information on claiming expenses will be provided during the interview stage.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Beacon Project is committed to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during volunteering to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.

We believe that a diverse team helps us better serve the residents of World's End Estate and strengthens our work within the community.

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

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

About the role:

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

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

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

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

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

Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer 

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

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

Key responsibilities: Till volunteer

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

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

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

Key responsibilities: Key volunteer 

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

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

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

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

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

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

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

Our values

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

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

*Join our friendly team and help make a difference in your community!*

We are looking for enthusiastic and reliable volunteers to support our new café. Whether you're looking to gain experience, meet new people, build confidence, or simply give something back to your local community, we would love to hear from you.

As a Volunteer Café Assistant, you could help with:

* Welcoming and serving customers

* Preparing hot and cold drinks

* Serving cakes and light refreshments

* Keeping the café clean, tidy and welcoming

* Washing up and general cleaning duties We are looking for people who are:

* Friendly and approachable

* Reliable and willing to learn

* Happy working as part of a team

* Able to provide excellent customer service

No previous café experience is required - we will provide any training and support you need.

Looking for a rewarding volunteer role where you can use your people skills and make a real difference?

Join our trading team and help raise vital funds for local hospice care. As a Customer Service Support Volunteer, you'll be the friendly voice that supports donors and customers, helping to arrange collections and deliveries, gather feedback and assist with administrative tasks.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience, develop your skills and become part of a welcoming and supportive team, while helping ensure our supporters receive excellent service every step of the way.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

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

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

About the role:

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

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

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

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

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

Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer 

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

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

Key responsibilities: Till volunteer

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

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

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

Key responsibilities: Key volunteer 

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

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

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

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

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

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

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

Our values

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

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

Our shops rely on a steady flow of stock to help raise vital funds for hospice care, and we're looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to help keep things moving.

As a Volunteer Van Mate, you'll travel with our drivers, delivering and collecting boxes, bags and other stock between our Distribution Centre and shops across Brighton, Hove and the surrounding area. It's a great opportunity to get out and about, be part of a supportive team, and make a real difference to the success of our charity shops.

Available shifts:

Tuesday and Wednesday: Morning or afternoon shifts available Thursday: Full-day availability required, as vans will be visiting our shops further afield

Please note: Collection and delivery schedules can vary, and vans may not always return at the expected time. We therefore ask volunteers to be flexible, particularly at the end of their shift.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Our shops rely on a steady flow of stock to help raise vital funds for hospice care, and we're looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to help keep things moving.

As a Volunteer Van Mate, you'll travel with our drivers, delivering and collecting boxes, bags and other stock between our Distribution Centre and shops across Brighton, Hove and the surrounding area. It's a great opportunity to get out and about, be part of a supportive team, and make a real difference to the success of our charity shops.

When:

Wednesday: Full-day availability required, as vans will be visiting our shops further afield

Friday: Morning shifts available

Monday-Friday: Morning shifts available to help load and unload vans

Please note: Collection and delivery schedules can vary, and vans may not always return at the expected time. We therefore ask volunteers to be flexible, particularly at the end of their shift.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

The Retail Distribution Centre (RDC) is where donations are stored, sorted, cleaned and distributed to the shops. Our volunteers help with household items ranging from crockery, toys, small electrical items, pictures, as well as clothes, shoes and bags. You will become part of the team that will sort, prepare, and recycle donations for resale.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.