Abuse volunteer roles

Event: 2026 Great North Run 

Location: Newcastle

Time commitment: 13th September - Half a day 

What we're looking for

We need enthusiastic and outgoing volunteers who can cheer as loudly as possible for our runners as they go past our cheer point. Every year thousands of people join Team NSPCC to take on a challenge and raise money to help protect children and prevent abuse. Together with other cheerers, you'll make a huge difference to how our  runners feel – helping them to complete a challenge they've spent months preparing for.

What you'll do

You'll be joining other lively and enthusiastic cheerers at our NSPCC cheer point along the route – be ready for cheering, clapping, whooping or even singing. It's a team effort, so you would also help with setting up the cheer point, giving out t-shirts and cheering materials, making sure the area is kept tidy and helping with packing down.

We'll be in touch to arrange with you what time to arrive, where to meet and what to expect. You don't have to be an official cheerer to come along and support team NSPCC. So if you can't make the full-time or to our cheer point, we'd still love to see there, just look up the event time and come along.

What you'll get

Volunteering at our events is a great way to experience the fantastic atmosphere of event days, without the training! The atmosphere at our cheer point is amazing, and we'll provide you with cheering materials and an NSPCC t-shirt so all you have to bring is your enthusiasm.

You'll be accompanied by NSPCC staff to support you and answer any questions you may have. Travel expenses will be covered up to the value of £5.00.

Who's right for the role?

You don't need any prior experience, just a sense of fun, team spirit and enthusiasm. It's important that you're able to spend a few hours outside, spending lots of this time cheering and clapping. You'll also need to stand for a few hours so, if you think this would be difficult, we'd advise bringing along a travel chair. If you are a wheelchair user, please let us know and we can help to identify a suitably accessible cheering point for you.

You'll need to feel comfortable if members of the public ask you about your volunteering role and will simply need to direct them to a member of staff if they have any questions about the NSPCC. We need volunteers with a warm and friendly manner, as the NSPCC is 90 per cent funded by public donations so the impression people have of us is incredibly important.

Please be aware that you'll need to make your own way to your cheer point (we will give you directions).

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood.

MumsAid’s Young Mums service supports expectant and new mothers aged up to the age of 25, offering emotional support, peer connection, advocacy, within a group setting. The group offers a safe, welcoming environment where young mums can share, connect, and learn.

To assist in the organisation and the smooth running of Young MumsAid group sessions. Offering friendly emotional support and guidance to help new mums connect and thrive in their community, ensuring group participants feel safe and welcomed. 

What will you be doing? 

• Assist the group facilitator with planning, organising, and facilitating regular support group meetings for new mothers, ensuring that the meeting space is clean, safe and warm. 

• Greet attendees as they arrive; help new members settle in, show them around, introduce them to others. 

• Be attentive to group dynamics; encourage inclusion and gently facilitate interaction when helpful (for example, helping quieter mums to join in). 

• Provide emotional support and guidance to mothers within the group, ensuring a safe and inclusive atmosphere. 

• Provide tailored one-to-one support to mothers within the group who need additional help, referring to other specialists when necessary. 

• Assist with administrative tasks related to the group, including attendance records, scheduling, and communication with participants. 

• Implement and deliver engaging and relevant content for group sessions including activities, and discussion topics as advised by the facilitator. 

• Participate in debrief or feedback with the facilitator after the group, sharing any insights or concerns. 

• Observe and flag any safeguarding, mental health, or welfare concerns in line with MumsAid Safeguarding and child protection policies (in debrief with facilitator) immediately following the session. 

• With guidance from the facilitator carry out monitoring requirements. 

• Support in liaising with other professionals to increase awareness about the group and to assist in recruitment of suitable group members.

• Respond to any feedback of the group, adapting sessions as necessary as directed by the group facilitator. 

• Distribute educational materials and resources relevant to new motherhood as necessary. 

• Promote and support equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring that the views and voices of MumsAid’s service users are considered in all aspects of group initiatives, including in the discussions of need and impact. 

• Maintain confidentiality and privacy of group members. 

• Attend induction and role-specific training and take part in supervision or feedback sessions. 

What skills and qualities can you bring? 

• Warm, welcoming personality; good at putting others at ease 

• Empathetic, non-judgemental nature 

• Some awareness of mental health challenges (especially maternal mental health) 

• Strong commitment to MumsAid values: empowering, safe, peer-led, inclusive, sustainable 

• Understanding of confidentiality and when safeguarding takes precedence, in line with MumsAid policies and procedures 

• Reliable and able to work well in a team 

• Be committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

• Comfortable and confident around young children 

• Openness to feedback and supervision 

• Willingness to complete volunteer induction 

• Willing to undergo DBS check 

What is in it for me? 

• Induction and regular training, including safeguarding training, mental health first aid and suicide prevention training.

• Ongoing support, supervision, and feedback 

• Reimbursement of travel expenses (with receipts) 

• Make a real difference to the lives of local young mums 

• Gain valuable experience in supporting vulnerable families 

• Gain practical experience in group facilitation and community support. 

• Develop active listening, communication, and safeguarding skills. 

• Be part of a welcoming volunteer team 

• Written references on request 

• A DBS check paid for by MumsAid (If required) 

We are recruiting for a Peer Mentor Volunteer to join our team in Barking & Dagenham; the scope on this opportunity involves….

Title: Peer Mentor Volunteer

Location: Barking & Dagenham
Salary: Volunteering opportunity
Contract type: Minimum of 6 months commitment

Hours: Between 2-3 hours a week (days can be agreed)

We are looking for a committed and compassionate Peer Mentor Volunteer to join our service in Barking and Dagenham supporting women who have experienced domestic abuse. This role offers the opportunity to use your own experience, empathy, and insight to empower survivors as they rebuild their confidence, independence, and sense of safety.

As a Peer Mentor Volunteer, you will provide supportive, trauma‑informed mentoring to service users, You’ll work closely with staff to ensure a safe, appropriate, and empowering environment for survivors. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, lived experience relevant to the role, the ability to maintain boundaries, and a genuine commitment to supporting women in their recovery journey.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of women at a crucial point in their journey. As a Peer Mentor Volunteer, you will gain valuable experience, build your own confidence and skills, and contribute to a supportive team that is passionate about creating positive change.

Closing date: 9.00am on 22 July 2026

Interview date: 31 July 2026

Benefits

Refuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff. More details of our benefits can be found in Job Information Pack.

As a Meet and Greet Volunteer, you'll help create a warm, welcoming environment for people using our services. Offer a friendly chat, a listening ear, and support to help people feel valued, connected, and less alone. If you're empathetic and approachable, we'd love to hear from you.

What you will be doing

Greeting visitors, providing a safe and friendly environment, and “checking in and chatting” with service users.

Offering beverages to our visitors while maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen and service areas.

Provide emotional support, active listening, and mental health assistance to individuals in distress.

Ensure the environment is safe, maintain accurate records and adhere to safeguarding, food hygiene and GDPR

The skills you need

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, a non-judgmental attitude, and the ability to listen.

Able to create a welcoming and inclusive setting that encourages involvement and openness.

Approachable, respectful, and supportive with the ability to remain calm in interactions while demonstrating an empathetic and person-centred approach.

What's in it for you

Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications

Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!

Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

Oxfam Till Volunteers Barnard Castle Shop, 1 Horsemarket, Barnard Castle, County Durham DL12 8LY

Do you enjoy meeting people and chatting?

Then this volunteer opportunity would suit you.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide

full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.

When:

· Monday to Saturday and Sundays – Am/Pm – 4 hours or just even 2 hours we are very flexible.

What you will be doing:

· Chatting to Customers - giving great customer service on the till.

· Operating the Till

· Keeping the shop floor clean and tidy

· Accepting donations from members of the public

· Assisting with stocking the shop floor

· Full Training and support are given for this role – no prior experience necessary.

What's in it for you:

· Lunch expenses paid for 5 hours or more volunteered in one shift up to £7.00

· Travel expenses are paid when travelling by bus, parking expenses are paid if driving and petrol expenses are paid at the discretion of the Shop Manager.

· Learn new skills, gain experience, build confidence, and meet new people and make new friends.

Disclaimer: Additional Information

· We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

· We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

· We do ask for one professional reference, however if this is not possible, we have a Reference Risk Assessment process form you can complete with the Shop Manager instead.

· Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

·  We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

Get involved today and join our amazing team of volunteers who are offering a lifeline to some of the most isolated people across London and the southeast. The digital world has changed at such a fast-paced leaving many feeling disconnected due to the lack of technical ability and knowledge. Help people to stay connected, improve their financial health, employability, and learn how to access much needed services and resources online! We’d love to find a resident in Haringey, but this is not essential for the role.

What you will be doing

• Supporting people to gain digital skills and knowledge on a computer, tablet and smart phone via one to one or in small group sessions
• Supporting people to use digital apps, emails, search the internet, online shopping and set up online accounts
• Supporting people to learn the skills to keep in touch with family and friends, such a video call and messaging
• Support individuals to agree and aspire on the steps/ goals they would like to achieve in the sessions
• Lead on the logistics and organisation of the sessions alongside the staff team
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback, and report any concerns to the staff team

The skills you need

• Confident using digital skills
• Willingness and interest in facilitating one to one and group session on basic digital skills
• Good communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

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

As a Community Outreach Volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in helping people in Havering know where to turn when they need urgent mental health support. You’ll be out and about in the community spreading the word about the Havering Crisis Café — chatting to local people, connecting with community centres, faith groups and local organisations, and sharing information through leaflets and posters. This is a great role for someone confident, friendly and passionate about making support more visible and accessible in the community.

What you will be doing

• Promoting the Havering Crisis Café within the local community
• Visiting community centres, libraries, GP surgeries, faith settings and other local spaces
• Handing out leaflets and displaying posters
• Helping build positive relationships with local organisations and community groups
• Feeding back any insights, questions or community needs to the team

The skills you need

• Friendly, approachable and confident talking to new people
• An interest in mental health, wellbeing and community support
• Good communication skills and a respectful, non judgemental approach

What's in it for you

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

What we're looking for:

We need enthusiastic and outgoing volunteers who can cheer as loudly as possible for our runners as they go past our cheer points. Every year thousands of people join Team NSPCC to take on a challenge and raise money to help protect children and prevent abuse. Together with other cheerers, you'll make a huge difference to how our runners feel – helping them to complete a challenge they've spent months preparing for.

What you'll do:

You'll be joining other lively and enthusiastic cheerers at one of our NSPCC cheer points along the route – be ready for cheering, clapping, whooping or even singing. It's a team effort, so you would also help with setting up the cheer point, giving out t-shirts and cheering materials, making sure the area is kept tidy and helping with packing down.

We have several cheer points along the course, with staggered start times. We'll be in touch to arrange with you what time to arrive, where to meet and what to expect. You don't have to be an official cheerer to come along and support team NSPCC. So if you can't make the full-time or to one of our cheer points, we'd still love to see there, just look up the event time and come along.

What you'll get:

Volunteering at our events is a great way to experience the fantastic atmosphere of event days, without the training! The atmosphere at our cheer points is amazing, and we'll provide you with cheering materials and an NSPCC t-shirt so all you have to bring is your enthusiasm.

You'll be accompanied by NSPCC staff to support you and answer any questions you may have. Refreshments will be provided at the cheer points, and travel expenses will be covered up to the value of £5.

Who's right for the role?

You don't need any prior experience, just a sense of fun, team spirit and enthusiasm. It's important that you're able to spend a few hours outside, spending lots of this time cheering and clapping. You'll also need to stand for a few hours so, if you think this would be difficult, we'd advise bringing along a travel chair. If you are a wheelchair user, please let us know and we can help to identify a suitably accessible cheering point for you.

You'll need to feel comfortable if members of the public ask you about your volunteering role and will simply need to direct them to a member of staff if they have any questions about the NSPCC. We need volunteers with a warm and friendly manner, as the NSPCC is 90 per cent funded by public donations so the impression people have of us is incredibly important.

Please be aware that you'll need to make your own way to your cheer point (we will give you directions).

We can discuss which cheering post would be most convenient for you.

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood.

Are you passionate about standing alongside women who have been pushed to the margins and confident you can help bring in the funding that keeps that work alive?

Women on the Frontline Ministries (WOFM) is a registered charity supporting women who have experienced domestic abuse, sexual exploitation through street-based prostitution, trafficking and other vulnerabilities. We offer outreach, a weekly drop-in, casework and relationship-based support to women who are too often neglected and stigmatised. We are looking for an experienced, motivated volunteer fundraiser to help us grow our income, raise awareness of the women we serve, and make sure this work can continue.

About us

WOFM exists to bring dignity, safety and hope to vulnerable and exploited women in East London. Our work is practical and relational: meeting women where they are, building trust over time, and walking with them towards a more stable future. We are a small, dynamic team making a real and lasting difference and our reach depends on the generosity of those who fund it.

The role

As our Volunteer Fundraiser, you will help shape and deliver our fundraising strategy and turn it into real income. You will be a key part of securing the resources that sustain and grow our frontline support for women. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys both planning and doing — and who wants their skills to count for something that matters.

What you'll do

• Help develop and deliver WOFM’s fundraising strategy and annual income goals.

• Research and identify funding opportunities — grants, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and community giving.

• Support the writing and submission of compelling funding applications and proposals.

• Help plan and run fundraising initiatives, appeals and awareness campaigns.

• Build and nurture relationships with donors, supporters and local partners.

• Help raise the profile of WOFM and the plight of the women we serve.

• Work closely with the Board and team to track progress and report on results.

What we're looking for

• Experience in fundraising, bid writing, income generation or a closely related field.

• A genuine passion for our cause and the women at the heart of our work.

• Strong written and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to make the ask.

• A strategic mindset paired with the drive to follow through and get things done.

• Self-motivated, organised and able to work both independently and as part of a team.

• An understanding of, or willingness to work within, a values-led charitable setting.

What you'll gain

• The chance to use your skills for a cause that genuinely changes lives.

• A meaningful role with real influence over the future of our work.

• The support of a warm, committed team who care deeply about what they do.

• Experience and connections within the charity and fundraising sector.

Practical details

• Type: Voluntary, unpaid with reasonable agreed expenses reimbursed.

• Time commitment: Flexible, approximately 4-8 ours per month, by arrangement.

• Location: Remote, with some involvement in East London by agreement.

If you would like to use your fundraising experience to help marginalised women find dignity, safety and hope, we would love to hear from you.

Event: 2026 Royal Parks Half Marathon

Location: London

Time commitment: 11th October - Half a day 

What we're looking for

We need enthusiastic and outgoing volunteers who can cheer as loudly as possible for our runners as they go past our cheer points. Every year thousands of people join Team NSPCC to take on a challenge and raise money to help protect children and prevent abuse. Together with other cheerers, you'll make a huge difference to how our runners feel – helping them to complete a challenge they've spent months preparing for.

What you'll do

You'll be joining other lively and enthusiastic cheerers at  our NSPCC cheer point along the route – be ready for cheering, clapping, whooping or even singing. It's a team effort, so you would also help with setting up the cheer point, giving out t-shirts and cheering materials, making sure the area is kept tidy and helping with packing down.

We have one cheer point along the course, with staggered start times. We'll be in touch to arrange with you what time to arrive, where to meet and what to expect. You don't have to be an official cheerer to come along and support team NSPCC. So if you can't make the full-time or to one of our cheer points, we'd still love to see there, just look up the event time and come along.

What you'll get

Volunteering at our events is a great way to experience the fantastic atmosphere of event days, without the training! The atmosphere at our cheer point is amazing, and we'll provide you with cheering materials and an NSPCC t-shirt so all you have to bring is your enthusiasm.

You'll be accompanied by NSPCC staff to support you and answer any questions you may have. Refreshments will be provided at the cheer points, and travel expenses will be covered up to the value of £5.

Who's right for the role?

You don't need any prior experience, just a sense of fun, team spirit and enthusiasm. It's important that you're able to spend a few hours outside, spending lots of this time cheering and clapping. You'll also need to stand for a few hours so, if you think this would be difficult, we'd advise bringing along a travel chair. If you are a wheelchair user, please let us know and we can help to identify a suitably accessible cheering point for you.

You'll need to feel comfortable if members of the public ask you about your volunteering role and will simply need to direct them to a member of staff if they have any questions about the NSPCC. We need volunteers with a warm and friendly manner, as the NSPCC is 90 per cent funded by public donations so the impression people have of us is incredibly important.

Please be aware that you'll need to make your own way to your cheer point (we will give you directions).

We can discuss which cheering post would be most convenient for you.

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood.

�� Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits �� Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Vice-Chairperson (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Responsibilities:

• Support the Chairperson and act in their absence.

• Ensure all board decisions are actioned efficiently.

• Oversee special committees and task forces.

• Assist with performance evaluations of executive staff.

• Provide leadership continuity during transitions.

Requirements:

• Strong leadership and organisational skills.

• Prior experience in management or board governance.

Benefits:

• Executive leadership recognition.

• Key role in succession planning and governance strategy.

• Access to leadership networks and visibility opportunities.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

VSO – Uzbekistan Education Project

International Volunteering Opportunity: English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Teacher (Aug 2026 – June 2027)

About VSO: 

VSO is a global development organisation that uses the power of volunteering to tackle poverty and inequality. Rather than providing aid, VSO works in partnership with governments and local institutions to strengthen skills and systems so that sustainable change continues long after a project ends. Volunteers are placed at the centre of community-led development to empower the most marginalised people.  

Project Summary

The Government of Uzbekistan is prioritising improved English language learning across the education system as part of national development reforms. In partnership with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, VSO will place experienced and passionate volunteer teachers in public secondary schools to strengthen English language teaching and learning outcomes.  

Why this opportunity is unique?  

This is more than a teaching role — it is an opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful and lasting impact on education reform

• Gain valuable international experience in a multicultural environment.

• Be part of a global movement for positive change

• By supporting teachers and students to reach their full potential, you will leave a legacy that continues long after your placement ends.

Role Summary – EFL Teacher (English Language-Teacher)

Location: Public secondary schools in Uzbekistan Duration: 10–11 months (August 2026 – June 2027)  

Key responsibilities include:

• Delivering interactive English classes to students aged 11–16

• Mentoring and coaching local teachers

• Leading extracurricular language activities and English clubs

• Integrating technology and modern teaching methodologies in the classroom  

Eligibility Criteria

• Graduate in Education / TESOL / Linguistics or related fields

• Final-year undergraduate or master’s student (who completes the course by July 2026)

• Fluent in English language (minimum C1 level)

• CELTA / TEFL / TESOL / DELTA preferred

Allowance, Costs & Support

There are no programme fees for volunteers. Fully funded project, all cost covered by VSO, including:

• Monthly living allowance equivalent to a local teacher’s salary

• Private accommodation near the workplace

• Return international flights, Visa, vaccinations & DBS -onboarding costs

• Comprehensive medical insurance and 24/7 mental health support

• Access to VSO’s global learning platform and continuous professional development

• In-country support from VSO for the full duration of the placement  

VSO has zero tolerance of abuse and exploitation of vulnerable people. We will expect all our employees/ volunteers to commit to protecting children, young people and vulnerable adults from harm and abide by our safeguarding policy.

All successful candidates will have enhanced criminal background check done during onboarding 

Application Closing Date: 7th June 2026

Purpose of the Role

The Fundraising & Grants Volunteer will support Disability Africa in identifying aligned funding opportunities and preparing clear, well-structured grant applications. The role connects donor research with proposal development, helping to strengthen the organisation’s funding pipeline in line with programme priorities and values.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and identify trusts, foundations, corporates, and other grant-making bodies aligned with disability inclusion, play, education, and community-based development.
• Assess eligibility criteria, funding priorities, grant size, and strategic fit.
• Prepare concise donor briefs summarising alignment and recommended next steps.
• Maintain and update a simple tracking system (deadlines, application stages, reporting requirements).
• Draft and edit sections of grant applications.
• Adapt core organisational content to specific funder guidelines and word limits.
• Support budget alignment in collaboration with the team.
• Contribute to building a reusable content library (programme summaries, impact statements, organisational descriptions).

What We Are Looking For

• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Excellent written English.
• Ability to synthesise complex information clearly and concisely.
• Structured, detail-oriented approach.
• Ability to work independently with guidance from the team.
• Comfortable integrating feedback into draft applications.

Approach and Mindset

• Alignment with Disability Africa’s vision and Social Model of Disability.
• Commitment to accurate, ethical, and respectful representation.
• Sensitivity to power dynamics in funding relationships.
• Respect for partner-led priorities rather than donor-driven agendas.
• Commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities for disabled children and young people.

Desirable (but not essential)

• Experience in fundraising, philanthropy, CSR, or NGO work.
• Previous exposure to trust and foundation applications.
• Familiarity with UK funding landscapes.
• Experience working with or alongside grassroots organisations.

Time Commitment

Flexible; typically 4–6 hours per week.
Minimum commitment of 12 months.
The role can be adapted to the volunteer’s availability and strengths.

What the Volunteer Will Gain

• Hands-on experience in live funding pipelines.
• Exposure to real grant applications and funder criteria.
• Insight into how strategy translates into organisational sustainability.
• Professional reference upon successful completion of the role.

Caritas Young Parents’ Service offers accommodation-based support to young parents and their children who have experienced chaotic and/or unsafe lifestyles. We aim to keep families together and equip them with the tools they need to move on to independent living. We provide a safe space for parents to confidently parent their child.

We show parents how to play with their babies and toddlers to help them to develop new skills through guided play sessions and story times. We run skills and wellbeing sessions for the parents to help them develop independent living skills, such as how to cook on a budget.

We are excited to advertise for a new volunteer that can help deliver these activities, so if you have any skills that you are not utilising, you might be just who we are looking for.

What you will be doing

• Supporting the staff-led delivery of creative age-appropriate activities for the children, wellbeing-focused sessions for the parents and getting involved with the activities and sessions organised by staff.
• Supporting staff led activities focused on day-to-day tasks that will increase confidence, such as basic cookery sessions
• Empathising with young people experiencing parenthood for the first time.
• Volunteers are required to follow all Caritas safeguarding, confidentiality and professional boundaries policies at all times. Any concerns about the welfare of any of the children or adults who use the services must be acted upon in accordance with our Safeguarding Policy.
• Volunteers be responsible to the Service Manager who would organise their induction and ongoing supervision.
• Volunteers would be expected to ensure the confidentiality of the people who use the service, and not share any information relating to them outside of the service team.
• Volunteers will be working alongside a member of staff - either the service manager or a project worker. Once a volunteer is confident and the manager is happy with their approach then they may be left to complete a play session, for example, but they would not be working alone in the building.
• This role requires a commitment of 5 to 10 hours per week. The role is open ended not fixed term.

The skills you need

• Empathy
• Good listener
• Good communication skills
• Patience
• Respect
• Some residents may have experienced trauma, homelessness, abuse or family breakdown. Volunteers should be comfortable working in a sensitive and supportive environment.

What's in it for you

• Opportunity to use your experience and skills to support people in your communities to whom your support matters.
• Growing confidence and esteem
• Full induction and training
• Further training opportunities

Disclaimer

Please read before applying: As part of the safer recruitment process, we will be requesting an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and two references for this role. Having a criminal record is not necessarily a bar to volunteering within the organisation. This will depend on the nature of the position and the circumstances and the background of the offences. Prior to starting with us you will be required to complete mandatory online training modules.