Advocacy volunteer roles

SolidariTee is an international charity run and led entirely by volunteers who are students and young people. We're working to make lasting change in the way refugees and other people forced to flee persecution and violence are treated, through a combination of awareness-raising, advocacy, and fundraising to support grassroots NGOs providing vital refugee legal aid and mental health support.

We are currently looking for volunteers to join our Central and Leadership teams!

Positions on our Central Team:

• Events Officers
• Partnerships Officers
• Publicity Officers (social media team)
• Digital Education Officers (social media team)

Our Central Team includes students and other young people from around the UK and works together to coordinate SolidariTee’s core functions and organise opportunities to bring our volunteers and supporters together. This includes organising our annual conference, creating content for our central Instagram page @teesofsolidarity, and developing partnerships with uni societies, student groups, fashion shows, balls and more!

Positions on our Leadership Team:

• Secretary
• Social Media Manager
• Events Lead
• Partnerships Lead

Our Leadership Team provides overall coordination and oversight to the activities of our Central Team and Regional Teams, and it is a great opportunity to be involved with leading the direction of the SolidariTee movement on a national level.

Shape the UK’s leading independent voice for R&D. CaSE is seeking a Chair who will channel their passion for science, engineering and wider R&D into the role, and bring fresh perspectives to CaSE’s exciting programme of work.

About CaSE

Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE) exists to advocate for UK R&D, for the benefit of lives and livelihoods.

We are a charity and the leading independent voice for UK R&D, supported by a diverse membership of businesses, universities, professional bodies, research charities and individuals. Our members span discovery research, science, engineering and innovation across the public, private, and charitable sectors. 

We collaborate with our members, partners and the public to lend our expert voice to decisions about R&D and develop non-partisan solutions that can help R&D to thrive. 

CaSE is a small organisation that has a big impact. Recent projects include a horizon-scanning exercise to map the trade-offs facing policymakers and R&D organisations, an innovative campaign to raise political awareness of R&D during the Holyrood and Senedd elections, and a landmark national tracker study to monitor public attitude to R&D. CaSE also maintains an active media presence and hosts events, such as our flagship Annual Lecture.

The opportunity

As Chair, you will be tasked with getting the most out of CaSE’s talented Board members and strategically channelling this to support CaSE’s small but highly productive team.

While the role is not remunerated, trustees can claim reasonable travel expenses.

The appointment would run for three years from November 2026 (when the current Chair reaches the end of their term), with the option of a second term. 

The expected time commitment is ~10 hours per month, including quarterly Board meetings, committee work and external representation.

The role

CaSE is entering an exciting new phase, with plans to further expand its impact, profile and income. The Chair leads the Board of Trustees in fulfilling its fiduciary, statutory, strategic, and advocacy responsibilities. 

While candidates will be expected to have a broad range of relevant skills, the deep expertise and commitment of the wider CaSE Board offers space for in-role development to strengthen any specific skills gaps.

Please see CaSE's website for a full list of responsibilities for the role

Who we’re seeking

Successful candidates can come from any background or sector, but will be able to demonstrate:

• Passion for science, engineering and wider R&D, and the benefits this activity can bring to lives and livelihoods across the UK.
• High integrity, independence of judgment, and a commitment to supporting CaSE to maximise the organisation’s impact against its mission.
• A record of ambitious and supportive and leadership in a complex organisation.
• Proven experience chairing a governing board or similar governance forum, and exceptional facilitation skills that can channel diverse views towards consensus.
• Personal profile and connections at the highest levels with communities that can help CaSE fund and achieve its mission, including R&D and political audiences.
• Appetite, capacity and credibility to be an ambassador for CaSE at events and meetings, the majority of which occur in London.

Application process

CaSE believes that a diverse Board is a more effective Board. With this in mind, we particularly welcome applications from groups underrepresented on our Board.

To apply, please follow the instructions on the CaSE website - submitting by 23:59 on Tuesday 1 September 2026.

We are looking for volunteers to act as Sighted Guides at our Annual Conference on the 19th September at Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre. Sighted Guiding is a simple and effective way of supporting blind and partially sighted attendees to move safely and confidently throughout the day.

As a Sighted Guide, you may be asked to:

• Meet and welcome attendees on arrival.
• Guide attendees between the train station and the conference venue.
• Guide individuals between conference rooms, refreshment areas, lunch areas, and other facilities.
• Assist attendees with fetching food and drinks during breaks and lunch.
• Provide information about the venue layout and surroundings.
• Support attendees to ensure they have a positive, inclusive, and accessible conference experience.

No previous experience is required, and guidance will be provided before the event. By volunteering, you will play an important role in helping all delegates participate fully and enjoy the conference.

Please note: Lunch will be provided for all volunteers and reasonable travel expenses will be covered.

Humanist Climate Action is a volunteer-led network of Humanists UK members and supporters committed to redefining lifestyles and campaigning for policies that promote low-carbon, ethical, and sustainable living in the light of the degeneration of the Earth’s climate and biodiversity. We aim to bring humanists together to facilitate individual and collective action on these issues.

The Steering Committee is responsible for planning and executing HCA’s work, in line with its aims and policy. The Committee is appointed by Humanists UK’s Director of Human Rights & Advocacy. Its members report to the Chair, and as a whole it is supported and overseen by Humanists UK’s Human Rights & Advocacy Administrator.

We are seeking a dedicated and driven Social Media Lead to join our Committee, to assist in delivering the activities of Humanist Climate Action.

The role will primarily support the committee’s social media output across all its channels, including custom feed posts, uploading images and videos, monitoring threads, posting group updates and news stories, as well as highlighting calls to action.

We are currently on the hunt from some volunteers to help support our weekly Speak Out Central drop-ins.

Speak Out Central is a weekly drop-in for people with learning disabilities in the centre of Brighton, helping to prevent loneliness and social isolation. People get together over a cuppa at main office at the Brighthelm Centre between 1:30pm and 5:30pm every Tuesday. We aim to support people to be more involved in their local community and make connections with others at the drop-in and the wider community in the city.

The role involves:

• To help facilitate weekly drop-in meetings with other volunteers and staff
• Work with people with Learning disabilities to become more independent and try new things away from the drop-in
• Support people with learning disabilities to develop supportive relationships and friendships
• Support people with learning disabilities to feel more confident accessing mainstream services.
• Attend induction training and ongoing training as required.
• To work independently as needed and adhere to the Speak Out Codes of Practice for Volunteers and Advocates at all times
• Support people in the decisions they make but not make them for them.
• To challenge discrimination and help people to have their rights upheld.
• To identify at risk clients and follow Speak Out’s safeguarding process if needed

NYAS' Side by Side care leaver programme supports care-experienced young people leaving care. When young people leave care, they often struggle with isolation, homelessness, and living independently because they are often thrown into independence way before they're ready. Side by Side bridges the gap between care and adulthood. We want to give young people the support they need to really succeed, but just as importantly, we want to make them feel confident in knowing that somebody is by their side.

There's a lot you can do as a volunteer for Side by Side, including assisting young people with their transition to adulthood, discovering their aspirations and goals, and generally supporting and signposting them to help achieve these.

You do not need any special qualifications, but we are looking for dedicated people of all ages who are comfortable with mentoring and being a good role model for a  young person who may have experienced difficult times during their childhood. We ask that you are able to commit to a few hours each week for a minimum of 1 year.

This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience and meet new people.

· You will have an hour or two to spare each week for the minimum of 1 year

• You will have good communication skills
• You will receive training in boundaries, goal setting and reflective check ins.
• You will enjoy meeting with others and supporting them to achieve their goals.
• You will receive all the support and training you need to make the most of your role.
• Volunteers will be supported in their own professional development and you will gain experience that could help in your future career goals.
• Expenses will be reimbursed.

Please note: This opportunity is for people over the age of 25 years.

Volunteer Coach

Transitions supports adults who may be feeling isolated, overwhelmed or going through periods of change. We work alongside people to build confidence, develop skills, and support independent living through a mix of workshops, coaching and community connection.

What you’ll be doing

As a Volunteer Wellbeing Coach, you’ll:

• Meet your client (initially with a staff member) to build trust and agree goals
• Provide weekly 1-hour coaching sessions (up to 6 months)
• Support clients to set goals, create action plans and review progress
• Help people use workshop tools and self-help resources in everyday life
• Encourage confidence-building and independent decision-making
• Support access to local services, groups, clubs and community activities
• Signpost to specialist support and accompany clients to first appointments if needed
• Help reduce isolation by supporting social connection and community engagement
• Encourage participation in Transitions workshops and group sessions

What we’re looking for

You don’t need professional experience — just the right values and approach:

• Friendly, approachable and reliable
• Good listener with strong communication skills
• Empathetic and non-judgemental
• Open-minded and comfortable working with people from all backgrounds
• Interested in personal development and supporting others
• Able to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Positive, patient and encouraging

What you’ll get

• Full training and ongoing support
• Experience in coaching, mentoring and wellbeing support
• Opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life
• Meet new people and be part of a supportive team
• The chance to help reduce isolation and build stronger communities
• Expenses (if applicable) and full guidance throughout

One25 is a Bristol-based charity, specialising in supporting women to break free from
street sex-work, addiction and other life-controlling issues and build new, independent
lives. We provide night outreach (7 sessions weekly), a Hub and Casework, giving personcentred
support and advocacy to around 240 women each year.

One25’s outreach service is often how women first make contact with us, meeting us on
our fully equipped outreach van. Three volunteers, one an experienced team leader, go
out on the van at night and meet women’s basic needs by providing nutritious food, first
aid, warm clothing, condoms, safety alarms etc. They provide the chance to talk and get
advice in a safe space and encourage women to get more in-depth help by visiting our
Hub or seeing a caseworker.

We are looking for volunteers to join our accelerated pathway to becoming a Van Team
Leader. Van Team Leaders are responsible for leading volunteers during shifts,
coordinating with One25 staff and external services, and making decisions in crisis
situations.

Chair of Advisory Board – cultural leadership, strategic insight, advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration

Lancaster Arts is a dynamic and ambitious combined arts organisation, embedded within Lancaster University and supported as an NPO by Arts Council England. Its programme spans contemporary performance, music, visual art, commissions, artist residencies, Creative Gatherings and public programmes across the Nuffield Theatre, the Great Hall, the Peter Scott Gallery, campus spaces and locations across the wider region. Almost half of its programme takes place outside its venues, often in unexpected places including natural settings, community centres, carparks and historic buildings.

With a long-established reputation for the creation, development and presentation of cutting-edge contemporary arts, Lancaster Arts brings together artists, researchers, students, communities and audiences through work that is socially engaged, internationally relevant and rooted in the organisation’s vision of a world where social and environmental justice drives change.

Lancaster Arts is now seeking a new Chair of the Lancaster Arts Board (LAB) to provide strong, collaborative and values-led leadership. LAB is an Advisory Board, which provides strategic guidance, advocacy and critical support, helping Lancaster Arts strengthen its visibility, connections and influence across Lancaster University, the cultural sector and civic life, while supporting the organisation to remain responsive, resilient and relevant in a complex environment.

To succeed in this role, you’ll bring:

• A strong track record of leadership in the cultural sector or a closely related field
• A strategic outlook and the ability to navigate the intersection of Higher Education, the arts and wider civic and cultural relationships
• Skilled facilitation and communication, with the confidence to convene diverse stakeholders and support inclusive, purposeful Board discussion

You will also share Lancaster Arts’ commitment to inclusion, environmental responsibility and socially engaged practice, and bring the credibility, networks and enthusiasm to act as a public advocate and connector for Lancaster Arts.

Please see the candidate pack for full details.

• Closing date: Thursday 13th August 2026
• Interviews with Lancaster Arts: from 1st September 2026 onwards
• Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by EOD on 20th August prior to shortlist submission on 21st August.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law

Charisma is committed to inclusive and accessible recruitment processes. If you have any reasonable adjustments or wish to apply for this role under the Disability Confident Scheme, please contact our Operations Team. Charisma will ensure all candidates who disclose that they wish to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and that meet the minimum criteria for the role will receive an opportunity to interview with the Charisma Consultant representing the vacancy.

MHFA England are seeking a Non-Executive Director to assist in agreeing and supporting MHFA England’s strategy, ensuring the delivery of our overall purpose and mission as a social enterprise.

In addition, the Non-Executive Director will Chair the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, supporting the development of a thriving membership community.

Reasonable travel expenses are covered.

Principal duties

1. Overseeing the delivery of MHFA England’s strategy and performance
2. Protecting the long-term sustainability of MHFA England
3. Safeguarding the reputation of MHFA England
4. Representing MHFA England at collaboration and network events, and contributing to the development of organisational relationships

Additional Chair of the Association of Mental Health First Aiders duties:

1. Providing strategic leadership to the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, ensuring it is an effective, representative and influential voice for MHFAiders
2. Championing the value of Mental Health First Aiders
3. Acting as a visible ambassador for the Association with members, employers, partners, policymakers and the media

Person specification

• Previous experience chairing Boards or Board committees
• Knowledge of workplace mental health policy and best practice across different sectors
• Be a current, accredited Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) with a strong personal commitment to improving mental health in the workplace
• Strong communication skills, including public speaking and presenting to a range of audiences
• Experience of growing and engaging membership communities
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring the Association reflects and represents the breadth of its membership
• An awareness of economic and political changes that may impact MHFA England
• Sound judgement around corporate governance, financial strategy risk, and opportunity
• A commitment to social enterprise and MHFA England’s values and culture
• Collaborative, solutions-focused and able to provide healthy and supportive challenge
• Curious and embraces innovation
• Desirable attributes include:
  • Media-trained, or able to demonstrate experience of broadcast, print or digital media engagement, with the confidence to act as a visible public champion for the Association and its members
  • Experience of chairing a membership organisation, professional association or volunteer-led network
  • An established professional network within HR, wellbeing, health and safety, occupational health or related sectors

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility 

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.  

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website. 

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility 

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way! 

Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board! 

Independent Visitor Volunteer 

Our Independent Visitor Volunteers provide consistent and supportive relationships to children ad young people in care, offering emotional support, companionship, and guidance through shared activities and time together.The Independent Visitor plays a vital role in helping the young people build confidence and feel secure while enhancing their personal, social, and cultural development. 

As an Independent Visitor Volunteer in England, you might: 

• support the child/young person to experience enriching activities that contribute to their personal and cultural development

• engage in activities such as pursuing hobbies, meeting for meals, or socialising in a community setting

• listen to and support the young person, fostering a sense of safety and trust

• help the young person develop social skills and increase their involvement in their community

• develop a positive and lasting relationship, ensuring the young person feels valued and supported 

You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that the Independent Visitor Volunteers generally volunteer at evening and weekends due to the children’s and young person’s availability. 

Safeguarding Commitment Statement 

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice. 

ED&I Statement 

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential. 

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options. 

To find out more click “Apply Now”.  

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Group Coordinator, you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group reaches out to people affected by MS.  The role is varied, and will enable you  to further develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills. 

What you’ll be doing: 

Co-ordinating your group   

• Leading other Coordinating Team volunteers to organise activities 
• Working with the Finance Volunteer and the Coordinating Team to agree, approve and monitor the group’s budget 
• Creating strong links with local MS Services andother MS Society groups, as well as local voluntary and community sector partners 
• Working with staff and volunteers to develop and monitor services or activities that meet the needs of the MS community 
• Ensuring group compliance with MS Society policies and practices 
• Leading the group to welcome all of the MS community Recruiting and supporting volunteers 
• Identifying group recruitment needs and advertising vacancies
• Shortlisting and interviewing applicants 
• Welcoming new volunteers and introducing them to the group. 
• Coordinating the ongoing support of group volunteers 
• Responding to any concerns with volunteers at the earliest opportunity and liaising with staff 
 

What you get in return:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network 
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability 
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives 
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work 
• You’ll have an induction to your role and support from your Volunteer Manager 
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities 
• You’ll be reimbursed for any related expenses while carrying out your role 

When you join us as a volunteer, you’ll be part of a community of passionate people coming together to improve people’s lives and work towards our vision for a world free from the effects of MS. 

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

 Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

Last year 786,574 people were offered information and support from Victim Support. As a Service Delivery Volunteer you will provide specialist support services for people affected by crime.

Why volunteer with us?

·  Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and/or alongside staff.

·  Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.

·  Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 1,500 volunteers and staff.

·  Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.

 Volunteering with Victim Support in Staffordshire

As a Volunteer in Staffordshire your role will include:

·  Making a real impact by helping people affected by crime feel safer, supported, and empowered.

·  Building valuable skills and confidence through specialist training in safeguarding, risk assessment, and supporting victims of crime.

·  Representing Victim Support at local events and community activities, raising awareness and connecting with people who need help.

·  Networking with local organisations and community partners, gaining insight into multi-agency working and referral pathways.

What do we ask of you?

In order to join us as a Service Delivery Volunteer, you must:

·  Be 18 years of age or over.

·  Be able to volunteer for at least 6 hours per week, for at least 12 months.

·  Undertake training over a 10-week period – this includes 7 virtual training days as well as completing a workbook and online learning modules.

·  Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.

·  Be able to provide two satisfactory references.

·  Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.

Expenses

·  All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.

Diversity Matters

·  VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

·  VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

·  We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.