84 Arts culture heritage volunteer roles

Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a small, friendly charity based in Southwark, providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills.

We’re currently looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Drama Class Volunteer to support our weekly Friday afternoon sessions (1.30-3.30), held at St Faith’s Community Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations). This position would begin in September 2026.

About The Role

We're looking for someone with a background in drama to support our tutor in delivering accessible and fun drama sessions for a small group of adults with learning disabilities. Each year, the group works towards a production which is performed at our end-of-year Summer Show, making this a fun, creative, and rewarding volunteering opportunity.

As a Drama Class Volunteer at Stepping Stones, you will:

• Encourage and support learners during rehearsals and performances
• Help with setting up props, costumes and resources for sessions
• Participate alongside learners where appropriate
• Offer 1:1 or group support where needed to help participants engage
• Help cultivate a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe to express themselves
• Offer creative input and feedback

What You’ll Gain

Volunteering with us is a chance to:

• Gain hands-on experience in drama facilitation and inclusive practice
• Contribute to a creative and meaningful community project
• Feel the joy of supporting learners to grow in confidence and express themselves
• Experience working with adults with learning disabilities in a supportive setting
• Develop skills in teamwork, adaptability, communication, and creative problem-solving
• Have a place in a welcoming and friendly team of tutors, staff and volunteers

What We’re Looking For

We're looking for someone with:

• A background or strong interest in drama, theatre, or performance
• Good communication and a warm, encouraging approach
• Enthusiasm, patience, and a willingness to get involved
• A non-judgemental and inclusive mindset
• Reliability and commitment, especially in the lead-up to the summer show

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to:

• Attend an in-person session with the Stepping Stones team and learners
• Provide two references
• Complete a DBS check (we will arrange this)
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we would like you to commit to volunteering with us for one year.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and respond to the following questions (these will come up when you hit 'Apply Now')

• Why would you like to volunteer with Stepping Stones?
• What are the strongest attributes and values you feel you'll bring to this role? 

Prison-based volunteers are the backbone of Fine Cell Work (FCW). Supported by the Fine Cell Work programmes team and by other staff at the FCW office, they teach and administer FCW stitching groups in prisons.

Prison volunteers work in teams to organise classes and teach our stitchers, as well as providing information about the group to the prison and to the FCW office. The precise mix of skills will vary from prison to prison.

Volunteering in prison for Fine Cell Work requires ideally a good level of needlework skill (or a willingness to learn), some teaching experience and/or experience of working with socially-excluded groups. Volunteers must be patient and non-judgemental in order to work effectively. As a prison volunteer you will be:

• Developing skills and confidence
• Teaching prisoners to stitch FCW products within the framework of our training programme
• Encouraging and supporting prisoners to volunteer as class coordinators and peer mentors
• Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake their own creative projects

It is essential for volunteers to support FCW's ethos, believe in rehabilitation, be an excellent teamworker, observe personal boundaries, be reliable and patient to ensure cell groups run smoothly, and have record-keeping skills and have some knowledge of needlework.

Volunteers work in prisons around the UK dependent on where groups are based, therefore it is requred that volunteers will be able to travel to the relevant prisons. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity. 

Please take some time to read the role description to find out more details about the role and what we offer to our volunteers.

At Fine Cell Work, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in FCW’s workforce.

These include applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTQI+, and male identifying applicants as these are currently under-represented in our volunteers groups.

Purpose of the Role:

To deliver creative and inclusive knitting sessions at the Baytree Centre, helping participants of all skill levels enjoy a shared activity, build connections, and feel part of a welcoming community. By leading the sessions and creating a positive environment, the role ensures that activities run smoothly and that participants feel comfortable, valued, and included.

Main Responsibilities:

- Lead and deliver weekly knitting sessions for participants of varying skill levels.

- Prepare and set up the space, ensuring all materials and equipment are available and organised.

- Provide guidance, demonstrations, and encouragement to help participants develop their knitting skills.

- Create a supportive and inclusive environment where participants feel comfortable to learn, share, and ask questions.

- Encourage connections and engagement between participants through their shared interest in knitting.

- Adhere to Baytree Centre policies and procedures.

Skills and Qualities Required:

- Strong knitting skills and the ability to teach and demonstrate techniques clearly.

- Patience, empathy, and cultural sensitivity to support participants of different skill levels and backgrounds.

- Good organisational skills to ensure smooth preparation and delivery of sessions.

- Strong interpersonal skills to foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

- Effective communication skills to provide clear instructions and constructive feedback.

- Interest in crafts, creativity, and community-based activities.

Commitment:

- Deliver a weekly knitting session, (day and time subject to the timetable).

- Minimum commitment of 2 terms for continuity and effectiveness.

- Location: The Baytree Centre.

Benefits:

- Gain experience in delivering and leading creative group activities.

- Develop skills in facilitation, teaching, and cross-cultural communication.

- Contribute to participants’ confidence, creativity, and social connections.

- Be part of a supportive and welcoming volunteer community. 

This role is open to female applicants only (Equality Act 2010: Schedule 9: Occupational Requirements). Applicants must be 18 years or older. 

Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a small, friendly charity based in Southwark, providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills. 

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Dance Fit Class Volunteer to support our weekly Thursday afternoon classes (1pm-3pm), held at St Faith’s Community Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations). 

About Dance Fit

Dance Fit is a fun way to stay active through music and movement. Sessions are designed to improve fitness, flexibility and confidence in a supportive and enjoyable environment. Routines and exercises can be performed standing or seated, making the sessions accessible for everyone. The group learns simple routines that can also be practised at home, and each July learners have the opportunity to perform to friends and family at our Summer Show!

About The Role 

This role is ideal for someone who loves to move. You’ll support our tutor in delivering inclusive and fun classes for a small group of adults with learning disabilities. Every class is an opportunity for the learners to express themselves freely, socialise with others and feel the benefits of physical activity on their wellbeing.

As a Dance Fit Class Volunteer at Stepping Stones, you will: 

• Assist the tutor in setting up and closing down the studio space
• Encourage and support learners 
• Demonstrate movements
• Offer 1:1 or group support where needed to help participants engage 
• Help build a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe to express themselves 

What You’ll Gain 

Volunteering with us is a chance to: 

• Contribute to a creative and meaningful community project 
• Build relationships with and support learners to learn new skills and grow in confidence 
• Experience working with adults with learning disabilities in a supportive setting 
• Develop skills in teamwork, adaptability, communication, and creative problem-solving 
• Have a place in a welcoming and friendly team of tutors, staff and volunteers 
• Receive appropriate training and guidance from an experienced team 

What We’re Looking For 

You don’t need to be a trained dancer to volunteer in this role! At Stepping Stones we value: 

• Good communication and a warm, encouraging approach 
• Enthusiasm, patience, and a willingness to get involved 
• A non-judgemental and inclusive mindset 
• Reliability and commitment 
• Flexibility and adaptability 

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to: 

• Attend an in-person session with the Stepping Stones team and learners 
• Provide two references 
• Complete a DBS check (we will arrange this) 
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we ask that you commit to volunteering with us for one year

How to Apply 

Please submit your CV and respond to the following questions (these will come up when you hit 'Apply Now') 

1. Why would you like to volunteer with Stepping Stones? 
2. What are the strongest attributes and values you feel you'll bring to this role? 

Meeting at Brigade Hall, the home of Roxeth & Harrow Y Team, children aged 7-12 are enjoying fun, faith and fellowship . We create a caring and safe environment in which friendships between children and adults can be established. This then helps them to grow in confidence, develop their skills and abilities enabling them to work together and show care and concern for others.

About Roxeth & Harrow Y Team

Specifically in Y Team we aim to help children to help and understand others

To develop their moral values and a respect for the environment.

Do things together for fun and enjoyment

In fulfilling these aims we encourage children to work together as a team with each child bringing his or her individual gifts and abilities to the group. 

What are we looking for?

A obvious interest in working with children is essential and flexibility with a weekly programme. An enhanced DBS clearance will be required in the short term and can be applied for through us.

Y Team is 132 years old and the oldest childrens' group in the Borough recognised by the local council with its Freedom

About this Role

Location: Remote (Global)

Commitment: Volunteer Unpaid Position, 10-15 Hours per Week

Reports to: Head of Recruitment

About Solution Community: an international 501(c)(3) non-profit organization pioneering an innovative social platform dedicated to enabling actionable change. With volunteers from over 70+ countries, we are a testament to the power of global collaboration. Our team members bring experience from some of the world’s most successful companies, including Apple, Toyota, Google, Netflix, Walmart, Meta, Microsoft, and many others, creating a rich tapestry of knowledge and passion.

Our Mission: To foster a global community of compassion, uniting individuals and organizations to solve the world’s social problems. We bridge non-profits, businesses, philanthropists, and volunteers, empowering them to create meaningful change for current and future generations.

Our Vision: Imagine a world where every person can thrive—a world united by collaboration, compassion, and action. At Solution Community, we are making that vision a reality and driving change that will shape the future.

Professional Volunteering: skills-based service performed with the same reliability, accountability, and quality expected in a paid professional role. Volunteers are core contributors whose work directly supports our mission of global compassion, collaboration, and action.

Position Summary

Solution Community is seeking an experienced, passionate Volunteer Development/Fundraising Network Senior Recruiter to attract, engage, and onboard talented fundraising and development professionals. This strategic volunteer role will help build a strong network of fundraising leaders, donor engagement specialists, grant professionals, and development experts who can contribute to the organization's long-term sustainability and impact.

The ideal candidate is an experienced recruiter with expertise in sourcing and recruiting talent within nonprofit development, philanthropy, fundraising, donor relations, corporate partnerships, or advancement functions.

Key Responsibilities

Talent Acquisition & Recruitment

• Develop and implement recruitment strategies to identify and attract fundraising and development professionals.
• Source, screen, interview, and assess candidates for volunteer and leadership opportunities within the fundraising network.
• Build and maintain talent pipelines across philanthropy, nonprofit development, donor relations, grants management, and corporate social responsibility sectors.
• Partner with organizational leaders to understand current and future fundraising talent needs.
• Ensure a positive and engaging candidate experience throughout the recruitment process.

Network Development & Community Building

• Expand and strengthen a diverse network of fundraising professionals, grant writers, development officers, donor relationship managers, and fundraising consultants.
• Establish relationships with professional associations, nonprofit networks, universities, and community organizations.
• Promote volunteer opportunities through networking, social media, and professional platforms.
• Help create a sustainable pipeline of fundraising talent and volunteer leaders.

Strategic Support

• Collaborate with fundraising and leadership teams to identify priority recruitment needs.
• Assist in recruiting volunteers for fundraising campaigns, grant initiatives, donor outreach, and partnership development efforts.
• Provide market insights and recommendations on best practices for recruiting development and fundraising talent.
• Support diversity and inclusion efforts within volunteer recruitment initiatives.

Process Improvement & Reporting

• Maintain candidate records and recruitment tracking through Dover, our applicant tracking system (ATS).
• Monitor recruitment metrics and provide updates on pipeline activities.
• Recommend innovative sourcing techniques and engagement strategies.
• Support continuous improvement of volunteer recruitment processes.

Qualifications

Required

• 5+ years of experience in recruitment, talent acquisition, executive search, or volunteer recruitment.
• Experience recruiting for fundraising, nonprofit development, donor relations, philanthropy, partnerships, or advancement functions.
• Strong sourcing, interviewing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently in a remote and collaborative environment.
• Passion for nonprofit, community impact, and mission-driven work.

Preferred

• Experience working with nonprofit organizations, charities, foundations, or social impact initiatives.
• Familiarity with fundraising functions including donor stewardship, grant development, major gifts, and corporate partnerships.
• Existing network within the nonprofit, philanthropy, or fundraising community.
• Experience with LinkedIn Recruiter, Dover (ATS), or volunteer management platforms.
• Background recruiting senior-level or executive volunteers is a plus.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Recruiting
• Relationship Building
• Talent Sourcing

What We Offer

• Global collaboration with leaders and strategists from top global companies.
• Meaningful impact on global causes and communities.
• A vibrant, multicultural team spanning 70+ countries.
• A supportive environment rooted in compassion, integrity, innovation, and collaboration.
• Flexible work-life with full autonomy.
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• A formal recommendation upon successful completion of your volunteer term.

Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a small, friendly charity based in Southwark, providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills.

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Music Class Volunteer to support our weekly Tuesday sessions (10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm), held at St Faith’s Community Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations). We do not require applicants to be able to volunteer in both sessions, but the option is there.

About The Role

You’ll help our tutor support a group of adults with learning disabilities to explore a range of instruments. In this class you will play an important part in fostering a creative and relaxed environment so our learners can express themselves and enjoy the benefits of music.

As an Music Class Volunteer at Stepping Stones, you will:

• Encourage and support learners to express themselves
• Help with setting up and packing down instruments
• Offer 1:1 or group support where needed to help participants engage
• Help build a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe to express themselves

What You’ll Gain

Volunteering with us is a chance to:

• Contribute to a creative and meaningful community project
• Build relationships with and support learners to learn new skills and grow in confidence
• Experience working with adults with learning disabilities in a supportive setting
• Develop skills in teamwork, adaptability, communication, and creative problem-solving
• Have a place in a welcoming and friendly team of tutors, staff and volunteers
• Receive appropriate training and guidance from an experienced team

What We’re Looking For

You don’t need to be a musician to volunteer in this role! At Stepping Stones we value:

• Good communication and a warm, encouraging approach
• Enthusiasm, patience, and a willingness to get involved
• A non-judgemental and inclusive mindset
• Reliability and commitment
• Flexibility and adaptability

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to:

• Attend an in-person session with the Stepping Stones team and learners
• Provide two references
• Complete an Enhanced DBS check (we will arrange this)
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we would like you to commit to volunteering with us for one year.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and respond to the following questions (these will come up when you click 'Apply Now')

• Why would you like to volunteer with Stepping Stones?
• What are the strongest attributes and values you feel you'll bring to this role? 

Join us in reducing food waste and supporting communities across Greater Manchester as a Food Surplus Redistribution Lead Volunteer.

This is a great opportunity to make a practical difference, develop your leadership and coordination skills, and be part of a team helping to ensure surplus food is put to good use.

About the role

We collect surplus food from supermarkets and other food donors and redistribute it within local communities.

We are looking for a Food Surplus Redistribution Lead Volunteer to help keep our food collections and distribution activities organised. You’ll work alongside other volunteers, coordinating practical arrangements, supporting the team, and helping to ensure food is collected, handled, and redistributed safely.

What you’ll be doing

Depending on the collection and distribution schedule, you’ll help with:

• Food Collections: Coordinate and carry out collections from supermarkets and other agreed collection points, including confirming collection times and arrangements.
• Food Distribution: Support the sorting, packing, storage and distribution of collected food, following agreed food safety and handling procedures.
• Team Leadership: Brief, guide, and support volunteers participating in collections and distribution; allocate practical tasks; and work alongside the team.
• Donor Relationships: Keep in touch with existing food donors, confirm routine collection arrangements and communicate any changes or issues.
• Identify Potential Donors: Help identify local businesses and organisations that may have suitable surplus food and support agreed initial contact and follow-up.
• Records and Logistics: Maintain records of food collected and distributed, collection arrangements, and any issues that need follow-up.

What we’re looking for

Previous food redistribution experience is not required. This role could be a good fit if you:

• are organised and reliable
• are comfortable communicating with a range of people
• enjoy working as part of a team and are happy to take the lead when needed
• can give clear and practical guidance to other volunteers
• can keep simple, accurate records
• can adapt when collection arrangements change
• are willing to follow food safety, health and safety and safeguarding procedures.

Experience of coordinating people, deliveries or stock would be helpful but is not essential.

Practical details

• Driving and transport: This role involves travelling to food collection points and transporting surplus food. To carry out these collections, you will need a full driving licence valid in the UK and access to a suitable vehicle.
• Lifting and carrying: Collections and distribution can involve loading and unloading food, as well as some lifting and carrying.
• Accessibility: We want volunteering with us to be as accessible as possible. If you would like to discuss an adjustment that could help you take part, please let us know.
• Expenses: Agreed mileage and other approved travel expenses will be reimbursed in line with our expenses policy.

If you have any questions about the driving requirements or whether the role would be suitable for you, please get in touch.

Time commitment

This is a flexible volunteering role, arranged around food collection and distribution schedules.

We’re looking for someone who can usually offer around 4–8 hours a week, across agreed collection or distribution days.

Collection times can vary depending on when surplus food becomes available, so some flexibility is helpful. We’ll agree arrangements with you based on your availability.

What you’ll gain

Through this role, you can:

• gain practical leadership and coordination experience
• strengthen your organisation, communication and problem-solving skills
• gain hands-on experience of food redistribution and logistics
• gain experience working with food donors and community organisations
• receive relevant training and ongoing support.

About Cede Foundation

We are a community-led charity working to tackle poverty and social exclusion by creating opportunities, strengthening communities and supporting people to overcome barriers.

Our work includes education and skills, health and wellbeing, children and young people, community development and environmental sustainability, including surplus food redistribution.

Interested?

If you’d like to take a practical lead in reducing food waste and supporting local communities, we’d love to hear from you.

Please get in touch to express your interest or find out more about the role.