Coffee morning volunteer roles

The role in a nutshell:

Age UK Cheshire's Sharing Time Reconnect Befriending service strives to reduce loneliness and isolation by matching our volunteers with older people via a meaningful befriending relationship.

Please note: You must be located within Cheshire to apply for this role

What will you be doing?

You will be working with your befreindee and the Service Coordinator to understand their goals and how you can help them to achieve them. This could involved visiting the befreindee at their home for a chat, a walk, or a coffee in town. Depending on their goals, this could also include supporting and facilitating access to local groups and physical activities e.g. craft groups, coffee mornings, lunch clubs or meeting up for a coffee with other befriendees to form their own friendship group. 

How would you be supported in this role?

Our volunteers receive an initial induction into the work and policies of our charity and then specific training on befriending, health and safety and safeguarding. You will be part of a caring and experienced team and have the support of a dedicated service coordinator. 

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Loneliness among older people is a growing crisis. By volunteering with Age UK Cheshire’s Sharing Time Reconnect project, you will offer more than a regular visit – you will offer a lifeline to older people in your community. 

Befriending visits usually last around between 1 and 2 hours in business hours. They are typically weekly but can be flexible depending on the individual you are supporting and their circumstances. We also appreciate that volunteers may have other commitments, such as caring responsibilities so we will work with you and the individual to agree a pattern which works for everyone.  ​

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

• Patience and a warm and friendly attitude. 
• Active listening skills with the ability to motivate others.
• A wish to support older people in a person- centred manner, taking account of preferences and abilities.
• Awareness of acting in a way that respects equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Willingness to follow guidance to keep yourself and others safe.

Additional information:

• This role is subject to police checking by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
• You will need to be willing and able to travel to your befriendee and travel expenses will be reimbursed.
• We are looking for volunteer befrienders throughout Cheshire.

Help Us Bring Joy, Connection & Belonging to Our Community

SUNSHINE is a start-up grassroots, volunteer‑powered community based loneliness charity bringing joy, connection and belonging to people who need it most. We create warm, uplifting spaces where no one stands alone — ever. Whether it’s a coffee, a conversation, a walk, a workshop or a moment of joy, every person is welcomed with open arms and genuine care.

And now… we’re looking for compassionate, community‑minded volunteers to help us run SUNSHINE and spread warmth even further.

Volunteer Roles Available

1. Community Hosts

Be the welcoming face of SUNSHINE. Greet people, offer a warm drink, spark conversations and help create a space where everyone feels they belong.

2. Event Helpers

Support our joyful activities — from coffee mornings to socials, walks, workshops and community gatherings.

3. Admin & Organising Support

Help behind the scenes with planning, emails, scheduling, coordination and keeping SUNSHINE running smoothly.

4. Social Media & Storytelling

Share moments of joy, capture community stories and help us spread SUNSHINE online.

5. Outreach & Community Engagement

Help us reach isolated people, local groups, partners and neighbours who would benefit from SUNSHINE.

6. Kindness Crew

Small acts of kindness that create big ripple effects — checking in on someone, writing a card, offering a listening ear.

What SUNSHINE Stands For

• Joyful Events & Activities — moments that spark smiles and connection.

• Radical Welcome — you matter here.

• Human Connection — real conversations, real relationships.

• Community‑Led — shaped by local people.

• Kindness in Action — small acts, big impact.

• Inclusive & Intergenerational — every age, every background, every ability.

Why Volunteer With Us

Because SUNSHINE isn’t just a charity — it’s a feeling. A community. A place where people rediscover belonging, purpose and joy.

Volunteering with us means:

• Making a real difference to people who need connection.

• Being part of a warm, supportive team.

• Bringing your personality, creativity and heart.

• Helping build something beautiful for your community.

Ready to Bring a Little More SUNSHINE Into the World?

Together, we can make sure no one stands alone.

Volunteer Opportunity: Support Our 55+ Community Programme

Are you passionate about supporting older adults and making a positive impact in your local community?
Queen’s Crescent Community Association (QCCA) is seeking dedicated volunteers to join our vibrant 55+ Programme in the heart of Camden.

QCCA is one of London’s most active and inclusive community centres, offering a wide range of free activities and support services for older residents (55+). Since 2002, our mission has been to help build a happier, healthier, and more connected community—especially within one of Camden’s most deprived neighbourhoods.

What We Offer – Weekly Activities

As part of our commitment to improving wellbeing, reducing isolation, and encouraging meaningful engagement, we run a variety of sessions each week, including:

• Chair‑based exercise
• Coffee mornings
• Gym sessions
• Drama sessions
• Reflexology
• Weekly community lunch
• Bingo
• Movie matinees
• Arts and crafts

Volunteer Role

We are looking for friendly, enthusiastic volunteers who enjoy socialising and building rapport with older people. Key responsibilities may include:

• Welcoming and chatting with participants
• Supporting the setup and pack‑down of activities
• Ordering and organising supplies
• Keeping accurate attendance records
• Acommpany outings and events in London (e.g., gardens, museums, music and theatre trips). 

This role is ideal for anyone who enjoys connecting with people, contributing to the community, or gaining experience in a supportive charitable environment.

If you have a particular skill or hobby you would love to share (art, music, movement, crafts, language, etc.), we would be delighted to explore incorporating it into our activity timetable.

Volunteer Hours (Options)

This is a voluntary role.
Activities run Monday to Friday, and each session lasts 2–3 hours. Volunteers can choose the days and sessions that best suit their availability.

Volunteer Benefits

By joining us, you will gain:

• The opportunity to support a local community in need and build meaningful relationships
• Valuable volunteering or work experience
• Lunch vouchers

Application Process:

When you reach out, we’ll begin with a warm introductory phone call and welcome you to visit our centre. If you choose to start volunteering with us, we’ll guide you through a full induction and organise your DBS check.

Interested? Get in Touch!

Events Volunteers needed! Join our lovely community 

Please read the description carefully. 

THIS IS A VOLUNTEERING ROLE

Home-Start Camden & Islington (HSC&I) offers free, confidential support and practical help to parents of children under five living in the London Boroughs of Camden and Islington.

Home-Start Camden & Islington is looking for friendly, local volunteers to help out at our various exciting community events!

We host all kinds of activities aimed at building confidence and helping build a community for example:

Walk & Talks

Foundling Art Course

Zoo Trips

Coffee Mornings

Museum visits

Park Days

Foodbanks

Every event is a chance to connect, support, and have a great time with local families.

We’re looking for a pool of volunteers.

We’re looking for people who can commit some dedicated time. Our events usually run in the mornings or afternoons so you would be needed from around 10am-1pm or 12pm-3pm. But we are looking for people who can commit to as much time as they can.

If you aren’t able to commit but are keen to help out with the events above, please also get in touch and we can discuss availability and options!

We will carry out a DBS check. 
Experience with families and children is required.
And we will also require references.
 

Volunteer Role Requirements

• Ability to communicate effectively and sensitively

• Open and welcoming to parents

• Parenting and Childcaring experience

• Ability to empathise with others

• Awareness & sensitivity to different lifestyles

• Reliability & Commitment

• Sufficient English to participate in activities

• Weekday availability (these events are always held in Camden and Islington but in different locations in the borough).

What you’ll be doing

• Helping set up the room: tea and coffee table and play area for children

• Playing with children

• Offering parents a drink

• Welcoming and chatting with parents

• If the event is out and about, you may be carrying some picnic items and toys (we have a trolley!)

• Helping parents with directions to arrive at the destination

• Games and activities

What is in it for you?

• Increase your self-confidence

• Help families in need and become more involved in your community

• Opportunities to meet new people

• References provided after one year

• Ongoing training and support throughout this journey

• Good experience on your CV for future jobs

If you are interested in this role, please send us a short letter about your experiences and why you’d like to be a part of Home-Start Camden & Islington. We would love to consider you for this role!

We are looking forward to welcoming you to our team! 

Location: Birmingham | Commitment: 3-8 hours per week (working week) | Work style: Hybrid

Since 2024, we’ve been honoured to support over 800 individuals on their journey toward a better future. Looking ahead, our 2026 strategic vision is bold. We want to be recognised as a collaborative support service that truly transforms lives. To help make that happen, we’re looking for a passionate team of fundraisers to work alongside one another, supporting the Creative Director, each contributing in different ways to support the organisation’s sustainability and impact.

The Corporate Fundraiser focuses on securing B2B income. You will work directly with businesses and corporate partners, supporting them to organise fundraising activities within their organisation. This includes events such as coffee mornings, sponsored walks or runs, dress-down days, and team fundraising challenges.

This role suits someone who is confident in communicating with organisations and enjoys building professional relationships for social good.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support corporate partners to plan and deliver fundraising activities

• Act as a friendly point of contact for businesses fundraising on our behalf

• Help share fundraising ideas and guidance with corporate teams

• Maintain positive relationships with existing and new corporate supporters

• Work alongside the wider team to align corporate fundraising with our values and goals

What difference will you make:

• An opportunity to make a real impact on a grassroots organisation.

• You’ll help unlock larger-scale donations and long-term partnerships that strengthen our sustainability and expand our ability to support people across Birmingham.

• Ultimately your input will help turn good intentions into meaningful, lasting change.

What We’re Looking For:

• Experience in corporate fundraising

• Experience planning events or organising community-based campaigns.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.

• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with diverse stakeholders.

• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage your time effectively while balancing the voluntary role with other commitments.

• Understanding of homelessness-related issues, or a genuine interest in learning about the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals in the community.

Are you a natural organiser who loves bringing people together for a good cause? As a Fundraising Group Leader at Canine Partners, you’ll lead a team of local volunteers to plan and deliver fun, impactful fundraising events in your community. From coffee mornings to dog shows, you’ll help shape the group’s activities, run monthly meetings, and keep everything running smoothly.

This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who is confident, friendly, and ready to make a difference. You’ll be the key link between your group and the Canine Partners fundraising team and will be supported every step of the way with training, resources, and expert guidance.

About the opportunity

This role involves taking on the responsibility for leading a group of fellow volunteers to arrange fundraising events in your local community. You would host regular group meetings to discuss upcoming activities and ensure plans are in place for events throughout the year.

We request that there should be a minimum requirement of one meeting per month, as well as additional planning and activity when required. However, the amount of time you commit depends on the nature of the activities held by the group.

What’s involved

• Leading a group of volunteers to organise fundraising events and activities to raise money for Canine Partners
• Ensuring the group is following the guidelines outlined in the Fundraising Group Handbook
• Being the main point of contact between the Fundraising Group and your Canine Partners Staff Contact
• Being the public face of Canine Partners within your local area
•  Passing leads to your Canine Partners Staff Contact

Role Requirements

• Age 18 or over
• Ability to motivate and organise a group of people to achieve a shared goal
• Access to your own transport with flexibility to visit different locations
• Polite, confident and personable manner
• Excellent customer service skills
•  Excellent record keeping skills
• Some elements of this role could require standing for the duration of the session and/or being in a busy environment. Please advise us if you have any concerns about this, and we will do our best to support you.

Support and Training

• Reimbursement of expenses
• Dedicated point of contact in the fundraising team
• Guidance on cash handling
• Income monitoring sheet provided
• Public liability insurance
• Volunteer clothing and ID badge
• Training and support in fundraising event management

Help Us Support, Grow and Celebrate Our SUNSHINE Volunteers

SUNSHINE is a start-up grassroots, volunteer‑powered community based loneliness charity bringing joy, connection and belonging to people who need it most. We create warm, uplifting spaces where no one stands alone — ever. From coffee mornings to community socials, every SUNSHINE moment is designed to spark smiles, laughter and genuine human connection.

As we grow, we’re looking for a caring, organised and people‑focused Volunteering Manager to help support our Founder & CEO and ensure our volunteers feel welcomed, valued and empowered.

This is a wonderful role for someone who loves people, thrives in community settings and wants to help build something hopeful and human‑centred.

The Role

As Volunteering Manager, you will help coordinate, support and nurture our volunteer team. You’ll play a key role in ensuring SUNSHINE runs smoothly day‑to‑day and that every volunteer has a positive, meaningful experience.

This role is perfect for someone who:

• Enjoys organising, supporting and motivating people.

• Has strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Loves building warm, inclusive community culture.

• Wants to make a real difference in a growing grassroots charity.

• Believes in kindness, dignity and belonging for all.

Key Responsibilities

1. Volunteer Coordination

• Support volunteer recruitment, onboarding and scheduling.

• Match volunteers to roles based on their strengths and interests.

• Keep volunteer information organised and up to date.

• Help ensure activities and events are well‑staffed and run smoothly.

2. Volunteer Support & Wellbeing

• Be a friendly, approachable point of contact for volunteers.

• Check in regularly to ensure volunteers feel supported and valued.

• Help nurture a warm, inclusive, intergenerational volunteer community.

• Celebrate volunteer contributions and encourage a culture of appreciation.

3. Communication & Engagement

• Share updates, opportunities and information with volunteers.

• Help build a sense of belonging and team spirit.

• Support the Founder & CEO with internal communication and coordination.

4. Culture & Values

• Champion SUNSHINE’s ethos of joy, kindness and radical welcome.

• Help create a safe, supportive and empowering environment for all.

• Model empathy, warmth and positive leadership.

What You Bring

• Strong organisational and people skills.

• A warm, supportive, community‑minded approach.

• Good communication and reliability.

• A passion for helping others thrive.

• A commitment to SUNSHINE’s values of joy, belonging and kindness.

What You’ll Gain

• A meaningful role in a growing grassroots charity.

• The chance to shape a volunteer community rooted in warmth and connection.

• A close working relationship with the Founder & CEO.

• A supportive environment where your contribution truly matters.

• The joy of seeing your work directly improve people’s lives.

Help Us Build a Community Where No One Stands Alone

If you’re someone who loves people, believes in kindness and wants to help build something beautiful for your community, we’d love to hear from you.

Together, we can bring more SUNSHINE into the world.

Help Shape the Future of SUNSHINE

SUNSHINE is a start-up grassroots, volunteer‑powered community based loneliness charity bringing joy, connection and belonging to people who need it most. We create warm, uplifting spaces where no one stands alone — ever. From coffee mornings to community socials, every SUNSHINE moment is designed to spark smiles, laughter and genuine human connection.

As we grow, we’re looking for a committed, compassionate and capable Senior Leadership Volunteer to work closely with our Founder & CEO and help guide SUNSHINE into its next chapter.

This is a rare opportunity to be part of building something beautiful from the ground up.

The Role

As a Senior Leadership Volunteer, you will support the Founder & CEO in the strategic, operational and cultural development of SUNSHINE. You’ll help ensure the charity runs smoothly, sustainably and with the warmth and integrity that define us.

This role is ideal for someone who:

• Thrives in purpose‑driven environments.

• Enjoys shaping systems, structure and strategy.

• Is emotionally intelligent, reliable and grounded.

• Wants to make a meaningful difference to people experiencing loneliness.

• Believes in kindness‑led leadership and community empowerment.

Key Responsibilities

You may support with:

1. Strategic Support

• Helping shape priorities, plans and community‑led initiatives.

• Offering insight, ideas and leadership perspective.

• Supporting the Founder in decision‑making and organisational development.

2. Operational Support

• Assisting with coordination, planning and smooth running of activities.

• Helping develop processes, systems and volunteer pathways.

• Supporting with admin, scheduling and internal organisation.

3. People & Culture

• Helping nurture a warm, inclusive, supportive volunteer culture.

• Supporting volunteer onboarding, wellbeing and engagement.

• Being a trusted sounding board for the Founder & CEO.

4. Community & Partnerships

• Helping build relationships with local partners, groups and supporters.

• Representing SUNSHINE with warmth and professionalism.

What You Bring

• A calm, steady, supportive presence.

• Strong organisational or leadership experience (charity, community, business or public sector).

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• A collaborative, compassionate approach.

• Commitment to SUNSHINE’s values of joy, belonging, kindness and radical welcome.

What You’ll Gain

• A meaningful leadership role in a growing grassroots charity.

• The chance to shape a movement that brings people together.

• A close working relationship with the Founder & CEO.

• A warm, supportive environment where your contribution truly matters.

• The joy of seeing your work directly improve people’s lives.

Join Us in Building SUNSHINE

If you’re someone who leads with kindness, believes in community, and wants to help build something hopeful and human‑centred, we’d love to hear from you.

Together, we can make sure no one stands alone.

Fundraising events helper

Fundraising hub - South west

A bit about this role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!
 

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be

• help set up and/or man stalls at events
• help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections
• help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances
• promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

A bit more information about this role and the team

This volunteer opportunity is perfect for anyone who enjoys being part of local community events and wants to make a meaningful difference for cats across the South West. As a fundraising events helper, you will support a range of enjoyable activities such as craft fairs, coffee mornings, quiz nights, county shows and supermarket collections. Your support at these events helps raise the vital funds needed to care for cats and kittens in need.

Every event you take part in truly makes a difference. Even small amounts go a long way. Just £5 can feed a cat in our care for 25 days, helping us provide the food, warmth and comfort they rely on.

You do not need previous experience. All you need is a friendly attitude, a willingness to get involved and an interest in helping cats. Whether you prefer setting up stalls, chatting to members of the public or supporting activities throughout the day, there is a place for you on the team. Any time you can give will help us continue our work and support cats who need it most.

This role is very flexible. You can choose to volunteer at a single event for a couple of hours or join multiple events throughout the year. We will keep you updated with upcoming opportunities so you can choose what suits you best.

Wherever you are based in the South West, you will have full support from your fellow volunteers and the Fundraising Hub team. They are always available to offer guidance, resources and encouragement.

We will support you every step of the way.

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Equip, Empower and Inspire Our Volunteers at SUNSHINE

SUNSHINE is a start-up grassroots, volunteer‑powered community based loneliness charity bringing joy, connection and belonging to people who need it most. We create warm, uplifting spaces where no one stands alone — ever. From coffee mornings to community socials, every SUNSHINE moment is designed to spark smiles, laughter and genuine human connection.

As we grow, we’re looking for a thoughtful, organised and people‑focused Learning & Development Manager to support our Founder & CEO by leading the training and development of our volunteers — ensuring they feel confident, equipped and ready to shine in their roles.

This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who loves helping others grow and wants to shape a learning culture rooted in kindness, empowerment and belonging.

The Role

As Learning & Development Manager, you will design, coordinate and deliver training that helps our volunteers feel supported, skilled and ready to make a difference. You’ll play a key role in building a confident, capable and joyful volunteer community.

This role is perfect for someone who:

• Enjoys developing people and creating positive learning experiences.

• Has experience in training, facilitation, coaching or people development.

• Is organised, warm and encouraging.

• Wants to help shape a young, hopeful, community‑led charity.

• Believes in kindness, dignity and human connection.

Key Responsibilities

1. Volunteer Training & Development

• Design and deliver training sessions for new and existing volunteers.

• Create simple, accessible learning materials and resources.

• Ensure volunteers feel confident, prepared and supported in their roles.

• Identify training needs and develop pathways for growth.

2. Onboarding & Induction

• Lead welcoming, uplifting induction sessions for new volunteers.

• Introduce volunteers to SUNSHINE’s values, culture and ways of working.

• Help new volunteers feel at ease, informed and ready to get involved.

3. Ongoing Support & Coaching

• Offer guidance, encouragement and confidence‑building support.

• Check in with volunteers to understand their needs and experiences.

• Help volunteers develop skills in communication, hosting, safeguarding and community engagement.

4. Culture & Values

• Champion SUNSHINE’s ethos of joy, kindness and radical welcome.

• Help nurture a learning culture where volunteers feel safe to grow.

• Model empathy, warmth and positive leadership.

What You Bring

• Experience in training, facilitation, coaching or people development.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• A warm, supportive and encouraging approach.

• Good organisation and attention to detail.

• A commitment to SUNSHINE’s values of joy, belonging and kindness.

What You’ll Gain

• A meaningful role shaping the development of a growing volunteer community.

• The chance to build a learning culture rooted in warmth and empowerment.

• A close working relationship with the Founder & CEO.

• A supportive environment where your contribution truly matters.

• The joy of seeing volunteers grow in confidence and connection.

Help Us Equip Volunteers to Bring More SUNSHINE Into the World

If you’re someone who loves helping people grow, believes in kindness and wants to build something beautiful for your community, we’d love to hear from you.

Together, we can make sure every volunteer feels ready to shine — and no one stands alone.

Help us make sure no one faces suicidal thoughts alone.

Samaritans is looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Fundraising Events Admin Volunteer to support our busy Community and Events Team. Your support will help us raise the vital funds needed to ensure people can access emotional support whenever they need it most.

What is the role?

As a Fundraising Events Admin Volunteer, you will play a key role in helping our team focus on delivering successful fundraising events and supporting our incredible fundraisers. From managing enquiries to sending out fundraising materials, you’ll help keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in events, fundraising, marketing, and supporter stewardship while making a meaningful difference.

This role will give you the opportunity to:

• Experience volunteering within a busy events team within a large UK charity.
• Develop strong communication skills working within a diverse network.
• Gain an insight into event marketing
• Support our Third-Party Events (TPE) fundraisers, taking part in events like London Marathon, Great North Run and Paris Marathon as well as fundraisers who take part in primarily virtual events, such as Dawn Walk and our Dog Walking Challenge.

Key responsibilities

• Support the Community and Events team to help us deliver our successful fundraising events and stewardship.
• Support our do your own thing (DYOT) and events fundraisers.
• Support with moderation and creating content to make our Stream for Samaritans, Discord server a warm and welcoming place.

Qualities and experience

• Enthusiasm and passion for community and events fundraising
• Excellent organisation skills and attention to detail
• Personable, approachable and able to develop relationships with a wide range of individuals

Please see the role description below for more details about this role.

Time commitment

Ideally we would like the successful candidate to support us one day a week, but we can be flexible with this depending on the work required within the team and the needs of the candidate

Applications

Applications will close on Thursday 30th April 2026.

Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted with video interviews offered to the right candidates as soon as possible. We might close the applications earlier should we find suitable candidates before 30th April.

Support Our Founder & CEO and Help Shape the Heart of SUNSHINE

SUNSHINE is a grassroots, volunteer‑powered community charity bringing joy, connection and belonging to people who need it most. We create warm, uplifting spaces where no one stands alone — ever. From coffee mornings to community socials, every SUNSHINE moment is designed to spark smiles, laughter and genuine human connection.

As we grow, we’re looking for a compassionate, capable and people‑focused Head of HR & Volunteering to support our Founder & CEO in building a thriving, inclusive and well‑supported volunteer community.

This is a senior leadership volunteer role for someone who believes in kindness‑led culture, strong people practices and the power of human connection.

The Role

As Head of HR & Volunteering, you will lead the development of SUNSHINE’s people culture, volunteer pathways and HR foundations. You’ll work closely with the Founder & CEO to ensure our volunteers feel valued, supported and empowered — and that SUNSHINE grows with warmth, integrity and good governance.

This role is perfect for someone who:

• Has experience in HR, people management or volunteer leadership.

• Loves building positive culture and supporting others to flourish.

• Is organised, emotionally intelligent and grounded.

• Wants to help shape a young, hopeful, community‑led charity.

• Believes in kindness, dignity and belonging for all.

Key Responsibilities

1. Volunteer Leadership & Support

• Develop and oversee volunteer recruitment, onboarding and engagement.

• Create clear volunteer pathways, role descriptions and support structures.

• Ensure volunteers feel welcomed, appreciated and connected.

• Support wellbeing, inclusion and positive team culture.

2. HR Foundations & Good Practice

• Help build simple, ethical HR processes and policies.

• Support with safeguarding, training, documentation and compliance.

• Advise the Founder & CEO on people‑related matters.

• Help ensure SUNSHINE is a safe, supportive and empowering place for all.

3. Culture & Community

• Champion SUNSHINE’s values of joy, kindness and radical welcome.

• Help nurture a warm, inclusive, intergenerational volunteer community.

• Support conflict resolution, reflective practice and healthy communication.

4. Strategic Partnership with the Founder & CEO

• Act as a trusted advisor on people, culture and volunteer strategy.

• Help shape the long‑term development of SUNSHINE’s volunteer‑powered model.

• Bring insight, steadiness and leadership perspective to organisational decisions.

What You Bring

• Experience in HR, people leadership, volunteer management or organisational development.

• Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.

• A calm, supportive, grounded presence.

• Commitment to inclusion, kindness and community‑led values.

• Reliability, integrity and a collaborative spirit.

What You’ll Gain

• A meaningful senior leadership role in a growing grassroots charity.

• The chance to shape a volunteer culture rooted in warmth and belonging.

• A close working relationship with the Founder & CEO.

• The joy of seeing your work directly improve people’s lives.

• A community that values kindness, humanity and connection.

Help Us Build a Community Where No One Stands Alone

If you’re someone who leads with heart, believes in people and wants to help build something hopeful and human‑centred, we’d love to hear from you.

Together, we can bring more SUNSHINE into the world.

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in South West London, and helps them to play their full part in the community. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives. 

We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background, providing them the tools they need to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for adults include currently include: ESOL classes; sports; women’s creative writing; women’s coffee morning, and casework. 

About the CARAS Adult Team: 

In the post-pandemic environment, CARAS is responding to the role of digital literacies in our programme delivery to learners of asylum-seeking and refugee background. In contrast to the UK essential Digital skills framework, we have built in language inclusion to create a participatory learning course for Essential Digital Literacies for learners who are new to reading and writing in English. The individuals joining CARAS are highly diverse, with different countries of origin, linguistic and educational backgrounds. We have observed over the last year that many CARAS community members have limited digital skills, particularly in regard to using computers. Community members have highlighted that computers are important for many individuals to achieve their educational and employment goals, whilst increasing confidence and independence. We have co-designed a digital skills program in partnership with CARAS community members to improve computer literacy and skills, focusing on basic computer literacy.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Digital Skills Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The Digital Skills group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the digital skills sessions is as follows: 

• Tuesday evenings 4pm to 6pm 

Volunteers are required to attend one session per week. They are also welcome to come early and support ESOL classes before the Digital Skills sessions, where appropriate. 

The Tuesday Digital skills sessions focus on practical, accessible digital skills, such as, but not limited to: 

• Using computers, tablets, or smartphones confidently 

• Keyboard and navigation skills 

• Using email and online communication tools 

• Accessing learning platforms and online resources 

• Online safety and digital wellbeing 

• Using digital tools to support English learning, homework and study skills 

The aim of the Digital Skills sessions is to build independence, confidence, and digital inclusion, supporting young people to engage more fully with formal education and everyday life in the UK. Enrolments to the programme are based on rolling admissions, requiring adaptability to the changing digital skills needs of the group through participatory enquiry led by the ESOL teacher. 

The ESOL teacher will provide guidance, session plans, and tips for supporting learners with emerging English, including how to explain digital concepts in clear, accessible ways. 

Volunteers will typically work with 1–5 students, offering one-to-one or small group support and adapting tasks to different ability levels. 

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing one-to-one or small group support during Digital Skills sessions 

• Supporting young people to use digital devices and software confidently 

• Helping to set up the classroom and digital equipment 

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session 

• Sharing observations on learners’ progress, challenges, and successes 

• Making use of any community languages if any, to support learners’ understanding 

• Working collaboratively as part of a team and helping to shape the project 

• Supporting young people to recognise and celebrate their achievements 

• Showing flexibility to a wide range of ability levels and confidence with technology 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, and all other relevant policies 

Requirements: 

Essential: 

• Aged 18 years or older 

• An interest in education, digital inclusion, and supporting young people 

• Confident using computers, smartphones, or tablets 

• Currently resident in the UK or has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses and willing to undergo a DBS check 

• DBS and proof of residency are not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK 

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to starting 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed) 

• Non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds 

• Reliable and punctual, with a commitment of at least one session per week for a minimum of 4 months 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English 

• Willingness to explain digital concepts patiently and clearly 

• Ability to volunteer during Wandsworth term time 

Desirable 

• Experience supporting young people with digital skills or IT (formal or informal) 

• Knowledge of community languages such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali, or Spanish 

• Experience working with young people, refugees, or learners of English in a work or volunteer capacity 

• Interest in using digital tools to support language learning 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will be invited to a taster session at CARAS, following which they will have an informal interview with a staff member of the CARAS ESOL team and a community member. All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. These meetings and the induction training will be on a rolling basis, so apply ASAP!

The purpose of the role is to design and facilitate gardening activities at our community allotment with refugees and people seeking asylum, alongside our other gardening volunteers.

The role includes:

• planning and facilitating seasonal gardening activities with small groups
• supporting participants to bring their own ideas, work independently or lead their own activities where appropriate, providing support and guidance as needed
• fostering a positive culture of support and community
• raising any safeguarding or support concerns with our People Support Team
• setting up/packing down around sessions, generally contributing to the smooth running of sessions
• maintaining tools
• contributing to overall running of the charity (attending monthly online meetings, taking on organisational tasks)
• maintaining participant confidentiality
• attending training sessions as needed

At the garden we run gardening, art and craft activities. Through these sessions we maintain our beautiful community garden, grow and harvest vegetable/fruit crops and create wildlife and social areas. We always try to make sure there are a range of activities to choose from to fit with a range of energy/ability levels. All new ideas for activities to do at the garden are welcome!

Our sessions are on Tuesday mornings and afternoons and Friday mornings

Gardening expertise is not necessary for this role, although it is always very welcome.

As this is an on site role we will consider applicant who are based in Greater Manchester,UK.