Communication volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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!
We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. 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!
Volunteer positions currently available in Coventry and Warwickshire
Hospital Visitor Volunteer
Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate. The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
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hold drop-in sessions
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attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
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share information
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assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
Please note: You must be able to attend one of the following locations on a weekly basis, in order to volunteer as a Hospital Visitor; Caludon Centre or Hawkesbury Lodge (Coventry), Aspen Unit or St Michaals Hospital (Warwickshire)
Support Session Volunteer
You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities. Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis. The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual.
As a support session volunteer, you might:
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help people have their say when it matters most
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Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
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help people to make complaints and use local services
All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00. You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.
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”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We’re looking for patient, supportive people who’d like to spend a few hours each week helping others to learn and develop new skills.
As a Learning Support Volunteer, you’ll be part of a welcoming team that helps adults and young people take part in our learning, employability and personal development sessions. You’ll provide encouragement, guidance and reassurance to help participants build confidence and progress at their own pace.
This is a flexible, hands-on role for anyone who enjoys supporting others and wants to make a difference in their community.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting learning and skills sessions led by tutors or facilitators
- Assisting individuals or small groups with practical tasks and exercises
- Encouraging participation and helping build confidence during activities
- Helping prepare materials, resources and session spaces
- Providing friendly reassurance and guidance to learners throughout sessions
- Assisting with feedback collection, attendance and evaluation records
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
- Good communication and listening skills
- Patience, empathy and a supportive approach
- Confidence working with people from different backgrounds
- Teamwork and reliability
- Organised and attentive to detail
- Willingness to follow guidance and safeguarding procedures
What You’ll Gain
- Experience supporting learning and employability programmes
- Opportunities to develop communication, facilitation and teamwork skills
- The satisfaction of helping others grow in confidence and independence
- A chance to meet new people and contribute to positive community impact
About Us
We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.
Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.
Safeguarding and Inclusion
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.
Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.
A catalyst for overcoming poverty at its root by empowering marginalised people and developing sustainable communities.



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
You'll be raising awareness, & improving understanding of sight loss through delivering RNIB’s Awareness to Action sessions in your local community. Through these engaging sessions, you'll inspire participants to make small changes to their behaviour that make a massive difference in the day-to-day lives of people with sight loss. As a Community Change Champion, this will involve:
• Talking directly with community leaders, businesses, & local groups about ways they can get involved & inviting them to join an Awareness to Action session.
• Delivering RNIB’s Awareness to Action sessions either in person or online, using our resources. You may do this on your own or with a team of other local volunteers, both sighted and with sight loss.
• Sharing RNIB’s information & initiatives so people know we’re here for them.
• If you have a personal link to sight loss, sharing your experience during the session to help give a tangible example of how local people can make a real difference.
• Telling us about any activities you have engaged in via a Microsoft form.
What will you gain from the role?
• First-hand experience in grassroots community engagement & charity outreach.
• The opportunity to develop communication & networking skills.
• Support to learn & or use presentation skills to deliver the Awareness to Action Session in person and virtually.
• If you have lived experience of sight loss, support to tell your story to make the most positive impact.
• Know that your efforts are improving the public’s understanding, perceptions & behaviour towards blind and partially sighted people.
We will provide:
• Induction to the role & organisation.
• Training and support to help you thrive in your role.
• A resource pack/toolkit to help deliver the message.
• Opportunities to connect with other RNIB volunteers across the UK.
• The chance to get involved in other activities that interest you & to apply for our internal-only job vacancies.
• Support from a volunteering manager.
How often will I be needed?
- 4 Hours per Action
Key requirements
- One reference
Location
Additional location information
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Home and local area.
Who this opportunity will suit
Minimum age
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply
What skills and experience are needed?
- • Positive attitude towards blind and partially sighted people. • Effective communication skills. • An outgoing friendly approach to meeting new people. • A willingness and ability to complete the Microsoft feedback form.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.
The difference you will make to cats and people
Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. The purpose of this role is to support the organisation with communications and administration at a local level. You’ll play an active part in the branch committee and support the branch with record keeping and planning, thus enabling more cats to be helped.
You 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:
- Disseminating relevant organisation-wide information and updates to the branch volunteers
- Supporting engagement and communication between the branch and wider organisation
- Drafting committee meeting agendas and taking and sharing meeting minutes
- Supporting the efficient running of the branch by ensuring administration processes are carried out effectively
- Supporting the administration and update of the branch annual plan
- Sign-posting queries from members of the public
- Keeping branch records and information up to date and secure, using Cats Protection systems – training will be provided
Time expectation
Our support volunteers usually spend 2-5 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.
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.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Community Companions support patients by offering befriending. It’s a gratifying role for someone reliable, a good listener, and with a few hours during the working week to spare. We provide a comprehensive training package and ongoing peer support sessions. We ask for a commitment of at least six months for two hours a week.
This role does not involve offering counsel, providing clinical care, or giving advice or information. You will be signposting to professional support where needed.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Mencap’s goal is to make the UK the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to lead happy and healthy lives. To help us with this, we are currently looking for a volunteer to help support a person with a learning disability to travel to meetings or events.
The Travel Buddy Volunteer will support a Voices Council member who is a person with a learning disability (and possibly other disabilities) to attend a Voices Council meeting 4 times a year to travel from Wales to London and one regional meeting a year that is not in London.
As a Travel Buddy Volunteer, you’ll support one person to attend:
• Four national Voices Council meetings a year in London
• One regional meeting a year in a different UK location
Even if you can only commit to one meeting a year, we would absolutely love to hear from you. Every bit of support makes a huge difference.
This role involves travelling with her on public transport the day before the meeting, staying overnight in a hotel, and supporting the person to get to Mencap’s London office on the day of the meeting. But it’s so much more than a journey of A to B, you’ll be:
- Enabling the Voices Council member to show up, share their voice, and shape decisions at Mencap
- Helping the Voices Council member to feel confident, calm and safe during the journey
- Encouraging the Voices Council member to build skills to travel more confidently over time
This is an ad-hoc opportunity with plenty of advance notice, giving you the flexibility to volunteer when you are able. All travel and hotel expenses for both you and the journey and the person you are supporting will be covered.
The 2026 dates are as follows:
24-25 February
5-6 May
8-9 September
24-25 November
You’ll also have free time to explore London for the day while the member attends her meeting.
If you want to support someone’s independence, confidence and involvement in shaping Mencap’s future, this is a fantastic and truly rewarding opportunity.
About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.
We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.
Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.
Empower individuals with learning disabilities and autism to reach their full potential and lead the lives they choose.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers.
What you’ll be doing:
• Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups.
• Delivering Talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people
• Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service
What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.
In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.
How often will I be needed?
- 4 Hours per Month
Key requirements
- 1 reference
Location
Region
- Northern Ireland
Additional location information
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Currently looking for applicants within the Belfast Area only!
Who this opportunity will suit
Minimum age
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply
What skills and experience are needed?
- • Lived experience of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people • Be comfortable speaking to different audiences to share your story, or a willingness to try with our support. • Able to communicate effectively. • Have an outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
You'll be raising awareness, & improving understanding of sight loss through delivering RNIB’s Awareness to Action sessions in your local community. Through these engaging sessions, you'll inspire participants to make small changes to their behaviour that make a massive difference in the day-to-day lives of people with sight loss. As a Community Change Champion, this will involve:
• Talking directly with community leaders, businesses, & local groups about ways they can get involved & inviting them to join an Awareness to Action session.
• Delivering RNIB’s Awareness to Action sessions either in person or online, using our resources. You may do this on your own or with a team of other local volunteers, both sighted and with sight loss.
• Sharing RNIB’s information & initiatives so people know we’re here for them.
• If you have a personal link to sight loss, sharing your experience during the session to help give a tangible example of how local people can make a real difference.
• Telling us about any activities you have engaged in via a Microsoft form.
What will you gain from the role?
• First-hand experience in grassroots community engagement & charity outreach.
• The opportunity to develop communication & networking skills.
• Support to learn & or use presentation skills to deliver the Awareness to Action Session in person and virtually.
• If you have lived experience of sight loss, support to tell your story to make the most positive impact.
• Know that your efforts are improving the public’s understanding, perceptions & behaviour towards blind and partially sighted people.
We will provide:
• Induction to the role & organisation.
• Training and support to help you thrive in your role.
• A resource pack/toolkit to help deliver the message.
• Opportunities to connect with other RNIB volunteers across the UK.
• The chance to get involved in other activities that interest you & to apply for our internal-only job vacancies.
• Support from a volunteering manager.
How often will I be needed?
- 4 Hours per Action
Key requirements
- One reference
Who this opportunity will suit
Minimum age
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply
What skills and experience are needed?
- • Positive attitude towards blind and partially sighted people. • Effective communication skills. • An outgoing friendly approach to meeting new people. • A willingness and ability to complete the Microsoft feedback form.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Action Tutoring is a national education charity that offers free maths and English tutoring to pupils facing disadvantage.
By volunteering as a tutor at a local school or online, you'll be supporting children to build their confidence and help ensure they leave school with the grades needed to build a bright future.
What will I be doing?
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Tutoring 1-3 pupils in Year 5 or 6, or Year 7, 10 or 11.
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Commit to one hour a week, for up to 20 weeks. You choose the day and time to sign up to.
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Use our tutor workbooks to guide your pupils through activities that will boost their confidence and grades.
What you'll gain:
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Receive induction training, tutor workbooks and ongoing support.
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Develop skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving.
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Meet like-minded people in our volunteer community.
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Travel expense reimbursement (up to £5 per session).
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Free DBS check.
This volunteer role is perfect for you if you:
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Are passionate about making a difference and helping young people succeed, particularly those facing disadvantage.
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Seek valuable experience working with children and are eager to hone essential skills such as communication, mentorship, and leadership – all highly valued in any career path.
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Have a busy schedule but are keen to contribute to your community, as this flexible role requires just one hour a week, either in-person or conveniently online.
We look for volunteers with:
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Solid subject knowledge in the area they wish to tutor, which may be demonstrated by a degree or grade B at A-level qualification (or equivalent) or relevant experience.
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The ability to explain concepts clearly and patiently.
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A commitment to supporting pupils’ academic progress.
We recognise that valuable experience can be gained through diverse routes, so if your qualifications differ from those mentioned - we still encourage you to apply! Please highlight any relevant experience or skills in your application.
We welcome applications from volunteers across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. (Please note: this is a volunteer, unpaid position.)
Our volunteers say:
" The Action Tutoring team has been fabulous in their support: timely updates, always available, closely following progress, and ready to intervene where needed, very professional indeed!"
"Volunteering is very rewarding. I would say the skills that one develops from teaching the pupils are transferable to any walk of life and make you a better person. I would highly recommend it."
Award-winning national education charity working towards a world in which no child’s life chances are limited by their socio-economic background.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Position Overview:
The Service Sales Specialist plays a dual role in driving programme enrollment and delivering exceptional service to prospective participants. Focused on sales and outreach, this position generates leads, conducts cold calls, and converts inquiries into enrollments for the employability and skills development programme. With a strong emphasis on meeting sales targets, the CSR will articulate the programme’s value proposition, address concerns, and guide prospects through the enrollment process while maintaining a participant-centric approach.
Key Responsibilities:
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Sales & Lead Generation:
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Proactively identify and engage potential participants through cold calling, email campaigns, social media outreach, and community partnerships.
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Achieve monthly enrollment targets by converting leads into committed participants, tracking conversion rates and pipeline progress.
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Participant Onboarding:
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Serve as the first point of contact for inquiries, providing detailed information about programme benefits, eligibility criteria, and enrollment steps.
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Guide prospects through the application process, ensuring a seamless transition from inquiry to enrollment.
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Customer Relationship Management (CRM):
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Maintain accurate records of leads, interactions, and conversions in the CRM system.
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Follow up with prospects to address concerns, nurture interest, and close enrollments.
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Reporting & Feedback:
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Provide weekly updates to the Programme Lead on sales performance, challenges, and market insights.
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Share participant feedback to improve programme positioning and outreach strategies.
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Compliance & Ethics:
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Adhere to organisational policies and ethical standards in all sales activities, ensuring transparency and respect for participant needs.
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Required Qualifications:
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Education: High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field preferred.
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Experience:
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2+ years in sales, telemarketing, or customer service roles with a proven track record of meeting/exceeding targets.
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Experience conducting cold calls, managing leads, and closing conversions.
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Skills:
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Strong persuasive communication and active listening skills.
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Proficiency in CRM systems and Google products (Forms, Docs, Sheets, Slides).
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Ability to articulate complex programme details in a clear, motivating manner.
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Resilience in handling objections and rejection.
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Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Qualified Counselling Supervisor to provide online supervision for our counsellors.
Responsibilities:
- Group Supervision:
- Facilitate fortnightly group supervision sessions for trainee counsellors.
- Create a safe, supportive, and reflective learning environment.
- Facilitate discussions around client work, ethical dilemmas, and professional development.
- Encourage self-awareness, critical thinking, and the integration of theory and practice.
- Provide constructive feedback and guidance to trainees.
- Monitor trainee progress and identify areas for development.
- Ethical and Professional Practice:
- Ensure supervision adheres to the ethical guidelines of the [Relevant Professional Body, e.g., BACP, UKCP].
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of supervision sessions.
- Stay up-to-date with current counselling theory, practice, and ethical guidelines.
- Recognise and manage potential conflicts of interest.
- Contribute to the development of the counselling service.
- Collaboration and Communication:
- Liaise with placement coordinators and other relevant staff as required.
- Provide timely feedback to trainees and placement coordinators.
- Maintain professional boundaries.
Person Specification:
Essential Criteria:
- Qualified and experienced counselling supervisor with a recognised supervision qualification.
- Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., BACP, UKCP) and adherence to their ethical framework.
- Significant experience in providing counselling supervision, particularly in a group setting.
- Demonstrable knowledge of counselling theory, practice, and ethical guidelines.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills.
- Ability to create a safe and supportive learning environment.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development.
- Ability to maintain clear and accurate records.
What difference will you make?
Ongoing Professional Development:
- Your support will help our counsellors stay up-to-date with the best practices
Client Safety:
- You will help to protect clients, ensuring that counsellors are working ethically and effectively
Quality Assurance:
You will help us ensure that our counselling services are delivered to a high standard
Applicants will be required to complete our application form, with request for references.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Lead Volunteer
Mind Retail
About the role
Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.
Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!
You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:
· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team
· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience
· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills
· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills
· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions
· Understanding of sales information, including takings
· Commercial knowledge and skills
· Understanding of policies and procedures
· Administrative skills
· IT skills
· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses
Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!
We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?
Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!
About You
- Commitment to our values & behaviours
- Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
- Flexible and adaptable approach
- Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
- Able to build good working relationships
- Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
- Willingness to learn
- Good customer service skills
- Good communication skills
About Mind Retail
Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.
Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.
Our Commitment
We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.
Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…
Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.
I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.
Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…
It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.
Mind Retail are a network of over 170 Mind charity shops across England and Wales.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Summary
The Sussex Area of the Ramblers has two Countryside Officers, one for East Sussex and one for West Sussex. The main activity in the role is to act on behalf of members where a reported planning development is likely to have an adverse effect on the walking environment in the Sussex countryside.
Description
The Ramblers, which celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2025, is the only charity dedicated to removing barriers so everyone can enjoy walking in green spaces, and to improving Britain’s most popular and least-known walking places. We’re committed to campaigning to keep our countryside open to all and to fighting for the things that matter most to walkers. We lead the way, and the walks, for a vibrant community united by the joys of walking, helping everyone get more out of their walks.
The role of East Sussex Area Countryside Officer involves reviewing planning applications published by Local Authorities and creating and submitting objections on behalf of Sussex Ramblers if an application is likely to have an adverse impact on the Sussex countryside and the places where people walk. Objections may be expressed in writing through a response to the planning process, but could also involve site visits and on occasions attendance at public hearings or meetings with representatives of Local Authorities or with other stakeholders such as Parish Councils and environmental and wildlife organisations.
The role holder will work closely with other Ramblers volunteers such as the East Sussex Area Footpath Officer, the West Sussex Area Countryside Officer and Local Footpath Wardens in East Sussex and where necessary will seek advice and guidance from Ramblers' Central Office. Other main contacts include the Local Authorities, Parish/Town Councils, the South Downs National Park Authority and the East Sussex Local Access Forum. The role holder will be a member of the Area leadership team (Area Council). You will need to be a member of the Ramblers and to live in or close to East Sussex.
What Impact will you have?
The Ramblers help everyone, everywhere, enjoy walking and protects the places we all love to walk. By volunteering as an Area Countryside Officer you will be paying a vital role in making sure we can achieve this by holding Local Authorities to account for planning decisions, and helping to ensure that our countryside and the places people walk, essential to health and wellbeing, are safeguarded.
Skills and Experience Required
You should have a passion for walking and for preservation and protection of the natural beauty of the countryside and the special qualities of urban space, and a good knowledge of the county. Experience and knowledge of the Local Authorities' planning process is not essential but would be an advantage. The role is suitable for someone who is highly reliable, organised, capable of taking initiative and with an ability to articulate strategic issues clearly in written and spoken form. A desire and ability to work in a team environment is essential. You will also need to be comfortable using a computer and the internet, and managing information.
Applicants should have a passion for walking and for preservation and protection of the natural beauty of the countryside and the special qualities of urban space, and a good knowledge of East Sussex. Experience and knowledge of the Local Authorities planning process is not essential but would be an advantage. The position is suitable for a mature professional individual who is highly reliable, organised, capable of taking initiative and with an ability to articulate strategic issues clearly in written form. A desire and ability to work in a team environment is essential. You will also need to be comfortable using a computer and the internet, and managing information.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Role
We're seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Sales & Business Development Volunteer to help drive our growth and expand our reach. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience in sales, business development, and relationship management while making a meaningful contribution to our cause.
Key Responsibilities
As a Sales & Business Development Volunteer, you'll work closely with our team to identify new opportunities and build lasting partnerships. Your responsibilities will include:
- Researching and identifying potential clients, business leads, sponsors, partners, and business opportunities.
- Supporting the development of sales strategies and outreach campaigns.
- Helping to create compelling proposals and presentations.
- Conducting initial outreach to prospective clients via email, phone, and social media
- Help maintain the contact database with updated leads and follow-up notes.
- Analysing market trends and competitor activities.
- Contributing ideas to improve our sales processes and materials.
- Reach out to companies, NGOs, and institutions to introduce TESYouth’s initiatives.
What We're Looking For
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Interest in sales, marketing, fundraising or business development
- Comfortable with technology and learning new systems
- Proactive, organised, and able to work independently.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- A positive attitude and desire to contribute to a social impact organisation.
(Previous experience in sales, customer service, social media for business purposes, marketing, or or business development is a plus, but not required.)
What You'll Gain
- Practical experience in sales and business development
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals
- Opportunity to build your professional network
- Development of valuable transferable skills
- Flexible working arrangements
Additional Information
- This is a voluntary role and can be carried out entirely remotely.
- All reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
About TESYouth
TESYouth (Training, Employment Opportunities & Social Development for Youth) is a social enterprise and not-for-profit organisation dedicated to reducing youth unemployment. Through training programmes, work experience, interactive workshops, and volunteering opportunities, we support young people in developing their skills and achieving their career aspirations.
Together with our collaborators and partners, we aim to make a lasting positive impact in the community.
TESYouth is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities.
Tackle and reduce youth unemployment by providing with the necessary tools to develop skills, aptitudes, knowledge and self-confidence.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for volunteers with parenting or child caring experience to support families for 2-3 hours per week, for a minimum of one year upon completing the preparation course.
We provide a preparation course for all volunteers before they start to visit families, which covers all the essential training and information you will require.
Qualifications and Characteristics
- No formal qualifications required
- Ability to communicate effectively and sensitively
- Ability to listen with a non-judgmental and caring approach
- Parenting and Childcaring experience
- Ability to empathies with others
- Awareness & sensitivity to different lifestyles and child rearing practice and attitudes
- Reliability & Commitment
- Sufficient English to participate fully in volunteer preparation course
- Willingness to learn and attend all Home Start Camden & Islington’s Volunteer training
- You should live in the Boroughs of Camden or Islington
What is it for you?
- Increased your self-confidence
- Help a family in need and become more involved in your community
- On-going training and support throughout this journey
- Opportunities to meet new people
- References provided after one year
- Good experience on the CV for future jobs
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
