Communications volunteer roles

Purpose of the Role

This volunteer role supports the delivery of a wellbeing project for male asylum seekers accommodated in hotels in Ealing. The service aims to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation, and provide culturally sensitive mental health support for individuals who may be experiencing stress, trauma, and uncertainty due to displacement.

Volunteers will support the delivery of group activities and informal support sessions that promote social connection, emotional wellbeing, and engagement with services. The role involves building rapport with residents, supporting activities, and helping individuals access support where needed.

Volunteers will work alongside the Mental Health (Asylum Seekers) Coordinator to create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment where residents feel comfortable participating in activities and seeking support.

Main Responsibilities

To support the Mental Health (Asylum Seekers) Coordinator in engaging residents and facilitating group activities that promote wellbeing, social connection, and access to support services.

Responsibilities include:

• Engage with asylum seeker residents in a friendly, respectful, and culturally sensitive manner
• Introduce residents to the wellbeing service and encourage participation in activities
• Help build rapport and trust with residents through informal conversation and engagement
• Support the onboarding of participants by assisting with forms and explaining the service
• Assist with facilitating group activities such as board games, expressive and creative activities.
• Encourage participation and inclusion during group activities
• Provide informal emotional support through active listening and supportive conversation
• Help create a welcoming and safe space for participants during sessions
• Support the preparation and organisation of activity materials and resources
• Assist with setting up and packing down activity spaces
• Identify and report any safeguarding concerns or welfare issues to the coordinator
• Maintain appropriate boundaries and follow guidance from staff when supporting residents

The type of person we are looking for:

• Friendly, approachable, and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Empathetic and non-judgemental attitude
• Interest in supporting people experiencing mental health challenges or social isolation
• Ability to work respectfully with people from different cultural backgrounds
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow guidance from staff
• Reliable and able to commit to the agreed volunteering hours
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and safeguarding

HFEH Mind value equal opportunities; and are proud to foster a workforce of volunteers and employees that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons from all backgrounds.

WL Mind are committed to creating and fostering a culture that promotes safeguarding and the welfare of all children and adults at risk. Our safer recruitment practices support this by ensuring that there is a consistent and thorough process of obtaining, collating, analysing and evaluating information from and about candidates to ensure that all persons appointed are suitable to work with children and vulnerable adults.

Post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Make a Smile is seeking a motivated and organised Chapter President to lead one of our local Chapters. This is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing committee operations, supporting volunteers, and ensuring the smooth running of all Chapter activities.

About Make a Smile

Make a Smile is a charity dedicated to bringing joy to children through character visits, events, and community engagement. Each Chapter is run by a volunteer committee, and the President plays a central role in guiding and supporting that team.

Role Overview

The Chapter President is responsible for the overall management, development, and compliance of their Chapter. You will lead the committee, coordinate activities, and act as the main link between your Chapter and the national Board of Trustees.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leading teams, solving problems, and making a meaningful impact in their community.

Key Responsibilities

• Local Leadership
• Oversee the day‑to‑day running of the Chapter and support committee members in their roles.
• Provide direction, guidance, and oversight across volunteer recruitment, events, fundraisers, and costume management.
• Chair committee meetings and ensure tasks are completed efficiently and on time.
• Identify when committee members need support and step in with advice, delegation, or hands‑on help.
• Complete and maintain the Chapter Development Plan and work towards improving Chapter performance each year.
• Ensure all activities comply with the charity’s constitution, handbook, and legal requirements.

National Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact between your Chapter and the Board of Trustees.
• Submit a monthly report on Chapter progress, challenges, and key decisions.
• Attend the monthly Charity Leadership Meeting to share updates and contribute to national planning.
• Implement national guidance and changes communicated by Trustees.
• Manage your Chapter’s allocated budget and support fundraising targets.
• Ensure all required paperwork is kept up‑to‑date, including logs, finances, and post‑event forms.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to motivate and support a team.
• Organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple responsibilities.
• Confident decision‑maker with a collaborative approach.
• Passionate about Make a Smile’s mission and working with volunteers.
• No prior charity leadership experience required — full training and guidance provided.

What You’ll Gain

• Leadership and management experience.
• Opportunities to develop strategic planning and organisational skills.
• A chance to make a real difference in your community.
• Experience working closely with a national charity board.
• A rewarding role where you help create magical experiences for children.

Summary

As Chapter President, you will:

• Lead and support your committee.
• Ensure effective operations and compliance.
• Drive Chapter development and improvement.
• Represent your Chapter at national level.
• Lead by example and uphold the values of Make a Smile

Summary

Can you inspire, energise and motivate young people aged 12-18 years?
Do you enjoy making a real difference to the lives of young people?

Detailed description

Mentoring within One YMCA is delivered through the youth team and volunteers. Young people aged 13-19 years can access the service which provides support and encouragement for young people to work towards their goals.

Mentors and mentees are paired based on experience, expertise and support needed.

This project will last for up to a year with each young person, with an average of 3-4 hours per month being given to the young person and their support.

Training for this role is due to commence on 22nd January 2025 (Time and Location TBC)

Pay: This is a voluntary role; however, expenses will be covered.

Key Responsibilities:

·To attend full induction training and complete all relevant child protection checks

·To arrange to meet with your mentee for 1-3 hours a month over a period of 12 months, in a public place.

·To prepare for your mentoring sessions with the purpose of progressing with their mutually agreed goals.

·To offer tailored support to your Mentee in areas such as confidence and resilience building, accessing services, careers focus and development. You may be working on a number of areas as the needs of your Mentee present themselves.

·To safeguard and promote the wellbeing of your Mentee.

·To complete feedback, monitoring and evaluation forms.

·To liaise with the mentoring coordinator for support in delivery of sessions where needed.

·To help identify the support that your Mentee requires, reporting any concerns you have to the mentoring coordinator.

·Completing regular reviews with your Mentee and mentoring coordinator.

·Any other reasonable task that is associated with the role.

Personal Specification:

Experience:

• Experience of working with young people
• Experience of working with young people from a variety of backgrounds

Skills:

• Ability to work on own initiative and a willingness to prepare for each session
• Ability to use online video platforms such as Microsoft Teams
• Ability to think creatively and problem solve
• Good communication skills
• Good organisational skills
• Ability to work as a part of a team
• A willingness to meet the young person in a public space

Personal Qualities:

• An interest in working with young people
• Ability to engage with a young person
• The willingness to have an open mind and non-judgemental approach to supporting a young person in their mentoring journey
• Ability to cope with potentially difficult conversations or situations
• Commitment to the mentoring project and to the Mentee
• Motivated by promoting the wellbeing of young people
• Commitment to and ability to work in accordance with ethos of One YMCA, their polices and boundaries

Other:

• Willing to undertake and induction and training
• Willing to provide 2 references
• Willing to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring check (DBS)

Department: Financial Wellbeing

Role Location: Community

Role Support: You will be supported by the Project Coordinator

What is the purpose of this role?

To provide support to the Project Coordinator in delivering engaging Scam Awareness events within communities across Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire.

What impact does this role have?

Our Scam Awareness Events provide vital information and support to older people, helping them recognise scams, protect themselves from fraud, and access support when needed.

By providing support at these events, you will have the opportunity to liaise directly with people who have been affected by scams or may be vulnerable to them. By supporting community events, you can help older people access information, build confidence, and learn how to protect themselves from scams.

What activities might you be involved in?

Ø  Help set up and pack away event materials and information stands

Ø  Welcome and speak with attendees, helping to create a friendly and inclusive environment

Ø  Chat with members of the public and signpost them to information

Ø  Support people to access digital information using their own devices where appropriate

Ø  Distribute leaflets and awareness materials

Ø  Help raise awareness of current scams and fraud trends

Ø  Support the collection of feedback from attendees

Ø  Pass on questions or concerns to the Project Coordinator when further support is needed

Ø  Carry out the volunteer role in line with the Charity's policies and procedures, and adhere to the Volunteer Code of Conduct

What are we looking for?

Ø  Have an interest in supporting older and vulnerable people within their local community.

Ø  Are friendly, approachable and enthusiastic

Ø  Are keen to help raise awareness of scams and fraud prevention

Ø  Have good communication and interpersonal skills

Ø  Possess good digital skills and confidence using a range of digital devices and online platforms

Ø  Understand the need for confidentiality

Ø  Are able to travel to events throughout Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire using their own transport or public transport

When would you be needed to volunteer?

Most volunteering sessions last around 4 to 5 hours (& typically take place on a Wednesday or Thursday), including travel time, event set-up and tidying away afterwards.

We welcome volunteers who can offer regular support. Where several volunteers are involved, opportunities can be shared on a rota basis to provide flexibility.

 What training will you be given?

You will be given all the training you need to enable you to carry out your role which will include a thorough departmental induction.

 What can you gain from this opportunity?

· The chance to make a difference to older people’s lives

· Ongoing support, ensuring your volunteering experience is a fulfilling and positive one

· A comprehensive training programme

· The opportunity to learn new skills

· Experience to add to your CV

· The opportunity to meet new people and make new friends

· Reimbursement of travel expenses as defined in the Age UK Notts Volunteer Handbook

Additional Information

Please note a Basic DBS check is required for this role which will be undertaken by the Charity at no cost to the volunteer, after being offered the role.

Do you want to help raising vital funds for Scope, the disability equality charity?

Do you thrive in an exciting and inclusive working environment?

Do you have a few hours a week to support our ecommerce operation?

You might like our warehouse volunteer role!
 

About this role

You will be vital to the work of our ecommerce hub helping to sort, quality check and monitor donated products from our corporate partners.

• Your role may include:
• sorting donated pallets of stock ready for sale
• quality checking products to sort the good from the bad
• scanning products to trade in, such as books and CDs
• helping to pack orders to go our shops
• helping keep our warehouse tidy and our stock system accurate
• When and where
• You will be in our Scope Ecommerce Hub. The hub is based at 19 to 20 Guide Street, Salford M50 1BX. We can be flexible on the times you would like to volunteer. Our hub opening times (Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm). We’d love your help for as little as 1 hour a week, but if you can give more time that would help us even more
   

Who we are looking for

We welcome anyone who is passionate about disability equality and willing to support our work! You must be over 18 years old. You will need to feel comfortable working in a large busy warehouse environment and be able to lift and carry items, although we have a forklift truck to assist with heavier items.

Some volunteers want to learn more about charities or about retail. Others want to make a difference to the lives of disabled people. Other volunteers are interested in our training and development opportunities. Some people join us to meet new people and make friends. Sometimes people want to help a charity shop they like shopping in, while also getting a discount online!
We particularly welcome applications from disabled people. Equality and inclusion are at the heart of Scope’s mission. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all volunteers.
 

Skills and experience you can gain

• teamwork
• organisation
• warehousing
• ecommerce
• communication
• stock preparation and management
• health and safety
• valuable experience for your CV
• experience of a large, national disability charity

What we can offer you

• introduction to Scope
• demonstration of your tasks
• training courses, in person and online
• personal development opportunities
• support and regular catchups from a dedicated manager
• agreed travel expenses
• adjustments to make the role accessible for you
• work experience for your CV
• a work reference
• 20% discount in our Scope eBay shop
• safety shoes and a hi vis jacket will be provided

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Scope is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children and adults at risk, whether receiving services or being staff or volunteers. It expects all trustees, staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Volunteering at Scope
Scope is a disability equality charity providing practical information, emotional support and campaigning for a fairer society. As a volunteer in our warehouse, you’ll help raise vital funds for our work towards everyday equality for disabled people. You will make a real difference to the lives of disabled people and their families.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility 

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

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

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility 

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

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

Independent Visitor Volunteer 

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

As an Independent Visitor Volunteer in England, you might: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safeguarding Commitment Statement 

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

ED&I Statement 

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

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

To find out more click “Apply Now”.  

Ready to make a difference to a young person’s life? Team Up is recruiting inspirational role models to tutor Maths or English to pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds on one of our in-person school programmes in London or the South. Gain invaluable skills and improve your employability whilst supporting young people reach their full academic potential!

You will be matched to a small group of disadvantaged pupils who are currently underperforming in school. Equipped with full training and detailed lesson plans, you will provide them with the academic support, encouragement and inspiration they need to get back on track. All our volunteer tutors receive full training and support from a Team Up programme throughout the programme. Your programme lead, who is a qualified teacher, will be present at each tuition session.

How does it work?

•  You can choose between tutoring Maths or English at your preferred school programme that fits your timetable (depending on availability of placements)
•  Our programmes run for a full school term: Autumn (Sep to Dec) and Spring (Jan to Mar), Summer (Apr to Jul)
•  You will be expected to volunteer for one full school term (10-12 weeks)
•  Sessions are between 60-90 minutes and will take place on a fixed day of the week
•  You will be provided with training and teaching resources.
•  We will arrange a free of charge enhanced DBS check
•  Travel expenses up to £15 per attended session are covered

Why You'll Love It: 

You can make a real change! The majority of our pupils double their expected progress during one programme, become more resilient and gain a lot more confidence in their own learning! 

Not only will you have a meaningful experience and learn new skills, you will also be able to make use of a full range of benefits that we offer to our tutors, such as a personalised reference, and access to free seminars/workshops and a career mentor. This is a great opportunity to enhance your CV and improve your employability - all whilst tutoring young people from low-income backgrounds! 

What You'll Learn: 

•  You will gain important transferable skills including leadership, communication, time management and teaching skills
•  You will receive full tutor-training and ongoing support from an experienced professional during your placement
•  We offer lesson observations alongside developmental feedback and logged classroom hours

What We're Looking For: 

•  Enthusiasm and strong grades in the subject you wish to tutor in
•  Committed, patient and organised individuals who are keen to develop new skills
•  Good interpersonal skills when dealing with pupils
• Individuals who are passionate about closing the attainment gap in education and improving social mobility

FareShare Greater Manchester is looking for volunteer Driver's Assistants to join our busy friendly delivery team with redistributing tonnes of surplus food a month to charities and community initiatives across Greater Manchester.

FareShare is a national charity fighting food poverty and global warming by tackling food surplus. We source overstocked food from retailers and manufacturers and engage many volunteers to help re-distribute it to over 220 frontline charities and community groups across Greater Manchester. These groups, in turn, provide meals to vulnerable people experiencing food poverty, individuals who are homeless, families, and people who are unemployed or socially isolated. This food would otherwise have gone to waste, so we are simultaneously supporting people in need and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Key responsibilities

Working closely with the driver of a temperature-controlled 3.5 tonne Mercedes Sprinter van to deliver surplus food orders to the premises of the benevolent projects we support. 

Loading and unloading the vehicle and carrying out a range of tasks, from basic vehicle checks to delivery administration.

The required skills and attributes are:

• Reliability and ability to commit to pre-agreed volunteer shifts (ESSENTIAL)

• Physical fitness, to take on moving and handling of food orders

• Ability to follow procedures and instructions

• Good verbal communication skills

• Interest in the work of FareShare Greater Manchester and our values

• High respect for Health & Safety procedures and standards

In return you will gain:

Career and CV advice and support

A reference for future employers

Reimbursement of travel and lunch expenses 

The opportunity to give practical help to fight food poverty and reduce food waste (and associated CO2 emissions)

The opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends

Our operating hours are Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.

Driver and Driver’s Assistant shifts begin at 8:30am. 

We welcome volunteers who can commit to one day a week. 

The days and rota hours of volunteering are agreed around your availability.

​IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us. There are no exceptions to this rule. This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles. We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.

Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)

Read Easy UK provides free, confidential, one-to-one reading coaching for adults who struggle with reading, delivered through a dedicated network of local volunteer groups. Across the country, our volunteers are helping adults gain the skills and confidence to read, opening the door to new opportunities in work, family life and everyday independence.

As the Team Leader you are responsible for the proper and effective direction of your local group. This role will appeal to 
someone with enthusiasm and energy who will enjoy managing a team of diverse volunteers. Ideally, the Team Leader will remain in this role for at least two years.

You will be provided with a full induction and training, a Management Team Handbook and all the policies, and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser, as well as support from your local group. You will also be invited to Read Easy UK’s regional and national forums which create opportunity for you to network with volunteers from other groups.

What you will be doing
● Be a visible ambassador for your group, building meaningful relationships with stakeholders and representing Read Easy with pride.
● Champion the reputation of your group and Read Easy UK, helping everyone uphold the organisation’s values.
● Leading your group to develop strategically, so that it functions effectively in delivering reading coaching to as many people as possible.
● Inspiring and supporting team members, helping them thrive and enjoy the roles they love and managing succession planning for the group.
● Leading the Management Team in setting goals and planning activities
● Delegating projects to your Deputy Leader, such as setting up a new hub or developing remote coaching for your group, to reach even more people eager to learn to read.
● Ensuring that everyday tasks are delegated and effectively completed so that all on the Management Team are able to contribute to the success of Read Easy locally.
● Providing encouragement and support to Hub Leaders to help hubs grow and succeed.
● Leading meetings and setting agendas.
● Playing a vital role in ensuring the group meets its Constitution and Affiliation requirements, and that the guidance from Read Easy provided to keep things running smoothly is followed
● Liaising with other Team Leaders to discuss issues and share best practice
● Building strong relationships with your Read Easy UK Regional Adviser. 

The skills you need
● Strong leadership and team management skills and experience, with ability to motivate and inspire trust and confidence in others.
● An ability to think and act strategically, set goals, plan work and delegate.
● A willingness and ability to challenge others, deal with underperformance and manage conflict when necessary.
● Reasonable confidence in using IT. 
● The ability to use initiative and work independently. 
● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures. 
● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team. 
● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included. 
● Energy and enthusiasm with four to five hours a week to commit to the role. 

About Roots Academy
Roots Academy’s Vision.
A generation of young Muslims who embody and promote a God-centred way of life.
At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers, and visionaries. Our mission is to deliver a structured and transformative education in the Essentials of Islam in a way that lowers barriers to access, develops deep certainty, and inspires action.

Why Does Roots Academy Exist?
Crisis of Faith: 1 in 4 young Muslims are leaving the religion due to various factors, primarily the pervasive anti-religious content and temptations they encounter online and offline.
Roots Academy exists to bridge this gap by providing a structured and transformative Islamic education that speaks directly to the needs and challenges of young Muslims today, delivered in an engaging and accessible form that provokes thought and action.

Role Summary
To bring our vision to life, you will play a key role in shaping how Roots Academy’s message is delivered visually. As a Video Editor, you will be responsible for editing high-quality, engaging video content that supports our educational programs, strengthens our online presence, and helps our content resonate deeply with audiences across social platforms.

Key tasks

• Edit short-form and long-form video content for platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and other digital channels.
• Apply consistent pacing, subtitles, branding, and visual style in line with Roots Academy guidelines.
• Collaborate closely with content leads, instructors, and the marketing team to deliver videos aligned with campaign goals.
• Manage feedback, revisions, and version control efficiently.
• Organise and maintain video assets and project files in shared drives.

What we’re looking for

• Passion for Islamic education and contributing to the development of young Muslims.
• Strong video editing skills using tools such as Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or equivalent.
• An eye for storytelling, pacing, and visual clarity — especially for short-form social content.
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple edits at once.
• Clear communication and openness to feedback.

What we have to offer

• Be part of a team of 100+ dedicated volunteers across the UK, Ireland, Canada, US, UAE, and Australia.
• Receive continuous rewards for those who seek Islamic knowledge through the Roots platform.
• Be part of a growing organisation focused on grassroots revival and education.
• Access to in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen.

Please note: This is an unpaid volunteer position.
Volunteers are entitled to claim expenses incurred for food, travel, and equipment, in line with our Expenses Policy.

About The Stray Cat Charity (TSCC)

The Stray Cat Charity is a newly established UK-registered CIO working to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome stray cats in Greece, starting in Patras. Our current priority campaign is to raise £35,000 to build a dedicated stray cat shelter in Patras, Greece, which will provide safe housing, veterinary care, and a pathway to adoption for vulnerable cats. As a growing new charity, we are building our fundraising and outreach network across the UK.

Role Purpose

We are looking for a motivated volunteer to support the growth of our charity by helping identify and connect with potential supporters in their local area. This includes community groups, schools, corporates, and potential major donors who may be interested in supporting or fundraising for stray cats in Greece. The aim of this role is to help generate awareness, build relationships, and support fundraising activity for our current and future campaigns.

Key Responsibilities

The volunteer may support with:

• Researching local community groups, schools, faith groups, and businesses
• Identifying potential corporate partners and supporters in their region
• Contacting organisations to introduce The Stray Cat Charity and its mission
• Encouraging groups to support the charity through donations or fundraising
• Promoting our current campaign to raise £35,000 for a stray cat shelter in Patras, Greece
• Supporting or initiating community fundraising activities where appropriate (e.g. sponsored events, school fundraisers, awareness campaigns)
• Helping to raise awareness of stray cat welfare issues in Greece through local outreach

Fundraising Options

Volunteers may either:

• Focus on outreach and relationship-building, or
• Actively support or lead local fundraising efforts for the charity’s campaigns

Ideal Volunteer

We are looking for someone who is:

• Confident communicating with people and organisations
• Passionate about animal welfare
• Self-motivated and able to work independently
• Comfortable researching and reaching out to potential supporters
• Interested in community engagement or fundraising

About the Charity

The Stray Cat Charity is a new organisation, meaning volunteers will play a key role in shaping our growth, impact, and fundraising success from the ground up.

Support Provided

We will provide:

• Guidance on messaging and outreach
• Information about the charity and campaigns
• Ongoing support and communication from the founder/trustee

Impact of This Role

Your work will directly contribute to raising vital funds to build a safe shelter in Patras, Greece, improving the lives of stray cats and creating long-term sustainable welfare solutions.

Providing a confidential non-judgemental listening ear to Residents and Staff. Supporting those wishing to develop their spiritual journey from a Christian perspective. The role will be based across one of our hostels in Watford, Borehamwood, Bishop's Stortford, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield or High Wycombe, 

Activities include:

• Proactively engaging with Residents and staff to build safe relationships and trust
• Offering a ‘listening ear’ to all and giving emotional support
• Sensitively discerning when to offer prayer and support from a Christian perspective, and when to use faith based language
• Be inclusive and welcoming to people of all religious faiths and none, referring people to other faith communities as appropriate
• Working alongside support staff, volunteers & local agencies
• Maintaining records of support and feeding back concerns about Resident welfare to Staff/Line Manager.
• Attend regular volunteer team meetings
• Being proactive in seeking spiritual and emotional support for your own benefit as this is a challenging role.

Additional activities could include:

• Facilitating group work for example: Retreat Programme, Bible Study, prayer or Mental Health Support.
• Welcoming new Residents by phone or in person
• Leading or helping with Chaplaincy lead events: Easter/Christmas activities, Remembrance Services
• Being an ambassador for YMCA’s mission in local Churches

Skills/Qualities/Experience:

• Be a good and active listener who can support others
• Be of a friendly, welcoming and cheerful disposition
• Self-motivated, reliable and punctual
• Sensitivity and courage to care for people experiencing a range of distressing situations including: grief, trauma, poor mental health, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts.
• A commitment to your own spiritual development
• A good understanding of the Christian faith, as well as some understanding of other faith traditions
• Ability to use both faith and non-faith based language, as appropriate
• Good communication skills in English; in person & over the phone
• A willingness to learn new things and get stuck in
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Respect the Christian ethos of the YMCA and uphold its values
• Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have

Training Support:

• A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided
• A one day ‘Chaplaincy Essentials’ training, plus a menu of additional training will be made available
• Online training: Safeguarding (Adults & Young People), Fire Awareness, Manual Handling
• Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings with your line-manager
• Team meetings and social events
• Mileage and expenses may be payable

You will need 2 x references and a DBS (we will apply for and fund this). 

Monday to Friday (any day welcome) 2 to 4pm

We are looking for a friendly and reliable Resident Engagement Support Volunteer to help create a welcoming and positive environment for residents living in our accommodation in Welwyn Garden City, and Hatfied hostels.

This is a flexible role that will begin with a focus on befriending and social connection. Volunteers will help open the residents’ café, serve teas and coffees, and spend time chatting with residents to help build rapport and reduce social isolation.

As confidence and relationships develop, the role can be shaped around the volunteer’s interests, skills and ideas. We welcome volunteers who may wish to support additional activities such as games, quizzes, crafts, wellbeing activities, cooking sessions, or sharing practical life skills.

No specialist experience is required - just a warm approach, good listening skills and a willingness to engage with people.

Key Responsibilities

· Opening and helping run the residents’ café during the afternoon session.

· Preparing and serving teas, coffees and refreshments.

· Offering a friendly welcome to residents.

· Spending time talking with residents and building positive relationships.

· Encouraging residents to take part in social activities, signposting to staff where additional support is needed.

· Supporting or helping to organise simple activities such as board games, crafts or quizzes.

· Sharing personal skills or hobbies where appropriate (for example cooking, baking or creative activities).

· Co-designing activities based on resident feedback and interest

· Work alongside staff to create a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for residents.

· Uphold One YMCA’s safeguarding, confidentiality, and health & safety policies at all times.

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

· Friendly, approachable, and non-judgemental.

· Good listening and communication skills.

· Flexible, reliable, and willing to help in a variety of ways.

· Creativity and good knowledge on specific activities to be delivered

· Able to work as part of a team while respecting professional boundaries.

· Experience of working or volunteering with vulnerable people who may have experienced challenges such as homelessness and mental health (desirable). Volunteers should be able to respond with empathy to residents' emotions, maintain appropriate boundaries, and recognise when concerns or situations need to be escalated to a member of staff.

· Respectful of diversity and inclusive of people from all backgrounds.

Training / Support

· A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided.

· Requirement to undertake One YMCA online training courses, including safeguarding; Health & Safety Awareness and Manual Handling where appropriate.

· To understand and implement One YMCA’s policies.

· Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings with your line manager

· Access to organisational events throughout the year including a Volunteer’s Celebration and Annual conference

Additional Information

· You will be required to undergo a DBS check

· Two references will be required

Length of Placement: 2 months minimum, with opportunity to extend

Help Us Reach More People

Volunteer SEO Expert needed to launch Long Covid Support's new digital home

What will you be doing (role overview)?:

Long Covid Support is moving to a new website and stepping forward with a fresh brand identity. We need an SEO expert to help us get it right from day one. This is a chance to make a real impact. You'll be at the heart of our digital launch, collaborating closely with our volunteer team, brand advisors, and IT support to ensure our new website reaches the people who need it most.

What are we looking for (about you)?

Essential skills and experience:

· Solid knowledge of SEO principles and practices (on-page optimisation, technical SEO, keyword research, etc.)

· Experience with Google Analytics and ability to set up meaningful tracking

· Able to use Squarespace

· Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical people

· Enthusiasm for working with a charity and making a difference

· Good communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams

Nice to have:

· Experience with Google Ad Grants

· Understanding of website transitions and migration SEO

What difference will you make:

When people search for help, we want them to find us. Better SEO means our new website reaches more people with Long Covid at the moment they're looking for support. Your work will directly help us expand our reach and impact.

Key Responsibilities:

· Meet with our project lead to establish our needs, set realistic timeframes, and design an effective SEO approach for us

· Ensure effective traffic is directed to our new site, including managing connections to our old site where advisable

· Lead keyword optimisation as a result of our name and brand change

· Set up Google Analytics to help us gather robust, high-quality data from our new website

· Collaborate with our team, brand advisors, and existing IT support to ensure you have all the information and access you need

· Advise on Google Ad Grants services once SEO work has concluded - the role could extend if you're interested in developing this workstream

· Technical requirement: You'll need to be comfortable using Squarespace, as this is where our new website is hosted. We'll provide access and support.

Application Process:

To apply please upload your CV.

Equal ops statement:

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We provide equal opportunities for all, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We actively encourage applications from all individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience of Long Covid.

Ready to make a difference? We'd love to hear from you.