Community volunteer roles

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!

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 Newham

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer 

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:

• Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
• Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
• Raise concerns
• Keep detailed notes and records
• Make a real difference to someone’s life

Hospital Visitor Volunteer – Mondays and Wednesdays 9 am- 4 pm  

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:

• hold drop-in sessions
• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
• share information
• assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre

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:

• help people have their say when it matters most
• Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
• 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”

St John’s Lichfield is an almshouse charity with origins going back to 1495 whose main object is to provide accommodation for poor persons in need.Whether you are an experienced trustee or want to take on this work for the first time, we would very much like to hear from you.

Due to the recent retirement of long serving members we are looking for enthusiastic new people to join our Board of Trustees.

St John’s Lichfield is an almshouse charity with origins going back to 1495 whose main object is to provide accommodation for poor persons in need. We own and manage 42 apartments, which are designed for comfortable and independent living, on 2 separate sites in Lichfield city centre: one in the Cathedral Close, the other at St. John’s without the Barrs (SJWTB) which includes its own chapel. At present we have an active and thriving community of 47 residents whose ages range from 44 to 93, though we have no restriction on age.  

Our constitution also allows us to make grants to individuals in need or to organisations which provide help for such persons. All of our beneficiaries must already be resident in the Diocese of Lichfield.

We rely on our investments to supplement the maintenance contributions received from our residents.

 Whether you are an experienced trustee or want to take on this work for the first time, we would very much like to hear from you.

While we would be pleased to have people with skills in finance and accounting, business, capital projects, social care and the benefits system, what matters most is an interest in our charity, its history, its buildings and its people, and a desire to make a difference to our residents’ lives.

As a Trustee you will benefit from:

 · induction, training and reimbursable expenses,

· opportunities to make strategic decisions, develop new skills and Influence the shape of new projects, and

· having the chance to improve health and wellbeing of all those within the St. John’s community.

 The expected time commitment is attendance at 6 Trustee meetings per year which normally last for 2 hours, one full day strategy meeting and potentially some committee work. We also find that attendance at residents’ functions which are held regularly, the annual Christmas lunch and the Patronal festival enhances the enjoyment of the role for most Trustees. 

Age UK Milton Keynes is looking for keen individuals to join our Board - people who want to make a real and positive difference on quality of life for older people and would like to share their skills and ideas for the benefit of the charity. 

Age UK Milton Keynes is a local independent charity working to improve the quality of life for all the older people living in Milton Keynes.  We do this by providing a range of services which help people to stay in their own homes.  We also provide a social network to help keep our clients involved with their community as well as working closely with other organisations who can provide support.

As our organisation represents all older people in Milton Keynes, it is important that our Board also represents our diverse community.  Therefore, we encourage applications from a broad range of applicants, especially currently under-represented groups.

You will be willing to apply your skills and experience in regular Board meetings, (4 per year all day), Trustee only meetings (2 per year) as well as other ad hoc meetings around your subject matter expertise as may be needed. 

We welcome enthusiastic and focused applicants who can offer knowledge and expertise in the following areas:

• Fundraising
• Financial Management
• Social Care Sector
• Governance
• Equity Diversity and Inclusion

However, if your skills lie in other directions, we would still love to hear from you!

The Board is looking to establish more robust succession planning for the Chairperson and Treasurer - so would welcome such ambitions, leadership and expertise in new members.

Whether you’re an experienced Trustee or wanting to take your first step, we would like to hear from you.

PLEASE NOTE THAT UNFORTUNATELY WE ARE UNABLE TO TAKE APPLICANTS WHO ARE NOT RESIDENT IN THE UK

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

As a Health and Safety Volunteer you’ll make sure all local group volunteers are aware of their health and safety responsibilities. You’ll help them understand and follow guidelines and procedures to coordinate safe activities.

In this role you’ll gain experience of health and safety, as well as develop your organisation, admin and communication skills.

We are seeking a chair in waiting to join our board. If you have management or professional experience in the third, public or private sector, want to make a difference to people at risk of hunger or destitution, and share our values, we might have a role for you. 

What will you be doing?

We are seeking someone with experience working at a senior level within the voluntary, public or private sectors and experience of being on a board of trustees i to succeed the current chair who is retiring from the role in 2026. 

Our intention is that the person recruited spends some time shadowing the work of the chair and familiarising themselves with every aspect of the organisation before taking over the reins before the end of the calendar year. 

What are we looking for?

Our ideal candidate would demonstrate: 

• An understanding of, and commitment to, the work of foodbanks and tackling poverty.
• Senior management experience in the voluntary, public or private sectors, including the development, implementation and review of strategies/business plans.

• Experience of being a trustee within a voluntary or community organisation.

What difference will you make?

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team that provides a vital service in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience for people in financial crisis and facing hunger.

CONTEXT

The Women & Families Resource Centre (WFRC) is a registered charity based in

Wolverhampton which supports, empowers and advocates for women and children.

We aim to actively encourage women to be self-reliant, through empowering them to

identify their own needs, make their own choices and create their own solutions. We

offer a baby bank, a charity shop & various community support services to help

women facing crises or challenging situations.

Wolverhampton Baby Bank is a flagship project run by The Women & Families

Resource Centre, a registered charity supporting families with children aged 0-3.

Through donated essentials and community engagement, we provide much-needed

items such as:

• Essential supplies for babies and toddlers, including nappies, wipes, clothing, toys,

and bedding.

• Support services for new parents, including drop-in groups and befriending for

pregnant women and new mothers.

• Referrals and resources to connect families with additional community services.

Scope and Span

The Listing, Inventory & Photography Officer is responsible for accurately recording, organizing, and visually documenting donated items within the Baby Bank.

This role ensures that all items are properly listed, photographed, categorized, and updated in the inventory system to maintain transparency, quality control, and efficient distribution.

Volunteer Guidelines

Thank you for volunteering with The Women & Families Resource Centre (WFRC). Our work supports and empowers women and families facing challenging circumstances, and your role is essential in helping us provide consistent, reliable, and respectful services. To ensure fairness, sustainability, and high-quality support for the community, all volunteers are expected to follow the structured framework and guidelines below.

• Minimum of 12hrs per week and 4hrs per day

• Attend agreed shifts consistently and provide notice if unable to attend.

• Carry out agreed tasks responsibly, maintaining professionalism and confidentiality at all times.

• Treat service users, staff, and fellow volunteers with respect and compassion.

• Communicate openly about availability, concerns, or if feeling overwhelmed to prevent burnout and overcommitment.

• Follow agreed scheduling processes to ensure continuity and consistency in service delivery.

• Work collaboratively as part of the team and report any safeguarding concerns immediately.

Your commitment and reliability help us create a stable and supportive environment for the families we serve.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Record all approved donated items into the inventory system

• Categorize items by type, size, age range, and condition

• Take clear photographs of items for listing in the online platform

• Ensure items are correctly labeled and stored in designated areas

• Update stock levels and item status in tracking sheets or inventory tools

• Coordinate with Sorting Team to confirm item condition before listing

• Maintain organized digital folders for item photos

• Flag missing, damaged, or mismatched inventory to the Team Lead

• Follow all operational SOPs for data entry and documentation
   

Qualifications

• Minimum high school education (college level preferred)

• Basic experience in admin, inventory, data entry, or photography preferred

• Comfortable using Google Drive, Sheets, or Excel

• Basic knowledge of smartphone or camera photography

• Available for required volunteer or assigned hours

Skills

• Strong attention to detail

• Basic photography skills (clear framing, proper lighting, consistency)

• Data entry accuracy

• Organization and file management

• Time management

• Ability to follow structured processes

• Team collaboration

CONTEXT

The Women & Families Resource Centre (WFRC) is a registered charity based in

Wolverhampton which supports, empowers and advocates for women and children.

We aim to actively encourage women to be self-reliant, through empowering them to

identify their own needs, make their own choices and create their own solutions. We

offer a baby bank, a charity shop & various community support services to help

women facing crises or challenging situations.

Wolverhampton Baby Bank is a flagship project run by The Women & Families

Resource Centre, a registered charity supporting families with children aged 0-3.

Through donated essentials and community engagement, we provide much-needed

items such as:

• Essential supplies for babies and toddlers, including nappies, wipes, clothing, toys,

and bedding.

• Support services for new parents, including drop-in groups and befriending for

pregnant women and new mothers.

• Referrals and resources to connect families with additional community services.

Scope and Span

The Executive Assistant provides high-level administrative and operational support directly to the Executive Director (Karyne). This role ensures the Executive Director’s time, priorities, communication, and strategic initiatives are well-managed and executed efficiently.

The Executive Assistant acts as a gatekeeper, coordinator, and trusted support partner to enable the Owner to focus on leadership, growth, and strategic decision-making.

Volunteer Guidelines

Thank you for volunteering with The Women & Families Resource Centre (WFRC). Our work supports and empowers women and families facing challenging circumstances, and your role is essential in helping us provide consistent, reliable, and respectful services. To ensure fairness, sustainability, and high-quality support for the community, all volunteers are expected to follow the structured framework and guidelines below.

• Minimum of 12hrs per week and 4hrs per day

• Attend agreed shifts consistently and provide notice if unable to attend.

• Carry out agreed tasks responsibly, maintaining professionalism and confidentiality at all times.

• Treat service users, staff, and fellow volunteers with respect and compassion.

• Communicate openly about availability, concerns, or if feeling overwhelmed to prevent burnout and overcommitment.

• Follow agreed scheduling processes to ensure continuity and consistency in service delivery.

• Work collaboratively as part of the team and report any safeguarding concerns immediately.

Your commitment and reliability help us create a stable and supportive environment for the families we serve.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Manage the Owner’s calendar, appointments, and scheduling

• Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, and document action points

• Screen and prioritize emails and communications

• Draft correspondence and internal communications on behalf of the Owner

• Track key projects and follow up on action items

• Support planning of events, campaigns, or strategic initiatives

• Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations when required

• Liaise with internal managers and external stakeholders

• Maintain confidential records and sensitive information

• Assist with operational oversight when delegated

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Executive Assistant, Personal Assistant, or similar role preferred

• Strong administrative and organizational background

• Comfortable using Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and communication tools

• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion

• Highly reliable and detail-oriented

Skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication

• High level of professionalism and discretion

• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks

• Problem-solving and proactive thinking

• Strong coordination and follow-up ability

• Emotional intelligence and stakeholder management

At Oxfam, we're not just selling pre-loved items and unique finds – we're working together to build a radically better world. With your help, we will turn pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.

Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:

Be a Second-hand Superhero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring collections – retail therapy with a purpose!

Increase Your Skills: If you have a particular interest, you can build on it to gain valuable retail experience to add to your CV, such as merchandising, customer service, and teamwork.

Find Your Community: Meet like-minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.

Flexibility: We know life gets busy. That's why we offer flexible volunteering options. A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!

What happens next?

After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do help out. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!

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

Unfortunately, thousands of cats each year are abandoned or have strayed and rely on charities like Cats Protection for help. Becoming a trap, neuter and return (TNR) volunteer is one way you can make a real difference to cats in your local area. Our TNR volunteers help reduce the number of feral cats by raising awareness of our TNR programmes, setting humane traps to safely capture cats, taking them to local vets to be neutered, and hopefully returning them back to their territory. Local TNR programmes are crucial, as feral and abandoned cats present a huge challenge for communities across the UK.

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

About the Demonstrator role

Demonstrators play a huge part in St John being able to deliver education and care in communities, with Demonstrators supporting the delivery of all of our training to volunteers and the public. If you choose to apply for this role, you will have the opportunity to ensure outstanding quality training is provided to our people, enabling them to carry out their roles to a high standard.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride in delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:
Welcome Event (Induction) - 16/05/2026 time and location to be advised
Training for role - date, times and location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/03/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. But if you have any experience or particular interest, tell us; it may be helpful. It’s really easy to get your volunteering started; simply click on ‘Apply Now’ and we’ll be in touch.

About the Role

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C and our mission is to increase inclusion and representation for disabled families across society. We offer a variety of services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails, and more.

We are looking for volunteers to help us apply for and secure funding to support our valuable work. This role can be done remotely, with no fixed rota, and the amount of time you give is flexible.

Who Are We Looking For?

• Interested in fundraising or securing funding

• May have experience in the community or charity sector

• May have a legal or corporate background

• Willingness to learn, motivated, and proactive

• Organised and detail-oriented

• Positive attitude and collaborative

What Do We Expect?

• Willingness to undertake our virtual training programme at a time convenient to you

• Have a basic DBS check (preferably on the update system) or be willing to complete one with us

• Sign our volunteer contract (we are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments if needed)

• A positive and inclusive attitude toward disability and illness

What Can You Expect?

• A supportive, kind, and nurturing team that values its volunteers

• Flexibility – contribute at times that suit you

• Supportive approach to accessibility and accommodations

Benefits of Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C.

• Make a tangible difference in your community

• Develop skills in fundraising, research, and grant applications

• Enhance your CV and demonstrate reliability to future employers

• Explore new areas of interest and take on additional tasks if desired

• Build confidence while contributing to meaningful work

Are you a safeguarding professional looking to make a tangible difference in the lives of young Londoners? By joining our board, you will help shape safeguarding strategy, strengthen our organisational culture and ensure that CYP continues to provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment for all its members.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safeguarding Oversight: Provide strategic oversight of safeguarding and child protection across the organisation and report to the Board.
• Policy & Compliance: Ensure safeguarding and child protection policies are up to date, effectively implemented, and meet all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Advice & Support: Act as a point of guidance for the Board and staff on safeguarding matters, including responding appropriately to concerns.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR 

We need someone who is organised, communicative, and shares our values.

• Safeguarding Experience: Background in safeguarding, child protection, education, youth work, social care, or a related field.
• Local: Someone who understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing young people in London today.
• Good Judgement: Ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion and confidence.
• Commitment: A strong commitment to keeping young people safe and helping a small, high-impact organisation grow responsibly.

WHY JOIN US?

• Make an Impact: Directly influence the success of a project that changes lives in your community.
• Governance Experience: Build your CV with high-level Board experience.
• Networking: Connect with a diverse group of passionate professionals and community leaders.

We are seeking someone with understanding or experience of community and grant fundraising to join our board. The role involves leading our fundraising sub committee and providing a sounding board for our fundraising manager to deliver our fundraising strategy. 

What will you be doing?

Specific to the fundraising lead trustee role, your responsibilities will be to:

• Lead the fundraising sub committee.
• Work alongside the board to plan what level of funds must be raised to ensure the effective running of the charity.
• Be a sounding board for, and provide oversight of our fundraising manager.
• Lead on the board’s direct engagement with local fund-raising opportunities.
• Provide feedback to the fundraising manager. 

What are we looking for?

Our ideal candidate would demonstrate: 

• An understanding of, and commitment to, the work of the Glasgow South West Foodbank.
• Understanding of, and passion for, fundraising.
• An ability to use that understanding to lead the fundraising sub committee and engage with the fundraising manager in a supportive and confident manner.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

What difference will you make?

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team which provides a vital service in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience for people in financial crisis and facing hunger.