Community volunteer roles

Help turn great items into great sales

Help bring donated items to life online.

As an Online Shop Listing Volunteer, you'll volunteer onsite creating listings that help customers find and buy donated items with confidence.

By writing clear titles and descriptions, and gathering all the details needed to publish listings, you'll play a direct part in generating the income that supports Oxfam's work fighting poverty and injustice worldwide.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys writing, using a computer, and has a strong attention to detail.

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

Be a Second-hand Superhero

Help showcase amazing items online and connect them with new owners.

Increase Your Skills

Gain experience in online retail, content writing and digital systems.

Find Your Community

Meet people who care about making a difference.

Flexibility

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

A Role That Works for You

This role may suit someone who feels more comfortable working quietly behind the scenes. It offers a calm, focused task that can be done independently, with a clear routine and repeated steps.

Someone who enjoys consistency, routine and working at their own pace could really thrive in this role.

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 learn more about the role and discuss what you'd like to do.

🌟 Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits 💖 Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

🧭 BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

🌍 Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

💎 OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

🧠 IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Treasurer (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Responsibilities:

• Oversee all financial matters including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.

• Ensure compliance with statutory financial regulations and charity law.

• Work closely with auditors and the Finance Committee.

• Present financial reports at each board meeting.

• Support fundraising and resource management strategy.

Requirements:

• Background in finance, accounting, or business administration.

• Knowledge of charity finance and UK financial reporting standards.

• Integrity and attention to detail.

Benefits:

• Direct influence over financial sustainability and impact measurement.

• Recognition in philanthropic financial management networks.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

Help shape the future of Blue Cross through commercial insight, strategic leadership and sustainable growth

Blue Cross has been helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. Today, we support thousands of pets and their owners through veterinary care, rehoming, behaviour support, pet food banks, education, campaigning and pet bereavement services. Our vision is simple: every pet will enjoy a healthy life in a happy home.

The Board's future needs have been considered in light of Blue Cross' strategic priorities and organisational ambitions. We are therefore seeking a Trustee with significant commercial expertise who can bring strategic insight, business acumen and constructive challenge to Board discussions. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future direction of Blue Cross, supporting the charity's long-term sustainability and our mission to improve the lives of pets and their people.

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with experience in:

• Commercial strategy
• Business development
• Strategic partnerships
• Brand and marketing
• Digital transformation
• Customer-focused organisations
• Innovation and organisational growth

We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience within a commercial environment
• Strong strategic and commercial judgement
• Experience influencing decision making at executive or Board level
• Excellent stakeholder management skills
• The ability to balance commercial considerations with charitable purpose

Time commitment

Approximately 1-2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, committee participation and occasional events.

Diversity and inclusion

Blue Cross is committed to creating a Board that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from people currently underrepresented on charity boards.

Key dates

Closing date: Tuesday 25 August 2026
First interviews: Week commencing 14 September 2026
Second interviews: Week commencing 21 September 2026

To learn more about the role, please review the candidate information pack.

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. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Our shops rely on a steady flow of stock to help raise vital funds for hospice care, and we're looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to help keep things moving.

As a Volunteer Van Mate, you'll travel with our drivers, delivering and collecting boxes, bags and other stock between our Distribution Centre and shops across Brighton, Hove and the surrounding area. It's a great opportunity to get out and about, be part of a supportive team, and make a real difference to the success of our charity shops.

When:

Wednesday: Full-day availability required, as vans will be visiting our shops further afield

Friday: Morning shifts available

Monday-Friday: Morning shifts available to help load and unload vans

Please note: Collection and delivery schedules can vary, and vans may not always return at the expected time. We therefore ask volunteers to be flexible, particularly at the end of their shift.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

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. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

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. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply.

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.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

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. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Are you interested in fashion, weddings or proms? Then this could be a fantastic volunteer role for you. The role includes helping brides pick out a dress for their big special day, chatting to the relatives and making the experience one to remember! The Chestnut Tree House Shop in Bognor town Centre offer a wide range of beautiful affordable outfits, including wedding dresses, suits and prom dresses.

Available Shifts: Monday-Sunday am & pm

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Breakfast Club Volunteer

Locations: Amadeus House, 18 Corfton Road, Ealing, London, W5 2HT

Timings: Each Tuesday morning approximately 10.00 – 12.00

About Waythrough

Waythrough provides specialist support across mental health, alcohol, drugs and related areas. We delivery high-quality, evidence-based services designed around the real needs of the people we serve.

Every year, we support around 125,000 people through over 250 services - and it's all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.

Make a real difference in your community 

Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change. 

The Crisis Recovery House supports people experiencing a mental health crisis, as an alternative to hospital admission, where appropriate. It also helps individuals discharged from hospital who need a brief period of intensive support.

This volunteer role supports the smooth running of the Tuesday Breakfast Club, creating a warm, welcoming and safe space for people accessing the service. As a Breakfast Club Volunteer, you help set up the space, greet attendees, support light activities and conversation, and contribute to a positive community atmosphere. You play an important part in helping service users build routine, confidence and connection as part of their recovery journey.

Tasks may include:

• Prepare the breakfast area in line with Food Hygiene regulations (training can be provided) and service guidance.
• Set up equipment, supplies and the environment to ensure the session starts smoothly and clearing up at the end of the session
• Welcome all guests warmly, helping to create a relaxed and inclusive space.
• Keep an accurate register of attendees, ensuring food allergies and dietary needs are recorded appropriately.
• Prepare and serve hot drinks and toast, ensuring hygiene and safety throughout.
• Introduce new customers to the Breakfast Club and explain what they can expect from the session.
• Support introductions among service users to help build confidence and social connection.
• Encourage the use of weekly planners or similar tools to support routine-building and recovery goals.
• Help facilitate informal group conversations and light activities, where appropriate.
• Liaise with the staff member on duty regarding any safeguarding or wellbeing concerns.
• Assist with clearing and cleaning the space at the end of the session.
• Follow all relevant Waythrough policies, including safeguarding, confidentiality, information governance and health & safety.
• Support the development and potential expansion of the Breakfast Club, including new ideas for activities, themed mornings or discussions.

Skills/qualities we would like you to bring to the role:

• Warm, friendly and approachable manner when engaging with service users
• Good communication skills and the ability to make people feel welcome
• Ability to engage respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds
• Comfortable chatting informally and supporting light group conversations
• Awareness of personal boundaries and when to seek staff support
• Organised and reliable, with good time‑keeping
• Caring, understanding and non-judgmental approach towards people with lived experience
• Able to work as part of a team and take direction when needed
• An understanding of Waythrough – information is available on our website
• A genuine interest in being part of the mission and vision of Waythrough
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, professional boundaries, adhere to Waythrough policies and media guidelines, engage in supervision, and complete relevant training

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy:

• Discounts from various schemes

• Training and personal development

• A chance to make a real difference in people’s lives

• Free induction and role-specific training

• Support from experienced staff and regular supervision

• Opportunities to meet new people and develop your confidence

• Reimbursement for travel and agreed expenses

• Valuable experience that can support your personal or career development

Inclusion and accessibility 

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. 

We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme  - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.

Heartwood House is a unique organisation, working to support and empower young people to engage with education and achieve their potential, free from mainstream system constraints. We are a small, values-driven community, and our trustees play a vital role in guiding our mission and ensuring the long-term sustainability of what we do.

At Heartwood House, we deliver full-time education for students experiencing emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA). Our, methodology places wellbeing at the core of students' education, focusing on mental health, personal growth, and positive social interactions alongside academic instruction.

Students have an inherent right to respectful and caring treatment, independent of behaviour or academic performance. As a trustee, you will help uphold and champion our policy of unconditional positive regard, the principle that everyone (staff or student) should always be treated with respect and dignity, no matter the situation.

Education takes place in small groups, with lessons tailored to each student's individual needs and interests. As a trustee, you will gain insight into a genuinely distinctive educational model, and your governance will directly support the staff who build meaningful relationships with every young person in our care.

All staff are invested in and actively participate in student wellbeing, integrating mental health support and personal growth throughout the day, not just in designated sessions. Trustees share responsibility for ensuring this holistic approach is protected and resourced appropriately.

We offer academic instruction from Entry Level to GCSE in subjects aligned with students' interests and future plans. Almost all students study English, Maths, Science, and Art at a minimum, with most pursuing additional subjects at the centre or online. As a trustee, you will help ensure the organisation remains financially and strategically positioned to continue delivering this flexible, student-centred curriculum.

Headlight is a friendly, non-clinical peer to peer support group and one to one mentoring for young people experiencing emotional and mental health issues. We rely on volunteers to help run our fortnightly evening sessions in Ottery St Mary alongside trained staff.

Could you help young people to feel welcome and part of a support network? Could you offer a listening ear to a young person who needs to talk? Could you relate to young people aged 18-25 and help engage and support them in the groups activities? Are you hands on and willing to do the practical stuff such as set up, food preparation and tidying up? 

If you said yes to those questions then please get in touch with Molly. 

Recruitment Manager – Volunteer Role

About Make A Smile

Make A Smile is a UK charity dedicated to bringing joy, play, and magical experiences to children facing illness, disability, or disadvantage. Volunteers dress as beloved characters and deliver uplifting activities, from hospital visits and care‑centre sessions to arts, crafts, stories, and games - ensuring every child gets the chance to enjoy their childhood. Our Trustees and Central Officers ensure the charity runs smoothly across the UK, helping us “bring smiles to the faces of so many children.”

About The Role

The Recruitment Manager leads and oversees volunteer recruitment across all Make A Smile chapters. You will support Chapter Recruitment Officers, run central recruitment activities, and ensure volunteers can progress smoothly from first hearing about the charity to becoming fully qualified and ready to attend events.

Key Responsibilities

You will play a strategic and hands‑on role in growing the charity’s volunteer base. Responsibilities include:

● Overseeing the full volunteer journey - from first contact to becoming “Qualified” and event‑ready.

● Providing guidance, training, and ongoing support to Chapter Recruitment Officers.

● Ensuring Recruitment Officers run effective Introduction Training sessions, recruitment fairs, and outreach activities.

● Identifying barriers that prevent volunteers from getting involved and working to reduce them.

● Ensuring each chapter completes its Widening Access plan and implements inclusive recruitment practices.

● Working closely with the Safeguarding Officer to support DBS checks and ensure Recruitment Officers can run DBS clinics correctly.

● Maintaining and improving the Introduction Training slides and ensuring content remains high‑quality and up to date.

● Running a monthly online central Introduction Training session and advertising it across chapters and social media.

● Proactively seeking new recruitment opportunities, including volunteering platforms, fairs, and partnerships.

● Supporting and overseeing the Widening Participation (WP) Officer, who recruits 16–18‑year‑old volunteers.

● Collaborating with the PR Officer and Conference Officer to raise awareness and attend recruitment events.

● Reporting recruitment challenges, barriers, and chapter needs at monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

This role suits someone energetic, organised, and passionate about helping people get involved. You’ll thrive if you bring:

● Strong communication and people‑engagement skills.

● Confidence in motivating and supporting volunteers.

● A proactive, solution‑focused mindset.

● Creativity in finding new recruitment opportunities.

● The ability to manage multiple chapters and keep track of progress.

● Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Act in the best interests of Make a Smile… Enjoy it!”).

Experience in recruitment is helpful but not essential - enthusiasm and commitment matter most.

Time Commitment

Recruitment Managers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week, including supporting chapters, running central training, and attending monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.

Training and Support

You will receive:

● Full Trustee Training (online).

● A comprehensive handover and access to all systems (OneDrive, Simvoly, WhatsApp communities).

● Guidance from the Chair, Safeguarding Officer, and fellow Trustees.

● Access to recruitment guides, training materials, and templates.

● Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity‑funded training.

What You’ll Gain

● Experience leading recruitment across a national charity.

● Skills in volunteer engagement, training delivery, and inclusive recruitment.

● Leadership experience supporting multiple chapter teams.

● The chance to shape the volunteer experience and strengthen the charity’s impact.

● The joy of helping new volunteers join a community that brings magic to children.

Safeguarding and Eligibility

Recruitment Managers must act in line with charity standards, including professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability. You must be able to attend monthly meetings and engage actively in communication channels. A DBS check may be required depending on involvement with events.

How to Apply

To express your interest, please send a CV along with a short message outlining your experience, interest in recruitment, and why you’d like to support Make A Smile.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping children smile.