Community development volunteer roles

About us: 

H4All is working to advance the health and wellbeing of residents in the London Borough of Hillingdon.

This is done through our Community Champions programme, which is an initiative made up of organisations and local volunteers who promote positive wellbeing messaging and share healthcare information.

Who are we looking for? 

We are looking for committed volunteers who want to combine their passion for coaching and public health.  As a Wellbeing Coach Volunteer, you’ll be supporting a community-led programme by working with clients (Punjabi women) with Type 2 diabetes to help them set goals. 

This is a meaningful opportunity to reduce health and inequalities in Hillingdon, while gaining hands-on experience and benefiting from free training and support.    

Key Responsibilities 

• Attend two sessions a month with a client (30 minutes each) over a period of 6 months.

• Setting goals, developing an action plan and supporting clients to achieve goals

• Be able to listen non-judgmentally and communicate effectively

• Signposting client to relevant organisations, activities and support

• Give regular updates to the Health and Wellbeing Programme Officer

Benefits for you: 

• Free, specialised training and mentoring provided, enhancing personal and professional skills. 

• Hands-on experience in wellbeing coaching. 

• Networking opportunities with healthcare professionals, community organisations and other volunteers. 

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

Training and support given: 

Mandatory training:  

•  Online Mental Health courses

• Diabetes online training 

• Wellbeing Coach training (ongoing) 

Throughout your time volunteering with us, there will be additional online and in-person training that will be offered (depending on interest and projects we are running).

Expenses: 

We can provide expenses for travel and parking at events or training.

Skills and attributes required: 

• Ability to speak Punjabi

• Friendly, supportive and non-judgmental attitude.

• Effective communicator and active listener.

• Respectful of confidentiality and procedures.

• Reliable and committed.

• Empathetic and understanding of others’ cultures, beliefs and backgrounds.

Desirable:

• Previous qualifications or experience in Coaching would be highly beneficial but is not needed.

Reporting to: Health and Wellbeing Programme Officer

Commitment required: 

• Full induction and Mandatory online courses, such as Health Coaching and Safeguarding online course.

• Attend relevant training when offered. 

• We ask for a commitment of 6 months due to free training and individual support/development offered to our volunteers. In addition, you will be supporting clients on a one-on-one basis.

• You’ll be working with a client over a period of 6 months, and meet them at Townfield Doctors Surgery for two 30-minute sessions (twice a month) to track their progress.

Documents Required: 

• In your application form, you will be asked for 2 references who have known you for at least a year. They can be from a professional, a friend, a support worker etc.

• A basic DBS check is required for public-facing roles.

To apply for this role: 

A H4ALL application form must be completed. You can email us or visit our website to get an application form.

Would you like to help end food insecurity and tackle climate change in Greater Manchester, whilst gaining valuable experience and skills? Or perhaps you'd just like to keep busy and active and make new friends, whilst supporting a great cause.

WHAT WE OFFER YOU

Induction, training and support.
Practical experience and transferable skills in food redistribution and warehousing.
A reference (after 2 months with us).
An understanding of warehousing and logistics.
Expenses:
Reimbursement of travel costs of up to £5 for public transport, and up to £6 for car drivers.
Up to £3 towards lunch, if you have special dietary requirements. (We provide lunch, so will contribute towards the cost of a meal, should you bring your own, if what we are offering isn't considered suitable; e.g. a diet that's restricted for health, ethics or religion).

ABOUT US
As a sustainability charity, we take donated surplus (over-stocked) food and redistribute it to people in need.
The initiatives we support include food banks, schools, community groups and charities.
Our vital work supports people experiencing extreme hardship and prevents good food going to landfill, where it would contribute to climate warming through greenhouse gas emissions. 
We need help in our warehouse to receive and record supplies, load and unload vans, and prepare orders for delivery. In return, we offer training and support to help you obtain skills and experience if you are seeking work. If you're not looking for a job, volunteering with us is rewarding in many other ways; offering an opportunity to make friends, keep physically active and support your community.

This role is vital to FareShare's work, ensuring that the food in our warehouse is sorted, labelled and organised into orders.
It is perfect for someone who is:

a) Looking for a practical activity to keep busy and physically fit.
b) Looking for experience and skills to gain employment in the food industry, warehousing or customer service.
c) Wanting to help their community and help tackle global warming.
d) Wanting to make new friends.

Our volunteer roles are available Monday to Friday, for a whole or half day, with shifts between 8:30-am-12:30pm and 12:30-4:30pm. 
Volunteers are typically involved on one day a week.

WHAT WILL I BE DOING?
Receiving, sorting, cataloguing and storing chilled and ambient food and preparing orders for delivery. 
Ensuring food quality and safety by checking ‘use by’ and ‘best before’ dates.
Unpacking deliveries, recording and categorising food.
Assembling food orders.
Assisting our Community Food Members with their order collections.
Maintaining health and safety and hygiene standards. 
Helping with cleaning and other routine tasks.

PERSON SPECIFICATION: You must...
Be reasonably physically fit to carry out tasks, including lifting and loading.
Speak English well in order to communicate clearly with our Community Food Members, and to understand and follow instructions and health and safety rules. 
Have basic literacy and numeracy skills to record details of donated food.
Be able to work to Health and Safety standards.
Be happy to complete tasks independently according to instruction.
Be positive, friendly and enthusiastic about tackling food waste and food insecurity.
Be reliable and able to commit to an agreed session/day.

LOCATION
We are located in Maynard House, New Smithfield Market, Openshaw, M11 2WJ, which is easily reachable on public transport. We have free-onsite parking and secure storage for bicycles.

​IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be a UK resident and living within easy commuting distance of our base in order to volunteer with us. This is because our volunteers must be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for 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. :)

Are you a big football fan who enjoys playing football as well as watching it?

We are looking for volunteer football enthusiasts to both play football and enjoy talking all things football with someone with learning disabilities and or autism.  As a volunteer you will need to be able to volunteer for a couple of hours each week.

What does the role involve?

Our football volunteers will enjoy spending time having a kick about, perhaps watching a game on TV and perhaps having a post-match discussion. Trips to watch the odd live game would also be an enjoyable experience for the people we support.

Skills required: -

• To be kind, empathetic and friendly

• To have a good sense of humour and love to chat

• Good communication skills

• Positive & supporting attitude

• To be punctual and reliable

• Commitment to inclusion

• To be able to deal with information in line with our data protection and confidentiality procedures

• Becoming one of our football volunteers will provide opportunities for those we support to increase their confidence, boost their mood and keep fit. 

• Training and ongoing support from SeeAbility staff.

• The chance to develop new skills in accessible communication and inclusive practice.

• Being part of a warm, welcoming community that values every individual.

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses.

• This is a fantastic opportunity to give something positive back to society and have a direct impact on people’s lives. Being a football volunteer is a great way to get out and about, exercise, and help others

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride 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. 

Pursuing the role

Cadet Groups and Badger Setts meet on various nights across Kent, the average meeting time is between 1:30 - 2:00 hours per week. Training needs to be completed to undertake the role, this is mainly eLearning. Youth helpers can complete further training and become Youth Leaders once they have gained the knowledge and experience. There is also the opportunity to help at activity days, outings or residential weekends.

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - 18th October 2026,  Times and locations to be advised
• Training for role - Training includes eLearning All training will be provided.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/07/2027.

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Senior Leadership Volunteer Wanted — Help Shape and Lead a Life‑Changing Start‑Up Charity

Unlock YOUR Potential | London

1. Are you a natural leader with a passion for building organisations, empowering people and driving meaningful social impact?
2. Do you want to use your experience, insight and leadership skills to help a start‑up charity grow, thrive and transform lives across London?

If you’re someone who believes in the power of strong leadership to change communities and create opportunities, then we’d love to have you on our journey.

WE Are Unlock YOUR Potential

Unlock YOUR Potential is a bold, people‑centred start‑up charity dedicated to helping adults across London unlock their confidence, rebuild their lives and step into new opportunities.

We will support people through:

• Careers Coaching

• Employability Skills

• Life Coaching

• Corporate Mentoring

• Personal Development

• Wellbeing Support …and so much more.

Our mission is simple: to help people believe in themselves again and move forward with purpose.

WE NEED YOU!!!

As a new and growing charity, we are building everything from the ground up — and we need a skilled, motivated and forward‑thinking Senior Leadership Volunteer who can work closely with our Founder to shape, strengthen and lead the organisation through its early stages.

This is a pivotal role for someone who can hit the ground running, bring structure and strategic thinking, and help us launch our programmes, systems and services as soon as possible.

Your leadership will help turn our vision into reality.

YOUR Mission

As our Senior Leadership Volunteer, you will:

1. Work directly with the Founder to develop and implement our strategic direction.
2. Support the set‑up and running of the charity’s core operations.
3. Help build internal systems, processes and governance structures.
4. Lead on key projects that prepare the charity for launch and growth.
5. Provide guidance, insight and leadership across multiple areas of the organisation.
6. Help shape a positive, empowering and purpose‑driven culture.
7. Bring clarity, momentum and confidence to our early‑stage development.

Your work will directly influence the success of our mission — and your leadership will help ensure we are ready to deliver life‑changing support to adults across London.

What You’ll Gain

• A rare opportunity to help build a charity from the ground up.

• Senior‑level leadership experience in the charity and social impact sector.

• A meaningful role that directly shapes the lives of the people we serve.

• The satisfaction of knowing your leadership is helping Londoners unlock their potential.

Who We’re Looking For

Someone who is:

• Experienced in leadership, management or organisational development.

• Confident supporting founders, CEOs or senior leaders.

• Strategic, proactive and able to take initiative.

• Passionate about social impact and empowering disadvantaged adults.

• Organised, collaborative and ready to lead with purpose.

• Excited to help build something meaningful from the ground up.

If you’re ready to use your leadership skills to empower a charity with a powerful mission, we’d love to hear from you.

Join us — and help build the leadership foundations that will unlock thousands of futures.

Help Us Unlock Potential!!!

About Quilombo UK

Quilombo UK is a social justice organisation dedicated to inspiring individuals to "See, Think, Behave and Speak Differently" about equality, diversity, and inclusion. We create engaging experiences—ranging from our Beyond Bias training to our "Voices for All" podcasts—that raise awareness and empower unheard voices within our diverse communities.

The Research department serves as the intellectual foundation of our mission. As Operations Manager of Department, you will lead the critical task of gathering evidence, data, and lived-experience narratives that inform our training programmes and public discourse. While we host the Professional Development Programme (PDP) to support career changers, the Research function is a core strategic pillar that ensures our advocacy is grounded in fact and that the systemic barriers faced by our communities are accurately identified and challenged.

Operations Manager of Department (Research)

The Opportunity

This position offers a significant career step-up, providing experience in managing complex research projects and data analysis within a social justice framework. In this Operations Manager of Department capacity, you will gain the leadership credentials and strategic oversight necessary to advance your professional trajectory while ensuring our organisation’s voice remains authoritative, evidence-based, and impactful.

Role Purpose

The Operations Manager of Research sits between Directors and Managers, turning high-level investigative goals into clear, deliverable research plans. You own the direction, methodology, and delivery control of the Research department to ensure that all reports, white papers, and data sets are produced with academic rigour, accuracy, and pace.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Research Planning: Turning Director objectives into practical research schedules, including literature reviews, data collection phases, and report drafting.

• Manager Leadership: Coaching Research Managers to coordinate field work and data analysis effectively, ensuring all project components are visible in MeisterTask.

• Assurance & Quality Control: Reducing rework by refining research methodologies and ensuring all outputs are fact-checked and peer-reviewed before reaching the final sign-off stage.

• Director Reporting: Providing weekly reports on the research pipeline (active studies, pending analysis, and upcoming publications), WIP status, and risks to project timelines.

• Culture & Standards: Ensuring all research activities align with ethical guidelines, data protection standards, and Quilombo UK’s professional values.

Additional Professional Benefits

• Career Development: A full CV and profile review conducted by our Talent Acquisition and Learning & Development teams.

• Operational Support: Access to the services of the Legal, HR, PR, and Graphic Design teams for up to 10 hours per month for professional or departmental support (e.g., legal review of ethics or graphic design for data visualisation).

• Proactive Recruitment: Use of the Talent Acquisition team to actively search out new roles and opportunities via industry portals and LinkedIn.

Requirements

• Proven experience in research management, academic research, or social science investigation.

• A portfolio of published reports, articles, or research papers / CV.

• Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and project management software (such as MeisterTask).

• Flexibility and openness to work on a variety of subjects related to EDI and social justice.

• Focused, organised, and able to prioritise complex analytical tasks under tight deadlines.

• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments.

• Strong team player with the ability to lead through others.

• Excellent written communication skills with a keen eye for detail and data accuracy.

• Degree in Social Sciences, Research Methods, Humanities, or a related field is a plus.

• This is a 100% remote-only position.

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.

Selection Process

• Informal interview.

• Requirement of two professional references.

Help Us Become the “Best Wee Hospice in the UK”

Ardgowan Hospice is on a journey of radical transformation. We are an 

extraordinary organisation providing a "cloak" of love, care, and compassion to over 1,000 patients and families in Inverclyde each year.

As we enter a vital new 5-year cycle, we are looking for dynamic, innovative, and proactive Trustees to help shape our future

The Opportunity

Our Trustees are the heart of our governance, ensuring we meet the highest standards of care while navigating a challenging financial landscape. This is your chance to use your professional expertise to make a tangible difference in your community.

We are particularly interested in candidates with backgrounds in:

• Clinical Care/Health & Social Care: To support our goal of becoming a centre of excellence in palliative and end-of-life care.

• Accountancy/Finance: To help us manage our £12 million capital building project and achieve a balanced budget.

• Marketing/Communications: To champion our work and grow our supporter base across Inverclyde and beyond.

• Law: To ensure we remain compliant with legislative requirements and best practices.

Want to learn more? 

 Contact our CEO, Graham Gardiner, to arrange an informal chat or a visit.

Production Assistant

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance. We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace.To learn more about our impactful work at Quilombo UK, we encourage you to explore our website and YouTube channel. 

 Join us in leading positive change!

Role Overview

As a Production Assistant, you will support the Video Production Manager and team in all stages of video production, focusing primarily on the pre and production phase. Your role will be crucial in ensuring that our video projects are well-planned and executed smoothly. You will be involved in tasks ranging from script writing to stage setting, ensuring that all necessary preparations are in place for successful video production.
 

Main Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Video Production Manager to develop and refine scripts for various video projects, conducting research to gather relevant information and insights to inform script content and invite guests when necessary.

• Assist in planning and setting up stages for video shoots, including arranging props, lighting, and other necessary equipment, and coordinate with the production team to ensure all stage elements are in place.

• Work with the Video Production Manager to create detailed production schedules and timelines, and coordinate with cast, crew, and other stakeholders to ensure everyone is informed of shoot dates and times.

• Assist in identifying and securing suitable locations for video shoots, conducting site visits to assess the suitability of locations and addressing any logistical considerations.

• Organize and manage all production materials and resources, including scripts, shot lists, and production notes, ensuring all necessary permits and permissions are obtained for filming locations.

• Act as a point of contact between the pre/production team and other departments, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration, and provide regular updates to the Video Production Manager on the progress of pr/production tasks.

Essential

• Provide production assistance as needed (e.g. props, crafty, runner duties)

• Good interpersonal skills with ability to get on with people at all levels.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

• Creativity and attention to detail in script writing and stage setting.

• Experience in camera set-ups for live events /ob-doc /scripted content

• Appropriate DIT practices for media management 

• Working knowledge of audio production and basic audio set-ups for live events and recorded audio. 

• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments

• Proficiency with Google Workspace/Microsoft Office

• Working knowledge of file codecs and wrappers

• Digital Asset Management (Utilising enterprise versions of Google Drive etc)

• Coordinating the activities of writers, directors, managers, actors, and other personnel throughout the production process

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortune 

• 1 + years of production in broadcast and film

• Understanding of broadcast acquisition standards for file deliveries

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

Chair

Harrogate Homeless Project

Board meetings take place at Springboard day centre, Oxford Street, Harrogate, HG1 1PP.

Harrogate Homeless Project is the leading charity in the Harrogate district supporting individuals who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or recovering from homelessness. Our mission is to use our expertise to address the root causes of a person’s homelessness and support them to long-term independent living. We aim to influence local, regional and national policy to help deliver better outcomes for our clients.

We have bold ambitions to make a step change in the support given to our clients.  We benefit from strong and positive public awareness of our work.  That work is supported by a staff team of around 18 people, nearly 50 volunteers and strong links with partners including North Yorkshire Council, other charities and local businesses.

The next period promises to be exciting for Harrogate Homeless Project as we develop our direct services to clients, extend the support offered in our premises by partners, put our influencing of public policy on a firmer footing and to significantly invest in, and expand, our fundraising.

The role.

Our current Chair is leaving in a planned way to take up a non-executive role in another organisation.  We are seeking an exceptional successor to lead our Board and work with our executive team to progress our ambitious plans.

We are looking for someone with proven leadership qualities; you will also be well-connected with any of our key partner groups in North Yorkshire – charities, businesses and the public sector.  The highest levels of personal credibility are essential for this role and sound judgment in dealings with staff, clients and partners is essential. Our longer-term impact and sustainability rely on rigorous governance and statutory compliance.  You will ensure that our oversight, scrutiny and legal compliance arrangements are as strong as possible.

This is a great time to join us, as we work collaboratively with a diverse range of partners to bring hope and empowerment to our clients.  If you want to be part of this, we look forward to hearing from you.

The appointment is on a voluntary basis with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Information

Download the candidate brief from the vacancies section of our website to find out more about the role.

How to apply

To make an application, please visit the recruitment page of our website, read the candidate pack and submit:

• Your CV
• A covering letter (no more than two sides) that sets out how you match the criteria and describes the specific experience you can bring to the appointment to support Harrogate Homeless Project’s aims.

Recruitment timeline

Closing date: Friday 31 July 2026

Shortlisting: August 2026

Interviews: 14 September 2026 (provisional)

MANAGING DIRECTOR WANTED

BUILD THE MOVEMENT. LEAD THE SQUAD. CHANGE THE GAME.

URBAN YOUTH isn’t just a charity — it’s a startup youth movement built from raw energy, street culture, and the belief that young people deserve experiences that hit different. We’re small, scrappy, and unapologetically ambitious.

And now we’re searching for a Managing Director who’s ready to help us turn this spark into a wildfire.

This Is Not Your Typical MD Role

• No big budgets.
• No endless staff teams.
• No corporate safety nets.

Just vision, hustle, and the drive to build something powerful from almost nothing.

Urban Youth is a pop‑up youth work charity (like a streetwear drop), creative jams, community takeovers, and high‑impact experiences that feel more like culture than “services.” We’re building a youth movement that’s loud, urban, and real.

We need someone who can help us take this raw potential and scale it into something unforgettable.

What You’ll Lead

You’ll be the strategic force behind Urban Youth — shaping our direction, building our foundations, and helping us grow from a startup idea into a city‑wide movement.

You’ll help us:

• Build partnerships from scratch

• Create opportunities with minimal resources

• Turn creative chaos into sustainable impact

• Grow our squad, our reach, and our influence

• Make sure our pop‑ups hit hard and keep evolving

This is leadership in its purest form — no red tape, no grey areas, just vision, grit, and action.

Who You Are

1. You’re entrepreneurial.
2. You’re resourceful.
3. You’re the kind of person who sees a blank space and imagines a whole community event happening there.
4. You thrive in startup energy — fast decisions, big ideas, and making things happen with whatever you’ve got.
5. You don’t wait for permission.
6. You don’t need perfect conditions.
7. You build anyway.

If you’ve ever said, “Give me a mission and I’ll make it real,” you’re exactly who we want.

Why Urban Youth?

• Because we’re creating something new. Something bold. Something that doesn’t look like traditional youth work.
• We’re building a movement that feels like culture — not charity. A squad. A vibe. A community.

As Managing Director, you won’t just run an organisation. You’ll help create one.

You’ll shape the identity, the energy, and the future of Urban Youth from the ground up.

Ready to build something huge?

1. If you want to lead with purpose…
2. If you want to create impact without waiting for permission…
3. If you want to help build a youth movement that’s raw, urban, and unforgettable…

Urban Youth needs you.

Step up. Join the squad. Let’s build something massive.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

York Minster Fund Limited (YMFL), the corporate trustee of York Minster Fund, is currently looking for new volunteer directors to join our board. Founded in 1967 by The Earl of Scarbrough, today the Fund is York Minster’s lead fundraiser, raising £1-2M each year to for restoration and conservation of the fabric of the cathedral, alongside supporting education and music. It is an exciting time for the Fund, 2027 will see the Minster celebrating 1400 years since its founding and our 60th birthday.

Directors help set the strategy for the Fund and oversee governance, finances and operations. The main board meet 6 times a year, with sub committees such as Finance and Governance meeting quarterly. Alongside acting as a critical friend to the Fund’s manager, you will represent us at a range of events and champion the charity and its work within your networks.

General experience as a trustee or at board level is an advantage, although full induction and development can be offered to support the right candidates. We especially seek applicants with experience in digital marketing and giving, heritage focused grant making trusts, alongside general fundraising knowledge.

Appointments are made for a 4 year term, with the option to serve another 4 years.

For an informal discussion please contact the director (Fund CEO).

Application is by way of a CV (no more than 3 pages) and covering letter (no more than 2 pages) explaining the skills and experience you can bring to the Fund’s board.

Applications should be sent by the 17th July 2027.

Art Explora is a non-profit arts organisation that aims to share arts and culture with everyone - locally, nationally and internationally - and inspire new encounters between arts and audiences.

Arts at Home supports older people to access arts and culture by encouraging conversation and connection through art. We are looking for volunteers to participate in our "Arts at Home" sessions in residential care homes. In these sessions, you will introduce works of art of your choice and facilitate conversations around the artworks with residents. No prior professional experience is needed; we will provide you with the necessary training.

You will need to be able to travel to Birmingham locations independently (pre agreed local travel expenses paid). 

Why you'll love it:

• You will meet new people & alleviate feelings of loneliness through creativity and connection.
• You will be offered spaces on trips to galleries and theatres with our care setting residents as part of our ‘Art Explorers at...’ project. 
• You will learn about art, heritage, and history, through your research and other volunteers.
• You will develop communication and public speaking skills
• You will gain experience working with vulnerable adults and build an understanding of how art can support a sense of community and wellbeing. 

If you are a confident communicator and passionate about arts, we would love to hear from you!