Community support volunteer roles

Who is Quaker Social Action?

QSA works with people on low incomes to seek solutions to the issues affecting their lives.

The services that QSA deliver are varied but all are about building respectful and dignified relationships with people who need support in some way. We address issues around food insecurity especially for asylum seekers, the dearth of support on the streets for people who are homeless, and the financial struggles many people experience when arranging a funeral. As well as these direct services we convene an advocacy group of hundreds of grassroots charities tackling child poverty in London. 

Some of our services operate in person, in London, some are national and delivered online or through a telephone helpline. Across all services, we seek to share our learning with others, through advocacy, campaigning or training; or by having a voice with policymakers and in the media on issues where we have credibility.

QSA was founded in 1867 by Quakers troubled by the social injustices of the time and keen to tackle them. This sense of taking practical action to address societal challenges has stayed with us over our 150-year history, and our organisational values are aligned with Quaker values of equality, truth and peace.

QSA is the largest independent Quaker charity and Quakers across the UK support our work –approximately 20% of our £1million+ income comes from Quaker sources. We are proud of our Quaker heritage and our place within the Quaker community, while also clear that our services, jobs and trustee roles are open to all.

“The advice and support was beyond beneficial. As a family we were just above the threshold for getting any financial support and at a very difficult time already, money worries was the last thing we needed.”

- Down to Earth funeral costs helpline caller.

What are we looking for?

The Charity Commission defines trustees as "the people who lead the charity and decide how it is run".

Therefore, we need new trustees who are:

1. Passionate about the aims of QSA and excited to contribute to our work

2. Empathic and understanding of the issues affecting people living in poverty, and keen to learn more

3. Wanting to make a positive contribution to our commitment to increasing inclusion, including giving voice to those with relevant lived experience

4. Willing to take on this responsibility and committed to learning more about charity governance

5. Able to commit the time needed to be a trustee and to take this responsibility seriously, for an initial term of three years.

While previous trustee experience is not necessary, we need trustees who have the confidence to actively contribute to the work of our charity from their appointment date, and who have capacity to engage with the governance task. The trustee task is more than attending meetings: we estimate it represents 1-2 days per month in total, accounting for board preparation, engaging with emails, and taking up opportunities to see the work and meet QSA staff.

Some of our trustees are Quakers but most are not, and we warmly welcome applications from people of all faiths or none. We are looking for trustees who will be in sympathy with Quaker values of peace, equality, integrity and simplicity.

​

How do I contribute as a trustee?

Trustees meet four times a year. Usually, two of these meetings are in person in London, on an afternoon; the other two are online and in the evening.

Each trustee is expected to join one committee: finance & fundraising, governance & nominations or people & wellbeing. These meet quarterly, online, and are arranged to meet the needs of their members.

There are also formal and informal opportunities to meet with fellow trustees and with the QSA staff team, including online meetings, away days and special events. We encourage trustees to take advantage of as many of these opportunities as possible.

As well as this, trustees contribute by playing an active part in the life of the charity and by being responsive, supportive and committed to the fulfilment of QSA’s charitable purposes.

Trustees as a whole are responsible for:

· Setting the strategic direction of QSA

· The financial oversight of QSA

· Ensuring we comply with relevant legislation

· Supporting the paid staff of the charity to deliver our mission.

Being a trustee for a charity as diverse and energetic as QSA offers an exciting opportunity for people who are passionate about tackling poverty.

“I feel the service from these marvellous book fans and their very committed, caring staff are an essential…I use them twice a week every week. Please may they continue.”

- Visitor to Turn a Corner library van for people experiencing homelessness.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at QSA

QSA has been working hard on equity, diversity and inclusion and see it as a golden thread which runs through our organisation. We are still learning and we invite new trustees to join us on that learning journey.

Inclusion is important to us – the arrival of new trustees brings fresh perspectives and we are excited that our culture will expand and be enhanced by new people joining the board.

We are particularly keen on recruiting trustees who are closer to our cause. By this we mean people who have current or previous experience of living on a low income. We're aware that poverty disproportionately affects people with disabilities and also people who are black and others from global majority communities. Therefore, we'd particularly like to encourage you to apply if you're from one of these groups.

We are committed to addressing any barriers to inclusion, so do speak to us if there are changes we might need to make to enable you to participate.

Discussion and challenge are at the heart of good governance, so we need people who are different from each other to make that happen. We know this requires full engagement from all our trustees and commitment from us to make it work.

What support will I get?

We know that new trustees will need to get to grips with the role, and we offer support:

• New trustees receive an induction where they meet key staff and other trustees, and learn how our trustees work together.

• We have a buddying system in place for new trustees, providing support and reassurance from a more experienced trustee, especially for the first few months.

• New trustees receive all the information needed about QSA: governing documents, organisational chart, plans and recent trustee papers.

• We support trustees' learning and development and encourage our trustees to take opportunities to broaden their knowledge and skills.

• We do not want cost to be a barrier for trustees. Expenses are covered to ensure trustees can fulfil their obligations, such as travel, accommodation, and childcare.

We’re looking for trustees

We’re looking to recruit dynamic, committed and motivated people with professional skills and experience who are as passionate as we are about empowering individuals to work through and beyond their experience of sexual abuse.

Specific qualifications are not necessarily required and we welcome applicants with lived experience. A genuine interest in learning about our charity and our services within the local community is essential.

These trustees will help to form a new board dedicated to supporting the charity and contributing to the effective and quality governance of Trust House. You will play an active role in developing the strategic direction of the charity and provide guidance to ensure the charity continues to support anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse in the Thames Valley area.

About Children With Voices

Children With Voices (CWV) is a grassroots charity supporting children, young people, and families through alternative education, life-skills programmes, wellbeing activities, and community food hubs.
Our mission is to empower children with confidence, resilience, and the tools they need to thrive. We work closely with local schools, families, and partners to create safe, supportive learning environments where every child is valued and heard.

Role: Youth Mentor / Support Worker

Location: Community sites / schools
Hours: 2–4 hours per week (flexible)
Contract: Volunteer
Reports to: Head of Programmes & Education

Role Overview

As a Youth Mentor, you will provide emotional, practical and wellbeing support to young people who need a positive role model. You will help build resilience, confidence, and healthy life-skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 mentoring and group support

• Encourage positive behaviour, engagement and wellbeing

• Support workshops, activities and trips

• Build safe, trusting relationships with young people

• Report safeguarding concerns appropriately

• Log basic session notes and progress

Person Specification

Essential:

• Empathy, patience, and strong listening skills

• Experience supporting young people (formal or informal)

• Commitment to safeguarding and boundaries

Desirable:

• Experience in youth work, coaching or education

Benefits

• Safeguarding, mentoring and youth-work training

• Flexible volunteering

• Excellent experience for education, youth work, or social care careers

• Meaningful impact on young people’s lives

Sense is a leading disability charity, here to break down barriers alongside disabled people with complex needs. We use our knowledge and expertise to deliver personalised, creative and flexible support at every stage of life Together, we drive change, building a future where everyone has the power, choice and control to live the lives we choose. 

As part of our new three-year strategy, we’re delivering a transformational plan focused on strengthening support for disabled people with complex needs, driving social change and creating a fairer, more equal future. For further information visit: Transforming Sense, together: our three-year plan - Sense

Our Values

Our values shape the way we behave and work alongside disabled people with complex needs to break down barriers:

• We’re creating change
• We’re always learning
• We’re better together

We’re looking for dedicated Volunteer college governors to help shape and champion the future of Sense Colleges.

About the role: 

As a College Governor, you’ll play a vital non-executive role in ensuring our colleges continue to deliver excellent, inclusive education. You’ll help set the strategic direction, monitor performance, and provide independent oversight and support to senior leaders.

Key responsibilities: 

• Help guide the college’s long-term vision, mission, and strategic goals.
• Monitor progress against key priorities and quality improvement plans.
• Hold leaders to account for performance and outcomes that meet the needs of learners.
• Ensure the college complies with statutory and safeguarding duties.
• Oversee financial health and value for money.
• Review students’ progress through visits, reports, and case studies.
• Join one of our sub-committees — either Quality and Curriculum or Safeguarding and Health & Safety — depending on your skills and interests.

This is a meaningful opportunity to influence the education and support of young disabled people, while developing your own governance experience and leadership skills.

About you

This role would be a great fit if you:

• Are passionate about Sense’s mission to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Understand (or are keen to learn about) good governance and the Nolan Principles of public life.
• Have an interest in education, further education policy, or organisational leadership.
• Are committed to safeguarding and inclusive practice.
• Can dedicate around one day per month to attending meetings, undertaking training, and reviewing key documents.
• Have experience as a trustee, governor, or within education, health, or social care (desirable, but not essential).

Benefits

• Comprehensive induction and safeguarding training, plus ongoing development.
• Expenses reimbursed in line with our Volunteer Expenses Policy.
• A meaningful opportunity to use your skills for good – shaping positive futures for young people.
• Experience that enhances your governance, leadership, and strategic thinking skills.
• The satisfaction of giving back and being part of a values-driven community.
• Wellbeing support through Sense’s Mental Health First Aiders.

Important information

• Applicants must be 18 or over and have a UK address.
• An Enhanced DBS check is a legal requirement for this role due to the educational setting and the likelihood of regular contact with learners.
• Guidance and support will be provided throughout the DBS process.
• All volunteers must follow Sense’s policies, including those on Health & Safety, Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity, and Data Protection (GDPR).
• This role is voluntary and does not form part of an employment contract.

Ready to make an impact?

Join Sense as a College Governor and help shape a world where everyone is included.

Volunteering Opportunity

Digital Champion

What You’ll Do

Support people aged 50+ to build confidence with their phones, tablets, or computers. You’ll help them learn basic digital skills so they can stay connected and independent.

You will:

• Provide one-to-one support at Digital sessions
• Help with everyday tasks like email, Zoom, downloading apps
• Guide people to feel confident using their own devices
• Answer questions and troubleshoot problems
• Record support sessions on Charity Log
• Identify common digital needs and refer to extra resources if needed

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

• Confident using smartphones, tablets, and laptops
• Friendly and patient teaching style
• Clear communication
• Problem-solving and adaptability
• Good timekeeping and dependability

Time Commitment

Tuesdays 11:00 am – 1:00 pm (Dugdale Arts Centre)

Other weekdays between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Location: Dugdale Centre, 39 London Rd, Enfield EN2 6DS

Possibly some community groups across Enfield
Reports to: Digital Inclusion Lead

Ready to Apply?

Our Volunteer Opportunities Pack and Volunteer Application Form are attached and available to download.

If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, simply complete the application form and email it to us. (Email address included in the application pack)

Once we've received your application, we'll arrange an informal telephone chat to discuss the volunteer role(s) you're interested in, answer any questions you may have, and help you find the opportunity that's the best fit for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Connection Support has a range of services providing support to people at risk of homelessness or on the edge of needing social care. We work with people made vulnerable through debt, mental health issues, substance misuse, learning disability, and physical disabilities.

Volunteers play a key role in the provision of vital services to our clients.

Could you prevent loneliness and isolation in your community and become a befriender?

• Do you have 2-3 hours a week to give to a client suffering from loneliness or mental health? (For a mutual agreement of time and locations that meet clients’ needs)
• Can you offer support, through a listening ear and be a positive influence in a client’s life to help build self-esteem and confidence?
• Will you enable our clients to benefit from knowing someone is there to listen, be a friend, and check in on their wellbeing?

If you can answer ‘yes’ to these questions, then we would love to hear from you!

Key responsibilities

Your role will include, but is not restricted to the following tasks:

• Carry out weekly checks with the clients you are supporting. This can be in a variety of settings, e.g., family home, support home, or in the community (via face-to-face meetings, phone or video calls)
• Have fun, take clients on outings, and maybe share a hobby, sport, or an interest
• Collect prescriptions for clients and assist with their weekly shop
• Help clients rediscover social skills and confidence by building up and maintaining a close relationship
• Report any concerns to the Volunteer Coordinator

Skills required

No qualifications or volunteering experience is required; however, the below skills are essential:

• A non-judgemental approach
• Good listening and communication skills
• Reliable and trustworthy
• Respect confidentiality
• Be able to work on own initiative
• Ability to build effective working relationships with clients in a non-patronising way

About the Role 

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. We aim to increase inclusion and representation for the disability community across society. We have several different services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails and more. 

As Buttons & Bubbles continues to grow, we are hoping to put together a team of assistants who will be responsible for attending in-person fundraising opportunities. Volunteers will help with small tasks at the events we attend and organise. This may include helping children take part in our activities, setting up and packing away equipment, and engaging with families and members of the public. 

Who Are We Looking For? 

• Someone who is passionate about our mission of inclusion, representation, and belonging. 

• No prior experience is necessary, but an enthusiasm for creating events and supporting fundraising efforts is essential. 

• You should be happy working as part of a team while also being confident in taking on tasks independently. 

• Be able to commute to Surrey and Berkshire for our events. 

What Do We Expect? 

• Must be willing to undertake our training programme, which will be completed virtually at a time that suits you. 

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

• Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it, please discuss it with us, we’re happy to make small changes where appropriate.) 

• Have a positive attitude toward disability and illness. We’re always happy to answer questions about this. 

What Can You Expect? 

• A kind, caring, and nurturing company that values its people, staff, and volunteers. Our aim is to keep your wellbeing at the centre of our work. 

• A community group that does not currently operate a rota system of any kind. Therefore, you don’t have to commit your time regularly only when it suits you. 

• A positive and proactive approach to disability and illness. Any and all accommodations you require will be made. If you’d like to discuss something privately, please email us to arrange a confidential chat. 

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

• Make a difference in your community. 

• Have a positive impact on people’s lives. 

• Develop your current skills and gain new ones. 

• Demonstrate your commitment and reliability to future employers. 

• Show your ability to balance and manage your time effectively. 

• Build your confidence. 

• Explore new areas of interest by taking on additional tasks if you wish. 

The friendly Committee of South Harford & Tuckswood Community Association are looking for a new Secretary, if you would be happy to volunteer your time.

We meet once a month at Harford Community Centre on Mondays; usually the third Monday of the month.

The Secretary would prepare meeting agendas and take minutes of the meetings which would need to be processed on MS word.(laptop will be provided)

The Secretary would need to oversee the review cycle of our Centre policies, making sure these are updated as required. They would also need to act as the main point of contact with our HR company.

We have effective systems in place and are looking for an organised individual with good literacy skills to keep these going.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

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

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

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

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

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

Independent Visitor Volunteer

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

As an Independent Visitor Volunteer in England, you might:

• support the child/young person to experience enriching activities that contribute to their personal and cultural development 
• engage in activities such as pursuing hobbies, meeting for meals, or socialising in a community setting 
• listen to and support the young person, fostering a sense of safety and trust 
• help the young person develop social skills and increase their involvement in their community 
• develop a positive and lasting relationship, ensuring the young person feels valued and supported

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

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

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

ED&I Statement

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

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

To find out more click “Apply Now”. 

About Us
Age UK Buckinghamshire is a local, independent charity and part of the wider Age UK Network. We support older people across the county through vital services including befriending, information and advice, dementia support, practical help at home, and welfare benefits support - helping people stay independent, connected, and supported.

Our work is more important now than ever. Many older people face growing challenges such as the rising cost of living, social isolation, and difficulty accessing support.

As demand for our services continues to increase, community support is essential to help us reach more people in need. By raising awareness of what we do, we can ensure that older people know where to turn for help, and inspire others to support our work through volunteering, fundraising, and partnership.

About the Role
We are looking for enthusiastic and confident Charity Ambassadors who are passionate about giving back to their community and making a difference, to help raise awareness of our work. This is a rewarding and flexible role, ideal for individuals who enjoy meeting new people and speaking in public.

As a Charity Ambassador, you will represent Age UK Buckinghamshire at a range of events and settings such as community groups, Rotary Clubs, Church groups, and other local events and venues. You will help raise awareness of the support available to older people, providing information about our services and how people can access advice, practical help, and companionship when they need it.

You will also share the impact of our work by bringing it to life through real examples and stories, helping others understand the real difference this support makes to older people’s lives. By demonstrating this impact, you will highlight why support through fundraising, volunteering, and partnership opportunities is so important in helping us reach more people in need.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging presentations and talks about Age UK Buckinghamshire’s work
• Represent the charity at community events, meetings, and local groups
• Help raise awareness of services available to older people
• Promoting planned fundraising initiatives and activities.
• Thank and recognise supporters and fundraisers within the community
• Assist in reviewing, adapting, and improving presentation materials (e.g. PowerPoint slides)
• Act as a positive and professional ambassador for the organisation

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community
• Experience in public speaking and community engagement
• The chance to work alongside our Community Engagement, Fundraising, and Services teams
• Full training, including opportunities to shadow our services, and ongoing support from our team
• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses
• A chance to be part of a friendly and supportive charity network

Time commitment

This is a flexible role to suit your availability. Charity Ambassadors will be contacted as appropriate and offered the opportunity to attend events to which we are invited. Talks and events may be delivered alongside another volunteer or staff member, or occasionally independently.

Training & Support

All Charity Ambassadors will receive training, resources, and guidance to help them feel confident in delivering presentations and representing the charity. This will include opportunities to shadow our services and gain a deeper understanding of the support we provide to older people.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

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

What we need from you

You'll be:

• planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances
• providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Description

Sooty, the nation’s much-loved bear and a true national treasure, has featured on RNIB’s collection boxes for over 50 years. Thanks to generous public support, these iconic boxes have raised more than £13 million in donations.

We’re looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to join our network of Sooty Box collectors. In this flexible role, you’ll help place new boxes and collect and bank donations from Sooty Boxes in local shops, cafés and other businesses in your area. Whether you volunteer on your own, with a friend or as part of a group, you’ll be making a real difference in your community.

You can give as much or as little time as you like and fit the role around your other commitments.

Please note: Volunteers are expected to use their own transport and ideally should have access to a car. Mileage or public transport costs will be reimbursed.

How often will I be needed?

• 1 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• Requires 2 references

Become a Fundraisng Team Leader Volunter!

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

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

What we need from you

You'll be:

• supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• keeping financial records from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

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 Fundraising Volunteer, you’ll provide much-needed help looking after fundraising relationships, and with fundraising activities and events. You’ll help us look after the supporters who are fundraising for us — to make sure they’re happy and feel part of what we do. You’ll also support us with planning and running events, including preparation and making sure everything runs smoothly on the day.

In this role you’ll develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.