Criminal justice volunteer roles
Are you passionate about sustainability and making a real difference in people’s lives?
Join Life Cycle’s Bikes Beyond Bars project, an award-winning environmental and social initiative that combines bike recycling, skills training, and rehabilitation.
What you’ll do
- Work alongside course participants in prison workshops, helping them to refurbish a wide range of donated bikes.
- Support learners to develop practical cycle maintenance skills and work towards an industry-recognised professional qualification.
- Provide hands-on assistance alongside experienced Prison Bike Mechanic Tutors.
- Contribute to a positive, supportive learning environment that boosts confidence, employability, and community integration.
By helping refurbish bikes that would otherwise go to waste. You’ll also make a meaningful impact on the participants’ journey toward rehabilitation, helping them gain training that can open doors to future employment.
"Life Cycle helped me massively in prison, keeping me occupied and out of the cell… I contacted Life Cycle when I was released because I wanted to give back something to the people that helped me. I felt respected and treated as a valued member of society, not just an ex-con." – Jon (name changed)
About you
- Someone who enjoys practical, hands-on work
- Good mechanical skills (if you’re unsure, get in touch!)
- Sympathetic to working with people in prison
- You believe in the possibility of change for those who have been involved in the criminal justice system
- Enthusiastic about Life Cycle’s charitable mission, vision, and values.
Please note, applicants need to be aware that due to the nature of this role you will be required to be vetted up to Enhanced Level 1 security clearance.Having a criminal record will not necessarily exclude you from volunteering in this role.Give us a ring if you would like to talk about it first.
About Life Cycle
Life Cycle is a charity that works with people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds at every stage of their cycling journey, from learning to ride, to building a career in the cycle industry.
We’re a charity that transforms lives and the environment through cycling



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
Why join the Witness Service now
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Outreach Volunteers provide support to witnesses when they are attending court, as well as pre-trial and post-trial helping them to feel safe and informed. You will provide support to both prosecution and defence witnesses.
Why volunteer with us?
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Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with witnesses.
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Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
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Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2000 volunteers and staff.
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Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
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Be 18 years of age or over.
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Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
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Undertake training – this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
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Undertake an Enhanced DBS with Child Barred List check & be part of the DBS Update Service.
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Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
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Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Expenses
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All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.
Diversity Matters
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VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
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VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
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We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
Why join the Witness Service now
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
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Be 18 years of age or over.
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Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
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Undertake training - this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
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Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
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Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
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Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
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VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
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We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer - Travel expenses only
Flexible - Monday to Friday
West Midlands Area – based around local treatment services - Bloxwich, Bournville, Coventry, Oldbury, Perry Barr, Stechford and Wolverhampton
Closing date: Monday, 30th March 2026 at 9.00am
Interview date: Rolling Basis
Are you a proactive, collaborative and compassionate individual with proven experience of working positively with adults to engage successfully despite ‘challenging’ behaviour? Do you have the ability to be a positive role model, demonstrating the virtues of engaging with treatment support services?
If so, St Giles is looking for a Lived Experienced Peer Volunteer to join our team and provide interventions and build meaningful, peer-led relationships with service users to encourage them to engage in drug and alcohol treatment following arrest.
About St Giles Trust
An ambitious, well-established charity that helps people facing adversity to find jobs, homes and the right support they need. Central to our ethos is our belief that people with first-hand experience of successfully overcoming issues such as an offending background, homelessness, addictions and gang involvement, hold the key to positive change in others.
About this key role
As a Peer Volunteer, you will increase client engagement with drug and alcohol treatment services by providing vital peer-led support and building trust and motivation among a client group that has been historically disengaged/not offered support previously. You will provide holistic, short-term intervention to bridge the gap between referral and full treatment engagement, capture client experiences and barriers to improve service design and accessibility and develop a strong service user voice to inform future service improvements.
Areas of support from Peer Volunteers may also include initial engagement and motivation such as welcome calls, check-ins, peer-led conversations and motivational chats over coffee. You may also offer practical support such as appointment reminders, transport assistance and paperwork support, plus help to build positive routines such as activity-based engagement and supporting small lifestyle changes, including meal planning, budgeting, and time management.
What we are looking for
- Personal experience of the criminal justice system or lived experience of the issues facing this client group (i.e. experience of substance misuse and recovery)
- Proven experience of working in a high intensity environment, being self-motivating, with an ability to effectively manage your own wellbeing
- Knowledge of the issues facing those arrested for potential criminal offences
- Knowledge of, and commitment to, safeguarding practices and policies
- The ability to use monitoring systems to record all aspects of the work
- Excellent interpersonal, relationship-building and communication skills, verbal and written.
Please note: as an organisation that works with children and adults at risk we are committed to safeguarding, protecting and promoting the safety of our clients and successful applicants will be subject to an Enhanced Child Workforce with Child Barred list DBS.
We are an equity and inclusion confident employer. We welcome all applications, and we particularly encourage applications from people of the global majority (black, brown, multi- heritage) and those who identify as disabled, neuroexpansive, neurodiverse, with any protected characteristics and/or social barriers or challenges. We value the empowering and informative impact that all lived experiences and diversity of thought can offer the organisation.
St Giles will guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria set out in the Job Description for the vacancy.
To apply visit our website via the apply button.
Closing date: Monday, 30th March 2026 at 9.00am
Interview date: Rolling Basis
We will be reviewing applications as they are received and reserve the right to close this advert early if a suitable candidate is appointed. We therefore strongly encourage early applications to avoid any disappointment.
We help people held back by poverty, unemployment, the criminal justice system, homelessness, exploitation and abuse to build a positive future.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
-
Be 18 years of age or over.
-
Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
-
Undertake training - this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
-
Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
-
Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
-
Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
-
VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
-
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Trailblazers’ mission is to reduce re-offending and inspire new futures. Your support will help a young man to reconnect with his community, friends and loved ones, go into education, training and employment, and give a person a sense of hope for the future.
Trailblazers has been providing mentoring services to people in prison since 1998 with ultimate aim to reduce re-offending. We provide support to men between the age of 18 - 35 in custody who have 6 months left of their prison sentence, and then 'through the gate' into their own community for up to 12 months. The Education, Training & Employment (ETE) team supports our mentees in custody to break down barriers to employability. Post-release, this continues by supporting mentees to gain meaningful and career changing roles in sector specific industries such as Construction, Engineering, Catering & Hospitality or the Self-Employment route.
The ETE team are looking to build a team of volunteers to work with mentees in the community and to shape the existing ETE service in the Thames Valley area. We are looking for volunteer mentors who can commit for up to 12 months and give a few hours a week to support men to change their life by being inspirational role models, helping with goal setting and supporting their mentee to access ETE opportunities and ultimately gain meaningful employment. Mentoring sessions will be 1:1, take place weekly and can be done remotely by telephone or online. These sessions will last approximately one hour, but some time should also be given to liaising with Trailblazers staff and researching relevant opportunities.
Induction training is provided, out of pocket expenses covered, a mobile phone is provided to protect your identity, a Trailblazers T-shirt and lanyard are provided, DBS costs are covered, as well as regular reflective practice sessions to support you within your role.
We are actively looking for people to join our mentoring community with lived experience of the criminal justice system, under represented groups from BAME community, creative arts, business skills, wellbeing - whatever your skills and background we are open to hear from you to support our diverse group of men.
Trailblazers are looking for Volunteer Mentors who are:
- Empathetic with a positive outlook and manner.
- Able to help others without judgement or discrimination.
- Excellent communicators with a sense of humour.
- Well organised, can prioritise and multi-task.
- Reliable and able to commit to the role for up to 12 months providing weekly ETE sessions remotely either by telephone or via Zoom / MS Team digital platforms.
- Have skills and experience in supporting those who are disadvantaged into education, training and employment (ETE).
- Able to work independently with the ability to prioritise and manage your own workload with minimal supervision taking a flexible and creative approach to the demands of the post.
- Able to demonstrate sensitivity to other cultures, working with people from other backgrounds and demonstrate a commitment to equal opportunities.
- Live within a 30 mile radius of Bicester.
Trailblazers’ mission is to reduce re-offending and inspire new futures for young men (18-35) leaving prison.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you want to help to make a real difference to the lives of women and girls?
We are looking to appoint a Trustee, who can support our communications and fundraising ambitions and act as the Chair of the Fundraising, Communications and Development Committee
Role Type: Voluntary
Location: London
Renumeration: While the role of a Trustee is not remunerated, reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.
Time commitment:
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Five Board meetings per year (in person in Hammersmith west London), plus membership of at least one board sub-committee (four meetings a year online)
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Ad hoc availability as matters arise (by telephone)
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Participate in one strategy away day each year (on a Saturday, usually held in January)
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Commit to the Board of Trustees for at least three years
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Note - the Chair of the Fundraising, Communications and Development Committee will be expected to chair a committee meeting four times a year (online) in addition to the Board meetings
Please note: Any offer of employment will be made subject to references, confirmation of the right to work in the UK, satisfactory DBS check and relevant legal and regulatory compliance checks.
Advance is committed to equality and diversity and aims to have a board of trustees that reflects the communities we work with. We strongly encourage applications from women including those with disabilities, from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds and those from LGBTQ+ communities.
About us
Our vision is a world where women and girls lead safe, just and equal lives. Advance is a women’s organisation delivering systems change, and trauma and gender-informed community-based support for women and girls affected by domestic abuse, including those in contact with the criminal justice system. We work nationally through our innovative, best-practice approach and systems change initiatives. We deliver wraparound frontline services across the South and East of England, including Greater London.
Our expertise lies in decades of providing specialist support by women and for women and girls, to achieve safety, justice and equality at the intersection of domestic abuse and the criminal justice system.
Our whole-system approach is aligned with our values of collaboration and innovation, partnering with other statutory and non-statutory providers, to deliver a coordinated community and gendered response, improving access to services across the whole system, enabling consistency and continuity of support throughout a woman’s journey.
Through our advocacy and awareness-raising work, we focus on systemic change and sustainable impact to meet women’s needs and improve their outcomes.
This is an exciting opportunity for you to join our experienced, committed and fully inclusive Board.
You will join a dedicated and skilled board comprised of women and men to support the charity through a significant period of growth. Our staff team now includes over 170 skilled and passionate women across our programmes and our 10 women's centres in London and the South and East of England.
About the role
We are looking to appoint a Trustee to act as the Chair of the Fundraising, Communications and Development Committee. This is a vital role for an experienced and strategic thinker who can guide Advance’s efforts to grow income, diversify funding streams, and enhance our visibility and voice. As Trustee, you will work closely with fellow trustees and the senior leadership team to provide leadership, to challenge, and support in developing sustainable income strategies and impactful communications.
Key Responsibilities
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Chair and help shape the agenda for the Fundraising, Communications and Development Committee
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Provide strategic oversight and governance for fundraising (grants and trusts, corporates, individuals), income diversification, and partnership development with brands and events
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Support the delivery and monitoring of income generation plans and KPIs
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Work with the internal team and guide our brand strategy, messaging, and stakeholder communications
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Advise on business development opportunities
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Ensure that fundraising and marketing activities reflect and align our mission and values
Experience required
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Senior experience in fundraising, business development, communications, marketing, or income strategy, ideally in the charity, public, or commercial sectors
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Confident chairing meetings, building consensus, and offering challenge in a constructive way
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Ability to think strategically and spot opportunities for innovation and growth
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An understanding of governance, impact, and how to balance ambition with sustainability
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Successful experience of operating within a board in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation
Knowledge, skills and understanding required
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Commitment to the organisation and a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
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Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the board, and a willingness to speak their mind
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Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis
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Good, independent judgement and strategic vision
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An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
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An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
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An understanding of the respective roles of the Chair, Trustees and Chief Executive
Closing Date for Applications: Sunday 22nd March 2026
Interviews: On a rolling basis
First-round interview, via Microsoft Teams.
Second-round interview will be in person at Advance Hammersmith
*Advance reserves the right to close the advert early, or on the appointment of a candidate.
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Reasonable Adjustments
Under the Equality Act 2010, we are required to make any reasonable adjustments. If you have a disability as defined under this act and/or have additional needs, please email the Talent Acquisition Team via the Advance website and will aim to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.
Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunities
We are committed to providing equality of opportunity and actively seek to recruit people from groups underrepresented in our current team. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay and benefits.
Safeguarding
Advance is committed to safeguarding and creating a culture of zero-tolerance of harm and expects all staff, including volunteers to share this commitment. We believe all individuals have the right to live their life free from violence and abuse and the right to feel and be safe. We have a suite of safeguarding policies, procedures and practice guidance, accessible to all staff, which promotes safeguarding and safer working practices across all our services and activities. When we recruit staff, we follow rigorous safer recruitment practices, this involves carrying out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and identity checks. We ensure all staff undertake mandatory safeguarding training relevant to their role and responsibilities, to empower them to be competent and feel confident in recognising and responding appropriately to safeguarding issues and promote wellbeing.
Our vision is a world in which women and children lead safe, equal, violence-free lives so that they can flourish and actively contribute to society.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Last year 786,574 people were offered information and support from Victim Support. As a VS Community Engagement Fundraising Volunteer, you will help us reach more victims of crime.
Why volunteer with us?
- Make a difference – you will use your local knowledge to share what we do and how we can help.
- Gain skills and experience – you will learn the skills to effectively present and engage.
- Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 1,500 volunteers and staff.
- Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
Volunteering with Victim Support in Essex
As a Volunteer in Essex your role will include:
- Identifying fundraising opportunities, organising and attending events and meetings to raise our VS profile
- Engaging with our local communities to inform them about crime and our work
- Gaining experience in planning and organising events and delivering presentations.
- Working in partnerships with local Community Voluntary Services (CVS), universities and other local partnership organisations.
- Representing Victim Support at CVS events, university events, pride events and local fetes.
What we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Community Engagement Volunteer, you must:
- Be 18 years of age or over.
- Be able to volunteer for at least 2-4 hours per week, for at least 6 months.
- Complete a 3-day workbook.
- Undertake a DBS check where required
- Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
- Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Expenses
- All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.
Diversity Matters
- VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
- VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
- We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?
Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.
We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.
Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.
Volunteer recruitment dates
The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.
Training:
You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.
Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:
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27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
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3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
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10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
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1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)
You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.
Why we want you
Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.
What you will be doing
- Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
- Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
- Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
- Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
- Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
- Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
- Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
- Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
- Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
- Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
- Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering
The skills you need
- A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
- Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
- Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
- Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
- Able to manage own time and prioritise
- Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
- Able to use IT
What's in it for you
- Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
- Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
- You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
- All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
- We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
- We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role
Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?
Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.
We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.
Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.
Volunteer recruitment dates
The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.
Training:
You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.
Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:
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27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
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3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
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10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
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1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)
You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.
Why we want you
Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.
What you will be doing
- Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
- Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
- Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
- Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
- Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
- Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
- Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
- Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
- Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
- Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
- Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering
The skills you need
- A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
- Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
- Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
- Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
- Able to manage own time and prioritise
- Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
- Able to use IT
What's in it for you
- Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
- Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
- You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
- All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
- We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
- We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role
Disclaimer
In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Last year 786,574 people were offered information and support from Victim Support. As a VS Community Engagement Fundraising Volunteer, you will help us reach more victims of crime.
Why volunteer with us?
- Make a difference – you will use your local knowledge to share what we do and how we can help.
- Gain skills and experience – you will learn the skills to effectively present and engage.
- Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 1,500 volunteers and staff.
- Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
Volunteering with Victim Support in Essex
As a Volunteer in Essex your role will include:
- Organising and attending events and meetings to raise our VS profile
- Engaging with our local communities to inform them about crime and our work
- Gaining experience in planning and organising events and delivering presentations.
- Working in partnerships with local Community Voluntary Services (CVS), universities and other local partnership organisations.
- Representing Victim Support at CVS events, university events, pride events and local fetes.
What we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Community Engagement Volunteer, you must:
- Be 18 years of age or over.
- Be able to volunteer for at least 2-4 hours per month, for at least 6 months.
- Complete a 3-day workbook.
- Undertake a DBS check where required
- Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
- Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Expenses
- All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.
Diversity Matters
- VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
- VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
- We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Last year 786,574 people were offered information and support from Victim Support. As a VS Community Engagement Volunteer, you will help us reach more victims of crime.
Why volunteer with us?
- Make a difference – you will use your local knowledge to share what we do and how we can help.
- Gain skills and experience – you will learn the skills to effectively present and engage.
- Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 1,500 volunteers and staff.
- Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
Volunteering with Victim Support in Staffordshire
As a Volunteer in Staffordshire your role will include:
- Making a real impact by helping people affected by crime feel safer, supported, and empowered.
- Building valuable skills and confidence through specialist training in safeguarding, risk assessment, and supporting victims of crime.
- Representing Victim Support at local events and community activities, raising awareness and connecting with people who need help.
- Networking with local organisations and community partners, gaining insight into multi-agency working and referral pathways.
What we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Community Engagement Volunteer, you must:
- Be 18 years of age or over.
- Be able to volunteer for at least 3 hours per month, for at least 3 months.
- Complete a 3-day workbook.
- Undertake an enhanced DBS check where required
- Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
- Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Expenses
- All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.
Diversity Matters
- VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
- VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
- We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Service Delivery Volunteer
Last year 786,574 people were offered information and support from Victim Support. As a Service Delivery Volunteer you will provide specialist support services for people affected by crime.
Why volunteer with us?
· Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and/or alongside staff.
· Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
· Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 1,500 volunteers and staff.
· Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
Volunteering with Victim Support in Staffordshire
As a Volunteer in Staffordshire your role will include:
· Making a real impact by helping people affected by crime feel safer, supported, and empowered.
· Building valuable skills and confidence through specialist training in safeguarding, risk assessment, and supporting victims of crime.
· Representing Victim Support at local events and community activities, raising awareness and connecting with people who need help.
· Networking with local organisations and community partners, gaining insight into multi-agency working and referral pathways.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Service Delivery Volunteer, you must:
· Be 18 years of age or over.
· Be able to volunteer for at least 3 hours per week, for at least 12 months.
· Undertake training over a 10-week period – this includes five virtual training days as well as completing a workbook and online learning modules.
· Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
· Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
· Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Expenses
· All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.
Diversity Matters
· VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
· VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
· We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Service Delivery Volunteer
Last year 786,574 people were offered information and support from Victim Support. As a Service Delivery Volunteer you will provide specialist support services for people affected by crime.
Why volunteer with us?
· Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and/or alongside staff.
· Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
· Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 1,500 volunteers and staff.
· Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
Volunteering with Victim Support in Staffordshire
As a Volunteer in Staffordshire your role will include:
· Making a real impact by helping people affected by crime feel safer, supported, and empowered.
· Building valuable skills and confidence through specialist training in safeguarding, risk assessment, and supporting victims of crime.
· Representing Victim Support at local events and community activities, raising awareness and connecting with people who need help.
· Networking with local organisations and community partners, gaining insight into multi-agency working and referral pathways.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Service Delivery Volunteer, you must:
· Be 18 years of age or over.
· Be able to volunteer for at least 3 hours per week, for at least 12 months.
· Undertake training over a 10-week period – this includes five virtual training days as well as completing a workbook and online learning modules.
· Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
· Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
· Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Expenses
· All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.
Diversity Matters
· VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
· VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
· We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Service Delivery Volunteer
Last year 786,574 people were offered information and support from Victim Support. As a Service Delivery Volunteer you will provide specialist support services for people affected by crime.
Why volunteer with us?
· Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and/or alongside staff.
· Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
· Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 1,500 volunteers and staff.
· Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
Volunteering with Victim Support in Staffordshire
As a Volunteer in Staffordshire your role will include:
· Making a real impact by helping people affected by crime feel safer, supported, and empowered.
· Building valuable skills and confidence through specialist training in safeguarding, risk assessment, and supporting victims of crime.
· Representing Victim Support at local events and community activities, raising awareness and connecting with people who need help.
· Networking with local organisations and community partners, gaining insight into multi-agency working and referral pathways.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Service Delivery Volunteer, you must:
· Be 18 years of age or over.
· Be able to volunteer for at least 3 hours per week, for at least 12 months.
· Undertake training over a 10-week period – this includes five virtual training days as well as completing a workbook and online learning modules.
· Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
· Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
· Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Expenses
· All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.
Diversity Matters
· VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
· VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
· We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


