Customer volunteer roles

Our shops help raise lots of money for us. It’s always lovely chatting to our customers about the fabulous items we sell and telling them about the fantastic work that we do. You’ll get the chance to meet new people and make friends plus you’ll be part of an amazing team of volunteers.

There’s so much for you to get stuck in to when you’re volunteering in our shops. We get lots of donations and it's always exciting when one of our volunteers spots a real gem. You'll be taking in, sorting, steaming and pricing donations, rolling up your sleeves in the backroom as well as being on the shop floor.

Serving customers with a smile is so important. You’ll be using the till (don't worry, we'll show you how) and handling money. And when people come in to donate items you'll also be completing the Gift Aid forms that let their donations help us even more.

It’s really important that our window and shop displays look appealing so people keep visiting our shops. So you'll be wielding a duster and vacuum as well as your imagination to make the shop look its best.

It would be ideal if you could volunteer one shift a week, but we're also happy to have more flexible times and we do ask for a minimum commitment of three months. No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do and we provide all the training you’ll need. But if you have any experience or particular interest tell us, it may come in useful. It’s really easy to get your volunteering started. 

Just click on ‘Apply’ and get filling in your details and we'll be in touch very soon!

Overview:

The Administrator will play a vital role in supporting the smooth and efficient running of the organisation. This position involves handling administrative tasks, maintaining records, supporting communications, and assisting with event coordination. The role requires excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

General Administration:

• Maintain and update records, databases, and files.

• Handle correspondence, including emails and phone enquiries.

• Prepare reports, documents, and presentations as required.

• Support meeting coordination, including scheduling, agenda preparation, and minute-taking.

Financial & Office Support:

• Assist with processing invoices, expenses, and financial records.

• Monitor office supplies and place orders when necessary.

• Support the Head of Operations with budget tracking and financial documentation.

Event & Programme Support:

• Assist in organising events, workshops, and meetings.

• Coordinate logistics, including venue booking, catering, and materials.

• Support volunteer and participant communications.

Communications & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Maintain mailing lists and support donor communications.

• Assist in preparing newsletters, social media updates, and website content.

• Liaise with stakeholders, including funders, partners, and volunteers.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Previous experience in an administrative role.

• Strong organisational and time-management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and cloud-based tools

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

• A passion for nonprofit work and community engagement.

This role is ideal for a detail-oriented and proactive individual who enjoys providing essential support to ensure the smooth running of a charitable organisation.

Fundraising volunteer

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

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 volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you! 

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

This is a really flexible role, you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example: 

• face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins 

• online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations

• marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press  

• completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork

● championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement

● photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection

Time expectation

This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!

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

Key Responsibilities

 •  Identify and apply for grants and funding opportunities that align with our goals.

 •  Cultivate relationships with individual donors, corporate partners, and foundations.

 •  Maintain accurate records of donations, track progress toward goals, and prepare reports for leadership.

Key Skills and Qualifications

 •  Proven experience in fundraising, sales, marketing, or nonprofit development.

 •  Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to inspire and engage diverse audiences.

 •  Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.

 •  Familiarity with fundraising platforms, CRM systems, and social media marketing is a plus.

Fundraising team leader volunteer

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

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.

Help create a safe, welcoming space where carers can talk openly, share experiences, and connect with others in similar situations. 

As a Carer Support Volunteer, you’ll offer a friendly presence, emotional support, and practical help to ensure each session runs smoothly. Your contribution will help carers feel valued, understood, and better supported in their caring role.

Availability: Up to 2 hours per week

Time: Flexible to suit group schedules

Location: Chesterfield

Criteria: Minimum 18 years of age. A criminal records check is required, covered by Marie Curie 

What you'll do:

• Support the facilitator with planning and running the Carer Support Group
• Welcome attendees, providing a friendly, supportive atmosphere
• Build a positive rapport with attendees
• Listen to carers and help them feel confident participating
• Provide sensitive reassurance and additional support where needed
• Advocate for and promote the service
• Complete a short report following each session

Why you’d be a great fit:

• Caring and compassionate nature
• Patient and good listening skills
• Comfortable with sensitive topics, such as death, dying and bereavement
• Team spirit - contributing to a positive team dynamic
• Respect for confidentiality and boundaries
• Commitment, flexibility and reliability

What you can expect from us:

• Flexibility to volunteer around your schedule
• A deep sense of purpose and connection
• Full training, ongoing support and wellbeing support
• A friendly volunteer network
• Recognition for your time
• Updates on the difference you’re making
• Long Service Awards

Contact us for more information

Face Painter Volunteer

About The Role

As a face painter you will be out and about in the grounds, engaging with visitors to create memories and helping them and you to have a great day out!

We believe that the best way for people to understand and connect to wetlands is to experience them, so we awe-inspiring nature up close at Martin Mere Wetland Centre, visitors can explore unique wetland habitats and the amazing array of birds and mammals that inhabit them. Our volunteers help to welcome and inspire visitors.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You’ll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 
 
If you are interested in volunteering for WWT but don’t wish to apply online, please email us or give us a call and leave a message with your name and number. 
 
Just to let you know, some of our roles are very popular. To help our teams and minimise disappointment for people kind enough to want to support us, we might take roles down before the closing date if we get a lot of applications. If you do miss a role, or are looking for something particular, you can sign up to opportunity alerts. 
 

About You 

This role will suit you if you:

• Have good communication skills and an outgoing personality
• Looking for some relevant work experience
• Have a willingness to talk to visitors both on a one-to-one level and to larger groups
• Are interested in education related activities and the natural environment
• Have excellent customer service skills
• Enjoy working with families and children
• Have previous experience of face painting
• Are happy volunteering on your own initiative under the direction of the Visitor Experience Manager

Please note that unfortunately this role is not suitable for Under 18’s.

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT:
 

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife – talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake…
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

How to Apply: 

For more information on this fun role, and others, and to apply, please visit our website. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

Fundraising events helper

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes 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:

· help set up and/or man stalls at events

· help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections

· help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances

· promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

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.

Job Description

We are looking for a Volunteer Digital Marketing Director to help lead and coordinate our digital outreach and growth strategy.

You will help develop and manage the organisation’s digital marketing activities, ensuring campaigns, content and communication channels work together to raise awareness and engage supporters.

This role involves working closely with the Founder and Digital Marketing team to guide digital campaigns, support online engagement and help build systems that allow the organisation to grow.

The role focuses on strategy, coordination and improving the impact of digital campaigns and outreach.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the organisation’s digital marketing strategy
• Support the planning and delivery of digital campaigns across platforms
• Work with content, design and campaign teams to align messaging and activities
• Help build digital pathways for volunteers, donors and supporters to engage with the organisation
• Monitor campaign performance and recommend improvements
• Oversee tools such as email marketing platforms, social media channels and CRM systems
• Ensure digital activities follow data protection and GDPR guidelines
• Provide updates and insights to leadership on digital performance

What We’re Looking For

• Experience or strong interest in digital marketing strategy or campaign management
• Ability to coordinate multiple digital channels such as social media, email and websites
• Experience working with tools such as CRM systems, email marketing platforms or digital collaboration tools
• Strong organisational and leadership skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with a remote volunteer team
• Interest in social impact, community engagement or nonprofit work
• Experience in nonprofit digital marketing or campaign strategy is helpful but not required

What You’ll Gain

• Leadership experience helping guide the digital strategy of a growing organisation
• Opportunity to help build digital systems and campaigns from the ground up
• Hands-on experience working with a multidisciplinary digital team
• Priority consideration for future paid roles when funding becomes available

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help.
Our Cat welfare team leaders have the important role of coordinating, encouraging and supporting teams of fosterer volunteers and cat care volunteers.
They help make sure volunteers with direct cat care roles are happy and confident and provide advice and guidance when needed.
This incredible teamwork means we are able to help more cats and kittens in need.

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:

• Volunteering alongside colleagues including the branch coordinator/team leader, Cat Welfare team, branch development manager and Vet team to ensure that cat care policies, procedures and standards are applied
• Support fosterers to follow cat welfare policies and procedures
• Acting as the main point of contact within the branch for cat welfare and ensuring that welfare updates are shared and implemented effectively
• Supporting the branch by ensuring that accurate and up to date records of all cats helped are maintained, using specified systems
• Attending relevant volunteer training sessions and encouraging other volunteers to do likewise
• With the other volunteers, recruit, induct and support all branch fosterers and cat care volunteers
• Represent the branch at relevant meetings
• Play an active part in the branch committee, being part of the branch team leading on cat adoption information and updates
• Collaborating with the cat adoption team leader to ensure the highest standards of cat care are applied in line with our policies and procedures

Time expectation

The time expectation for this role will vary depending on the number of volunteers and cats in care. Our cat welfare team leaders usually spend between 10 to 12 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.

Position Overview:
The Programme Coordinator provides critical administrative and logistical support to ensure the smooth operation of the employability and skills development programme. As the first point of contact for participants, this role focuses on managing inquiries, maintaining records, coordinating schedules, and facilitating seamless communication between participants, trainers, and stakeholders. The Programme Coordinator plays a vital role in ensuring participants feel supported and programme activities are delivered efficiently.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Participant Engagement & Support:

   • Serve as the primary contact for participants, responding to inquiries via phone, email, or in person, and providing guidance on programme logistics, enrollment, and resources.

   • Manage participant registration, onboarding, and attendance tracking for workshops, training sessions, and events.

2. Administrative Coordination:

   • Maintain accurate and up-to-date participant records, including personal details, progress updates, and post-programme employment outcomes, ensuring compliance with data protection policies.

   • Schedule and coordinate meetings, training sessions, and stakeholder events, including room bookings, material preparation, and calendar management.

3. Documentation & Reporting:

   • Prepare and distribute programme-related materials, such as handbooks, training agendas, and certificates of completion.

   • Assist in compiling data for reports on participant engagement, attendance, and feedback to support programme evaluation.

4. Logistics & Communication:

   • Manage programme logistics, including training materials, technology setups, and participant resources.

   • Draft and send routine communications (e.g., reminders, updates) to participants, trainers, and partners.

5. Compliance & Record-Keeping:

   • Ensure all participant files and programme documentation adhere to organisational policies and grant requirements.

   • Support audit processes by maintaining organised participant consent forms, evaluations, and feedback records.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: A high school diploma is required; an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in administration, communications, social sciences, or a related field is preferred.

• Experience:

  • 1–2 years in administrative support, customer service, or programme coordination, preferably in education, non-profits, or workforce development.

  • Experience managing high-volume inquiries and maintaining detailed records.

• Skills:

  • Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks in a fast-paced environment.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a customer-service-oriented approach.

  • Proficiency in Google products (Forms, Docs, Sheets, Slides) and familiarity with databases or CRM systems.

  • Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in data entry and reporting.

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.

Volunteer Prospect Researcher
This role supports our fundraising efforts by identifying and researching potential donors, funders, and partners. Responsibilities include online research, data analysis, and preparing prospect profiles to support strategic fundraising.

What we’re looking for:

• Strong attention to detail and good organisational skills

• Comfort working with data, research, or CRM/databases (training can be provided where needed)

• Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality

• An interest in fundraising and supporting our mission

What we offer:

• Flexible, remote volunteering opportunities

• The chance to develop or apply valuable fundraising and data skills

• A supportive team environment and meaningful contribution to our work

Join us at Shaw Trust as a Volunteer Retail Assistant and help us raise vital funds to support communities across the UK. As a not-for-profit charity, all our proceeds go to helping people around the UK. 

Whether you prefer to volunteer behind the scenes or to engage with customers, there’s plenty for you to get involved with. 

We believe that everyone has something to offer, even if you have no retail experience. We’ll give you all the training and support you need to make you feel comfortable and confident here. 

Key Tasks 

Every day is different in our shop – that’s part of the fun! 

• Sorting donations, including steaming and pricing them

• Serving customers at the till and helping donors/supporters 

• Create stylish window displays 

• Keeping the shop fully stocked and tidy 

What’s in it for you 

• Improve your skills and boost your CV 

• Grow your confidence and meet new people 

• Receive some lunch and travel expenses 

• Flexibility around your health, education, family, work or other commitments 

• You’ll be staying social and active 

What we’re asking for 

• We typically ask for around 4 hours a week but we can be flexible 

• That you’re helpful and happy to be part of a team 

• Volunteers in our shop must be aged 14 or older 

Volunteering is a great way to make a real difference and build your skills. If you have any questions, just ask!  
 

Tempted? Click Apply now and we'll get back to you soon! 

Join Shaw Trust 

Shaw Trust is a national charity which helps people to achieve their potential, find meaningful employment, and boost their wellbeing.

From Glasgow to Glastonbury, our 32 shops raise over £1,000,000 annually to help us support 300,000 people.

We know everyone has something to offer. With over 350 volunteers in our shops, you can be part of a committed and caring team, giving time to improve communities across the UK.

Shaw Trust Registered Charity No. England & Wales: 287785. Scotland: SC039856.   

Fundraising events helper

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes 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:

· help set up and/or man stalls at events

· help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections

· help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances

· promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

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.