Customer service volunteer roles

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. 

Please note that volunteers must be over 16 years of age.

Volunteering in the shop

Our Totnes Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children. 

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related). 

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button. 

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. 

Volunteer Drivers 

Enthusiastic, hands-on volunteers needed to help provide food to the community. Bounds Green Food Bank is fortunate in receiving food and other donations from local supermarkets, businesses and individuals. We are grateful to our team of volunteer drivers who both collect and deliver on the food bank’s behalf each week. 

Hours: At any time during the week - this is a very flexible role and there is no minimum time commitment, can choose deliveries to suit your own schedule.

Location: Around the Enfield and Haringey area

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 1,500 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items to build a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people who find themselves in a crisis situation where they need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

Requirements:

• A driver's license and your own vehicle

• WhatsApp, as this is how deliveries are organised

The role: 

• Each week a timetable showing scheduled food donations by local stores and businesses is posted on the volunteer drivers’ WhatsApp group

• Drivers indicate to the group that they are able to make a particular collection, adding their name to the schedule (this is editable by all chat members)

• Once collected, the donation will need to be delivered either to the hall or to a nearby storage facility according to instructions

• The food bank also makes up parcels for guests unable to access the hall in person. Drivers collect from the hall and deliver  to guests, all of whom live within the surrounding area

Person specification: 

• Flexible

• Attend training as required (Zoom Induction)

• A patient and cheerful approach are helpful! 

Benefits:

• Flexible - book deliveries to suit your own schedule!

• Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!

• Gain access to free workshops for volunteers and upskill on a range of topics (conflict resolution, mental health first aid, arts and crafts, and more)

• Join free social events for volunteers (such as picnics, walks, games nights and celebration events)

• Gain a sense of community and meet the huge team of volunteers

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

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.  

About the Witness Service  

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: 

• 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.

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. 

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

WHAT WE OFFER YOU

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

ABOUT US

As a sustainability charity, we take donated surplus (over-stocked) food and redistribute it to people in need.
The initiatives we support include food banks, schools, community groups and charities.

Our vital work supports people experiencing extreme hardship and prevents good food going to landfill, where it would contribute to climate warming through greenhouse gas emissions. 

We need help in our warehouse to receive and record supplies, load and unload vans, and prepare orders for delivery.
In return, we offer training and support to help you obtain skills and experience if you are seeking work.
If you're not looking for a job, volunteering with us is rewarding in many other ways; offering an opportunity to make friends, keep physically active and support your community.

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

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

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

Volunteers are typically involved on one day a week.

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

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

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

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

Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)

Do you want to make a real difference to Scope, the disability equality charity, and our income?

Would you like to help run a shop and learn leadership skills?

Are you 18 years old or over? 

You might like our charity shop supervisor role! 

About this role 

You will be one of the leaders in your local charity shop making a difference to your local community whilst helping other volunteers to have a great experience. You will be required to take on Scope’s level 1 training course when you start. You will work through the training with your manager so you have the chance to ask lots of questions and feel confident in your role.

Your role may include: 

• supporting the shop manager and assistant shop manager 
• supporting other volunteers 
• delegating tasks 
• supervising young volunteers 
• handling deliveries
• banking and cashing up 
• being a key-holder, opening and closing the shop

When and where 

You will be in our Scope Gillingham shop, 45 High Street, Gillingham, Dorset, SP8 4AA. We are flexible on the times you would like to volunteer. We’d love your help for a couple of hours a week, but if you can give more time that would help us even more.

Who we’re looking for 

• kind and friendly attitude 
• reliable and responsible 
• willing to undertake training modules and complete a test at the end 
• motivated to develop your skills, particularly in leadership 
• friendly and passionate about disability equality! 

We particularly welcome applications from disabled people. Equality and inclusion are at the heart of Scope’s mission. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all volunteers.

Skills and experience you can gain 

• customer service 
• leadership 
• teamwork 
• running a shop 
• till operation
• cash handling and banking 
• supporting and supervising volunteers 
• coaching and mentoring 
• communication 
• stock preparation and management 
• health and safety 
• valuable experience for your CV 
• experience of a large, national disability charity 

What we can offer you 

• introduction to Scope 
• demonstration of your tasks 
• training courses, in person and online 
• personal development opportunities 
• opportunity to train up to Level 2 once you’ve completed Level 1 
• support and regular catch ups with a dedicated manager 
• agreed travel expenses 
• adjustments to make the role accessible for you 
• work experience for your CV 
• a work reference 
• 20% discount in your Scope charity shop 

Safeguarding 

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Scope is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children and adults at risk, whether receiving services or being staff or volunteers. It expects all trustees, staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Please note, if you would like to progress to Level 2 training after you have completed Level 1, a DBS check will be required which Scope will provide.

Oxfam Volunteers – Wetherby – West Yorkshire

Oxfam GB

Job details

Job type

• Volunteer

Shift and schedule

• 4 - 8-hour shift – we are very flexible
• Location: 1 Westgate House, Wetherby LS22 6LL

Full job description

Oxfam's Wetherby Shop is looking for Shop Volunteers to help Oxfam’s fight to support the world’s most vulnerable communities.

We’re looking for volunteers who can give 4-8 hours (or more!) of their time in the shop each week, and we’re excited to welcome brand new volunteers to our stores!

Right now, we're looking for people to help in the shop in our stock room and with our ecommerce/online department!

Location:

Become a volunteer!

We like to give volunteers an opportunity to try a range of areas before they find something that suits them. You might become a Retail Volunteer, Till Volunteer, Stock Volunteer. Or you might find yourself in a more specialist role such as an Ecommerce Volunteer, a Shift Lead Volunteer, or even a Stock Specialist Volunteer.

Whatever your skills or interests, there’s something for everyone…

Why be a volunteer?

Your time will make a huge difference. We estimate one four-hour shift will, on average, provide enough income to enable Oxfam to provide life-saving handwashing facilities for 81 people.

Volunteering also has a positive impact on wellbeing, with an incredible 7 in 10 volunteers saying that their charitable actions were beneficial for their mental health.

Benefits of becoming a Volunteer:

· Gain genuine experience working in a retail environment.

· Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, and develop your CV.

· Great way to meet new people & be part of a community. Volunteering can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family.

· Be part of a fantastic team and make a positive change to the world.

· Opportunity to utilise and develop your transferable skills.

Volunteering with Oxfam will give you the skills, confidence and experience you need to build your CV and boost your employability. Problem solving, communication, working with others and familiarity with the workplace are universally valued by employers.

No experience is necessary as full training, and an induction will be given. You don't need to be computer literate to join our team; there are volunteer opportunities for all. All we ask is that you’re happy to work as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

We can be flexible around parenting, caring, health, employment, education, and any other commitments you have.

Tempted? Apply now!

Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

· We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

· *NB: due to the current capacity of some shops, it may be that you will be placed on a waiting list and/or, if you are under 18, until a shop has enough staff and/or volunteers DBS cleared. The Shop Manager will discuss this with you.

Job Type: Volunteer

Work Location: In person

Volunteer Coordinator (Volunteer Role)

Join Unlock YOUR Potential and Help Transform Lives Across London

Role: Volunteer Coordinator (Volunteer Position)
Location: Hybrid (London)
Time Commitment: Approximately 4–8 hours per week
Reporting To: Founder and Executive Director
Organisation: Unlock YOUR Potential

About Unlock YOUR Potential

Unlock YOUR Potential is a new London-based charity dedicated to empowering adults from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds through career coaching, employability skills, personal development, wellbeing support, life coaching, mentoring, and access to opportunities.

We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances. Through the power of volunteering, mentoring, and community support, we aim to help individuals build confidence, develop skills, and create brighter futures.

As we grow, we are looking for a passionate and organised Volunteer Coordinator to help recruit, engage, and support the volunteers who will be at the heart of our mission.

The Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in building and shaping our volunteer programme from the ground up.

As Volunteer Coordinator, you will help attract talented volunteers, support them throughout their journey, and create a positive volunteering experience that enables people to make a meaningful difference in their communities.

You will work closely with the Founder, Trustees, and other volunteers to help ensure Unlock YOUR Potential has the people and resources needed to deliver life-changing programmes and services.

Key Responsibilities

1. Volunteer Recruitment

• Develop and manage volunteer recruitment campaigns.
• Create and publish volunteer opportunities across relevant platforms.
• Respond to volunteer enquiries and applications.
• Support volunteer interviews and onboarding processes.

2. Volunteer Engagement and Support

• Act as the main point of contact for volunteers.
• Help create a welcoming and inclusive volunteer culture.
• Provide ongoing support, guidance, and encouragement.
• Assist with volunteer inductions and orientation sessions.

3. Volunteer Administration

• Maintain volunteer records and databases.
• Track volunteer participation and engagement.
• Support the development of volunteer policies and procedures.
• Help ensure compliance with safeguarding and organisational requirements.

4. Volunteer Retention and Recognition

• Develop initiatives to recognise and celebrate volunteer contributions.
• Gather volunteer feedback and suggestions.
• Help improve volunteer satisfaction and retention.
• Promote opportunities for volunteer development and progression.

5. Collaboration

• Work closely with programme leads and trustees to identify volunteer needs.
• Support the coordination of volunteer activities and projects.
• Contribute ideas to help strengthen the charity’s impact and volunteer programme.

Skills and Experience

We welcome applications from individuals with a variety of backgrounds and experiences.

You may have experience in:

• Volunteer management
• Human resources
• Recruitment
• People management
• Community engagement
• Customer service
• Administration
• Charity or non-profit organisations

We are particularly looking for someone who:

• Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Is organised and reliable.
• Enjoys working with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Is confident using email, online platforms, and basic digital tools.
• Can work independently and collaboratively.
• Is passionate about helping people achieve their potential.

What You’ll Gain

By volunteering with Unlock YOUR Potential, you will have the opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.
• Help shape a growing charity from an early stage.
• Develop leadership and volunteer management experience.
• Build skills in recruitment, engagement, and coordination.
• Expand your professional network.
• Gain valuable experience within the charity sector.
• Receive recognition for your contribution.
• Be part of a passionate and supportive team committed to creating positive social change.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

Unlock YOUR Potential is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse organisation. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and communities, particularly those with lived experience of the challenges faced by the people we support.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about empowering others and would like to help build a volunteer programme that changes lives, we would love to hear from you.

Join us in unlocking potential, creating opportunities, and transforming futures across London.

Volunteer with Unlock YOUR Potential today and help make a lasting impact.

Oxfam Carlisle - Weekend Volunteers

Oxfam GB

Job details

Job type

• Volunteer

Shift and schedule

• 4 - 8-hour shift – we are very flexible
• Location: 17 Bank Street, Carlisle, CA3 8HG

Full job description

Oxfam's Carlisle Shop is looking for Shop Volunteers to help Oxfam’s fight to support the world’s most vulnerable communities.

We’re looking for volunteers who can give 4-8 hours (or more!) of their time in the shop each week, and we’re excited to welcome brand new volunteers to our stores!

Right now, we're looking for people to help in the shop in our stock room and with our ecommerce/online department!

Location:

Become a volunteer!

We like to give volunteers an opportunity to try a range of areas before they find something that suits them. You might become a Retail Volunteer, Till Volunteer, Stock Volunteer. Or you might find yourself in a more specialist role such as an Ecommerce Volunteer, a Shift Lead Volunteer, or even a Stock Specialist Volunteer.

Whatever your skills or interests, there’s something for everyone…

Why be a volunteer?

Your time will make a huge difference. We estimate one four-hour shift will, on average, provide enough income to enable Oxfam to provide life-saving handwashing facilities for 81 people.

Volunteering also has a positive impact on wellbeing, with an incredible 7 in 10 volunteers saying that their charitable actions were beneficial for their mental health.

Benefits of becoming a Volunteer:

· Gain genuine experience working in a retail environment.

· Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, and develop your CV.

· Great way to meet new people & be part of a community. Volunteering can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family.

· Be part of a fantastic team and make a positive change to the world.

· Opportunity to utilise and develop your transferable skills.

Volunteering with Oxfam will give you the skills, confidence and experience you need to build your CV and boost your employability. Problem solving, communication, working with others and familiarity with the workplace are universally valued by employers.

No experience is necessary as full training, and an induction will be given. You don't need to be computer literate to join our team; there are volunteer opportunities for all. All we ask is that you’re happy to work as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

We can be flexible around parenting, caring, health, employment, education, and any other commitments you have.

Tempted? Apply now!

Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

· We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

· *NB: due to the current capacity of some shops, it may be that you will be placed on a waiting list and/or, if you are under 18, until a shop has enough staff and/or volunteers DBS cleared. The Shop Manager will discuss this with you.

Job Type: Volunteer

Work Location: In person at Carlisle Oxfam Shop

Whether you’re a jobseeker interested in a career in construction or woodwork, a student or recent college graduate seeking experience, or just someone with spare time on your hands, wanting to do something positive and meet new people, volunteering with the Touch Wood project at EMERGE 3Rs may be just the ticket!

Touch Wood is a wood recycling and upcycling initiative, which collects surplus and waste wood and timber and gives it a new lease of life, preventing it from being burned, chipped, or dumped in landfill.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

* Preparing wood for resale

* Assisting with the construction of wooden products, from small household items to pieces of furniture

Our Touch Wood volunteers are able to gain skills in practical woodworking, as we offer hands-on experience of working with reclaimed timber; from making basic lumber products ready for resale, through to assisting with the creation of bespoke items, such as kitchen equipment and home and garden furniture.

Full training in woodworking and health and safety is provided, along with Personal Protection Equipment.
Capped reimbursement of expenses is awarded for lunches and travel, where applicable.

The UK generates around 5 million tonnes of wood waste every year, but less than 1% is reused. Touch Wood rescues waste timber that would otherwise be landfilled or turned into woodchip; creating jobs and training opportunities for disadvantaged local people at the same time. We collect from construction sites, industrial estates and other commercial sources, reclaiming everything from pallets to indoor cycle tracks – you name it, we take it! Anything we can’t reuse is locally recycled, so nothing goes to waste. This reduces the carbon emissions associated with disposing of waste wood, offers cost savings for DIY enthusiasts, and provides training and job potential to volunteers in the workshop. Some of the timber we work with comes from high profile sources, including the entire track of the Manchester Velodrome cycling centre and wood removed in the recent refurbishment of Manchester’s historic Town Hall!

Our skilled team of staff and volunteers often use reclaimed timber to create beautiful and practical products, such as home and garden furniture. We regularly create bespoke pieces to order; some of it for famous clients like Olympic cycling champions Jason and Laura Kenny, for whom we made a table from the Manchester Velodrome track.

Please be advised that our volunteers require a fair level of physical fitness and manual dexterity as the role is entirely practical.

Our Touch Wood workshop and wood store is open Mon-Fri, 8.30am - 4pm.
We occupy a unit at Maynard House, inside New Smithfield Market, in Openshaw, North Manchester, which is accessed from the main entrance on Whitworth Street East (off Ashton Old Road). The site is served well by buses, and we have free parking onsite, as well as secure storage racks for pushbikes.

​IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us. There are no exceptions to this rule. This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles. We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.

Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)

Volunteer Receptionist / Administration Support

Organisation: Rotherham & Barnsley Mind
Location: Osborne House, Rotherham
(May be required to work at other RB Mind locations occasionally)
Responsible to: Director of Services
Role Type: Voluntary (unpaid)
Time Commitment: Flexible
Expenses: Reasonable out‑of‑pocket expenses reimbursed in line with policy

About the Role

Rotherham & Barnsley Mind are seeking a Receptionist / Administration Support Volunteer to provide a friendly, professional front‑of‑house service at our Rotherham office.

This is a key volunteer role within the organisation. As the first point of contact, you will help create a welcoming, calm and supportive environment for people accessing our mental health services, as well as staff, volunteers and visitors.

The role also includes a range of general administrative tasks to support the smooth running of the organisation. We are looking for a reliable and flexible volunteer who enjoys working with people and supporting a busy office environment.

Key Responsibilities

Reception & Front‑of‑House

• Provide a warm, respectful and professional welcome to all visitors
• Answer incoming telephone calls, take messages and direct enquiries appropriately
• Ensure visitors sign in and out of the building in line with Health & Safety procedures
• Maintain a tidy, welcoming reception and waiting area
• Make refreshments for visitors where required
• Act as a first point of contact for suppliers and contractors
• Support cashless payments for services where applicable (with training and supervision)

Administration & Office Support

• Support with general administrative tasks such as photocopying, scanning and printing
• Assist with managing the room booking diary
• Deal with incoming and outgoing post
• Support stock checks and ordering of office supplies (e.g. stationery and kitchen items)
• Input basic information and update records on internal systems, following GDPR guidance
• Provide ad‑hoc administrative support to staff and services as required

Health, Safety & Safeguarding

• Support the Office Manager in maintaining a safe and secure building
• Assist with opening and closing the building, where appropriate and agreed
• Undertake health and safety responsibilities appropriate to a volunteer role
  (e.g. fire marshal or first aid support – training provided if required)
• Recognise and promptly raise any safeguarding concerns with a named staff member

Boundaries of the Role

This is a non‑therapeutic volunteer role. You will not be expected to provide counselling or mental health advice. Clear boundaries will be in place, and support will always be available from staff.

Skills, Experience & Attributes

Essential

• Friendly, approachable and non‑judgemental manner
• Good communication skills, both face‑to‑face and on the telephone
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
• Reliability and commitment to agreed volunteer hours
• Willingness to follow policies, procedures and guidance

Desirable

• Previous reception, administration or customer service experience
• Basic IT skills (email, Word, simple record systems)
• Interest in mental health, wellbeing and community services
• Experience working with the public or in a support environment

What We Offer

• Full volunteer induction and role‑specific training
• Ongoing support and supervision
• Training in safeguarding, confidentiality, equality and boundaries
• Opportunity to develop transferable administration and communication skills
• Experience within a leading mental health charity
• A chance to make a meaningful difference to your local community

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Rotherham & Barnsley Mind is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and with lived experience of mental health, and we make reasonable adjustments wherever possible.

Safeguarding & Checks

An Enhanced DBS check may be required for this role depending on duties and access to vulnerable adults. This will be arranged and paid for by the organisation.

FareShare Greater Manchester is looking for volunteer Driver's Assistants to join our busy friendly delivery team with redistributing tonnes of surplus food a month to charities and community initiatives across Greater Manchester.

FareShare is a national charity fighting food poverty and global warming by tackling food surplus. We source overstocked food from retailers and manufacturers and engage many volunteers to help re-distribute it to over 220 frontline charities and community groups across Greater Manchester. These groups, in turn, provide meals to vulnerable people experiencing food poverty, individuals who are homeless, families, and people who are unemployed or socially isolated. This food would otherwise have gone to waste, so we are simultaneously supporting people in need and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Key responsibilities

Working closely with the driver of a temperature-controlled 3.5 tonne Mercedes Sprinter van to deliver surplus food orders to the premises of the benevolent projects we support. 

Loading and unloading the vehicle and carrying out a range of tasks, from basic vehicle checks to delivery administration.

The required skills and attributes are:

• Reliability and ability to commit to pre-agreed volunteer shifts (ESSENTIAL)

• Physical fitness, to take on moving and handling of food orders

• Ability to follow procedures and instructions

• Good verbal communication skills

• Interest in the work of FareShare Greater Manchester and our values

• High respect for Health & Safety procedures and standards

In return you will gain:

Career and CV advice and support

A reference for future employers

Reimbursement of travel and lunch expenses 

The opportunity to give practical help to fight food poverty and reduce food waste (and associated CO2 emissions)

The opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends

Our operating hours are Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.

Driver and Driver’s Assistant shifts begin at 8:30am. 

We welcome volunteers who can commit to one day a week. 

The days and rota hours of volunteering are agreed around your availability.

​IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us. There are no exceptions to this rule. This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles. We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.

Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)

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: 

• 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.

Do you have a keen eye for details and a passion for supporting a great cause?

We’re looking for Volunteer Mystery Shoppers to help us ensure our shops are the best they can be. Your feedback helps us provide Tender Loving Care to our community and ensures every customer visit helps fund our vital work supporting families affected by Leukodystrophy.

What you’ll do 

• Visit as a regular customer at one of our local shops
• Browse the rails and interact with our friendly team.
• Fill out a quick survey about your experience (cleanliness, service and vibe).
• Make a donation of pre loved items

Who we’re looking for:

Someone observant, honest, and reliable who loves a hidden gem.