Diversity volunteer roles

The Role

We are seeking Peer Volunteers to support in designing and facilitating peer-led psychoeducation groups addressing root causes of gambling and a safe environment for loved ones to build meaningful peer connections. You will be joining a small team and be expected to work in partnership with your peer support workers and service lead. We are seeking autonomous, creative individuals with experiences of working or lived experience of behaviours around addiction.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has lived experience of addiction and/or mental health challenges
• Are a non-judgmental and friendly individual 
• To be able to provide a welcoming, authentic, and positive experience for all, being inclusive and embracing diversity 
• To feel comfortable engaging with people with addiction, mental health challenges / difficult life experiences, by validating strengths and experiences and using empowering language to overcome negative self-talk 
• Are empathic and understands the stigma / social bias's surrounding addiction and mental health 
• Are willing to tap into their lived experiences and use their stories to inspire hope in others when appropriate 
• Are comfortable with co-producing and co-facilitating peer led workshops 
• To assist the team with admin and planning
• Are able to take on any ad hoc admin/support responsibilities
• Knowledge around safeguarding policies and procedures 
• Knowledge and experience of risk management

Time commitment:

• Flexible hours between Monday-Friday. We are looking for someone to commit to a minimum of at least 1 or 2 activities a week.
• We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing support to support them in the role.

What's in it for the volunteer? 

Volunteering at West London Mind is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a nationally recognised charity. We provide initial and ongoing training, as well as plenty of opportunities for progression within the organisation. You will also be a part of a supportive team with great awareness of wellbeing and the mental health sector. We would be keen to work with you to develop your own interests and use your existing skills to support the project. 

Please tell us why you would like to volunteer at ResetPoint at West London Mind? (minimum 50 words) 

Please share any relevant skills or experience you have for the role. This may include education, work or voluntary experience (minimum 100 words)

We are a Manchester based dementia support charity, looking to recruit a team of Volunteer Minibus Escorts, to accompany our drivers onboard our two Together Dementia Support minibuses - helping to pick-up and drop-off our service users before and after groups.

Drivers and Escorts are a key part of our service user experience – you’ll be their first and last contact with Together Dementia Support each week, so we rely on our escorst  provide a to be positive, supportive and enjoyable experience.

Volunteer Escorts will board the minibus with our drivers in the morning (at the Kath Locke Centre, M15 5DD) ready to pick service users up and transport them to the group, which will run for 2 hours. Depending on your availability, once the group has ended there is an option to finish your volunteering shift, or support members on the minibus for the return journey – finishing back at the Kath Locke Centre. We may also ask you to begin your volunteering shift at the group, and then support on the return journey.

You’ll be responsible for our service users boarding and disembark the minibus safely, and engaging with them throughout the journey. You also be expected to stay in good contact with our service users and carers around pick-up times, delays or issues. You’ll also stay in good contact with our office and the group Dementia Support Co-ordinator around any issues or problems.

All volunteers are also expected to adhere to the following Together Dementia Support policies – Health & Safety, Safeguarding, Equality Diversity & Inclusion, and any other policies deemed relevant.

Minibus Escorts will recieve comprehensive Induction Training, and Moving & Handling Training. You will also have to understake a DBS Check, which we cover the cost for.

Perks & benefits:

• Travel expeneses covered
• On site, free parking available
• All training provided - no experience necessary
• Great experience of working within a health and social care environment
• Opportunity to learn more about dementia, and how it affects those living with the condition
• Opportunity to join a diverse volunteering community, and support local people living with dementia to live better

Benefits:

• Free or subsidised travel
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Join The Baked Bean Charity Board of Trustees!

Are you passionate about inclusion, equality, and creating lasting social impact?

The Baked Bean Charity is looking for dedicated and experienced individuals to join our Board of Trustees as we embark on a period of strategy development.

This is a unique opportunity to use your skills and expertise to help shape the future of a vibrant charity that supports more than 170 people with learning disabilities every week.

Why Join Us?

As a Trustee, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Make a real and visible difference to people's lives
• Champion the voices of people with learning disabilities
• Help guide the strategic direction of a growing charity
• Use your professional expertise to strengthen and develop our organisation
• Work alongside a passionate and committed Board and leadership team.

We're Looking For People Who:

• Believe strongly in inclusion, equality, and social justice
• Are committed to improving opportunities for people with learning disabilities
• Have strong relationship-building and networking skills
• Bring a proactive approach and a willingness to contribute
• Can dedicate approximately 2–3 hours per month to trustee responsibilities.

Skills and Experience We Need

We are particularly interested in hearing from people with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising
• Charity or business development
• Marketing and communications
• Legal services
• Human Resources

Previous experience as a charity trustee is welcomed but not essential.

Available Trustee Roles

We have two Trustee posts available

What We're Looking For

Successful candidates will:

• Understand the responsibilities and legal duties of charity trustees
• Be passionate about equality, inclusion, and empowering people with learning disabilities
• Be committed to making decisions that put the needs of our service users first
• Support our mission of delivering outstanding, person-centred services

Time Commitment

• Board meetings take place approximately every 6 weeks
• Meetings last approximately 2 hours
• Most meetings alternate between online and in person in Wimbledon
• The role is voluntary and unpaid, although reasonable expenses can be reimbursed

About The Baked Bean Charity

The Baked Bean Charity is a vibrant and innovative organisation dedicated to promoting social inclusion for people with learning disabilities.

Our wide-ranging activities include:

• Dance, Drama, Choir and DJing
• Zumba, Boxing and other sports activities
• Social clubs, holidays and community events
• Theatre in Education programmes that help businesses, schools and community organisations improve understanding, accessibility and inclusion
• Fledgling Film and TV agency

Everything we do is centred around helping people achieve their goals, build confidence, develop friendships and live happy, fulfilled lives.

Based in Wandsworth, we support people from across South London and surrounding boroughs, creating opportunities, breaking down barriers and challenging preconceptions every day.

We Welcome Diverse Voices

The Baked Bean Charity is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, especially those whose perspectives are currently underrepresented in charity governance.

Join us and help create a more inclusive future for people with learning disabilities!

As a First Response Volunteer, you will help find those rough sleeping quicker, and enable Outreach workers to spend more time supporting those found to move away from the streets and get connected to other local services. First Responders play a crucial role to ensure people sleeping rough receive vital support. This is not a client-facing role and therefore is well suited to somebody looking for their first role in the homelessness sector. However, we do also offer development opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge about rough sleeping for those interested.

On shift, you and a partner volunteer will be given a list of people who have been seen sleeping rough. Your role is to identify those who are sleeping rough, and pass information about referrals to the Outreach team to follow up on – they will help the person find accommodation and link them into non-accommodation-based support for example around physical or mental health. 

Please see all locations and the time commitments we are currently recruiting for in this role:

• Bournemouth – Tuesdays and Saturdays 6am-9am (1 shift per month).
• Reading-Mondays and Fridays, 6am-8:30am (1 shift per month).
• Oxford- Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6am-10am (1 shift per month)

Family Friends carefully recruit, train, and match volunteers with families in Central-West London. Our volunteer befrienders offer practical and emotional support based on each family's unique needs and potential. We offer two volunteer opportunities - Big Buddies and Parent Buddies.

Volunteers will aim to help parents to discover their strengths, build confidence, and resolve difficulties. Volunteers meet with their match weekly for a period of up to 12 months.

Activities might include:

• Supporting a parent to take their children on days out.
• Helping to strengthen family relationships.
• Providing a listening ear.
• Helping parents to build confidence in themselves.

Essential Criteria:

• You must be able to commit to the Parent Buddy programme for a minimum of 6 months.
• 18+
• Must have lived in the UK for the last 2 years

What we provide in return:

• Full induction training and ongoing training
• DBS check
• Weekly supervision and support
• The chance to learn new skills
• References provided after 6 months' commitment
• Reimbursement of travel and session expenses

We are an equal opportunities charity and value the principles of diversity and inclusion, which is central in providing successful support to our families. We welcome and encourage applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, including people from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTQI+ and individuals from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds.

In the first instance, please register your interest in becoming a volunteer with us - you can do that by contacting us here to receive the application form.

Once we've reviewed your application, a member of our team will be in touch with next steps.

Join Us as a Trustee – Make a Difference for LGBT+ Mental Health

About Us

elop is an award-winning LGBTQ+ mental health and wellbeing charity with 30 years of experience delivering high-quality, LGBTQ+ affirmative support. We provide counselling, wellbeing programmes, advocacy, and specialist training for professionals, schools, and organisations across London and the Essex borders. Our mission is to empower LGBTQ+ communities, improve mental health, amplify our voices, and promote equality through education, awareness, and support.

The Role

We are seeking new trustees to help guide our work and shape our future. As a trustee, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring our charity remains sustainable, inclusive, and impactful for the communities we serve.

You’ll Be Involved In:

· Setting strategy, policies, and goals

· Overseeing finances and safeguarding assets

· Ensuring strong governance and regulatory compliance

· Supporting CEO and senior leadership team in delivering mission

· Working collaboratively with the CEO to ensure strong governance and regulatory compliance

· Promoting elop and representing us at events

· Bringing your skills, knowledge, and lived experience to board discussions

Commitment

Time: 8–12 hours per month

Term: Minimum of 2 years

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from people who are LGBTQ+ and share our passion for mental health and wellbeing. We are particularly keen to hear from those with skills, experience, or knowledge in:

· Event and individual fundraising

· Human resources

· Building Management

· Knowledge of managing building works

· Corporate Fundraising

We strongly encourage applications from people of colour, trans and non-binary people, and others from underrepresented backgrounds. We believe diverse boards make the strongest organisations.

This role presents an opportunity to liaise with businesses and organisations in your local community to find and arrange suitable reading venues for your group. Reading venues are typically in local libraries, churches and other businesses and organisations that can provide places where there is at least one other person in the building, whilst also providing an element of confidentiality, they are never classroom settings.

What you will be doing

● Ensuring there are sufficient suitable venues for reading pairs, in line with the Venue and Lone Worker Policy.

● Managing the relationship between the venues and the group and source new venues as the group grows.

● Finding organisations and businesses willing to offer a room or suitable space on their premises for your reading pairs to use at certain times of the week when it is not in use.

● Ensuring that the premises are suitable for Read Easy by using the Venue Checklist.

● Reporting on the venues arranged to the Management Team to gain their approval.

● Confirming the arrangements in writing with the venue provider.© Read Easy UK 2 June 2023

● Keeping an up-to-date record of venues and regularly review venue arrangements.

● Supporting the Team in finding and booking other venues for Read Easy events.

● Attending Management Team meetings, typically every six to eight weeks.

The skills you will need

● Experience of networking or the confidence to contact local organisations to explain how each venue can support local people to improve their reading.

● Ability to develop strong working relationships with local venue providers.

● Good communication and people skills, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.

● Reasonable confidence in using IT.

● The ability to use initiative and work independently.

● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures.

● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team.

● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included.

● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of one hour a week to commit to the role.

What is in it for you?

● Develop networking skills

● Meet and work collaboratively with new people

● Be active and engaged, adding value to your local community.

Interested?

If you think you can offer the time, skills and experience that we are looking for and would be interested in taking up this role, please contact the person who sent you this role description.

Please note: All Read Easy volunteer roles are subject to Safer Recruitment procedures which include verification of identity and two references, and eligibility for Management Team roles in line with Charity Commission regulations for trustees.

Please see the ‘Introduction to Read Easy for potential Management Team volunteers’ to find out more about the structure and responsibilities of the Management Team.

"Before I never used to open a book because I thought I couldn’t read but now I can. I used to think it was boring reading before but now I don't." - from a learner working with an ALT Reading Coach

The Adult Literacy Trust (ALT) wants to help adult learners break the cycle of poor literacy by offering them personalised reading support.

We offer one-to-one literacy support as a complement to formal teaching in education settings. We are dedicated to ensuring that adults who wish to improve their literacy skills - and to increase their life chances - receive the help they need to become confident readers.

Would you like to support an adult learner to become a confident reader? We are looking for volunteers to become trained Reading Coaches and work with adult learners on a one-to-one (or sometimes one-to-two) basis.

What it looks like in practice:

• Meeting a learner weekly, on-site at their college campus, typically before or after their formal classes for about an hour a week
• Building a constructive relationship with a learner
• Helping to check the learner’s understanding, build their confidence in reading, and provide support where needed
• Helping the learner practice skills they’re learning in the classroom and encourage confidence and resilience so that they persist with their studies

Where and when:

We have opportunities across London and we'll work around your schedule.

ALT is partnered with a range of colleges across London as we assign you to a location that works for you. All our locations are listed on our website. We are particularly looking for volunteers who can support learners on site at Westminster Adult Education Services based atLisson Grove NW8 8LW, New City College Tower Hamlets E14 0BX and Morley College Stockwell SW4 6RA. 

The timings are flexible - ALT match you to a learner based on your respective availability. Typically, most ALT sessions take place sometime between 10am-5pm, Monday to Friday.

Personal Specification:

No prior teaching experience or qualification is needed. We provide full training so that volunteers are confident to start their sessions. However, volunteers must:

• Be at least 18
• Be able to speak and write English well enough to communicate clearly.
• Have a minimum education of a secondary school level or equivalent (i.e. hold a GCSE or equivalent, in any subject).
• Be willing to undergo a DBS check (provided by ALT)
• Have the right to volunteer in the UK 

About us:

The Adult Literacy Trust provides adults with one-to-one support to improve their reading skills and confidence, as a complement to formal education provision, ensuring that individuals who wish to improve their literacy skills receive the help they need to become successful readers, and to increase their life chances.

Delivered through a network of specially trained volunteer Reading Coaches, our charity works closely with learning providers - such as Further Education Colleges and Institutes for Adult Learning - to assist people from some of the most disadvantaged communities who could benefit from enhanced support, strengthening learners’ outcomes from their participation in adult community education.

As a volunteer Digital Champion, you will help people across Manchester preserve and share the stories that matter to them. Supporting This Is Us: Tracing Manchester’s Histories, you’ll be working with local communities, cultural organisations, researchers, and sector practitioners as part of a community-led storytelling project dedicated to preserving and celebrating Manchester’s diverse histories.

Your role will support participants to contribute their stories, capture memories, and record oral histories for sharing on our growing digital platform. Your contributions will play an important part in the platform’s long-term sustainability and help create an accessible and inclusive historical record that recognises the people, places, and communities that have shaped this city.

Whether you’re passionate about local histories, heritage, or content creation, this is an opportunity to develop new skills while gaining valuable experience in digital storytelling, oral histories, recording techniques, and community engagement.

No experience is needed to apply for this role. Before you begin volunteering, you’ll take part in a free training and induction programme delivered by Manchester Histories staff and experienced practitioners from the heritage, cultural, and community sectors.

Through a combination of practical workshops and hands-on activities, you’ll learn how to:

• Use recording equipment and digital storytelling tools
• Record and preserve oral histories
• Conduct engaging interviews and produce engaging stories
• Work ethically with lived experiences, including consent and safeguarding
• Build confidence supporting communities to share their stories
• Develop inclusive approaches to storytelling and community engagement

By the end of the programme, you’ll have the confidence and practical skills needed to become a Digital Champion – supporting people to record, preserve, and share the stories that matter to their communities.

Digital Champion Training

Training will take place every Saturday in the Manchester Histories Hub, Manchester Central Library from 12 September to 7 November 2026.

To help you get the most out of the experience, we encourage volunteers to attend all training sessions where possible. Please consider your availability for these sessions before applying.

Person Specification

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. You don’t need any formal qualifications or previous experience to become a Digital Champion. We’re looking for people who are enthusiastic, curious, and committed to helping preserve Manchester’s stories.

We want to hear from you if you:

• Have an interest in Manchester’s histories, heritage, and communities.
• Believe in the importance of inclusion, diversity, and representation.
• Are passionate about helping communities share and celebrate their lived experiences.
• Enjoy meeting people and listening to their stories.
• Are keen to learn new skills, particularly in digital storytelling and oral histories.
• Are comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
• Are reliable and able to commit to the training programme and volunteer activities.

Experience in storytelling, community engagement, heritage, digital media, or volunteering is welcome, but not essential. Full training and ongoing support will be provided throughout the project.

At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe everyone deserves understanding, connection, and the chance to live a fulfilling life. Our volunteers play a vital role in supporting people affected by mental illness and helping create communities where no one feels alone. 

About the role  

As a Peer Support Volunteer you will have lived experience of mental health and support service users on a wide range of non-complex issues that can be easily and quickly resolved. You will bring added skills and experience to our service and add real value to our team. You will provide additional support at our Peer Support group sessions. This could be, for example, by empathising with potential clients about the difficulties that having a mental health problem can create, helping to set up the room, explaining the services that are on offer and how these can be accessed, putting people who are anxious at ease by welcoming them. Peer volunteers can also co-facilitate groups based on personal skills and experience. Ideally, you will be able to commit a minimum of 3 hours per week. 

Full training and regular supervision will be provided, so you’ll feel confident and supported in your role. 

This role requires an Enhanced DBS check, which will be arranged and paid for by Rethink Mental Illness. 

As a Peer Support Volunteer you will: 

• Support the Peer Support Workers to run the group sessions e.g. by helping to set up the room and by welcoming people 

• Help to create a safe space where people can share as much or as little as they wish to about their experiences 

• Foster the principles of co-production 

• Signpost people to services in the local area that meets their needs 

• Describe and explain services that are on offer from Rethink Mental Illness and other local community assets that can provide help and advice relevant to people's needs 

• Support the development of drop-in sessions at various locations across the locality 

About the service  

The Empowering Minds Gloucestershire Service currently run group sessions for service users across Gloucestershire. 

Our team is dedicated to delivering a high-quality service that focuses on supporting individuals to achieve their recovery goals. The aim is to improve the lives and support independence for those living with a mental illness. The team will engage with other local providers to ensure a clear and seamless pathway for those that require support from multiple providers. 

What will make you a great fit for this role?  

• Lived experience of mental health 

• Ability to support service users on a wide range of non-complex issues that can be easily and quickly resolved 

• Ability to empathise with others 

• Good communication skills 

• Reliable and punctual 

It's not essential, but you may also bring: 

• Knowledge of the local area 

• Knowledge of services that can be accessed 

How to apply 

To apply, please click the “apply now” button and complete a short interest form. You will have the opportunity to upload a CV and/or cover letter however, this is not mandatory. 

A member of the team will review your application and be in touch to update you on the next steps. If your application is successful, you will be invited to take part in an informal volunteer discussion. 

If you have any questions about the role or would like to find out more before applying, please contact the volunteer manager: 

Who are we?  

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”    

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.    

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion    

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.  

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation  

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.  

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a trailblazing organisation dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. Rooted in a People First philosophy, we empower individuals and teams to drive systemic change through equitable learning and growth opportunities. Join us to shape a culture where lifelong learning and inclusive leadership thrive.

Role Overview

As the LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT Manager, you will lead the design and delivery of impactful learning programs that align with QuilomboUK’s mission and strategic goals. You’ll develop leadership curricula, create engaging instructional materials, oversee induction training, and continuously refine L&D initiatives based on feedback and data. This role is ideal for a creative, data-driven professional passionate about fostering inclusive leadership and equipping teams with the skills to advance social justice.

Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership Development & Training

• Design and implement leadership training curricula, workshops, and coaching programs that cultivate inclusive, equitable, and socially conscious leaders.
• Partner with senior leaders to identify skill gaps and align L&D strategies with organisational objectives.
• Facilitate dynamic workshops on topics like anti-bias leadership, conflict resolution, and change management.

Instructional Design & Content Development

• Create engaging, accessible learning materials, including e-learning modules, facilitator guides, videos, and assessments, using tools like Articulate 360 or Adobe Captivate.
• Embed D&I principles and social justice themes into all content, ensuring cultural relevance and representation.
• Develop microlearning resources and toolkits to support continuous, self-directed learning in a remote environment.

AI-Enhanced Instructional Design

• Using various platforms, create dynamic, AI-generated content (e.g., simulations, scenario-based learning), and adaptive e-learning modules.
• Build AI-driven assessments and feedback loops to measure knowledge retention and behavioural change.

Onboarding & Integration

• Lead the design and delivery of induction programs that immerse new hires in QuilomboUK’s mission, values, and D&I commitments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure onboarding content reflects role-specific and cultural integration needs.
• Monitor new hire feedback to refine onboarding experiences and reduce time-to-productivity.

Training Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Measure training effectiveness using KPIs such as engagement rates, knowledge retention, and behavioural change.
• Analyse feedback surveys, LMS data, and performance metrics to identify gaps and iterate on content.
• Stay ahead of L&D trends (e.g., gamification, AI-driven learning) to innovate QuilomboUK’s programs.

D&I Integration

• Ensure all learning initiatives prioritise equity, cultural competence, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Partner with ERG (Employee Resource Group) leaders to co-create programs that address systemic inequities.
• Advocate for accessible learning design, including accommodations for neurodiverse and disabled employees.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years in L&D, instructional design, or leadership development, ideally within mission-driven or D&I-focused organisations, with hands-on experience using AI tools.
• Skills:
• Expertise in e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate, Canva) and LMS platforms,.
• Strong facilitation and storytelling skills for remote and hybrid audiences.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI) to measure program impact.
• Proficiency in prompt engineering for generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) to create scalable content.
•  
• Knowledge:
• Deep understanding of adult learning theories, inclusive pedagogy, and social justice frameworks.
• Familiarity with UK compliance standards related to workplace training.
• Understanding of ethical AI frameworks, algorithmic bias mitigation, and GDPR-compliant AI use in HR.
• Familiarity with AI and how it can amplify (or hinder) equitable learning outcomes.
•  
• Alignment: Passionate about QuilomboUK’s mission and the role of L&D in driving equitable change.

Personal Attributes

• A visionary thinker who balances creativity with analytical rigor.
• Collaborative bridge-builder who engages stakeholders at all levels.
• Adaptive and empathetic, with a knack for simplifying complex concepts.
• Committed to lifelong learning and amplifying underrepresented voices.

Why Join QuilomboUK?

• Purpose: Design programs that directly contribute to equitable workplaces and social justice.
• Innovation: Experiment with cutting-edge L&D tools and methodologies in a remote-first environment.
• Culture: Join a team that values curiosity, courage, and collective growth.
• Flexibility: Enjoy remote work autonomy with supportive collaboration.

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.

Empower growth. Ignite change. #LearningForJustice #InclusiveLeadership #PeopleFirst

Monday to Friday (any day welcome) 2 to 4pm

We are looking for a friendly and reliable Resident Engagement Support Volunteer to help create a welcoming and positive environment for residents living in our accommodation in Welwyn Garden City, and Hatfied hostels.

This is a flexible role that will begin with a focus on befriending and social connection. Volunteers will help open the residents’ café, serve teas and coffees, and spend time chatting with residents to help build rapport and reduce social isolation.

As confidence and relationships develop, the role can be shaped around the volunteer’s interests, skills and ideas. We welcome volunteers who may wish to support additional activities such as games, quizzes, crafts, wellbeing activities, cooking sessions, or sharing practical life skills.

No specialist experience is required - just a warm approach, good listening skills and a willingness to engage with people.

Key Responsibilities

· Opening and helping run the residents’ café during the afternoon session.

· Preparing and serving teas, coffees and refreshments.

· Offering a friendly welcome to residents.

· Spending time talking with residents and building positive relationships.

· Encouraging residents to take part in social activities, signposting to staff where additional support is needed.

· Supporting or helping to organise simple activities such as board games, crafts or quizzes.

· Sharing personal skills or hobbies where appropriate (for example cooking, baking or creative activities).

· Co-designing activities based on resident feedback and interest

· Work alongside staff to create a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for residents.

· Uphold One YMCA’s safeguarding, confidentiality, and health & safety policies at all times.

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

· Friendly, approachable, and non-judgemental.

· Good listening and communication skills.

· Flexible, reliable, and willing to help in a variety of ways.

· Creativity and good knowledge on specific activities to be delivered

· Able to work as part of a team while respecting professional boundaries.

· Experience of working or volunteering with vulnerable people who may have experienced challenges such as homelessness and mental health (desirable). Volunteers should be able to respond with empathy to residents' emotions, maintain appropriate boundaries, and recognise when concerns or situations need to be escalated to a member of staff.

· Respectful of diversity and inclusive of people from all backgrounds.

Training / Support

· A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided.

· Requirement to undertake One YMCA online training courses, including safeguarding; Health & Safety Awareness and Manual Handling where appropriate.

· To understand and implement One YMCA’s policies.

· Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings with your line manager

· Access to organisational events throughout the year including a Volunteer’s Celebration and Annual conference

Additional Information

· You will be required to undergo a DBS check

· Two references will be required

Role Description:

This role sits within our Men’s Minds project, based in Feltham, Hounslow. The aim of the service is to improve men’s mental health outcomes by developing a mental health network supported and directed by the voices of its members.

This will be achieved through three service strands: 1) Peer support network, 2) Psychoeducation workshops, addressing common needs of men’s mental health 3) Outreach support to raise awareness of men’s mental health and promote this service.

The role of the Volunteer Group Facilitator will be to independently run a men’s group in line with WL Mind core values. This volunteer role is suitable for people with experience and interest in facilitating groups for men. In liaison with the Co-ordinator you will be responsible for planning and delivering groups. You will help support set up and clear up the weekly groups.

Staff within the service will provide person-centred, practical and emotional support, face to face in a group basis to individuals.

We are looking for someone who

• Someone who identifies as male
• Has lived experience of mental health challenges
• Are a non-judgmental and friendly individual
• To be able to provide a welcoming, authentic, and positive experience for all, being inclusive and embracing diversity
• To feel comfortable engaging with people with mental health challenges / difficult life experiences, by validating strengths and experiences and using empowering language to overcome negative self-talk
• Are empathic and understands the stigma / social bias's surrounding mental health
• Are willing to tap into their lived experiences and use their stories to inspire hope in others when appropriate
• Are comfortable with co-producing and co-facilitating peer led workshops
• To assist the Project Coordinator with admin and planning
• Are able to take on any ad hoc admin/support responsibilities
• Knowledge around safeguarding policies and procedures
• Knowledge and experience of risk management

Time commitment and expenses:

• Flexible hours between Monday-Thurs. We are looking for someone to commit to a minimum of at least 1 or 2 activities a week.
• We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role.
   

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering at Mind is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a nationally recognised charity. We provide initial and ongoing training, as well as plenty of opportunities for progression within the organisation. You will also be a part of a supportive team with great awareness of wellbeing and the mental health sector. We would be keen to work with you to develop your own interests and use your existing skills to support the project.

Please tell us why you would like to volunteer at Men’s Minds at WL Mind? (minimum 50 words)

Please share any relevant skills or experience you have for the role. This may include education, work or voluntary experience (minimum 100 words)

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility 

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

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

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility 

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

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

Independent Visitor Volunteer 

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

As an Independent Visitor Volunteer in England, you might: 

• support the child/young person to experience enriching activities that contribute to their personal and cultural development

• engage in activities such as pursuing hobbies, meeting for meals, or socialising in a community setting

• listen to and support the young person, fostering a sense of safety and trust

• help the young person develop social skills and increase their involvement in their community

• develop a positive and lasting relationship, ensuring the young person feels valued and supported 

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

Safeguarding Commitment Statement 

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

ED&I Statement 

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

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

To find out more click “Apply Now”.