Domestic violence volunteer roles

Join our team of befrienders! You will support us to reach some of the most isolated adults in your community to reduce their feelings of loneliness, build friendships and provide support for mental wellbeing. You will support people to relight a spark to continue a hobby, interest or encourage them to explore and participate in new social activities.

You will support individuals to rebuild their lives beyond crisis.

Loneliness and isolation can affect anyone in life, whatever their age or family situation. Official data from the Office for National Statistics shows that rates of depression doubled during the COVID pandemic, and one of the major causes of depression is isolation.

Hestia has a variety of different services that support people across London and the South East. These services support people that are struggling with their mental health, are victims of Domestic Abuse or Modern Slavery, and more. Join our team of volunteers who play a vital role in what we do!

Face-to-face locations include Islington, Hounslow, Hillingdon, Berkshire, Lambeth, Kingston, Merton, Barbican, Slough, Reading and Croydon

What you will be doing

• Agree a mutual time and frequency to meet in the local community
• To develop and promote a positive relationship with your befriendee
• To encourage your befriendee to engage in social activities and support them in doing so whilst building their confidence
• To support your befriendee in developing their goals and social skills
• Encourage your befriendee to make links with community services, based on their identified goals

The skills you need

• Good listening and communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere which motivates and inspires others
• Willingness to engage in activities in the community
• Able to maintain strict confidentiality and follow professional boundaries

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Honour Thy Woman provides survivor-centred Domestic Abuse Recovery Services for women and families across Gloucestershire.This is an important moment for our charity, and we are seeking someone who can help guide our future with skill, integrity, and commitment.

About Honour Thy Woman Group

Honour Thy Woman Group offers a wide range of support services designed to meet the emotional, practical, and social needs of women recovering from domestic abuse. Our programmes combine professional guidance with peer-led care, flexible delivery methods, and a focus on long-term wellbeing.

What will you be doing?

By sharing your professional skills and financial insight, you will help ensure we continue delivering personalised support, practical advice and ongoing care to the women and children we support.

Our new Treasurer will be a key member of the Board of Trustees, responsible for providing strategic financial oversight and ensuring that Honour Thy Woman Group manages its resources responsibly, transparently, and in line with UK charity law.

Our Treasurer will regularly report to the Board of Trustees on the organisation’s financial position and overall financial health. The Treasurer will also ensure that robust and appropriate financial controls, systems, and procedures are in place and operating effectively.

While the Treasurer holds specific responsibility for financial oversight, all Trustees remain jointly and severally responsible for the governance and administration of the Charity and share collective accountability and liability.

For full details, please request the application pack.

What are we are looking for?

We are looking for someone who shares our values and is ready to contribute their expertise to a collaborative and dedicated Board of Trustees. This is a chance to make a meaningful difference, while also gaining valuable governance experience and supporting the growth of a responsive, survivor-focused charity.

We’re seeking a new Treasurer with the following attributes: 

· Financial literacy and confidence with budgets.

· Ability to interpret financial information and explain it clearly.

· A qualified accountant (or equivalent, qualified by experience), ideally with experience in charity                finance. Training will be provided where experience of charity finance is not already in place.

· Strong attention to detail and organisational skills Integrity, independence, and sound judgement                Commitment to the charity’s mission, values, and safeguarding standards.

As we recruit for our new Treasurer, we are particularly keen to attract candidates who share our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture and who are passionate about advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We are also committed to providing reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair and accessible recruitment process. Applicants are encouraged to let us know of any support needed to enable full participation.

As a small charity, Honour Thy Woman truly values the commitment, time, and expertise our Trustees bring. By joining our Trustee Board, you will benefit from: 

· A warm, inclusive, and supportive introduction to the organisation.

· The fulfilment of making a genuine difference, helping ensure survivors across Gloucestershire                  and  beyond access the support and services they need and deserve.

· The opportunity to play a key role in the next phase of development for a vital, survivor centred                   organisation.

· The chance to develop your leadership capabilities while gaining valuable governance experience.

· The power of working collaboratively to achieve more than could be achieved individually.

· A meaningful opportunity to apply your skills and experience within the voluntary sector.

What difference will you make?

As Treasurer, you will play a vital role in safeguarding the financial health of our organisation. Your professional insight will help us manage resources responsibly, strengthen our sustainability, and ensure that our services continue to reach those who need them most.

Time commitment

Attending 4 annual online Board meetings of an evening. Attendance of ad-hoc Advisory Group meetings and optional event attendance. Trustees should also allocate time to read and respond to emails.

The overall Time Commitment is estimated at approximately 8–10 hours per month, plus quarterly Board meetings.

As a Polish Interpreter Volunteer, you will be supporting individuals (on an adhoc basis) who speak little to no English and helping them to communicate with others in society. This role is necessary for our service user to feel included as well as supported. This would be a great opportunity for you to meet someone new and make a difference in their time at Hestia!

What you will be doing

• To maintain strict confidentiality and good working relationships
• To be able to meet with client when required for appointments and other professional meetings when needed
• Speech translating along with translating written documents from English to Polish

The skills you need

• Fluent in Polish
• Be understanding and patient, as well as sensitive to service user’s emotions
• A good communicator who is able to create a relaxing and nurturing environment

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Zumba is an upbeat and lively dance that will put a smile on everyone’s face. Are you qualified to deliver an online Zumba class and would like to give back to the community?

We are recruiting for a volunteer to bring some positive energy, fun and demonstrate the health benefits of Zumba through online sessions!

What you will be doing

• Coordinate and set up a weekly Online Zumba class
• Inspire and motivate members to take part in the sessions and take a role in planning/designing upcoming sessions
• Create a fun and safe space for individuals to express themselves through Zumba
• Encourage members of the group to connect and relate to each other through expression of Zumba

The skills you need

• Qualified to teach Zumba
• Good communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages participation
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun.

Do you enjoy playing games and engaging with people? Are you interested in boosting people’s socialising abilities and cater a safe and cheerful experience? If so, we are recruiting for a volunteer to facilitate weekly games and chat sessions at our Service.

What you will be doing

• Coordinate and set up a weekly games and chat group
• Create a safe space for individuals to express themselves
• Teach people how to play new card and board games
• In the sessions encourage members of the group to connect and relate to each other through playing cards, board games and holding conversations

The skills you need

• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Calm, patient, friendly and welcoming
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback, and report any concerns to the staff team.

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most. Join Us as a Board Member.

Target Housing is a bold, purpose-driven charity providing safety, stability and hope for people facing some of life’s toughest challenges, from entrenched rough sleeping to domestic abuse, trauma, mental health and complex needs.

We’ve grown rapidly over the last five years. Today, we own 160+ homes and manage another 800+ across the region, delivering trauma-informed, people-centred support that changes lives for good.

Now we’re looking for new Board Members who want to use their skills for something that genuinely matters.

What You’ll Do

• Help steer a growing, values-led organisation making a real difference every single day.

• Bring your insight to strengthen our governance, people decisions and risk management.

• Support strategic thinking across housing, care and charitable services.

• Join Board meetings helld every two months in Rotherham (remote attendance also available), plus occasional sub-groups.

This is a voluntary role with expenses covered, but the impact you’ll have is priceless.

Who You Are

• Someone who cares about people, fairness and long-term change.

• Confident contributing to big-picture conversations, not just your specialism.

• Values driven, collaborative, and unafraid to ask the right questions.

• We are especially keen to hear from people who have legal or HR experience, ready to fill a crucial skills gap on our Board.

Why This Matters

Because behind every decision we make is someone trying to rebuild their life.
You’ll help ensure they get the safety, support and second chance they deserve.

If you're ready to use your expertise for real social impact, we’d love to hear from you. For an informal chat, please contact Steve Crane our CEO.

Are you creative? Would you like to support others to express their emotions through arts and crafting? You will be supporting people to express their emotions, provide a time for people to relax and feel proud of their final art products!

What you will be doing

• To prepare arts and craft sessions, involving individuals in the planning process where possible
• Inspire and motivate individuals to develop their arts and craft skills, assisting them in the creation of their projects and supporting them to brainstorm and use their own initiative
• Encourage individuals to continue independent activities

The skills you need

• Experience of arts and/or crafts either in a professional, educational, or personal level
• Able to collaborate with individuals to plan an art group session and facilitate confidently
• A calm and patient manner
• Ability to provide a trusting, open, kind-hearted atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• An effective communicator with a patient and sympathetic nature

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun.

Are you a qualified Yoga Instructor who would enjoy facilitating weekly sessions to help individuals with their general well-being. This is an opportunity for you to share techniques with others. We are looking for a volunteer who is available on Thursdays at 12pm!

What you will be doing

• Design session plans enabling all group members to increase fitness, suppleness and help them relax
• Teach the group yoga postures and breathing techniques which allow a range of mixed ages and abilities to participate
• Inspire and motivate people to attend and get involved in the group activities where possible and encourage the group to help design future sessions
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback and report any concerns to the staff team

The skills you need

• Skilled and qualified Yoga Instructor
• Good communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Are you passionate about health and wellbeing? Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others through movement and mindfulness? We’re looking for a Yoga and Fitness Instructor Volunteer to support our service users at Medway Recovery House. This role is a fantastic opportunity to share your skills and promote physical and mental wellbeing in a supportive environment.

What you will be doing

• Leading weekly yoga or fitness sessions tailored to the needs of our residents
• Encouraging participation and creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere
• Supporting individuals in building confidence and improving their physical health

The skills you need

• Experienced and qualified in yoga and fitness
• A friendly, patient, and encouraging approach
• Good communication skills

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Zumba is an upbeat and lively dance that will put a smile on everyone’s face. Are you qualified to deliver a Zumba class and would like to give back to the community?

We are recruiting for a volunteer to bring some positive energy, fun and demonstrate the health benefits of Zumba for the women in our refuge!

What you will be doing

• Coordinate and set up a weekly Zumba class
• Inspire and motivate women to take part in the sessions and take a role in planning/designing upcoming sessions
• Create a fun and safe space for individuals to express themselves through Zumba
• Encourage members of the group to connect and relate to each other through expression of Zumba

The skills you need

• Qualified to teach Zumba
• Good communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages participation
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun.

Solace is seeking to recruit 3 new Shadow Board members, with lived experience of VAWG to work alongside and act as a critical friend to the Board of Trustees. We are looking to culminate a diverse Shadow Board with a range of expertise and skills, to work together with the Board of Trustees in fulfilling responsibilities for the strategic direction and overall governance of the organisation.

By joining our Shadow Board, you will have the exciting and important opportunity to use your lived experience, skills and expertise to drive the success of a growing organisation that makes a profound and positive impact on the lives of women and girls who have suffered from violence and abuse.

Are you passionate about food and wellbeing? Do you enjoy sharing your culinary skills and nutritional knowledge to empower others? This role is a fantastic opportunity to support individuals in building confidence, life skills, and healthier habits through food.

What you will be doing

• Leading weekly cooking sessions tailored to residents’ needs and interests
• Sharing tips on healthy eating, meal planning, and nutrition
• Creating a welcoming, inclusive environment that encourages participation
• Supporting individuals in building confidence and life skills through food

The skills you need

• Experienced and qualified nutritionist
• A friendly, patient, and encouraging approach
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to adapt sessions to suit different needs and abilities

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Do you enjoy connecting with others? Join us as a Lunch Club Volunteer and help create a warm, welcoming space for older adults in Roehampton!

Do you have a passion for ballet and want to make a difference? We’re looking for a volunteer to support a beginner on a one-to-one basis. This role may involve a mix of remote and face-to-face sessions!

What you will be doing

• Deliver ballet sessions tailored to the individual’s beginner level
• Encourage and motivate the individual to build confidence and enjoy learning.
• Plan and adapt sessions to suit the individual’s pace and goals.
• Agree on session times and format (in-person or remote).

The skills you need

• Ballet experience required
• Qualification desired but not essential
• Patience and ability to teach beginners.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable and committed to regular sessions.

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.