Early years volunteer volunteer roles

Trustee Opportunity at Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire is seeking new trustees to help shape the future of our high-performing advice charity.

With offices in Grantham, Spalding and Stamford, plus outreach centres across the region, we support a population of 225,000 people. Last year, we helped 14,000 clients with 60,000 issues and secured over £7 million of additional income for them. We are here for everyone to help people move on with their lives.

As a trustee, you’d join a well-known, respected charity, influence strategy, strengthen governance and contribute to meaningful change. This is an opportunity to share your expertise with other professional, dedicated trustees, gain valuable experience, build on your leadership and strategy skills, and increase your employability. Prior Board experience is not required.

We welcome expertise in digital media, finance, fundraising, HR, IT, law, marketing, PR, risk management, senior management, local government, or strategy.

What do you need to become a trustee?

Trustees don’t need specific qualifications, but we expect all trustees to have six core skills:

● Insight into the organisation: considering CASL’s objects and its public benefit strategically

● Challenging constructively: clarifying facts; stimulating thought

● Analysing issues: being objective; evaluating risks; using evidence; planning ahead

● Weighing up opinions: using evidence; balancing long- and shortterm; prioritising value

● Interpersonal skills: communicating clearly; listening actively; supporting a healthy culture

● Confidence and self-awareness: collaborating with others; treating everyone with respect.

The Board also values specialist skills as assets among its members:

● experience or qualifications in:

 ‣ business or charity leadership

 ‣ equity, diversity and inclusion

 ‣ facilitation

 ‣ finance and accountancy

 ‣ human resources

 ‣ IT, AI or digital media

‣ law or governance

‣ local government

‣ marketing, PR or communications

‣ risk management, or

‣ strategy development

● past experience as a client or service user of this (or a similar) organisation

● a track record of charitable fundraising, or

● being an effective chair. 

Finally, competent trustees should have these six personal qualities to some extent, and demonstrate them in their behaviours:

● Committed - motivated, dedicated, persevering; plays an active role.

● Responsible - accountable, independent, reliable; accepts collective responsibility.

● Trustworthy - ethical, principled; is a critical friend and focuses on continuous improvement.

● Collaborative - team-oriented, approachable; builds relationships and seeks consensus.

● Confident - independent; contributes constructively and expresses opinions courageously.

● Thoughtful - curious, adaptable, open-minded; appropriately challenges the status quo

We are currently looking to recruit an external trustee to join our Board of Trustees and also act as chair to the Finance and Audit Sub-Committee. We will also require the trustee to support our whistleblowing policy, acting as the nominated trustee contact for whistleblowing concerns.  You’ll champion openness and ensure the organisation has safe, fair, and effective processes for raising and handling concerns.

Your SU is overseen by our Board of Trustees, and our trading subsidiary (CUSU Services Ltd) is overseen by our Commercial Services Board . They are both made up of a collection of our elected Officers, students, university staff and external professionals that ensure the Charity and the Trading Subsidiary remain sustainable in terms of finance, legality and reputational status.

You will be expected to attend Board meetings 4 times per year – these will be a mix of in person and Teams meetings. You will also be expected to support at least one sub-committee of the Trustee Board (3-4 times per year) as well as complete training and induction. You will need some time to allow for prereading of reports and other documentation before meetings. 

Trustee meetings are typically held on a Friday afternoon 1pm-4pm. Most of the meetings are online, although you would be offered travel expenses for any face-to-face meetings (and hybrid meetings are usually offered if you do need to join remotely.) There is also a strategy day once a year as well as the occasional social activity!

For this trustee role, we are looking for an experienced professional ideally with third-sector governance experience. In addition to being a member of the Board of Trustees the trustee will be required to chair the Finance and Audit subcommittee and should possess a strong finance background with analytical skills and the ability to communicate complex financial information.

We are especially keen to encourage applications from people currently under-represented within the organisation, including but not limited to those from the LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, and those from a Global Majority background. We hope that by enhancing our diversity we can extend our organisational creativity and problem solving through the different perspectives and life experiences which diversity brings.

Please note that this is an unpaid voluntary role.

For further information there is a full recruitment pack and role profile available to download or visit our website for more information.

Our Mission

Brain tumours do not discriminate, and they do not respect boundaries. They can strike anyone, at any age. And they strike quickly.

Each volunteer is vital to making The Twilight Walk, a walking event that raises funds and awareness for brain tumours, such a special and successful day. No matter the role you play, you’ll make a big difference to us and all our walkers.

How can you help?

As a Route Marshal you will work as a team alongside section leaders (staff), to ensure participants are safe and looked after throughout the walk. You’ll get to cheer on, support and motivate our walkers throughout The Twilight Walk 5km and 10km route, and help create an exciting, energetic and enjoyable walking experience. You will not be alone for this role, all volunteers will be with at least 1 other volunteer at different aid stations along the route.

Responsibilities:

• To ensure all walkers keep to the pavements and walkways and don’t overspill on to the roads.
• To direct walkers to go in single file where appropriate and to ensure that all pedestrians have an equal opportunity to use pavements and walkways.
• To ensure that all walkers remain on the designated walk route, unless otherwise instructed to by yourself, your section leader or a member of the emergency services.
• To ensure that no walker walks alone. There will be designated front, back and middle walkers to make sure we do not lose anyone.
• To ensure that all walkers are respectful of the local community and try to keep noise to a reasonable level, especially through the residential areas of the route.
• If you are near to an item that could cause injury – i.e. a bollard, advise all walkers as they pass.
• Walkers will let you know if they need a first aider, if they have lost a child or if they would like to drop out of the walk. You will be given full details on how to deal with situations like this in your briefing on the day of the event.
• To ensure that children are properly supervised by their parent or guardian when crossing any roads. It is not your responsibility to cross the walkers or stop traffic – you are only there as assistance if needed

What impact will you have?

The Twilight Walk London is our biggest fundraising event of the year, where 1,300 supporters come together to raise vital funds for The Brain Tumour Charity. However and wherever you get involved, you’ll be part of our dedicated community, uniting around the same goal – beating brain tumours for good.

We’re looking for

As part of our volunteer team you will be enthusiastic, friendly and approachable at all times, ensuring our walkers safety comes first.

• Clear communication skills
• Responsible and reliable
• Able to walk up to 10km (potentially more) and stand up for long periods of time
• This role involves being outside for the duration of the walk so warm clothing and comfortable shoes are essential.

The Brain Tumour Charity is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals belonging to minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented communities.

What can you gain from volunteering?

• You’ll have the opportunity to develop your communication and people skills through giving clear directions and instructions to participants.
• You’ll develop an understanding of how the Events team organises our flagship event.
• You’ll help the Events team raise more than £3.9 million a year, helping fund life-changing support and pioneering research.

Time commitment

The Twilight Walk London is taking place on Saturday 21st March 2026 at Lindley Hall. Route marshals will need to arrive at 10:30am and will be able to leave from 18:00pm (these times are estimates and subject to change).

We appreciate not everyone can commit to volunteering for the whole day. If you can commit to a few hours and would like to volunteer, please select the shift that suits you. If you need to leave early, let us know so we can ensure there is someone available to check you in and out. We ask that you arrive at the shift start time to receive your on-the-day briefing. Any time you can volunteer is greatly appreciated.

Practical considerations

You will receive training for the role, as well as ongoing direction from one of the team, who will be your key contact. Volunteers must be over 18. We encourage volunteers to claim for any reasonable expenses that are incurred in the course of their volunteering with The Charity.

Need support with the application process?

We are committed to being inclusive and recognise that there may be a number of ways we could support you through

the application process. If there’s any adjustments we can make to help you fully engage in the process, don’t hesitate

to let us know by getting in touch with the Volunteering Team.

Looking for a role where you can drive forward cancer prevention and earlier diagnosis within an innovative, impact focused research charity?  

The Eve Appeal is recruiting up to 3 new Trustees to the Board with additional opportunities to join other Committees of the Board such as our Finance and Audit Committee or Research Committee. 

The Eve Appeal is the leading gynaecological cancer charity. There are five gynae cancers, which are womb, ovarian, cervical, vulval and vaginal cancer. Our aim is to prevent gynae cancers from developing in the first place, but if they do develop, we want to make sure they’re detected early so more people survive their diagnosis.

To make our goals a reality, we fund research in four key areas: uncovering the causes of gynae cancers, predicting a person’s risk of developing them, identifying how people can reduce their risk, and improving their detection and diagnosis.

We educate; we increase awareness and we provide free confidential and expert information through our Ask Eve nurse service.

We are now looking to strengthen our Board and are seeking candidates who share our commitment to driving forward medical research, raising awareness and promoting education around how these diseases can be diagnosed at the earliest stage or prevented.

We are committed to broadening the range of backgrounds and perspectives represented on our Board. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian, Disabled, Working Class and younger candidates, as well as individuals based outside London.

We also strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience—including patients, survivors, carers and family members. Bringing in Trustees who are expert by experience adds valuable insight and perspectives into the emotional, practical and systemic challenges faced by those affected, enriching the Board’s understanding and improving decision‑making. 

We have a highly skilled Board of Trustees and are looking to broaden and strengthen skills in the following areas: 

• Fundraising and philanthropic giving. We have seen incredible success with our fundraising programme in recent years and are now particularly focused on building our major gifts programme 

• Digital, AI tech solutions and strategy. We are ambitious to adopt solutions across all areas of our activity that embrace digital technology 

• HR / People. Experience across culture, staff and volunteer wellbeing, effective recruitment skills and organisational culture experience 

• Research / medical / NHS strategy and delivery experience. Experience in the UK / and or international health sector (private, public, academic).

Becoming a Trustee 

You will help lead the Board’s responsibilities across all areas of governance including strategy development and staff mentoring, evaluation and impact, ensuring donor and beneficiary aspirations, commitments and needs are met and the charity is fulfilling all of its charitable objects and agreed strategic objectives.

You will work within the legal and regulatory framework set out by the Charity Commission and will be supported by the CEO and senior staff team at Eve to enable you to do this effectively. You will have exceptional communication, interpersonal and analytical skills with the confidence and ability to ensure decisions are actioned in a timely manner. 

This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. In return you’ll gain valuable experience and satisfaction, and the opportunity to develop your skills and utilise your expertise and knowledge. 

People from all backgrounds are welcomed, as The Eve Appeal aspires to build a committed and diverse board that reflects our beneficiaries and communities. 

To apply please submit a CV and covering letter.

The Stuart Low Trust are thrilled to invite you to volunteer to support our Spring Term (April-June 2026) programme of Arts, Nature and Wellbeing activities, which operate across Islington and London! 

Rooted in the Islington community and founded in memory of Stuart Low, who sadly took his own life in 1997, we work to ensure no one faces mental health challenges alone or without support.

We collaborate with facilitators, with assistance from volunteers, to provide our Arts, Nature, and Wellbeing programmes for people living with, or recovering from, mental health issues. Running during working hours as well as evenings and weekends, our group activities are inclusive, social, and creative – grounded in the belief that offering shared experiences can be transformative in helping to build connection, challenge stigma, and improve wellbeing. 

Who Can Volunteer?

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, lived experiences, and abilities, aged 18 and over, who are passionate about supporting people experiencing social isolation and/or mental health issues. No prior qualifications or experience is needed. Ideal volunteers are empathetic, sensitive to diverse needs, confident in group settings, and able to remain calm, adaptable, and professional. Whatever your interests or experience, there’s a place for you on our team.

Applicants should use the application form to select volunteer roles that best match their interests, skills, and availability (e.g. Nature Visit Volunteer, Wellbeing Workshop Volunteer, etc.). 

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering with us is fun, rewarding, and a chance to make a real difference in your community. You’ll gain valuable skills, receive safeguarding and mental health training, have travel expenses reimbursed, and be supported onsite and throughout your volunteering journey by SLT staff. Activities are varied and dynamic, and you’ll meet people with diverse lived experiences, alleviate loneliness and the impacts of mental health challenges, while also becoming part of our friendly volunteer community and eligible for a reference. 

How Does it Work?

We run our activities year-round across four terms: Winter Term: Jan-March, Spring Term: April-June, Summer Term: July-Sept, Autumn Term: Oct-Dec. 

We’re currently recruiting volunteers for our Spring Term (April–June 2026).

If you join us this Spring and would like to continue volunteering in the Summer, Autumn, or beyond, we’d be delighted to have you. We support long-term volunteering and will regularly check in so you can let us know if you’d like to stay involved. 

Person Specification 

Requirements: 
- A minimum of 18-years-old. 
- Willing to complete a DBS check (paid for by SLT). 
- Willing to provide contact details for two referees. 
- Able to commit to in-person workshops (regularly or flexibly, dependant on role) 
- Able to attend a three-hour in-person volunteer training session. 
- Based in or near to London. 
 
Skills: 
- Passion for working with participants experiencing social isolation and/or mental health issues. 
- Awareness of mental health issues. 
- Excellent communication and listening skills. 
- Helpful assisting in a group setting. 
- Ability to remain calm, centred and professional, while keeping a sense of humour. 

*Necessary requirements and skills are conditional to the specific volunteer role(s) applicants select in the application form (e.g. ‘Art Workshop Volunteer’). Please read the Volunteer Roles & Application Pack attached for more information. 

Expenses 

Stuart Low Trust reimburses travel expenses for volunteer-related activities. 

How Can I Apply?

1. Read the Volunteer Roles & Application Pack so you have all the necessary information before applying.

1. Apply now using the Online Application Form. The deadline to apply is 2nd March 2026, 11:59 GMT, you will hear back about your application in mid-March 2026. 

 If your application is successful, volunteering will begin in April/May 2026, following identity checks and training. 

We can’t wait to receive your application to volunteer!

Do you live in Wales and want to gain valuable skills, have new experiences, and support vulnerable people?

We are offering 2 young people aged 18-25 the opportunity to volunteer with the Portuguese Red Cross in Braga, Portugal. Next placement dates are planned for: 5th January - end of August 2026.

You will be working on a range of projects, which will give you the chance to explore the different kinds of social action that the Portuguese Red Cross undertake in Braga. 

Typical tasks may involve:

• Supporting the charity shop, Ponto Vermelho, with social media, sorting donations and organising the displays.
• Supporting in the Youth Centre for the Roma Community – organising and delivering activities, helping with homework.
• Supporting in the Foster Care for Unaccompanied Minor Refugees.
• Supporting the Social Kindergarten.
• Assisting with projects which help the homeless and the elderly.
• Assisting in the writing of project proposals and funding bids.

It's a fantastic opportunity to get involved in projects and find out what you are interested in. For more details on the role and the projects available, have a look at the role description. The main thing we want to see is your motivation for this placement! These are fully funded placements, with return flights, accommodation and health insurance covered - volunteers receive a small monthly stipend for living expenses.

Please note that only young people based in Wales can apply for this role, as it is Taith funded. Interviews will take place online with shortlisted candidates.

We are keen to hear from individuals especially those who do not normally get the chance to volunteer overseas, who are passionate and motivated about working in the humanitarian sector and international volunteering but who also understand that these types of placements require adaptability and resilience. We are especially interested in applications from those who are from low socio-economic backgrounds, are carers or are care experienced, have accessed free school meals, are refugees or asylum seekers and those with disabilities or additional needs.

Our Mission

Brain tumours do not discriminate, and they do not respect boundaries. They can strike anyone, at any age. And they strike quickly. We understand that taking on a fundraising challenge isn’t as simple as putting one foot in front of the other. Combine the physical challenge with an ambitious fundraising target, taking part for a charity close to your heart and finding time to train, the challenge can feel overwhelming. This is where our Motivational Caller volunteers play a vital role. By offering encouragement, reassurance and a listening ear, they empower fundraisers to reach their goals!

How can you help?

To ensure our fundraisers receive the best possible support, we like to give each of them a call ahead of their challenge event to wish them good luck and offer encouragement. With hundreds of fundraisers taking part, we rely on the support of our volunteers to help make these calls possible.

This is what your volunteer role will look like:

• The Events team will provide clear, step-by-step instructions to help you log into our telephone system from the comfort of your own home. This usually takes around 10 minutes and you’re very welcome to do this alongside a member of staff via a Teams call if you’d prefer extra support.

• You’ll receive a password-protected spreadsheet containing a list of fundraisers allocated to you. Calls can be made at a time that suits you, during the week or two leading up to each challenge event.

• We will provide you with all the information you need including a script to follow and frequently asked questions so that you feel confident to make calls to our fundraisers.

• After each call, you’ll simply update the spreadsheet with any key notes or feedback.

What impact will you have?

By calling our fundraisers, you’ll create a personal connection with members of our community and help them feel recognised, valued and supported for the incredible efforts they’re making. By helping fundraisers reach the start line feeling supported and inspired, you’ll play a vital role in maximising the funds raised for The Brain Tumour Charity, directly contributing to life-changing support services and vital research for the future.

We are looking for:

As part of our volunteer team you will be enthusiastic, friendly and willing to chat to our fundraisers about the event they are taking part in. We need you to have:

• Great verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• A friendly telephone manner
• General interest in The Charity and/or our fundraising events
• Access to the internet, preferable through a secure Wi-Fi source
• Basic IT skills, including using the Microsoft Authenticator App and Excel.
• Access to a laptop or computer (preferred)

What can you gain from volunteering?

• You’ll have the opportunity to develop your communication and listening skills through one-to-one conversations with our fundraisers.

• You’ll develop an understanding of how the Events team at The Charity operates.

• You’ll help the Events team raise more than £3.9 million a year, helping fund life-changing support and pioneering research.

Time commitment

We’ll need your help in the week or two leading up to each of our Challenge events throughout the year. The role is very ad-hoc and flexible, so you’ll be free to make the phone calls at a time to suit you within those weeks. Our busiest times of year are Spring and Autumn!

All phone calls will need to be carried out between 10am – 4pm on weekdays only. This is a remote role.

Practical considerations

You will receive a full induction to The Brain Tumour Charity and any specific training for the role, as well as ongoing direction from one of the team, who will be your key contact. Volunteers must be over 18. The Brain Tumour Charity is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals belonging to minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented communities. We encourage volunteers to claim for any reasonable expenses that are incurred in the course of their volunteering with The Charity. Find out more in our Volunteer Expenses Policy. If we receive a high volume of applications, we may close the role early, so we’d encourage you to apply at your earliest opportunity.

Need support with the application process?

We are committed to being inclusive and recognise that there may be a number of ways we could support you through the application process. If there’s any adjustments we can make to help you fully engage in the process, don’t hesitate to let us know by getting in touch with the Volunteering Team.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

We are looking for a patient and caring volunteer to visit a man in his early 60s who lives in a supported living home in central Coventry. He enjoys going to watch the football, woodwork and crafts, gentle walks, and watching sports and films.

Out and About Role

This is an Out and about visit role which means your visits are likely to be longer, very active and the person you visit will often take an active part in planning your outings and activities in the community. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tends to be around a couple of hours, sometimes shorter or longer, depending on what you plan to do.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat
• Checking in on their well- being
• Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink
• Take part on community activities like visiting a place of interest, go shopping etc.
• Enjoying a walk
• A craft activity at home

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

**About Mencap ** Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

We are looking for a patient and caring volunteer to visit a man in his early 60s who lives in a supported living home in central Coventry. He enjoys going to watch the football, woodwork and crafts, gentle walks, and watching sports and films.

Watch a video about this role here

This is an Out and about visit role which means your visits are likely to be longer, very active and the person you visit will often take an active part in planning your outings and activities in the community. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tends to be around a couple of hours, sometimes shorter or longer, depending on what you plan to do.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat
• Checking in on their well- being
• Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink
• Take part on community activities like visiting a place of interest, go shopping etc.
• Enjoying a walk
• A craft activity at home

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

**About Mencap ** Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

Support the work of St John Ambulance in your community by volunteering as a Community Volunteer, an exciting new role which is designed to revamp how volunteering looks in the modern world; flexible, innovative and is open for all.

We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient. Community Volunteers can choose from a wide selection of activities – including fundraising, talks and demonstrations, supporting at events, volunteer welfare, social media and administration support.

Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives.

Give as much (or little) time as you can afford. With this new role, you simply volunteer when it works for you. That means you can give as much time as you like or as little as 24 hours across a whole year, whenever it suits you. It’s perfect for busy lives, changing schedules, or for anyone seeking a low-commitment involvement. 

The Community Volunteer provides an easy way to stay connected and contribute meaningfully to your local community. Here are some examples of what you could do: 

• Community fundraising
• Talks and demonstrations
• Support at events
• Volunteer welfare
• Community Roadshows
• Supporting national campaigns
• Counting and banking money
• Booking events
• Supporting Networks  
• Administration support
• Writing thank you and community letters
• Media and social media
• Community news and Network newsletters 

Through volunteering as a Community Volunteer, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.

Once we have completed your selection and screening for this role, we will provide you with an induction, as well as invite you to any necessary training sessions. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Great opportunities in Wells, Shepton Mallet, Yeovil, Frome, Street and Glastonbury for you to be active in your local Community by joining St John Ambulance to help with fundraising, giving talks and demonstrations of basic first aid or supporting existing volunteers.

The role is very flexible with just a minimum requirement of 24 hours per year. Training will be given and uniform provided to you.

Interviews to start in early March 2026, Welcome events in late March/early April 2026.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 24/03/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year and, in many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

We’re looking for a kind, patient, and confident volunteer to spend time with a lovely gentleman in his early 60s who lives in Crosby. His previous volunteer has recently retired, and he’d really appreciate some friendly company again.

He has profound and multiple learning disabilities, and while he communicates in his own way, he absolutely lights up around people he trusts. He enjoys good food, classic 80s TV shows, and the comfort of familiar faces. Your visit would be a gentle check-in — sharing a cuppa, a chat, and simply being present.

This is a Check in visit role, meaning that your visits are likely to be short - on average 30 minutes or less. Some of the people we visit may be unable to communicate with words. Sometimes the person might choose not to meet with their visitor. Your visit is however very important, and these are some of the things you could be doing on a visit: • Checking in on their well-being and speak to support staff to get an update on how the person is doing • You might be able to bring a treat that the person enjoys, like chocolates or fruit. • Some people we support enjoy sensory experiences so items that will stimulate their senses can also help you create a sense of connection with the person you visit. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions.

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

**About Mencap ** Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in South West London, and helps them to play their full part in the community. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives. 

We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background, providing them the tools they need to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for adults include currently include: ESOL classes; sports; women’s creative writing; women’s coffee morning, and casework. 

About the CARAS Adult Team: 

In the post-pandemic environment, CARAS is responding to the role of digital literacies in our programme delivery to learners of asylum-seeking and refugee background. In contrast to the UK essential Digital skills framework, we have built in language inclusion to create a participatory learning course for Essential Digital Literacies for learners who are new to reading and writing in English. The individuals joining CARAS are highly diverse, with different countries of origin, linguistic and educational backgrounds. We have observed over the last year that many CARAS community members have limited digital skills, particularly in regard to using computers. Community members have highlighted that computers are important for many individuals to achieve their educational and employment goals, whilst increasing confidence and independence. We have co-designed a digital skills program in partnership with CARAS community members to improve computer literacy and skills, focusing on basic computer literacy.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Digital Skills Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The Digital Skills group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the digital skills sessions is as follows: 

• Tuesday evenings 4pm to 6pm 

Volunteers are required to attend one session per week. They are also welcome to come early and support ESOL classes before the Digital Skills sessions, where appropriate. 

The Tuesday Digital skills sessions focus on practical, accessible digital skills, such as, but not limited to: 

• Using computers, tablets, or smartphones confidently 

• Keyboard and navigation skills 

• Using email and online communication tools 

• Accessing learning platforms and online resources 

• Online safety and digital wellbeing 

• Using digital tools to support English learning, homework and study skills 

The aim of the Digital Skills sessions is to build independence, confidence, and digital inclusion, supporting young people to engage more fully with formal education and everyday life in the UK. Enrolments to the programme are based on rolling admissions, requiring adaptability to the changing digital skills needs of the group through participatory enquiry led by the ESOL teacher. 

The ESOL teacher will provide guidance, session plans, and tips for supporting learners with emerging English, including how to explain digital concepts in clear, accessible ways. 

Volunteers will typically work with 1–5 students, offering one-to-one or small group support and adapting tasks to different ability levels. 

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing one-to-one or small group support during Digital Skills sessions 

• Supporting young people to use digital devices and software confidently 

• Helping to set up the classroom and digital equipment 

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session 

• Sharing observations on learners’ progress, challenges, and successes 

• Making use of any community languages if any, to support learners’ understanding 

• Working collaboratively as part of a team and helping to shape the project 

• Supporting young people to recognise and celebrate their achievements 

• Showing flexibility to a wide range of ability levels and confidence with technology 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, and all other relevant policies 

Requirements: 

Essential: 

• Aged 18 years or older 

• An interest in education, digital inclusion, and supporting young people 

• Confident using computers, smartphones, or tablets 

• Currently resident in the UK or has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses and willing to undergo a DBS check 

• DBS and proof of residency are not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK 

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to starting 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed) 

• Non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds 

• Reliable and punctual, with a commitment of at least one session per week for a minimum of 4 months 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English 

• Willingness to explain digital concepts patiently and clearly 

• Ability to volunteer during Wandsworth term time 

Desirable 

• Experience supporting young people with digital skills or IT (formal or informal) 

• Knowledge of community languages such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali, or Spanish 

• Experience working with young people, refugees, or learners of English in a work or volunteer capacity 

• Interest in using digital tools to support language learning 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will be invited to a taster session at CARAS, following which they will have an informal interview with a staff member of the CARAS ESOL team and a community member. All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. These meetings and the induction training will be on a rolling basis, so apply ASAP!

School governors are people who want to make a positive contribution to children’s education. Governors are needed to support and challenge schools to help realise their potential.

Anyone with an interest in education can be a governor. Governors are volunteers who work to further the school’s development.

The governing board consists of people from the school’s community, parents, school staff and representatives of the council.

Together with the headteacher they set the future direction for the school and decide how the school’s budget should be spent.

Volunteering as part of our Cycle Hire addition to Ickworth's Visitor Experience, this role is to shape and develop the cycling culture at Ickworth and support with customer service as well as hiring out bikes.

By getting involved you could:

• Join an enthusiastic and varied team and form new friendships 
• Volunteer at this beautiful and inspiring property 
• Enjoy new experiences and learn something new every day 
• Let your personality shine, and build connections with our visitors and wider property team 
• Know you have made a difference to someone’s day out

What's involved:

To support the Cycle Hire Supervisor in the day to day running of the cycle hire hub 

• Meeting and greeting visitors and understanding their requirements
• Following the protocols for hiring and returning bikes 
• Sizing bikes for visitors and supporting with trailer and balance bike hire 
• Helping visitors navigate and plan their cycle route across the estate 
• Basic bike repairs (if you can, training can be provided) 
• Supporting housekeeping, cleanings equipment and facilities for use 
• Developing a cycling culture across the Ickworth Team
• Being part of the ideas team for what else Ickworth can offer as part of our cycling offer 

*As part of this role you will have the opportunity to learn basic cycle maintenance, but it is your choice if you opt in to taking on this training and no one should attempt to fix an Ickworth bike without having this training signed off*

This role will suit you if you:

• Are friendly, cheerful and have a positive outlook to welcome everyone and inspire others 
• Enjoy providing exceptional service 
• Are able to adapt their skills and knowledge to suit different situations and people 
• Have a passion for the outdoors and for helping people access Ickworth and the National Trust