Family volunteer roles

We are now seeking a Secretary to the Board to help ensure our governance remains strong, organised and effective.Help strengthen the governance of a Sheffield charity that has supported people who are homeless, rootless or vulnerable every Christmas since 1989.

For five days over the festive period, HARC provides a warm, safe day shelter offering hot meals, warm clothing, wellbeing support and companionship. Our work is powered by volunteers and guided by a committed Board of Trustees.

The Secretary plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth and effective running of the charity. You’ll help keep our governance processes organised, compliant, and aligned with best practice. 

We’re keen to welcome people who can bring energy, fresh perspectives and a real sense of commitment to our small but dedicated board. You don’t need prior governance or compliance experience as we provide a full induction and ongoing training to help you feel confident in the role.

Be a catalyst for change. Champion mental wellness and positive masculinity for the next generation—share our story, open doors, create impact.

About Future Men

Future Men is a specialist charity working towards a better future for every boy, every man, and everyone. Since 1988, we've supported disadvantaged and marginalised young males at critical life transitions—school exclusion, antisocial behaviour, or first-time fatherhood. Our work builds emotional resilience, strengthens relationships, and helps boys and men to navigate key life transitions. We offer:

• School programmes improving behaviour, emotional regulation, and achievement
• Community mentoring keeping young men safe and connected
• Fatherhood support giving fathers tools to actively engage in their children's lives
• Advocacy influencing policy on fatherhood and masculinity

Rooted in an understanding of positive masculinities, we empower boys and men to thrive—not just survive—so they can contribute confidently and positively to their families, communities, and wider society. 

The Opportunity

Be a voice for change. As a Volunteer Ambassador, you'll help us reach new people, open doors, and champion a cause that's transforming lives across London.

This is a flexible, remote role that fits around your schedule—perfect if you're passionate about mental health, youth development, or building stronger communities.

What You'll Do

Connect & Introduce (the most powerful thing you can do)

• Make warm introductions to potential partners, funders, or supporters in your network
• Help us connect with corporates, foundations, and local organisations—especially in Southwark & Lambeth

Amplify Our Message

• Share Future Men's work on social media (LinkedIn, etc.) and in your professional circles
• Be a spokesperson: Share Future Men's message at various events, like community gatherings, school assemblies, or corporate meetings. This could involve giving short talks or presentations about our work.
• Use your voice (social media, events, conversations) to normalise discussions around mental wellness, integrity, and healthy relationships

Open Doors to Support

• Identify sponsorship opportunities or pro bono support (legal, marketing, HR, communications)
• Connect us with grant makers, volunteers, or in-kind resources

Share Your Insights

• Give us feedback on how Future Men is perceived and where we can strengthen our impact
• Provide feedback on community needs, challenges, and ideas to help us refine our approach

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong personal or professional networks (especially in business, corporate, or community sectors)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Comfortable making introductions and representing the organisation
• Commitment to our mission: positive masculinity, mental wellness, and mentorship
• Ability to commit 5 hours per month for at least 12 months

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience in fundraising, business development, or partnership building
• Knowledge of the charity sector or social issues affecting boys and men
• Experience using LinkedIn or other social media for advocacy

What We Offer

Training & Support

• Comprehensive induction and orientation session
• Welcome pack with key messages, brand guidelines, and social media assets
• Designated point of contact for ongoing support
• Regular check-ins and connection with the team

Other Benefits

• Reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., travel)
• A chance to make a tangible difference in boys' and men's lives
• Connection to a supportive, mission-driven team
• Flexibility to contribute in ways that suit your strengths and schedule

Safeguarding

Future Men is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. All volunteers are expected to share this commitment and adhere to our safeguarding policies. A basic DBS check may be required depending on the nature of your ambassador activities.

Important Information

• This is a voluntary, unpaid position
• Notice period: one month by either party
• You will be expected to maintain confidentiality regarding any sensitive information
• All ambassadors must adhere to Nolan's Seven Principles of Public Life

RSPCA Surrey East Branch

We are looking for fosterers in the Surrey East area, including Redhill, Reigate, Dorking, Horley, Lingfield, Oxted and Caterham.

We’re looking for cat-loving volunteers to play a vital role in helping us improve the wellbeing of the cats in our care whilst they wait to be rehomed. Can you help them by providing a calm and caring home whilst we find their purrfect forever home?

Overview of the opportunity

As a cat fosterer, you would be supporting the RSPCA in providing our cats with the safety of your home whilst tending to their welfare needs such as feeding and grooming. In addition to this, by providing a temporary loving environment, you will play a crucial role in a cat’s wellbeing and socialisation, which will significantly improve their chances of successful rehoming.

Once everything is in place, the branch will guide you through the fostering process and ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, food, and veterinary care for your fostered cat.

Our Animal Welfare Officer, Robyn, is the fostering coordinator, so she will provide our fosterers will all the help and support they need. We are a small, remote branch, so fostering will be the backbone of our rehoming operation. Volunteers will play an integral part to our branch. We don't operate at a large capacity, so we will always be on hand to support fosterers and navigate the fostering process with them. They will be joining the branch at a very exciting time, as we have only just launched our cat fostering scheme.

Whilst our cats are in your foster care, you will:

• Provide them with care, suitable housing, and a safe environment as per our policies and guidelines.

• Feed, water, and groom them in line with our advice.

• Transport them to any veterinary appointments (if required)

• Provide them with your time and patience.

• Help us spread the word about the cats in your care so they might find their forever home quicker.

• Playing and cuddles are also a must!

What we are looking for in a volunteer Cat Fosterer

• Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience caring for cats.

• Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

• For their wellbeing, our cats need to be kept in a separate room, so the whole family should be on board.

• Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they cannot be so, please let us know if this is the case).

What we can offer you as a volunteer Cat Fosterer

• You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the cats in your care.
• Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.
• Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.
• Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

It is worth mentioning that our cats do have different needs as whilst some are ready for rehoming others may require rehabilitation or ongoing medication. Therefore, we also aim to understand your situation and circumstances to ensure that we match you with your perfect foster cat.

If you would like to know more about fostering our cats and review our fostering process, including the changes we have made in light of Covid-19 to protect our staff and volunteers, please contact the Surrey East Branch.

How to Apply:

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!

Please visit our website to learn more about what we do.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for the Surrey East Branch.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and depending on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Our House Experience Volunteers add the sparkle to any visit – giving everyone a warm welcome, bringing stories from Ickworth to life and helping people get the best out of their day. 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Warm and friendly.
• Someone with a curious and inquisitive nature, with an ability to engage our visitors, ask questions and facilitate conversations.
• Able to listen thoughtfully and actively.
• Someone with exceptional customer service standards- a desire to put visitors before everything else.
• A good storyteller, with a talent for reading body language and thinking on your feet
• Sensitive to visitor and volunteer needs – working as an effective team member.
• Willing to develop your knowledge of Ickworth, its history and vast collections.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Responding to the diverse needs of visitors, including people with additional access needs.
• Sharing inspirational stories, curious facts and practical information or simply the space for visitors to wander at their own pace.
• Helping visitors to discover more, answering questions and making suggestions so they can enjoy their day, their way.
• Being an ambassador for the whole property and the National Trust. Helping visitors understand the full scope of the offer at Ickworth beyond the house.
• Learning more about Ickworth, so you can share your knowledge and stories of the family and their collections with visitors.
• Responding to the changing needs of Ickworth – supporting ongoing interpretation strategies in the House.
• Supporting with health and safety and evacuation procedures if required.
• Being part of a team that may need to adapt and change in response to local needs, National Trust priorities or changes to government guidelines 

 By getting involved you could· 

• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team.
  Spend time with us at Ickworth, learn about its history, stories and enjoy its beauty.
• Meet people from all walks of life
• Find an opportunity to use your existing skills and develop new ones.
  Improve your communication skills.
  Get a warm glow by knowing you have made a difference to someone’s day out with us.

 You’d also be joining Europe’s largest conservation charity and the wider National Trust team proudly looking after 780 miles of coastline, over 250,000 hectares of land, over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves (including lighthouses, villages, pubs and a gold mine!). We are a unique charity welcoming millions of people each year and with a vision to open up places for the benefit of everyone, for ever.

All National Trust volunteers will be asked to

• Respect and uphold the National Trust values whilst volunteering with us.
• Complete training required of all NT volunteers and any role specific training
• Adhere to relevant policies and processes including safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity. 

 We want all our volunteers to feel welcome and to have an equally positive experience when volunteering with us. So, volunteers will:

• Be provided with the necessary induction, training, equipment and reasonable adjustments to do this role well and safely
• Be offered expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering.
• Have remote access to support, news and rotas via our volunteer website 

Skills acquired: Adaptability, Communication Skills, Community Development, Customer Service, Event Support, Exhibition Arts, Fundraising, Interpersonal Skills, Public Relations, Public Speaking, Teamwork, Visual Arts

This is an unsalaried volunteer role.

Are you an experienced charity fundraiser? We are looking for a new Trustee with strong fundraising experience who shares a passion for our work and who, through their professional expertise, can offer support, guidance, and strategic insight to our Board, CEO, and senior management, helping to bring about positive impact and lasting change through the work of our Christian partners.

ROLE PURPOSE

Embrace the Middle East is a Christian Development charity (registered No. 1076329), established in 1854, with a mission to improve the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged people in the Middle East by working in partnership with local Christians, focussing on education, healthcare and community development. Its Board of Trustees (the Board) is responsible for the overall governance, monitoring and strategic direction of the charity. It works with the charity’s management to ensure that the charity fulfils the objects defined in its Articles, acts in accordance with the charity’s vision and mission, and complies will all legal and regulatory requirements.

Key responsibilities of trustees are:

To formulate and regularly review the strategic aims of the charity in accordance with its legal objects and to ensure that the policy and practices of the organisation are in keeping with its aims.

1. To monitor the performance of the charity against the agreed strategic aims.
2. To ensure that the organisation functions within the legal and regulatory requirements of a charitable organisation and strives to achieve best practice.
3. To act as guardians of the charity’s assets, both tangible and intangible, taking all due care over their security, deployment and proper application

For further information about the role, please download the Candidate Pack.

To express an interest in becoming a trustee at Embrace the Middle East, please complete the online application form via the apply button.

The closing date for applications is 4 May 2026.

VOLUNTEER POSITION – Grants Assistant

Hope and Vision Communities is a small charity based in Reading providing supported, move-on accommodation for people who have successfully completed residential rehabilitation.  We have a Christian ethos, where everyone can be loved and accepted with a sense of belonging, with the hope and opportunity of a new life. We are growing to expand who we can help to other geographical areas, as well as working on opening a women’s service.    

Growing our services means that we also need to grow our fundraising income, and to help reach this, we are looking for a skilled volunteer who could help us increase our grant submissions. The role will support the Trusts and Grants Fundraiser in managing a regular flow of grant applications to Trusts and Foundations.

Key Responsibilities

 •  Research and apply for grants and funding opportunities already identified in our CRM system - this could be potentially 3 applications a week where you prepare a customised case for support to be sent out to a funder

Key Skills and Qualifications

 •  Experience in using Microsoft Sharepoint for remote working

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

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

Do you want to take part in vegan volunteering around your local area?

You can do that – right here at The Vegan Society. 

We have an ever-growing Community Network of vegans just like you, who have a passion to volunteer and promote veganism where they live. 

Every month, our Network choose from a range of outreach tasks. These could include town centre stalls, writing to a councillor or MP, sharing our campaigns on social media or contacting local businesses. You're in control of how much or how little you do. 

As an Advocate, you will have a network of other Advocates and an Organiser in your area. Your Organiser will be your main point of contact. They will send you tasks every month and ask you to feed back on what you've completed and any positive outcomes. 

Why do we need you to volunteer?

As the vegan community grows, veganism itself becomes better understood. We're finding that more people are looking to The Vegan Society to find out what being vegan is all about.

Local communities are starting to see the vegan movement as something real and something that’s happening in their area. More people are embracing a vegan lifestyle, which we welcome. From new businesses, to families, to councillors, many people need support. This could be with a range of topics: going vegan, finding correct information around a vegan diet, providing vegan options in their business, MPs listening to vegan constituents, and learning about our work.

Local issues are often unique and more varied than national issues. Our volunteers from local areas are vital! They enable us to share our messages and campaigns in an effective way. Research tells us that people are far more likely to trust information from a peer rather than an outside expert, so community volunteering vastly increases the impact of our campaigns.

Our network of committed local vegans across the country is growing! The Vegan Society organises various outreach activities to influence change in every level of society. There are a range of activities going on all the time, from general educational stalls at events to meeting with local policy influencers.

Advocates are a crucial voice in their own community. They ensure that our campaign messages are spread far and wide. They provide a strong vegan presence in local communities.

What does the Advocate role involve?

Being an Advocate for veganism with The Vegan Society will mean communicating with people in your local community. You'll share the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. You will form part of a local group, headed up by a local Organiser. The Organiser will feed back your collective efforts to staff. You will also be invited to our private Facebook group, for vegan socialising and ideas sharing.

You’ll stay in touch with the Organiser and bring your passion to tasks. Activities can range from staffing a stall to giving a talk at an employee event. It could also mean writing to a local newspaper or lobbying an MP.

Messaging can differ every month. Part of our mission statement is to ensure people can remain vegan, so you might focus on getting more vegan options available in local businesses. Or within our Live Vegan for Less campaign, you may share cheap vegan recipes to help people with the cost of living.

When acting as an Advocate, you will use The Vegan Society’s branding and messaging guidelines. Your local Organiser will guide you in doing this, as they hold physical resources and handbooks. You can report any issues and feedback you have to your Organiser. You can also contact staff if your Organiser isn't available or you have any problems.

What training and support is available?

You will be provided with a big welcome and full induction from your local Organiser. They will introduce you to the group and any actions that are ongoing. Any training and development will be provided via your Organiser, and you can also ask for specific training on any areas that you need some development in.

What skills would be useful in doing this role?

• The ability to stay motivated in order to achieve the best possible outcomes
• Good email etiquette, responding in a timely manner
• Committed to veganism and the mission of The Vegan Society
• Ability to stay calm if confronted with differing opinions or challenges
• A good communicator, with the ability to be persuasive
• Confident in communicating with people from a range of backgrounds
• Experience of campaigning
• Any experience in talking with members of the public through customer/public service would be helpful
• Awareness of current affairs, especially those that relate to veganism
• Regular availability and a willingness to stay committed to actions
• Good team player

How much time do I need to invest? 

For Advocates, we ask for people to engage in a minimum of four to six actions per year. An example of an action could be writing to an MP or holding a stall. But the more you can do, the better! On occasion, there may also be online meetings to plan for actions or provide training.

At this exciting time, the Base71 Youth Zone team is seeking to strengthen its Board of Trustees, expanding to bring in fresh perspectives, skills, and experience. We are currently looking to appoint a Vice Chair.

This is a rare opportunity to be part of a project of real scale and ambition. As Base71 continues to grow and make a lasting impact, you’ll play a key role in shaping its future—helping to create meaningful, positive change for young people across Barnsley, both now and for years to come.

We’re looking for someone with a strong understanding of governance, alongside the ability to provide strategic oversight and support. Just as important is your commitment to inclusion, safeguarding, and ensuring that young people’s voices remain at the heart of everything the organisation does.

In this role, you will:

• Ensure the charity operates within the requirements and rules set out in its governing document, remaining true to its charitable purpose and objectives
• Support compliance with relevant legislation and any regulatory bodies overseeing the charity’s activities
• Work closely with the Chair to review Board skills and diversity, implement annual reviews and trustee self-assessments, and identify development needs
• Oversee the recruitment, registration, and induction of new trustees
• Deputise for the Chair when required, acting as a trusted sounding board and intermediary for fellow trustees where appropriate

If you’re ready to bring your expertise, insight, and passion to a forward-thinking organisation, we would love you to consider finding out more about the difference you could make in Barnsley—for today and for tomorrow.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces?  You don’t need a military background, just the ability to listen, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English.  If so, this could be the role for you.

Our Branch provides lifelong support to anyone who has ever served, in the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and their dependants. We also give support to those who has been in the Merchant Navy, Seafarers, Fishermen and their dependants, and British Airways staff past and present. Our main role is seeking welfare benevolent grants on behalf of clients who reside in the 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland. They can arrange anything from household goods, funeral costs, mobility aids or other general needs. Legal fees are not considered. We would advise clients to seek state and local benefits by signposting them to the relevant agencies.

What is a caseworker?

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of help they need, this might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit.  Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

Why do we need you?

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan.  Our trained volunteers listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help people navigate life in and beyond military service.  We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us achieve this.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting. Our volunteers are based at home with a yearly AGM invite.

What does this role involve?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time

• Meeting clients and completing a form to assess their circumstances

• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice

• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability

• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients

• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser

• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the

Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background and their dependents

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others

• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community

• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support will you receive?

• On-line or face to face instructor led training and e-learning modules, to prepare you for your voluntary role.

• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.

• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact. •

• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team.

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What skills or experience do you need?

• Good listening and communication skills including written and spoken English

• Respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues

• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills.  Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role  

• Ability to make enquires on behalf of clients by phone, email, letter or by filling in forms

• If required, willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the caseworker training course)

• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to friendship or giving advice

• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability 

• Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments with clients

• Friendly and approachable with some experience of coordinating people and admin

•       Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies. 

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18  

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required?  Yes, Garda Vetting, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces?  You don’t need a military background, just the ability to listen, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English.  If so, this could be the role for you.

Our Branch provides lifelong support to anyone who has ever served, in the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and their dependants. We also give support to those who has been in the Merchant Navy, Seafarers, Fishermen and their dependants, and British Airways staff past and present. Our main role is seeking welfare benevolent grants on behalf of clients who reside in the 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland. They can arrange anything from household goods, funeral costs, mobility aids or other general needs. Legal fees are not considered. We would advise clients to seek state and local benefits by signposting them to the relevant agencies.

What is a caseworker?

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of help they need, this might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit.  Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

Why do we need you?

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan.  Our trained volunteers listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help people navigate life in and beyond military service.  We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us achieve this.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting. Our volunteers are based at home with a yearly AGM invite.

What does this role involve?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time

• Meeting clients and completing a form to assess their circumstances

• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice

• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability

• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients

• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser

• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the

Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background and their dependents

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others

• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community

• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support will you receive?

• On-line or face to face instructor led training and e-learning modules, to prepare you for your voluntary role.

• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.

• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact. •

• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team.

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What skills or experience do you need?

• Good listening and communication skills including written and spoken English

• Respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues

• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills.  Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role  

• Ability to make enquires on behalf of clients by phone, email, letter or by filling in forms

• If required, willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the caseworker training course)

• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to friendship or giving advice

• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability 

• Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments with clients

• Friendly and approachable with some experience of coordinating people and admin

•       Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies. 

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18  

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required?  Yes, Garda Vetting, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces?  You don’t need a military background, just the ability to listen, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English.  If so, this could be the role for you.

Our Branch provides lifelong support to anyone who has ever served, in the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and their dependants. We also give support to those who has been in the Merchant Navy, Seafarers, Fishermen and their dependants, and British Airways staff past and present. Our main role is seeking welfare benevolent grants on behalf of clients who reside in the 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland. They can arrange anything from household goods, funeral costs, mobility aids or other general needs. Legal fees are not considered. We would advise clients to seek state and local benefits by signposting them to the relevant agencies.

What is a caseworker?

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of help they need, this might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit.  Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

Why do we need you?

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan.  Our trained volunteers listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help people navigate life in and beyond military service.  We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us achieve this.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting. Our volunteers are based at home with a yearly AGM invite.

What does this role involve?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time

• Meeting clients and completing a form to assess their circumstances

• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice

• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability

• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients

• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser

• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the

Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background and their dependents

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others

• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community

• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support will you receive?

• On-line or face to face instructor led training and e-learning modules, to prepare you for your voluntary role.

• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.

• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact. •

• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team.

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What skills or experience do you need?

• Good listening and communication skills including written and spoken English

• Respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues

• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills.  Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role  

• Ability to make enquires on behalf of clients by phone, email, letter or by filling in forms

• If required, willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the caseworker training course)

• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to friendship or giving advice

• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability 

• Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments with clients

• Friendly and approachable with some experience of coordinating people and admin

•       Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies. 

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18  

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required?  Yes, Garda Vetting, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer.

Want to make a difference? Could you help us?

New trustees wanted

We are looking for up to three people to be active members of our Board of Trustees.
Together with the other trustees, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders you will help the
Foodbank deliver a non-judgemental and compassionate service, and help us as we
work towards a future where foodbanks are no longer needed. The Trustee may be
asked to take the lead on specific areas of our work, utilising their experience and
skills. We are particularly keen to hear from people who have experience in
fundraising/bid writing, human resources, communications/PR, and property
management.

Our vision

Our vision is a future where our foodbank is no longer needed because people can
afford the essentials and get the support they need when they need it, preventing them
from reaching a point of crisis.

Our mission

Our mission is to provide a compassionate, dignified, and non-judgemental service to
people within our community. We do this by working in partnership with other
organisations to provide holistic support that enables people to find a way out of their
crisis. We work together with partners and the other foodbanks in RCT to identify and
address the root causes of people needing to use our foodbank to alleviate poverty
within our community.
Volunteering is a fantastic way for you to be involved in your local community and
volunteers are at the heart of all that we do as a Foodbank.

Orpheus is seeking a creative professional to join Level Up, our mentoring programme for young disabled adults beginning their journey in the creative industries.

This role is an opportunity to support an emerging artist to build confidence, develop their creative practice, and navigate the industry. We welcome mentors from all creative backgrounds, including design, fashion, film, animation, theatre, writing, music, dance, and more.  On this occasion we are seeking someone with experience in fashion, retail, styling, and voice performance, particularly those specialising in character driven performances for animation, gaming, audio dramas, and related media.

About the role

You’ll work one‑to‑one with a participant, offering guidance, industry insight, and practical support. You’ll help them set goals, explore opportunities, grow their networks, and develop their creative portfolio. We are looking for someone who understands and values the social model of disability and is committed to inclusive practice.

Who we’re looking for

• Experience working within a creative discipline
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• An interest in mentoring and supporting disabled artists
• Experience of portfolio development and/or networking within the creative industries
• Previous mentoring or teaching experience is welcome but not essential

What you’ll gain

• The chance to support new and underrepresented voices
• Opportunities to develop your mentoring skills
• Flexible working
• The chance to contribute to a more inclusive creative sector

Are you friendly, compassionate and understanding?  Are you keen to make a difference and contribute to the impact BCWA makes? 

We’re looking for a friendly face to welcome clients accessing BCWA services and help build a safe and comfortable space for them. If you have strong interpersonal skills and you’re a confident communicator who wants to help survivors, or you’re a reliable and honest volunteer looking to build your skills, we’d love to have you on board as a SPOC Front Desk Volunteer!

Front Desk Volunteers will volunteer within the BCWA SPOC Team, who provide key support to all BCWA services. Volunteers will be a welcoming and friendly face for walk-in clients or clients coming to their appointments, providing relevant information and directing them to the right place. But most importantly, Front Desk Volunteers provide the initial first point of contact for BCWA clients. They help create the comfortable, safe space that is integral to the support we provide, whether that’s through a friendly chat, a cup of coffee or tea, or just being kind. The SPOC team is a busy, sometimes high-pressure environment – our volunteers are integral at our busiest times of the year to ensure our clients and services get the support they need.

Volunteering with our SPOC team on the Front Desk might look like:

• Being that friendly and welcoming first point of contact for clients accessing BCWA services.
• Understanding the reason for a client’s visit and ensuring they are directed to the right place.
• Navigating any relevant information on BCWA systems.
• Offering clients a friendly chat or refreshments and curating a comfortable and safe environment.
• Helping staff and service teams using the space and giving them any information they need.
• Being an advocate for BCWA!

As a BCWA Front Desk Volunteer, you’ll get:

• All the training you need to understand and be prepared for your role with us, so you can use your time with us to grow and learn!
• Regular check-ins and contact with our Volunteer Coordinator as an opportunity to catch up, reflect and feedback on your volunteering experience with us.
• Access to the Wisdom App and the BCWA wellbeing provision.
• Access high quality support and advice from BCWA whenever you need it.
• Your travel to and from sessions expensed.  Lunch paid for if you volunteer for 6 hours or more.
• A reference to support you in your next steps, whether that is a voluntary or paid role elsewhere.
• The knowledge that you’re making a real difference to the lives of victims and survivors of violence and abuse as you volunteer alongside a passionate and experienced team!

Important information for all positions

Black Country Women’s Aid is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults, children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

All posts are subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. It will be necessary for an enhanced disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service for details of any previous criminal convictions.

Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies. The post holder must be female.

Volunteering checks

As a responsible volunteer provider we adhere to safer recruitment practice and all our volunteers are subject to the following checks:

Right to volunteer in the UK

To avoid discrimination we treat all volunteer applicants equally.

We therefore ask all volunteers to confirm they have a Right to Volunteer in the UK.

References

If offered a volunteer role, we will seek 2 references. Ideally, one of these should be your current or last employer, however we understand this isn’t always possible. We ask that one of your referees has known you at least a year.

Examples of references could include:

• a professional from your centre of study, for instance a teacher, lecturer or headteacher
• GP or health visitor
• a character reference from a person who knows you (no familial relations or partners)
• a civil servant from a government agency
• a bank manager

DBS

All volunteer roles are subject to DBS checks at the relevant level.