Graduate volunteer roles

Are you looking for a meaningful and flexible volunteering opportunity that also helps you develop valuable communication and interpersonal skills? Join the Talking Bubble Project and help tackle loneliness through the power of a simple phone call.

Since the pandemic, many befriending services have reduced or closed—but Talking Bubble remains one of the few projects continuing to provide regular, phone-based companionship to people who need it most. Demand for this support remains high, and we are currently looking for compassionate, English-speaking volunteers across the UK.

What is the Talking Bubble Project?

☎︎ Talking Bubble is a phone-based befriending service connecting volunteers with older adults and vulnerable individuals experiencing loneliness and social isolation. Through regular weekly calls, volunteers provide conversation, consistency, and human connection to those who may otherwise feel isolated.

Even a short conversation can have a lasting impact.

Why Volunteer With Us?

✔ Make a genuine difference in someone’s life
✔ Volunteer flexibly from the comfort of your own home
✔ Receive full training, ongoing support, and a reference upon completion
✔ Gain experience in active listening, communication, empathy, and relationship-building
✔ Opportunity for reflective learning and experience relevant to helping professions

This role may particularly appeal to students or graduates interested in psychology, counselling, mental health, social care, or related fields who are seeking meaningful experience alongside their studies or professional development.

Where appropriate, we are also happy to provide feedback, complete placement documentation, or support reports/forms required by universities or training providers.

What You’ll Need

✅ No previous experience required—just empathy, reliability, and a willingness to listen
✅ Volunteers must complete Safeguarding Adults Level 2 training and undergo a DBS check (both provided free of charge)
✅ Must be a UK resident

How to Get Involved

Apply now via the CharityJob website or contact us directly for more information.

Together, we can keep connection alive—one call at a time.

About Quilombo UK

Quilombo UK is a social justice organisation dedicated to inspiring individuals to "See, Think, Behave and Speak Differently" about equality, diversity, and inclusion. We create engaging experiences—ranging from our Beyond Bias training to our "Voices for All" podcasts—that raise awareness and empower unheard voices within our diverse communities.

By joining us, you will play a pivotal role in our Professional Development Programme (PDP), which supports career changers and newcomers to the UK in bridging employment gaps and tackling discrimination in the job market. We are currently working towards SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) certification to provide formal accreditation for the time our team members spend with us. This will allow participants to count their contribution as Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), a vital step for those qualifying via the SQE route. This is a unique opportunity to deliver tangible community impact while directly enhancing the employability and professional standing of legal professionals.

Head of Department (Legal)

The Opportunity

This position offers the opportunity for a career step-up, providing experience in managing legal teams and departmental operations within a social justice framework. In this Head of Department capacity, you will gain the leadership credentials and strategic oversight necessary to advance your professional trajectory while ensuring every individual we support is empowered to achieve their full potential.

Role Purpose

The Head of Department (Legal) oversees a team of dedicated legal professionals and graduates who operate in a capacity similar to paralegals. You will bridge the gap between Directors and the legal team, turning high-level objectives into actionable legal support plans while ensuring the highest standards of professional conduct and social justice advocacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight: Developing and managing the legal department’s roadmap to support Quilombo UK’s social justice initiatives.

• Team Supervision: Overseeing the work of legal graduates, many of whom are working towards their LLM (Master of Laws), ensuring their contributions are technically sound and ethically grounded.

• Departmental Leadership: Coaching the legal team to maintain 100% project visibility and ensuring all work meets the rigorous standards required for future SRA accreditation.

• Social Justice Advocacy: Managing caseloads and research projects that tackle systemic inequalities and discrimination within the community.

• Operational Control: Maintaining 100% visibility of all legal tasks via project management tools and providing weekly reports to Directors on risks, progress, and Work in Progress (WIP).

Additional Professional Benefits

• Career Development: A full CV and profile review conducted by our Talent Acquisition and Learning & Development teams.

• Operational Support: Access to the services of the Legal, Graphic Design, PR, and Production teams for up to 10 hours per month for professional or departmental support.

• Proactive Recruitment: Use of the Talent Acquisition team to actively search out new roles and opportunities via industry portals and LinkedIn.

Financial Incentives

• 15% Profit Share: A share of the commission for work carried out, divided among individuals at the HoD level for specific tasks.

• 10% Business Development: An additional commission if new work or clients are brought into the organisation independently by the HoD.

Requirements

• A strong legal background (GDL, or equivalent) with a deep commitment to social justice.

• Experience in a supervisory or management role, ideally overseeing paralegals or junior legal researchers.

• A clear understanding of the SRA regulatory framework and the requirements for Qualifying Work Experience (QWE).

• Excellent analytical, drafting, and communication skills.

• This is a 100% remote-only position.

Selection Process

• Informal interview.

• Requirement of two professional references

Volunteer Physio / Sports Therapist – Supercharge Your CV with KUWFC!

Imagine being at the heart of South London’s women’s football revolution. Kenningwell United Women’s Football Club (KUWFC) isn’t just a team—it’s a movement. As a dynamic, non-profit club competing in National League Tier 7, KUWFC opens the doors to football for women of every background, championing inclusion, wellbeing, and community spirit.

This is where ambition meets opportunity.
Volunteer with KUWFC and you’ll step into an environment buzzing with energy and innovation. Here, you work side-by-side with ex-Chelsea professionals, connect with elite clubs like Crystal Palace and London City Lionesses, and immerse yourself in cutting-edge athlete monitoring using Kubios and Elite HRV systems.

Why KUWFC? Because here, you don’t just build your resume—you build your legacy.

Network with top-tier professionals and learn from the best

Master practical skills in injury prevention, sports rehab, and player wellbeing

Make a real impact in women’s sport and community health

Shape the future of football, bringing your passion to a fast-paced, ambitious club

Earn references and experience that will propel your career forward

We seek passionate Physios and Sports Therapists—students, graduates, or anyone ready to break into sports health. KUWFC is your gateway to hands-on experience, professional growth, and a chance to change lives through football.

Ready to stand out? Ready to make history?
Apply now and join Kenningwell United Women’s Football Club—where your dedication transforms both players and your own career.

Volunteer Journalist – Supercharge Your CV with KUWFC!

Are you ready to capture the drama, passion, and power of women’s football? Kenningwell United Women’s Football Club (KUWFC) isn’t just a team—it’s a movement. As a dynamic, non-profit club competing in National League Tier 7, KUWFC is dedicated to making football accessible to women of every background, championing inclusion, wellbeing, and community engagement.

Why Volunteer as a Journalist with KUWFC?

Tell the stories of South London’s rising stars and the trailblazing women who are changing the game
Work alongside ex-Chelsea professionals, and connect with elite clubs like Crystal Palace and London City Lionesses (National Super League)

Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge sports tech and analytics** (Kubios and Elite HRV systems)—add depth to your reporting and CV
-Build your network in the world of football and media

-Receive professional references and enhance your CV for future journalism, media, or sports roles

At KUWFC, you’ll be embedded in a fast-paced, ambitious club where every match, every training session, and every player has a story. Capture our triumphs, document our journey, and help inspire the next generation of female footballers.

Who We’re Looking For
- Students or recent graduates in journalism, media, sports reporting, or related fields
- Creative, enthusiastic storytellers with a passion for women’s football and community sport
- Confident communicators, eager to learn and grow
- Able to volunteer up to 3 hours per week (flexible around your schedule)

What You’ll Get:
- Flexible volunteering that fits your studies and life
- A supportive, welcoming club environment
- Real-world experience in sports journalism and media
- References and portfolio pieces to launch your career
- The chance to be part of a vibrant, growing women’s football community

Ready to join the front lines of women’s football and make your voice heard?
Email us a brief note about your experience and your CV!

Kenningwell United WFC welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds. Help us tell our story—and inspire the next generation!

Location: Cofradía, Cortés, Honduras - On-site

Start Date: 1 August 2026

Commitment: 1 year

The Opportunity:

Join BECA (Bilingual Education for Central America) in a high-impact teaching role!

BECA is a non-profit working for the benefit of underprivileged children in Honduras; all our teaching positions are voluntary, although we provide monthly "food stipend" of USD 300 as well as accommodation.

This job is hands-on and implemented on-site in Honduras!

Experience Level: All backgrounds welcome! Serve a Local Community, Make a Global Impact

At BECA, we believe that education is the most powerful tool to combat poverty and provide the next generation of Hondurans with the skills they need to thrive in their home country. We are looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join our community of teachers.

What You’ll Do

●Provide high-quality bilingual education to Honduran youth.

●Foster a supportive, engaging classroom environment.

●Collaborate with a diverse team of international and local educators.

●Engage deeply with the local community to build lasting cross-cultural relationships.

Why Join the BECA Family?

●Comprehensive Training: You don't need a teaching degree. We equip you with the tools, training, and ongoing support you need to succeed.

●Cultural Immersion: Live and work in the heart of Honduras. Practice your Spanish daily and become a true member of the community.

●Professional Growth: Strengthen your resume and gain invaluable international work experience.

●Supportive Team: Join a community that has placed over 250 dedicated fellow-teachers in the last 20 years. You are never alone in this journey.

●Adventure: Use your time off to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Honduras and Central America.

We Are Looking For

Anyone with a desire to impact social change. We value diversity in experience! Our teaching staff is often comprised of:

●Recent college graduates looking for purpose.

●Marketing professionals, lawyers, or retirees looking to give back.

●Educators wanting to expand their global perspective.

Key Responsibilities

●Deliver engaging bilingual instruction to primary or secondary students

●Create a safe, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment

●Collaborate with international and local educators

●Participate actively in school and community life

●Build meaningful cross-cultural relationships with students and families

Qualifications

●Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional/life experience

●Interest in education, youth development, or social impact

●Openness to living and working in a cross-cultural environment

●Knowledge of English as native language

●Spanish helpful but not required (willingness to learn expected)

This is more than a teaching position, it is an opportunity to live with purpose while contributing to educational equity.

Ready to change your life and theirs? Apply today to join a community devoted to equity and education.

Chair of Trustees – Hidayah

Do you want to make a real difference in people’s lives, lead a passionate team, and help shape the future of an impactful community organisation? Join Hidayah as our chair of trustees in this volunteer-based role.

Hidayah is a volunteer-led organisation supporting LGBTQ+ Muslims through community support, advocacy, education, and wellbeing initiatives. It creates safe, inclusive spaces where people can connect, feel empowered, and have their voices heard, while promoting equality and positive change across the UK and beyond.

Purpose of the Role

The chair of trustees provides strategic leadership to Hidayah, ensuring the organisation is well-governed, sustainable, and aligned with its mission and values.

Key Responsibilities

The chair will:

• Chair trustee board meetings and the AGM.
• Provide strategic leadership and oversee organisational development.
• Ensure compliance with Hidayah’s constitution, policies, and governance procedures.
• Support the implementation of the annual Strategic Plan.
• Oversee policy development, safeguarding, and organisational compliance.
• Support and supervise staff, consultants, or volunteers where required.
• Build partnerships and support fundraising initiatives.
• Represent Hidayah externally and promote its mission and activities.
• Contribute to the annual report and organisational administration.
• Act as a bank signatory where required.

Commitment Expected

Trustees are expected to:

• Attend trustee meetings and key planning meetings.
• Support Hidayah events and fundraising activities.
• Engage with emails and communications regularly.
• Maintain accurate organisational records and shared systems.
• Uphold Hidayah’s values and code of conduct.
• Serve until the next AGM, subject to a six-month probation period.
• Minimum commitment of 4–5 hours per week, with additional time required during busy periods or key organisational activities.

Person Specification

Essential Knowledge & Experience

• Strong understanding of charity governance, trustee responsibilities, and voluntary sector best practice.
• Proven leadership and strategic planning experience, ideally within a charity or community organisation.
• Experience leading and supporting teams, volunteers, or projects in a collaborative environment.
• Ability to operate effectively at both strategic and operational levels.
• Experience building partnerships, supporting organisational growth, and contributing to long-term sustainability.
• Understanding of safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion within community-focused organisations.

Essential Skills & Attributes

· Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.

· Ability to chair meetings and support effective teamwork.

· Good organisational and strategic planning abilities.

· Strong interpersonal and people management skills.

· Understanding of safeguarding, equality, diversity, and confidentiality.

· Good administrative and IT skills.

· Ability to work independently and use initiative in a volunteer-led environment.

Benefits of the Role

• Opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact in LGBTQ+ Muslim communities.
• High-level leadership experience in charity governance and strategic decision-making.
• Professional development in leadership, board management, and organisational strategy.
• Valuable networking opportunities with community leaders, partners, and stakeholders.
• Experience working with a passionate, diverse, and values-driven team.
• Opportunity to shape the growth and direction of Hidayah.

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

The Community Food Hub at Children With Voices runs because of people like you.

This is our entry-level food co-op role — no experience needed, no qualifications required, just a willingness to roll up your sleeves and be part of something that genuinely feeds and supports Hackney families.

You'll be working alongside a warm, welcoming team in our co-op space, helping to make sure that every family who comes through our doors leaves with what they need and feels respected and valued.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Sort and organise food donations as they come in

• Pack food parcels for families with care and accuracy

• Help set up and pack down the co-op space before and after sessions

• Welcome community members as they arrive and make them feel at home

• Assist with basic stock checks and flagging when items are running low

• Keep the co-op floor clean, tidy, and well-organised throughout the session

• Follow all food hygiene and health and safety guidelines at all times

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Friendly, warm, and non-judgemental towards all families

• Willing to get stuck in with practical, hands-on tasks

• Reliable — families and the team count on volunteers showing up

• Basic awareness of food hygiene (or willingness to complete a short online course)

• Respectful and kind in all interactions with families and team members

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Any previous experience volunteering at a food bank, community kitchen, or similar setting

• A food hygiene certificate (Level 1 or 2) — though not required

• Additional languages spoken (Hackney is a wonderfully diverse community!)

• Experience working or volunteering with families or in a community setting

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• The reward of making a direct, immediate difference to families in Hackney every week

• Support to obtain a food hygiene certificate

• A professional reference from our team

• A genuine insight into grassroots community food provision

• A welcoming team and a space where your contribution truly matters

VSO – Uzbekistan Education Project

International Volunteering Opportunity: English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Teacher (Aug 2026 – June 2027)

About VSO: 

VSO is a global development organisation that uses the power of volunteering to tackle poverty and inequality. Rather than providing aid, VSO works in partnership with governments and local institutions to strengthen skills and systems so that sustainable change continues long after a project ends. Volunteers are placed at the centre of community-led development to empower the most marginalised people.  

Project Summary

The Government of Uzbekistan is prioritising improved English language learning across the education system as part of national development reforms. In partnership with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, VSO will place experienced and passionate volunteer teachers in public secondary schools to strengthen English language teaching and learning outcomes.  

Why this opportunity is unique?  

This is more than a teaching role — it is an opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful and lasting impact on education reform

• Gain valuable international experience in a multicultural environment.

• Be part of a global movement for positive change

• By supporting teachers and students to reach their full potential, you will leave a legacy that continues long after your placement ends.

Role Summary – EFL Teacher (English Language-Teacher)

Location: Public secondary schools in Uzbekistan Duration: 10–11 months (August 2026 – June 2027)  

Key responsibilities include:

• Delivering interactive English classes to students aged 11–16

• Mentoring and coaching local teachers

• Leading extracurricular language activities and English clubs

• Integrating technology and modern teaching methodologies in the classroom  

Eligibility Criteria

• Graduate in Education / TESOL / Linguistics or related fields

• Final-year undergraduate or master’s student (who completes the course by July 2026)

• Fluent in English language (minimum C1 level)

• CELTA / TEFL / TESOL / DELTA preferred

Allowance, Costs & Support

There are no programme fees for volunteers. Fully funded project, all cost covered by VSO, including:

• Monthly living allowance equivalent to a local teacher’s salary

• Private accommodation near the workplace

• Return international flights, Visa, vaccinations & DBS -onboarding costs

• Comprehensive medical insurance and 24/7 mental health support

• Access to VSO’s global learning platform and continuous professional development

• In-country support from VSO for the full duration of the placement  

VSO has zero tolerance of abuse and exploitation of vulnerable people. We will expect all our employees/ volunteers to commit to protecting children, young people and vulnerable adults from harm and abide by our safeguarding policy.

All successful candidates will have enhanced criminal background check done during onboarding 

Application Closing Date: 7th June 2026

Our small friendly Charity Shop in South Westminster

As well as being an important source of revenue for the Centre, the shop on Horseferry Road is the public face of the Cardinal Hume Centre to the residents and workers of Westminster. It can be a very busy environment with lots of regular customers. You will be part of a friendly, international team!  You will receive excellent support and opportunities to learn team skills and customer service.  You can obtain a reference for future employers.

How does this role make a difference?

You will be part of the fundraising team, raising funds to support the work of the Cardinal Hume Centre and promoting the work of the Centre to the public. Typically, the Charity Shop raises in the region of £50,000 per year.

What will you be doing?

Flexibility will be given where possible, but in general, volunteers will undertake the following tasks as part of this role:

· Customer service on the till

· Cashing up at the end of the day and walking the takings round to the reception and handing in to Finance Team

· Greeting and helping customers

· Replenishing the stock on the shop floor

· Sorting donations

· Helping present top items in window display and around the shop

· Promoting the work of the Centre to the public

Want to increase your skills in retail?

If you want to develop in this role, we are keen to support you.  There are more responsibilities you can take on in the shop, for example; opening and closing the shop, cashing up at the end of the day and helping with the induction of new volunteers.  Let us know if this interests you.  We also have employment advisors who can provide employment support.  Furthermore, if you want to expand your experience in the voluntary sector, you can combine your role in the shop with a volunteer role elsewhere in the organisation.

What are we looking for?

No special qualifications are needed to work in our shop, as relevant training will be given, however, we will be asking for the following qualities:

· Over 16+

· Good spoken English needed – at least Entry Level 3

· The ability to contribute to a positive team culture and atmosphere

· Be able to provide a friendly, high-quality service to customers

· A commitment to equal opportunities and to treating all individuals who visit or work in the shop with dignity and respect

· Physically fit - able to lift light bags and boxes and to comfortably use the stairs between the shop floor and the stock room.  Manual handling training will be given.

What is the time commitment?

The shop opening hours are 10am – 4.30pm, Monday – Friday.  A full or half day (10 – 1pm or 1 – 4.30pm) is ideal, but we are flexible and are grateful for even a couple of hours help each week. Ideally, volunteers will commit to a period of at least 4 months.

How will you be supported?

· You will be supported and trained in all areas of retail and customer service by the Charity Shop Manager and the Assistant Shop Manager.

· You will receive a Centre induction from a Volunteer Coordinator

· You will be reimbursed for reasonable and agreed ‘out-of-pocket’ expenses such as travel and also lunch if working a full day.

· For volunteers who stay for more than three months, we are happy to provide a reference.

We need volunteers in this role to help gather as much data as possible as part of our Wild Magic project, so we can see the way that new management techniques will impact upon wildlife, and how it contributes to The Owen Smith Charitable Trust; monitoring the changes in the numbers and types of species found at Wild Magic, and the changes in habitat provision.

We are aiming to undertake surveys and monitoring relating to birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and plant species. By volunteering you will be helping us to gain a better understanding of the species and habitats within the project area, and how the species, their populations and the habitat changes in relation to the management practices.

What this role entails

• Help conduct wildlife and plant surveys
• Assist with ongoing monitoring
• Adhere to safety and regulations guidelines

Qualifications, experience and skills needed

• Interest in environmental conservation and biodiversity
• Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Basic knowledge of native plants and wildlife preferred
• Ability to work well in a team
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Patience, attention to detail, and willingness to see a survey through

Benefits

Exciting opportunity to monitor wildlife and contribute to evidence-based conservation, while gaining real-world experience. We will offer training to ensure you are prepared.

About Us

The New Normal are a growing charity whose mission is to change the way we discuss our grief, mental health and wellbeing in open and honest spaces. We believe that nobody should ever feel isolated, and there is always someone who will relate to your story. “If there’s one, there’s two.”

We run free virtual and in-person peer support meetings for adults facing life’s difficult moments, particularly bereavement. 

The Opportunity

Are you passionate about using social media for good? This is your chance to use your skills to support people through one of life's most difficult experiences.

You'll help us spread our message that nobody should face grief alone, connect people to our free virtual and in-person peer support meetings, and grow an online community built on openness and compassion. You'll receive regular check-ins and guidance from a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator, free safeguarding training, and a reference letter upon completion, all while building real, meaningful experience in the rewarding charity sector.

This role is ideal for students, recent graduates, or career changers looking to build experience in charity communications or digital media.

What You'll Do

• Create social media posts in line with our brand tone: inclusive, warm, and sensitive to the subject of bereavement
• Schedule and post updates about weekly peer support meetings and events
• Help plan simple campaigns or awareness posts around key dates (Mental Health Awareness Week, Grief Awareness Week, World Suicide Prevention Day, etc.)
• Contribute creative ideas to help our mission reach more people online
• Communicate regularly with your coordinator and flag any challenges early

What We're Looking For

• Someone who can commit to the full 6-month term (potential to extend)
• Reliable, communicative, and respectful of sensitive subject matter
• An interest in mental health, bereavement support, or nonprofit communications
• Confidence using social media (Instagram)
• Comfortable working independently with light supervision and taking initiative

What You'll Gain

• Valuable experience in charity communications and social media management
• Free safeguarding, peer support and Suicide First Aid (lite) training worth £500 (a great addition to your CV)
• A reference letter or LinkedIn recommendation upon successful completion
• Regular mentorship, support, and a welcoming volunteer community
• The chance to make a genuine difference for people navigating challenging circumstances

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive volunteer community and actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from global majority and gender marginalised groups.

Purpose of the Role

To join the board as a Volunteer Finanical Director, bringing governance knowledge and strategic thinking to strengthen board effectiveness, uphold the CIC's obligations, and ensure all decisions are made in the best interests of the community we serve.

Role and Responsibilities

1. Guide the Board

• Attend two to three board meetings per month, virtual or hybrid, and come prepared to contribute
• Help ensure decisions are made properly, recorded, and followed through
• Review and respond to decisions outside of meetings within 48 to 72 hours
• Support the review of policies and raise questions when something needs attention
• Support the development of projects and programmes by contributing ideas, strategic thinking, critical insight, and creative, innovative approaches, while bringing energy, boldness, and enthusiasm.

2. Keep Us on Track

• Contribute to strategic decision-making, policy approval, and organisational oversight
• Monitor organisational performance and support the Managing Director in delivery accountability
• Flag risks early and help ensure resources are used well and in line with our mission
• Keep the needs of the communities we serve at the centre of every decision

3. Be a Critical Friend

• Challenge and support the Managing Director with honesty and care
• Ask the questions that need to be asked, even when it is uncomfortable
• Help us grow in a way that is sustainable and grounded in our values

4. Champion What Matters

• Be an ambassador for Zion Wellness in how you show up and speak about us
• Participate in bi-directional mentorship exchanges with young people on the programme
• Ensure safeguarding, inclusion, and community interest are never an afterthought

What We Are Looking For

You will bring:

• A strong professional background in finance, budgeting, and strategic financial planning
• Confident, values-led leadership with the ability to represent the CIC's mission at board level
• A background in leadership, social impact, or community outreach
• Experience in creative direction, entrepreneurship, or project leadership
• Understanding of organisational strategy, stakeholder engagement, and partnership development
• A genuine commitment to systemic change and the communities we serve

It would be great if you also have:

• Governance experience such as trustee, governor, or board-level involvement, though this is not essential
• Experience in a charity, CIC, or grassroots organisation
• Training and induction will be provided for the right candidate

Please Note:  

This role is open to graduate and university students (aged 18+) who are looking to gain real leadership and governance experience. If you are early in your career and passionate about community impact, we want to hear from you. Ongoing support will be provided.

Sea Cadets Leith, based in Prince of Wales Docks, is currently looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to join our committee team. Whether you chair the committee, run our social media, or help us fundraise on an ad-hoc basis, you’ll be supporting young people to access opportunities to create life-long memories and friendships.

At Leith we aim to give young people an experience that will help them grow into the person they want to be in a safe and friendly environment. We offer a range of different activities from sailing, windsurfing and powerboating - to rock climbing, camping, and music - plus, so much more!

Leith is a long-established Sea Cadet Unit that has provided life-changing opportunities for many young people. We currently have 24 cadets who come from all over the area. Our cadets come from all walks of life, with some experiencing adverse childhood events, and limited access to social youth groups. Without support from volunteers like you, our charity cannot provide the adventure, community, and opportunities that young people experience through the Sea Cadets.

The primary purpose of the CFAV is to assist in the development of young people as
Individuals and active citizens by providing safe and rewarding training, direction and guidance.
The secondary purposes of a CFAV are:
- Maintain the Sea Cadet Corps (SCC) values
- Assist the Unit Training Officer (UTO) to plan a varied training programme.
- Safely and securely maintain the unit’s resources and equipment.

We will support you to understand your role, how to do it and the difference you make to the SCC
- Understand the skills and experience you have, as well as your aspirations for volunteering
- Provide you with an induction, ongoing support and training to undertake your volunteer role
- Provide regular updates about any developments in the charity that are relevant to you
- Value your contributions and providing you with potential opportunities to progress

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

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

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

* Preparing wood for resale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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