Housing and homelessness volunteer roles

We're looking for enthusiastic and community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team at our Shaftesbury Road charity shop in Bath. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or support a great cause, there’s a place for you with us.

Julian House is a charity dedicated to making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. We run several projects and every year we help thousands of people out of homelessness, into employment, away from domestic abuse, and more.

Our Charity Shops recycle used or unwanted items that people have donated and make sure they go to a good home which reduces waste and helps the environment.

No two days are the same – you could be:

• Running the till and delivering fantastic customer service
• Sorting donations and preparing them for display
• Keeping the shop looking its best
• Steaming and presenting clothes beautifully
• Pricing items to reflect their true value

What’s in it for you?

Volunteering with us is a great way to:

• Build skills in customer service, retail, and admin
• Boost your confidence and meet new people
• Be part of a friendly and welcoming team
• Make a real difference in your community

We're flexible around your schedule, just a few hours a week can make a big impact! Out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed, if agreed in advance, and you’ll have a dedicated Volunteer Manager to support you throughout your journey with Julian House.

We're looking for enthusiastic and community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team at our charity shop in Market Place, Frome. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or support a great cause, there’s a place for you with us.

Julian House is a charity dedicated to making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. We run several projects and every year we help thousands of people out of homelessness, into employment, away from domestic abuse, and more.

Our Charity Shops recycle used or unwanted items that people have donated and make sure they go to a good home which reduces waste and helps the environment.

No two days are the same – you could be:

• Running the till and delivering fantastic customer service
• Sorting donations and preparing them for display
• Keeping the shop looking its best
• Steaming and presenting clothes beautifully
• Pricing items to reflect their true value

What’s in it for you?

Volunteering with us is a great way to:

• Build skills in customer service, retail, and admin
• Boost your confidence and meet new people
• Be part of a friendly and welcoming team
• Make a real difference in your community

We're flexible around your schedule, just a few hours a week can make a big impact! Out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed, if agreed in advance, and you’ll have a dedicated Volunteer Manager to support you throughout your journey with Julian House.

We're looking for enthusiastic and community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team at our charity shop in The Brittox, Devizes. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or support a great cause, there’s a place for you with us.

Julian House is a charity dedicated to making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. We run several projects and every year we help thousands of people out of homelessness, into employment, away from domestic abuse, and more.

Our Charity Shops recycle used or unwanted items that people have donated and make sure they go to a good home which reduces waste and helps the environment.

No two days are the same – you could be:

• Running the till and delivering fantastic customer service
• Sorting donations and preparing them for display
• Keeping the shop looking its best
• Steaming and presenting clothes beautifully
• Pricing items to reflect their true value

What’s in it for you?

Volunteering with us is a great way to:

• Build skills in customer service, retail, and admin
• Boost your confidence and meet new people
• Be part of a friendly and welcoming team
• Make a real difference in your community

We're flexible around your schedule, just a few hours a week can make a big impact! Out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed, if agreed in advance, and you’ll have a dedicated Volunteer Manager to support you throughout your journey with Julian House.

Friends of Greatwood and Horseclose Communtiy Centre are looking for friendly, community‑minded volunteers who want to play an active part in making events at Greatwood and Horseclose Community Centre welcoming, enjoyable, and well‑run. You don’t need previous event experience just enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to get stuck in.

This role supports the smooth planning, preparation, and delivery of a variety of in‑person events at the community centre. Event Support Volunteers will help create a warm, accessible, and positive experience for all attendees, while assisting staff and other volunteers with the practical tasks that make events successful.

We're looking for enthusiastic and community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team at our charity shop in Bank Street, Melksham. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or support a great cause, there’s a place for you with us.

Julian House is a charity dedicated to making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. We run several projects and every year we help thousands of people out of homelessness, into employment, away from domestic abuse, and more.

Our Charity Shops recycle used or unwanted items that people have donated and make sure they go to a good home which reduces waste and helps the environment.

No two days are the same – you could be:

• Running the till and delivering fantastic customer service
• Sorting donations and preparing them for display
• Keeping the shop looking its best
• Steaming and presenting clothes beautifully
• Pricing items to reflect their true value

What’s in it for you?

Volunteering with us is a great way to:

• Build skills in customer service, retail, and admin
• Boost your confidence and meet new people
• Be part of a friendly and welcoming team
• Make a real difference in your community

We're flexible around your schedule, just a few hours a week can make a big impact! Out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed, if agreed in advance, and you’ll have a dedicated Volunteer Manager to support you throughout your journey with Julian House.

We're looking for enthusiastic and community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team at our charity shop in The Shires, Trowbridge. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or support a great cause, there’s a place for you with us.

Julian House is a charity dedicated to making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. We run several projects and every year we help thousands of people out of homelessness, into employment, away from domestic abuse, and more.

Our Charity Shops recycle used or unwanted items that people have donated and make sure they go to a good home which reduces waste and helps the environment.

No two days are the same – you could be:

• Running the till and delivering fantastic customer service
• Sorting donations and preparing them for display
• Keeping the shop looking its best
• Steaming and presenting clothes beautifully
• Pricing items to reflect their true value

What’s in it for you?

Volunteering with us is a great way to:

• Build skills in customer service, retail, and admin
• Boost your confidence and meet new people
• Be part of a friendly and welcoming team
• Make a real difference in your community

We're flexible around your schedule, just a few hours a week can make a big impact! Out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed, if agreed in advance, and you’ll have a dedicated Volunteer Manager to support you throughout your journey with Julian House.

Client Support Volunteer - Manchester Schools Project

Do you want to make a difference to someone experiencing the housing emergency?

Information about the role

School staff are working hard to support the thousands of families living in insecure and unsuitable housing in Manchester. Shelter’s @HOME project helps fight for secure and stable homes by working families who would benefit from early intervention to prevent them from becoming homeless and/or mitigate the impact of homelessness on their education. 

Your role will be to support the @HOME coordinator during drop-ins for parents in various school locations.

Location: Various locations across Manchester

Suggested contribution: Two half days per week

Availability: Fridays (Flexible)

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now by clicking ‘fill in an application’ or read on more for details.

Main activities may include:

• Greeting people as they arrive to the drop-in
• Completing registration forms with people as they arrive
• Signposting to appropriate agencies and giving out information
• Running checks with people to assess benefit eligibility
• Being there for people if they need someone to listen
• Translating for clients if possible (common languages: Urdu, Arabic, Somali)

This role fights the housing emergency by supporting people who are struggling with housing and bringing them one step closer to a safe home.

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering.

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity.

Your skills and experience

We’d love the volunteer in this role to have good communication skills and be confident with using IT. But the most important thing is that you are friendly and caring, with enthusiasm for fighting the housing emergency.

Supporting you

• You will be provided with an induction into your role, access to relevant learning and a copy of our volunteer handbook.
• The role, including learning and communications, are flexible, so can be tailored so they best suit your needs and preferences.
• You will be able to claim reasonable volunteering expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy. Where financial circumstances would be a barrier to volunteering, we may be able to offer these funds in advance.
• You will be able to access our volunteer support package, including our colleague assistance programme and Shelter’s network of mental health first aiders.

Next steps

You can apply for this role by clicking ‘fill in an application’. If you need to apply by an alternative method, please contact us to see what options are available.

We will then get back to you about your application. Shortlisted applicants will have a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further.

Upon offer of role, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions and complete a basic level Criminal Record Check. Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can’t volunteer with us. We will have a conversation with you to discuss the convictions in relation to the role you have applied for. Sometimes it may limit the ways you can get involved. Please contact us if you require more information.

We're looking for enthusiastic and community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team at our Walcot Street charity shop in Bath. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or support a great cause, there’s a place for you with us.

Julian House is a charity dedicated to making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. We run several projects and every year we help thousands of people out of homelessness, into employment, away from domestic abuse, and more.

Our Charity Shops recycle used or unwanted items that people have donated and make sure they go to a good home which reduces waste and helps the environment.

No two days are the same – you could be:

• Running the till and delivering fantastic customer service
• Sorting donations and preparing them for display
• Keeping the shop looking its best
• Steaming and presenting clothes beautifully
• Pricing items to reflect their true value

What’s in it for you?

Volunteering with us is a great way to:

• Build skills in customer service, retail, and admin
• Boost your confidence and meet new people
• Be part of a friendly and welcoming team
• Make a real difference in your community

We're flexible around your schedule, just a few hours a week can make a big impact! Out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed, if agreed in advance, and you’ll have a dedicated Volunteer Manager to support you throughout your journey with Julian House. 

Help4Homeless is seeking experienced professionals to join our Management Committee (also known as Trustee) and provide strategic governance for our youth-led charity. Committee members guide our direction, ensure proper governance, and help us make informed decisions that maximise our impact.

This is genuinely low commitment. No operational responsibilities, no fundraising targets, no hands-on delivery — just strategic governance and decision-making. One hour a month, and we mean it.

Key responsibilities

• Participate in monthly governance meetings (online or in person)
• Contribute to strategic decision-making and policy development
• Provide expert guidance in your area of professional expertise
• Ensure compliance with charity governance requirements

What we're looking for

• Professionals with business, legal, or financial experience
• People who care about homelessness and want to make a difference
• Good judgement and common sense
• Charity board experience and local Peterborough connections are a bonus

Time commitment

One monthly meeting (1 hour) plus around 10 minutes of reading beforehand. Optionally, join our annual strategy day (2 hours, free lunch included). No hidden obligations.

Why join us

• Apply your professional expertise to meaningful social impact
• Gain valuable charity governance and board experience
• Help shape the strategy and direction of a growing charity
• Collaborate with other dedicated local professionals

Asylum Aid (previously merged with Migrants Resource Centre under Consonant) is, and has long been, a leader in the Immigration and NGO sector: providing high-level legal support to ensure the protection of vulnerable refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. Now, in its 30th year of providing high quality legal and welfare support - our services are needed more than ever.

Through our Westminster Advice Services Partnership (WASP), with Westminster Citizens Advice, Age UK Westminster, DeafPlus and Groundwork London, we are able to provide vital support for the most vulnerable people living in Westminster who are struggling to meet their needs. This partnership allows us to provide important support to those for whom English is not their first language. These individuals often find themselves destitute with money problems, no employment, problems with immigration and housing. The focus of Asylum Aid’s welfare advice team is on migrant and vulnerable communities.  Our assistance can be transformative for individuals, and we are determined to do more to reach and support vulnerable people seeking safety.

Asylum Aid runs a drop-in information hub every Monday, as well as an advice phoneline on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, where Westminster residents can get support and advice in a range of areas, such as employment, housing and immigration. We are looking for a volunteer who speaks one of our community languages (Arabic, Kurdish, Bengali, Tigrinya, Farsi) to support us at the information hub, specifically in administration and data entry. You may also have the opportunity to receiving training in conducting interviews with clients. We particularly encourage residents of Westminster borough and surrounding boroughs to apply.

Volunteers will be trained on the job and will have to opportunity to attend thematic training, as well as receiving on-going support and supervision.

Main tasks and activities

• Responding to client queries
• Answering the telephone
• Assisting and registering clients who come into reception.
• Taking messages for advisers.
• Printing outlook timetable and Advice pro appointments for the day.
• Inputting data in excel and Advice pro.
• Helping advisers with general administrative tasks such as typing letters, photocopying bundles, and telephoning clients, keeping client files or local information up to date, amending stocks of leaflets, taking notes in meetings etc.

Skills and experience needed

• Fluent in written and spoken English
• Ability to speak fluently in a community language (Arabic, Kurdish, Bengali, Tigrinya, Farsi)
• Some understanding and experience of IT systems (Excel, Word etc.) and data entry
• Strong teamwork skills
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing, in person and over the telephone
• Ability to manage time effectively
• Confident when dealing with people
• Friendly and approachable
• Remain calm in stressful situations
• Sensitive to the needs of others
• Open minded and non-judgmental 
• Punctuality and regular attendance
• Willingness to develop, learn new skills and embrace change
• You must be willing to develop a clear understanding of, and commitment to, Equality and Diversity, incorporating this into all aspects of your work
• Westminster residents are particularly encouraged to apply.

As part of this role, you will be responsible for driving a Crisis van to support members with moving into their new homes. This includes transporting their belongings from their current residence to their new accommodation.

You will also be required to assist with loading and unloading items, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is essential, as the role involves manual handling and lifting.

Once recruited you will need to complete our Driver form which will ensure you are on Crisis' insurance and can drive our Van.

Trustee (Voluntary Role) – St John’s Winchester

We’re looking for new Trustees to join the Board of St John’s Winchester, a 900-year-old charity supporting older people to live independently and well in Winchester.

Today, our work includes around 100 almshouse homes and a growing dementia support service, alongside a strong community of residents, volunteers, and staff.

We’re particularly interested in people with experience in:

· Adult health and social care

· Community engagement or development

…but above all, we’re looking for people who care deeply about dignity, wellbeing, and belonging in later life.

You’ll help shape our strategy, support good governance, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the charity.

Approx. 8–10 days per year
Winchester (with some flexibility)
Apply by 28 May 2026

If you’re interested in making a meaningful difference locally, we’d love to hear from you.

Creative Support is a national not-for-profit social care and supported housing provider with charitable status. We deliver personalised care and support for younger and older adults with learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs, physical disabilities and those at risk of homelessness or social exclusion.

Creative Support is governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees with expertise across social care, health, housing, finance, legal and related fields. As our current Chair approaches the end of her term, we are seeking a new Chair with senior social care experience and a strong understanding of commissioning, quality, risk, workforce, regulation and partnership working. The ideal candidate will champion our values and mission and lead with clarity and compassion.

About Creative Support:

We are one of the UK’s largest social care providers, supporting over 6,000 people each year across 70 local authorities and employing around 5,000 staff. With an annual turnover of £197 million, we are also a registered social housing provider with over 1,000 supported housing units and significant housing assets.

Creative Support is an Investor in People Gold employer, a Stonewall Diversity Champion and an inclusive organisation committed to increasing Board representation from BAME, LGBTQ+ and disabled communities, with zero tolerance for discrimination.

Our Mission and Values:

Creative Support promotes independence, inclusion, and wellbeing. We do this by working with the people we support, their families and others to meet individual needs and aspirations in a person-centred way. We provide high quality homes and support, enabling people to say:

- I live my best life in a place I call home

- I feel listened to, respected and valued

- I enjoy choices and rights and have control over my life

- I am supported to feel safe

- I am doing the things that matter to me

- I enjoy relationships with others

- I am connected to my community

- I am supported with my wellbeing

- I feel able to reach my full potential

Our We Care values underpin everything we do at Creative Support. We are: Welcoming, Empowering, Compassionate, Aspirational, Respectful, Effective.

About the Role:

The Chair is responsible for leading the Board, ensuring effective governance, and holding the Chief Executive and Board to account for delivering our mission, vision and strategy. The role involves providing inclusive leadership, ensuring Trustees understand their responsibilities, and working closely with the Executive Team to offer oversight, support and constructive challenge.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with senior-level social care expertise, a commitment to our charitable purpose and person-centred values, and a belief in co-production with the people we support. The Chair must demonstrate vision, sound judgement and an inclusive, respectful leadership style.

The Chair is expected to commit sufficient time to:

- Attend six annual Board meetings, and relevant committee meetings (typically 2–3 hours in duration);

- Prepare thoroughly for meetings, including reading papers in advance;

- Lead the induction, support and supervision of Trustees;

- Undertake appraisal and support of the Chief Executive Officer;

- Act as an ambassador for Creative Support at internal and external events.

- Visit national services and engage with staff, the people who we support, and tenants.

The estimated time commitment for the Chair is approximately 4 days per month/48 days per year, although this may increase in response to organisational needs or during periods of change. Appointments are made for an initial period of 3 years and are subject to an annual appraisal. Terms begin at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting in which the Chair is appointed.

The role of Chair of the Board of Trustees is remunerated in recognition of the significant time, responsibility and contribution required. The current remuneration for the Chair is £12,000 per annum, payable in monthly instalments of £1,000. This payment is taxable and is processed through the organisation’s payroll. Trustees, including the Chair, are appointed as office holders and are therefore neither workers nor employees. Remuneration arrangements are subject to periodic review in line with the organisation’s governance and remuneration policies.

We also pay all reasonable expenses associated with the role, including travel, overnight accommodation, subsistence and child care expenses if needed. Appointment will be made subject to the following satisfactory checks:

- References

- Declarations of Interest

- Fit and Proper Person Check

- Personal Declarations

- Enhanced DBS

- A £1.00 payment for shareholding membership (this can be provided in person when you first attend our Head Office)

We can send you a copy of our most recent Annual Report & Accounts - details on how to request this can be located on this roles listing on our company website or consult the FCA Mutuals Website, type in Creative Support and search under ‘documents’. You will find all previous annual reports and accounts listed and these can be viewed or downloaded at no cost. 

Please note that Creative Support is a Community Benefit Society with charitable status registered with the FCA, not a company or registered charity so you will not be able to access information about Creative Support via Companies House or the Charity Commission.

Recruitment Timeline:

Closing Date for Applications: 13 May 2026

Meet and Greet and Stakeholder interview panel: 17 June 2026

Final panel interviews: 30 June 2026

Offer and recruitment checks: July - August 2026

Co-opt at Board meeting: 10 September 2026

Formal vote at Annual General Meeting: 24 September 2026

Please keep these dates available upon application

Role

Help clients understand and act on problems with debt, benefits, housing, or employment.

Support clients with forms, budgeting, and calls to service providers

Research solutions for clients’ problems and explain options clearly.

Our volunteer advisers talk to clients over the phone, face to face and

online to explore what issues they’ve come for help with and find

information about possible options. Advisers then help clients to

understand the information, and support them to take action.

You’ll also record case details on our computer system and spot common issues. The role offers full training and the chance to develop useful skills while making a difference in your community.

Commitment: 8 hours/week (flexible)

What you gain: Communication skills, hands-on experience and full training and support provided.

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