Information and advice service and volunteer manager volunteer roles

We are looking for up to ten UK university students to join our volunteer Student Ambassadors team and help Ygam achieve its social purpose by reaching out to students at university. This will be achieved by advising Ygam on the needs of students, supporting with content development, organising activities at your campus, and join us at events to raise awareness of gaming and gambling harms.

We are seeking individuals who are outgoing, with a confident personality. You will enjoy engaging with other students and be able to advise us on the experiences of students with regards to gaming and gambling. 

Many people affected by terminal illness don't realise the support available to them until they need it.

By becoming a Community Ambassador Volunteer, you can help change that.

Local communities play a vital role in supporting people through some of life's most challenging times. You can help strengthen those community connections by sharing information about Marie Curie and raising awareness of the support available to anyone affected by terminal illness.

This is a flexible role that can fit around work, study, family life or retirement.

Whether you visit a local library, community centre, GP surgery, leisure centre or community event, you'll be building relationships, sharing information about Marie Curie and helping strengthen community awareness. (

Availability: Volunteer around your existing commitments

Time: Just 2-3 hours per month

Location: Within north East Derbyshire.

Volunteers are not expected to travel extensively across the area and can choose opportunities that are local and convenient to them.

Criteria: 18 years of age or over

What you'll do:

• Share Marie Curie information within your local community

• Display leaflets and resources in community venues

• Attend occasional local events on behalf of Marie Curie

• Help raise awareness of services and support available

• Signpost people to Marie Curie's website, support line and resources

• Identify opportunities to connect with new community groups and organisations

Why you'd be a great fit:

• Friendly and approachable

• Comfortable talking to people from different backgrounds and experiences

• Passionate about supporting their local community

• Organised and reliable

• Able to work independently while being part of a supportive team

• Knowledgeable about your local area or interested in learning more about it

Why volunteer with Marie Curie?

• Make a real difference in your local community

• Be part of a nationally recognised charity making a lasting impact

• Help people access the right support

• Volunteer flexibly around your existing commitments

• Receive training and ongoing support

• Meet new people and build connections locally

• Out-of-pocket travel and expenses reimbursed

• Access to discounts on shopping, travel, entertainment and more

• 15% discount in-store at our Marie Curie Shops (Terms & Conditions apply)

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances
• providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Volunteer Role: Community Group Volunteer

Location: Across Wales

Frequency: A few hours once a month

Reporting to: Adoption Community Manager

Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS

Community groups are facilitated face to face or virtual meetings/events run by community group coordinators who are volunteers. The groups are run to offer local networking, support, information, advice, guidance and a sense of community for adoption UK members.

The role of a community group coordinator is to plan, organise, facilitate and network meeting and events both face to face and virtually for local adoption UK members. 

The groups are open to prospective adopters/ adopters awaiting a match and adopters with children. Meet ups are often held monthly although the frequency is dependent on the availability of the community group coordinator. 

What you will be doing   

·Plan dates for the community group meetings.

·Inform the Community officer and manager so the admin and booking link can be created for the group.

·Attend the group meetings, welcome the attendees, remind everyone at the start of the meeting about safeguarding and confidentiality, chair the meeting and provide a listening ear and potential signposting to the attendees.

·Ensure Adoption UK’s safeguarding policies and procedures are followed.

·After the meeting, send an attendance list to staff at Adoption UK.

The Skills and Experience you need  

·Personal experience, and understanding of the issues facing adoptive parents 

·Caring 

·Understanding 

·Good listening and communication skills 

·Good understanding of the importance of confidentiality

·Ability to respect other people’s differences and choices  

·Some IT and administration skills   

·Confidence to work independently and the ability to recognise when to ask for support or raise concerns if required 

What’s in it for you

·Meet new people and be part of helping adopted young people to thrive  

·Access to the online family members area and the opportunity to attend relevant training and development opportunities  

·Use and develop your communication, organisational and people skills  

·Receive an induction, relevant training, the support you need to carry out the role and agreed out-of-pocket expenses  

Safeguarding role requirements: All applicants will be subject to an Enhanced DBS

Do you want to make a real difference?

At Oxfam, we're not just selling pre-loved items and unique finds – we're working together to build a radically better world. With your help, we will turn pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.

Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:

Be a Second-hand Superhero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring collections – retail therapy with a purpose!

Increase Your Skills: If you have a particular interest, you can build on it to gain valuable retail experience to add to your CV, such as merchandising, customer service, and teamwork.

Find Your Community: Meet like-minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.

Flexibility: We know life gets busy. That's why we offer flexible volunteering options. A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!

What happens next?

After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do help out. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!

Role description for Safeguarding Champion (Voluntary role)
“It’s been a life-changing experience. Last week I read a book to my grandson. I never read to my children because I couldn’t.” Peter, from Read Easy Poole

Read Easy provides free, confidential, one to-one reading coaching for adults who struggle with reading, through a network of volunteer groups. Read Easy groups are changing the lives of individual adults across the country by providing them with the support they need to learn to read, and in turn opening doors for them to all sorts of new opportunities in life. You can read about the difference Read Easy makes here on our website.

Outline of the Safeguarding Champion role
As the Safeguarding Champion you will ensure that your group implements, understands and works within the Read Easy UK Safeguarding Policy and organising DBS checks when necessary.
How we will support you
You will be provided with the Management Team Handbook, training/induction, policies and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser, via your Team Leader. You will also be invited to Read Easy UK’s regional forums and annual conference which give volunteers an opportunity for networking with those from other groups.
What you will be doing
● Reporting and actioning any safeguarding issues raised within the Team.
● Becoming familiar with Read Easy Safeguarding and DBS policies and appendices.
● Liaising with the local Adult Safeguarding Helpdesk, to seek advice or refer a case to them for further action in accordance with the Safeguarding Policy.
● Providing an induction for new Management Team Members so they are aware of the safeguarding requirements of the group, using the resources provided.
● Providing a short Safeguarding Refresher Session at a coach meeting annually.
● Carrying out Enhanced DBS checks on behalf of the group when appropriate.
● Ensuring that the group is acting in a way that recognises its safeguarding responsibilities in all its activities.
● Being the single point of contact for anyone within the group who wants to report any form of abuse or suspected abuse, or who has concerns and needs advice.
● Attending management team meetings, typically every six to eight weeks.

The skills you will need
● Ideally experience and understanding of adult safeguarding.
● Ability to work with discretion and confidentiality when required.
● A strong commitment to improving the lives of the people Read Easy works with.
● Good communication and people skills, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
● Reasonable confidence in using IT.
● The ability to use initiative and work independently.
● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures.
● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team.
● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included.
● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of two hours a week to commit to the role.
What is in it for you?
● Develop your knowledge and skills in relation to the safeguarding of adults
● Meet and work collaboratively with new people
● Be active and engaged, adding value to your local community
Interested
If you think you can offer the time, skills and experience that we are looking for and would be interested in taking up this role, please contact the person who sent you this role description.
Please note: All Read Easy volunteer roles are subject to Safer Recruitment procedures which include verification of identity and two references, and eligibility for Management Team roles in line with Charity Commission regulations for trustees.
Please see the ‘Introduction to Read Easy for potential Management Team volunteers’ to find out more about the structure and responsibilities of the Management Team.
 

Programme Support Volunteer

Mind of the Student
Ad ID: MOTS PSV 2026 01

About Us

Mind of the Student is a youth mental health charity that works with schools, young people and families to support emotional wellbeing and improve mental health awareness.

Our programmes include EmpowerU, Empowering Young Minds, school mental health workshops, Mind of the Parent and Ambassador Training. Through these projects, we aim to create safe spaces where young people feel heard, supported and empowered.

The Role

We are looking for Programme Support Volunteers to support our delivery team during workshops, school sessions and community programmes.

This is a supportive role where volunteers work alongside a Project Lead or Lead Facilitator to help sessions run smoothly. Volunteers will not be expected to deliver content but will play an important part in supporting students, helping to manage group activities, maintaining appropriate ratios and contributing to a positive environment during sessions.

This role would suit someone interested in mental health, youth work, education, psychology or counselling, as well as anyone looking to gain experience working with young people.

Current Programme Dates

We are currently seeking volunteers to support the following upcoming programmes:

Tower Hamlets

• Tuesday 25 August 2026
• Tuesday 1 September 2026

Islington

• Monday 28 September 2026
• Monday 12 October 2026

Applicants can express an interest in supporting one or more of these dates. Further information about the session times and venues will be provided to successful applicants.

Responsibilities may include:

• Supporting Lead Facilitators during sessions and workshops
• Helping to create a safe, welcoming and engaging environment
• Encouraging student participation and engagement
• Providing general pastoral support to young people where appropriate
• Supporting behaviour management alongside staff
• Assisting with setting up and packing away resources
• Helping to monitor student wellbeing during sessions
• Escalating any safeguarding or wellbeing concerns to senior staff
• Supporting the general organisation and smooth running of programmes

We are looking for people who:

• Are passionate about supporting young people
• Have an interest in mental health and wellbeing
• Are approachable, reliable and professional
• Feel comfortable working in school or youth settings
• Work well as part of a team
• Are willing to learn and take part in training

Previous experience is not essential.

We especially welcome applications from students or individuals looking for placements or practical experience within mental health, education, counselling, psychology, youth work or related sectors.

Applicants must:

• Be based within a 20 mile radius of Havering, Islington, Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Newham, Croydon or Southend on Sea
• Be willing to undergo an Enhanced DBS check
• Be able to commit to between 0 and 8 hours per week
• Share the values and mission of Mind of the Student

What We Offer

• Full training provided
• Travel expenses covered
• Flexible volunteering opportunities
• Valuable experience within school and mental health settings
• Opportunities to support meaningful programmes that make a difference to young people

Hours

Flexible hours are available from 0 to 8 hours per week.

Most sessions take place during school hours, with occasional evening workshops or events.

Safeguarding

Mind of the Student is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and safer recruitment procedures.

As our Team Assistant, everything you do matters! Help our therapy team provide seamless support to people on their journey to better mental health.

Here at Doncaster Mind we believe no one should have to face a mental health difficulty alone. Our therapy service is growing fast and we’re looking for a passionate individual to join our friendly team.

This is an opportunity to gain valuable experience, develop new skills and contribute to life-changing mental health support for people across Doncaster. 

What You'll Gain

Volunteering with Doncaster Mind is an opportunity to make a real difference while investing in your own personal and professional development. You'll receive:

• A structured induction, training and ongoing support
• Experience in administration, communication and community engagement
• Opportunities to develop digital, organisational and promotional skills
• Experience within a respected local mental health charity
• The chance to work alongside experienced professionals
• The satisfaction of supporting your local community and improving access to mental health support

Whether you're looking to gain experience for future employment, develop existing skills, explore a career in the charity or mental health sector, or retiring and looking to stay involved with meaningful work, we'd love to hear from you.

About The Role

As a Volunteer Team Assistant, you'll help support the smooth running and promotion of our Rise Therapy Service. This varied role may include:

• Supporting day-to-day client enquiries
• Assisting with appointment management
• Preparing therapy rooms and resources
• Helping maintain social media and website content
• Supporting community outreach and promotional activity across Doncaster
• Assisting with feedback collection and data input
• Helping create a welcoming, organised experience for clients

No two days are the same, and you'll always be supported by the Rise Therapy Service Co-ordinator and the wider Doncaster Mind team.

About Rise Therapy

Rise Therapy is Doncaster Mind's professional therapy and workforce wellbeing service, providing accessible, high-quality mental health support for individuals, families and organisations across Doncaster.

As part of Doncaster Mind, Rise operates as a not-for-profit service, with all income reinvested into our wider work to strengthen free mental health support across the community and reduce barriers to accessing help.

We're excited to hear from you!

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

 As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

 What we need from you

You’ll be:

· planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances

· providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events

· encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

 You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats. 

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

AD – USE PDF COPY

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

Role Profile

Located at

Shop Based

Department

Mind Retail 

Hours

Flexible – we value any time that you can give us, this can be a few hours, half days or full days. It’s important that within the time you give us, that you can meet all of the responsibilities of the role, outlined in the role profile.

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.

About the role

Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops. Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do.

Key tasks

Our Lead Volunteers are responsible for all of the following tasks:

· Opening, closing and managing the shop in the shop management team’s absence, which could include but not limited to:

o Setting up the till and cashing up at the end of the day

o Conducting a shop floor walk

o Conducting health & safety compliance checks, such as inputting information into our H&S system

o Checking shop emails and cascading key messages to the team

o Securing the shop

o Making sure housekeeping and cleaning is completed

· Works with the shop management team to meet sales targets and supports with ensuring that the volunteer team understand and are working to meet and exceed the agreed targets.

· Supports with ensuring the optimum price point for all stock items and promotional merchandise for seasoned and windowed themes, following the principles outlined in Mind Retail’s Pricing Guide

· Follows all company policies, shop standards and operating procedures and supports with the communication of these to other shop volunteers.

· Supports with the preparation and completion of shop administration inclusive of cash handling and banking functions to the highest standard, accurately and on time, always adhering to Company Policies and Procedures.

· Performs management till functions such as refunds.

· Provides direction and support to shop volunteers, following instructions from the shop management team.

· Supports with ensuring all Security, Health and Safety policies and procedures are adhered to in order to provide a safe and secure shop environment for our customers and colleagues.

· May support the shop management team with the recruitment of shop volunteers, planning volunteer cover and training.

Like our other volunteers, Lead Volunteers also support with the below key tasks:

· Supports with the presentation and maintenance of the highest standards of shop merchandising and visual layout.

· Supports with ensuring maximum stock availability through effective stock control and shop replenishment, adhering to Mind Retail’s merchandising guidelines.

· Actively promotes Gift Aid to maximise contributions from donations.

· Supports with the rotation, quality and replenishment of stock in order to maximise sales.

· Answering the shop telephone and taking messages from customers and our internal teams

· Ensures excellent shop standards at the end of the trading day and following closedown procedures

What you’ll gain from being a Lead Volunteer

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management and retail management experience

· Key holder experience

· Opportunity to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

About you

· Commitment to our values & behaviours

· Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets

· Flexible and adaptable approach

· Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative

· Able to build good working relationships

· Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures

· Willingness to learn

· Good customer service skills

· Good communication skills

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

AD – USE PDF COPY

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

Role Profile

Located at

Shop Based

Department

Mind Retail 

Hours

Flexible – we value any time that you can give us, this can be a few hours, half days or full days. It’s important that within the time you give us, that you can meet all of the responsibilities of the role, outlined in the role profile.

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.

About the role

Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops. Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do.

Key tasks

Our Lead Volunteers are responsible for all of the following tasks:

· Opening, closing and managing the shop in the shop management team’s absence, which could include but not limited to:

o Setting up the till and cashing up at the end of the day

o Conducting a shop floor walk

o Conducting health & safety compliance checks, such as inputting information into our H&S system

o Checking shop emails and cascading key messages to the team

o Securing the shop

o Making sure housekeeping and cleaning is completed

· Works with the shop management team to meet sales targets and supports with ensuring that the volunteer team understand and are working to meet and exceed the agreed targets.

· Supports with ensuring the optimum price point for all stock items and promotional merchandise for seasoned and windowed themes, following the principles outlined in Mind Retail’s Pricing Guide

· Follows all company policies, shop standards and operating procedures and supports with the communication of these to other shop volunteers.

· Supports with the preparation and completion of shop administration inclusive of cash handling and banking functions to the highest standard, accurately and on time, always adhering to Company Policies and Procedures.

· Performs management till functions such as refunds.

· Provides direction and support to shop volunteers, following instructions from the shop management team.

· Supports with ensuring all Security, Health and Safety policies and procedures are adhered to in order to provide a safe and secure shop environment for our customers and colleagues.

· May support the shop management team with the recruitment of shop volunteers, planning volunteer cover and training.

Like our other volunteers, Lead Volunteers also support with the below key tasks:

· Supports with the presentation and maintenance of the highest standards of shop merchandising and visual layout.

· Supports with ensuring maximum stock availability through effective stock control and shop replenishment, adhering to Mind Retail’s merchandising guidelines.

· Actively promotes Gift Aid to maximise contributions from donations.

· Supports with the rotation, quality and replenishment of stock in order to maximise sales.

· Answering the shop telephone and taking messages from customers and our internal teams

· Ensures excellent shop standards at the end of the trading day and following closedown procedures

What you’ll gain from being a Lead Volunteer

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management and retail management experience

· Key holder experience

· Opportunity to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

About you

· Commitment to our values & behaviours

· Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets

· Flexible and adaptable approach

· Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative

· Able to build good working relationships

· Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures

· Willingness to learn

· Good customer service skills

· Good communication skills

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

 As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

 What we need from you

You’ll be:

· planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances

· providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events

· encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

 You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

The role of a Volunteer Therapeutic Community Caseworker at the Baobab Centre is to support unaccompanied asylum seeking and refugee adolescents and young adults to access care, basic rights and entitlements and to support their social development and rehabilitation. This role involves working closely with the clinical key worker of each young person and with our wider multidisciplinary team. As a Caseworker you will aim to empower individuals to build stable, independent lives in the UK, including by supporting them to communicate their views, needs and experiences in decision-making processes, and supporting them to make challenges when necessary. Caseworkers assist young people to make effective choices about what happens in their lives and encourage them to speak up and build agency.

Baobab aims to be a non-residential therapeutic community with a holistic and integrated perspective. As a Volunteer Caseworker, you will play a key role within our multidisciplinary team. We aim to be a thinking organisation and place a high value on shared thinking time and shared responsibilities. Our team work together with each other and with agencies and key individuals in young people’s lives, both within and outside of Baobab. A key aspect of the role is communicating with members of the clinical and admin staff team within the Baobab Centre and with other workers in the network around each young person including social workers, teachers, foster carers, lawyers, hospital consultants, housing and benefits workers. etc. You will strive to develop relationships across networks and advocate access to rights and entitlements for our community members.

It is critical that as a Caseworker: 

- You have an insight to the backgrounds and experiences of both the internal and external factors impacting on the lives of unaccompanied young people attending our centre and an understanding of the broader context in our society as it impacts on young asylum seekers (including invisibility, marginalisation, discrimination and the fact of waiting in uncertainty for a long time).

- You have an insight in how trauma and the many human rights violations and persecution that most members of our community have experienced impact on all aspects of a young person’s internal and external world.

- You have an insight in how current immigration rules and social care system procedures act as barriers to rehabilitation, including by restricting access to education, adequate benefits, housing and healthcare provision.

To guarantee stability of service this Volunteer Casework role asks for a minimum commitment of 2 days per week over 6 months minimum.

As a full member of our multidisciplinary team and our therapeutic community you would be expected to volunteer regular hours, with the understanding and appreciation that you give your time freely and that there is flexibility to review with your Baobab supporter.

To telephone befriendees at their home for approximately 10 to 30 minutes, you will arrange the specific times of your future calls directly with them. These calls are intended to occur once a week, but individual needs will be matched with your availability.To provide a telephone conversation, a listening ear and chat about interests and hobbies, helping to alleviate loneliness and feelings of isolation. To provide companionship and human interaction at a time when this may be limited. To provide an update after each call to the Telephone Befriending support Team. This is so we can keep a track of the amount of befriending calls each volunteer is undertaking, the type of support being offered during these calls and if there is anything further required.

It is important to note telephone befriending is not counselling or therapy and other services must be sought if this is required.

Benefits

• FREE DBS.
• Discounted food.
• Store discount.
• Volunteer from home.
• Above all you will be making a positive difference in your befriendee’s life.
• As a volunteer telephone befriender, you will learn how to support others, make friends, become more confident, and practice communication skills.
• You will gain new and transferable skills. We offer support for you to increase your own job-readiness and personal development.
• Training opportunities,
• Volunteering experience
• Detailed references will be provided.

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