Learning and development volunteer roles

EQUAL AQUA is an award-winning NGO providing equal access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in Uganda. Equal Aqua is managed by an international team of 30+ volunteers, based mainly in the UK and Uganda, but spanning over 10 countries.

We are looking to expand and diversify our team of volunteers – seeking candidates with knowledge and skills in various fields, and a deep passion for our cause.

Fundraising Manager (volunteer) - Role and Responsibilities

• Oversee implementation of Equal Aqua's fundraising strategy in line with business objectives, and the vision and values of EAU;
• Lead an international team of volunteers to execute the fundraising strategy, delegating and managing responsibilities as appropriate;
• Lead EAU Fundraising team to raise income through multiple channels: grant and charitable foundation applications, corporate sponsorship, individual and community giving, and creative fundraising events;
• Manage a portfolio of existing supporters, providing exceptional supporter care and building relationships, stewarding and nurturing existing donors;
• Improve supporter retention and maximise donors’ lifetime value to EAU;
• Monitor developments in the funding world/landscape and identify opportunities to bid for funding.
• Be a key player in preparing the annual budget, tracking income and expenditure, and achieving the annual targets agreed for individual giving, mid-level giving, and wider voluntary funding.
• Report to the Equal Aqua Executive Committee and Board of Trustees.

Business Functions

• Work independently and proactively, working flexibly during peaks and troughs of EAU’s activities, while prioritising work to meet deadlines;
• Support reporting to Equal Aqua’s Executive Committee, relevant subcommittees, and Board of Trustees;
• Attend EAU team meetings, committee meetings, and (where appropriate) Board of Trustees;
• Contribute to EAU’s external reporting, providing materials for project reports to grant-givers and

Our Vision: To become a leading organisation in Uganda in addressing inequalities in WASH, and interrelated issues of gender and sustainability

Our Mission: We will achieve this by working with partners and local communities to develop the required WASH skills, knowledge and practical interventions

Objectives:

• To improve access to safe and sustainable WASH for those facing the greatest inequalities in Uganda
• To strengthen the participation of local communities in WASH, in particular women and girls, and displaced peoples
• To take action to protect the natural environment, reduce pollution and tackle climate change

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS:

·32,866 people with improved access to safe water

·11,044 people with improved sanitation

·11,755 people with improved WASH knowledge and skills

·3,877 people with improved menstrual hygiene knowledge

·British High Commission award winner

VALUES:

At Equal Aqua we champion bottom-up grassroots development. To make this possible, we have created a proactive and friendly environment, which strives to create practical and lasting solutions to WASH-related issues. Each member of Equal Aqua is passionate about WASH inequalities, and our values are a central basis for inspiration and the culture of the organisation.

Why volunteer for EAU?

By volunteering for EAU you will directly contribute to making tangible and positive changes to people’s lives in Uganda. Your efforts will help us to grow and empower our team of international volunteers, enabling us to reach more communities and transform more lives. You will also get to meet & collaborate with a great team of volunteers from all over the world.  If you like the sound of this role, we encourage you to apply even if you aren’t confident that you meet all of the requirements – you may be just who we’re looking for.

*Please note that all members of Equal Aqua work remotely and on a voluntary basis. We ask that volunteers contribute on average 1 day per week and commit to the role for 12 months as a minimum.

Interviews will take place via MS Teams where you will meet an informal panel of volunteers.

Data Protection and Privacy:

As a non-profit organization, we are committed to safeguarding the privacy and security of all applicants' personal information. We process your personal data in line with applicable data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) where relevant.

Any information you share with us during the recruitment process will be used solely for assessing your suitability for the position and will be handled confidentially. Your data will be stored securely, accessed only by authorized staff, and retained only for as long as necessary for recruitment purposes.

You have the right to access, correct, or request the deletion of your personal data at any time. By applying, you consent to the processing of your information in accordance with these principles.

DEI statement:

EAU is committed to offering equal opportunities and treatment to all its volunteers. We see diversity as a strength and anyone seeking volunteering at Equal Aqua is considered based on merit, qualifications, competence, and talent. We don’t regard colour, religion, ethnicity, race, national origin, sexual orientation, ancestry, citizenship, sex, marital or family status, disability, gender, or any other legally protected status.  

We are extremely proud to be an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from all backgrounds. To make your recruitment experience with us accessible to you, we encourage you to let us know if you have any individual requirements.

‘Equal Aqua’ is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in the UK; it operates equally and in unison with ‘Equal Aqua Uganda’, a registered Community Based Organisation (CBO) in Uganda (‘EAU’ refers to both).

See inside our Collections storage facility - closed to the public - and help us prepare to move our collection to a new facility

What is an Inventory volunteer?

The RAF Museum has many items in its collection which are not currently on display. Our inventory volunteers will ensure that we have an up-to-date record of all the items in our reserve collection, their purpose and condition, to help us prepare to move from our current store outside Stafford to a new storage facility in Cosford. This is a weekday only opportunity.

This role sits within the RAF Museum’s Midlands Development Programme which will transform our museum and our impact on the local community through a series of phased projects – engaging audiences who may not obviously identify with the RAF story by finding common interests and histories which link them. As part of this project, we are planning a new learning centre, outdoor spaces, collections hub and major exhibition.

What will I be doing?

The Inventory Volunteer role could encompass various tasks, which might include:

· Assessing objects’ condition

· Measuring and weighing items

· Undertaking cleaning as required

· Object photography

This role is perfect for you if you…

· Are curious and eager to learn

· Pay attention to detail

· Have a light and careful touch

· Are happy working as part of a team

· Are organised and able to keep accurate records

How much time would I need to commit?

Ideally a half day (09:00 to 12:00 or 13:00 to 16:00) once a week, although other arrangements can be considered on a case-by-case basis. We would ask that volunteers commit to a minimum of 20 volunteering sessions. This is a weekdays only opportunity.

What's in it for me?

· Becoming part of a great team of volunteers and staff

· See and handle objects from the RAF Museum’s collection not on public display

· Learn about object conservation

· Discover more about the history of the RAF

· Gain behind-the-scenes experience within the heritage sector

· 25% discount at our retail outlets and café[KS1] 

· Travel expenses reimbursed up to £14.50 per day, in line with our policy

· Free entry to a wide range of museums and heritage sites across the UK.

The Beacon Project is a community-focused programme providing confidential advice, connection, and learning opportunities for residents in the World’s End area. Through weekly coffee mornings, group sessions, and a befriending service that matches individuals with friendly Connectors for regular meet-ups, Beacon helps reduce isolation and build meaningful local relationships. We also offer free, practical support on issues such as benefits and housing, helping people understand their options and access the advice they need. The programme is delivered as a partnership between Family Friends and Nucleus Legal Advice Centre.

About the Role 

As our Community Engagement and Support Volunteer, you will be the first friendly face people meet. This role is perfect for someone approachable, confident, community-minded, and who enjoys connecting with others. You will help create a welcoming, inclusive environment where residents feel comfortable accessing support and getting involved in community activities. 

What You Will Be Doing

As a volunteer, you will welcome residents and help them feel comfortable accessing the project and its services. You will spend time speaking with local people to raise awareness of the Beacon Project, encourage participation, and build positive relationships within the community. The role will involve supporting community events, coffee mornings, and other outreach activities. Using active listening skills, you'll build trust with residents, take the time to understand their needs, and help connect them with the right support where appropriate. Volunteers will also be encouraged to share their ideas and creativity, helping us develop new ways to engage residents and make the project as welcoming and accessible as possible. You will assist with promoting the service through community events, coffee mornings, leaflets, and our social media channels. 

What you will gain from the project 

We are a dynamic and innovative project, passionate about providing wraparound support to the residents of World's End. As a volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference by supporting people in your local community and helping them access the advice, connections, and opportunities they need. You'll be part of a friendly and diverse team of staff and volunteers. You will also have the opportunity to be part of a project that values the ideas and contributions of our volunteers. We value the skills and experiences that volunteers bring, and you'll be encouraged to share your insights into how we can develop the project. This is an opportunity to gain valuable experience, build confidence, develop new skills in community engagement and communication, and be part of a project that is making a difference locally. 

This experience will enhance your CV and support future career development in law, community work, advice services, or other people-focused roles. 

What we are looking for 

You will bring a friendly and approachable manner and the ability to figure out how best to support people. That means helping clients to become independent. Some interactions may involve people with complex needs or stress, so patience and empathy are two of the most important qualities that we are looking for. You will have excellent communication skills and the ability to advocate for and promote the project to the local community. We are looking for someone who can be a community ambassador for our project and a friendly face for residents. 

Our volunteers support residents from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. While most residents speak English, many community members speak other languages, including Arabic, Spanish and French. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, and additional language skills are an advantage, but are not essential. 

Expenses

We want volunteering with us to be accessible to everyone. Reasonable travel and food expenses will be reimbursed. Further information on claiming expenses will be provided during the interview stage.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Beacon Project is committed to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during volunteering to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.

We believe that a diverse team helps us better serve the residents of World's End Estate and strengthens our work within the community.

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

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

Pursuing the role

We will be running a number of information events locally and these are:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Training for role - Date, Times and Location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 15/05/2027

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital fun

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. Candidates must be over 18 to apply. 

Volunteering in the shop

Mary's Living & Giving for Save the Children is unique - a vibrant result of the generous gifts of local individuals and companies being turned around by the skills and passions of volunteer teams, to create a destination retail experience. Selling womenswear, menswear, shoes, and bags to household goods, our shops can be found in the London villages and bring in vital funds for Save the Children.

Our East Dulwich Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied. We would also love to hear from people willing to volunteer on Sundays. 

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children. 

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related). 

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button. Please let us know if you are willing to volunteer on Sundays.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. Candidates must be over 18.

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

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

Pursuing the role

We will be running a number of information events locally and these are:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Training for role - Date, Times and Location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a session across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

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

Pursuing the role

We will be running a number of information events locally and these are:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Training for role - Date, Times and Location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 01/11/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. Candidates must be over 18 to apply. 

Volunteering in the shop

The Clapham shop is a modern, contemporary and urban street store, unlike any other charity shop you've ever seen - full of vintage treasures, gorgeous greenery and creativity!

Our Clapham Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children. 

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related). 

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button. 

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. Candidates must be over 18 to apply. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

The National Institute for African Studies (NIAS) is a London-based think tank that provides objective information on African affairs, looking to appoint a Research & Publishing Intern within its office in South West, London. Our main publication, The Saharan is an interdisciplinary journal published by NIAS aimed at exploring the dynamic relationship between culture and development in Africa/UK.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

- Support the editors in the sourcing & production of blog and journal publications

- Checking material for completeness, copy-edit and check appropriate non-technical material such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter updates

- Generate, check and correct files with names, contact information, number of articles, review assessments, and consent forms.

- Serve as a custodian of approved originals of all documentation produced for The Saharan journal

- Use NIAS LinkedIn account to connect to academics and groups to promote the journal, acquire papers, and attract skilled scholars to become reviewers

- Coordinate the publication flow of the journal and all stages of the editorial processes upon the release of each issue

- Review and adjust publications according to the style of the journal, ensuring the correct usage of references and plagiarism checking

- Update wordpress website and a range of social media accounts with news, updates and promotions

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST:

- Have a minimum of undergraduate degree

- Excellent knowledge of MS Office applications

- Good knowledge of wordpress, crm, social media tools

- Demonstrate excellent editorial and administrative skills together with high attention to detail

- Ability to work under pressure to tight schedules and deadlines

TO APPLY:

- CV

- Covering Letter

- Official transcript(s) of universities attended

- Contact information for two referees (email and telephone preferably from both universities and workplaces)

The position is based in London, UK. Only candidates who already possess the right to work in the UK should apply. The contract is for three months with a probation period of six weeks, extendable upon agreement and contingent on a continued volunteer/paid position.

Candidates should send a covering letter explaining the skills they would offer to NIAS, attaching a CV and a list of referees. The deadline for this round of application is 30 April. Due to the high number of applicants, only those selected will be contacted.

Flexible Working Options Available:

• Flexitime
• Work from home/university
• Part-time

Job Types: Volunteer, Internship

Benefits:

• Travel Expenses, Flexitime
• Support with relevant training
• Career Mentorship
• Sponsored attendance/Presentation at cultural events, conferences, seminars

Education:

•  BSc. and equivalent or higher (required)

Experience:

• Publishing: 1 year (preferred)
• Research 1 year (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

Attending youth groups / badger setts, could also eventually go on to become a youth leader too. Will be asked during interview what cadet groups / badger setts they will be willing to attend.

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

Pursuing the role

We will be running a number of information events locally and these are:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event - Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Training for role - Date, Times and Location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 15/05/2027

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

About Roots Academy 

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries.

Our vision is enabling university students to live God-centred lives, so we teach structured, engaging and transformative face-to-face foundational Islamic education to over 2,000 students across the UK, Canada, Australia & USA.

Role Summary

As a Graphic Designer, you will be instrumental in shaping the visual identity of Roots Academy Canada. From designing educational resources and social media assets to crafting digital campaigns and event materials, your work will ensure our content reflects ihsan (excellence), clarity, and spiritual depth. You will help bring Islamic learning to life through purposeful, polished, and impactful design.

Key tasks

• Design Development: Create visually compelling graphics for use across social media, email, web, presentations, and print

• Brand Consistency: Ensure all visual materials align with Roots Academy’s brand guidelines and Islamic values

• Content Support: Collaborate with the social media and education teams to translate ideas and scripts into polished, engaging visuals

• Campaign Assets: Support event and program launches by designing posters, promo kits, and other visual collateral

• Template Creation: Build easy-to-edit templates for internal teams to use (e.g., Canva or Google Slides)

• Revision & Feedback: Adapt designs based on team feedback while maintaining efficiency and quality

• Trend Awareness: Stay up to date on design and content trends, especially within the faith-based and youth development space

• Project Management: Maintain organized design files and deliver work in a timely manner

What we’re looking for

• Strong design portfolio demonstrating creativity, clarity, and alignment with brand guidelines

• Experience using tools like Canva, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or Figma

• Attention to detail and a strong sense of layout, typography, and visual hierarchy

• Ability to take direction while contributing creative input

• A deep understanding of Islamic values and visual modesty in design

• Experience designing for social media platforms (Instagram, YouTube, TikTok)

• Excellent communication and time-management skills

What we have to offer

• Be part of a team of 100+ dedicated volunteers from across the country.

• Receive continuous rewards for those that seek Islamic knowledge from the Roots platform.

• Be a part of a growing organisation that aims to revive and educate Muslims from a grassroots perspective.

• Receive in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen. 

Please note this is an unpaid volunteer position. 

Volunteers are entitled to claim expenses incurred for food, travel and equipment, in line with our Expenses policy. 

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.

Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

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

Pursuing the role

We will be running a number of information events locally and these are:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Training for role - Date, Times and Location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

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

Pursuing the role

We will be running a number of information events locally and these are:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Training for role - Date, Times and Location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 20/12/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below: