Learning disability volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About Make A Smile
Make A Smile is a UK charity dedicated to bringing joy, play, and magical experiences to children facing illness, disability, or disadvantage. Volunteers dress as beloved characters and deliver uplifting activities, from hospital visits and care‑centre sessions to arts, crafts, stories, and games - ensuring every child gets the chance to enjoy their childhood. Our Trustees and Central Officers help keep the charity running smoothly across the UK, acting “in the best interests of Make a Smile” and ensuring volunteers are well‑trained, supported, and empowered.
About the Role
The Sign Language Officer leads Make A Smile’s British Sign Language (BSL) and Makaton training programme, ensuring volunteers gain the communication skills needed to create magical, inclusive interactions at events. You will oversee teachers, develop engaging lesson plans, and ensure volunteers progress through training effectively.
Key Responsibilities
You will play a central role in developing and delivering high‑quality sign language training. Responsibilities include:
● Overseeing BSL and Makaton teachers and supporting them in running weekly sessions.
● Recruiting suitable teachers or supporting new teachers to develop their skills to the required level.
● Ensuring the charity can offer training at multiple levels (Beginners, Improvers, Novice, Intermediate) for both BSL and Makaton.
● Reviewing and approving lesson plans, ensuring content focuses on vocabulary and phrases useful for Make A Smile events.
● Managing volunteer applications for training, selecting participants based on commitment and likelihood of attending events.
● Supporting weekly sessions by ensuring attendance is taken, volunteers are engaged, and teachers have the resources they need.
● Stepping in to run a session or arranging cover if a teacher is unavailable.
● Monitoring volunteer engagement and removing volunteers from the programme if attendance or participation is consistently poor.
● Ensuring asynchronous training materials on the dashboard remain relevant and accessible.
● Reporting on training progress, volunteer engagement, and teacher needs at monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
This role suits someone organised, supportive, and passionate about inclusive communication. You’ll thrive if you bring:
● Strong organisational and coordination skills.
● Confidence in supporting and guiding teachers.
● Creativity in helping shape engaging, event‑focused lesson plans.
● A proactive, solution‑focused mindset.
● Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Show dedication… Enjoy it!”).
● An interest in BSL or Makaton (you do not need to be fluent - teachers deliver the content).
Time Commitment
Sign Language Officers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week, including supporting teachers, reviewing lesson plans, managing training groups, and attending monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Training and Support
You will receive:
● Full Trustee Training (online).
● A comprehensive handover and access to all systems (OneDrive, Simvoly, WhatsApp communities).
● Guidance from the Chair and fellow Trustees.
● Access to existing lesson plans, training materials, and templates.
● Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity‑funded training.
What You’ll Gain
● Experience managing a training programme within a national charity.
● Skills in coordination, leadership, and inclusive communication.
● The chance to shape how volunteers interact with children who use BSL or Makaton.
● A meaningful role that directly enhances the accessibility and impact of Make A Smile events.
● The joy of helping volunteers develop skills that create magical, inclusive moments for children.
Safeguarding and Eligibility
Sign Language Officers must act in line with charity standards, including professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability. You must be able to attend monthly meetings and engage actively in communication channels. A DBS check may be required depending on involvement with events.
How to Apply
To express your interest, please send a CV along with a short message outlining your experience, interest in sign language, and why you’d like to support Make A Smile’s training programme.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping children smile.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer Driver – David Lewis
“Help us get where we want to go… and be part of our journey.”
A Message From the People We Support
“We’re looking for Volunteer Drivers who will help us get out into our community, enjoy activities, make appointments, meet friends, and live the lives we choose.
Sometimes we just need someone kind, reliable, and friendly to help us get from A to B — so we can do the things that matter to us.”
Your time, even a little, helps us stay connected, independent and included.
What You’ll Do — From Our Perspective
As a Volunteer Driver, you will help us to:
- Travel safely to activities, appointments, events, and days out
- Feel comfortable and supported during journeys
- Stay independent by helping us access places that are important to us
- Experience new things and take part in opportunities we enjoy
You might drive your own car or one of our David Lewis vehicles — whatever works best for you.
What We’ll Provide to Support You
“You don’t need to know everything — just be willing to help and show up with a smile.”
You’ll receive:
- Full induction and ongoing support
- Out‑of‑pocket expenses covered
- Access to our vehicle fleet if you prefer not to use your own
- A friendly, helpful team around you
- The chance to make a meaningful difference in our everyday lives
Who We’re Hoping to Meet
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has a full, clean driving licence
- Is reliable, calm, and a good communicator
- Treats people with kindness, patience, and respect
- Is happy to complete the necessary checks and training
If that sounds like you, we’d love to have you on our journeys.
Why Volunteering With Us Matters
“When you volunteer with us, you’re not just giving a lift — you’re giving us freedom, choice, and connection.”
Your time helps us:
- Reach our personal goals
- Feel confident travelling
- Stay active in our community
- Enjoy richer, more meaningful experiences
Every journey you support makes a difference.
Interested? Let’s Talk.
We’d really like to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have a flair for communication and a desire to help us reach more people?
As a Marketing & Communications Assistant, you will work closely with the Project Leader to spread the word about our amazing Akioke Karaoke Confidence Club. You'll help us promote the club to potential members, volunteers, and the wider community, ensuring its success and sustainability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Content Creation: Assist the Project Leader draft engaging text for promotional materials (flyers, social media posts, website content).
- Social Media Support: Help schedule and post content on relevant social media platforms (e.g., Facebook groups, local community pages).
- Community Outreach: Identify local community groups, centres, schools, and organisations that could benefit from our club, and assist with distributing promotional materials.
- Information Gathering: Research relevant online forums, notice boards, and events where we can promote the club.
- Feedback Collection: Assist in gathering testimonials or feedback from members (with appropriate consent) to use in promotional efforts.
- Administrative Support: Help organise and maintain marketing materials and contact lists.
We're Looking For Someone Who Is:
- Creative and has a good eye for engaging content.
- Organised and attentive to detail.
- Familiar with social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram).
- Able to communicate clearly and concisely in writing.
- Proactive and able to take initiative with guidance.
- Reliable and able to commit to agreed-upon tasks.
- Passionate about the club's mission and helping us reach new audiences.
- Previous experience in marketing, communications, or social media is a bonus but not essential – a willingness to learn is most important!
Time Commitment: Flexible, approximately 2-4 hours per week, with tasks that can often be completed remotely or during mutually agreed-upon times, in collaboration with the Project Leader.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join the Wheels for All Volunteer Team – Help Us Make Cycling Inclusive for Everyone!
Do you want to make a difference in your local community? Are you passionate about inclusion, wellbeing, and having fun outdoors? Join Wheels for All, a national charity making cycling accessible for disabled people and those with long-term health conditions.
We believe everyone should experience the joy, freedom, and empowerment of cycling. Our inclusive cycling sessions are only possible thanks to a diverse team of dedicated volunteers—and that’s where you come in!
What You’ll Get Involved with:
-
Support people to use adapted cycles during sessions
-
Help with setting up and packing away equipment
-
Provide a friendly, welcoming environment for participants and families
-
Be part of a fun and supportive volunteer team
Volunteer Benefits
-
Claim reasonable expenses in line with our Volunteer Expense Policy
-
Receive a Wheels for All branded uniform
-
Access volunteer training courses to support your development
-
Be part of an inspiring, positive, and supportive charity culture
No experience? No problem!
We provide full training, including disability awareness and safety, and ongoing support from our team and fellow volunteers.
What are we looking for?
-
An approachable and friendly nature
-
Good interpersonal and communication skills
-
Empathy and an understanding of individual needs
-
Patience and an inclusive approach to engagement
-
Adaptability and flexibility in changing situations
-
A team-oriented attitude
-
Positivity, honesty, and integrity
-
Strong organisational skills and the ability to take initiative
-
Some cycling experience is helpful but not essential
Why volunteer with us?
“The best thing about volunteering is seeing the happy faces! The riders come back beaming—it’s amazing to be a part of that joy.” – Dave, Volunteer
“People that aren’t normally able to get out cycling can come here and join in and enjoy the great outdoors. I really enjoy volunteering with Wheels for All because I can visibly see how the simple act of cycling brings a lot of happiness” - Vince, Volunteer
You’ll Gain:
-
Confidence and new skills
-
Connections and friendships
-
Improved mental wellbeing
-
A chance to be part of a national movement for inclusive cycling
-
Recognition through social events, newsletters, and volunteer awards
Join us—and help make cycling accessible for all!
Join the Wheels for All Volunteer Team – Help Us Make Cycling Inclusive for Everyone!
Do you want to make a difference in your local community? Are you passionate about inclusion, wellbeing, and having fun outdoors? Join Wheels for All, a national charity making cycling accessible for disabled people and those with long-term health conditions.
We believe everyone should experience the joy, freedom, and empowerment of cycling. Our inclusive cycling sessions are only possible thanks to a diverse team of dedicated volunteers—and that’s where you come in!
What You’ll Get Involved with:
-
Support people to use adapted cycles during sessions
-
Help with setting up and packing away equipment
-
Provide a friendly, welcoming environment for participants and families
-
Be part of a fun and supportive volunteer team
Volunteer Benefits
-
Claim reasonable expenses in line with our Volunteer Expense Policy
-
Receive a Wheels for All branded uniform
-
Access volunteer training courses to support your development
-
Be part of an inspiring, positive, and supportive charity culture
No experience? No problem!
We provide full training, including disability awareness and safety, and ongoing support from our team and fellow volunteers.
What are we looking for?
-
An approachable and friendly nature
-
Good interpersonal and communication skills
-
Empathy and an understanding of individual needs
-
Patience and an inclusive approach to engagement
-
Adaptability and flexibility in changing situations
-
A team-oriented attitude
-
Positivity, honesty, and integrity
-
Strong organisational skills and the ability to take initiative
-
Some cycling experience is helpful but not essential
Why volunteer with us?
“The best thing about volunteering is seeing the happy faces! The riders come back beaming—it’s amazing to be a part of that joy.” – Dave, Volunteer
“People that aren’t normally able to get out cycling can come here and join in and enjoy the great outdoors. I really enjoy volunteering with Wheels for All because I can visibly see how the simple act of cycling brings a lot of happiness” - Vince, Volunteer
You’ll Gain:
-
Confidence and new skills
-
Connections and friendships
-
Improved mental wellbeing
-
A chance to be part of a national movement for inclusive cycling
-
Recognition through social events, newsletters, and volunteer awards
Join us—and help make cycling accessible for all.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Hereford and surrounding areas to befriend and mentor a young person in care.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life!
Young Person quote: 'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’
Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person.
Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation. Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals."
We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.
A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries.
If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.
Thank you for considering this opportunity!
Expectations
- Two-year commitment
- Minimum age of 18
- Based in the UK
- DBS check
- Digital risk assessment compliance
- Completion of training relevant to the role
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
Benefits
This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!
At NYAS, we listen to what children, young people and vulnerable adults want. We empower them to have their voices heard.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are searching for an enthusiastic volunteer to become the Recruitment Officer for our Newcastle branch, this role focuses on encouraging volunteers to join Make a Smile. In terms of member recruitment, they will need to help organise and run training sessions, organise and seek recruitment opportunities such as hosting stalls at Volunteering Fairs, contact through coleges/universities and social media use etc etc. Finally, they will need to encourage trainees to complete the essential training, including hosting intial introduction training sessions and help get volunteers to their first event!
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Connection Support has a range of services providing support to people at risk of homelessness or on the edge of needing social care. We work with people made vulnerable through debt, mental health issues, substance misuse, learning disability, and physical disabilities.
Volunteers play a key role in the provision of vital services to our clients.
Are you a reliable handyperson who can undertake, upkeep, and repair a range of tasks for our housing support clients?
- Do you have 1-2 hours a week to make basic home improvements to client’s accommodation?
- Are you a dab hand at DIY and want to put your handyperson skills to good use?
- Do you have an interest in motivating people to make positive changes in their lives through acquiring new skills?
If you can answer ‘yes’ to these questions, then we would love to hear from you!
Key responsibilities
Your role will include carrying out basic household repairs and alterations such as:
- Gardening work
- Flat pack furniture assembly
- Putting up curtain rails/blinds
- Hanging pictures and shelves
Skills required
No volunteering experience is required however the below skills are essential:
- Practical skills in DIY and/or gardening
- Good listening and communication skills
- Excellent people skills to enable you to work with a range of individuals with complex backgrounds
- Reliable and trustworthy
- Respect confidentiality
- Ability to build effective working relationships with clients in a non-patronising way
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer as a princess, superhero or jedi to bring magic to children who need it!
Make a Smile volunteers can take on a number of different roles:
1. Characters - Visit children in costume, as well-known children's characters (eg princesses and superheroes). Provide support at events of a number of other charities, children's hospitals and council organisations through storytime, interactions and activities.
2. Magic Makers - Visit children out of costume and provide enrichment such as arts and crafts, games etc.
3. Committee - Help behind the scenes by organising events, recruiting volunteers, running training sessions, helping sort costumes, running fundraisers etc.
Wherever your skills lie! All training is given and costumes provided so all you need is a bit of enthusiasm!
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer as a princess, superhero or jedi to bring magic to children who need it!
Make a Smile volunteers can take on a number of different roles:
1. Characters - Visit children in costume, as well-known children's characters (eg princesses and superheroes). Provide support at events of a number of other charities, children's hospitals and council organisations through storytime, interactions and activities.
2. Magic Makers - Visit children out of costume and provide enrichment such as arts and crafts, games etc.
3. Committee - Help behind the scenes by organising events, recruiting volunteers, running training sessions, helping sort costumes, running fundraisers etc.
Wherever your skills lie! All training is given and costumes provided so all you need is a bit of enthusiasm!
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Shaftesbury to befriend and mentor a young person in care.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life!
Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’
Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person.
Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation. Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals."
We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.
A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries.
If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.
Thank you for considering this opportunity!
Expectations
- Two-year commitment
- Minimum age of 18
- Based in the UK
- DBS check
- Digital risk assessment compliance
- Completion of training relevant to the role
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
Benefits
This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!
At NYAS, we listen to what children, young people and vulnerable adults want. We empower them to have their voices heard.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Launceston to befriend and mentor a young person in care.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life!
Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’
Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person.
Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation. Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals."
We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.
A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries.
If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.
Thank you for considering this opportunity!
Expectations
- Two-year commitment
- Minimum age of 18
- Based in the UK
- DBS check
- Digital risk assessment compliance
- Completion of training relevant to the role
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
Benefits
This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!
At NYAS, we listen to what children, young people and vulnerable adults want. We empower them to have their voices heard.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Swindon to befriend and mentor a young person in care.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life!
Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’
Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person.
Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation. Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals."
We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.
A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries.
If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.
Thank you for considering this opportunity!
Expectations
- Two-year commitment
- Minimum age of 18
- Based in the UK
- DBS check
- Digital risk assessment compliance
- Completion of training relevant to the role
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
Benefits
This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!
At NYAS, we listen to what children, young people and vulnerable adults want. We empower them to have their voices heard.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Whitchurch to befriend and mentor a young person in care.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life!
Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’
Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person.
Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation. Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals."
We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.
A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries.
If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.
Thank you for considering this opportunity!
Expectations
- Two-year commitment
- Minimum age of 18
- Based in the UK
- DBS check
- Digital risk assessment compliance
- Completion of training relevant to the role
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
Benefits
This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!
At NYAS, we listen to what children, young people and vulnerable adults want. We empower them to have their voices heard.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
The National Youth Advocacy Service is a wonderful children's rights charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people who have experienced care.
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers in Coleford to befriend and mentor a young person in care.
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in a young person's life!
Young Person quote:'It gives you a friend that you can spend time with doing the things you like to do’
Children and young people in care truly deserve an adult who can share their time, engage in fun activities, and build a trusting and meaningful relationship. Your visits can easily fit into your schedule, allowing you to juggle your commitments while being a positive role model for a young person.
Volunteer quote: "Volunteering with NYAS has reinforced my belief in the crucial role of community support in empowering the next generation. Witnessing the positive changes and growth in the young person I support highlights the tangible impact that dedicated volunteers can have on building a brighter future for vulnerable individuals."
We kindly ask for just a few hours once a month for a minimum of two years.
A set budget will cover activities and travel expenses so you can focus on making a difference without any worries.
If you're interested, we would love to hear from you.
Thank you for considering this opportunity!
Expectations
- Two-year commitment
- Minimum age of 18
- Based in the UK
- DBS check
- Digital risk assessment compliance
- Completion of training relevant to the role
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
- Ability to complete online tasks and reports
Benefits
This is a worthwhile opportunity where you will make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person, become part of a leading national children's charity, gain valuable experience, meet new people and have fun!
At NYAS, we listen to what children, young people and vulnerable adults want. We empower them to have their voices heard.

