Live volunteer roles

Do you enjoy public speaking? Do you want to share the message of who Mencap are, what we do and bust some myths to groups and corporates around learning disabilities? If the answer is yes, then our Mencap Volunteer Speaker role could be for you!

We’re looking for confident public speakers to represent Mencap by delivering Lunch and Learn talks. You’ll be fully supported with training, guidance, and a prepared presentation and script. In this role, you’ll deliver engaging sessions either in person or virtually via Teams, reaching a wide range of groups and organisations.

Frequently you'll be co-delivering these talks with people with a learning disability, so you'll hear first hand their stories and the impact you'll make.

For this role you will need access to your own laptop.

We want to spread the message of who Mencap are and the amazing work we do, so as well as attending lunch and learns requested by our current corporates, we're looking for volunteers who will as part of the role, proactively; research, reach out and contact local groups (e.g: Rotary Clubs, Women's Institutes) and share our lunch and learn presentation with them.

The role also gives you the opportunity to attend cheque presentations and act as a representative for Mencap at supporter’s fundraising activities.

About Mencap

Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.

We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

This is an Out and about visit role which means your visits are likely to be longer, very active and the person you visit will often take an active part in planning your outings and activities in the community. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tends to be around a couple of hours, sometimes shorter or longer, depending on what you plan to do.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat
• Checking in on their well- being
• Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink
• Take part on community activities like visiting a place of interest, go shopping etc.
• Enjoying a walk

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

 Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistants to support our face-to-face study programme called ‘Get Ready for School.’

This programme is attended by young people out of education and is based in Streatham on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Core delivery of the programme includes English, Maths, Digital skills, complemented by Reading and Writing for Pleasure.

We also run Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon classes open to all existing CARAS youth community members, 4:30pm to 6pm. These classes tend to be larger and have a large range of language levels. 

Volunteers in this role are required to commit to at least one 2-hour session per week, during these times:

• Monday 10 am to 3pm

• Tuesday 2pm to 6pm 

• Wednesday 11am to 6pm

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within ESOL classes;

• Help young people to build confidence in digital literacy;

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;

• Engaging learners in informal conversations or games during breaks to help them practice their conversational English.

• Checking the session plan aims with the lead teacher and assisting learners achieve them;

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project;

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements 

Essential: 

• To be 18 years or older;

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (travel and food expenses can be reimbursed);

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds;

• To be reliable and punctual. We ask volunteers to commit to at least one class every week for a minimum of 4 months. If you are unable to attend a class due to a planned holiday, you must inform the program lead in advance. 

• Excellent communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;

• The ability to volunteer on Monday mornings and Wednesday afternoons/evenings during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum seeker or refugee status

• *Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check (DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a Caras community member who is more recently arrived in the UK);

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

*DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK. 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering 
   

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with a member of the CARAS learning staff team and a community member. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP! 
 

 All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. 

Bright Futures UK is looking for passionate and engaging tutors to provide educational support to primary aged pupils in Maths and English and a fun, safe learning environment for young people living with long-term illnesses.

"My student's confidence has come miles forward and my favourite part of the week is working with her on her maths and English!" - Primary Volunteer Tutor

What will you be doing? 

• Run tutoring sessions online to support a young person. 

• Offer subject area knowledge and expertise related to KS1 and KS2 Maths and English. 

• Help to combat social isolation through fun and engaging tutoring sessions. 

• Adhere to safeguarding policies and report concerns to the BFUK Team

What are we looking for? 

• Subject Knowledge: Strong understanding of Primary Maths and English Curriculum. 

• Teaching Skills: Ability to explain complex ideas in a clear and engaging way.

• Empathy and Patience: Kind and understanding nature, especially towards those facing health challenges.

• Reliability: Consistent availability for the agreed-upon time commitment.

• Experience working with SEN learners is an advantage

• Adherence to safeguarding policies and report concerns to the BFUK Team

• You must be a UK resident and be at least 18 years old.

What difference will you make? 

• Academic Progress: Help young people stay on track with their studies despite their health challenges, ensuring they do not fall behind.

• Confidence Builder: Provide a stable and encouraging presence that helps build the students' confidence and resilience.

• Future Opportunities: Equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. 

What will you gain?

• Enhanced DBS will be provided

• Safeguarding Level One Training

• Skill Development opportunities

• Direct experience working with children and young people

As a charity that supports children and young people, we make safeguarding individuals our top priority. For this reason, all volunteers are subject to an enhanced criminal record and disclosures check. We also ask all volunteers to adhere to our Safeguarding, Equality and Confidentiality policies. These are nothing to worry about and if you have any questions, our team are happy to support you.

Trustees – Dementia Carers Count

Expertise areas: Finance & Investments | Income Generation | Strategic Impact & Growth

Dementia Carers Count (DCC) is a national charity supporting and advocating for the millions of people across the UK who care for someone living with dementia.

Carers often feel invisible and overwhelmed, yet they provide essential, complex care every day. DCC exists to change that - offering practical and emotional support, amplifying carers’ voices, and campaigning for long‑term reform.As we shape the next phase of our strategic development, we are looking for three new trustees to bring expertise, strong governance and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of dementia carers.

What we are looking for:

• Finance & Investments Trustee
  We’re seeking a trustee with strong finance and investment expertise, including charity finance experience. You’ll help ensure robust financial governance, long‑term sustainability and effective risk management. Working with the Board and executive team, you’ll oversee budgets, monitor performance and support decisions that strengthen our financial position.
  Committee: Finance, Audit & Risk.
   
• Income Generation Trustee
  We’re looking for a trustee with expertise in income generation to support DCC’s growth and long‑term sustainability. You’ll bring strategic insight across areas such as fundraising, corporate partnerships and/or digital income, helping to diversify and strengthen our income streams. Working alongside the Board and executive team, you’ll contribute to shaping income growth strategy, offering challenge, guidance and insight to help maximise income and build organisational resilience.
  Committee:Income Generation
   
• Strategic Impact & Growth Trustee
  We’re seeking a trustee who can help turn our strong foundation into greater visibility and long‑term growth. You’ll help us evidence our impact, communicate it confidently, and build partnerships and income that expand our reach. This role supports the Board to ensure our services remain high‑quality, sustainable and clearly understood by the public.
  Committee: Income Generation.

We would particularly welcome applicants who bring lived experience of dementia care, as this perspective strengthens our understanding of the challenges carers face and helps shape meaningful, relevant strategy.

Time commitment:

Around 12 days per year, including:

• Quarterly Board meetings (hybrid)

• Committee meetings (online)

• Strategy day

• Occasional involvement in interviews, events or Task & Finish groups
 

Terms

This is an unremunerated voluntary role.

All reasonable travel and subsistence expenses will be reimbursed.

How to apply

DCC are working with their retained partner at TPP Recruitment on this appointment.

To express your interest, please apply with an updated CV and a member of TPP’s Leadership & Governance team will be in touch with further information.

Closing date: 5.00pm, 19th March 2026

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE) 

CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings  

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The reading group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the reading group sessions are as follows: 

• Monday afternoons 2pm to 3pm 

• Wednesday mornings 11am to 1pm. 

Volunteers are required to attend either one of both sessions. Volunteers are also welcome to stay and support the more traditional English language classes either before the reading session on Mondays or after the reading session on Wednesdays. 

Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.

The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.

The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.

Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources; 

• Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;  

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• * Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.  

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry 

• The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months; 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish; 

• Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

This is an opportunity for a female befriender to visit a lovely, chatty lady in New Barnet. She’s a lover of all things crafty, including making jewellery and painting, but her absolute favourite are jigsaw puzzles. She would love a visitor to do these things with her, as well as going for walks to the local coffee shop for a slice of cake or spending some time in the garden on a sunny day.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

This is a Stop and stay, let’s get busy visitor role which means the person you will be visiting can communicate actively with you and take part in choosing or planning activities.  As you get to know each our you may choose to ‘go out’ either with or without support from the staff that supports the person you visit.  Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tends to be around an hour or longer, depending on what you do.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat

• Checking in on their well- being

• Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink

• Enjoying a walk

• A craft activity at home

• Reading a book/magazine together                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

- Friendly and approachable

- Accepting of others who might be different to yourself

- Reliable and patient

- Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

- Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit

- Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training

- Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed

- Meet new people

- Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

About Mencap

Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Do you enjoying talking with people and helping them based on your life experiences?

Are you able to volunteer a few hours a week?

Yes? We’d love to hear from you.

What is knus?

knus is the UK’s first free, confidential, mental health peer support and coaching online chat service. knus offers mental health educational plans, relaxation experiences and live workshops.

What does knus mean? 'hug' in Danish.

Here’s some further information on what’s needed:

Are you over 18 and living in the UK?

You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.

Do you have a laptop?

A laptop and a quiet space to volunteer is essential.

How much time can you give?

A minimum of 2+ hours per week is required. We are flexible and like to work around you.

Do you like to learn?

We provide training for all volunteers that join us. Our peer support training is accredited.  20-25 hours of volunteering training is required and is self led online.

If you’re interested head over to our website and we can have a chat or apply here.

Please note - all successful volunteers are required to donate the cost price of £22.60 for an Enhanced DBS check.  If you've got a current Enhanced DBS on the update service, this cost will not apply.

You must be a UK resident to apply for this role.

Are you passionate about making Wakefield a fairer city? Join us and help improve the lives of people in Wakefield!

Prosper Wakefield District is a dynamic, independent charity dedicated to improving the lives of people in Wakefield. We provide grants, foster partnerships and encourage investment into the Wakefield District.

At Prosper, our core values are at the heart of everything we do:

· Valuing trust and bravery

· Collaborating for better

· Listening then acting

· Considering different points of view.

If this describes you – then we’d love to hear from you! You could be joining our small and welcoming Trustee board and making a difference to the people of our district.

About Us:

Prosper Wakefield District is a dynamic and impactful charity dedicated to supporting the VCSE sector, who work with some of the most vulnerable people and communities and those facing the greatest health inequalities. We also work with health, business, and public sector partners to identify and develop shared approaches to reduce gaps in health inequalities in some of the districts most deprived neighbourhoods and communities. Our work positively impacts the lives of so many underrepresented and disadvantaged groups across the district. As we continue to grow and expand our reach, we are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

Role Overview:

As a Trustee of Prosper you will play a vital role in ensuring the charity is effectively governed and well-managed. You will work alongside fellow trustees and the executive team to provide strategic direction, ensure accountability, and oversee the charity’s operations and financial health.

Key Responsibilities:

- Provide strategic leadership and direction.

- Ensure the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, and other relevant legislation.

- Safeguard the charity’s assets and ensure proper financial management.

- Contribute to the development and implementation of the charity’s policies, goals, and objectives.

- Attend and actively participate in board meetings and annual events.

- Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work within personal and professional networks.

Skills and Experience:

We are looking for people who possess:

- A passion for the work Prosper do and the Wakefield District.

- A varied background of culture and ethnicity.

- Strategic vision and independent judgment.

- The ability to think creatively and offer constructive criticism.

- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

- Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the role.

- No experience is necessary for success in this role.

Desirable (but not essential) Experience:

- Expertise in areas such as finance, fundraising, marketing, law, HR, or community engagement.

- A ‘lived’ experience (having experienced hardship) helps to reflect the communities we support and understand the challenges they face.

- Understanding of the voluntary sector and the challenges faced by charities.

What We Offer:

- An opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of Wakefield & District underrepresented groups.

- A chance to work with a passionate and dedicated team.

- Personal development opportunities through trustee training and networking events.

- Reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.

How to Apply:

If you are interested in this rewarding opportunity to contribute to the success of Prosper, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience by 31st March 2026. Before applying, please read and download the supporting documents and information pack from the Prosper Wakefield District website.

Prosper is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of the community.

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Volunteer Researcher to support our Corporate Fundaising team. Your role will be pivotal in identifying and researching prospects and Charity of The Year Partnerships who align with our mission. You will help us grow our pipeline of supporters and inform personalised, strategic approaches that lead to meaningful engagement and transformational support.

About Us:

Rays of Sunshine is dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill young people and their families by granting wishes and providing ongoing support in hospital and within the community. We are seeking a motivated volunteer to support our major gifts team by conducting research and helping to build our partnerships pipeline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and research prospective corporate partners, with a focus on Charity of the Year opportunities

• Build and maintain a structured prospect pipeline to support new business development

• Research CSR strategies, ESG priorities, funding history, key decision-makers and employee engagement programmes

• Strong research and analytical skills

• Commercial awareness and understanding of corporate partnerships

• Excellent attention to detail

• Confident using LinkedIn, Companies House, Charity Commission and online research tools

• Self-motivated and comfortable working independently

What You’ll Gain:

• The opportunity to directly contribute to securing high-value corporate partnerships

• Insight into charity new business and pipeline strategy

• Experience working with a dynamic, ambitious team

• A chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families

• A reference upon successful completion of your volunteering

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.

Location: Remote / Hybrid (UK-based)
Type: Freelance / Contract – Flexible hours
Revenue Share: 70% to Solicitor / 30% to Guardian Light Enterprises LTD

About Guardian Light Enterprises LTD

At Guardian Light Enterprises LTD, we are more than a social enterprise — we are a beacon of hope for children, teenagers, and single-parent families facing homelessness, abuse, and hardship.

Our mission is to empower and protect the most vulnerable, giving them the tools, legal support, and guidance they need to build brighter futures. Every session you deliver as a solicitor doesn’t just provide legal advice — it gives someone dignity, hope, and a chance to reclaim their life.

Role Purpose

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated freelance solicitors to provide expert legal guidance to our beneficiaries. This role is flexible, allowing you to use your legal expertise to make a tangible difference in the lives of children, teenagers, and single-parent families who urgently need your support.

You will:

• Offer legal advice on family law, employment rights, housing, or other related areas

• Guide clients through complex legal processes with clarity and empathy

• Provide practical, actionable advice that empowers clients to take control of their lives

• Collaborate with GLF staff and volunteers to ensure clients are supported holistically

Hours & Commitment

• Recommended: 6–12 hours per month at the early stage

• Sessions can be scheduled flexibly to suit your availability and client needs

• Each session revenue split: 70% to you, 30% reinvested into GLF programs

Compensation & Payment

• Paid per session based on agreed client engagement

• Revenue sharing model ensures fair and transparent payment

• Payment schedule: monthly for simplicity, with detailed statements provided

• Additional incentives: high-performing solicitors may be offered Board Member or Advisory Board roles

Skills & Experience

• Qualified solicitor in the UK, practising in relevant areas (family law, housing, employment, or youth-focused law)

• Strong empathy, patience, and communication skills

• Comfortable working remotely and in collaboration with a mission-driven team

• Passion for social justice, children’s rights, and supporting vulnerable communities

Policies & Safeguarding

• DBS check required (Enhanced, £12.50 volunteer rate)

• Commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults

• Adherence to GLF Confidentiality, Data Protection, and Equality policies

Benefits

• Directly impact the lives of vulnerable children, teens, and families

• Flexible working hours to suit your schedule

• Opportunities for professional growth, networking, and community recognition

• Invitation to join our Advisory Board or Board of Directors as the enterprise scales

• Being part of a mission that transforms lives — where every hour you give makes a tangible difference

• Public recognition on GLF communications, website, and reports

Ideal Candidate Profile

You are someone who:

• Believes that legal guidance is a lifeline for those who have nowhere else to turn

• Feels fulfilled by using your expertise to create social impact

• Is proactive, compassionate, and able to work independently

• Wants to be part of a groundbreaking social enterprise at the startup stage

• Values ethical work, transparency, and accountability

If arts and crafts make you happy, imagine sharing that joy with someone who loves it just as much. As a volunteer visitor, you could spend time painting, drawing, crafting, or exploring creative spaces together building a real friendship while doing what you both enjoy. It’s about more than making art; it’s about connection, confidence, and creating moments that truly matter.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

Watch a video about this volunteer role here

This is an Out and about visit role which means your visits are likely to be longer, very active and the person you visit will often take an active part in planning your outings and activities in the community. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tends to be around a couple of hours, sometimes shorter or longer, depending on what you plan to do.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat
• Checking in on their well- being
• Going out to a local café/pub for a meal/drink
• Take part on community activities like visiting a place of interest, go shopping etc.
• Enjoying a walk
• A craft activity at home

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us: