Live volunteer roles

Are you interested in making a difference to the lives of children and young people? Is there a skatepark in your area? If so, this role could be for you.

We are a UK registered youth development charity that uses teaching and learning to skateboard in a structured and supportive environment as a platform to develop the skills and abilities of children and young people.

The Role: Chapter Leader

As a Chapter Leader with the Skateboarding Foundation (SF), your role is to set up and run a Local Chapter that gives young people access to skateboarding and life skills through the SF ‘Eduskate’ programme.

Training, materials, resources, equipment and ongoing support, advice and guidance will be provided.

Key responsibilities

Your key responsibilities include:

• Setting up and running the chapter
• Recruiting coaches
• Recruiting learners
• Coordinating the delivery of the coaching programme
• Raising funds and spreading the word
• Helping us monitor and evaluate the programme
• Giving three/four hours a month of your time

You’ll have overall responsibility for the chapter’s activities, compliance, and smooth running. You’ll provide direction and support to your chapter committee, chair meetings, and ensure volunteers, coaching programmes, and fundraising are well managed.

The role involves motivating the team, planning chapter development, and stepping in where needed to keep things on track. You’ll also liaise with the national Board of Trustees, keeping them informed of key decisions and changes. 

Strong leadership, organisation, and a passion for youth development (and ideally skateboarding) and the charity’s mission are essential.

The Wren Project is a volunteer-led charity that provides free, remote, one-to-one, ongoing listening support for people in distress and living with autoimmune disease. There are over 120 autoimmune diseases currently diagnosed by the NHS and these include Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis and Crohn's disease- they are all chronic illnesses which can have life altering impacts.

Volunteers at the Wren Project provide emotional listening support to people with autoimmune disease (our Wrens). In appointments, volunteers offer listening support, where Wrens can talk about how autoimmune disease is impacting their life, without giving advice or offering solutions. Volunteers join a regular fortnightly shift during which they meet with up to 2 Wrens in two 50-minute appointments. 

Volunteers do not need to have qualifications or any knowledge or experience of autoimmune disease. We are looking for warm, empathetic, caring and resilient individuals who want to help others and have the time to offer ongoing, non-judgemental, listening support. 

We are the only charity in the UK who provide support for all autoimmune diseases. Our vision is to build support and community for all four million people in the UK diagnosed with autoimmune disease. Our service would not be possible without the commitment, empathy and support of our volunteers.

WHAT VOLUNTEERING FOR US INVOLVES:

Application and training process:

• Send an application form via our website;

• Attend a group information and discovery conversation where you will learn more about the Wren Project and the listening role 

• Applicants will be invited to participate in a remote, 5-week training programme focusing on listening skills, courageous inquiry, turning towards difficulty and living with autoimmune disease;

• A final one-to-one assessment of readiness before being matched with a Wren.

• Please note, we access an applicant’s suitability for the role throughout the process.

The role:

• Join a regular fortnightly shift, whereby you will support two Wrens in two separate, one-to-one sessions of 50 minutes via telephone/video call/online.

• A self-reflective approach to learning and development supported by staff-led reflective practice sessions. Monthly attendance required for the initial six months.

• Access to ongoing support from other volunteers and the Operations team;

• Opportunities to support the charity in a variety of additional roles.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN VOLUNTEERS:

• A desire to support people in times of distress.

• An empathetic and understanding attitude.

• A commitment to offering ongoing support to those in distress and to reflect upon the experience.

• A quiet and private space to conduct appointments.

• Access to a computer, telephone and a reliable internet connection.

• Confidentiality, professionalism and reliability.

• The commitment to volunteer at the Wren Project for at least one year.

WHAT WE OFFER OUR VOLUNTEERS:

• Lifelong skills in deep listening.

• Extensive training in empathetic listening and supporting distress.

• An excellent opportunity to engage in ongoing personal reflection and development in a supportive charity environment.

• A self-reflective approach to learning and development.

• An insight into life with chronic illness and mental health.

Role Description:

This role sits within our Men’s Minds project, based in Feltham, Hounslow. The aim of the service is to improve men’s mental health outcomes by developing a mental health network supported and directed by the voices of its members.

This will be achieved through three service strands: 1) Peer support network, 2) Psychoeducation workshops, addressing common needs of men’s mental health 3) Outreach support to raise awareness of men’s mental health and promote this service.

The role of the Volunteer Group Facilitator will be to independently run a men’s group in line with WL Mind core values. This volunteer role is suitable for people with experience and interest in facilitating groups for men. In liaison with the Co-ordinator you will be responsible for planning and delivering groups. You will help support set up and clear up the weekly groups.

Staff within the service will provide person-centred, practical and emotional support, face to face in a group basis to individuals.

We are looking for someone who

• Someone who identifies as male
• Has lived experience of mental health challenges
• Are a non-judgmental and friendly individual
• To be able to provide a welcoming, authentic, and positive experience for all, being inclusive and embracing diversity
• To feel comfortable engaging with people with mental health challenges / difficult life experiences, by validating strengths and experiences and using empowering language to overcome negative self-talk
• Are empathic and understands the stigma / social bias's surrounding mental health
• Are willing to tap into their lived experiences and use their stories to inspire hope in others when appropriate
• Are comfortable with co-producing and co-facilitating peer led workshops
• To assist the Project Coordinator with admin and planning
• Are able to take on any ad hoc admin/support responsibilities
• Knowledge around safeguarding policies and procedures
• Knowledge and experience of risk management

Time commitment and expenses:

• Flexible hours between Monday-Thurs. We are looking for someone to commit to a minimum of at least 1 or 2 activities a week.
• We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role.
   

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering at Mind is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a nationally recognised charity. We provide initial and ongoing training, as well as plenty of opportunities for progression within the organisation. You will also be a part of a supportive team with great awareness of wellbeing and the mental health sector. We would be keen to work with you to develop your own interests and use your existing skills to support the project.

Please tell us why you would like to volunteer at Men’s Minds at WL Mind? (minimum 50 words)

Please share any relevant skills or experience you have for the role. This may include education, work or voluntary experience (minimum 100 words)

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As a Shop Volunteer you’ll be joining a friendly, welcoming team of volunteers and staff who support each other and have a lot of fun along the way. We value every volunteer and the unique perspective, skills and energy you bring. 

Whether you’re sorting donations, creating beautiful displays, or chatting to customers, every task you take on helps to build a more inclusive world. 

We value volunteer development, and as part of this role your can develop your skills further by training to become a till user alongside your regular shop volunteer responsibilities, or progressing into a Key volunteer, a role which includes opening, running, and closing the shop in the absence of the manager.

No matter your reason for volunteering – whether it’s to meet new people, build new skills or support Sense’s cause – there’s a place for you in one of our shops. 

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer 

You’ll spend time doing a range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do.

Key responsibilities: Till volunteer

Being a till volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop volunteer, however, when you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

If you are interested in becoming a till volunteer straight away, please select ‘Till volunteer’, as well as ‘Shop volunteer’, when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Key responsibilities: Key volunteer 

Being a Key volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop and till volunteer. However, if you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

If you are interested in becoming a Key volunteer straight away, please select ‘Key volunteer’ when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 
• Reasonable volunteer expenses reimbursed in line with our volunteer expenses policy.

Our values

Our values shape the way we behave and work alongside disabled people with complex needs to break down barriers. 

• We're creating change
• We're always learning
• We're better together

Sheffield Humanists bring non-religious people together to be happier and more fulfilled and to be a force for good in our community.

We are a Local Group of Humanists UK. All Humanists UK members and supporters in the local area are automatically part of the group. In case you are not familiar with humanism, it is a world view held by a large number of people who are not religious. Humanists base their understanding of the world on scientific evidence and reason, and centre their values on kindness and respect. If you would like to know more about humanism, please visit the Humanists UK website.

Sheffield Humanists aim to provide a range of activities for non-religious people living in and around Sheffield to meet, socialise, campaign, raise awareness of humanism, participate in local civic life and support each other. The Local Group represents Humanists UK and the local humanist community at public events and in public forums. Sheffield Humanists is led by a team of volunteers that organises events and activities throughout the year.

We are seeking a dedicated and driven Social Media Lead to join our Committee, to assist in delivering the activities of Sheffield Humanists.

As a Macmillan Information & Advice Hub Volunteer, you’ll get a chance to meet new people and be part of an amazing team of Volunteers. It is really important to us that we provide the practical and emotional assistance required to our clients and that's why both Macmillan and ourselves will give you the support, supervision, volunteer insurance, and training required for the role.

The Hub is a drop in facility aimed at giving advice to local residents living with cancer, their friends and family or even fellow professionals. You will be providing face-to-face assistance which will include giving out high quality Macmillan advice resources or signposting to other service (all with the support of an employed Co-ordinator). You will also be providing emotional support by showing empathy, actively listening, and providing encouragement and reassurance. The Hub is based in Hastings Town Centre (the old Town Hall) and you could volunteer for as little as half a day.

We are currently looking for 1 volunteer for Friday mornings and 1 for Friday afternoons

You will be reimbursed relevant costs and it's really easy to start the volunteering process with us. If you’re over 18 years old and ready to make a huge difference to a cancer patients life, just click on ‘Apply’ and start filling in your details!

Do you live within 10 miles of Antrim Area Hospital?

We’re currently looking for Companion Volunteers at Antrim Area Hospital. You don’t need medical experience or all the answers, just a kind heart, a listening ear, and a little time to give. Be there when it matters most and make a real difference by supporting patients who may simply need someone by their side.

Availability: Up to 3 hours per week - flexible to suit

Time: Mornings, afternoons or evenings

Criteria: Minimum 18 years or older

What you’ll do: 

• Visit different patients at Antrim Area Hospital, Bush Road, Antrim BT41 2RL
• Each visit may be with a different person, offering variety and new conversations
• Share a cup of tea, a chat, or simply quiet companionship to patients who are anxious or offer a break for families
• Be there when family members cannot, outside of normal visiting hours

You’d be a great fit if you’re:

• Caring and compassionate nature
• Patience and good listening skills
• Comfortable with sensitive topics, such as death, dying and bereavement
• Comfortable with email and completing a brief visit report
• Respectful of boundaries and confidentiality

What you’ll gain:

• A sense of meaning and purpose
• Thorough training and continued support
• A friendly network of volunteers
• Recognition for your time
• Travel expenses covered

Kindness doesn’t have to be big to be life changing.

Our volunteers are vital members of the Citizens Advice Barnet team.

If you’re looking for a worthwhile experience and excellent training, there may be a suitable volunteering role waiting for you at Citizens Advice Barnet.

Volunteering is a great way to contribute, use and gain skills, make friends and feel part of an enthusiastic team.

Most of the work we do is carried out by highly trained volunteers. We very much value the work of all our volunteers, who strongly uphold the aims and principles of the Citizens Advice service.

After successfully completing the initial training, you will:

• assist clients on reception,
• call back clients who have been referred to us,
• give advice via email,
• speak to clients on our helpline,
• support clients in person at drop-in advice sessions throughout Barnet,
• undertake administrative tasks supporting the advice team.

Purpose of the role

• help provide an effective and efficient advice service to members of the public,
• help influence government and other organisations by collecting evidence of the effect of their actions on the lives of clients for the Research & Campaigns team to use,
• help us raise essential funds to continue our work by collecting evidence of the need we address and our impact.

Qualities Required:

• being open, approachable and non-judgmental,
• ability to communicate effectively in writing and in person,
• a good level of literacy and numeracy skills,
• a good level of IT literacy,
• ability to commit to 2 days a week for at least 9 months,
• ability to commit to and work within the aims, principles and policies of the Citizens Advice service.

Join our amazing volunteer team to make a real difference to people living with sight loss. You’ll be supporting people to come together in a group setting, to benefit from each other’s company, knowledge and encouragement, leading to reduced isolation, stronger networks of support, and new friendships. You can support with either local and regional telephone groups or face-to-face groups.

What you’ll be doing:
• Meeting and greeting group members on arrival or joining virtually.
• Creating a warm and welcoming environment.
• Supporting group conversations.
• Assisting with group activities (if appropriate).

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.

• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• 1 reference Criminal record check

Location

Region

• Scotland

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An interest in group or community work. • A sociable personality. • A commitment to working towards a society where people with sight loss are equal participants.

We’re looking for a warm, British Sign Language Volunteer to provide in house support to Deaf women living in our refuge. This role is all about connection, inclusion and helping women feel fully involved in day to day life within the service. As a BSL Volunteer, you’ll support communication between service users and staff, help women engage in activities, and be a friendly, reassuring presence in the house.

What you will be doing

• Providing British Sign Language support to Deaf service users within the refuge
• Supporting women to take part in activities
• Helping women communicate their needs to staff
• Offering support with appointments, as and when needed

The skills you need

• Fluent or confident British Sign Language users
• Friendly, patient, and inclusive, with a genuine interest in supporting women
• Able to communicate professionally and sensitively within a refuge setting

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join a distinctive and values-driven organisation. We are seeking a new Treasurer to join the Board of Trustees and play a crucial role in supporting the organisation’s sustainable future. While prior knowledge of brain injury is not required, the Treasurer is expected to demonstrate an interest in  brain injury, as well as in the Headway community, and to share the organisation’s mission and values.

The Treasurer will lead on the financial strategy, work closely with the Director of Finance, ensuring that financial insight informs the Board’s strategic thinking. This will include thorough pre-review of financial reports ahead of each Board meeting, chairing Finance & Audit Committee meetings, and presenting financial reports to the Board and at the AGM.

The role holder, will support the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities for the charity’s ambitious strategy and governance. They will work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and provide guidance to the Director of Finance and Chief Executive on the strategic management of finances.

Other

Apply the Headway London values and behaviours to every aspect of the role at all times.

Protect and enhance the interests and reputation of Headway London internally and externally.

Commit to the organisational principles of: coproduction equity, diversity and inclusion sustainability.

Headway London is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we are committed to ensuring that all staff are motivated, skilled and rewarded by their work. We welcome applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, colour, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age and other protected status as required by law. We promote and protect human rights; they are the foundation of what we do. We want to be an inclusive place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come and contribute their unique strengths and perspectives. We are focused on equality and believe that all the fascinating characteristics that make us different, make us more able to deliver our life-changing work with passion and creativity.

Our vision for volunteering

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

The difference you will make to cats and people

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

You can expect us to

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

 What we need from you

You’ll be:

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

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

· encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

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

Time expectation

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

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

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

Volunteer Animal Fosterer

RSPCA North West London and South Hertfordshire Branch

Could you give an animal a safe place to stay while they wait for their forever home?

Opening your home to a foster animal can transform their life. By temporarily caring for a cat, rabbit, guinea pig or other small animal, you will give them the security, attention and affection they need while they prepare for adoption.

Some animals simply need a comfortable temporary home. Others may need help building their confidence, recovering from treatment or becoming accustomed to family life. Whatever their circumstances, the care you provide will support their wellbeing, improve their socialisation and help us understand the type of permanent home in which they will thrive.

You will not be doing this alone. Our team will guide you through the fostering process and provide training, ongoing support, equipment, food and veterinary care. We can also reimburse other expenses agreed with us in advance.

What you will be doing

While an animal is in your care, you will:

• Provide suitable accommodation and a safe, comfortable environment in accordance with our guidance.

• Feed, provide fresh water and groom the animal as advised.

• Spend time helping them feel safe, settled and loved.

• Observe their behaviour and wellbeing, keeping in touch with our animal welfare team.

• Give any agreed medication or support their rehabilitation, where appropriate.

• Transport them to routine or emergency veterinary appointments when required.

• Help us promote the animal and share what you have learnt about their personality, so we can find the right permanent home for them.

• Provide plenty of appropriate play, enrichment and, when they are ready, cuddles!

Who we are looking for

This role may be right for you if:

• You are aged 18 or over and have good experience of caring for animals.

• Everyone in your household is comfortable with welcoming a foster animal into your home.

• You have the time, patience and commitment to care for an animal whose needs may change.

• You live within the area covered by our Branch, as shown on the accompanying map.

• You can collect supplies from our Eastcote office and transport your foster animal to veterinary appointments, including urgent appointments when necessary.

• Any animals already living in your home have been spayed or neutered. We understand that this may not always be possible for medical reasons, so please talk to us if this applies to you.

Previous fostering experience is helpful but not essential. We will provide the training and support you need.

What you will gain

As a volunteer fosterer, you will:

• Make a direct and lasting difference to animals who need a safe place to recover, grow in confidence or prepare for adoption.

• Experience the satisfaction of helping an animal take the next step towards a loving permanent home.

• Receive a comprehensive induction and fostering training.

• Develop new knowledge and practical animal-care skills.

• Become part of a friendly community of staff and volunteers.

• Gain valuable volunteering experience that you can include on your CV.

Finding the right match

Every animal is different. Some may be ready for adoption, while others might need rehabilitation, medication or additional time and patience.

We will take the time to understand your home, experience, availability and preferences. This will help us match you with a foster animal whose needs suit your circumstances. You can discuss each potential placement with us before deciding whether it is right for you.

Interested?

We would love to hear from you if you could offer an animal a safe and caring temporary home.

All our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and an initial trial period. We will ask you to provide details of two referees. Depending on the role and the animals you will foster, you may also need to complete specific training and sign a volunteer agreement before you begin.

Our vision for volunteering

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

The difference you will make to cats and people

If you enjoy driving and would love to use those skills to help our cats, this could be the role for you. Our transport volunteers provide vital assistance to our teams and volunteer groups in the local area by transporting equipment, litter, food – and even cats! They have the essential role of connecting our network of volunteers, sites, vets and supporters.

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection, we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help.

You can expect us to

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

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Arranging and transporting equipment, litter and cat food
• Transporting cats to and from vets, foster homes and centres
• Transporting equipment to and from events
•