Live volunteer roles

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

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button.

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

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

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

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

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

Volunteering in the shop

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

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

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

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

Skills and experiences we seek

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

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

What happens next?

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

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button.

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

Volunteer Safeguarding Lead  for Watford and Three Rivers Refugee Partnership (WTRRP)

Job summary:  The Safeguarding Lead will play a crucial role in developing, implementing, and overseeing safeguarding policies and procedures. This individual will work closely with staff, volunteers, and the Committee to promote a safe environment and handle any safeguarding concerns effectively.

WTRRP is a registered charity (England, reg no 1162226) that exists to support people in the Watford Borough and Three Rivers District of West Hertfordshire, who do not yet have status in the UK, or who have specific needs related to their application process or welfare. Currently WTRRP has around 160 live cases (defined as a family unit or individual currently in need of our help).

WTRRP is run by a Committee, which includes several Trustees. The Committee meets typically every 2 months and also for an Annual General Meeting, but it also provides day-to-day support to our staff members (Casework Coordinator and part-time Office Manager) and to our ~80 volunteers.

The main roles of the charity are to run a drop-in session every Tuesday (at St Mary’s Church in central Watford), a social hub at the same time, and to provide financial and other assistance to its clients for their application process for leave to remain in the UK.

Commitment: [ approximately 5 hours per week]

Key Responsibilities:

Policy Development: Develop and regularly review safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure they are up-to-date and compliant with legal and best practice standards.

Training: Organize safeguarding training sessions for staff and volunteers and review exisiting training.

Support: Provide guidance and support to staff and volunteers on safeguarding matters, including responding to concerns and allegations.

Monitoring: Monitor the implementation of safeguarding policies and practices across the organization.

Reporting: Maintain accurate records of safeguarding concerns and incidents, and ensure timely reporting to relevant authorities and stakeholders.

Review: Conduct regular reviews of safeguarding practices and make recommendations for improvements.

Key Requirements:

Experience: Prior experience in safeguarding, child protection, or a related field is preferred. Experience in a leadership or advisory role is advantageous.

Knowledge: Strong understanding of safeguarding legislation and best practices. Knowledge of working with vulnerable individuals is essential.

Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

Commitment: A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.  The role will require approximately 5 hours per week.

Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in safeguarding, child protection, or related areas are desirable. Training in safeguarding is a plus.

What We Offer:

Impact: The opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of those we support.

Support: NCVO safeguarding Lead training and support from the Committee.

Development: Networking with other safeguarding professionals.

Flexibility: The role is flexible and can be adapted to fit around your other commitments.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about safeguarding and want to contribute to our mission, please contact us for an intial discussion about the role or application form. Please visit our website for more information about the Partnership.

We're looking for enthusiastic and community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team at our charity shop in The Brittox, Devizes. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or support a great cause, there’s a place for you with us.

Julian House is a charity dedicated to making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. We run several projects and every year we help thousands of people out of homelessness, into employment, away from domestic abuse, and more.

Our Charity Shops recycle used or unwanted items that people have donated and make sure they go to a good home which reduces waste and helps the environment.

No two days are the same – you could be:

• Running the till and delivering fantastic customer service
• Sorting donations and preparing them for display
• Keeping the shop looking its best
• Steaming and presenting clothes beautifully
• Pricing items to reflect their true value

What’s in it for you?

Volunteering with us is a great way to:

• Build skills in customer service, retail, and admin
• Boost your confidence and meet new people
• Be part of a friendly and welcoming team
• Make a real difference in your community

We're flexible around your schedule, just a few hours a week can make a big impact! Out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed, if agreed in advance, and you’ll have a dedicated Volunteer Manager to support you throughout your journey with Julian House.

Across the UK, almost one million children are affected by domestic abuse every year. At Hestia, we know how important it is for children to feel safe, supported, and free to simply enjoy being children again. That’s why, every summer, our refuges create spaces filled with warmth, play, and joy – and we’re looking for wonderful volunteers to help us make that happen!

Each year during the school summer holidays, we run a six‑week Summer Play Scheme, offering fun activities and special outings for mothers and their children living in our refuges.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the Summer Play Scheme gives families a chance to reconnect, laugh, and build happy memories together during what can be an incredibly difficult time.

If you’re passionate about supporting women and children who have fled domestic abuse – and you love getting creative, playful, and involved – we’d love to hear from you! Our volunteers work alongside our Children and Family Workers to bring daily activities and outings to life, helping to make this summer feel brighter, safer, and full of joy for the families we support

Bangor 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.

Bangor Humanists aim to provide a range of activities for non-religious people living in and around Bangor 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. Bangor Humanists is led by a team of volunteers that organises events and activities throughout the year.

We are seeking a dedicated and driven Administrator to join our Committee, to assist in delivering the activities of Bangor Humanists.

Take a look at the full role description and person specification to help you decide whether the role is right for you, including what you would get out of the role and what we expect you would bring to the role.

Whatever your background, or prior experiences, if you’re passionate about creating an inclusive, effective humanist community in and around Bangor, we’d love to hear from you.

Watford and Three Refugees Partnership is a charity offering practical and emotional support to asylum seekers, migrants and refugees in Watford and Three Rivers. We are looking for someone who has a couple of hours a week to help some of our clients.

Would you like to join the ESOL team within our charity that provides English language and literacy support to our clients?

Role description:

You will be teaching literacy to 1 or 2 clients a week. This will be face to face teaching at St Mary’s Church, Watford between 12.15 and 1.30pm but times can be subject to change.

Essential:

• A teacher specialised in Adult literacy with a minimum of Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) or equivalent
• Previous experience
• Familiar with students whose English is not students’ first language.

Person Specification:

· Friendly, approachable, and respectful with good interpersonal and communication skills

· Patience, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude

· Commitment to equality, inclusion, and safeguarding

What We Offer:

· Induction, training and ongoing support

· A welcoming and inclusive team environment

· The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others

Do you enjoy a good chat and meeting new people?    
   
We are looking for a friendly volunteer who would like to spend time with a lady we support in Worcester!  

“Hi! I live in Worcester and I am supported by Dimensions. I would love a buddy to spend time with and enjoy a cup of tea together” 
   
If you would like to make a difference and make a great friend along the way, we would love to hear from you!   

Activities will include:    

• Sharing your time and company.

• Friendships and chats over a cup of tea together   

We are looking for a volunteer who is:   

• Friendly, enthusiastic and good company    

• Comfortable spending time with people with learning disabilities and autism.   

• Reliable/dependable and willing to commit to volunteer regularly (exact times/days can be discussed)   

A DBS check and two-character references will be required for this role.    

What you’ll gain from being a Dimensions volunteer:   

Dimensions provide support for autistic people and people with learning disabilities across the UK.      
 
Our volunteers play a vital role in our work and in return, we support them with:     

• Access to free online training (with access to 800 plus courses)   

• Comprehensive support from professional and friendly Dimensions staff   

• Reasonable expenses may be reimbursed at manager’s discretion    

• An opportunity to gain real experience in the social care sector   

Want to apply for this role?   

If you’d like to be a Dimensions volunteer, please get in touch!    

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

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats and kittens each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups. We have branches across the UK, all of which help our cats in different ways. Branches take in stray and abandoned cats and ensure they receive the veterinary care and attention they deserve; help raise funds, promote neutering and help spread cat welfare messages. Our branch team leader volunteers lead their local team by supporting and managing volunteers within their group, maintaining communications with both volunteers and employees, and helping promote a positive and professional image of Cats Protection.

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

​Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

​Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

We're looking for enthusiastic and community-minded volunteers to join our friendly team at our charity shop in Bank Street, Melksham. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or support a great cause, there’s a place for you with us.

Julian House is a charity dedicated to making a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. We run several projects and every year we help thousands of people out of homelessness, into employment, away from domestic abuse, and more.

Our Charity Shops recycle used or unwanted items that people have donated and make sure they go to a good home which reduces waste and helps the environment.

No two days are the same – you could be:

• Running the till and delivering fantastic customer service
• Sorting donations and preparing them for display
• Keeping the shop looking its best
• Steaming and presenting clothes beautifully
• Pricing items to reflect their true value

What’s in it for you?

Volunteering with us is a great way to:

• Build skills in customer service, retail, and admin
• Boost your confidence and meet new people
• Be part of a friendly and welcoming team
• Make a real difference in your community

We're flexible around your schedule, just a few hours a week can make a big impact! Out-of-pocket expenses can be reimbursed, if agreed in advance, and you’ll have a dedicated Volunteer Manager to support you throughout your journey with Julian House.

Bangor 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.

Bangor Humanists aim to provide a range of activities for non-religious people living in and around Bangor 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. Bangor Humanists is led by a team of volunteers that organises events and activities throughout the year.

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

Take a look at the full role description and person specification (.pdf or .docx) to help you decide whether the role is right for you, including what you would get out of the role and what we expect you would bring to the role.

Whatever your background, or prior experiences, if you’re passionate about creating an inclusive, effective humanist community in and around Bangor, we’d love to hear from you.

Why we want you

Food banks provide essential support to people facing crisis in our community. Brent Foodbank is looking to build an event team of ad-hoc volunteers to help at a variety of engaging and rewarding events. You’ll play a key role in raising awareness, collecting donations, and supporting us in community events. By helping with events, you can make a real difference to people’s lives providing vital help and support in your local community.

What you will be doing:

·Volunteering at supermarket food drives and fundraising events.

·Representing Brent Foodbank at job fairs and recruitment events.

·Attending information sessions to raise awareness of our services.

·Supporting community events and outreach activities.

·Engaging with members of the public and FAQ.

·Helping with set-up, pack-down, and general event support.

The skills you need:

·Confident communicator.

·Friendly and welcoming.

·Dependable and committed.

·Comfortable engaging with the public.

·Passionate about helping others.

What’s in it for you:

-The opportunity to support people facing crisis in Brent.

-Flexible, ad-hoc volunteering to fit around your schedule.

-Volunteer references available on request.

-Gain experience in events, outreach, and community engagement.

-A chance to build valuable skills in communication and public engagement.

-Meet new people and be part of a supportive team.