Person to person volunteer volunteer volunteer roles

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

Lead Volunteer Role Description

• To update the Volunteers’ Rota from the Court diary and ensure that each Volunteer in the team and the CCSS office has a copy. Wherever possible, the Rota should be kept on a computer for updating and emailed to the rest of the team and the office. 

• Ensure sufficient numbers of Volunteers are on duty for effective and appropriate support for bereaved families and witnesses who attend the Inquests.

• To arrange and re-arrange the Rota between the Volunteers, noting any holiday or leave of absence dates.

• Ensure a finalised Rota is sent to the office at the end of each month in order for volunteer expenses to be checked and processed.

• To ensure that all the Volunteers have each other’s contact details and the Volunteer emergency contact details are included in the court file and updated when changes occur.

• To ensure monthly and yearly statistics are kept up to date and to send the Monthly Statistics to the Volunteer who collates the stats at the end of each month.

• To ensure there are sufficient Report Forms for the Volunteers’ use if collecting stats in paper format.  If alternative methods of collecting stats are used, to ensure that the team are all using the same method.

• To inform the Operations & Training Manager and the CCSS office of the need for more Volunteers or of any leavers.

• To assist with the recruitment interviews and induction of new Volunteers.

• Responsible for the support of new Volunteers and their final sign off.  Where the Lead Volunteer has concerns about the level of support required or the competency of a new Volunteer, they should refer those concerns to the Operations & Training Manager.

• To organise Volunteer team meetings (minimum of 3 meetings per year) and to inform the Operations & Training Manager and the CCSS office via email of the dates of these so they can attend if necessary/appropriate.

• To immediately refer any serious concerns raised by the Coroner or Coroner’s Officers to the CEO.

• To inform the CEO immediately of any issues or concerns that arises at the Court that might impact on the CCSS.

• To provide local information for the Helpline Court Information Sheet when requested.

• To ensure the team follow the practices of the court and work in partnership with the court staff.
• To forward any testimonials about the support provided by our volunteers to the CCSS office.

• Responsibility for maintaining the stock of CCSS leaflets.

• Organise cover for themselves when they are on holiday or need to take time off.

About Us

The International Humanity Foundation (IHF) is a 501(c)(3) international non-profit

organization founded in 2001. We provide education and safe Children's Homes to

impoverished children in Indonesia, Kenya, and Thailand through our five IHF Centers.

Our Mission

1. Educate Marginalized Children: Activate their highest potential and nurture

loving communities. The happiness of our world's children rises above all political

and religious differences and equates to the quality of our world's happiness

tomorrow.

2. Educate Global Citizens: Through communication and real-life experiences,

both online and in person, we teach about the realities of marginalized

communities and impart practical skills for aiding needed efforts, thus giving a

voice to the voiceless.

Our Vision

“To develop global leaders with cross-cultural experiences and respect for different

cultures from varying socioeconomic backgrounds, equipped to make decisions that

serve, positively impact, promote, and protect the dignity and humanity of people

everywhere.”

Volunteer Role

We are looking for dedicated volunteers to join our team at the IHF Indonesia Center in

Bali. Volunteers will gain invaluable experience in international team leadership,

coordination of center activities, and engagement with the local community.

Responsibilities

● Participate in rotational assignments in the core components of the International

○ Center operations

○ Legalities

○ Community development

○ Finance

○ Fundraising

○ Media and communications

○ And more

● Assist in coordinating center activities

● Report to the CEO and Center Directors

What We Offer

● Accommodation: Room with bed and mattress provided.

● Electricity and Wi-Fi: Stable network to carry on online tasks.

● Global Leadership Development (GLD): A one-year training program equipping

you with skills to run an international organization as a director.

● Stipend:

○ $35/month for the first 3 months

○ $65/month for months 4-6

○ $85/month for months 7-9

○ $100/month for months 10-12

● Potential Employment: After one year of successfully completing the GLD

training, volunteers may be considered for employment positions within the

organization, if available.

Requirements

● Minimum of a high school diploma

● Basic computer knowledge

● Smartphone for communication

● Valid police clearance/good conduct certificate issued by the government

● Fluent in English

● Able to use Zoom

● Honest, well-behaved individual with no criminal record

● Ability to work with children and adhere to both national and international laws

governing our operations

Join Us

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of marginalized children and

eager to develop your leadership skills in a global context, we invite you to apply for this

rewarding volunteer position. Help us build a brighter future, one child and one community at a time 

***Please note that this is an opportunity based in Nottingham in the United Kingdom and we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***

What is the purpose of this role?

To support people aged 18+ in the community by leading a series of guided walks around open spaces in Nottingham city (and Nottinghamshire).

Walk Leaders can make a difference by creating safe, enjoyable, and accessible walking opportunities that enhance health, wellbeing, and social connection.

What impact does this role have?

Provides accessible, guided health walks across Nottingham’s parks and open spaces. The walks encourage a healthy lifestyle by combining exercise with opportunities to socialise, helping people stay active, build friendships, and explore their local community.

What activities might you be involved in?

· Offering a friendly welcome to all walkers, especially those joining for the first time

· Providing a short briefing before the walk to ensure all participants are prepared

· Making sure the walk is safe and accessible for participants on the day of the walk

· Taking the lead in walks and ensuring they are safe, friendly and enjoyable and well managed

· Addressing and resolving issues that arise during walks, following guidance from your Line Manager, and promptly reporting any incidents or concerns to them.

· Providing information about other Age UK Notts services and other walks offered by the scheme, and basic information about how to keep active

· Ensuring all required paperwork is properly completed

· Attending occasional walk leaders’ meetings, one-to-one meetings and relevant training

What are we looking for?

Ø  A genuine interest in the wellbeing of people and community engagement

Ø  Friendly, welcoming and empowering with good communication skills

Ø  Knowledgeable about the basics of the benefits of walking and physical activity

Ø  Reliable, punctual, honest and well-organised

Ø  Able to volunteer independently but with guidance and support

Ø  Confident at speaking in front of small groups

Ø  Able to take control and be assertive when needed

Ø  Ability to complete basic paperwork punctually and accurately

Ø  Willing to observe and learn from an experienced leader before taking on independent leadership

When would you be needed to volunteer?

The role can be flexible around your availability. Most volunteers lead walks weekly or monthly, with walks lasting 20–60 minutes. These may be starter/easy walks or wellbeing-focused walks. At times, we may request your support to provide cover at short notice if required.

 While we are looking to expand, our current walks in the New Year will take place on Monday mornings at the Arboretum, Wednesday mornings at Highfields Park/Lakeside and Thursday mornings in Sneinton.

What training will you be given?

You will be given all the training you need to enable you to carry out your role. This will include a one-day Ramblers Wellbeing Walks, Walk Leader Course, risk assessment guidance and a thorough departmental induction to provide you with further information about your role. 

What can you gain from this opportunity?

· The chance to make a difference to a person’s life

· Ongoing support, ensuring your volunteering experience is a fulfilling and positive one

· A comprehensive training programme including the opportunity for further training (e.g. First Aid)

· The opportunity to learn new skills

· Experience to add to your CV

· The opportunity to meet new people and make new friends

· Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses as defined in the Age UK Notts Volunteer Handbook

Additional Information

Please note a Basic DBS (Disclosure and Barring check) is required for this role which will be undertaken by the Charity at no cost to the volunteer, after being offered the role.

We are looking for volunteers who have availability to support our walks across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 

We are looking for volunteers who can support a minimum of one walk per week, every week (time and days tbc)

***Please note that we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***

Mind In Enfield and Barnet combines over 50 years of experience to improve peoples mental health in Enfield, Barnet and beyond. We are led by lived experience and driven by a passion to support and protect people’s mental health in ways that they want.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Volunteer Meet and Greet to support the Therapy Team at Mind in Enfield and Barnet (MiEB). This role involves sitting at the reception desk and acting as a first point of contact, helping to create a friendly, welcoming and supportive environment for clients, visitors and staff. You will offer clear directional guidance, practical assistance and information about services and activities, helping people feel safe, comfortable and supported when they arrive. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys engaging with others and contributing to a positive, inclusive space for individuals accessing mental health services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Help create a friendly and inclusive environment by greeting clients and visitors in a warm and professional manner

• Cover the reception desk and act as a first point of contact for enquiries

• Provide clear directional guidance and escort individuals to their destination where appropriate

• Ensure clients, visitors and staff sign in and out accurately

• Maintain accurate logs of calls and emails in line with service procedures

• Help maintain a tidy, calm and welcoming reception and waiting area

We welcome individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges to apply.

Within our organisation, volunteers are highly valued and essential to delivering our services effectively. We encourage applications from everyone, regardless of their background. This includes people who have personal or professional experience with mental health challenges. We focus on providing comprehensive training, guidance, and supervision to ensure volunteers feel confident and capable in their roles. We support our volunteers' success and offer opportunities to network and socialise with trustees, staff, and fellow volunteers. We are committed to recognising the meaningful contribution every volunteer makes to our community.

This is a part-time, volunteer (unpaid) role with flexible hours ranging from a minimum of 1 day (3–5 hours) up to 20 hours per week. Hours can be scheduled on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 10:00am and 3:00pm. Please see the attached document for further details.

Please apply to the volunteering email address attached, with a current CV and covering letter explaining your interest in this role. 

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 Club:

Youth Club is a place for young people aged 14-19 to come and play games, learn new skills, make and strengthen friendships and build a sense of belonging. Regular activities include classic youth club games such as table tennis, pool, foosball, board and card games.

Youth club takes place at Tooting Hub- Beechcroft Road, Tooting, SW17 7B

About the Role:

CARAS is looking for volunteer Football Assistants to support our Football sessions on Mondays, 5.30-7pm in Balham.

Football coaching sessions are led by Fulham FC Kicks programme weekly, supported by CARAS volunteers to offer welcome to young people.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities

· Welcoming young people to the session;

· Helping young people to register for sessions;

· Join in and be role model for young refugees and asylum seekers;

· Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;

· Following FULHAM FC safeguarding policy and CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, online communications and all other policies as relevant.

Requirements:

Essential

· To be 18 years or older;

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

· To be reliable and punctual;

· Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English;

· The ability to volunteer on Monday evenings for a minimum of four months;

· Currently resident in the UK;

- A love of football, and wanting to encourage others to play.

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

· Able to attend compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding prior to start of role

Desirable

· Knowledge of community languages, such as (including Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali and Spanish).

Through volunteering with us you will:

· Meet new members of your local community;

· Learn about different cultures;

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

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

· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;

· Develop your skills and competencies;

· Be able to access relevant training;

Volunteer Role: HR & Volunteer Recruitment Team

Location: Hybrid / London (Must be based in London)

Time Commitment: Flexible (approx. 3–5 hours per week) with occasional attendance at unit nights or recruitment events.

The Heart of Our Growth

Are you a people person with an eye for talent? The Ranger Cadets are expanding rapidly across England, and we need a dedicated HR & Volunteer Recruitment Team in London to ensure we find, onboard, and retain the best possible mentors for our cadets.

Whether you have a professional background in Human Resources or simply love connecting people with great opportunities, this role is vital to our mission of ensuring every young person is "Prepared for Life."

Your Strategic Impact

You will be the first point of contact for potential volunteers, guiding them through their journey into the organization. Your team will lead on:

• Talent Attraction: Creating and managing adverts for both Uniformed Adult Volunteers and Non-Uniformed Support Staff.

• The Onboarding Journey: Managing the "end-to-end" process, from the initial enquiry and interview to reference checks and DBS clearances.

• Welcome & Induction: Ensuring every new volunteer feels supported and informed before they even step foot into a unit.

• Strategic Growth: Working with the Chief Ranger and Launch Teams to identify recruitment needs in new areas.

• Volunteer Experience: Developing initiatives to keep our volunteers engaged, rewarded, and motivated.

What We Are Looking For

• Excellent Communicators: You are the "face" of the organization for new applicants; a warm, professional, and helpful manner is essential.

• Organisational Skills: Ability to track multiple applications and ensure no one "falls through the cracks."

• Discretion & Integrity: Comfortable handling sensitive information and background checks with the utmost confidentiality.

• Passion for People: A genuine interest in finding the right "fit" for our units to ensure long-term success.

Why Join the HR & Recruitment Team?

• Shape the Culture: You have the unique opportunity to choose the leaders who will mentor the next generation.

• Professional Experience: Enhance your CV with high-level HR, recruitment, and safeguarding experience within the charity sector.

• Flexible Volunteering: Much of this role can be done remotely, making it perfect for those who want to help but cannot attend every weekly parade night.

Help Us Build a World-Class Team

Behind every successful cadet is a team of dedicated volunteers. Help us find them.

RANGER CADETS

#PreparedForLife

Our challenge
Brain tumours do not discriminate and they do not respect boundaries. They can strike anyone, at any age. And they strike quickly.

The Support Team at The Brain Tumour Charity are aiming to address the clear gap in emotional support available to those affected by a brain tumour diagnosis, by expanding their counselling service. We know the difference that talking therapy can make and our goal is to reach more people, ensuring everyone that wants it, gets the support that they need.

How can you help?
As a Counselling Assessment Volunteer for this service, you will be the first point of call for new clients entering in to the service. This role will require you to talk to a wide range of people - from those newly diagnosed, to others at end of life and also bereaved. As a Counselling Assessment Volunteer, you will be required to:

• Carry out pre-booked counselling assessments with clients who have self-referred themselves into the counselling service
• Gather information through the assessment about the client’s circumstances, explore their needs, explain how the service can help and discuss with them whether the counselling service is suitable
• Confidently follow our safeguarding process, to ensure risk is assessed and appropriate steps are taken to safeguard each client’s well-being
• Observe confidentiality in line with our organisational policy
• Keep accurate and appropriate records on our internal database

We’re looking for...
Someone who is empathetic and supportive in nature, and who is excited by the opportunity to bring this counselling service to the wider brain tumour community. You will also need:

• Experience in providing emotional support to others, perhaps through another role focusing on bereavement, mental health or life limiting illnesses
• Ideally have had previous training in counselling, mental health first aid, or other relevant course
• Ability to work autonomously
• Relevant IT skills in order to maintain appropriate and accurate records on our counselling database
• As this is a home-based role, you will need access to a telephone and computer that you are happy to use for this service

The Brain Tumour Charity is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals belonging to minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented communities.

What can you gain from volunteering?

• You’ll have the opportunity to apply your existing support skills in a new way
• You will join a pioneering team, who are passionate about expanding the counselling service
• You will be supported in your role and will have a check in and check out with a team member before and after each shift

Time commitment
We are looking for a commitment of 2 hours per week (minimum) which would allow you to carry out 2 assessments. All assessments must be carried out between 9:30am-4pm, Monday - Friday, and we would ask all volunteers to work on a rota system, volunteering at the same times each week.

Practical considerations
You will receive a full induction to The Brain Tumour Charity and any specific training for the role, as well as ongoing direction from one of the team, who will be your key contact. We carry out references for all individuals who will be volunteering with us on a regular basis. Volunteers will be required to complete some internal training, data protection and disclosure documentation before commencing the role. Volunteers must be over 18. We may close applications early if we recieve a high number of applications for this role. If we receive a high volume of applications, we may close the role early, so we’d encourage you to apply at your earliest opportunity.

Need support with the application process?

We are committed to being inclusive and recognise that there may be a number of ways we could support you through the application process. If there’s any adjustments we can make to help you fully engage in the process, don’t hesitate to let us know by getting in touch with the Volunteering Team.

Key dates

Interviews: w/c 23 February 2026 and w/c 3 March 2026

Induction: w/c 9 March 2026

Volunteers are needed to help out at our Parent Carer bereavement support groups on either a Saturday or a Sunday.  This will be in a group setting and you will be working alongside two fully trained adults. 

Duties and responsibilities:

Helping setting up the rooms and resources for activities;

Assist in providing food and drinks for attendees;

Join in group discussions as you feel able and supporting attendees with emotional issues;

Co-facilitate group activities;

Lead activities and provide information on grief to attendees as you feel able depending on experience;

Provide feedback in discussion with Facilitator to Clinical Lead.

You will be offered supervision after attending. 

A charity  based in  Croydon, Surrey, London, UK is looking for volunteer Charity Team Assistants; to volunteer 30 unpaid hours per week. The Charity serves a multi ethnic community especially people from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds. 

Responsibilities:

• To assist GNDFuk's permanent instructors in finding and providing creative forms of engagement for both our youth and adult programmes.
• To assist in project and schedule planning including setting and clearing up 30 minutes before and after projects and events
• To assist in ensuring that activities are executed safely
• To assist in coordinating events and activities to encourage the objectives of GNDFuk

Person Specification:

• Someone enthusiastic and creative who is committed to working towards the achievements of the charities objectives.
• Knowledege of Black and ethnic minority tradition/culture is preferable however not essential.
• Experience is desirable.

This is a non-paid one year temporary position however accommodation and maintenance will be provided.

All interested candidates are required to send us a letter of application, a resume, and contact to the email provided. If your application is accepted, you will be invited for a telephone interview. Any applications received after the closing date will not be considered unless we have been unable to find a suitable candidate for this vacancy.

Successful candidates will require a DBS/POLICE check and references prior to commencement.

Youth Support Volunteer at The Zone

Thank you for your interest in volunteering!

Volunteers are a valued part of our organisation and integral to furthering the work we do. We offer extensive training and support so that volunteers can learn and develop whilst helping to keep our services running to a high standard.

If you are interested in working with young people, and have skills, experience and commitment to share with others, then we may have the perfect volunteering opportunity for you…

Our dedicated team of Youth Support Volunteers offer young people a safe and confidential space to talk whilst providing information about sexual health, mental health, housing, signposting to other organisations and referrals to projects within The Zone and other agencies.

Our volunteer programme runs twice throughout the year, with new intakes often taking place in spring and autumn.

What is a Youth Support Volunteer?

A Youth Support Volunteer is a volunteer who has completed our training and provides support and information to young people at The Zone.

The most important thing for a Youth Support Volunteer to know is that supporting young people can be very rewarding but it can also be very hard and emotionally demanding, especially when the help you can offer a young person is limited.

It is not a volunteering position to consider for a person who is emotionally vulnerable and who thinks it will make them feel better to help others as sometimes this is not possible or the young person chooses not to accept the help offered.

We offer all our volunteers:

• Comprehensive training
• Out of pocket expenses
• Practical experience of face to face support
• The opportunity to be part of a diverse agency
• A rewarding role supporting young people

In return we ask that you:

• Attend selection day and training
• Commit to volunteering with us for 3 hours a week, choosing from set shifts which cover our front of house drop in times.
• Uphold The Zone’s ethos and values
• Are enthusiastic about empowering young people to live safe, healthy and positive lives!

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Volunteer Role: HR & Volunteering Manager

Location: Hybrid / London (Must be based in London)

Time Commitment: Flexible (approx. 3–5 hours per week), with occasional attendance at unit nights, interviews, or recruitment events.

The Heart of Our Growth

Do you have a gift for bringing out the best in people? The Ranger Cadets are expanding rapidly across England, and we are seeking a dedicated HR & Volunteering Manager to lead the full volunteer lifecycle in London—ensuring we attract, onboard, support, and retain the exceptional adults who mentor our cadets.

Whether you bring professional HR experience or a natural talent for people leadership, this role sits at the very centre of our mission to ensure every young person is truly “Prepared for Life.”

Your Strategic Leadership

As HR & Volunteering Manager, you will oversee the entire volunteer experience—from first enquiry to long‑term engagement. You will shape the culture, set the tone, and ensure every volunteer feels valued, supported, and ready to thrive.

You will lead on:

Talent Attraction & Recruitment

• Designing and managing compelling recruitment campaigns for Uniformed Adult Volunteers and Non‑Uniformed Support Staff.

• Coordinating interviews, information sessions, and recruitment events.

Onboarding & Compliance

• Managing the full onboarding journey, including interviews, references, DBS checks, safeguarding steps, and welcome communications.

• Ensuring every new volunteer receives a smooth, professional, and reassuring introduction to the organisation.

Volunteer Support & Experience

• Developing initiatives that keep volunteers engaged, motivated, and recognised.

• Providing ongoing pastoral support and acting as a trusted point of contact for volunteer wellbeing.

Strategic Workforce Planning

• Working closely with the Chief Ranger and Launch Teams to identify staffing needs in new and existing units.

• Helping shape the volunteer structure as the organisation grows.

What We Are Looking For

A Warm, Confident Communicator

You will often be the first voice new volunteers hear—professionalism, kindness, and clarity are essential.

Organised & Reliable

You can manage multiple applications at once and ensure every volunteer receives timely communication.

Discreet & Trustworthy

You are comfortable handling sensitive information with absolute confidentiality.

Passionate About People

You care deeply about matching the right volunteers to the right roles, ensuring long‑term success for both the individual and the unit.

Why Become Our HR & Volunteering Manager?

Shape the Future

You will directly influence the calibre, culture, and character of the adults who mentor the next generation.

Build Professional Expertise

Gain hands‑on experience in HR, recruitment, safeguarding, and volunteer management within a growing national youth organisation.

Flexible & Meaningful Volunteering

Most of the role can be done remotely, making it ideal for those who want to make a real impact without weekly parade‑night commitments.

Help Us Build a World‑Class Volunteer Team

Behind every confident, capable cadet stands a team of dedicated adults who believed in them. Help us find, support, and empower those volunteers.

RANGER CADETS

#PreparedForLife

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

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 3 May 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 4 May and 15 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.