Planning volunteer roles

Your London Marathon Volunteering Experience - Cheer with Scope!

Be part of the electric atmosphere at the world’s most iconic marathon on Sunday 26 April 2026. We’re looking for enthusSoak up the fantastic energy and be a part of the world’s most iconic marathon on Sunday 26th April 2026. Join Scope in cheering on and motivating our incredible team of over 110 runners, who are all fundraising to help create an equal future with disabled people.  

About this role 

The streets of London will come alive once again on Sunday 26th April for the London Marathon. We can’t wait to get out there and support our amazing runners! And we hope YOU will join us.

Your role will be to help keep our runners going and make them feel super proud of what an amazing thing they’re doing. Clap, yell, cheer - anything that lends our runners the energy they need to go the distance. We’ll have music, banners and flags! By registering to help, you’ll also get a free Scope t-shirt to help you look the part. 

“It’s the best day out in London. The energy is amazing, and everyone is there to have a good time and support the runners.” – 

Previous Scope volunteer. 

When and where 

Sunday 26th April 2026 

Cheerpoint 1 – Mile 3, Woolwich with the Singing Striders choir: 

• 8.30am to 1pm 
• John Wilson Street (SE18 6QQ), near the intersection of John Wilson Street and Wellington Street 
• What3Words address: ///blaze.jokes.smiled
   

Cheerpoint 2 – Mile 23, Tower Hill: 

• 12pm to 5pm 
• Lower Thames Street (EC3R 5AS), between Pizza Express and All Bar One pub 
• What3Words address: ///design.grin.charm 

You can download the free What3Words app from the App Store or Google Play, and these words tell you the precise location of the cheer point.
 
Please note that we will be as close to the above locations as possible. Look out for the big Scope banners and flags on the day! 

It would be fantastic if you’re able to volunteer for the full shift. But if you can’t, then we’d be super appreciative for any time you are able to give – ideally 2 hours minimum. 

Who we’re looking for 

We welcome anyone who is friendly and passionate about disability equality! We're looking for volunteers who are enthusiastic, friendly, and ready to be the loudest and proudest cheerers on the course! ​No experience is necessary. Volunteers must be over 18, or with a responsible adult.

We’d love to welcome disabled people to cheer with us. Equality and inclusion are at the heart of Scope’s mission. We’re deeply committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all volunteers.

 Accessibility 

Cheerpoint 1 

Nearest stations: Woolwich, Woolwich Dockyard and Woolwich Arsenal.

Accessibility:  

• Woolwich is served by the Elizabeth and Thameslink lines and has step-free access 
• Woolwich Dockyard is a National Rail station and has limited step-free access 
• Woolwich Arsenal is served by the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) and Thameslink lines - it is also a National Rail station and has step-free access 

Cheerpoint 2 

Nearest stations: Monument and Tower Hill 

Accessibility:  

• Monument is served by the District and Circle lines and does not have step free access 
• Tower Hill, which is within walking distance, is served by the District and Circle lines and has step-free access 

We’re committed to making this an inclusive environment, so will talk to you about your access needs and adjustments before the event.

Skills and experience you can gain 

• Experience being a part of a charity team 
• Being a Scope representative
• Supporting a charity committed to creating an equal future with disabled people 
• Meeting new people 
• Boosting your confidence and increasing your self-esteem 

What we can offer you ahead of the day 

• Support with travel plans to and from the event 
• Agreed out of pocket expenses 
• Information about plans for the day
• Information on what you will be doing

What we can offer you on the day 

• Free Scope t-shirt 
• Scope event staff on hand to support on the day 
• Front row view of the world’s most iconic marathon 
• Fun day out in London 
• Opportunity to volunteer with friends and family if you wish 
• The chance to meet new people and Scope staff 
• Knowing you’ve made a big difference to our runners and helped make their day extra special 

 Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Scope is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children and adults at risk who are either receiving services or volunteering. We expect all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. iastic volunteers to help cheer on our incredible team of over 110 Scope runners, all fundraising to help create an equal future for disabled people. 

 As an Outreach & Hub Support Volunteer you will make a difference by supporting clients to engage with us in different ways including providing hands on street outreach in line with our assertive outreach approach, and supporting clients in our Hub.

Volunteer Maintenance Officer / Handyperson
The Haven, Walsall
Flexible, ad-hoc hours and some regular commitment
Voluntary role (travel expenses covered)

Are you practical, proactive, and enjoy hands-on work? Join WPH Counselling and make a real difference behind the scenes.

We’re looking for a reliable Volunteer Maintenance Officer / Handyperson to help us keep our facilities safe, welcoming, and well-maintained for the people who rely on our services. Your skills will directly support our mission—ensuring more of our funding goes where it’s needed most: helping our clients.

 What you’ll be doing:

• Carrying out general maintenance and minor repairs (painting, basic carpentry, gardening, etc.)
• Keeping outdoor spaces clean, safe, and tidy
• Identifying and resolving maintenance issues proactively
• Supporting small improvement and refurbishment projects
• Assisting with furniture and equipment installation
• Working alongside a friendly and supportive team

 What we’re looking for:

• Someone practical, reliable, and confident with DIY tasks
• Experience in maintenance, repairs, or a trade (formal or informal)
• A proactive problem-solver who can work independently
• Friendly, flexible, and willing to follow health & safety guidance
• Able to travel to our Walsall location
• This is an ad-hoc post and we are flexible and can work around your availability, but we are ideally looking for someone who can offer regular support with ongoing tasks such as maintaining grounds (e.g. a few hours a month) and be available to support in times of emergency repairs. 

What you’ll gain:

• The chance to give back to your local community
• Hands-on experience in a charity environment
• Flexibility to fit volunteering around your schedule
• Travel expenses covered
• The opportunity to be part of a warm, supportive team

A full role description can be available on request. Interested parties would be required to take part in an informal interview and screening process before being successfully appointed a volunteer. 

Interested? Get in touch and help us create a safe, welcoming space for those who need it most.

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

A bit more information about this role and the team

Winchester and District Cats Protection is a long-standing branch whose volunteer numbers have dwindled, reducing their activity level.  We are rebuilding the team and are looking for an energetic Branch Team Leader to coordinate the branch’s activities, working with existing volunteers and supporting new ones as we expand.  Our ideal candidate of course must be a cat lover, but should also have excellent people skills and be able to communicate effectively with people from a variety of backgrounds.  Although cat welfare experience is preferable, this is not as important as management skills and the enthusiasm to get stuck into something new.  Full training and support will be provided. 

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Supporting your team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure volunteers are happy and confident
• Making sure the team observes charity best practice and compliance
• Collaborating with your Branch Development Manager (BDM) to plan volunteer activity
• Leading the team to follow Cats Protection policies, procedures and guidelines
• Monitoring expenditure and helping ensure long term financial stability of the volunteer group
• Organising and chairing team meetings
• Acting as an ambassador for Cats Protection

Time expectation

Our branch team leader volunteers usually spend 10 to 15 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. There will be times of year when more hours are required, such as towards the end of the financial year, but support and guidance are available.

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.

LUX is looking for new Board members to support our work and bring new skills, expertise and ideas for the future of our organisation. This is an important moment in LUX’s history as we embark on a process of rearticulating our purpose and shaping our future with a new executive team. Maintaining a strong, dynamic Board of Trustees is essential to guiding LUX’s mission and working in collaboration with the team to develop and implement the organisation’s vision.

We are currently seeking up to five Trustees, each bringing expertise in one of the following areas:

• Legal
• LUX artist
• Fundraising
• Gallerist or collector with artists’ moving image experience
• Senior level expertise in digital, IT and new technologies

We are keen to hear from people who are enthusiastic about and committed to contemporary art and artists’ moving-image practice, and who are sympathetic to the needs of artists.

Diverse Representation

LUX is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and to addressing inequality in the arts sector. We want our Board of Trustees – and our organisation as a whole – to reflect the artists we work with and the audiences we seek to engage.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as global ethnic majority, d/Deaf, disabled, neurodivergent, LGBTQI+, and from those who experience barriers due to their socio-economic background.’

We guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who demonstrate skills and knowledge in the areas outlined above. Please indicate whether you identify as d/Deaf or disabled in your application.

"Hosting breaks down barriers and helps you realise how similar everyone is."  

Do you have a spare room in your home?

We are looking for people with a spare room who are willing to offer a temporary home and a helping hand to a refugee or person seeking asylum as they plan their next steps in the UK. Hosting is only ever temporary and you decide how long you are willing to host for; it can vary from a few nights to several months and anything in between. 

Who can be a host?

Anyone with a spare room, or even a sofa bed, that is well connected and has good public transport systems can apply to host. This enables guests to travel to college, school, support groups or jobs, and retain their independence.

All hosts will need to complete an application form, provide two references and have a home visit. 

Support available

We carefully assess each guest and host, match according to preferences, advise on hosting arrangements and preparations, and provide ongoing support to hosts throughout the placement. We stay in contact with you when you have a guest staying with you, and someone from the team is available seven days a week if you have any questions or problems.

We will discuss with you any preferences, such as if you would prefer not to host someone who has not been vaccinated against covid, or who smokes. This will be recorded on your profile on our database so that our whole Placement Team can access this and match you with a guest who fits your circumstances.

All guests, hosts and households are different. Some hosts share meals and do activities with guests; others just give guests a key, show them round and get on with their busy lives. Our team are available to support you through every stage of the process.

Why is hosting needed?

Refugees and people seeking asylum are fleeing war or persecution in their own countries. But many who come to the UK in search of safety find themselves facing homelessness and destitution. They may be without statutory support for long periods, or need some additional help to build new lives.

Hosting is such a practical way to support refugees and it sends a powerful message of welcome, that the UK is in fact kind and compassionate to those who are trying to rebuild their lives here.

Don't have a spare room?

Maybe you have a friend or family member who does. Consider speaking to them about hosting.

"There are so few times you can do something practical to help. Hosting refugees felt like a practical thing to do."

Refugees at Home is the UK’s largest independent hosting charity, connecting those with a spare room in their home to refugees and people seeking asylum in need of somewhere to stay. Our vision is for every refugee and every person seeking asylum to have a safe place to stay. 

Many of our guests come to us on the verge of homelessness – some have already spent time sleeping on the streets. Since starting in 2016, we have supported over 7,500 guests into hosting, but the need is not going away.

Obuyisi bw’Omu Initiative empowers underserved communities in Uganda—particularly women, youth, and children—through grassroots action, advocacy, and partnerships. It addresses key challenges including limited mental health support, poor water and sanitation, barriers to quality education, and the impacts of climate change. Programs create safe spaces for mental health awareness, improve clean water access and hygiene, and provide educational resources and mentorship to promote inclusive learning. Climate action efforts involve tree planting, conservation, and sustainable practices. By fostering community ownership and engaging volunteers, Obuyisi bw’Omu drives practical, sustainable solutions that enhance well-being and resilience for lasting positive change.

As a Fundraising Specialist you will be in charge of the following tasks :

Fundraising Strategy Development:
· Collaborate with the team to understand our core programs, budget needs, and funding gaps.
· Research and help develop a comprehensive fundraising plan that identifies the most promising income streams (grants, corporate sponsorships, individual donations, online campaigns).

Grant Research & Writing:
· Proactively research and identify grant opportunities from foundations, trusts, and bilateral/multilateral agencies whose priorities align with our mission in mental health, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), climate action, and girls' education in Uganda.
· Draft compelling grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and concept notes, working with the team to gather necessary data and impact stories.
· Help manage a grants calendar to track deadlines and reporting requirements.

Individual Giving & Crowdfunding:
· Support the development and launch of online crowdfunding campaigns.
· Help brainstorm and implement creative ways to engage and grow a base of individual monthly donors.
· Assist in drafting compelling fundraising appeals (e.g., for email newsletters, social media) in collaboration with the Communications and Digital Marketing volunteers.

Partnership Development:
· Research and help build a pipeline of potential corporate partners, foundations, and philanthropic networks.
· Assist in drafting sponsorship packages and partnership proposals that offer clear value to potential supporters.

Donor Communication & Stewardship:
· Help create materials to thank and update donors on the impact of their contributions (e.g., impact reports, thank-you emails).
· Support efforts to create and maintain strong, long-term relationships with funders.

Minimum Hours per Week:

10+ hours per week

Duration:

3-5 months

MenWalkTalk has been developing at a pace and is now looking for new Trustees to help strengthen the Board to continue the growth.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that MenWalkTalk achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity ensuring that MenWalkTalk has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable MenWalkTalk to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that Trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Duties:

• Support and provide advice on MenWalkTalk’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee MenWalkTalk’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve MenWalkTalk’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to MenWalkTalk’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Contribute to regular reviews of MenWalkTalk’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect MenWalkTalk’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of MenWalkTalk’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the Trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. The ideal candidates will have 3 or more years previous governance experience in the UK charity sector.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

• Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term of office.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

• Attending 6-9 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held remotely each month.
• Attending 2 annual strategy / training days

Committee membership

Membership of at least one of the Trustee committees attending relevant meetings and reporting back to the Board.

Chair of Trustees

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire

Voluntary role | Buckinghamshire

Are you a well-connected leader in Buckinghamshire with the energy and ambition to help a respected local charity grow its impact?

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire is seeking an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees.

About Us

We are part of the national Citizens Advice network, providing free, confidential and impartial advice to thousands of people each year across Buckinghamshire. We have offices in Aylesbury, Buckingham, High Wycombe and Chesham.

Our work helps people resolve problems around debt, housing, employment, benefits and consumer rights, often preventing crises, reducing pressure on public services and enabling individuals to regain stability and independence.

The organisation is stable, well-managed and ambitious. Following reductions in statutory funding and changes across the national network, we are now focused on strengthening income streams, raising our local profile and entering a new phase of growth.

The Opportunity

It is an opportunity to build on strong foundations and take the organisation forward.

As Chair, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees.

• Help strengthen funding and sustainability.

• Raise the profile of Citizens Advice across Buckinghamshire.

• Represent the organisation with funders, partners and the wider community.

• Champion the difference we make to people’s lives.

We are particularly interested in candidates who live in, or have strong knowledge and networks within Buckinghamshire (ideally central or south).

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking someone who brings:

• Strategic leadership experience (board or senior executive level).

• The confidence to support and constructively challenge a CEO.

• Strong networking skills and credibility locally.

• Commercial awareness and financial literacy.

• An interest in fundraising and partnership development.

• A genuine commitment to community impact.

Prior Chair experience is welcome but not essential. Energy, judgement and the ability to build relationships are key.

Time Commitment

• Four face-to-face Board meetings per year (2 hours each).

• Four subcommittee meetings per subcommittee annually Finance & Risk, Operations, People, and Fundraising).

• Annual strategy Away Day.

• Annual Staff & Volunteers Day.

• Attendance at selected fundraising and stakeholder events.

• Approximate commitment: 2 -4 days per month.

Why This Role Matters

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire helps people solve problems that, left unaddressed, cost families, councils and government far more in the long term.

As Chair, you will help ensure this essential service continues to thrive, supporting residents to become more financially secure, resilient and able to contribute fully to society.

For more information and how to apply download the Appointment Brief.

Closing date: 9am Friday 10th April 2026

Join us in shaping the next chapter of Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire.

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Become a helping hand that makes a house feel like home again. 

Joining this role means stepping into a vital position of practical support for families who are caring for a child whose life will be short. Many families across Wales face this unimaginable situation while juggling the demands of everyday life - Often without the support network they desperately need. 

As a Practical Support at Home Volunteer, you’ll make a meaningful difference by helping families manage the household tasks that can feel overwhelming during such emotional and exhausting times. 

Your time and care will help bring calm, dignity and relief to families going through the toughest moments of their lives. 

What You Need to Know 

• Age: 18+ 

• Location: Across South & West Wales (in your local area) 

• Commitment: Flexible and can be adjusted to accommodate your personal schedule. The support plans designed for referred families are typically structured to span a period of six weeks 

• Checks: Enhanced DBS check, 2 references and induction/training course required before starting. 

What You’ll be Doing 

• Light household cleaning (dusting, wiping surfaces, hoovering) 

• Tidying, decluttering and organising 

• Laundry support (washing, drying, folding) 

• Basic garden maintenance (if interested/experienced) 

• Running small errands locally 

• Supporting with simple household tasks that reduce the family’s mental load. 

We Are Looking For Volunteers Who: 

• Are kind, empathetic and respectful of families’ privacy 

• Are reliable, flexible and able to commit on a regular basis 

• Follow our policies, procedures & health and safety guidelines 

• Can report any concerns promptly 

• Are friendly, polite and able to maintain appropriate boundaries 

• Can adapt to different situations in the home environment 

• Enjoy making a positive difference to families’ lives. 

• Are respectful of the privacy, preferences and needs of the families you are supporting, 

always maintaining confidentiality. 

At Tŷ Hafan our people values are working together, demonstrating compassion, providing excellent service and taking ownership.  

We expect all colleagues and volunteers to behave with high levels of integrity and to represent our values as a core part of their role. 

Training You Will Receive 

You will receive a full introduction to Tŷ Hafan and your role, including an in‑person induction, core training and additional e‑learning. You’ll be supported by a friendly, experienced team who are available to help with any questions through regular check‑ins. 

Role‑specific and organisation‑wide training will also be provided as needed. 

All volunteers are required to keep their mandatory training up to date to 

continue in their role. 

The benefits of becoming a Practical Support at Home Volunteer 

• Make a positive difference in the lives of children with life-shortening conditions and their families, by helping them to maintain clean spaces for them to enjoy 

• Attend Volunteer Celebration Events throughout the year 

• Meet new people and join a friendly community of volunteers, passionate about helping others 

• Expenses will be provided following discussion about the role. 

This role is purely voluntary, and this arrangement is not meant to be a legally binding one or an employment contract. 

Providing care and support is something we are only able to do because of the kindness and commitment of our wonderful staff, supporters and volunteers. 

WHO WE ARE

Westmill Sustainable Energy Trust (WeSET) is a registered charity established by members of the Westmill Wind Farm and Solar Co-operatives. WeSET promotes sustainable energy deployment and education, primarily within a 25-mile radius of the Westmill Wind Farm and Solar Park, near the village of Watchfield, between Swindon and Oxford.

The Wind Farm at Westmill has been operating for nearly twenty years now, with five turbines that produce enough electricity to power about 2,800 homes. The Solar Park sits beside the turbines and produces electricity for about 1,600 homes.

Both projects are community-owned. In fact, the solar park was the first community-owned of its kind in the UK, and at its inception it was thought to be the UK’s first and the world’s largest co-operatively run, community-owned solar installation. Country Living has called Westmill one of the "6 most impressive solar farms around the world" to visit. 

Westmill is the only place in southern England where people can see wind and solar power in action on the same site. 

WHAT WE DO

One of the main ways in which WeSET connects with others is by giving tours of Westmill, where we welcome groups -  large and small - consisting of members of the public, plus community groups, primary school classes and university students. Additionally, on occasion, we also welcome planners, civil servants, councillors and others involved in making decisions about renewable energy.

THE OPPORTUNITY

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team of volunteers at WeSET to help guide people around the Westmill site. If you are passionate about sustainable energy and a low-carbon future, and are eager to share your interest with others, then we'd love to hear from you.

As a WeSET volunteer tour guide you will interact with our visitors, telling the story of how the Westmill Wind Farm & Solar Park was created, describing how our turbines were installed and how they operate, and detailing the installation and energy generation of over twenty-thousand solar panels. You would be trained and guided on the tour content and its delivery.

On some occasions, you will be working alone in welcoming and leading groups at Westmill, and on other occasions you may be working alongside other guides.

You may also prefer to work as 'guide support' which is another volunteering role available that provides practical help to our guides during the tours.

Our team of volunteers is a small but friendly group of individuals who enjoy an engaging experience, not only through tours, but also through some internal social events that WeSET arranges.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

If you already have knowledge of renewables then this would be useful. But it is by no means essential as we can introduce you! Either way, we would run you through some training and shadowing sessions to bring you up to speed.

Experience of work in a public-facing role would also be useful, but is not crucial as you will be guided on the rudiments by our existing guides, with continuing, ongoing support from WeSET's Visits Coordinator.

It's important to say that this opportunity may only suitable for people who live in north-east Wiltshire, south-east Gloucestershire, north-east Wiltshire and north-west Berkshire, as we are looking for people who can easily and quickly travel to the Westmill site. We can offer reimbursement for any travel expenses, usually within a 15-mile radius of Westmill, and this can be discussed in advance of any volunteering.

If you have a happy, friendly demeanour, with a genuine passion for sustainability, then this could be a great opportunity to share that passion and meet other like-minded people at the same time!

If you would like to help lead visitors around Westmill, while helping to promote clean green energy, then please contact us, detailing a little about you, where you are based, your background and any relevant experience.

Will you share your counselling or psychotherapy skills as a child & young person's (CYP) counsellor or therapist to join an online counselling service for young patients with a pain condition (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome)? We’re supporting patients, relatives, partners and carers affected by a debilitating condition; Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

We're looking for qualified paediatric/child &/or young person counsellors, psychotherapists or psychologists ideally with some experience of working with chronic pain patients, who may want to volunteer their skills supporting our young service users and help develop a psychological support service. 

As a Volunteer Child and/or young person's Counsellor/Therapist you’ll be providing remote online counselling/therapy support services to young people aged 5 to 18 who are vulnerable, many of whom are isolated and in need of mental health services. You’ll be providing one-to-one counselling sessions online or by phone. With your recognised counselling qualifications and experience you will be an asset to our small charity and to our young services users. 

Depending on your qualifications, skills and experience, volunteer child counsellors / therapists provide person centred counselling (general talking counselling), integrative, pluralistic including or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), ACT and EMDR for young CRPS patients.

We are needing to expand this service to support our young clients as it has rapidly received a high number of referrals. People can be referred both by health or legal professionals as well as having parents/guardians referring them to the service.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your paediatric counselling skills, organisation, communication and team working skills. If you have experience in younger children please do get in touch.

Most importantly, you’ll provide essential services that ensure no one has to face CRPS alone. Be the hope for CRPS.

What the role involves

This role may vary depending on needs, but is likely to include:

• Undertake child client general assessments, followed by therapy (via Zoom or phone) to our clients, offering up to 20 one hour (or 45 mins age dependant) sessions for each client plus 4 assessments

• Providing one-to-one therapy sessions to young patients aged 5-18 (we will consider therapists who can only support primary or secondary school age)

• Update our database with the client’s basic information and session attendance

• Maintain succinct, relevant session notes and store these securely

• Attending and participating in meetings
• Project monitoring, creating, reporting and outcomes evaluation procedures

• Attend CPD training to ensure your knowledge stays current

• Participating in regular meetings with the Clinical Lead
• Maintaining client confidentiality, upholding data protection and equal opportunities principle

• Attend monthly internal group Supervision to ensure safe working practices

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, including an induction. You will have a chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you need for this role

Essential

• Be a member of one of the recognised organisations (see below)
• Level 4 Diploma level qualifications as a minimum, Degree or Masters in Paediatric Counselling, Counselling/Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy, Play Therapy, Dance & Movement Psychotherapy or Art Therapy 
• Minimum of 100 hours supervised
• Proof of professional indemnity insurance annually - we may consider paying this as an expense but a commitment to the charity is required
• A valid DBS certificate (enhanced version), which is less than three years old and renewed every three years (the charity can provide where necessary)
• Able to keep people’s personal data safe

• Willing and able to provide counselling via Zoom from a private location with a stable WiFi connection

• Able to support a minimum of 3 child or young clients a week, being three hours of your time for counselling sessions plus time for administration. We ideally hope you to offer the charity a commitment of six months.

Desirable

• Personal or professional Knowledge or experience of chronic pain or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
• Previous experience as a chronic pain or CRPS paediatric counsellor or psychologist 
• Committed to our values
• Willing to develop skills and experience
• Enjoy working as part of a team
• Effective administration skills, planning and organisation skills
• Approachable, presentable, enthusiastic

We welcome trained paediatric counsellors, child therapists and counselling/clinical psychologists who are willing to give their time to support our valuable work.

Once we’ve assessed your application, you may be invited for interview. If you are successful, we will arrange for you to have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service DBS or Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check.

Recognised Organisations

• British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP)
• British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists (BABCP)
• Complimentary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)
• General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR)
• British Society for Clinical Hypnotherapists (BSCH)
• National Council for Hypnotherapists (NCH)
• United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
• The National Hypnotherapy Society (HS)
• National Counselling Society (NCS)
• Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)
• The Association for Professional Hypnosis and Psychotherapy (APHP)
• National Register of Hypnotherapists & Psychotherapists (NRHP)

Making a difference

What impact will the opportunity have?

You will join the charity during a critical and challenging period as the service is rapidly expanding and your expert knowledge and experience will be invaluable to our success. You will have a key role in not only developing a counselling service for younger clients but also ensure we provide counselling services and mental health support to our young child CRPS patients who are in need of our support and inclusion on a regular basis. With your help we will expand our support and mental health services to ensure our service users receive mental health support that they may not have been offered.

What's in it for you as the volunteer? 

You would be a part of our small, friendly, forward-thinking charity team, focused on reaching people affected by this rare, painful and debilitating chronic pain condition and to provide them with psychological support whether they are patients, their partner, relatives, friends or carers. As this service is continually developing, you would have a key role in developing a young person counselling programme and to complement our support services that we offer. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference in a child's life which is already isolated and painful, who may not have received any psychological support.

Who We Are

ExtraCare is a registered charity established in 1988. Our vision is better lives for older people, and our mission is to create sustainable communities that provide homes older people want, lifestyles they can enjoy, and care when it is needed.All surpluses generated by the organisation are reinvested to improve the lives of our residents. We have no shareholders and are governed by an unpaid Board of Trustees.

ExtraCare is the UK’s leading not-for-profit developer of housing for people aged 55 and over. We operate 14 retirement villages and four smaller retirement schemes, supporting more than 4,329 residents across 3,778 homes.

To support our work, we operate a subsidiary company, ExtraCare Retail Limited, which runs charity shops and donates its profits to the charity. Additional income is generated through fundraising activities.

The Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Board of ExtraCare Charitable Trust at a time of continued growth and impact.

Our Trustees work collaboratively, bringing energy, insight and constructive challenge to support the organisation’s mission of improving the lives of older people and creating vibrant communities. With the Trust in a strong position and preparing for its next corporate plan, new Trustees will play an important role in helping to shape future strategy and supporting the organisation’s long-term sustainability and success.

We are seeking two new Trustees to join the Board as part of our ongoing Board development. Through these appointments, we are looking to strengthen the Board’s expertise in key areas that will support the Trust’s continued growth and governance.

Trustee – Finance and Treasury
For one of these roles, we are particularly seeking significant experience in treasury and financial management. This includes a strong understanding of treasury strategy and oversight, alongside experience in financial management, financial reporting and control systems.

The successful candidate will help provide robust scrutiny and guidance on the Trust’s financial position, supporting the Board in ensuring long-term financial resilience and sustainability.

Trustee – Social Housing and Housing Services
For the second role, we are looking to bring deeper expertise in social housing and housing services. We welcome candidates with experience in the social housing sector, including a strong understanding of the regulatory framework and the management and delivery of housing services.

This knowledge will support the Board in overseeing our housing provision, ensuring high standards of service, strong regulatory compliance, and the continued development of thriving communities for older people.

We are committed to ensuring that our Board reflects a broad range of perspectives and experiences. We warmly welcome applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from those who may be underrepresented on charity boards, and who can bring additional insight and lived experience to our governance.

For further details about the organisation, the role description, and the person specification, please download the Candidate Briefing Pack.

How to Apply
If you are interested in applying for this role, please provide:
•  A comprehensive CV, including your recent achievements and the details of two referees
•  A supporting statement outlining your motivation for applying (maximum one side of A4)

For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact: Melissa Baxter – Managing Partner, Charities

Closing date for applications: Monday 13 April 2026
Interviews with ExtraCare Charitable Trust: Thursday 30 April 2026
Interviews will take place at a location in the Birmingham region.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Stafford.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process