227 Social care development volunteer volunteer roles

As a Community Outreach Volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in helping people in the local community know where to turn when they need urgent mental health support. You’ll be out and about in the community spreading the word about the our service — chatting to local people, connecting with community centres, faith groups and local organisations, and sharing information through leaflets and posters. 

What you will be doing

• Promoting the Crisis Café within the local community
• Visiting community centres, libraries, GP surgeries, faith settings and other local spaces
• Handing out leaflets and displaying posters
• Helping build positive relationships with local organisations and community groups
• Feeding back any insights, questions or community needs to the team

The skills you need

• Friendly, approachable and confident talking to new people
• An interest in mental health, wellbeing and community support
• Good communication skills and a respectful, non judgemental approach

What's in it for you

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

We are looking for a friendly and reliable, qualified volunteer to support a small fishing group. The aim of the group is to reduce social isolation and support wellbeing by creating a relaxed, welcoming space where people can enjoy being outdoors, learn basic fishing skills, and connect with others.

What you will be doing

• Supporting and engaging a small group during relaxed, beginner friendly fishing sessions
• Demonstrating basic coarse fishing techniques and helping clients build confidence
• Encouraging gentle conversation and positive social interaction in a calm, outdoor setting
• Provide a listening ear and friendly, non-judgmental support and encouragement
• Helping to create a safe, inclusive and supportive group environment
• Feedback any relevant observations after sessions
• Supporting with setting up and packing away shared equipment

The skills you need

• A friendly, patient and approachable manner
• Confidence engaging with people who may experience loneliness, low mood or mental health challenges

What's in it for you

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

Would you like to help tackle loneliness, one conversation at a time?

Loneliness and isolation can have devastating effects on a person’s mental and physical health. We are a registered charity providing a pathway of support to alleviate the hurt and distress, and the impact on mental and physical health, caused by loneliness and social isolation. 

We are seeking Volunteer Drivers, to provide transport in their own vehicle, bringing Friends (people who use our services) to and returning them home from an Archway supportive social group. Occasionally we organise Archway Fundraising activities or events where may be asked to provide transport to an Archway Fundraising activity or event.  Some Archway Friends (people who use our services) are unable to attend a supportive social group independently, mainly due to physical barriers to public transport. Transport delivered by volunteers enables Friends to access the supportive social group, in turn alleviating loneliness. The groups may be the only opportunity for Friends to meet with others. Each Friend is invited to one group per month either in Oxford or Abingdon so transport volunteers usually offer one trip per month or more if they like.

We ask volunteers to think of this as a longer term volunteer role due to the training and time we take in order to give our volunteers, and Friends, the very best service. You will also need to consider occasional time spent in training for your role and for continuous development. 

For all our roles:

Due to our Safeguarding regulations, unfortunately we are only able to accept applications from UK residents. 

Enhanced DBS checks for working with vulnerable adults (formerly called criminal records bureau checks)  which we will organise (no cost to this) and two references are required.

For any roles involving driving Archway Friends, we will need to see evidence of insurance and driving license as well as MOT and tax documents for the vehicle to be used.

We will happily cover out of pocket expenses (eg mileage).

We provide training relevant to the roles as well as ongoing supervision, guidance and support for all volunteers.

Are you looking to get involved in the local community or perhaps have an interest in mental health?

We are looking for a volunteer to facilitate a Men’s group in a local cafe. The group provides a safe, welcoming place for people to meet, share experiences and support each other’s growth whilst connecting over board games.

What you will be doing

• Meet service users in a local Cafe every Thursday from 11-12pm to play board games and facilitate discussions
• Create a supportive environment for men to connect, share experiences, and empower each other
• To negotiate/facilitate conflicts or disagreements that may arise during group meetings.

The skills you need

• Ability to create and maintain a safe environment where participants’ thoughts and feelings are valued, and group members are treated with fairness, equity and respect
• Experience of facilitating groups.
• Strong listening and communication skills

What's in it for you

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

Do you enjoy spending time outdoors and helping things grow? We’re looking for a friendly and reliable Gardening Volunteer to support with maintaining and developing our garden spaces, helping create a calm, welcoming environment for people using our mental health recovery service.

What you will be doing

• Helping with general gardening tasks such as planting, weeding, watering, pruning and tidying
• Supporting service users who are interested in getting involved in gardening activities
• Helping maintain outdoor spaces so they are safe, welcoming and enjoyable
• Encouraging confidence, routine and teamwork through shared gardening tasks
• Working alongside staff and other volunteers

The skills you need

• An enjoyment of gardening and being outdoors
• A patient, supportive and encouraging approach
• Good communication skills and a friendly manner

What's in it for you

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

Are you creative? Would you like to support others to express their emotions through arts and crafting? You will be supporting people to express their emotions, provide a time for people to relax and feel proud of their final art products!

What you will be doing

• To prepare arts and craft sessions, involving individuals in the planning process where possible
• Inspire and motivate individuals to develop their arts and craft skills, assisting them in the creation of their projects and supporting them to brainstorm and use their own initiative
• Encourage individuals to continue independent activities

The skills you need

• Experience of arts and/or crafts either in a professional, educational, or personal level
• Able to collaborate with individuals to plan an art group session and facilitate confidently
• A calm and patient manner
• Ability to provide a trusting, open, kind-hearted atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• An effective communicator with a patient and sympathetic nature

What's in it for you

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

We are recruiting for volunteers to visit pharmacies to ascertain whether they have a consultation room to deliver the Safe Spaces Scheme.

Hestia and UK SAYS NO MORE operate over 4,500 Safe Spaces in pharmacies and banks across the UK, for anyone experiencing domestic abuse. Anyone can be affected by domestic abuse, regardless of gender, age, race or identity. Domestic abuse is not always physical violence, and it can take many forms including emotional, sexual abuse, coercive and controlling behaviour. One in three women and one in seven men are affected by domestic abuse.

What you will be doing

• To visit Pharmacies and Banks/Building societies to check whether they have a consultation room to deliver the Safe Spaces Scheme
• Asking questions following a script

The skills you need

• Good communication skills, verbal and written
• Calm, friendly and patient manner

What's in it for you

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

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

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOT A PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITY AND IS NOT OPEN TO STUDENT VOLUNTEERS

What is the purpose of this role?

The Sybil Levin Day Service is a specialist SPECAL-Led day service supporting people with dementia and their carers using the SPECAL method.

What activities might you be involved in?

• Assisting centre attendees to engage in activities.
• Serving meals and drinks.
• Helping to set up and clear away activities.
• Engaging in conversation with centre attendees.
• Volunteering in line with the Charity’s policies and procedures and adhering to the Volunteer Code of Conduct

What are we looking for?

• People with a genuine interest in the wellbeing of people with dementia.
• A friendly, sensitive and kind approach.
• Being comfortable in small groups or on a one to one basis.
• People with a commitment to using the SPECAL method at all times whilst at the centre.

When would you be needed to volunteer?

The centre is open from Monday to Friday and would like volunteers to commit to a morning or afternoon at least once a week as a minimum.

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 thorough Charity induction and a departmental induction to provide further information about the role.  You will also be given access to our online training library to complete the training modules that are mandatory for your role.

You will receive SPECAL training prior to commencing your role.

What can you gain from this opportunity?

• The chance to make a difference to the lives of people with dementia.
• Ongoing support, ensuring your volunteering experience is a fulfilling and positive one.
• A comprehensive training programme.
• 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

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

As a Care Home Support Volunteer you will provide valuable support to the care home team by offering a flexible approach and completing or assisting with tasks as required.

There are so many things to help with, either with residents directly or supporting staff and we would like volunteers to be flexible but also to choose what they are comfortable with. Tasks could vary week to week and include supporting with activities, admin, serving meals and refreshments and more.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a current resident of the UK.
• Must have the legal right to volunteer in the UK.

Childcare Volunteer – Make a Lasting Difference in Ghana

Help children learn, grow and thrive

At SFLIG Volunteers, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, feel safe and reach their full potential. Since 2011, we have partnered with schools, childcare centres and community organisations across Ghana to provide educational support, care and encouragement to children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Are you passionate about working with children and looking for a meaningful international volunteering experience? Join our team and become part of a programme that creates lasting change while allowing you to experience the rich culture and hospitality of Ghana.

About the role

As a Childcare Volunteer, you will work alongside experienced local staff in a childcare centre, supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing. Your encouragement, creativity and enthusiasm can have a positive impact on the lives of young children while giving you a rewarding international experience.

No two days are the same. You will build relationships with the children, assist with educational and recreational activities and help create a fun, safe and engaging environment where children can flourish.

What you'll be doing

You will:

• Support children with reading, writing and basic learning activities.
• Organise games, arts and crafts, music and educational activities.
• Help supervise indoor and outdoor play.
• Encourage children's confidence, creativity and social development.
• Assist local staff with daily childcare routines.
• Share your culture while learning about Ghanaian traditions and community life.
• Work respectfully within the local community and follow safeguarding procedures at all times.

Programme details

Location: Accra, Kasoa, Senya Breku, Kumas (All in Ghana)

Placement Type: Onsite international volunteer placement

Duration: Flexible placements available throughout the year

Accommodation: Volunteer accommodation provided from the program cost

Meals: Three meals per day included from the program cost

Support: Airport pickup, orientation, local SIM card, ongoing in-country support and a certificate upon successful completion.

This placement is for you if...

• You enjoy working with children.
• You are caring, patient and adaptable.
• You are enthusiastic about learning a new culture.
• You work well as part of a team.
• You are willing to contribute positively to the local community.
• Previous childcare, teaching or youth work experience is welcome but not essential.

Important information

This is an onsite, self-funded international volunteer programme in Ghana. Volunteers are responsible for their programme fee, international flights, visa, travel insurance and personal expenses.

Applicants must answer the screening questions as part of the application process. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted with further information about the placement and the next steps.

If you're ready to make a meaningful difference while experiencing the warmth, culture and beauty of Ghana, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and become part of the SFLIG Volunteers family.

Do you love gardening and being outdoors?  
 
We are looking for a friendly volunteer to help the people we support to get the most out of their garden! 

 
Activities will include: 

• Taking care of our garden to make it an enjoyable space for everyone

• Garden maintenance that includes – weeding, pruning, mowing, planting

• Building friendships with the people we support who may like to watch

• Helping with ideas and suggestions for the garden 

We're looking for volunteers who are: 

• Comfortable in the Garden, with good gardening skills and knowledge 

• Reliable/dependable 

• Comfortable chatting with people with learning disabilities and autism 

• Willing to commit to volunteer regularly 

A DBS check and two character references will be required.

  
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, friendly and trained 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, we’d love to hear from you!

Volunteer Cook

 About the Role

We are looking for enthusiastic Volunteer Cooks to support people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss by helping to prepare and cook nutritious, enjoyable meals. This rewarding role provides an opportunity to share your passion for food, encourage independence, and help create positive social experiences through cooking and shared mealtimes.

 The Difference You Will Make

As a Volunteer Cook, you will help people develop practical cooking skills, build confidence, and enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals. Your support can promote independence, social inclusion, and wellbeing while creating opportunities for people to learn, connect, and enjoy new experiences.

 What You Will Do

• Support people to prepare and cook simple meals and snacks.
• Encourage participation in food preparation and kitchen activities.
• Promote safe food handling and good kitchen hygiene practices.
• Assist with meal planning and shopping lists where appropriate.
• Help create a welcoming and enjoyable cooking environment.
• Support individuals to develop confidence and independence in the kitchen.
• Work alongside staff to ensure activities are safe, enjoyable, and inclusive.
• Assist with clearing up and maintaining a clean kitchen area after sessions.

 What We Are Looking For

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. You do not need to be a professional chef—just someone who enjoys cooking and supporting others.

We are looking for people who are:

• Friendly, patient, and reliable.
• Passionate about cooking and healthy eating.
• Good communicators and supportive team players.
• Respectful of diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiastic about helping people learn new skills.
• Able to encourage and motivate others in a positive way.

 Requirements

Successful volunteers will be required to:

• Complete an enhanced DBS check.
• Provide two satisfactory references.
• Complete some online training
• Follow SeeAbility's policies and procedures, including safeguarding, food hygiene, and health and safety requirements.

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a specialist charity supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious lives. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve their goals, develop independence, and be part of their community.

Volunteers play a vital role in helping us provide meaningful opportunities, develop life skills, and support the people we work with to achieve their aspirations.

Do you enjoy singing and listening to all genres of music? We have an exciting opportunity to facilitate a singing and music group!

What you will be doing

• To develop positive relationships with the service users
• Facilitate a weekly singing and music group with use of instruments
• Provide opportunities for the group to collaborate on agreed themes/ songs for future groups
• Coordinate and plan group sessions
• Inspire and motivate people to attend and get involved in the group
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback, and report any concerns to the staff team
• To use a range of skills and tools to make sessions interesting and fun

The skills you need

• Experience in music in either a professional, educational or personal level
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

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

Do you have a passion for ballet and want to make a difference? We’re looking for a volunteer to support a beginner on a one-to-one basis. This role may involve a mix of remote and face-to-face sessions!

What you will be doing

• Deliver ballet sessions tailored to the individual’s beginner level
• Encourage and motivate the individual to build confidence and enjoy learning.
• Plan and adapt sessions to suit the individual’s pace and goals.
• Agree on session times and format (in-person or remote).

The skills you need

• Ballet experience required
• Qualification desired but not essential
• Patience and ability to teach beginners.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable and committed to regular sessions.

What's in it for you

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