731 Social support work volunteer roles

Charleston is seeking a new Trustee to join its Board at an exciting stage in the organisation’s development.

Charleston is a year-round cultural organisation with sites in Firle and Lewes, bringing people together to engage with art and ideas. The former home and studio of Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, Charleston has a rich history rooted in the Bloomsbury group and a contemporary mission to champion experimental thinking, social inclusion and the power of art to provoke new thinking.

We are particularly seeking a trustee with significant experience in financial management, investment and endowment strategy. You will work closely with the CEO and fellow trustees to shape and lead Charleston’s approach to building and stewarding its new Permanent Endowment Trust, helping to create a secure and sustainable financial foundation for the organisation’s future.

We are looking for someone with:

• Experience of financial management, investment, reserves and endowment management.
• Experience of fundraising, particularly endowment campaigns.
• Strategic thinking, sound judgement and strong Board-level decision-making skills.
• An understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities.
• The ability to build influential philanthropic, corporate, public or charitable relationships.
• Strong communication and collaborative skills.
• A commitment to Charleston’s mission, vision and values.

Knowledge of the arts, heritage, museums or cultural sectors, previous board or committee experience, and experience of strategic partnerships would be advantageous. You do not need to be a qualified accountant.

The successful candidate will join Charleston’s Business and Finance Committee, which meets quarterly, alongside four Board meetings each year in Sussex and London. Trustees serve a three-year term, renewable for a second term subject to Board approval. The role is unremunerated, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

We particularly welcome applications from people from backgrounds underrepresented in the cultural sector, including Disabled people, people from the Global Majority, LGBTQ+ people and people from low-income backgrounds.

Closing date: 9am (GMT), Friday 16 October 2026.
Interview: Friday 20 November 2026, Charleston, Firle (BN8 6LL).

To apply, please send a concise covering letter addressing the person specification and CV.

We are looking for a Community Connector (Volunteer) to help bring people together, raise awareness, and help grow local autism support across Wales. This role will help strengthen existing branches and support the development of new groups where there is currently no provision.

What you will be doing

• Deliver “Understanding Autism” talks PowerPoint presentations to community organisations, local services, schools ,and local businesses.
• Share clear, accessible information about autism and the work of the National Autistic Society
• Help communities understand how they can better support autistic people and their families
• Encourage connection between individuals, families, schools, businesses, and local services
• Identify areas where there is little or no support and help explore opportunities to develop new branches or community groups
• Provide brief feedback SBVEO after each session, including attendance numbers and key themes and questions raised
• Distribute surveys with QR codes after each session
• Please note: All organisations hosting talks will be expected to provide their own IT equipment (such as a laptop, projector, and speakers where needed).
• Work with branch volunteers and the national team to strengthen local engagement across Wales

Volunteer Social Media & Crowdfunder Assistant

Start Date: Immediate (the page is live now, with our public launch happening this week!) veiw the crowdfunder at Crowdfunder UK search for Jawbone Cafe 

Location: Fully Remote (UK-wide welcome; Dorset connection is a lovely bonus, but entirely optional)

Time Commitment:

 During the Crowdfunder Push (Now): ~6+ hours per week (any time you can offer from 6 hours upwards is deeply valued as we launch and roll out the campaign)

 Ongoing Post-Campaign: A lighter, steady commitment (e.g. 2–4 hours per week / ~10–15 hours per month) to support our ongoing community content and newsletter

About the Role:

The Jawbone Collective is seeking an enthusiastic, proactive volunteer to jump in at a pivotal moment. We are bringing a dedicated community literary hub and word café to life—a welcoming space celebrating regional storytelling, spoken word, and inclusive creative culture.

Our crowdfunding campaign page is officially live right now, and our full public launch push takes place this week. We are looking for someone who loves grassroots promotion and storytelling to jump straight in and help us build immediate visibility, rally early supporters, and drive momentum throughout the campaign rollout. Once the campaign concludes, we would love to keep working together on a steady, ongoing basis to support our Substack, social media channels, and community announcements as our new hub opens its doors.

Key Responsibilities:

 Crowdfunder Launch & Promotion (Immediate Priority):

 Jump straight into preparing and executing the daily promotional push as we roll out our public launch this week.

 Help craft and post timely campaign updates, early backer milestones, calls to action, and visual content.

 Assist in digital outreach to local groups, creative networks, and online communities to build momentum from day one.

 Community Engagement & Content:

 Foster welcoming discussions and moderate comments across our social platforms and Substack.

 Help write, format, and schedule regular newsletter updates and announcements.

 Coordinate digital shout-outs and cross-promotions with collaborating writers, artists, and partners.

 Planning & Collaboration:

 Keep our digital schedule running smoothly during this critical launch and campaign phase.

 Check in regularly via Zoom with the core collective team to stay synced on live goals and key dates.

Required Skills & Qualities:

 A passion for grassroots arts, community projects, and creative storytelling.

 Ready and excited to jump straight into an active campaign right as it launches publicly.

 Strong written communication skills and comfort using social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Substack, etc.).

 Reliable, self-driven, and comfortable working remotely.

 Experience with crowdfunding or newsletter platforms is a welcome bonus, but proactive energy and dependability matter most.

Time Commitment & Way of Working:

The role is fully remote with regular Zoom catch-ups. Right now, during the launch and active crowdfunder push, we are looking for someone who can contribute from around 6 hours a week upwards, structured flexibly around your schedule. Once the campaign phase finishes, the role transitions to a lighter, steady rhythm (flexible according to your availability) to support ongoing community engagement. If you happen to be based in or around Dorset, you are always welcome to visit and attend in-person events, but being local is not required.

What We Offer:

 A meaningful, high-impact role at a defining moment in building an independent community literary venue.

 Real-world experience in live campaign launches, grassroots arts fundraising, and digital marketing.

 Free access to Jawbone events, literary circles, and workshops (online and in person).

 A warm, collaborative team culture that actively champions neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and diverse voices.

The Jawbone Collective is committed to inclusivity and warmly welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

Project overview: 

Alfriston Outreach Service is dedicated to helping older and vulnerable people in Kingston. We provide services such as Hot Lunch delivery, Shopping, and Laundry delivered into people’s homes, with our aim to support older people to remain independent in their own homes. 

About us:

Mind in Kingston supports people with mental health issues and raises awareness within Kingston and surrounding areas. We provide training, supervision, and opportunities for career development. 

Volunteers are extremely valued within our team and a vital part of our service delivery. We welcome applications from people from all walks of life, including those who may have personal or professional experience of mental health. While lived experience can bring valuable perspective, it is not a requirement for volunteering with us. Our focus is on providing volunteers with the training, guidance and supervision they need to feel confident in their roles and to develop their skills. Volunteers are supported to succeed and offered opportunities to connect with trustees, staff and other volunteers both professionally and socially. Above all, we value the contribution volunteers make to our community and are committed to recognising their achievements. 

Main purpose of the role: 

• Support and assist the Lunch Delivery. 

• Deliver the Hot Lunches into people’s homes. 

• Report any observations or concerns about service users’ wellbeing to the supervisor.

Tasks will include: 

• Supporting the Driver on the Lunch Delivery. 

• Carrying Hot Meals into Service Users Homes. 

• Using Key Safes to open doors where necessary. 

• Delivering Laundry and Shopping to some Service Users. 

• Provide a point of contact for Service Users. 

• Reporting on changes in Service Users well-being. 

• Reporting back any safeguarding concerns immediately to the supervisor. 

• Maintain regular contact with the supervisor. 

• Attend meetings and supervision sessions. 

What you will receive in return: 

• Training in Safeguarding. 

• Training in Food Handling. 

• Training for any other skills as identified by yourself and your supervisor. 

• Regular check-in with your supervisor, reflective supervision, and managerial support. 

• An opportunity to learn new skills and develop existing ones while being a part of a supportive team at Mind in Kingston. 

• Reimbursement of reasonable expenses. 

• Professional references upon completion. 

• *Alfriston volunteers only: access to a discounted lunch (£5 per lunch, subject to availability). A minimum of 24 hours’ notice must be given. 

What we expect from you: 

• Commitment for at least six months. 

• Completion of required training. 

• Adherence to Mind in Kingston’s policies (e.g., confidentiality, safeguarding). 

• Proactive engagement with your supervisor for support. 

Application Process: 

• Two recent references are required. 

• An enhanced DBS check is necessary. 

We ask volunteers for two references, one of which must come from someone who has supervised you recently in your work or studies, such as a current or previous employer or a tutor. You will also need to undergo an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, as you will be working with vulnerable adults. 

Role Overview

We are seeking dedicated and compassionate Volunteers to join our new drop in group in Sherborne, Dorset that take place on 10 am to 12 pm pm on the last Wednesday of the month starting 24th Sept. This role is ideal for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the community while gaining valuable experience.

The Say Aphasia charity provides support groups across the UK for people with aphasia; a language and communication disability caused by a brain injury like a stroke. Aphasia affects over 350,000 people in the UK but is little understood or known about by the public. It is the only aphasia charity set up by people with aphasia for people with aphasia; helping them to adapt to their new way of life and regain their independence and confidence.

Aphasia occurs due to injury to the brain such as a stroke. It affects access to language, resulting in difficulties following conversations, speaking, reading and writing.

Volunteers will support the running of the group with communicating, and will have the opportunity to utilise their communication skills and IT knowledge to take a register of attendance.

Responsibilities

• Provide companionship and support to individuals, particularly those living with asphasia.
• Assist in organising activities that promote social interaction and engagement.
• Communicate effectively with participants, ensuring their needs are understood and met.
• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.
• Collaborate with other volunteers to enhance the group.

Qualifications

• An understanding or knowledge in aphasia is desirable but not essential (training will be given)
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups.
• Proficiency in IT, including familiarity with common software applications.
• A compassionate and patient attitude towards individuals in need of support.

This volunteer position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute positively to the lives of others while developing personal skills and experiences.

Chelmsford Memory Walk is back for 2026, and so are our amazing volunteering opportunities. Memory Walk is so much more than a sponsored walk. Every year thousands of people come together to remember and bring hope for a brighter future.  It will take a society to beat dementia and by volunteering at Memory Walk you can be a part of it.

This is a walk like no other; this is thousands of people walking for a better future for those with dementia. Join the volunteer team on Sunday 27th September at Hylands Park, in Chelmsford. 

There is something for everyone, with roles based in the event site and along the route. Be part of an unforgettable event experience as you cheer at a marshal point, follow the route as a back marker, sell some goodies or congratulate walkers with their finish line medal. You will have the opportunity to pair up with a friend or another volunteer and we’ll make sure you have everything you need! 

Sign up to volunteer at Memory Walk this September! 

About Us

Influential Stars is a purpose-driven platform connecting creators, supporters and causes through exclusive experiences, sponsored events and fundraising campaigns. We believe anyone with a BIG heart can use their influence, networks and community to make a positive difference.

Our Story

Influential Stars was founded by Lisa Connell, who is living with an inoperable brain tumour and has spent many years supporting charitable causes. The platform was created from a simple belief: when influence, connection and community come together, they can create meaningful impact.

Role and Purpose

We are looking for a friendly, organised and proactive individual to support our Creators throughout their entire journey with Influential Stars. As our Volunteer Creator Relations & Campaign Manager, you will help manage communication with Creators from their initial invitation and registration through to preparing, launching and completing their campaign. You will build positive relationships with Creators, interact with them on social media and ensure they receive the right guidance, encouragement and resources at every stage.

This role would be ideal for someone interested in creator relations, influencer marketing, digital communications, campaign coordination, fundraising or community engagement.

The role will also include onboarding newly registered Collaborators. This involves updating their personalised Canva referral poster and actioning their scheduled welcome and follow-up emails.

Full training and templates will be provided.

Key Responsibilities

● Send approved email invitations to prospective Creators. ● Follow up with Creators who have expressed an interest in joining Influential Stars. ● Respond to general Creator enquiries and direct more complex questions to the appropriate team member. ● Welcome newly registered Creators and explain the next steps in their journey. ● Onboard newly registered Collaborators using the approved onboarding process. ● Update each Collaborator’s personalised referral poster using an existing Canva template. ● Action and schedule the appropriate Creator and Collaborator emails at each stage of their journey. ● Ensure new Collaborators receive their referral information, personalised poster and relevant support resources. ● Keep Creator and Collaborator records and email tasks updated within our CRM system. ● Ensure Creators receive the relevant guides, campaign information, templates and support resources. ● Build and maintain positive relationships with Creators through email and social media. ● Engage with Creators’ content on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and other relevant platforms. ● Support Creators as they choose their campaign type, cause and experience where applicable. ● Maintain regular contact with Creators while their campaign is being prepared and is live. ● Send scheduled campaign emails, reminders, check-ins and promotional suggestions using approved templates. ● Encourage Creators to share campaign updates, engage with their chosen cause and complete their FIT List nomination. ● Work with the wider Influential Stars team to help promote live Creator campaigns. ● Monitor Creator progress and flag any concerns, unanswered communications or support needs. ● Keep accurate and up-to-date records within our CRM system. ● Follow up with Creators when their campaign ends, thank them for their involvement and share any relevant next steps. ● Encourage Creators to remain part of the Influential Stars community as Collaborators or return for future campaigns. ● Contribute ideas to improve the Creator experience, communication and engagement.

Skills and Experience Required Essential

● Excellent written communication and relationship-building skills. ● A warm, professional and encouraging communication style. ● Confidence communicating with people through email and social media. ● Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. ● Ability to manage follow-ups and keep accurate records. ● Comfortable following communication templates and agreed processes. ● Reliable, self-motivated and able to work independently. ● Passion for helping others and creating positive social impact. ● Respect for confidentiality and sensitive personal information.

Desirable

● Interest in digital marketing, influencer marketing, communications, PR, business, fundraising or events. ● Experience engaging with creators, influencers, customers or community members. ● Experience using social media for outreach, engagement or promotion. ● Familiarity with CRM systems or email campaign processes. ● An interest in charities, personal causes and social-impact initiatives. ● Familiarity with Canva. ● Full guidance and training will be provided, so enthusiasm, reliability and a genuine interest in people are more important than formal experience.

Working Arrangement

● Fully remote volunteer position for someone based in the South East of the UK - Ideally Hertforshire based or able to travel for meetings. ● Approximately 20 flexible hours per week. ● Hours should be spread across the week to ensure Creator and Collaborator communications are managed consistently. ● Occasional in-person meetings or working sessions may be available by mutual agreement. ● Ongoing guidance, templates and support from the Influential Stars team.

Why Volunteer with Us?

● Gain hands-on experience in creator relations, campaign coordination and digital communications. ● Develop valuable email marketing, social media engagement and CRM skills. ● Build experience supporting campaigns from initial outreach through to completion. ● Strengthen your CV and LinkedIn profile. ● Develop professional communication and relationship-management skills. ● Join a growing, mission-driven organisation. ● Help people use their influence to raise funds and awareness for meaningful

About Breck Foundation

Breck Foundation is a UK child online safety charity founded in 2014 in memory of Breck Bednar, a 14-year-old boy who was groomed and murdered by someone he met online. Everything we do is driven by a simple but urgent mission: to prevent this from ever happening again.

Since our founding, we have reached more than 335,000 people in person or on video, including over 276,000 children and young people. Through our school programmes, professional training, parent engagement and policy advocacy, we work across whole communities to build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to keep children safe online.

We are now preparing to launch a new growth strategy, and this is a genuinely exciting moment to be joining us.

About the role

We are looking for an exceptional individual to serve as our new Chair of Trustees, following the stepping down of our current Chair after three years of dedicated service.

As Chair, you will lead the Board of Trustees and work in close partnership with the Chief Executive to provide strategic oversight and governance of the charity. You will play a central role in shaping and delivering our new growth strategy, helping us extend our reach, deepen our impact and grow our influence on the policy landscape.

This is a voluntary role with a time commitment of approximately 1 day per month, to cover quarterly Board meetings, sub-committee involvement, regular contact with the Chief Executive and occasional attendance at Foundation events.

A full recruitment pack, including details of all responsibilities and how to apply, is available to download via the link on this page.

What we are looking for

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. You do not need to have been a Chair before. If you bring the right skills, values and commitment, we would love to hear from you.

We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate:

• Senior leadership experience in the charity, public or private sector, ideally including board or committee experience
• A strong understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities, or a clear and credible commitment to developing this quickly
• Experience of leading organisations through periods of strategic change or growth
• The ability to chair meetings effectively, build consensus and bring out the best in a diverse board
• An understanding of the financial and fundraising challenges facing charitable organisations
• A genuine commitment to children and young people's safety and wellbeing online

Our commitment to diversity

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We would particularly encourage applications from people from LGBTQAI+, Black, Asian or minority ethnic communities.

How to apply

Please download our recruitment pack for full details of the role and application process.

Applications close at midnight on Wednesday 28th October 2026.

Initial video interviews w/c 2nd November 2026.

Family Friends carefully recruits, trains, and matches volunteers with families in Central-West London. Our befriending volunteers offer long-term practical and emotional support based on each family's unique needs and potential. We offer two befriending volunteer opportunities with us-, Big Buddies and Parent Buddies.

Our Big Buddies support young people, aged 10-18, for a few hours each week over a period of up to 12 months. With encouragement and support, volunteers will aim to help young people to discover their strengths and build confidence.

Support may look like:

• Helping to strengthen family relationships.
• Providing a listening ear 
• Taking young person to the cinema, museums, libraries - broadening their horizons!

Essential Criteria:

• Can commit to the Big Buddies programme for a minimum of 6 months
• 18+
• Must have lived in the UK for the last 2 years

What we provide in return:

• Full induction training and ongoing training
• Full DBS check
• Support and supervision
• The chance to learn new skills
• References provided after 6 months' commitment
• Reimbursement of travel and session expenses

We are an equal opportunities charity and we value the principles of diversity and inclusion, which is central in providing successful support to our families. We welcome and would like to encourage applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, including people from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTQI+ and individuals from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds.

In the first instance, please register your interest in becoming a volunteer with us by contacting us here for an online application form.

Once we've reviewed your application, a member of our team will be in touch with next steps.

Are you looking for a new opportunity to make a real difference, change lives, and help create a positive, supportive environment?

Hidayah is a volunteer-led organisation supporting LGBTQ+ Muslims through community support, advocacy, education, and wellbeing initiatives. It creates safe, inclusive spaces where people can connect, feel empowered, and have their voices heard, while promoting equality and positive change across the UK and beyond.

The Wellbeing Officer Trustee provides guidance, support, and signposting on mental health and wellbeing to volunteers and service users.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement proactive wellbeing strategies to reduce harm and support volunteers in public-facing roles. 

• Manage and respond to wellbeing queries via the designated inbox, including triage and signposting. 

• Create and maintain wellbeing resources for service users and volunteers. 

• Use feedback and data to identify wellbeing needs and improve support provision. 

• Build and maintain relationships with external mental health and wellbeing services. 

• Attend Trustee Board meetings and provide regular updates. 

• Support planning, events, and organisational activities where possible. 

• Assist with fundraising and promotion of Hidayah initiatives. 

• Participate in internal communications and maintain shared systems (e.g., Google Drive). 

• Contribute to the Annual Report. 

• Respond to communications promptly. 

• Uphold Hidayah’s values and mission. 

• Serve until the next AGM (subject to a 6-month probation period).

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Knowledge & Experience

• Understanding of mental health, wellbeing, or emotional support in a community or voluntary setting. 

• Experience supporting individuals through advice, signposting, mentoring, or similar roles. 

• Awareness of safeguarding, confidentiality, and boundaries when working with vulnerable people. 

• Experience working or volunteering in collaborative or community-based environments. 

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Strong listening, communication, and empathy skills. 

• Ability to respond calmly and appropriately to sensitive or emotional situations. 

• Good organisational skills and ability to manage inboxes, queries, or tasks efficiently. 

• Ability to work independently and take initiative with minimal supervision. 

• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills. 

• Basic IT skills (email, Google Workspace, or similar tools). 

Personal Qualities

• Compassionate, approachable, and non-judgmental. 

• Reliable, responsible, and consistent in availability. 

• Committed to equality, inclusion, and supporting LGBTQ+ Muslim communities. 

• Able to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and emotional boundaries. 

• Passionate about improving wellbeing and community support

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be 18+ and based in the UK. 

• Willingness to commit to a voluntary trustee role (approximately 4–5 hours per week minimum, with flexibility for additional time when required).

WHAT BENEFITS DO I GET FROM THIS ROLE?

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in LGBTQ+ Muslim wellbeing. 

• Governance and leadership experience. 

• Opportunity to shape wellbeing support services within the community.

• Training and development

Could you be the reason a family feels supported and less alone during their toughest days?

Families staying in our homes are facing the unimaginable, and the skills and compassion of our volunteers can make all the difference. We’re looking for people who want to give their time and be part of something truly meaningful.

By volunteering in our homes, you’ll help create a place of calm, care and belonging for children, young people and families affected by cancer.

What you give as a volunteer goes far beyond practical support — it brings hope, humanity and kindness, and leaves a lasting impact on the families we support.

What you’ll be doing

• Develop activities that follow an inclusive programme of events, according to needs of region and service user demographic, remaining mindful of families that are observing religious holidays/customs

• In conjunction with our local fundraising team, approach local sources to donate to events, e.g. supermarkets to provide snacks for event

• Complete necessary administrative tasks associated with the event, e.g. creating and sending out posters.

Do you enjoy meeting new people and lending a helping hand?

Join BucksVision as a Social & Activity Support Volunteer and help make our group a welcoming and enjoyable place for blind and partially sighted people.

 Whether you're joining in activities, serving refreshments, offering sighted guiding or simply having a friendly chat, you'll help create an inclusive and supportive atmosphere.

We're looking for friendly,reliable volunteers who enjoy working with people and being part of a team. No previous experience is needed—we'll provide full training, ongoing support and reimburse out-of-pocket expenses.

If you'd like to make a real difference while having fun and meeting new people, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note: If this role includes driving members to and from activities, an Enhanced DBS check may be required, as this involves supporting adults at risk.

Are you a care leaver, foster carer or kinship carer? We are looking for new Trustees to join our Board and would particularly love to hear from people with lived experience relevant to our work.

Who we are

The Roots Foundation Wales is an award-winning charity based in Swansea. We support young people in care as they transition to independent living and into adulthood and we also support foster and kinship carers. Our beautiful centre was featured on BBC's DIY SOS and Children in Need in 2017 and we are proud of the community we have built here.

With the help of our young people and carers we have developed a new 3-year Strategic Plan and in 2027 we will be opening a new house with further accommodation for young people.

A message from our Youth Panel

“Roots is our home from home, it’s a place where we can share our personal experiences and always be supported. Building good relationships with the staff and other young people is very important to us. It’s important to have staff who are respectful, caring and trustworthy while being able to have fun and enjoy a bit of banter! We need someone who is honest, responsible and appreciative of the fact that Roots is like our family.”

What we are looking for

We are expanding our Board and are particularly keen to recruit Trustees with lived experience of care, including care leavers and kinship carers. We also encourage applications from young people, disabled people and Welsh speakers and from people based in Swansea and the surrounding area.

As a Trustee you will:

• Help guide the strategic direction of the charity
• Attend online board meetings every two months (usually Tuesday evening, 2 hours)
• Visit Roots 2-3 times a year as a minimum
• Work on sub-committee projects such as finance or safguarding
• Be visible and support the staff and young people
• Expenses are covered and full induction and training will be provided. An enhanced DBS check is required.

You can find out more about Roots, the work we do and the current Trustees here: https://www.therootsfoundation.wales/our-team/

As part of the Government led Communities for Afghans programme, we are looking to recruit individuals or groups (UK BASED ONLY) to make up a team of 6 volunteers to support an Afghan family - you could be friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations are welcome.

We are currently focused on supporting families across Wales, West Midlands and Scotland but be keen to support elsewhere geographically where possible.  With this in mind, you may live in these areas, but we are also delighted to bring volunteers together remotely to support a family. 

You will be at the heart of this programme. It is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference!

The Communities for Afghans programme is a community-led Government initiative supporting families as they rebuild their lives in the UK. It is a Government-approved scheme that enables local people to welcome Afghan refugee families into their community. Volunteers will be supported by us to find housing for a family, provide practical and emotional support enabling them to settle into daily life and feel a genuine sense of belonging in the community.

How community sponsorship work

1. Form a Sponsor Group: Create a team of six or more volunteers — friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations.
2. Training & Ongoing Support: Our partners provide full training, so your group feels confident and well prepared. This simple, practical training is offered before you begin and continues throughout the sponsorship journey.
3. Identify Suitable Housing: With our guidance, your group helps find long-term accommodation. We then match an Afghan family of the appropriate size and ensure the property is suitable and affordable. Government funding is available for rent deposits and related costs.
4. Welcome & Support the Family: Volunteers help the family register with schools, healthcare, benefits, and local services, while introducing them to the community and supporting them as they adjust to life in the UK.
5. Be the Local Point of Contact: You act as the family’s trusted guide, helping them navigate the area, understand local systems, and access opportunities that only residents truly know.
6. Commit for Three Years: Sponsor groups support the family for three years, providing consistency as they grow in independence, confidence, and resilience.

Why Your Support Matters

Volunteering through Community Sponsorship is a powerful act of solidarity. You are not only helping one family — you are strengthening your entire community.

Your support helps families: 

• Rebuild their lives in safety and dignity
• Access education, healthcare, and employment
• Learn English and integrate into the community
• Become confident and independent

And your community benefits:

• Stronger local connections
• Celebrated diversity
• Practical meaningful humanitarian action

Full training and expenses covered.