730 Social support work volunteer roles

Job Title:        Social Media Lead

Job Type:         Voluntary

Hours: 14 hours per week

Reports to: Executive Director

Location: Home Working/fully remote

Who we are:

ARFID Awareness UK are the UK’s only charity dedicated to raising awareness and furthering information about Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). A not-for-profit; we work to provide individuals, parents and medical professionals with up-to-date relevant information, research and support.

Can you help us?

ARFID Awareness UK are looking for a passionate and innovative Media and Communications Officer to join our dedicated team.  In this role, you will be at the forefront of our efforts to raise awareness and understanding of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) through compelling storytelling and strategic communication. We seek an individual who is not only skilled in media relations and digital communication but also deeply committed to our mission of supporting individuals and families affected by ARFID. If you have a flair for creative content creation, a strategic mindset, and a desire to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to be a part of our journey in transforming lives and fostering awareness.

The role:

Content Creation:

• Develop engaging and informative content for various platforms, including websites, newsletters, blogs, and social media to promote awareness of ARFID.
• Create multimedia materials, including graphics, videos, and infographics, to effectively communicate our message and reach diverse audiences

Social Media Management:

• Manage and oversee all social media accounts, including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn, to enhance our online presence and engage with followers.
• Respond to queries, comments, and messages across all social media platforms promptly and professionally, fostering positive interactions and building community

Media Relations:

• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, bloggers, and influencers to promote ARFID Awareness UK and its initiatives through earned media coverage.
• Draft press releases, media kits, and other materials to effectively communicate news and updates about the organisation as required

Strategic Communication:

• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy that aligns with the organisation’s goals and objectives.
• Monitor and analyse media coverage and social media engagement to assess the effectiveness of communication efforts and make data-driven improvements

Event Promotion:

• Support the planning and promotion of events, workshops, and campaigns, ensuring effective communication and outreach to target audiences.
• Create promotional materials and outreach strategies to maximize participation and engagement for events

Crisis Communication:

• Assist in managing crisis communication by developing timely and appropriate responses to issues or inquiries that may arise in the media or on social media

Experience:

• Proven experience in a media, communications, or public relations role, preferably within the non-profit or healthcare sector.
• Demonstrated experience in managing social media platforms and engaging with diverse audiences effectively.
• Experience in content creation, including writing press releases, articles, and digital content for various channels.
• Previous involvement in organising and promoting events or campaigns is advantageous

Person Specification:

• Successful candidates must demonstrate a significant number of the following:
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to various audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with a friendly and approachable demeanour for engaging with the community and media.
• Excellent organisational abilities, with a keen eye for detail and the capacity to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• A creative thinker who can generate innovative ideas for content and campaigns, with a passion for storytelling.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also demonstrating initiative and independence when required.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and work in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating resilience and problem-solving skills
• A genuine interest in and understanding of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and its impact on individuals and families.
• Proficiency in using design software (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) for creating visuals, as well as skills in video editing tools.
• Familiarity with analytics tools to measure the effectiveness of social media campaigns and communication efforts

Qualifications:

• Relevant certifications in social media management, digital marketing, or public relations would be an advantage.
• Continuous professional development in communications and media trends

Join our team and contribute to driving the mission of AFRID Awareness UK forward, ensuring that our message reaches those who need it most while fostering a supportive community around ARFID.

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 Telford.

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 formas fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

Volunteer: Reading Volunteer

Hours: Flexible, as agreed

Do you love getting lost in a good book? Are you patient, kind, and passionate about helping others enjoy stories and conversation? Join us as a Reading Volunteer at SeeAbility and help make reading fun, inclusive, and meaningful for people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss.

What You Will Be Doing

As a Reading Volunteer, you will spend time reading with and supporting people we support to enjoy books, stories, magazines, poetry, and conversation. This could include:

• Reading aloud in a relaxed and friendly way
• Supporting people to choose books and topics they enjoy
• Encouraging communication, confidence, and imagination
• Sharing laughter, conversation, and meaningful one-to-one time
• Helping create a calm and enjoyable reading experience

Whether it’s a favourite childhood story, an audiobook, or discovering something new together, your time will help bring books to life.

The Difference You Will Make

For many people we support, reading and shared storytelling can reduce isolation, build confidence, improve communication, and create joyful moments of connection.

Your support could help someone:

• Feel more included and valued
• Develop confidence and social skills
• Discover new interests and experiences
• Enjoy companionship and meaningful interaction
• Experience the comfort and fun that stories can bring

Sometimes, simply having someone patient and understanding to spend time with can make a huge difference.

Skills Required

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Friendly, patient, and reliable
• Empathic, understanding, and encouraging
• Passionate about books, stories, and conversation
• Good listeners with a positive attitude
• Comfortable supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss

No previous experience is required — just enthusiasm, kindness, and a love of reading.

Requirements

• Complete a DBS check
• Provide references
• Complete online training provided by SeeAbility

We will support you throughout the process.

The Benefits of Volunteering

• Gaining valuable experience and skills
• Meeting new people and becoming part of a supportive team
• Making a genuine difference in someone’s life
• Building confidence and communication skills
• Sharing your love of books and storytelling
• Receiving training and ongoing support
• We cover travel expenses up to 20 miles

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.

The role in a nutshell:

You will work closely with an older person to help them set personal goals, build their confidence, and take practical steps to reconnect with their local community.

What will you be doing?

You will meet the older person you are matched with for 1 to 2+ hours a week over a period of up to 6 months to support them in working towards their goals. Depending on their individual action plan, you may:

• Visit them at home: Provide a regular, supportive social connection while helping them identify steps to overcome isolation.
• Act as a Community Connector: Accompany them on short walks, meet in a local café, or help them access local social groups, libraries, or physical activities.
• Support Goal Setting: Gently encourage them to build positive, sustainable connections and regain independence after a life challenge (such as a bereavement, illness, or hospital stay).
• Manage Boundaries and Endings: Work with the client to understand the time-limited nature of the support and help them prepare for the end of the 6-month intervention.
• Keep Accurate Records: Keep track of the client's progress, take brief notes after each session, and share weekly updates with your Programme Coordinator.

How would you be supported in this role?

We value our volunteers immensely and want to ensure you feel confident and safe in your role. You can expect:

• Comprehensive Training: A full induction and access to mandatory eLearning modules.
• Ongoing Supervision: Regular check-ins with your dedicated Programme Coordinator, plus access to volunteer meet-ups to share ideas and overcome barriers together.
• Clear Boundaries: A clearly defined voluntary role within the organisation with robust out-of-hours and emergency support procedures.
• Reimbursement: Agreed out-of-pocket expenses (such as local travel) will be fully reimbursed.
• References: We are happy to provide references for you after 6 months of active volunteering.

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 formas fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

The role in a nutshell:

As a Community Connector Volunteer, you will help Age UK Barnet reduce loneliness and isolation by building a short-term but meaningful relationship with an older person.

What will you be doing?

You will meet an older person you’ve been matched with once a week over a six-month period to support them in working towards their goals. Depending on their needs, you may:
•Visit them at home
•Go for a walk
•Meet in a local community space, such as a library or a café
•Help them access local groups or services
•Encourage them to build positive and sustainable connections
•To support with digital inclusion.
• Assist with planning and arranging journeys using public transport, helping to overcome barriers to travel and independence 
•Accompany clients to social, recreational, or community-based activities

You will keep track of their progress and share updates with the Enabling Connections coordinator.

As a Community Connector Volunteer, we ask you to:

•Attend an induction session
•Complete essential training, including goal‑setting and safeguarding
•Have access to one‑to‑one check in calls. 

Receive support from a dedicated project coordinator

You may need to travel locally to meet the older person or accompany them to services, and any travelling expenses can be reimbursed.

You will also be asked to take brief notes after each session and share them with your project coordinator.

How would you be supported in this role?

In addition to providing you any relevant training for the role, we will also provide you with check-ins, a key contact or other functions to ensure you are best supported as a volunteer.

The Women & Families Resource Centre (WFRC) is a registered charity based in Wolverhampton which supports, empowers and advocates for women and children. We aim to actively encourage women to be self-reliant, through empowering them to identify their own needs, make their own choices and create their own solutions.

We offer short term home visits, counselling sessions, practical & emotional one to one support, domestic violence groups, awareness raising workshops and drop in or chat groups to help women facing crisises or challenging situations.

Purpose

As a Volunteer Group Facilitator, you will play an important role in supporting group sessions and workshops. You will help create a welcoming, inclusive, and comfortable environment where everyone feels valued and able to participate.

Your responsibilities may include engaging with group members through conversation, welcoming participants as they arrive, and supporting the smooth running of sessions by helping with set-up and clear-up tasks. You may also assist with taking attendance at the start of each session.

Full training and regular supervision will be provided, so you’ll feel confident and supported in your role.

Main Duties & Responsibilities 

• Welcome participants and help create a warm, inclusive, and supportive environment

What will make you a great fit for this role

• Able to demonstrate strong active listening skills and the ability to build rapport
• Able to relate to people from diverse backgrounds and remain non-judgemental
• 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
• Reliable and punctual

It's not essential, but you may also bring;

•  Previous experience working in group settings  

You will help older people feel more confident and connected. From the comfort of your home, you’ll research options and link them with local and national services that can make a real difference.

In this role, no two days are the same. You might:

- Research social activities and follow up with someone to help them feel less lonely

- Arrange transport for someone with mobility challenges to get to a day centre or lunch club

- Find trusted tradespeople, like gardeners, to help someone stay independent at home

- Make calls on behalf of someone who lacks the confidence to do so themselves

- Connect people with their local Age UK or similar organisations

- Each call is different, but all make a real difference to older people’s lives.

Older people are at the heart of everything we do at Age UK. You don’t need prior experience, we’ll provide full training and ongoing support. It’s helpful if you understand the challenges people may face in later life and will need some awareness of local and national services older people can be referred to. 

Strong communication skills and basic confidence using computers and online tools are important for this role.

You’ll get full training and an induction, so you feel confident in your role. We’ll provide regular check-ins, team support sessions, and opportunities to connect with other volunteers for peer support.

This role takes place Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm. We’ll work with you to find times that suit you within these hours.

As an Age UK volunteer, you'll get discounts on Age Co. products and services, plus offers from other brands through our discounts portal. Just ask your volunteer manager to find out what other perks are available.

Refugee Support Volunteer

Location: Folkestone, Kent (Wednesdays 12:00pm to 4:00pm) or Dartford, Kent (Fridays 10:00am to 1:00pm)
Time commitment: One half-day per week

Preferred commitment: We welcome applications from anyone able to volunteer regularly. While there is no minimum commitment, volunteers who stay for six months or longer often have the greatest impact and consistency for the refugees we support and allows volunteers to gain the most from their experience.

Expenses: Travel and lunch expenses reimbursed in line with our volunteer expenses policy.

Help Refugees Build Confidence and Independence

Do you want to make a meaningful difference in your local community?

The Refugee Council is looking for compassionate and enthusiastic volunteers to support refugees who have recently been resettled in Kent. This is a rewarding opportunity to help people rebuild their lives, develop confidence and become more independent as they settle into their new communities.

You do not need previous experience of working with refugees. We are looking for people who are patient, supportive, reliable and committed to helping others thrive. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.

About the Role

As a Refugee Support Volunteer, you will work alongside our Kent Resettlement Team, helping refugees gain the confidence and skills needed to access services independently and participate fully in community life.

You may support people to:

• Learn how to use digital services and online accounts
• Access NHS, Universal Credit and immigration-related online systems
• Build confidence using email, websites and mobile apps
• Understand appointment booking systems and telephone services
• Discover local activities, services and community groups
• Develop social connections and reduce isolation
• Build confidence communicating directly with services and organisations

This is a person-centred role focused on encouraging independence through coaching and guided support rather than doing things for people.

Who We're Looking For

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and life experiences.

Someone who has:

• An Interest in refugee issues and social justice
• Good communication and listening skills
• Basic digital confidence
• Reliability and professionalism
• Respect for people from diverse backgrounds
• A willingness to learn and work as part of a team

You may be:

• Already involved in your local community and wanting to make a difference
• A student looking to gain experience in the charity sector
• Someone considering a career in social work, education, housing, health or community development
• Retired and looking to use your skills to support others in your local community

A second language is welcome but not essential.

What You'll Gain

Volunteering with the Refugee Council offers the chance to:

• Gain practical experience supporting refugees within a professional resettlement service
• Develop coaching, communication and interpersonal skills
• Learn about refugee experiences and the UK resettlement programme
• Build experience within the voluntary and community sector
• Receive comprehensive induction and role-specific training
• Access training and development opportunities
• Work alongside experienced refugee support professionals
• Strengthen skills relevant to careers across the charity, public and community sectors

About Refugee Council

The Refugee Council is one of the UK's leading organisations supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. We work to help people rebuild their lives safely, integrate into local communities and achieve independence.

Our values are: Inclusive • Collaborative • Courageous • Respectful

Interested?

We would love to hear from you.

Help refugees rebuild their lives in Kent. Volunteer with the Refugee Council today.

Volunteering Opportunity

Ucan Enfield Ambassador

What You’ll Do

As a UCAN Enfield Ambassador, you’ll play a key role in helping people find out about and engage with the UCAN project, which promotes healthy lifestyle changes through free exercise, nutrition and wellbeing sessions. You’ll help support sessions on the day and raise awareness in the community.

You will:

• Attend UCAN exercise or nutrition sessions to take the register and gather feedback from attendees
• Represent UCAN at community events or groups by helping to set up an information stall
• Talk to members of the public about UCAN and help them sign up
• Input register or sign-up data into the CRM system (training provided)

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

• Friendly, confident communication with the public
• Ability to use simple digital forms
• Reliable, organised and a good team player
• Willingness to learn and follow data protection guidance

Time Commitment

Flexible – ideally 2–4 hours per week
May include weekdays or occasional weekends depending on events and session schedules

Location: Various community venues across Enfield
Reports to: UCAN Enfield Project Lead or Practitioner

Ready to Apply?

Our Volunteer Opportunities Pack and Volunteer Application Form are attached and available to download.

If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, simply complete the application form and email it to us. (Email address included in the application pack)

Once we've received your application, we'll arrange an informal telephone chat to discuss the volunteer role(s) you're interested in, answer any questions you may have, and help you find the opportunity that's the best fit for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Help Shape Aspire Oxfordshire's Next 25 Years

As Aspire Oxfordshire approaches its 25th anniversary, we are looking for new Trustees to help shape the next chapter of our journey.

For almost 25 years, Aspire has supported people across Oxfordshire experiencing homelessness, poverty and disadvantage to build safer, healthier and more independent lives. Through supported accommodation, employment and training, homelessness prevention and personalised support, we help people create lasting change.

As we look ahead, we have ambitious plans to grow our impact, strengthen partnerships, increase fundraising and continue delivering high-quality, person-centred services. We are seeking passionate, values-led individuals to join our Board and help guide our future.

As a Trustee, you will provide strategic leadership, constructive challenge and oversight, working alongside fellow Trustees and our Executive Leadership Team to ensure Aspire remains well governed, financially sustainable and focused on delivering the greatest possible impact.

Previous Trustee experience is not essential. We welcome people who share our values, bring professional expertise and want to make a positive difference. A full induction and ongoing support will be provided.

We are particularly interested in people with experience in:

Fundraising, Communications and Social Media
Helping diversify income, build supporter engagement and raise Aspire's profile.

Charity Governance and Employment
Knowledge of the charity sector, governance, HR or employment law to support good governance and organisational development.

Social Housing and Welfare
Experience of housing, homelessness, welfare benefits or housing policy to strengthen our understanding of the sector and the people we support.

Charity Finance and Risk Management
Experience in finance, accountancy, audit or risk management to support effective financial oversight and long-term sustainability.

As a Trustee you will:

• Help shape Aspire's strategic direction.
• Ensure strong governance, compliance and financial sustainability.
• Provide independent support and constructive challenge.
• Act in the best interests of the charity and the people we support.
• Champion Aspire and help strengthen partnerships and opportunities.

Time Commitment

The role is voluntary and designed to fit alongside professional and personal commitments.

Trustees will typically attend:

• Four hybrid Board meetings each year.
• Four online meetings each year as a member of one Board sub-committee.
• Occasional additional meetings or events where appropriate.

Why Join Aspire?

This is an opportunity to make a genuine difference while helping shape the future of an ambitious and growing charity. You'll work alongside an experienced and supportive Board, helping more people secure safe housing, employment and independence.

Aspire Oxfordshire is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We believe a diverse Board leads to stronger governance and better outcomes for the communities we serve.

Join us as we celebrate 25 years of changing lives—and help shape the next 25 years.

If you are passionate about making a difference and would like to use your skills and experience to support a growing local charity, we would love to hear from you.

Whether this is your first Trustee role or you are an experienced Board member, if you share our values and believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build a safe, independent and fulfilling life, we encourage you to apply.

Together, we can help shape Aspire Oxfordshire's next 25 years.

Help us to shape the future of a specialist organisation advocating for rights, justice and action for Black and minoritised migrant women. 

About Hibiscus 

The women supported by Hibiscus have been subjected to violence against women and girls (VAWG) including trafficking, modern slavery, sexual violence, rape, violence against women in war, conflict and post-conflict and institutional violence among other forms of violence. Hibiscus continues to develop specialist services from an intersectional feminist and trauma-informed perspective addressing everyday experiences of violence to which women are subjected and institutional harms.

Hibiscus is seeking new Trustees to join our Board and support the next stage of our work. This is an opportunity to contribute to the governance of an intersectional feminist, anti racist organisation and support women navigating complex immigration and criminal justice systems to drive lasting change for the women we serve.

As a Trustee, you will work collectively with the Board to provide strategic direction, uphold Hibiscus’ values, ensure sound governance and compliance, oversee financial sustainability, and support effective organisational decision-making.

About You

We are looking for Women who can bring:

• A commitment to Hibiscus' mission, values and objectives
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• The ability to contribute effectively to Board discussions and decision-making
• A willingness to provide constructive challenge and support
• An understanding of good governance and accountability
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

What will your gain 

By becoming a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to use your skills and experience to influence meaningful change, support a vital organisation, and help improve the lives of women facing multiple and intersecting disadvantages.

Join us in creating a fairer and more equitable future for the women we serve!

Please note: This post is restricted to women only as a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9 paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010.

Please read our Application Pack Provided with instrutions on how to Apply.

Closing date: Wednesday 30th September 5pm.

About the role 

We are looking for a motivated Communications and Marketing Volunteer to support Real’s communications and help us reach more Disabled people and our wider community. 

You will work closely with Real’s Communications and Marketing Coordinator and gain practical experience across social media, digital communications, campaigns and design. 

What you will be doing 

As a Communications and Marketing Volunteer, you will help us: 

• Draft engaging social media posts for Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook. 

• Help design accessible and engaging posters and other promotional materials. 

• Schedule social media content using our social media scheduling platform. 

• Help plan and organise communications campaigns around upcoming events, activities and other key dates. 

• Draft copy for Real’s email newsletters. 

• Help design and format newsletters in Mailchimp. 

• Support the creation and design of other communications materials, including reports where appropriate. 

• Work with the Communications and Marketing Coordinator to develop new ideas for promoting Real’s work. 

• Help ensure our communications are clear, accessible and consistent with Real’s values and brand.