Social support work volunteer roles

Become an Independent Visitor to be matched one to one with a young person in care. You will meet once or twice a month to take them out to do fun activities together. This is an opportunity for our young people to develop a healthy relationship with a trusted adult, have fun and share their worries and feelings if they are ready to do so.

We'll provide full training, all your expenses and ongoing support from dedicated staff. 

This is an opportunity for you to build skills and knowledge within social care and test yourself with real life experience of a young person in care.

We're looking for enthusiastic, committed people to bring their experience, skills and positivity to the lives of young people who have been through tough times. We will be providing training on the following subjects.

Session 1 Introduction to IV and the Care system
Session 2 Trauma, Attachment and Growth
Session 3 Safeguarding
Session 4 Communications and Boundaries
Session 5 The Role Of The IV

As a Swim Buddy you will be joining the people we support in the water, helping them have fun and encouraging them to swim and play in the pool.

One of our Support Workers will always be there for guidance and they will be responsible for the personal care of your buddy, but they may stay on the side during the time you're in the water.

Skills Required

• To be confident in the water and a good swimmer.

• To be kind, empathetic and friendly.

• To have a good sense of humour and be enthusiastic.

• To be reliable and punctual.

Training required for this role (all delivered vis e-learning)

• Safeguarding

• H&S

• Manual Handling

• How to be Eye Care Aware

• Fire Safety

• Infection Control

• Data Security and Confidentiality

• First Aid

All these courses will take approximately 40-60 minutes, apart from the First Aid which is 2 hours.

Benefits

This is a fantastic opportunity to give something positive back to society and have a direct impact on people’s lives. Being a Swim Buddy is a great way to get out and about, exercise, and help others.

SeeAbility provides training, which can help you to develop new skills.

Volunteers can claim travel expenses.

About Us

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Our Gardener Volunteers support our homes by helping to maintain their outdoor spaces through weeding, pruning and planting, so that the people we support can enjoy spending time in a beautiful environment. 

We are currently looking for volunteer gardeners for one of our services, who can support with the following tasks:

• Create planters

• Provide general maintenance of our gardens

• Watering, planting, weeding and pruning

• Maintaining flower beds

• Creating/improving/maintaining our sensory garden spaces

Skills required 

In order to become one of our gardener volunteers you will be:

• Knowledgeable about plants

• Confident using gardening equipment

• Punctual and reliable

• Friendly and approachable.

Training required for this role (all delivered vis e-learning)

• Safeguarding

• H&S

• Manual Handling

• How to be Eye Care Aware

• Fire Safety

• Infection Control

• Data Security and Confidentiality

• First Aid

All these courses will take approximately 40-60 minutes, apart from the First Aid which is 2 hours.

Benefits

This is a fantastic opportunity to give something positive back to society and have a direct impact on people’s lives.

Gardening is a great way to get out and about, stay fit and meet new people.

Volunteers can claim travel expenses

About us

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Befriender/Independent Visitor Needed across Cumberland. 

 An Independent Visitor is a positive adult role model who provides support and friendship to a young person in care. You will enjoy fun activities together which will give the young person unforgettable memories and experiences. Your consistent friendship will help the young person raise their aspirations, learn new skills, build self-esteem, confidence, and resilience.

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. You do not need any formal qualifications to become a volunteer, but it is helpful if you have some knowledge and practical experience of involvement with children and young people.

Children and young people who are looked after need an adult who has time to spend with them, take them on activities and be someone they can talk to and trust. You can fit your visits in around your own time and work commitments. We only ask that you can commit to a few hours once per month for a minimum of 2 years. 

We urgently require volunteers as an Independent Visitor for children and young people in care. As a volunteer you will:

• Have fun, take young people on outings and maybe share a hobby, sport or interest.
• Offer support and a listening ear and be a positive influence in a young person's life and help build self-esteem and confidence.

You do not need any special qualifications

We are looking for reliable and dependable people from all walks of life

We will provide training and on going support.

Job Type: Volunteer

Schedule:

• Weekdays in school holidays
• Weekend availability needed

Age: 18 years and over?

As part of the recruitment process you will need to complete an application form, interview, enhanced DBS check, references and digital risk assessment.

We offer a full support package including induction training, online mandatory training and one to one support by your IV Coordinator throughout your volunteer journey.

At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe everyone deserves understanding, connection, and the chance to live a fulfilling life. Our volunteers play a vital role in supporting people affected by mental illness and helping create communities where no one feels alone.

About the role

Location: Bristol

Hours: 2 hours per week

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.

This role requires a Basic DBS check, which will be arranged and paid for by Rethink Mental Illness.

As a Volunteer Group Facilitator you will

• Welcome participants and help create a warm, inclusive, and supportive environment
• Support the development of a safe space where individuals feel comfortable sharing as much or as little as they wish
• Assist with setting up before sessions (e.g. arranging chairs, preparing materials, and taking attendance)
• Help tidy and reset the space after sessions
• Collaborate with other volunteers and staff to support the smooth delivery of group activities

About the service

The Bristol Community Support Services team is committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred support. The service focuses on helping individuals achieve their goals, improve their wellbeing, and maintain independence while living with mental illness.

The team includes a Service Manager, Recovery Coaches, a Digital Officer, a Group Development Coordinator, and a Peer and Volunteer Coordinator, all working together to provide a supportive and effective service.

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• Having an interest in mental health and supporting people living with mental illness
• Able to demonstrate strong active listening skills and the ability to build rapport
• Able to relate to people from diverse backgrounds and remains non-judgemental
• Understand the importance of confidentiality
• Reliable and punctual

It's not essential, but you may also bring

• Lived experience of mental health challenges
• Experience of working in group settings

How to apply

To apply, please click the “apply now” button and complete a short interest form. You will have the opportunity to upload a CV and/or cover letter however, this is not mandatory.

A member of the team will review your application and be in touch to update you on the next steps. If your application is successful, you will be invited to take part in an informal volunteer discussion.

Who are we?

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.

At CASPA, we champion autistic pride and create safe, inclusive spaces where autistic individuals can connect, grow, and truly be themselves. 

Our vision is to build a society where autistic individuals feel understood, empowered, and able to be their full selves and live their best lives. 

We’re looking for passionate, friendly volunteers to join our community in a range of exciting roles. Whether you want to build skills, boost your confidence, or simply give back, there’s a place for you at CASPA. 

• Meet like-minded people 

• Learn new skills and gain valuable experience 

• Make a real impact in your community 

•  Have fun while doing something meaningful 

Volunteering with CASPA isn’t just about giving your time, it’s about creating opportunities, building connections, and being part of something truly special.

About the roles 

We are looking for volunteers to support us in a variety of ways: 

• Weekly clubs:  Assist with creating safe, fun, and inclusive sessions in any of our weekly clubs: 

• Tots (early years) 

• Juniors (5-8 years) 

• Inters (9-12 years) 

• Seniors (12-16 years) 

• Adults (16+ years) 

• Trips and holiday clubs: Help during trips and outings, ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences. 

About you 

As a CASPA volunteer, you will: 

• Give your time with dedication and a commitment to doing your best 

• Support CASPA’s charitable work positively 

• Follow all policies and procedures 

• Always respect confidentiality 

• Work in partnership with staff and volunteers to support autistic people 

• Attend relevant training and meetings 

We ask all volunteers to share our values of acceptance, support, community, trust, and communication. This means celebrating difference, being kind and caring, building connection, creating safety, and communicating openly and honestly. 

We also look for a way of working that is committed, learning-focused, proactive, organised, and optimistic. This means staying focused on CASPA’s mission, developing skills, taking initiative, managing responsibilities well, and promoting autistic pride. 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. 

We are keen to attract volunteers with lived experience of autism. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age and disability. 

Please note that volunteers must have the right to work in the UK for the full duration of their volunteering, as we are unable to offer visa sponsorship. 

Are you a big football fan who enjoys playing football as well as watching it?

We are looking for volunteer football enthusiasts to both play football and enjoy talking all things football with someone with learning disabilities and or autism.  As a volunteer you will need to be able to volunteer for a couple of hours each week.

What does the role involve?

Our football volunteers will enjoy spending time having a kick about, perhaps watching a game on TV and perhaps having a post-match discussion. Trips to watch the odd live game would also be an enjoyable experience for the people we support.

Skills required: -

• To be kind, empathetic and friendly

• To have a good sense of humour and love to chat

• Good communication skills

• Positive & supporting attitude

• To be punctual and reliable

• Commitment to inclusion

• To be able to deal with information in line with our data protection and confidentiality procedures

• Becoming one of our football volunteers will provide opportunities for those we support to increase their confidence, boost their mood and keep fit. 

• Training and ongoing support from SeeAbility staff.

• The chance to develop new skills in accessible communication and inclusive practice.

• Being part of a warm, welcoming community that values every individual.

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses.

• This is a fantastic opportunity to give something positive back to society and have a direct impact on people’s lives. Being a football volunteer is a great way to get out and about, exercise, and help others

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

The Befriender 'In Home' Volunteer will play an important role by providing companionship to someone we support at our supported living service by spending time with them, visiting them in the home and doing activities they enjoy. These might include chatting over a cup of tea, reading books, playing board games, etc.

Skills Required

· To be kind, empathetic and friendly

· To have a good sense of humour and love to chat

· To be punctual and reliable

· To be able to deal with information in line with our data protection and confidentiality procedures

Training required for this role (all delivered vis e-learning)

· Safeguarding

· H&S

· Manual Handling

· How to be Eye Care Aware

· Fire Safety

· Infection Control

· Data Security and Confidentiality

· First Aid

All these courses will take approximately 40-60 minutes, apart from the First Aid which is 2 hours.

Benefits

· This is a fantastic opportunity to have a direct impact upon the lives of others. 

· Befriending is a great way to keep active and meet new people.

· SeeAbility provides training and this can help you to develop new skills.

· Volunteers can claim travel expenses.

About Us

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time. SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Become an Independent Visitor to be matched one to one with a young person in care. You will meet once or twice a month to take them out to do fun activities together. This is an opportunity for our young people to develop a healthy relationship with a trusted adult, have fun and share their worries and feelings if they are ready to do so.

We'll provide full training, all your expenses and ongoing support from dedicated staff. 

This is an opportunity for you to build skills and knowledge within social care and test yourself with real life experience of a young person in care.

We're looking for enthusiastic, committed people to bring their experience, skills and positivity to the lives of young people who have been through tough times. We will be providing training on the following subjects.

Session 1 Introduction to IV and the Care system
Session 2 Trauma, Attachment and Growth
Session 3 Safeguarding
Session 4 Communications and Boundaries
Session 5 The Role Of The IV

Location

A range of volunteer opportunities across Bexley and Dartford, designed to fit your schedule.

Current Elderberries Vintage Tea Rooms Locations

Monday 12 pm - 3 pm​

Wilmington Community Church, Wilmington,

Broad Lane, DA2 7AQ

​​

Tuesday 10.30 am - 1.30 pm

Wolsley House, Wolsley Close,

Crayford, DA1 4BE​

​

Thursday 10.30 am - 1.00 pm

8th Bexleyheath Scout Group

32 Westbrooke Road

Welling, DA16 1PR

​​

Friday 2 pm - 4 pm

Baldwyns Park Baptist Church,

Bexley, DA5 2AT​

Time Commitment

Flexible and agreed in advance according to the location needs. This role includes regular support sessions and occasional cover for the Cook during planned or unplanned absence.

Role Summary

The volunteer kitchen support (deputy cook) supports the delivery of Evergreen Care UK’s community café services. You will work alongside the Cook and wider team to help create a welcoming, well-run environment where people feel connected and included.

A key part of this role is providing occasional cover for the Cook, helping ensure the café can continue to run smoothly. You will be supported by the wider team when doing so.

This role is designed to provide additional support and occasional cover. The overall responsibility for service delivery remains with Evergreen Care UK staff.

This is a practical, hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys cooking, being part of a team, and contributing to a positive community space.

About Evergreen Care UK

Evergreen Care UK is a charity rooted in a Christian ethos, guided by our values of Compassion, Dignity, Connection, and Trust. We welcome and serve people of all faiths and none.

Our services support people in later life to live independently, reduce loneliness, and remain connected to their communities. Our cafés play an important role in bringing people together, creating opportunities for connection through shared meals and conversation.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Support:
- Support the Cook in preparing and serving nutritious, home-cooked meals
- Assist with food preparation, cooking, and service
- Help maintain a clean, organised, and safe kitchen environment

Kitchen Cover:
- Provide cover for the Cook when required, supporting the preparation and serving of meals
- Help ensure the kitchen continues to run safely and smoothly, with support from the team

Environment & Experience:
- Contribute to a welcoming and inclusive café environment
- Engage positively with guests, supporting a friendly and relaxed atmosphere
- Work alongside volunteers and team members to create a strong sense of community

Standards & Safety:
- Follow Food Hygiene and Health & Safety guidance
- Support good kitchen practices and cleanliness
- Be aware of safeguarding and raise any concerns appropriately

Volunteer Support

- Work alongside other volunteers in a supportive and collaborative way
- Help create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued
- Share knowledge and support others where appropriate

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who:
- Enjoys cooking and working as part of a team
- Is reliable and able to offer a degree of flexibility
- Feels confident supporting kitchen tasks and stepping in when needed
- Has a positive and approachable manner
- Is motivated by contributing to a meaningful community service

Experience in cooking for groups or a café setting is helpful but not essential. Training and support will be provided where needed.

Our Values in Action

- Compassion – creating a welcoming and supportive environment
- Dignity – treating every person with respect
- Connection – helping build a sense of belonging
- Trust – being dependable and supportive within the team

What You Can Expect

- To be part of a welcoming and supportive team
- To contribute to a service that makes a real difference in the community
- Opportunities to build confidence, skills, and experience
- Reimbursement of reasonable expenses in line with Evergreen policies

Safeguarding and Support

Evergreen Care UK is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of those we support.

Volunteers will be supported to understand their role in safeguarding and are expected to raise any concerns appropriately.

An enhanced DBS check may be required depending on the nature of the role.

Flexibility

This role description outlines the main aspects of the volunteer role but is not exhaustive. As a small, values-driven organisation, flexibility and teamwork are important.

Do you enjoying talking with people and helping them based on your life experiences?

Are you able to volunteer a few hours a week?

Yes? We’d love to hear from you.

What is knus?

knus is the UK’s first free, confidential, mental health peer support and coaching online chat service. knus offers mental health educational plans, relaxation experiences and live workshops.

What does knus mean? 'hug' in Danish.

Here’s some further information on what’s needed:

Are you over 18 and living in the UK?

You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.

Do you have a laptop?

A laptop and a quiet space to volunteer is essential.

How much time can you give?

A minimum of 2+ hours per week is required. We are flexible and like to work around you.

Do you like to learn?

We provide training for all volunteers that join us. Our peer support training is accredited.  20-25 hours of volunteering training is required and is self led online.

If you’re interested head over to our website and we can have a chat or apply here.

Please note - all successful volunteers are required to donate the cost price of £22.60 for an Enhanced DBS check.  If you've got a current Enhanced DBS on the update service, this cost will not apply.

You must be a UK resident to apply for this role.

Job Description:

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 crises or challenging situations.

Purpose of Volunteer Role

The Women & Families Resource Centre has always relied on the dedication and skills of volunteers to offer practical & emotional support to women & families. As the charity grows, we require volunteers to participate in fundraising roles to help us generate much-needed income to continue to help the numerous families we support every year. We are increasing our community fundraising goals and this is an exciting time to help us grow.

Task Description

Fundraising volunteers will take part in a variety of activities to raise money for WFRC - some planned at the start of the year, and some arising during the year. Activities may include volunteering at our fundraising sales or car boot sales; helping at our fundraising events; doing bucket collections; helping at corporate fundraising events; or working with the grants team to seek material donations.

Skills and Personal Qualities

- A team player and reliable

- Enthusiastic and enjoys engaging with the public

- Good communication skills

Benefits:

• Flexible working hours

• Work from home opportunities

Work Location: In person

About Us

Influential Stars is a purpose driven platform connecting creators, supporters, and causes through exclusive experiences and campaigns that raise funds for UK charitable organisations. We are a growing team committed to delivering meaningful impact through professionally managed experiences.

Our Story

Influential Stars was founded by Lisa Connell, who is living with an inoperable brain tumour and has spent many years raising awareness and support for UK causes. The platform was created from a deeply personal belief that influence, connection, and community can be powerful forces for good when brought together in the right way.

Volunteers play a vital role in helping turn that vision into real world impact, enabling experiences that raise funds, create joy for winners, and support charitable organisations across the UK.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced, confident, and creative Volunteer Social Media Manager to take ownership of Influential Stars’ social media presence across multiple platforms.

This is a hands-on role for someone capable of planning, creating, and scheduling purposeful content that raises awareness, builds community engagement, and supports campaigns across the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and grow Influential Stars’ social media presence across platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn

• Plan, create, and schedule consistent content aligned with the organisation’s mission and tone of voice

• Develop content that inspires awareness, connection, and positive action

• Share stories, campaigns, and updates in a sensitive and engaging way

• Maintain content calendars and scheduling systems

• Monitor engagement and respond appropriately where required

• Coordinate with internal team members to ensure accurate and timely messaging

• Maintain brand consistency across all channels

• Stay informed about platform trends and opportunities to increase reach

Skills and Experience Required

Essential:

• Proven experience managing social media across multiple platforms

• Strong understanding of engagement and awareness driven content

• Excellent written communication skills and attention to tone

• Confidence working independently and taking ownership of output

• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage content schedules

• Proactive, reliable, and professional approach

• Genuine connection to the organisation’s mission and values

Desirable:

• Experience managing accounts for charities, community organisations, or purpose led brands

• Familiarity with social media scheduling tools and analytics

• Experience working remotely within a team

• Based in London or Hertfordshire for occasional in person meetings (not essential)

Working Arrangement

• Fully remote position

• Flexible working hours depending on organisational needs

• Workload may vary as campaigns increase

• Occasional (optional) in person team meetings

Why Volunteer With Us

• Play a key role in shaping how a purpose driven platform communicates with the public

• Help amplify campaigns that support charities and individuals facing difficult circumstances

• Gain valuable senior level experience and portfolio visibility

• Join a mission driven organisation at an exciting stage of growth

• Flexible volunteering that can fit around other commitments

• Opportunity to contribute creatively while making a meaningful difference

Although this is currently a volunteer position, Influential Stars is actively working to grow the platform with the long term aim of creating paid roles. While we are unable to provide a timeframe and future opportunities will depend on the organisation’s growth and incoming work, this role offers the chance to be part of that journey from an early stage.

Title: Day Care volunteer

Responsible to: Day Care Co-ordinator

Overall Purpose: To support the smooth running of day care sessions by helping create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all.

An exciting opportunity to work as part of this local charity, supporting vulnerable residents . 

·

Key responbilities

· Prepare and serve tea, coffee, and light refreshments.

· Greet guests warmly and engage in friendly conversation.

· Help create a welcoming and inclusive environment.

· Keep the kitchen and refreshment area clean, tidy, and well‑stocked.

· Wash up and maintain cleanliness of utensils and surfaces.

· Follow basic food hygiene and health & safety guidelines.

· Assist with setting up and packing away before and after sessions.

Skills and Knowledge

· Awareness of, or experience in, supporting adults with a range of care, support or health needs.

· Positive and welcoming interpersonal skills.

· Confident communication skills.

Attitude and Personal Qualities

 · Friendly, approachable, and reliable.

· Able to work well as part of a team.

A willingness to be flexible and perform varied tasks