Social welfare volunteer volunteer roles
Support the work of St John Ambulance in your community by volunteering as a Community Volunteer, an exciting new role which is designed to revamp how volunteering looks in the modern world; flexible, innovative and is open for all.
We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient. Community Volunteers can choose from a wide selection of activities – including fundraising, talks and demonstrations, supporting at events, volunteer welfare, social media and administration support.
Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives.
Give as much (or little) time as you can afford. With this new role, you simply volunteer when it works for you. That means you can give as much time as you like or as little as 24 hours across a whole year, whenever it suits you. It’s perfect for busy lives, changing schedules, or for anyone seeking a low-commitment involvement.
The Community Volunteer provides an easy way to stay connected and contribute meaningfully to your local community. Here are some examples of what you could do:
- Community fundraising
- Talks and demonstrations
- Support at events
- Volunteer welfare
- Community Roadshows
- Supporting national campaigns
- Counting and banking money
- Booking events
- Supporting Networks
- Administration support
- Writing thank you and community letters
- Media and social media
- Community news and Network newsletters
Through volunteering as a Community Volunteer, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Once we have completed your selection and screening for this role, we will provide you with an induction, as well as invite you to any necessary training sessions. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.
There is no clinical training, just online mandatory modules relevant to the role.
You will need to be interviewed, and then screened, and then complete the online training. You can then start attending the Network sessions and come out and do the role.
You will be allocated a mentor within the Network. You will be expected to attend Community Engagement events and deliver the St John values to the general public.
There is no clinical training. You will need to complete the mandatory online modules relevant to the role.
Closing date for these opportunities is: 08/03/2026
To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
As branch chair you and your branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.
What you will be doing
- Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising activities so that potential beneficiaries, volunteers and supporters are aware of SSAFA as first in mind for support.
- Building relationships with the regional and national SSAFA team, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA serving community teams, local military establishments, etc.
- Attending events as a key SSAFA representative.
- Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s central office
- Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
- Working with other volunteers, regional and national team members to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
- Work closely with the community engagement co-ordinator to recruit, welcome, induct, support, and manage volunteers in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
The skills you need
- Motivating leadership with an ability lead a team of volunteers.
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area.
- Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community.
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
- Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.
The difference you will make to cats and people
As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you!
What you can expect us to
- Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
- Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
- Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
- Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities
What we need from you
This is a really flexible role – you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example:
- face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins
- online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations
- marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press
- completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork
- championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
- photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection
- You’ll need to be aged 18+ to volunteer in this role. If you’re aged 16-17, you’ll need to be supervised by a friend, family member, or guardian over the age of 18 in order to carry out any fundraising activity.
Time expectation
This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!
You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!
We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
As branch chair you and your branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.
What you will be doing
- Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising activities so that potential beneficiaries, volunteers and supporters are aware of SSAFA as first in mind for support.
- Building relationships with the regional and national SSAFA team, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA serving community teams, local military establishments, etc.
- Attending events as a key SSAFA representative.
- Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s central office
- Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
- Working with other volunteers, regional and national team members to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
- Work closely with the community engagement co-ordinator to recruit, welcome, induct, support, and manage volunteers in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
The skills you need
- Motivating leadership with an ability lead a team of volunteers.
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area.
- Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community.
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
- Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.
The difference you will make to cats and people
As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you!
What you can expect us to
- Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
- Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
- Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
- Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities
What we need from you
This is a really flexible role – you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example:
- face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins
- online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations
- marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press
- completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork
- championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
- photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection
- You’ll need to be aged 18+ to volunteer in this role. If you’re aged 16-17, you’ll need to be supervised by a friend, family member, or guardian over the age of 18 in order to carry out any fundraising activity.
Time expectation
This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!
You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!
We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.
The difference you will make to cats and people
As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you!
What you can expect us to
- Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
- Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
- Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
- Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities
What we need from you
This is a really flexible role – you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example:
- face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins
- online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations
- marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press
- completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork
- championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
- photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection
- You’ll need to be aged 18+ to volunteer in this role. If you’re aged 16-17, you’ll need to be supervised by a friend, family member, or guardian over the age of 18 in order to carry out any fundraising activity.
Time expectation
This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!
You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!
We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.
The difference you will make to cats and people
As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you!
What you can expect us to
- Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
- Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
- Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
- Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities
What we need from you
This is a really flexible role – you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example:
- face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins
- online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations
- marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press
- completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork
- championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
- photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection
- You’ll need to be aged 18+ to volunteer in this role. If you’re aged 16-17, you’ll need to be supervised by a friend, family member, or guardian over the age of 18 in order to carry out any fundraising activity.
Time expectation
This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!
You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!
We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you a fluent Romanian speaker with a passion for helping others? We are seeking dedicated volunteers to assist women in improving their English language skills. Improving someone’s understanding and spoken English language, will allow individuals to communicate and connect with people in their local community, widen their network of friendships and relationships, and provide people opportunity to improve their employability skills. We are looking for a face-to-face volunteer for a minimum of 1 hour per week who is available between hours 11am – 2.30pm Monday-Friday!
What you will be doing
- To support individuals who are not confident with spoken English to develop their reading, writing and conversational skills through one-to-one sessions.
- Agree a mutual agreeable time and frequency that works for both parties
- Engage in conversation, allowing the person to feel supported and comfortable to practice speaking English Preparing and delivering sessions independently including setting work and assessing
- To keep records of conversations and update the support worker on progress of sessions.
- Support with preparing for the “Live in the UK Citizenship Test”
The skills you need
- Good communication skills
- Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere
- Fluent in Romanian and English
What's in it for you
- Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
- Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
- Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.
We deliver services across London as well as campaign and advocate nationally on the issues that affect the people we work with.



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Support the work of St John Ambulance in your community by volunteering as a Community Volunteer, an exciting new role which is designed to revamp how volunteering looks in the modern world; flexible, innovative and is open for all.
We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient. Community Volunteers can choose from a wide selection of activities – including fundraising, talks and demonstrations, supporting at events, volunteer welfare, social media and administration support.
Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives.
Give as much (or little) time as you can afford. With this new role, you simply volunteer when it works for you. That means you can give as much time as you like or as little as 24 hours across a whole year, whenever it suits you. It’s perfect for busy lives, changing schedules, or for anyone seeking a low-commitment involvement.
The Community Volunteer provides an easy way to stay connected and contribute meaningfully to your local community. Here are some examples of what you could do:
- Community fundraising
- Talks and demonstrations
- Support at events
- Volunteer welfare
- Community Roadshows
- Supporting national campaigns
- Counting and banking money
- Booking events
- Supporting Networks
- Administration support
- Writing thank you and community letters
- Media and social media
- Community news and Network newsletters
Through volunteering as a Community Volunteer, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Once we have completed your selection and screening for this role, we will provide you with an induction, as well as invite you to any necessary training sessions. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.
As a Community Volunteer there is a wide range of impacts that you could have. You could contribute to raising first aid awareness in your community. You may also be involved in fundraising activity to support the work of St John. Delivering presentations to local groups and organisations, as well as finding opportunities to expand the reach of St John. You could also impact St John people by contributing to creating a welcoming and supportive environment. Expected time commitment At least 24 hours per year. What you could be involved in (responsibilities) Sharing St John, educating community groups about the work of St John Organising or supporting fundraising activity Sharing a skill, providing first aid awareness to community groups in your local network Supporting St John, helping with the hospitality, administration and wellbeing of other volunteers Representing St John Ambulance positively and in line with our HEART values. You will need to have the following (personal specification) An interest in supporting your local community through education and meaningful engagement Able to confidently present information and engage with diverse groups Able to work collaboratively alongside a diverse group of volunteers.
Interviews to be carried out from February to December 2026.
Mandatory training: Induction programme introducing you to the charity Essential training including safeguarding, health & safety and GDPR Training specifically for the activities you choose to undertake Out of pocket expenses. SJA will provide uniform in this role
Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2026
To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join us at Shaw Trust as a Volunteer Retail Assistant and help us raise vital funds to support communities across the UK. As a not-for-profit charity, all our proceeds go to helping people around the UK.
Whether you prefer to volunteer behind the scenes or to engage with customers, there’s plenty for you to get involved with.
We believe that everyone has something to offer, even if you have no retail experience. We’ll give you all the training and support you need to make you feel comfortable and confident here.
Key Tasks
Every day is different in our shop – that’s part of the fun!
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Sorting donations, including steaming and pricing them
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Serving customers at the till and helping donors/supporters
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Create stylish window displays
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Keeping the shop fully stocked and tidy
What’s in it for you
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Improve your skills and boost your CV
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Grow your confidence and meet new people
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Receive some lunch and travel expenses
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Flexibility around your health, education, family, work or other commitments
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You’ll be staying social and active
What we’re asking for
-
We typically ask for around 4 hours a week but we can be flexible
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That you’re helpful and happy to be part of a team
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Volunteers in our shop must be aged 14 or older
Volunteering is a great way to make a real difference and build your skills. If you have any questions, just ask!
Tempted? Click Apply now and we'll get back to you soon!
Join Shaw Trust
Shaw Trust is a national charity which helps people to achieve their potential, find meaningful employment, and boost their wellbeing.
From Glasgow to Glastonbury, our 32 shops raise over £1,000,000 annually to help us support 300,000 people.
We know everyone has something to offer. With over 350 volunteers in our shops, you can be part of a committed and caring team, giving time to improve communities across the UK.
Shaw Trust Registered Charity No. England & Wales: 287785. Scotland: SC039856.
Shaw Trust is a leading employment charity. Each year we support hundreds of thousands of people to achieve their full potential.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Children’s and Young People’s Activities Volunteer
Help young carers enjoy safe, fun, worry-free breaks from their caring role.
You support children and young people aged 5 to 25 during trips, club sessions, workshops, and holiday activities. You help them meet others, grow in confidence, and enjoy time for themselves. The role involves travel across Solihull so you can attend events and activities when needed.
Your tasks
• Support the Lead Sessional Worker during planned activities and outings
• Help create a safe, welcoming, inclusive space
• Encourage young carers to join in and feel confident
• Follow safeguarding, risk, and safety guidance
• Attend team check-ins and required training
What you bring
• Experience with children or young people
• Calm, adaptable approach
• Confidence working in busy group settings
• Good communication and teamwork
• Flexible availability for evenings and school holidays
What you gain
• Meaningful impact on young carers
• Training and skill development
• Experience in youth support and group work
• A place in a friendly, supportive volunteer team
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Support the work of St John Ambulance in your community by volunteering as a Community Volunteer, an exciting new role which is designed to revamp how volunteering looks in the modern world; flexible, innovative and is open for all.
We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient. Community Volunteers can choose from a wide selection of activities – including fundraising, talks and demonstrations, supporting at events, volunteer welfare, social media and administration support.
Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives.
Give as much (or little) time as you can afford. With this new role, you simply volunteer when it works for you. That means you can give as much time as you like or as little as 24 hours across a whole year, whenever it suits you. It’s perfect for busy lives, changing schedules, or for anyone seeking a low-commitment involvement.
The Community Volunteer provides an easy way to stay connected and contribute meaningfully to your local community. Here are some examples of what you could do:
- Community fundraising
- Talks and demonstrations
- Support at events
- Volunteer welfare
- Community Roadshows
- Supporting national campaigns
- Counting and banking money
- Booking events
- Supporting Networks
- Administration support
- Writing thank you and community letters
- Media and social media
- Community news and Network newsletters
Through volunteering as a Community Volunteer, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.
Once we have completed your selection and screening for this role, we will provide you with an induction, as well as invite you to any necessary training sessions. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.
We’re looking for Community Volunteers to help strengthen our local Network through fundraising and community engagement. This role is all about connection—supporting local events, building relationships, and helping raise vital funds that enable our volunteers and young people to thrive. By giving a little time, you’ll make a big difference: boosting visibility, supporting lifesaving work, and helping our Network grow stronger in the heart of the community. It’s flexible, rewarding, and a brilliant way to support a cause that truly matters. Get involved. Support locally. Make an impact.
Interviews & Inductions to be arranged based on candidates availability and intake.
All training provided by SJA.
Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2026
To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE)
CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings
About CARAS:
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.
Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.
We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.
Our values are at the centre of all our work:
• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests.
• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society.
• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes.
• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do.
About Youth ESOL:
Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.
About the Role:
CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.
The reading group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the reading group sessions are as follows:
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Monday afternoons 2pm to 3pm
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Wednesday mornings 11am to 1pm.
Volunteers are required to attend either one of both sessions. Volunteers are also welcome to stay and support the more traditional English language classes either before the reading session on Mondays or after the reading session on Wednesdays.
Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.
The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.
The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.
Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.
Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.
Volunteer tasks and responsibilities:
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Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions;
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Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;
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Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;
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Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;
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Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;
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Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project;
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Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;
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Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;
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Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom;
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Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements:
Essential
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To be 18 years or older;
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An interest in education and English language teaching;
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Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status
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* Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.
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Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role
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Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed);
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To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds;
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To be reliable and punctual;
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Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;
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An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry
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The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months;
Desirable:
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Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish;
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Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics.
Through volunteering with us you will:
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Gain experience of English language teaching;
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Meet new members of your local community;
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Learn about different cultures;
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Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum;
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Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;
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Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English;
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Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training.
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Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering.
We provide firm foundations for new-arrival asylum seekers to build happy and successful lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
As branch chair you and your branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.
What you will be doing
- Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising activities so that potential beneficiaries, volunteers and supporters are aware of SSAFA as first in mind for support.
- Building relationships with the regional and national SSAFA team, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA serving community teams, local military establishments, etc.
- Attending events as a key SSAFA representative.
- Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s central office
- Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
- Working with other volunteers, regional and national team members to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
- Work closely with the community engagement co-ordinator to recruit, welcome, induct, support, and manage volunteers in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
The skills you need
- Motivating leadership with an ability lead a team of volunteers.
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area.
- Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community.
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
- Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.
Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.
What you will be doing
- Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
- Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
- Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
- Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
- Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Great written and verbal communication skills
- Non-judgemental
- Reliable
- Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
- Access a range of training and learning opportunities
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.