Social work volunteer roles

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a small, friendly charity based in Southwark, providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills.

We’re currently looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Drama Class Volunteer to support our weekly Friday afternoon sessions (1.30-3.30), held at St Faith’s Community Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations). This position would begin in September 2026.

About The Role

We're looking for someone with a background in drama to support our tutor in delivering accessible and fun drama sessions for a small group of adults with learning disabilities. Each year, the group works towards a production which is performed at our end-of-year Summer Show, making this a fun, creative, and rewarding volunteering opportunity.

As a Drama Class Volunteer at Stepping Stones, you will:

• Encourage and support learners during rehearsals and performances
• Help with setting up props, costumes and resources for sessions
• Participate alongside learners where appropriate
• Offer 1:1 or group support where needed to help participants engage
• Help cultivate a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe to express themselves
• Offer creative input and feedback

What You’ll Gain

Volunteering with us is a chance to:

• Gain hands-on experience in drama facilitation and inclusive practice
• Contribute to a creative and meaningful community project
• Feel the joy of supporting learners to grow in confidence and express themselves
• Experience working with adults with learning disabilities in a supportive setting
• Develop skills in teamwork, adaptability, communication, and creative problem-solving
• Have a place in a welcoming and friendly team of tutors, staff and volunteers

What We’re Looking For

We're looking for someone with:

• A background or strong interest in drama, theatre, or performance
• Good communication and a warm, encouraging approach
• Enthusiasm, patience, and a willingness to get involved
• A non-judgemental and inclusive mindset
• Reliability and commitment, especially in the lead-up to the summer show

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to:

• Attend an in-person session with the Stepping Stones team and learners
• Provide two references
• Complete a DBS check (we will arrange this)
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we would like you to commit to volunteering with us for one year.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and respond to the following questions (these will come up when you hit 'Apply Now')

• Why would you like to volunteer with Stepping Stones?
• What are the strongest attributes and values you feel you'll bring to this role? 

We are looking for a Volunteer Market Stall Trader, to help sell produce made by our refugee chefs to customers at local markets. This role involves setting up and taking down the market stall, engaging with potential customers, explaining our products, addressing inquiries, and actively promoting sales. You will gain valuable experience in sales and customer service.

What will you be doing?

• Market Stall Setup and Take Down: Assist in the set up and take down of the market stall, including arranging products, setting up signage, and ensuring the stall is presentable.
• Product Promotion/Sales Encouragement: Engage with potential customers, explaining our products, the refugees who made them and our story, answering questions and providing recommendations as needed.
• Sales Transactions: Handle sales transactions efficiently and accurately including Zettle for cards and also cash.

Desirables:

• Ability to perform tasks that may involve heavy lifting and physical labour, such as setting up and taking down the market stall
• Strong customer service skills with a friendly and approachable demeanour
• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team
• Willingness to learn about our charity and products and effectively communicate this to customers
• Basic numeracy skills required for processing sales transactions and handling money

 Volunteering Opportunity 

Day Centre Meet & Greet

What You’ll Do

As a Meet & Greet Volunteer, you’ll be a friendly first point of contact at our day centre, helping to create a safe, welcoming and well-supported environment for people living with dementia, their families, and visitors.

You will:

· Welcome clients, visitors, and family members as they arrive

· Help maintain a safe environment by being present and aware of who is entering and leaving the centre

· Gently support clients to remain within safe areas if needed

· Provide information, leaflets, or signposting to visitors

· Work alongside staff to ensure the day runs smoothly

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

· Friendly and confident communication

· Awareness, observation, and promoting a safe environment

· Patience, empathy, and understanding of dementia

· Teamwork and following guidance from staff

Time Commitment

4 hours between 9:30 am and 4:00 pm
(Weekdays)

Location: The Mabel Churn Centre, 55b Sunny Road, Enfield, EN3 5EF

Reports to: Day Centre Manager

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!

Online Sales Volunteer (Vinted & eBay)

Help turn donated treasures into vital funds for our charity!

We are looking for an enthusiastic and trustworthy volunteer to support our online sales through Vinted and eBay. If you enjoy spotting valuable items, researching prices, taking photos or have an interest in online selling, this could be a rewarding role for you.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll help us raise extra funds by preparing and listing donated items for sale online.

Tasks may include:

• Identifying suitable donated items for online sale
• Preparing and presenting items for listing
• Taking clear, appealing photographs
• Researching pricing and helping value items
• Creating listings on Vinted and eBay
• Monitoring and assisting with online sales activity
• Packing sold items ready for posting
• Taking parcels to local drop-off points
• Helping maximise income from donated goods

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is trustworthy, reliable and enthusiastic
• Has good attention to detail
• Is comfortable using online platforms or willing to learn
• Enjoys researching and practical tasks
• Has an interest in online selling and fundraising
• Can work independently and use initiative
• Has experience with Vinted, eBay or similar selling platforms (beneficial, but not essential)

Time commitment

• Shifts are usually 10am–1pm or 1pm–4pm

Regular weekly volunteering preferred, with some flexibility available.

Sorting Room Volunteer

Do you enjoy organising, spotting quality items and bringing order to chaos? Join our behind-the-scenes sorting team!

We are looking for volunteers to help process donated items and prepare quality stock for our charity shop. This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys sorting, organising and has a good eye for detail.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll play an important role in helping donated items reach the shop floor ready for sale.

Tasks may include:

• Sorting through donated clothing, books, toys and household items
• Checking quality and carrying out quality control
• Identifying valuable or desirable brands
• Pricing items ready for sale
• Organising stock in the sorting room
• Preparing donations for the shop floor
• Helping keep the sorting area tidy and efficient

We’re looking for someone who:

• Enjoys organising and practical tasks
• Has good attention to detail
• Has an eye for quality and presentation
• Has brand awareness (desirable, but not essential)
• Is reliable and able to work independently
• Enjoys being part of a friendly team

Time commitment

• Shifts are usually 10am–1pm or 1pm–4pm
• Regular weekly volunteering preferred, with some flexibility available

This is an exciting and strategic moment to join the Board of The Leprosy Mission Shop (TLMS). We are fortunate to have a dedicated and experienced group of Directors, but with members nearing the end of their tenures, we are looking to appoint two new Directors during 2026.

The Leprosy Mission is the world’s largest leprosy-focused organisation, a pioneer in our field, with over 152 years’ experience tackling this ancient disease. As a leading international Christian development organisation, we operate as a Global Fellowship comprising members from 27 countries. We work with people of all faiths and none to bring about the defeat of leprosy and transformation in the lives of people affected. We raise funds, promote research and innovation, and support our partners to strengthen health systems, provide life changing health care services, skills training and opportunities for those who have been excluded and rejected by society.

As an organisation we are seeking transformational growth. Our goal is to see a leprosy-free world. Our vision is for ‘leprosy defeated, lives transformed’, meaning a world with zero transmission, zero disability and zero discrimination.

The Leprosy Mission Shop UK exists to transform the lives of people affected by leprosy by raising vital funds and awareness through ethical retail. Directors play a vital role in leading the organisation and supporting a values-driven team that uses commerce as a tool for positive change, ensuring that every purchase contributes to lasting impact.

You will provide strategic oversight, constructive challenge, and guidance to support the effective governance and long-term sustainability of The Leprosy Mission Shop UK. You will have a good understanding of finance with the ability to interpret budgets, management accounts, and performance reports.

Experience in one or more of these areas is desirable:

• market research
• direct marketing
• digital marketing
• e-commerce
• product development and selection
• legal

We seek candidates who have time availability to attend a mix of on-site (Peterborough) and online Board meetings (total of four meetings per year) and undertake some work from home for preparation, review of papers, and virtual discussions.

The Leprosy Mission Shop has a zero-tolerance policy towards any abuse, neglect and exploitation of all people. Successful candidates are expected to understand, sign and comply with all organisational policies, including our code of conduct and safeguarding policies. Recruitment to roles within The Leprosy Mission Shop includes, in particular, criminal record checks/screening and the collection of relevant references.

As an explicitly Christian charity, The Leprosy Mission Shop is seeking candidates who are committed Christians, willing to uphold and contribute to the organisation’s Christian ethos. This includes engaging in and at times leading prayer within the organisation, demonstrating alignment with our values, and showing active involvement in their Christian community. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. *In accordance with the equality act 2010 it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.

To apply, please visit our careers page.

Closing date: Monday 7 September 2026.

Registered Charity number 1076556.

Volunteering Opportunity

Flyer Distributor

What You’ll Do

Help promote Age UK Enfield services and events by distributing flyers and posters in local community spaces. You’ll raise awareness and act as a friendly face for the organisation in your local area.

You will:

· Distribute flyers and materials to homes, libraries, shops, cafes, community centres and GP surgeries

· Engage with the public in a polite, friendly way

· Answer basic questions about Age UK Enfield

· Keep a simple log of where you’ve delivered materials and how many

· Report back to your supervisor with any feedback or updates

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

· Confidence working independently

· Good communication skills

· Willingness to walk and stand for periods of time

· Professional and approachable attitude

· Reliable and well organised

Time Commitment

2–4 hours between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm
(Flexible days)

Location: Various locations across the London Borough of Enfield
Reports to: Communications, Marketing & Volunteer Manager

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!

Volunteers are needed to assist in the sorting and pricing of goods donated to our charity shop. As well as keeping the shop tidy, rotating stock on a regular basis and serving our clients who use the shop.

There are a variety of activities available, and where we can, we will try to tailor the opportunity around you. We are open Monday to Saturday (9am - 5pm) with various times available to volunteer.

About the Role

Helping people in crisis begins at your local charity shop!

Here at the Women & Families Resource Centre, our team is bright and bubbly, and we love meeting people from all walks of life.

We want to make sure everyone that visits us has a great experience, and we never forget the contribution our little shop makes to helping those in crisis.

You will work closely with the Shop Manager, shop staff and volunteers, acting as the first point of contact for the shop in relation to matters of stock generation, stock transfer, collection and disposal.

OPERATIONAL TASKS

Typical tasks may include:

Receiving donations, registering and storing them safely.

Lifting, moving and sorting items according to guidelines.

Identifying items suitable for sale and recycling.

Checking item quality.

Active promotion of the charity and what we do.

Preparing items for distribution to our service users.

Whether you’re a jobseeker interested in a career in construction or woodwork, a student or recent college graduate seeking experience, or just someone with spare time on your hands, wanting to do something positive and meet new people, volunteering with the Touch Wood project at EMERGE 3Rs may be just the ticket!

Touch Wood is a wood recycling and upcycling initiative, which collects surplus and waste wood and timber and gives it a new lease of life, preventing it from being burned, chipped, or dumped in landfill.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

* Preparing wood for resale

* Assisting with the construction of wooden products, from small household items to pieces of furniture

Our Touch Wood volunteers are able to gain skills in practical woodworking, as we offer hands-on experience of working with reclaimed timber; from making basic lumber products ready for resale, through to assisting with the creation of bespoke items, such as kitchen equipment and home and garden furniture.

Full training in woodworking and health and safety is provided, along with Personal Protection Equipment.
Capped reimbursement of expenses is awarded for lunches and travel, where applicable.

The UK generates around 5 million tonnes of wood waste every year, but less than 1% is reused. Touch Wood rescues waste timber that would otherwise be landfilled or turned into woodchip; creating jobs and training opportunities for disadvantaged local people at the same time. We collect from construction sites, industrial estates and other commercial sources, reclaiming everything from pallets to indoor cycle tracks – you name it, we take it! Anything we can’t reuse is locally recycled, so nothing goes to waste. This reduces the carbon emissions associated with disposing of waste wood, offers cost savings for DIY enthusiasts, and provides training and job potential to volunteers in the workshop. Some of the timber we work with comes from high profile sources, including the entire track of the Manchester Velodrome cycling centre and wood removed in the recent refurbishment of Manchester’s historic Town Hall!

Our skilled team of staff and volunteers often use reclaimed timber to create beautiful and practical products, such as home and garden furniture. We regularly create bespoke pieces to order; some of it for famous clients like Olympic cycling champions Jason and Laura Kenny, for whom we made a table from the Manchester Velodrome track.

Please be advised that our volunteers require a fair level of physical fitness and manual dexterity as the role is entirely practical.

Our Touch Wood workshop and wood store is open Mon-Fri, 8.30am - 4pm.
We occupy a unit at Maynard House, inside New Smithfield Market, in Openshaw, North Manchester, which is accessed from the main entrance on Whitworth Street East (off Ashton Old Road). The site is served well by buses, and we have free parking onsite, as well as secure storage racks for pushbikes.

​IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us. There are no exceptions to this rule. This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles. We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.

Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)