Social work 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.

On the first Monday of each month we hold hybrid Network meetings (available to watch afterwards). We also have weekly Monday and fortnightly Thursday meetings.

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 will be running a number of information events locally and these are: Date, Times and Location to be advised

 We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on: Date, Times and Location to be advised

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates: Welcome Event (Induction) - Date, Times and Location to be advised. Training for role - Date, Times and Location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 05/10/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Come and make a difference to some young people who really need your input.

Go Beyond are a national UK charity giving children who have been bereaved, abused or bullied, who are living in poverty or caring for loved ones the chance to escape their worries and pressures through free breaks in the countryside. We need volunteers to help us deliver fun, creative and adventurous activities throughout the year.

Go Beyond’s centres in Essex, the Cornish coastline, and on the edge of the Peak District are where vulnerable young people facing various challenges in their life come for a week of freedom and fun. Running Monday-Friday throughout the year, our breaks give children and young people the chance for time away from the worries of their everyday life, to make friends, try new things, build confidence, and ultimately go home inspired by what the world can offer them and what they, in turn, can offer the world.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

As a breaks volunteer, you will be part of a team, including trained Break Leaders, and will support by being an extra pair of eyes and ears, and a helping hand where needed. You will spend time with the young people attending Go Beyond and help ensure they have a positive week full of experiences and memories that will last a lifetime!

Full training and support will be given throughout. We have a wide variety of volunteer roles available and key responsibilities can include:

• Helping the Break Leaders with day-to-day tasks, such as setting up activities and keeping the centre tidy
• Assisting at mealtimes with preparing, serving, and cleaning
• Leading planned activities based on your skills with support from Break Leaders (such as baking, sports games, gardening, arts and crafts etc.)
• Capturing photos of special moments for the young people (using Go Beyond cameras only)
• Accompanying our driver to collect or drop off groups and supervise behaviour on the buses
• To be a positive role model and lead by example at all times
• To be encouraging and supportive to the young people and take an interest in each child
• To take part in the activities alongside the young people
• To be aware of boundaries and know when it is important to enforce these
• To inform the Break Leaders of any issues or concerns you have relating to the young people or the break experience
• To contribute to personalised messages which the young people receive in their goody bags as a lasting memory of their Go Beyond break
• To read, sign and ensure Safeguarding and Health and Safety Policies and Reporting Procedures are followed, and contribute to Go Beyond Hazard Analysis Critical Control Principles, Risk Assessment and Quality Assurance processes.

Qualities & Skills

• Enthusiasm and a willingness to help
• Good communication skills and a positive, friendly attitude
• Non-judgemental and approachable
• Experience of working with young people
• Willingness to work flexibly, adapting tasks to suit the needs of the group
• Ability to work well as part of a team in a busy, fast-paced environment

What you can gain from volunteering with Go Beyond

• Gain new skills and experience in a professional environment
• Training and personal development opportunities
• Join an enthusiastic team of people who want to make a difference, just like you
• We will happily provide a reference for volunteers who complete training and reach the agreed number of volunteer hours
• Have a rewarding experience making a difference to children living in desperately difficult circumstances across the UK

Time commitment

A break will run Monday to Friday, various weeks throughout the year

Application process

• Complete the application form online 
• Two successful references will be required
• A successful DBS check would need to be completed (we pay, but you will need to prove your ID at the Post Office, which costs £12)
• A 30 minute online induction session
• Discussion of which break, where and when.

Aim of this role
Research and Campaigns volunteers support our work to change the policies and practice that affect the lives of our clients.

As an R&C volunteer, you will be a part of the R&C team. You will:

• complete an induction to Citizens Advice and training for your role

• keep up-to-date with trends of the concerns affecting clients locally as well as areas identified by national Citizens Advice, and raise call for evidence

• research and gather quality information on key issues affecting local residents

• ensure all volunteers/staff are aware of the purpose of Research and Campaigns and how to write evidence forms

• produce useful, appealing and easily accessible campaign materials and publications for information purposes

• feed back to assessors and advisers on the results of their work and provide them with assistance in completing evidence forms

• help national Citizens Advice to carry out research about how certain issues affect clients in your local area

• gather case studies and client stories

• ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion are promoted in our R&C work

• adhere to Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth’s (CAML) aims and principles

• comply with all relevant GDPR rules and regulations

Locations

This role is based in our Mitcham office with some occasional traveling to our other offices in Morden and Kennington. All three offices are well-connected to public transport, and the office in Mitcham has a car park.

We will reimburse all reasonable out of pocket travel and lunch expenses.

What’s in it for you?

• make a real difference to people’s lives

• build on valuable skills such as communication, listening and problem solving, and increase your employability

• work with a range of different people, independently and in a team

• have a positive impact in your community

• be part of a friendly and supportive charity team

• develop transferable skills for employment, training or other volunteering opportunities

• have an opportunity to progress with your training and develop knowledge and skills for other roles

What we are looking for

• excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential

• understanding of the importance of Research and Campaigns work in identifying key current social issues, and their potential impact on clients

• the ability to build and maintain professional relationships and contribute constructively as part of the R&C team, as well as wider CAML team

• the ability to give feedback clearly and sensitively

• good report-writing skills with the ability to condense important information and explain to a range of audiences. Able to research, analyse and explain complex information

• good organisational and time management skills with the ability to work towards set deadlines

• ability to work on own initiative, within given guidelines

• confidence in using a range of IT software to research and analyse data

Satisfactory references are required before joining the charity.

Commitment
We are looking for volunteers who are able come to our office for at least one day per week. 

Valuing inclusion
Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from racially minoritised people/people of colour, disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBTQ+ and non-binary people.

If you are interested in becoming a research and campaigns volunteer and would like to discuss flexibility around location, time, ‘what you will do’ and how we can support you please contact us.

How to apply
Please visit our website to find out how to apply.

The closing date for Applications is 5pm on August 31st 2026.

Applications will be reviewed after the closing date.

We are registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office and will process your personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018. Please refer to our online Privacy Policy for more information on how your personal data will be processed and stored.

We are looking for a Communications Officer who can strategically identify and post engaging content for our social media feeds and other communication channels, which will inspire people to support our work with refugees and asylum seekers in Epirus. You are the person who thinks “this would make a good post”, while activities are taking place. More than that, your interest and belief in digital communications as a force for good should be backed with an interest in data and analytics, using them to influence our overall communication strategy.

Your role would include:

• Interacting with our digital communities to increase engagement, followers and the quality of user experience.

• Identifying key influencers and conversations that we should engage in to better showcase our work and expand our reach.

• Managing our other channels of communication, including newsletters, donor engagement, website and press service.

You should be able to:

• Manage communication channels in a professional capacity

• Create and deliver communication strategies for specific programmes and campaigns

• Produce regular data reports using Facebook Insights, LinkedIn Analytics, Google Analytics or similar tools, analysing data and adapt strategies accordingly 

• Keep up-to-date with the latest trends/developments in digital communications

• Identify key influential external figures and agencies to further our reach and impact

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience working in a refugee context or with a vulnerable population

• Experience working in an NGO, Charity or in the field of human rights

What do we offer?

• A nurturing and collaborative working environment. We work hard to help our team members grow; investing in personal and professional development.

• Accommodation in a shared house

• Transportation to/from work

• After completion of a three-month trial, if you commit long-term, a small monthly expenses refund

In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the shared houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the shared houses are full, this would allow us to offer an opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

Have experience leading a team of this type?

Consider applying to become a Communications Coordinator. Whether your experience lies in the humanitarian sector or elsewhere, we are looking for people with expertise that can drive us forward as an organisation.

Looking for an internship?

If, because of your degree or for any other reason, you would like to have your period at Second Tree credited as an internship, just apply to the vacancy that you’re interested in and mention this. We have agreements with several universities across Europe, and in many other cases, these agreements can be developed on an ad hoc basis.

NOTE: If you require a visa to stay in Greece for the minimum ten-week commitment, please know that as a Greek NGO, we are unable to sponsor your visa.

Romani-Speaking Community Support Volunteer

Role Overview

Europia is looking for a Romani-speaking volunteer to support community sessions for the Salford Central and Eastern European Health Navigators Project.

The project supports Central and Eastern European residents in Salford who may face language, digital or other barriers when accessing health and community services.

The volunteer will help welcome people, provide Romani language support and help residents use digital services. They will work alongside Europia staff to make sessions welcoming and accessible.

What the Role Will Involve

• Interpret between Romani-speaking residents and Europia staff during community sessions.

• Help Romani-speaking residents communicate with Europia staff. 

• Clearly interpret information provided by Europia staff.

• Translate short written information, messages and instructions between Romani and English.

• Help check that translated information is clear and easy to understand.

• Welcome residents when they arrive at community sessions.

• Explain how the session works and who service users need to speak to.

• Help service users use mobile phones, websites, online forms and digital services.

• Help prepare the room before sessions and tidy the space afterwards.

• Support the general running of community sessions.

• Communicate information clearly, accurately and sensitively.

• Comply with Europia’s Data Protection Policy and keep personal and sensitive information private.

• Follow Europia’s safeguarding, data protection and professional boundaries procedures.

When

• Community sessions will run until March 2027.

• The project will normally hold one community session each week.

• Each session will last around three hours.

• Volunteers will support agreed sessions as part of a rota.

• The exact days, times and number of sessions will be agreed with each volunteer.

Where

The project will be delivered across Salford. Sessions will take place at community venues, including:

• Eccles Gateway, M30 0TU

• Broughton Hub, M7 4BQ

• Together Family Centre, M44 6GX

• St Aidan’s Church, M7 3SE

• Selected Salford libraries

Volunteers may support sessions at one or more venues, depending on their availability and the needs of the project.

Skills and Experience

We are looking for someone who:

• Speaks Romani and English.

• Is friendly, patient and respectful.

• Has good communication and listening skills.

• Is comfortable speaking with people from different backgrounds.

• Can use basic websites, online forms and mobile phones.

• Is willing to help people with simple digital tasks.

• Can keep personal information private.

• Is reliable and able to attend agreed sessions.

• Is willing to learn and work as part of a team.

Previous volunteering, community work, language support or digital support experience would be helpful, but it is not essential.

Training and Support

Volunteers will receive:

• An induction before starting.

• Safeguarding training.

• Training on professional boundaries.

• Clear guidance about their role and responsibilities.

• Structured supervision and support from Europia staff.

• A Disclosure and Barring Service check.

• Information about possible pathways towards Immigration Advice Authority Level 1 qualifications, where appropriate.

Benefits

• Use your Romani language skills to support local residents.

• Gain experience in community support.

• Develop your communication and digital support skills.

• Build confidence and meet new people.

• Learn more about local health and community services.

• Receive regular support and supervision.

• Support Central and Eastern European communities in Salford.

• Receive agreed volunteer expenses.

• Gain experience that may support future employment, training or volunteering opportunities.

No one should die because they needed first aid and didn’t get it. St John Ambulance teaches people first aid so they can be the difference between life and death, and you can help us do this.

We are seeking Event Paramedics to respond to and manage emergency calls/incidents whilst attending events. At all times provide specialist, clinical, social and holistic care to undertake clinical assessment and interventions those individuals in the pre-hospital environment, which may include stadia, concerts, motorsports, road races etc. This may encompass working on both ambulances / FRV’s and within treatment units as required.

Successful candidates will be registered Paramedics with the HCPC and be able to provide evidence of CPD activity within the previous 12 months.

Suffolk meets in Ipswich fortnightly on a Tuesday evening, Stowmarket on a Monday evening and Bury St Edmunds on a Wednesday evening.

The type of events Suffolk volunteers have historically supported are Suffolk Show, Aldeburgh Carnival, Newmarket Racecourse, Pumpkin Patch, University of Suffolk open days along with smaller events like village fetes and galas, 5k, 10k and half marathon running events, firework displays and remembrance events. Volunteers also have the opportunity to assist with National and State events in London such as the London Marathon.

The closing date for this role is: 15/09/2026

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons.

Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace

Join us in leading positive change!

About the position

The role provides you with flexibility and autonomy at work. Where necessary, specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Study design briefs and determine requirements.
• Schedule projects and define budget constraints.
• Conceptualize visuals based on requirements.
• Prepare rough drafts and present ideas.
• Develop illustrations, logos and other designs using software or by hand.
• Use the appropriate colours and layouts for each graphic.
• Work with copywriters and creative director to produce final design.
• Test graphics across various media.
• Amend designs after feedback.
• Ensure final graphics and layouts are visually appealing and on-brand.
• General tasks
• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• Proven graphic designing experience.
• A portfolio of illustrations or another graphics / CV
• Familiarity with design software and technologies (such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Adobe Suite)
• Flexibility and openness to work on a variety of tasks.
• Focused, organised and able to prioritise and execute tasks independently.
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• A keen eye for aesthetics and details
• Excellent communication skills
• Degree in Design, Fine Arts or related field is a plus.

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. Candidates must be over 18 to apply.

Volunteering in the shop

We've recently reopened our Islington Shop with a gorgeous new look inspired by the neighbouring film studios. In amongst the retro cinema seats and beautiful backstage velvet curtains you'll find unique vintage treasures and lovingly curated donated stock, hand picked by our brilliant volunteer team.

Our Islington Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children. 

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related). 

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button. 

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. Candidates must be over 18 to apply.

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun
2. It's flexible
3. You'll learn and share skills
4. You'll be making a difference
5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. Candidates must be over 16.

Volunteering in the shop

Mary's Living & Giving for Save the Children is unique - a vibrant result of the generous gifts of local individuals and companies being turned around by the skills and passions of volunteer teams, to create a destination retail experience. Selling womenswear, menswear, shoes, and bags to household goods, our shops can be found in the London villages and bring in vital funds for Save the Children.

Our Edinburgh Stockbridge Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick. 

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children.

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related).  

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.Candidates must be over 16.

We're growing our volunteering team and looking to recruit a second Lead Volunteer for our Communications & Marketing Team (and 2 Lead Volunteers specifically for Content.) The successful person will have the overall responsibility for the Charity’s communications and marketing. We’re looking for someone who has a passion for promoting a charity supporting a rare condition and can support and lead a volunteering team as well as plan and use communication tools such as websites, social media, Canva and other digital platforms.

This is a flexible volunteering opportunity, which means your commitment can be balanced around your lifestyle - being part of a team to ensure that communications to our community and supporters are up to date and timely.

You will provide leadership for your team and support the development of a communications plan for the charity.

Key Tasks and Objectives

● Lead a team of communications and marketing volunteers.

● Lead and co-ordinate internal projects, activities and campaigns that help build awareness of our organisation and its aims.

● Run the meetings for the Communications & Marketing Team on a monthly basis.

● Regularly meet with and be the point of contact for the lead volunteers for Content, Social Media and Email Marketing to co-ordinate and plan.

● Where and if possible, to also be an active part of the Communications & Marketing Team either as a content writer, copywriter or another role.

● Identifying, initiating and leading on projects which align to the strategy and realise our goals.

● Collaborate with the team.

● To support the charity in developing a visual form of our Annual Report or other reporting documents such as grant reports.

● Support the development and implementation of the Communications Strategy.

● Protecting our charity brand identity, ensuring it is delivered consistently, both internally and externally.

● Promote the charity across all our channels and forms of communication.

● Ensure effective, regular communication to both internal and external audiences.

● Review progress and effectiveness of the Communications Strategy on an annual basis.

What are we looking for?

About You

To be successful in this role you will:

● Have a real enthusiasm for excellence, innovation, continuous improvement and change.

● Be a team leader who is positive, hands-on and able to get the best out of a team.

● Have excellent interpersonal skills and be adept at building relationships with different stakeholders.

● Have the ability to think strategically but also enjoy being at an operational level to support your team and key stakeholders.

● Have a high level of attention to detail.

● Have the ability to prioritise, plan and organise projects and to manage expectations.

Experience and Skills

● The ability to communicate (verbal and non-verbal) to a wide variety of audiences including the public, various forms of media and on an individual basis.

● Experience in building and leading a team.

● Previous experience of working for charities and/or volunteer organisations is desirable but not required.

● Creativity regarding message management and medium.

● Good IT skills.

● Ability to motivate and enthuse others.

● To be a part of a team.

● Previous experience in marketing, communications, or related fields.

● Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and inspire volunteers.

● Experience of using Canva or similar design packages.

● A strong network of PR and media contacts would be highly advantageous.

What's in it for you?

This role is a fantastic opportunity to volunteer with a small but ambitious charity, developing and honing your skills around leadership in the Third Sector.

Getting the right story in print and online can be challenging, especially when dealing with a rare health condition, but it is definitely rewarding.

You will gain experience in the charity sector, gain new or update your writing skills, a broader C.V., and a sense of accomplishment from using your skills to help people affected by a very painful condition.

You would be leading our small, friendly, forward-thinking charity team, focused on reaching people who may not have heard about the charity or about the condition. You would also have a key role in developing a communications and marketing strategy for a small charity. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference to a rare condition.

Key Benefits

● Gain valuable experience in communications and marketing, plus charity team leadership.

● Make a meaningful impact on the fight to support the CRPS community.

● Develop professional skills and expand your network.

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. 

Please note that volunteers must be over 16 years of age.

Volunteering in the shop

Our Totnes Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children. 

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related). 

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button. 

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. 

Learn to Love to Read offers one-to-one support to children who find learning to read challenging, in schools and online via Zoom.Our In-school volunteers are asked to commit 90 minutes, one afternoon a week, usually between 1-3 pm.
Our virtual volunteers are asked to commit 30-60 minutes, one afternoon a week, usually between 4-6 pm.

Full training and ongoing support is provided for all volunteers to provide them with a framework which supports children's reading skills, while also building their self-esteem, confidence and love of reading. Our volunteers support the same children each week, providing 20 minutes of one-to-one support for the whole academic year. This ensures a consistent and rewarding experience for both the volunteer and the children.

In Wandsworth, post-COVID, 20% of Key Stage 1 and 25% of Key Stage 2 children did not reach the expected standard of reading in summer 2025. Low literacy is linked to poverty and social exclusion, limiting options in life. Early literacy intervention is crucial to break this cycle. School closures due to COVID-19 have been tough for children from disadvantaged families.
 

Please note we only work with schools in the London borough of Wandsworth and all our volunteers need to live in or within easy reach of that borough. 

In line with Safer Recruitment, all applicants are asked to complete an application form, provide references, take part in a face-to-face interview and ID check, and attend online training which includes safeguarding. All volunteers must have an enhanced DBS check which we arrange on your behalf. You will also be required to obtain checks from any country in which you've lived for more than three months from the age of 16 in line with Wandsworth's guidance. Once you have registered, we’ll send you a link to the application form.

Learn to Love to Read is committed to working without bias and offering equal opportunities for our volunteers. We are committed to valuing diversity and working inclusively across all our activities. Our aim is that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Support the delivery of creative arts and crafts activities that encourage young people to express themselves, develop new skills, and build confidence. Volunteers will help facilitate activities such as painting, drawing, sculpture, crafts, and themed creative projects while creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. You will encourage participation, celebrate creativity, and help young people explore their ideas in a fun and supportive space.

Inspire creativity and self-expression in young people Build confidence through creative achievement and skill development Encourage positive social interaction and teamwork Provide a safe space for young people to explore their interests and talents

The skills you'll need

• Enthusiasm for arts, crafts, and creativity
• Good communication and listening skills
• Patience and encouragement when supporting young people
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Positive and inclusive attitude
• Willingness to undertake safeguarding training

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Public car parking is available locally. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Join us as a Trustee and contribute to our campaigning journey to help make the food system healthier and fairer. Be part of the creative, agile and growing team behind Bite Back’s exceptional teenage activists from England and Scotland. Work with a vibrant, dynamic and youth-led organisation that is committed to advancing child rights and creating healthy futures for children across the UK and abroad by improving our global, national, and local food systems.

Trustee Role & Responsibilities

As a Trustee, you will share collective statutory responsibility duties for the governance and strategic direction of Bite Back:

● Strategic Oversight: Ensure Bite Back pursues its charitable objectives by approving and monitoring our long-term strategy and organisational goals

● Compliance & Governance: Ensure that compliance with governing documents, charity law, company law, safeguarding standards, and all relevant statutory regulations in England & Wales, and Scotland.

● Financial Stewardship: Protect and manage the charity’s assets, ensuring financial stability, proper investment, and exclusive application of funds toward our charitable mission.

● Risk & Performance Management: Evaluate performance against agreed strategy, monitor organisational risks, and ensure proper internal controls and policies are in place.

● CEO Support & Governance: Provide support, constructive challenge, and oversight to the Chief Executive Officer.

In addition to statutory duties, Trustees act as critical friends and champions for Bite Back. You will draw on your professional skills, networks, and lived experience to advise the Board and Senior Leadership Team, scrutinise board papers, and support key strategic initiatives.

Person specification

Following a recent governance review and skills audit, we are seeking up to three new Trustees to join our Board during an exciting phase of expansion across the UK. Candidates should bring deep expertise in at least one of the following core priority areas:

1. Scottish Youth Charity & Governance Expertise: Senior leadership experience from across Scotland’s charity sector (ideally, but not necessarily, within the children and young people’s sector), with strong professional networks across Scottish government, civil society, and funders to help guide our growing footprint and programmes as a registered Scottish charity (SC055240). In addition to strong Scottish safeguarding and child protection experience, and Scottish charity governance knowledge.

2. Youth Voice / Education Charity Leadership Expertise: Senior leadership experience within the youth sector (youth voice / development / advocacy) or education sector working with young people, or experience scaling high impact social ventures that improve lives of young people, or movement building, or philanthropic and donor networks to support income generation, organisational growth, and governance trajectory. In addition to strong child safeguarding experience.

3. Political Strategy & Campaign Expertise: Expertise in building high-impact strategic campaigns to influence policy, with strong PR/media/political professional networks to support Bite Back’s young campaigners’ efforts to hold Big Food accountable via fresh, innovative, and digital-forward ways.

Core Qualities Required for All Trustees

● A deep commitment to Bite Back’s mission, values, and youth-led ethos, alongside the strategic vision to help steer a dynamic, growing national movement

● Good, independent judgement and thinking, and the willingness to speak your mind candidly while constructively challenging executive leadership

● A clear understanding and acceptance of the statutory duties, responsibilities, and legal liabilities of trusteeship under charity and company law

● An ability to think creatively, embrace fresh perspectives, and navigate complex policy public health, and campaigning landscapes

● An ability to work effectively as an active member of a team, building strong, supportive relationships with fellow Trustees, Youth Activists, and executive leadership

● An openness to leveraging personal and professional networks to support elevating the voices of Bite Back’s young people and their campaigns.

● A genuine willingness to devote the necessary time, energy, and effort to prepare for board meetings, advise on sub-committees, and champion the organisation externally

● A steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging alongside full alignment with Nolan’s Seven Principles of Public Life (Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty, and Leadership)

Time Commitment & Location

● Board meetings: 4 meetings per year (held virtually or in London, with hybrid access)

● Sub-Committees: Participation in one Board sub-committee where relevant

● Ad-Hoc Support: Occasional strategic guidance, reading time, and attendance at key Bite Back events or youth showcases

Our Organisation & Governance

Bite Back is a registered charity in England & Wales (1180969) and Scotland (SC055240). Bite Back is led by young people - not consulted as an afterthought, but led. Over 70+ core youth activists who sit on our Youth Board directly shape our strategy, campaigns, and communications, supported by thousands of young people engaged across our UK networks.

Our staff team of about 30 people works in partnership with our Youth Board, using their professional networks and expertise to create platforms for young leaders to drive systemic change.

Bite Back is overseen by a dedicated Board of Trustees, led by Chair Dr. Dolly van Tulleken.

The Board is responsible for ensuring the charity fulfills its mission, remains strictly youth-led, and maintains robust financial and operational governance. Our Board currently includes experienced professionals across health, education, finance, campaigns, and youth engagement, alongside Youth Trustees who bring essential lived experience to our governance. Our Board has a Finance Sub-Committee to support specifically with the long-term financial sustainability of the charity.

Everything we do is guided by the core values developed by our Youth Board: Fresh, Resilient, Energetic, Real, and Respectful.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEI-B)

As part of our commitment to making meaningful progress towards a movement where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered, Bite Back’s DEIB vision statement has been co-developed by Bite Back’s young people, staff and trustees:

A fair food system means our working culture and values - Real, Respectful, Resilient, Fresh and Energetic - reflects this vision. We support our staf , ambassadors and trustees to live Bite Back’s values in their work.

At Bite Back, DEIB means that our people are able to join and navigate the workplace, trusting they’ll be supported to thrive, and that we’ll respond with compassion and make change when things fall short. We recognise the systems of oppression which keep marginalised groups from power, and seek to proactively build equity. We are intentional about representation. We actively recruit under-represented voices, ensuring our staf team and youth board are representative of a wide variety of lived experiences.

We push to improve outcomes for those kept furthest from power, celebrate differences and ensure accessibility is built in, not added on. Our aspiration and intention is that Bite Back is an organisation that recognises, shares and acts on its power and responsibility to young people, employees, community and wider society, driving equity and inclusion in every space, and in every decision.

You can read more about how we approach DEI-B on our website.

We are intentional about representation and equity:

● Youth-Led Representation: We ensure our core movement including over 70+ Youth Activists and thousands of young campaigners across England and Scotland reflects the rich diversity of young people most impacted by food insecurity and junk food marketing.

● Proactive Inclusion: We actively recruit under-represented voices to our staff team and Board of Trustees, celebrating difference and embedding accessibility into everything we do by design.

● Continuous Improvement: We continually review and embed inclusive practices across our recruitment, organisational culture, campaign priorities, and board governance.