Support volunteer roles

We are seeking reliable and responsible Volunteer Drivers to support the transportation of food and products to markets, events, and private catering locations across London. This role is vital in ensuring goods are delivered safely, on time, and in excellent condition.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collect food and product items from designated pick-up points
• Transport goods to markets, events, and catering venues
• Load and unload items safely
• Plan efficient delivery routes
• Maintain communication with the team
• Ensure vehicle cleanliness
• Follow road safety regulations

Requirements:

• Valid UK driving licence
• Access to a reliable vehicle
• Good knowledge of London roads or GPS use
• Ability to lift moderate loads
• Reliable and organised

Desirable:

• Delivery or logistics experience
• Food hygiene awareness

What You’ll Gain:

• Support community initiatives
• Flexible schedule
• Logistics experience
• Mileage reimbursement at £0.45 per mile

Additional Information:

Flexible shifts including weekdays, evenings, and weekends.

Would you like to help blind and partially sighted people in your community? Do you enjoy driving and meeting new people and live in the Edinburgh and Lothian area? If so, we want you to come and join us as a Volunteer Driver.

Our volunteers provide a friendly face and that personal touch to brighten the days for the people they drive. Our drivers can become a regular part of someone’s life and for some their journeys together may be the only chance an RNIB customer has had to get out of their home for some time.

If you are friendly, courteous and reliable then this is the opportunity for you.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• This role requires membership of the PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) Scheme (Children and Adults) and 2 references.

Location

Region

• Scotland

Additional location information

• Edinburgh & Lothian

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• Reliable and punctual
• Willingness to work independently

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to get involved in an impactful charity making a tangible difference to the lives of refugees here in the UK.

Our work is simple – we refurbish unwanted bikes and donate them to refugees and people seeking asylum, many living on less than £7 a day, giving them freedom and independence whilst they rebuild their lives.

A bike makes a huge difference – not only is it a practical tool for tackling poverty, those who receive bikes from us report they are more connected in their community, happier and healthier as a result:

• 91% of people use their bikes weekly for essential journeys

• 84% of people are better able to access legal and other vital support services 

• 93% report better physical and/or mental health

Alongside our core Bike Donations Programme, we support refugee women to learn to cycle through our Pedal Power Programme; provide ongoing support with bike maintenance through our Repair or Replace Programme; and offer the opportunity for connection and friendship through our volunteer-matching Bike Buddy Programme.

“The Bike Project has given me so much more than just a bicycle — it has given me confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Receiving a bike as a gift allowed me to feel free in society, explore my community, and even join a cycling group where I’ve met wonderful people. 

Thank you again for everything you do. Your work changes lives, including mine.”  
Ladan, Bike Recipient 

About You and the Role  

You don’t need to have experience of being on a Board. In fact, the role would be ideal for someone considering taking on their first role as a trustee. We will work with you to understand your duties as a trustee and support you.

You will, however, have experience of one of more of priority areas we are looking for:

• Personal experience of our programmes and/or the UK asylum system
• Press and PR
• Charity governance
• Public, philanthropy and/or high-net worth giving
• Sector experience and/or contacts relevant to the work of The Bike Project

You will be joining a highly committed group of trustees who give their time, expertise and contacts to support the charity. Our trustees are critical in enabling us to thrive and this role plays a key role in supporting the wider board to fulfil its financial responsibilities.

You will work together with the wider staff team to set our strategic direction and improve our work with refugees. At the heart of everything we do is the real and immediate impact a bike makes to the lives of those who have been through so much. You will be part of us achieving that.

The time commitment for a trustee generally totals approximately 8 hours per month. Please see the role description for further details. 

Application Process  

Deadline for Applications: Friday 28 August 2026

Interviews: Late September – Early October 2026.

Appointment: October 2026 

We particularly encourage applications from people with personal experience of the asylum process, women, people of colour / people of the global majority, and people with disabilities.  

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact hradmin [at] thebikeproject [dot] co [dot] uk

Our small friendly Charity Shop in South Westminster

As well as being an important source of revenue for the Centre, the shop on Horseferry Road is the public face of the Cardinal Hume Centre to the residents and workers of Westminster. It can be a very busy environment with lots of regular customers. You will be part of a friendly, international team!  You will receive excellent support and opportunities to learn team skills and customer service.  You can obtain a reference for future employers.

How does this role make a difference?

You will be part of the fundraising team, raising funds to support the work of the Cardinal Hume Centre and promoting the work of the Centre to the public.

What will you be doing?

Flexibility will be given where possible, but in general, volunteers will undertake the following tasks as part of this role:

· Customer service on the till

· Cashing up at the end of the day and walking the takings round to the reception and handing in to Finance Team

· Greeting and helping customers

· Replenishing the stock on the shop floor

· Sorting donations

· Helping present top items in window display and around the shop

· Promoting the work of the Centre to the public

Want to increase your skills in retail?

If you want to develop in this role, we are keen to support you.  There are more responsibilities you can take on in the shop, for example; opening and closing the shop, cashing up at the end of the day and helping with the induction of new volunteers.  Let us know if this interests you.  We also have employment advisors who can provide employment support.  Furthermore, if you want to expand your experience in the voluntary sector, you can combine your role in the shop with a volunteer role elsewhere in the organisation.

What are we looking for?

No special qualifications are needed to work in our shop, as relevant training will be given, however, we will be asking for the following qualities:

· Over 18+

· Good spoken English needed – at least Entry Level 3

· The ability to contribute to a positive team culture and atmosphere

· Be able to provide a friendly, high-quality service to customers

· A commitment to equal opportunities and to treating all individuals who visit or work in the shop with dignity and respect

· Physically fit - able to lift light bags and boxes and to comfortably use the stairs between the shop floor and the stock room.  Manual handling training will be given.

What is the time commitment?

The shop opening hours are 10am – 4.30pm, Monday – Friday.  A full or half day (10 – 1pm or 1 – 4.30pm) is ideal, but weare flexible and are grateful for even a couple of hours help each week. Ideally, volunteers will commit to a period of at least 4 months.

How will you be supported?

· You will be supported and trained in all areas of retail and customer service by the Charity Shop Manager and the Assistant Shop Manager.

· You will receive a Centre induction from a Volunteer Coordinator

· You will be reimbursed for reasonable and agreed ‘out-of-pocket’ expenses such as travel and also lunch if working a full day.

· For volunteers who stay for more than three months, we are happy to provide a reference.

Chair of Trustees

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire

Voluntary role | Buckinghamshire

Are you a well-connected leader in Buckinghamshire with the energy and ambition to help a respected local charity grow its impact?

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire is seeking an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees.

About Us

We are part of the national Citizens Advice network, providing free, confidential and impartial advice to thousands of people each year across Buckinghamshire. We have offices in Aylesbury, Buckingham, High Wycombe and Chesham.

Our work helps people resolve problems around debt, housing, employment, benefits and consumer rights, often preventing crises, reducing pressure on public services and enabling individuals to regain stability and independence.

The organisation is stable, well-managed and ambitious. Following reductions in statutory funding and changes across the national network, we are now focused on strengthening income streams, raising our local profile and entering a new phase of growth.

The Opportunity

It is an opportunity to build on strong foundations and take the organisation forward.

As Chair, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees.

• Help strengthen funding and sustainability.

• Raise the profile of Citizens Advice across Buckinghamshire.

• Represent the organisation with funders, partners and the wider community.

• Champion the difference we make to people’s lives.

We are particularly interested in candidates who live in, or have strong knowledge and networks within Buckinghamshire (ideally central or south).

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking someone who brings:

• Strategic leadership experience (board or senior executive level).

• The confidence to support and constructively challenge a CEO.

• Strong networking skills and credibility locally.

• Commercial awareness and financial literacy.

• An interest in fundraising and partnership development.

• A genuine commitment to community impact.

Prior Chair experience is welcome but not essential. Energy, judgement and the ability to build relationships are key.

Time Commitment

• Four face-to-face Board meetings per year (2 hours each).

• Four subcommittee meetings per subcommittee annually Finance & Risk, Operations, People, and Fundraising).

• Annual strategy Away Day.

• Annual Staff & Volunteers Day.

• Attendance at selected fundraising and stakeholder events.

• Approximate commitment: 2 -4 days per month.

Why This Role Matters

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire helps people solve problems that, left unaddressed, cost families, councils and government far more in the long term.

As Chair, you will help ensure this essential service continues to thrive, supporting residents to become more financially secure, resilient and able to contribute fully to society.

For more information and how to apply download the Appointment Brief.

Closing date: 9am Friday 11 September 2026

Join us in shaping the next chapter of Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire.

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Could you be the reason a family feels supported and less alone during their toughest days?

Families staying in our homes are facing the unimaginable, and the skills and compassion of our volunteers can make all the difference. We’re looking for people who want to give their time and be part of something truly meaningful.

By volunteering in our homes, you’ll help create a place of calm, care and belonging for children, young people and families affected by cancer.

What you give as a volunteer goes far beyond practical support — it brings hope, humanity and kindness, and leaves a lasting impact on the families we support.

What you’ll be doing

• Develop activities that follow an inclusive programme of events, according to needs of region and service user demographic, remaining mindful of families that are observing religious holidays/customs

• In conjunction with our local fundraising team, approach local sources to donate to events, e.g. supermarkets to provide snacks for event

• Complete necessary administrative tasks associated with the event, e.g. creating and sending out posters.

Many people affected by terminal illness don't realise the support available to them until they need it.

By becoming a Community Ambassador Volunteer, you can help change that.

Local communities play a vital role in supporting people through some of life's most challenging times. You can help strengthen those community connections by sharing information about Marie Curie and raising awareness of the support available to anyone affected by terminal illness.

This is a flexible role that can fit around work, study, family life or retirement.

Whether you visit a local library, community centre, GP surgery, leisure centre or community event, you'll be building relationships, sharing information about Marie Curie and helping strengthen community awareness. (

Availability: Volunteer around your existing commitments

Time: Just 2-3 hours per month

Location: Within north East Derbyshire.

Volunteers are not expected to travel extensively across the area and can choose opportunities that are local and convenient to them.

Criteria: 18 years of age or over

What you'll do:

• Share Marie Curie information within your local community

• Display leaflets and resources in community venues

• Attend occasional local events on behalf of Marie Curie

• Help raise awareness of services and support available

• Signpost people to Marie Curie's website, support line and resources

• Identify opportunities to connect with new community groups and organisations

Why you'd be a great fit:

• Friendly and approachable

• Comfortable talking to people from different backgrounds and experiences

• Passionate about supporting their local community

• Organised and reliable

• Able to work independently while being part of a supportive team

• Knowledgeable about your local area or interested in learning more about it

Why volunteer with Marie Curie?

• Make a real difference in your local community

• Be part of a nationally recognised charity making a lasting impact

• Help people access the right support

• Volunteer flexibly around your existing commitments

• Receive training and ongoing support

• Meet new people and build connections locally

• Out-of-pocket travel and expenses reimbursed

• Access to discounts on shopping, travel, entertainment and more

• 15% discount in-store at our Marie Curie Shops (Terms & Conditions apply)

We’re looking for friendly, community minded volunteers to help make sure people across our area can easily find information about Dorothy House. By placing leaflets, posters and resources in the right places, you’ll help more people learn about the care and support we offer. You can also help by attending events such as local fairs, markets, small gatherings and networking meetings. You’ll be part of the team that brings our message directly to the public.

This role is incredibly valuable — every leaflet placed in the right spot helps someone feel more informed, supported, or connected.

Your friendly presence helps people learn about our work, ask questions, and feel connected to the care we provide. It’s a simple but powerful way to support fundraising and raise awareness across our community.

What you will be doing

• Distributing Dorothy House leaflets and posters in local shops, cafés, community venues and NHS settings
• Keeping an eye out for new places where information could be displayed and letting us know where Dorothy House is underrepresented so we can improve our reach
• Building light, friendly relationships with staff and community contacts
• Feeding back anything useful you notice while out and about
• Attending community events, fairs, markets, and local gatherings
• Supporting Dorothy House information stalls
• Chatting to members of the public, answering simple questions, sharing how they can support our work and passing on anything requiring further follow up
• Working alongside staff and other volunteers to make events run smoothly

The skills you need

• Is friendly, approachable and enjoys chatting with people
• Reliable and happy to operate independently as well as part of a team
• Likes being out in the community
• Wants to help Dorothy House be visible and accessible to everyone
• Is reliable and comfortable in busy or varied event settings

What's in it for you

• A simple, flexible way to make a real difference locally
• Full guidance and support from the Dorothy House team
• The chance to meet new people and build confidence

Please note:

This is a community‑based role. You can volunteer close to home or explore a wider area — whatever suits you best.

Volunteers need to be over 18 years old and will be expected to use their own transport and should have access to a car. Mileage or transport costs will be reimbursed.

If you would like to volunteer, then please click apply!

Applications are welcomed from all sections of the community.

Help Shape Aspire Oxfordshire's Next 25 Years

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

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

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

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

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

We are particularly interested in people with experience in:

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

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

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

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

As a Trustee you will:

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

Time Commitment

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

Trustees will typically attend:

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

Why Join Aspire?

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Role Purpose:

Help grow the sanctuary's network of supporters by building relationships with businesses, brands, media, influencers, and community organizations to increase awareness, secure donations, sponsorships, and create partnership opportunities that support dog rescue and adoption efforts.

Responsibilities

• Research and identify potential corporate partners, sponsors, and donors
• Reach out to local and international businesses
• Develop sponsorship and fundraising opportunities
• Build relationships with pet brands, retailers, and service providers
• Contact influencers, creators, and media outlets
• Seek in-kind donations (food, supplies, veterinary support, transport, etc.)
• Promote adoption campaigns through partnerships
• Maintain a database of contacts and opportunities
• Represent the sanctuary professionally in external communications

Ideal Skills

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Experience in sales, fundraising, partnerships, PR, marketing, or business development is a plus
• Comfortable with email outreach and networking
• Passion for animal welfare
• Self-motivated and organized

By helping secure partnerships and sponsorships, you will directly support the care of rescue dogs, increase adoption opportunities, and help the sanctuary reach more supporters worldwide.

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. 

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Independent Trustee – Royal College of Physicians

Location: London, with online attendance possible if necessary

Term: Up to four years, with potential reappointment for an additional term 

Time Commitment: Approximately 1.5 days per month 

Remuneration: Voluntary position, with reasonable expenses reimbursed 

 Help shape the future of medicine via digital governance

Are you a senior digital, AI or cyber security leader who can bring independent judgement, constructive challenge and strategic assurance to one of the UK’s most historic and influential medical membership bodies? 

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) is seeking to appoint an Independent Trustee with expertise in digital transformation, AI governance and/or cyber security. This is a distinctive opportunity to help ensure the RCP’s governance maturity keeps pace with the changing digital environment, while supporting its charitable purpose and long-term resilience. 

 About the organisation:

Founded in 1518, the Royal College of Physicians is a professional membership body for physicians, with around 40,000 members and fellows globally working across hospitals, communities and 30 medical specialties. Everything the RCP does is aimed at improving patient care, reducing illness, setting high standards in medicine and shaping better health for all. 

The RCP employs around 350 staff and has an operating budget of approximately £40 million per year. Its work spans education, clinical standards, policy, advocacy, leadership development and support for physicians across the UK and internationally. 

In April 2026, the RCP launched its new strategy for 2026–2030, centred on four priorities: connection, standards, voice and renewal. The strategy focuses on supporting members and fellows, strengthening community, advocating for the future of medicine, and building organisational resilience and responsible growth. 

The Opportunity:

As an Independent Trustee, you will provide objective scrutiny, external perspective and strategic challenge as part of the Board of Trustees. You will act collectively with fellow trustees in the best interests of the RCP and its charitable purposes, helping to ensure the organisation is well run, financially sustainable, compliant and focused on delivering public benefit. 

Your specialist contribution will be to bring senior-level expertise in digital, AI and/or cyber security governance to support Board deliberations, strengthen assurance and guide effective oversight of risks and opportunities. You will work alongside independent trustees, senior officer clinicians, the President, Chair, Chief Executive and executive team at a pivotal moment in the RCP’s development. 

This voluntary position offers the chance to: 

· Bring expert oversight to digital transformation, AI governance, cyber security and organisational risk. 

· Support the delivery of the RCP’s 2026–2030 strategy and its commitment to modern, transparent governance. 

· Provide constructive challenge and independent judgement on strategic, financial, operational and reputational matters. 

 About You:

We are seeking an experienced, collaborative and values-led leader who brings: 

· Senior leadership experience in a complex organisation. 

· High-level expertise in digital transformation, AI governance and/or cyber security governance. 

· Experience of serving on, or working closely with, a board or equivalent governance body. 

· An understanding of charity governance and the legal duties of trusteeship, or the willingness to develop this quickly. 

· A commitment to the RCP’s mission, values and strategic objectives. 

Experience of working in or with a professional membership body, charity, regulator, public body or healthcare-related organisation would be highly desirable, although we welcome candidates whose broader experience and perspectives can strengthen the Board. 

Application Deadline:

5pm Monday 7th September 2026

How to Apply

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to Royal College of Physicians on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack in the first instance.

Use of AI in applications:

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.