767 Support manager volunteer roles

Do you want to use your financial expertise to make a real difference to people’s lives?

Mental health affects all of us — yet for too many people, financial circumstances can stand between them and the support they need. At FreshStart, we believe everyone should have access to safe, professional and affordable therapy, whatever their circumstances.

FreshStart Psychotherapy C.I.C. is seeking a Treasurer and Director to join our Board and help guide the financial sustainability and growth of our organisation. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in a passionate, community-focused organisation with a simple but powerful mission: to make high-quality psychotherapy available to people on low incomes who might otherwise be unable to afford it.

Treasurer Role Description

Purpose of the Role

To maintain effective financial oversight of FreshStart Psychotherapy C.I.C., ensuring financial sustainability, sound governance, and compliance with all relevant financial and regulatory requirements.

The Treasurer will provide financial leadership to the Board and support informed decision-making that enables the organisation to achieve its mission and strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership

• Contribute actively to the development and implementation of the organisation's strategy.
• Advise the Board on the financial implications of strategic decisions.
• Support sustainable growth and long-term financial planning.
• Help identify opportunities for funding diversification and organisational development.

2. Financial Oversight

• Ensure the Board receives clear, accurate, and timely financial information.
• Monitor the financial health and sustainability of the organisation.
• Review management accounts, budgets, cash flow forecasts, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure appropriate financial controls, policies, and procedures are in place and regularly reviewed.
• Oversee the preparation and filing of statutory accounts and financial returns.
• Support the development and monitoring of reserves and risk management policies.
• Work closely with any external accountants, auditors, or financial advisers as required.

3. Governance and Compliance

• Ensure the Board understands and fulfils its financial responsibilities.
• Support compliance with relevant regulatory, legal, and reporting requirements.
• Promote good governance and transparency across the organisation.
• Contribute to risk management and financial decision-making.

General Responsibilities of a Director

In addition to the Treasurer responsibilities, all Directors are expected to:

• Contribute actively to setting the organisation's strategic direction.
• Ensure the organisation remains focused on its mission and objectives.
• Safeguard the organisation's reputation, values, and resources.
• Monitor organisational performance and impact.
• Ensure resources are used effectively and responsibly.
• Act in the best interests of FreshStart Psychotherapy C.I.C. and its beneficiaries.
• Declare and manage any conflicts of interest.
• Participate in Board meetings and relevant working groups.
• Stay informed about developments affecting mental health services, the voluntary sector, and community wellbeing.

Person Specification

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who have:

Essential

• A recognised accountancy qualification or equivalent financial expertise.
• Experience in financial management, accounting, audit, or financial governance.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• The ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.
• A commitment to the mission of improving access to mental health support.

Desirable

• Experience of charity, CIC, voluntary sector, or healthcare governance.
• Knowledge of fundraising, grant funding, or social enterprise finance.
• Previous board or trustee experience.
• An interest in mental health, wellbeing, and reducing barriers to accessing support.

Guild Care is seeking to welcome a new Trustee with experience in financial auditing to our Board.

Established in 1933, Guild Care has been supporting local people and their families for over 90 years. Our vision is for all people in need of care to live fulfilling, safe, and secure lives.

Each year, we support more than 3,000 people and their families through our diverse range of community services and three care homes. From tackling social isolation and supporting people living with dementia, to providing vital services for older people and those with learning disabilities, our work helps people feel connected, valued, and accepted for who they are.

A Trustee of Guild Care has a responsibility to ensure that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in the pursuit of the objectives of the charity.

As part of that responsibility a Trustee needs to actively contribute to the work of the Board by helping set the strategic direction and overall policy, monitoring organisational performance, and supporting organisational development.

The Board of Trustees are also responsible for providing challenges and scrutiny of the senior management team in a positive and supportive environment. 

Come and join the magical Patchworking Garden Project, established in 2015. It is a volunteer run charity supporting volunteers with a wide variety of physical and mental health needs through gardening, crafting and friendship. We have a strong identity within the local community and are known for increasing the wellbeing of those we support by valuing everyone’s contribution unreservedly, enhancing self-confidence and encouraging, where appropriate, progression to other activities. The Charity is run entirely by volunteers and those whom we support are supported volunteers.

Under the charity we also run The Patchworking Academy which offers the opportunity to gain an internationally recognised City & Guilds qualification in Practical Horticulture Skills. The Academy seeks to address inclusion via employment-ready qualifications for adults facing challenging circumstances. With the guidance of experienced and highly qualified therapeutic horticulture tutors, learners work at their own pace with a small group of other interested learners.

We are looking for a chair with some charity and governance experience who is

● able to quickly grasp what our values are and how we operate

● used to managing change

● happy in a leadership role,

● committed to a collaborative way of working 

● comfortable dealing with finances (preferably in the charity sector)

It is a lovely role for the right person so do get in touch for a chat if you think you might be interested.  There is a full role description available.

Role Description

Our Organisation

Womankind Worldwide is a global women’s rights organisation working in partnership with women’s rights movements and organisations to transform the lives of women and girls. We strengthen and support women’s movements in our focus countries in Africa and Asia, and take collective action at regional and global levels, to ensure women’s voices are heard, their rights are realised, and their lives are free from violence. Womankind Worldwide is a UK registered charity.

Overall Purpose

The Finance and Resources Committee Member supports Womankind’s Honorary Treasurer and Board Members in relation to Finance, People and Culture, Risk and Resources, across jurisdictions.

The Finance & Resources Committee Member works alongside the Honorary Treasurer and other Committee members, bringing independent expertise, scrutiny and constructive challenge to help ensure Womankind remains financially sustainable, accountable, compliant and aligned with our feminist and anti-racist values.

The Finance & Resources Committee Member is not a member of Womankind’s Board of Trustees and does not carry trustee responsibilities.

Our Vision is: A world where all women, girls and people of all genders enjoy equal rights and freedoms and live with joy, choice and dignity.

Location: We are a Hybrid organisation and the Finance and Resources Committee meets online. We are registered in the UK and Kenya and have flexible working spaces for our mainly remote team in Nairobi and London.

Time commitment: The Finance & Resources Committee (FRC) meet 4 times per year. Members are expected to read papers in advance and may occasionally attend additional ad-hoc meetings with the Honorary Treasurer or Director of Finance, People & Culture. The estimated time commitment is 6-8 days per year.

Start Date: December 2026.

Duration: 3 years.

Salary: This is an unpaid voluntary position. Reasonable expenses/per diems for travel and subsistence whilst on Womankind business are reimbursable.

Support: The Finance & Resources Committee Member is supported by The Honorary Treasurer, fellow Finance & Resources Committee members and by a staff team comprising: Director Finance & People & Culture, Manager People, Culture & Wellbeing, Co-CEOs and Leadership Support Manager.

Specific Responsibilities

1. To contribute to the Finance & Resources Committee to fulfil its governance responsibilities.

• To work with the Honorary Treasurer in ensuring satisfactory systems and processes for holding monies or property in trust, for use in line with the organisation’s charitable objects.

• To work with the Honorary Treasurer to ensure that where appropriate monies are invested to the greatest benefit of Womankind, within the constraints of the law and ethical investment practices.

2. To ensure that Womankind Worldwide is meeting its obligations and that financial management is line with good practice.

• To work alongside the Honorary Treasurer in ensuring that Womankind operates within the legal and financial guidelines as set out in current legislation and its own policies in the UK and Kenya.

• To work with the Finance & Resources Committee on oversight of the following areas:

• ensuring that Womankind has adequate financial controls in place that are being practised and that the organisation operates within a sound financial framework.

• in management identifying financial risks and recommending appropriate action.

• ensuring appropriate reserves policy and management.

• financial implications and risks of Womankind’s strategy and policy objectives.

3. To provide oversight that Human Resources Policies are developed and delivered in line with organisational values, good practice and legislation in the UK and Kenya.

• To work with the Finance & Resources Committee on oversight of organisation human resources policy:

• ensuring that Womankind designs and implements human resources policies and procedures which are fit for purpose in relation to organisational strategy and values as well as relevant legislation.

• ensuring that terms & conditions are equitable across jurisdictions.

• holding management to account for timely development and review of policies appropriate to nature of the risk, in line with agreed schedules.

• to support identification of human resources risks and recommended actions.

4. To contribute to feminist and values-led governance

• To bring a feminist, anti-racist and power-conscious lens to financial, people and organisational decision-making.

• To consider how decisions about resources affect staff, partners and other stakeholders.

• To contribute to an inclusive governance culture grounded in accountability, transparency and collective decision-making.

Person Specification

Qualification and training

• Recognised full qualification in accounting and / or qualification by experience.

Experience and Knowledge

• Solid experience of leadership in relation to finance, human resources and risk management in organisations operating across multiple jurisdictions.

• Track record of facilitating and scrutinising development and delivery of finance and human resources strategies

• Excellent understanding of not-for-profit finance and relevant financial legislation in the UK

• Good understanding of international issues and the current challenges facing UK NGOs working internationally, including in relation to coloniality

Skills and Personal Attributes

• Leadership qualities with high integrity and ability to foster inclusive and collective decision making.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Rigour, impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.

• A willingness to speak one’s mind and to exercise independent judgement.

• Understanding of and commitment to working in line with Womankind’s feminist, anti-racist values.

Ability to make the time commitment required to perform the functions of the role, including participating in meetings scheduled within office hours.

Timelines

Deadline for Applications: 5pm BST 2nd October. We reserve the right to close applications earlier.

Interviews expected to take place WC 19th October 2026

About Us

The Women & Families Resource Centre (WFRC) is a registered charity based in Wolverhampton that supports, empowers, and advocates for women and children.

We aim to encourage women to become self-reliant by helping them identify their needs, make informed choices, and create their own solutions. Our services include a baby bank, a charity shop, and a range of community support initiatives for women facing crises or challenging circumstances.

Our Wolverhampton Baby Bank is a flagship project supporting families with children aged 0–3 by providing essential items and connecting them to vital community services.

About the Role

We are looking for a dedicated and organised Volunteer Office Manager (Onsite Volunteer) to oversee day-to-day administrative operations and act as the first point of contact for clients, visitors, and enquiries.

This is a key role within the organisation, ensuring smooth communication, efficient processes, and a high standard of compassionate service delivery to the community.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact for all incoming phone inquiries and visitors.

• Respond to client inquiries professionally and compassionately.

• Conduct initial intake screening and gather essential client information.

• Schedule appointments and manage staff calendars.

• Maintain accurate records of calls, referrals, and appointments.

• Manage email correspondence and administrative communications.

• Prepare, organize, and securely maintain client documentation.

• Maintain digital and physical filing systems in compliance with data protection policies.

• Support day-to-day office operations and ensure smooth administrative workflow.

• Track action items from meetings and follow up with relevant staff.

• Assist in preparing reports, summaries, and operational documentation.

• Coordinate communication between staff, volunteers, and external partners.

• Monitor office supplies and maintain administrative resources.

• Ensure compliance with safeguarding, confidentiality, and organizational policies.

• Escalate urgent, complex, or sensitive cases to appropriate personnel.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong organisational and multitasking abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Confident handling phone and client-facing interactions
• Compassionate, professional, and client-focused approach
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Understanding of confidentiality and data protection practices

Experience & Qualifications

• Previous experience in office administration, customer service, or similar roles preferred.
• Experience in nonprofit, community, or healthcare settings is an advantage
• Degree in Business Administration, Management, or related field (preferred but not essential).

Why Volunteer With Us?

• Gain hands-on experience in office management and operations
• Develop leadership, communication, and coordination skills
• Work in a supportive, purpose-driven environment
• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of women and families
• Build valuable experience for your CV

Apply Now

If you’re organised, compassionate, and looking to make a real difference while building your professional experience, we’d love to hear from you.

This role is working therapeutically alongside a child/young person on one of our bereavement support programmes in a group setting.  Ideally you will have experience in working with children.

You will be working therapeutically with your allocated child.  You will have a group leader who will guide you through the structure of each day. There is also a program manager who will oversee and facilitate the whole weekend program.

You will also be expected to attend a debrief at the end of the weekend and also complete detailed documentation on the child/ young person you have been working with.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided during a weekend.  We will pay 45 pence per mile to cover your travel expenses. We will provide training (Safeguarding Children, Volunteer Induction Day and other specialist training days).

You will also have the opportunity to observe a weekend programme in action before you work with a child / young person. We will pay for your DBS check and provide you with a t-shirt with our logo on.

We would love for you to join our Information & Advice Service as a Community Outreach Volunteer.

This is a rewarding opportunity to meet new people, support your local community, and help individuals access the information and services they need. As part of our friendly team, you will attend local groups and community activities, offering information, guidance, and signposting to relevant services, support organisations, and community groups.

You may also help people complete a range of forms, including Attendance Allowance applications and other benefit-related paperwork, giving them the confidence and support they need to access available help.

In this role, you could be:

• Providing a warm, friendly, and welcoming experience for members of your local community.

• Signposting people to relevant local services, activities, and sources of support.

• Assisting individuals with completing forms, including Attendance Allowance and other benefit applications.

• Offering straightforward information and guidance where appropriate.

We're looking for people who enjoy working as part of a team, meeting new people, and making a positive difference in their community.

You'll be a good listener with strong communication skills, a caring and empathetic approach, and a willingness to help others. Basic IT skills and record-keeping experience are helpful, and experience using the internet and Microsoft 365 would be an advantage. Don't worry if you're still learning though, as training and support will be provided.

We reimburse all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred while volunteering.

Getting started is easy. If you're aged 18 or over, simply click "Apply" and complete the application form. We'd love to hear from you and welcome you to our team.

Carers Support is looking for a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board and support the next stage of our development. This is an important voluntary role for someone with strong board or senior governance experience who wants to make a real difference to unpaid carers.

About Carers Support

We are an independent charity supporting thousands of unpaid carers of all ages across Bristol and South Gloucestershire. We provide advice, information, practical help, emotional support, training, young carers services and more.

Our vision is that all carers are recognised, valued and supported. We work closely with the NHS, local authorities and voluntary organisations, and hold the Trusted Charity quality mark

Main duties would include:

As Chair of Trustees, you will:

• Lead the Board and help set the charity’s strategic direction

• Support and work closely with the Chief Executive

• Make sure the Board fulfils its legal and governance duties

• Encourage a positive, open and inclusive Board culture

• Ensure meetings are well-run and support good discussion and decision-making

• Help the charity respond to the needs and views of unpaid carers

• Ensure risks, finances and performance are monitored effectively

You do not need previous chairing experience. We are looking for someone with solid board or committee experience who can guide a group and support strong governance.

What we’re looking for

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and lived experiences. We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Board, governance or senior decision-making experience

• Calm, confident leadership and good people skills

• The ability to facilitate effective meetings or a willingness to learn

• Sound judgement and the confidence to ask questions

• A commitment to improving the lives of unpaid carers

• Time to prepare for and attend meetings

Time commitment

• 4 board meetings per year (2 hours each)

• Regular meetings with the Chief Executive

• Occasional committee meetings, events or development sessions

• Additional committee meetings, events or development sessions, as required

What you’ll gain

• A meaningful leadership opportunity with social impact

• Strategic experience in a respected local charity

• Supportive induction, training and ongoing guidance

• A warm and collaborative Board environment

 There’s lots more we could tell you, but why not apply and come and see for yourself.  If you’d like any further information, please email our recruitment team with your details and we’ll arrange for someone to call you back.

Please visit our website for all the information you need and details of how to apply.  All expressions of interest and CV’s should be returned to our recruitment inbox.

Closing date for applications is 30th September 2026 (however this vacancy may close early if we find a suitable candidate).

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer, and our workplace is free of barriers and fully accessible for people with disabilities.  We are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults; from recruitment of staff through to supporting our team working with families and carers in crisis.

Registered Charity No:  1063226

Job Overview

The Abundant Woman is looking for an experienced and compassionate Human Resources (HR) Manager to help build and support our growing team. This role is essential for creating a positive work environment that reflects our mission of empowering women, ensuring our HR policies are inclusive, and managing the full HR lifecycle—from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and staff well-being.

Key Responsibilities

 •  Oversee recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes to attract and retain top talent aligned with our values.

 •  Develop and implement HR policies that promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture.

 •  Provide guidance and support on employee relations, performance management, and conflict resolution.

 •  Coordinate training and professional development opportunities to support employee growth and well-being.

 •  Ensure compliance with UK employment laws and maintain up-to-date employee records and HR documentation.

Key Skills and Qualifications

 •  Proven experience as an HR Manager or in a similar role, preferably in a nonprofit or social enterprise setting.

 •  Strong knowledge of UK employment law, HR best practices, and compliance requirements.

 •  Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with an empathetic and solutions-oriented approach.

 •  Organisational and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail in managing HR processes.

 •  Passion for supporting a mission-driven team and fostering an inclusive work culture.

Why Join Us?

As the HR Manager at The Abundant Woman, you’ll be a key part of a mission-driven team dedicated to creating impactful change. This role offers the unique opportunity to shape our organisation’s culture and provide meaningful support to a team committed to empowering women.

Why we want you

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing Book and Music Shops you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Researching valuable, rare and antiquated stock.
• Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.
• Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays.
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
• This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.

The skills you need

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.
• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required.
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.
• Knowledge and interest in books or music.

What's in it for you

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered).
• Access to training and development.
• Grow your confidence and meet new people.
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle.
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust.
• Possible references for future employers.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join a distinctive and values-driven organisation. We are seeking a new Treasurer to join the Board of Trustees and play a crucial role in supporting the organisation’s sustainable future. While prior knowledge of brain injury is not required, the Treasurer is expected to demonstrate an interest in  brain injury, as well as in the Headway community, and to share the organisation’s mission and values.

The Treasurer will lead on the financial strategy, work closely with the Director of Finance, ensuring that financial insight informs the Board’s strategic thinking. This will include thorough pre-review of financial reports ahead of each Board meeting, chairing Finance & Audit Committee meetings, and presenting financial reports to the Board and at the AGM.

The role holder, will support the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities for the charity’s ambitious strategy and governance. They will work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and provide guidance to the Director of Finance and Chief Executive on the strategic management of finances.

Other

Apply the Headway London values and behaviours to every aspect of the role at all times.

Protect and enhance the interests and reputation of Headway London internally and externally.

Commit to the organisational principles of: coproduction equity, diversity and inclusion sustainability.

Headway London is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we are committed to ensuring that all staff are motivated, skilled and rewarded by their work. We welcome applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, colour, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age and other protected status as required by law. We promote and protect human rights; they are the foundation of what we do. We want to be an inclusive place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come and contribute their unique strengths and perspectives. We are focused on equality and believe that all the fascinating characteristics that make us different, make us more able to deliver our life-changing work with passion and creativity.

About us:

Business Launchpad (BLP) is an enterprise charity based in Tooting, in the London Borough of Wandsworth. We support young people aged 18 to 30 to start and grow their own businesses, access employment, and build skills for economic independence.

Our core programmes are:

• Pathways, our flagship 12-week enterprise cohort programme, guiding young people from idea to early-stage business.

• Business Lab, a 6-week pipeline programme for young people exploring enterprise as a route forward.

• Career Connect, our annual employability fair connecting young people with employers and opportunities.

About this Volunteer role:

Location: Tooting Works, Tooting, London SW17

Duration: Minimum 4 weeks, up to 12 weeks (flexible by arrangement)

Hours: Part-time or full-time by arrangement

Remuneration: Volunteer

This role sits within our Programmes and Delivery team. You will work alongside our Programme Coordinator on the recruitment, onboarding and administrative tasks that keep our programmes running day to day.

It is a practical role with real responsibility. You will see how a charity programme team works from the inside, including how we bring young people onto our programmes, track their progress and stay in contact with partners and referrers.

What You Will do:

Recruitment and Participant Outreach:

• Support recruitment campaigns for Pathways and Business Lab across digital channels.

• Help manage the enquiries inbox and respond to initial expressions of interest.

Onboarding and Administration:

• Help prepare and send out welcome packs, joining instructions and programme information.

• Assist with collecting participant documents, consent forms and eligibility evidence.

• Help communicate session timetables and any changes to participants.

Programme Administration:

• Help prepare session materials, including printing, digital uploads and room or resource coordination.

• Maintain recruitment progress tracking spreadsheets.

• Assist with gathering participant feedback to support our monitoring and evaluation.

Communications Support:

• Provide day-to-day administrative support to the programme team, including sending emails, texts messages and making phone calls with programme participants.

• Follow up new leads for programme interest and support with discovery chat bookings and follow ups.

What We Are Looking For:

You do not need previous charity experience. We are looking for someone reliable and well organised who genuinely wants to support young people. We will give you the training and supervision you need to do the role well.

Essential

• Good organisational skills and attention to detail.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills.

• Confident using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) or Google Workspace.

• Able to handle sensitive information with care and discretion.

• Happy to ask questions and take initiative when needed.

• Commitment to equity and inclusion and to supporting young people from all backgrounds.

Desirable

• Some experience or interest in the charity, education or public sector.

• Experience supporting events, recruitment or communications work.

• Some knowledge of the challenges young people face in finding work or starting a business.

What You Will Gain

By the end of your placement, you will have:

• First-hand experience of how a funded charity programme is planned, recruited and delivered.

• Practical experience using a CRM system (Salesforce) and a Learning Management System.

• Stronger skills in participant communications, data management and programme administration.

• A good working knowledge of the youth enterprise and employability sector in London.

• A reference from Business Launchpad on completion.

• Access to the BLP alumni network and future opportunities where relevant.

Volunteering Arrangements

The placement is based at Tooting Works in South London. Some tasks may be done remotely, depending on the stage of the programme cycle, and this can be agreed with your line manager.

We ask volunteers to commit to their agreed hours and to give notice if they cannot attend. We will agree a schedule at the start that works for both of us.

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.

Administration Support Volunteer

When someone reaches out to us, often in a moment of crisis, our administration support volunteers are one of the first voices they hear. You make sure that voice is calm, kind, and helpful.

You support people in a housing crisis, as well as offering assistance and information to supporters, volunteers, and members of the public who get in touch by phone, email, or in person. Working alongside our trained staff, you’ll help answer calls to our support line and keep things running smoothly across our office and support centre.

A big part of this role is helping the office runs smoothly day to day. That means getting involved in a wide variety of tasks, from supporting our databases and keeping records up to date, to helping with general admin, organising information, and making sure everything is where it needs to be so the staff and volunteer team can focus on supporting people. You’ll also help us keep accurate records so that people get the right support at the right time.

You’ll be helping with things like:

• Being a friendly first point of contact by phone, email, or at the door. 
• Listening carefully and recording important information accurately. 
• Supporting people with enquiries and helping them feel heard and understood. 
• Helping keep our databases and records up to date. 
• Supporting a wide range of daily admin tasks across the office. 
• Keeping the office organised so the team can focus on supporting people. 
• Helping prepare spaces for meetings and everyday activity. 
• Filing, scanning, and handling post. 
• Making refreshments and helping create a welcoming environment. 
• Supporting with basic stock checks and office supplies. 

What matters most in this role

We don’t expect you to know everything already. What matters most is:

• You’re kind, patient, and a good listener. 
• You can stay calm when things feel busy or emotionally challenging. 
• You’re comfortable using a phone, email and a computer, Microsoft Office and happy to learn new systems. 
• You understand the importance of confidentiality and treating people with respect. 
• You’re reliable and willing to be part of a team that supports each other. 
• You’re happy to help with a mix of people-facing and computer-based tasks.

 What you’ll gain

You’ll receive a full induction and ongoing support so you feel confident in your role. This includes training in safeguarding, confidentiality, and the systems we use day to day.
Many of our volunteers find this role deeply rewarding, not just because of the skills they gain, but because of the part they play in supporting people through difficult moments. We’re also happy to provide a reference for future opportunities.
 

When you’ll volunteer
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM and/or 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. 
We ask for around one shift a week wherever possible, but we’re flexible.