1,283 Support work volunteer roles

We are looking for team members who can commit for a minimum of 10 weeks, with adaptable profiles and who have the enthusiasm and energy we need to provide support in various areas across the organisation.

In this generalist role, you will find yourself responsible for a variety of tasks, helping to ensure that both our programme activities and day-to-day operations run smoothly. Second Tree works in a transparent way, in a challenging and changeable situation in the field; therefore, an ability to learn quickly and be open to feedback is vital. 

Your role would include:

The possible tasks included below are not exhaustive or rigidly defined; an exact role profile is dependent on the skill set of individual applicants. An average day might see you talking to students in a camp to tell them about a new class, or supporting the writing of a grant proposal. Tasks could loosely fall within 4 key areas:

Programmes

• Supporting programme coordinators in maintaining the day to day running of their activities with the Youth or Adult Education Programmes

• Supporting our children’s teachers or workshop facilitators in the planning or delivery of classes or excursions outside of camps

• Communicating key messages about our programmes to our students in camps

Admin, Finance & Logistics

• Supporting our management team in liaising with external partners

• Maintaining organisation-wide financial processes

• Coordinating the arrival and housing of incoming team members

Grants & Partnerships

• Supporting in the identification of relevant grants

• Supporting in grant writing activities

 Communications & Fundraising

• Contributing to the written/visual content of Second Tree’s social media output

• Developing social media strategies to expand our reach and impact

• Producing regular reports on performance

• Maintaining our website

• Supporting the planning and implementation of Second Tree’s fundraising initiatives, such as campaigns

• Organising and maintaining regular communications with Second Tree’s donors (newsletters, thank you letters)

You should be able to:

• Be accountable and efficient, making sure that tasks that you take up are completed on the agreed timeframe

• Be honest and transparent, being able to give and receive feedback in the most straightforward way possible

• Care for people; the interests of the people we work with should always be your first concern

• Instil the values above in the people that work with you

• Have keen problem-solving abilities, and a good understanding of what questions to ask, and when

• Communicate in English, both written and orally

• Learn quickly, managing a wide-ranging and intense workload

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.

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.

Help lead a vital local service supporting people across Wythenshawe when they need it most. We’re looking for a compassionate, organised and practical Foodbank Manager who can keep our day-to-day operations running smoothly while helping us build for the future.

Wythenshawe Foodbank is an independent charity and part of the Trussell network. Through our central hub and community distribution centres, we provide emergency food and support to local people facing financial hardship and crisis.

This is a varied, hands-on role at the heart of the organisation. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you’ll coordinate activity across our foodbank sites, support our dedicated volunteers and work closely with our Warehouse Manager, referral agencies, donors and community partners.

No two days will be quite the same. You could be supporting volunteers at a distribution centre, responding to an urgent enquiry, reviewing stock levels, preparing information for trustees or representing the foodbank at a local event. You’ll need to be comfortable balancing people, practical operations and administration, while always ensuring that everyone who uses our service is treated with dignity, empathy and respect.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Coordinating the day-to-day operation of the foodbank and its distribution centres
• Supporting volunteers and working closely with centre supervisors
• Overseeing communications and acting as a first point of contact for enquiries
• Working with the Warehouse Manager to monitor stock and maintain supply
• Managing relationships with referral agencies, donors and community partners
• Monitoring performance data and providing clear updates to trustees
• Supporting fundraising, outreach, newsletters, social media and local publicity
• Maintaining accurate financial and administrative records
• Ensuring high standards of health and safety, food hygiene, data protection and safeguarding
• Helping the foodbank meet Trussell’s operating standards and legal requirements

We’re looking for someone who combines compassion with strong organisational skills. You’ll be an excellent communicator who can build positive relationships with people from a wide range of backgrounds. You’ll be calm under pressure, confident working independently and willing to get involved wherever needed.

Experience in charity operations, volunteer coordination, community services or a similar people-focused environment would be valuable. Most importantly, you’ll understand the realities facing people in crisis and share our commitment to providing support without judgement.

This is an opportunity to take on a meaningful role where your work will have a direct impact on the local community. You’ll join a committed team of trustees, staff and volunteers who care deeply about Wythenshawe and the people we support.

The role is for 17.5 hours per week, with working days and hours to be agreed. Some occasional evening or weekend work may be required. The initial contract is for 12 months, with the hope that it will continue subject to funding.

Join our amazing volunteer team in this flexible opportunity that puts you at the heart of our work supporting blind and partially sighted people. You’ll make taking part in events and carrying out volunteering easier and more enjoyable for our customers and volunteers with sight loss.
You’ll take some of the stress and anxiety out of getting around and taking part in activities as a blind or partially sighted person. The help you give will encourage people to do more.

What you’ll be doing
• Sighted guiding / giving practical help to individuals in and around venues, so they can take part in events.
• Supporting volunteers with sight loss with their volunteering activities which range from facilitating a regular community group to delivering a talk about sight loss to a local business. Your role would involve things like guiding; Meeting and greeting at group activities or creating a welcoming and interesting display stand at events.

In this role you will only be helping individuals in places open to the public, often in a group setting. We will provide training in sighted guiding techniques and understanding sight loss.
We would particularly like to recruit support volunteers within the Downpatrick area (last Wednesday of every month)

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Event

Key requirements

• This role requires one reference

Location

Region

• Northern Ireland

Additional location information

• We are particularly looking for Volunteers to Support the West Belfast walk every Friday in Falls Park 10.30 am-12pm We are particularly looking for volunteers to provide support and sighted guiding for the 18-35 meet ups that happen once a month usually in Belfast but may travel from Belfast to other areas for example Hillsborough. It’s one Saturday per month

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people. • An empathetic and professional manner. • The ability to take the supportive and helpful role.

Volunteer Social Media Engagement Assistant (Remote)

Organisation: Influential Stars

Location: Remote – UK based Commitment: Approximately 15 flexible hours per week

Contract Type: Volunteer

About Us

Influential Stars is a purpose-driven platform connecting Creators, Collaborators, supporters and causes through exclusive experiences, sponsored events and fundraising campaigns. We believe anyone with a BIG heart can use their influence, networks and community to make a positive difference.

Our Story

Influential Stars was founded by Lisa Connell, who is living with an inoperable brain tumour and has spent many years supporting charitable causes. The platform was created from a simple belief: when influence, connection and community come together, they can create meaningful impact.

Role and Purpose

We are looking for a friendly, proactive and socially confident individual to help Influential Stars maintain a warm, visible and engaging presence across its social media platforms. As our Volunteer Social Media Engagement Assistant, you will interact as Influential Stars with Creators, Collaborators, registered causes and supporters.

You will respond to comments, acknowledge tags and shares, engage with relevant content and help ensure questions and opportunities reach the appropriate team member. This is primarily a social media engagement role.

Routine content creation, planning and scheduling are not core responsibilities; however, experience in these areas would be advantageous, as there may occasionally be opportunities to provide support or cover by mutual agreement. Your main purpose will be to help people feel noticed, valued and connected to the Influential Stars community.

Key Responsibilities

● Monitor comments, mentions, tags and relevant messages across Influential Stars’ social media accounts. ● Respond to comments in the approved Influential Stars tone of voice. ● Thank people for sharing, supporting, nominating or engaging with Influential Stars. ● Engage regularly as Influential Stars with registered Creators, Collaborators and causes. ● Like, comment on and support appropriate posts shared by members of the Influential Stars community. ● Engage regularly as Influential Stars with appropriate content shared by registered Creators, Collaborators and causes, including posts relating to live and upcoming campaigns. ● Help members of the Influential Stars community feel noticed and supported through consistent, meaningful interaction. ● Identify potential Creators, Collaborators, supporters and causes through social media engagement. ● Direct people towards the relevant Influential Stars information, registration page or support resources. ● Forward enquiries and potential opportunities requiring further action to the appropriate team member. ● Immediately escalate complaints, safeguarding concerns, payment questions, confidential information and any other sensitive or complex communications. ● Monitor for spam, inappropriate content or suspicious activity and report it to the relevant team member. ● Keep accurate notes of enquiries and follow-up actions where required. ● Share useful feedback, common questions and engagement opportunities with the wider team. ● Contribute ideas for improving community engagement and strengthening relationships across social media. Social Media Platforms The role will include engagement across: ● Instagram ● Facebook ● LinkedIn ● TikTok ● YouTube ● Other relevant platforms introduced by Influential Stars Skills and Experience Required Essential ● Excellent written communication skills. ● A friendly, warm and professional communication style. ● Confidence interacting with people through social media. ● Good judgement when responding publicly on behalf of an organisation. ● Ability to recognise when an enquiry needs to be passed to another team member. ● Strong attention to detail, including spelling and grammar. ● Reliable, proactive and able to work independently. ● Comfortable following approved guidance, templates and brand messaging. ● Passion for helping others and supporting meaningful causes. ● Respect for confidentiality and sensitive personal circumstances. Desirable ● Interest in digital marketing, social media, communications, PR, charities or fundraising. ● Experience carrying out social media engagement on behalf of a business, charity or organisation. ● An understanding of how engagement differs across Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok. ● Experience with community management, customer service or online relationship building. ● Experience creating, planning or scheduling branded social media content would be advantageous.

Previous professional experience is not essential.

Full training, guidance and example responses will be provided.

Working Arrangement

● Fully remote volunteer position. ● Flexible hours to fit around studies, employment and other commitments. ● Typical commitment of approximately 15 hours per week. ● The hours should be spread across the week, with regular short check-ins to maintain consistent social media engagement. ● Availability to attend our weekly online team meeting on Mondays from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. ● Ongoing support from the Influential Stars team.

Why Volunteer with Us?

● Gain practical experience in social media engagement and online community management. ● Opportunities to develop broader experience in content creation and social media management, depending on your skills and interests. ● Develop professional communication and relationship-building skills. ● Learn how to represent a purpose-driven organisation online. ● Gain experience working with Creators, Collaborators, charities and personal causes. ● Strengthen your CV and LinkedIn profile. ● Build your professional network. ● Join a growing, mission-driven organisation. ● Help people use their influence to raise funds and awareness for meaningful causes.

Volunteer Benefits & Rewards

This is currently a volunteer role, offering valuable experience and the opportunity to be part of Influential Stars as the platform grows.

As a registered Collaborator, you may also be eligible for:

● A £25 referral reward when a Collaborator you introduce goes on to refer a Creator who successfully completes their first qualifying campaign. ● A 5% Collaborator Thank You from Influential Stars’ platform share when a Creator you personally introduce successfully completes their first qualifying entry-based campaign.

These payments are provided by Influential Stars and never reduce the guaranteed amount donated to the charity or personal cause. 

Open Studio Mental Health Arts group

We are looking for a creative, enthusiastic Volunteer to support our Mental health art group ‘Open Studios’ for adults on Thursday afternoons.

Open Studios is a friendly space where people can paint, draw or create without pressure.

This is a workshop space to work on your own choice of art. It is not a taught session, but guidance is available from our artists. Aimed at those who are experiencing social isolation or who are working towards healthier mental wellbeing.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll work closely with the Magic Carpet Artist practitioner/s to create a safe and welcoming space for group members to explore their creativity.

Tasks may include:

• Setting up tables and chairs ready for the group
• Making teas and coffee
• Getting out art materials and resources
• Supporting group members to decide what they might like to do
• Being ‘alongside’ group members (this may include spending time working on your own artwork)

We’re looking for someone who:

• Enjoys supporting people to improve their mental health and wellbeing
• Believes in art and creativity as a powerful tool for prompting wellbeing
• Is reliable, friendly, and comfortable working with people
• Cares about community, creativity, and inclusive arts
• Is willing to abide by ECIs code of conduct and safeguarding procedures.

Time commitment

• 2.5 hours per week (1.45pm – 2.15pm)
• Occasional volunteer meetings and training sessions

What you’ll get

• Hands-on experience with a creative arts project
• An opportunity to work alongside an experienced and professional artist practitioner
• Experience working with people with mental health support needs (this may also include Neuro divergence and mild learning disabilities).
• Agreed expenses if applicable
• Tea and lots of gratitude!

For more than a century, the RAF Benevolent Fund has stood beside the RAF Family;
through war and peace, hardship and change. From the first day in uniform to the final
years of life, we have been a constant source of emotional, practical and financial support.
Today, our work reaches serving personnel, veterans, families and the bereaved in more
than 30 countries.
As the demands on the RAF Family grow in complexity and urgency, so too must the resilience
of the charity that serves them. Our ability to provide life-changing support, whether keeping a
family in their home, helping veterans navigate injury or isolation, or walking beside the
bereaved, relies on strong, stable and sustainable income streams. Therefore, we are seeking a
Trustee with significant fundraising expertise to help shape and strengthen our long-term
financial future. The successful candidate will join our diverse and highly skilled Board and
Fundraising, Communications and Engagement Committee to:
• play a key strategic role in supporting our fundraising vision and strategy
• provide strategic input into fundraising plans and campaigns
• support and advise on income generation, donor engagement and partnerships
The full role description can be found on our website here. The role is voluntary, however
reasonable out-of-pocket expenses are paid. We will provide the successful candidate with a
bespoke induction programme and relevant training / development.
Interested?
We would love to hear from you if you have the experience and passion we are seeking.
Please send an up-to-date CV and covering email / letter outlining your background, skills,
experience and interest in the role. Email address and contact details can be found on our website. If you have any questions about the role or would like to have an informal
discussion prior to applying, please contact Lisa (information on website).
We welcome applications from anyone who has the experience we are seeking, irrespective of
background, community, industry or protected characteristics. If you require any reasonable
adjustments as part of your application process, please let us know. You must be eligible to be
a charity trustee under UK law to be considered for this role. We operate safer selection
practices; this will involve the successful candidate being required to have a Disclosure and
Barring Service check.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and this position will remain open until we
have found our ideal candidate. No agencies please.

Newmarket Housing Trust is seeking 2 Trustees (1 x safeguarding and 1 x housing young people). 

Newmarket Housing Trust supports young people and those in financial hardship working in the Horse Racing Industry in Newmarket to access affordable and appropriate housing. 

Many young people across the UK enter the industry each year on apprenticeships, initially completing a residential training course at an education provider, such as the British Racing School, before being employed by a training yard or stud to complete their apprenticeship. It is particularly challenging for these young people under the age of 18 to find accommodation, as they are unable by law to hold a tenancy leaving them vulnerable or unable to enter paid employment in Newmarket. 

Our first project, a 24 room Halls of Residence with live in warden, is currently under construction and due to open August 2027. This accommodation will address many of the issues young people working in horseracing face in Newmarket and will aid the transition from education to employment by providing affordable accommodation, onsite guidance and support and promoting wellbeing. The accommodation will house 16–18-year-olds who have graduated from the British Racing School, National Horseracing College or National Stud and have an offer of employment in Newmarket.

We are looking for 2 x Trustees, with experience in either safeguarding or housing, in particular housing young people. This is an excellent opportunity to get involved with a Charity at the start of its journey, helping to shape policy and strategic direction as we support young people transistioning from education to employment in the Horse Racing Industry.

Please see Job Description for full details.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 24 January 2027. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 25 January and 5 February 2027. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 16 February 2027, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 23 February 2027, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 2 March 2027, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 23 March 2027, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.

Babylon Migrants Project, currently a CIC, is embarking on an exciting journey to become a registered charity. We’re looking for a Finance Advisor to support us through this important transition period, eventually becoming our charity Treasurer. 

Babylon Migrants Project is a grassroots arts organisation led by and for young people from refugee, asylum-seeking and migrant backgrounds. We deliver creative and community-building activities that support displaced young people to build creative skills, confidence and support networks as they navigate life in the UK.

We work with young people aged 16–30 who are facing isolation, systemic barriers and a lack of safe and relaxed spaces. Our work takes place across our two hubs in London and Stoke-on-Trent, where participants take part in creative workshops led by expert facilitators, supported by a welcoming team of staff and volunteers.

Our three key aims are:

• Reducing social isolation amongst young people from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds
• Growing lived experienced leadership across the arts and refugee sectors
• Shaping more informed and human conversations about migration

We are in the process of registering as a charity, which will hopefully unlock vital funding and help us to grow as an organisation, ultimately supporting more young people in need. We are looking for a finance expert who, in addition to contributing generally advisory board (and subsequently, trustee board meetings), can support our ambition by:

• Advising on financial matters, particularly through the transition to becoming a charity
• Supporting us to improve financial processes
• Contributing to our understanding of the risks facing our organisation
• Supporting us to comply with HMRC requirements
• Helping us to create financial forecasts for the future as we develop and expand.

We currently have an Advisory Board that has no legal responsibility, the members of which we hope will stay on as Trustees of the new charity. The expertise represented by the current board are: fundraising, safeguarding, communications, and strategy & business planning. We therefore seek a finance expert to help ensure the success of the transition to charitable status, and who can hold responsibility for finances and risk for the new charity. 

As our organisation is led by lived experience, we would particularly encourage applications from people from migrant or refugee backgrounds. 

Who are we looking for?

• Formal finance qualification
• Experience/understanding of financial forecasting, payroll, corporation tax & charity accounting
• Experience of being on a trustee board before, particularly in a role relating to finance (preferable)
• Lived experience of migration or displacement (preferable)
• Willingness to attend quarterly advisory board meetings (and subsequently, trustee board meetings) as well as provide more ad hoc financial advice to the directors.
• Ability to operate at both strategic and practical levels
• Willingness to speak one's mind, listen to the views of others and constructively challenge
• Willingness to commit the necessary time and effort to being a board member (roughly 1 day per quarter, possibly rising to 2 where required).
• Commitment to our vision and values

As a financial advisor and later trustee with responsibility for finances and risk, you will help ensure the financial sustainability and compliance of the organisation, helping to ensure we can maintain and grow our support for young people from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds, at a time when support is needed more than ever. 

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 24 January 2027. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 25 January and 5 February 2027. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 16 February 2027, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 23 February 2027, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 2 March 2027, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 23 March 2027, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are reimbursed
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.

Chair of Trustees – Hackney Playbus

Are you passionate about giving every child the best start in life?

Hackney Playbus has supported children and families across Hackney for more than 50 years through free, inclusive play sessions, family support and community outreach. We are now looking for an inspiring and collaborative Chair of Trustees to help lead the organisation into its next chapter.

This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside an experienced Board and Co-Directors to shape the strategic direction of a well-established local charity with a strong reputation and growing ambition.

As Chair, you will provide leadership to the Board, ensuring strong governance, thoughtful decision-making and a clear focus on our charitable mission. You will support and challenge the Co-Directors, help build an engaged and diverse Board, and act as an ambassador for Hackney Playbus with partners, funders and the wider community.

We’re looking for someone with strategic leadership experience, excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach. Previous Chair experience is welcome but not essential; we’d also love to hear from people with senior leadership, governance or committee experience who are ready to take on their first Chair role.

This is a voluntary position requiring approximately 1–2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, regular meetings with the Co-Directors and occasional attendance at events and partnership meetings.

Alongside recruiting our new Chair, we are also seeking trustees with expertise in:

• Fundraising and income generation
• Corporate partnerships and employee volunteering
• Communications and marketing
• Advocacy and influencing

By joining Hackney Playbus, you’ll help ensure that children can play, families feel supported, and communities continue to thrive.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences and are particularly keen to hear from people who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Help Make a Difference Every Day

Your time and skills can help change lives. Join DFN as a Volunteer Administrative Assistant and become part of a friendly team supporting an international charity making a lasting impact on vulnerable communities in India.

Based in our Stafford office, you'll help keep our day-to-day operations running smoothly while gaining valuable experience in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Please see the attached Role Description for full details about the role and how to apply.

Role Overview

We are looking for friendly and enthusiastic Activity Volunteers to support our growing range of social groups and activities for people with sight loss.

Our groups provide valuable opportunities for people to socialise, build confidence and enjoy a range of activities, including seated exercise, quizzes, guest speakers and other social and creative activities.

As an Activity Volunteer, you will help create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable, supported and able to get involved.

What You'll Do

• Welcome and support people attending our groups and activities.
• Encourage social interaction and help attendees make connections.
• Provide sighted guidance when required.
• Support staff in welcoming new attendees and helping groups to grow.
• Encourage people to take part in activities.
• Gather ideas and feedback from attendees for future activities and events.
• Complete any training relevant to the role.

What We're Looking For

You don't need previous volunteering experience, but you should be:

• Friendly, approachable and welcoming.
• A good listener and communicator.
• Empathetic and understanding towards people living with sight loss.
• Willing to learn more about sight loss.
• Happy to get involved in a variety of activities.
• Flexible and reliable.
• Committed to the aims and values of Focus Birmingham.

Desirable

It would be beneficial, but not essential, if you have:

• Knowledge or personal or professional experience of sight loss.
• Previous volunteering experience.
• Experience within a social group, community or similar setting.

What You'll Get From Volunteering With Us

As a Focus Birmingham volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful difference to the lives of people with sight loss.
• Gain valuable experience within a charity and community setting.
• Develop your communication, confidence and interpersonal skills.
• Receive relevant training and ongoing support.
• Meet new people and become part of the Focus Birmingham community.
• Build experience that can support your personal and professional development.
• Gain valuable experience to add to your CV and future applications.
• Be part of a friendly and supportive team.
• Be invited to wider Focus Birmingham events and celebrations, including our Focus Conference and Summer Social.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At Focus Birmingham, we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We value the unique experiences, perspectives and strengths that people bring and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

About now-u

now-u is a non-profit that aims to inform, inspire and empower people to help tackle pressing social and environmental issues, in partnership with charities.

People can often feel overwhelmed by large-scale problems and powerless to help, but all of us have the ability to contribute to meaningful change. This is where now-u comes in.

We connect people who are looking for ways to make a difference with impactful organisations and actions, enabling regular learning and action around key local and global issues. By bringing together the actions of individuals across the now-u community, we can help drive positive and lasting change.

About the role

We are looking for a motivated, talented and reliable generalist to join our small non-profit team in the voluntary role of Head of Operations.

You will join the leadership team of our remote charity start-up and work closely with the CEO to help stabilise the organisation’s operations and support its growth.

This is a broad and varied role, suited to someone who is comfortable working across different areas of the organisation, including campaigns, marketing, partnerships, fundraising and core operations.

We are looking for someone who can take a proactive approach, help build and lead small volunteer teams, support the delivery of effective strategies and contribute to high-impact charitable campaigns and future opportunities for now-u.

Strong communication, project management and people skills will be important in helping the organisation deliver its long-term strategy and continue developing sustainably.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations and make adjustments where required.
• Review the effectiveness and efficiency of internal and external operational processes and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Assess team capacity and support the recruitment of new volunteers where needed.
• Support different teams with their day-to-day operations and provide strategic guidance.
• Develop and implement growth strategies in collaboration with the leadership and strategy teams.
• Support efforts to make now-u financially self-sufficient through fundraising and revenue generation.
• Lead core operational areas including financial management, HR and legal compliance.
• Manage, support and motivate volunteers.
• Work closely with the CEO and wider leadership team to support organisational priorities and long-term strategy.

About you

We are looking for someone who is proactive, organised and comfortable taking responsibility across a range of operational areas.

You should be confident working with different people and teams, able to manage competing priorities and comfortable solving problems as they arise.

You will also need to be motivated by now-u’s mission and committed to making a positive difference through social and environmental causes.

Essential skills

• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Good time-management and organisational skills.
• Strong problem-solving ability.
• Ability to communicate clearly and work collaboratively.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently when required.
• Commitment to now-u’s mission and charitable causes.

Desirable experience

• Management experience.
• Strategic planning experience.
• Start-up experience.
• Operations experience.
• Experience managing or supporting volunteers.
• Experience working within a charity or non-profit environment.

Time commitment

8–10 hours per week

Length of commitment

This is a long-term voluntary role, with a minimum commitment of 6 months.

What you will gain

This role offers the opportunity to take on a senior operational position within a small and developing non-profit organisation.

You will have the chance to work closely with the CEO and leadership team, contribute to organisational strategy, support teams across different areas of the charity and play an important role in helping now-u grow and strengthen its operations.

It is a strong opportunity for someone who wants to develop further experience in operations, leadership, strategy and the charity sector while contributing to meaningful social and environmental causes.