The children volunteer roles

The Independent Visitors programme provides every child and young person in care the offer of a regular befriender to provide consistent support, to listen to their thoughts and feelings, and to take part in a range of activities/trips together.

The Early Help Service is looking for volunteers who are passionate about supporting children in care, and can communicate effectively and confidently with young people.

This role involves:

• Attending an initial matching meeting with a young person
• Committing to 18 months of befriending with a child or young person
• Meeting a young person every 2-3 weeks
• Taking part in activities with a child or young person
• Acting in the best interests of a child or young person

Please note that you must be based in the UK to undertake this role.

Trustee

Hours: Minimum commitment is attendance and preparation for four Board meetings each year (some of which will be in the daytime). Trustees are encouraged to also commit to joining one of the sub-committees or time-limited working groups.

Duration: 3-year terms up to a maximum of 9 years which may be extended subject to Board approval. 

Location: Cambridge (Board meetings usually take place in Cambridge but can be attended in person or online).

Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed, and adjustments can be made to support participation.

Centre 33 is an ambitious and growing charity based across Cambridgeshire. We offer a range of high-quality services to young people, including information and support on a “drop in” basis, mental health services, counselling, housing and financial advice, sexual health support and support for young carers.

This is an exciting opportunity to join Centre 33’s board of Trustees, where you can use your experience to guide Centre 33 in its next chapter. 

You do not need previous Trustee experience as we provide a full induction and ongoing training. This is a unique chance to apply your expertise at a strategic level, playing a pivotal role in ensuring we continue delivering high‑quality services to support our aim to help every young person in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough fulfil their potential. If you are committed to making a lasting impact and guiding a charity with a vision for a future where all young people are listened to, respected and supported, this is an incredible opportunity to join us on our mission.

Centre 33 is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applicants from people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, particularly those under-represented on charity boards. This includes people from under-represented ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people and people of all ages and genders. We encourage applications from potential Trustees who are committed to Centre 33 and its values and can exercise good, independent judgement. We are particularly interested in hearing from people with experience in areas such as finance, digital, corporate relations and HR, but we also welcome applicants who bring community knowledge, lived experience, or other skills that would strengthen the Board. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the communities we serve.

We recognise that some people may not meet every requirement listed but encourage you to apply if you believe you could contribute to the work of Centre 33.

The Trustee role will ensure that Centre 33:

• Has a vision for how it will benefit the public – in our case, the young people of Cambridgeshire.
• Has a well thought out plan and budget to deliver the vision. 
• Spends its funds to deliver the plan and is financially stable. 
• Is well-managed and has policies in place to guide staff. 
• Operates legally. 

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all employees, volunteers and Trustees to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this post. 

Closing date: 24th April 2026

Interviews will be arranged for week commencing 4th May 2026.

If you require the application information in another format or need adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

You will work to Centre 33’s values of being young person-led, collaborative, inclusive and striving for excellence.

Volunteer & Fundraise with Becky’s Child Foundation
Are you passionate about making a real difference in the world? Join Becky’s Child Foundation and become part of a growing community dedicated to transforming lives in underserved communities in Uganda.
We are inviting individuals, teams, and corporate partners to volunteer and fundraise in support of our impactful programs. Whether you are experienced in fundraising or simply have the heart to help, there is a place for you.
What We Do
At Becky’s Child Foundation, we focus on:

Kidney Medical Camps – Providing life-saving screening, treatment, and awareness in hard-to-reach communities

Education Support – Equipping children with scholastic materials and opportunities for a brighter future

Fighting Hunger – Delivering food aid to vulnerable families and children

Empowering Persons with Disabilities – Promoting inclusion, dignity, and access to opportunities

Your Role as a Volunteer Fundraiser
We believe everyone has unique strengths. As a volunteer, you can choose the area that best matches your passion and expertise:

Organize fundraising events

Run online or workplace campaigns

Advocate for a specific cause (health, education, disability, or hunger relief)

Partner with your company or community to raise awareness and funds

Why Join Us?

Make a tangible impact in real communities

Use your skills for a meaningful cause

Be part of a mission that brings hope, dignity, and opportunity to those in need

Our Vision
We envision a world where no child or elder suffers from poverty, hopelessness, or lack of opportunity. Through compassion, education, and empowerment, we strive to create a future filled with dignity, love, and hope for all.
Get Involved Today
Choose your cause. Use your voice. Change lives.
Join us in bringing light where it is needed most.

Are you a safeguarding professional looking to make a tangible difference in the lives of young Londoners? By joining our board, you will help shape safeguarding strategy, strengthen our organisational culture and ensure that CYP continues to provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment for all its members.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safeguarding Oversight: Provide strategic oversight of safeguarding and child protection across the organisation and report to the Board.
• Policy & Compliance: Ensure safeguarding and child protection policies are up to date, effectively implemented, and meet all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Advice & Support: Act as a point of guidance for the Board and staff on safeguarding matters, including responding appropriately to concerns.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR 

We need someone who is organised, communicative, and shares our values.

• Safeguarding Experience: Background in safeguarding, child protection, education, youth work, social care, or a related field.
• Local: Someone who understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing young people in London today.
• Good Judgement: Ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion and confidence.
• Commitment: A strong commitment to keeping young people safe and helping a small, high-impact organisation grow responsibly.

WHY JOIN US?

• Make an Impact: Directly influence the success of a project that changes lives in your community.
• Governance Experience: Build your CV with high-level Board experience.
• Networking: Connect with a diverse group of passionate professionals and community leaders.

Be a hero to a young person in care!

Are you looking for a meaningful, long-term volunteering role where you can make a positive difference in a young person’s life?

If yes, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

We’re seeking compassionate, reliable adults to become Independent Visitors - volunteer mentors and trusted friends to children and young people in care.

What is an Independent Visitor?

An Independent Visitor (IV) is a volunteer befriender and mentor who visits a young person in care once a month, usually on weekends, to enjoy fun, supportive activities together. As an IV, you’ll be a consistent, caring adult outside their professional network - someone who chooses to be there, just for them.

This is a long-term role, and we ask volunteers to commit to at least two years to help build a strong, stable relationship.

We are currently prioritising and seeking applications from volunteers based in the Croydon or Kent area where we have a greater need for volunteers to support childen and young people. 

Why it matters

Young people in care often face instability and frequent change. Having a consistent adult who listens, encourages and simply spends time with them can be life changing.

“My IV is the one person who’s always there for me. They make me feel like I matter.” Young Person in Care.

Who can volunteer?

You don’t need previous experience - just the right values and commitment. We’re looking for caring people who are:

• Friendly and approachable
• Patient, empathetic and consistent
• A good listener
• Committed to visiting once a month for at least two years
• Willing to complete training and safeguarding checks

We particularly welcome applications from male volunteers and individuals from Black, Asian and other underrepresented communities.

What will you be doing?

As an Independent Visitor, you’ll:

• Meet your young person once a month for activities like going to the cinema, bowling, exploring parks or just having a chat
• Suggest age-appropriate outings based on their interests
• Keep in touch between visits with a weekly call or message (if they’d like)
• Occasionally join in on group events
• Create meaningful, lasting memories

Please note that all travel and activity expenses will be covered.

Training & ongoing support

Before you start, we’ll provide:

• Full initial training
• Ongoing support and one-to-one supervision
• Access to additional training through Southwark’s volunteer resources

Recruitment timeline

• Applications reviewed on an ongoing basis.
• Interviews: To be confirmed.

Ready to make a difference?

If you’re looking for a rewarding, long-term volunteering opportunity where you can support a young person one to one and help them thrive, we’d love to receive an application from you today!

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistants to support our face-to-face study programme called ‘Get Ready for School.’

This programme is attended by young people out of education and is based in Streatham on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Core delivery of the programme includes English, Maths, Digital skills, complemented by Reading and Writing for Pleasure.

We also run Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon classes open to all existing CARAS youth community members, 4:30pm to 6pm. These classes tend to be larger and have a large range of language levels. 

Volunteers in this role are required to commit to at least one 2-hour session per week, during these times:

• Monday 10 am to 3pm

• Tuesday 2pm to 6pm 

• Wednesday 11am to 6pm

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within ESOL classes;

• Help young people to build confidence in digital literacy;

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;

• Engaging learners in informal conversations or games during breaks to help them practice their conversational English.

• Checking the session plan aims with the lead teacher and assisting learners achieve them;

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project;

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements 

Essential: 

• To be 18 years or older;

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (travel and food expenses can be reimbursed);

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds;

• To be reliable and punctual. We ask volunteers to commit to at least one class every week for a minimum of 4 months. If you are unable to attend a class due to a planned holiday, you must inform the program lead in advance. 

• Excellent communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;

• The ability to volunteer on Monday mornings and Wednesday afternoons/evenings during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum seeker or refugee status

• *Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check (DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a Caras community member who is more recently arrived in the UK);

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

*DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK. 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering 
   

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with a member of the CARAS learning staff team and a community member. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP! 
 

 All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our partner is a small Suffolk based charity working to create a Creative Youth Hub, Nursery and Playscape for children and young people in the local area, following the loss of the former youth centre.

The Treasurer will hold the Board to account for the charity’s finances and help maintain a clear and transparent financial framework. Working closely with fellow Trustees and the wider team, you will oversee budgeting and reporting, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and support financial planning as the project develops. The role will involve managing multiple income streams, including grants and donations.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant or experienced finance professional with strong financial management skills and the confidence to advise fellow Trustees. Experience of charity finance and governance would be helpful but is not essential.

This is a rewarding opportunity to support a community led capital project with significant local impact. The role is expected to require around 1 to 3 hours per week initially, increasing as the project moves forward, with attendance at regular Board meetings either in person or via Zoom.

_______________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website

We are looking for volunteers (21yrs+) to befriend a child or young person in care or leaving care. To provide opportunities for them to develop a meaningful. long-term relationship.

·W H O  A R E  B L G C ?

At BLGC we welcome over 4,000 young people through our doors every year. Now one of the largest youth clubs in the UK with a state-of-art base, Infinity, we have something for everyone including sports, arts, mentoring and community outreach work as well as some extras for those who need it most.

W E  A R E  L O O K I N G  F O R  S O M E O N E  W H O

Can establish a positive, stable and long-term relationship with a young person.

Is reliable, non-judgemental, a good listener and able to engage with a child/young person.

Can promote the young persons developmental, social, emotional, cultural and religious needs.

Can value and respect the wishes and feelings of the child or young person and where necessary can advocate on their behalf.

Can adhere to policies and procedures at all times with emphasis on confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety and relevant local authority procedures.

Is 21+ years old Has a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

W H A T  C A N  I  E X P E C T  TOB E D O I N G ?

Meeting with the young person on a regular basis in the community for a couple of hours.

Engage with the young person in recreational/educational and fun activities. Help them to explore new experiences to build their self-confidence and self-esteem.

Act as a positive role model for the young person.

W H A T  A R E  T H E  B E N E F I T S

 You will receive a thorough induction programme and training for the role.

You will receive quarterly supervisions and ongoing support from a member of the team.

You will make a real difference to a young persons life.

You will have opportunities to meet with other volunteers and young people.

Out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

Do you want to make a difference to a young person’s life?
Do you have 1- 4 hours per month to spare?
We urgently require volunteer befrienders to be a positive role models for young people living in care. So why not volunteer as a mentor/befriender for NYAS as an Independent Visitor for children and young people in care.

As a volunteer you will:

* Have fun, take young people on outings and maybe share a hobby, sport or interest
* Offer support and a listening ear and be a positive influence in a young person’s life and help build self- esteem and confidence
* You don’t need any special qualifications

We are looking for reliable and dependable people from all walks of life.

We will provide training and on-going support. We will pay expenses to a set limit.

Here is what some of our young people and volunteers have to say about this rewarding role:

I like how my Independent Visitor isn’t anything to do with social services and is here to support me not to judge.

They have boosted my confidence, now I feel like when I go places I can just relax and have fun.

My young person always looks forward to me coming, they have had such a disjointed life, I am a stable figure in their life and this has to be important for them as everything else changes around them a lot.

If you feel you would suit this role, please get in touch.

Do you want to help the youth of today become the lifesavers of tomorrow? We're on a mission to teach young people across the country how to save lives. It's a chance for them to learn important first aid skills in a fun, friendly, and safe environment. 

St John is one of the largest youth organisations in the country and many of our young volunteers go onto careers in health and/or social care.

Being a youth volunteer helps young people develop skills and confidence that go on to help them with further education and university applications. To do this we need dedicated and enthusiastic youth helpers. Do you have 2 hours in an evening, once a week during school term times to join our fun loving youth team supporting and developing our young inspirational volunteers? No matter what your interests: Crafting, Singing/Dancing, History, Science or caring for people/animals, we welcome you to join us. 

Full training is provided. This is a great opportunity to develop your own skills, knowledge and build on your CV. All whilst having fun, making friends and supporting your community. 

Our Badger are children aged 5-10 years of age and the Cadets are 11 – 17

If you’d like to know more about volunteering or would just like to chat to someone who does, get in touch. 

As a youth helper there is a requirement for you to attend weekly meetings, at least 2 per month, during term time. 

Must be able to attend meetings and attend courses when they become available Complete any mandatory training required for role: Introduction to Safeguarding Level 1 GDPR Youth Helper Induction Workbook Safeguarding level 2

The closing date for this advert will be 03/04/2026

Interview - dates and time, locations to be advised

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Volunteer Researcher to support our Corporate Fundaising team. Your role will be pivotal in identifying and researching prospects and Charity of The Year Partnerships who align with our mission. You will help us grow our pipeline of supporters and inform personalised, strategic approaches that lead to meaningful engagement and transformational support.

About Us:

Rays of Sunshine is dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill young people and their families by granting wishes and providing ongoing support in hospital and within the community. We are seeking a motivated volunteer to support our major gifts team by conducting research and helping to build our partnerships pipeline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and research prospective corporate partners, with a focus on Charity of the Year opportunities

• Build and maintain a structured prospect pipeline to support new business development

• Research CSR strategies, ESG priorities, funding history, key decision-makers and employee engagement programmes

• Strong research and analytical skills

• Commercial awareness and understanding of corporate partnerships

• Excellent attention to detail

• Confident using LinkedIn, Companies House, Charity Commission and online research tools

• Self-motivated and comfortable working independently

What You’ll Gain:

• The opportunity to directly contribute to securing high-value corporate partnerships

• Insight into charity new business and pipeline strategy

• Experience working with a dynamic, ambitious team

• A chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families

• A reference upon successful completion of your volunteering

Zambia Orphans Aid UK (ZOA-UK) is looking for part-time volunteers to support our Digital & Communications work. The ideal candidates will have passion for all things digital and an interest in international development. We are seeking people who have good digital understanding, a flare for design and experience of creating social media content across a range of platforms.

You will possess a positive attitude together with a proactive approach to problem solving. You will be home-based and have the freedom to set your own hours, so self-motivation is essential.

Volunteers support ZOA-UK’s communications and digital activities to increase the reach, profile and influence of the charity and build our brand as a leading charity supporting orphans and vulnerable children in Africa. The volunteers will support the small team to create a cohesive and effective approach to delivering our messages to target audiences, driving supporter engagement and donations, and raising awareness of the needs of orphans and vulnerable children in Zambia. 

Range of likely duties to include:

1. Write up case studies and stories of change and ensure they and accompanying photographs and video footage are stored securely in our image and case study database

2. Help build our social media activity to achieve measurable outcomes in terms of raising awareness, and increasing numbers of supporters who convert to become donors

3. Create and schedule inspiring content for social media channels – Instagram, facebook, X, linkedin, ticktock etc

4. Create blogs, infographics and other content for our wordpress website, supporter newsletters and annual report

Do you want to help the youth of today become the lifesavers of tomorrow? We're on a mission to teach young people across the country how to save lives. It's a chance for them to learn important first aid skills in a fun, friendly, and safe environment. 

St John is one of the largest youth organisations in the country and many of our young volunteers go onto careers in health and/or social care.

Being a youth volunteer helps young people develop skills and confidence that go on to help them with further education and university applications. To do this we need dedicated and enthusiastic youth helpers. Do you have 2 hours in an evening, once a week during school term times to join our fun loving youth team supporting and developing our young inspirational volunteers? No matter what your interests: Crafting, Singing/Dancing, History, Science or caring for people/animals, we welcome you to join us. 

Full training is provided. This is a great opportunity to develop your own skills, knowledge and build on your CV. All whilst having fun, making friends and supporting your community. 

Our Badger programme gives children aged 5-10 years of age the chance to learn first aid, play games and develop a wide range of skills in a safe and supportive environment. We currently have vacancies in the following areas: Monday evenings South Normanton Tuesday evenings Hucknall If you’d like to know more about volunteering or would just like to chat to someone who does, get in touch. 

As a youth helper there is a requirement for you to attend weekly meetings, at least 2 per month, during term time. The Badgers meet on Tuesday evenings at Hucknall. Relevant training for the role will be given.

The closing date for this advert will be 31/05/2026

Interview - dates and time, locations to be advised