Training development volunteer roles

Hertfordshire’s Family Centre Service brings children’s centres, health visiting and school nursing together, to provide a more joined-up service for children, young people, and their families.

The centres deliver a range of support groups and activities for children and their families to help them be healthy, grow and develop. To make it easy for families to fit sessions and services around their busy lives, access is available from any Hertfordshire Family centre. We have locations across the entire county so please do enquire ensuring you have provided your postcode. 

Main Tasks/ Responsibilities/ Activities

To support early years sessions for families with children aged 0–5, including those with SEND and emerging needs, by promoting engagement and child development through group activities.

Key Responsibilities:

· Welcome and engage families in a warm, friendly manner

· Support the delivery of structured and free-play indoor and outdoor activities

· Encourage participation and interaction between parents/carers and children

· Promote children’s development through praise and positive reinforcement

· Work collaboratively with staff to support inclusive practice

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

· Enjoy working with children and families.

· Interest in child development

· Warm, approachable, and good at communicating with people of all ages.

· Reliable, punctual, and able to work well in a team.

· Respectful, inclusive, and sensitive to the needs of diverse families.

· Able to follow guidance and instructions from session leads

Training / Support

· A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided.

· Requirement to undertake One YMCA online training courses

· To understand and implement One YMCA’s policies.

· Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings

· Access to organisational events throughout the year including Socials, Conferences and Training opportunities. 

Additional Information

· Undergo enhanced DBS check

· X2 References required

· Undertake additional training as and when required

· We offer to pay volunteers’ “out of pocket” expenses within agreed guidelines

Our shops are a hive of activity and the heart of the local community. They raise funds to support our vital work and provide a place to find out more about how we help older people in the local area.

Our Stock Preparation Volunteers always enjoy being part of our shop teams; making new friends and helping the charity to maximise the income from the amazing items people donate to us.

In this role you will usually be working in our donation sorting area, which is off the shop floor. Here you will help the team process, prepare and price the items people donate.

We receive hundreds of bags of clothing, bric-a-brac, toys, games and all sorts of items every week. You will help us to turn these into vital funds to support our work.

After full training you will be part of our processing team; sorting through the donated items, identifying those which we should sell, preparing them and pricing before they are put onto the shop floor.

You may have a particular area of experience, such as clothing, books or antiques. Your skills and knowledge will help us to gain the best value for each item and some of our volunteers even coordinate entire sections, such as a book rooms within our stores.

When people come in to donate their items you will be helping to thank them for their support. Many items are Gift Aided so when processing the items you will ensure that Gift Aid labels are attached so that we can gain this additional vital income.

You will help to make our products look amazing; steaming clothes (if this is your area) and helping to clean and make every item look great and ready for sale.

It would be ideal if you could volunteer at least one shift a week, which is about three hours but we're also happy to have more flexible times. No special skills are needed as we will show you what to do and will provide all the training you need.

It’s really easy to get your volunteering started, if you're over 16 years old, please apply now!
We currently need volunteers for: Monday, Wednesday, Fridays and weekends.

Do you enjoy greeting people and making them feel welcome? Recently retired and want to give a few hours for a good cause? Or perhaps you’re starting out on your employment journey but need experience to help you land a future job? Becoming a Volunteer Retail Assistant is the perfect opportunity for you!

As one of our valued Volunteer Retail Assistants in our Acomb shop, you will be at the heart of our retail experience, welcoming members of the public and serving at the till. It will be a varied role with no two shifts being the same. From helping someone find a perfect gift or finishing touch to an outfit, to putting through cash and card sales at the till, we’d love you to come and join our busy, friendly shop.

Volunteer Retail Assistants will be located primarily on the shop floor, dealing with queries, pricing items, using the till, and ensuring our shops are the best on the high street. Without you, we couldn't provide needed support to the York Animal Home, so we want to ensure you feel welcomed and supported. You will receive full training in all retail areas, with continued development available in your volunteer journey. If you’re looking to gain confidence to get back into work, or simply want to find somewhere to make connections, we have a role for you.

Every single penny raised in our charity shop goes directly to the York Animal Home and gives vital funds to ensure they can continue helping animals in need. Without your help our shops could not run; volunteers are what make us special and we would love to have you join our team.

Your duties:

These may involve (on any given day):

• Giving a warm and friendly welcome as people enter our shop
• Helping with queries about items
• Putting cash and card sales through our till
• Engaging visitors about our charity and promoting the York Animal Home and our links to it
• Processing Gift Aid donations
• Restocking our shelves and making them look eye-catching

And much more…

If you’re interested please don’t hesitate to hit the apply button. Alternatively if you’d like to find out more, please email our Acomb manager, Kleo, who will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.

We operate a volunteer led scheme, where our minimum requirement is 2 hours a week, and the maximum is whatever you would like it to be! If you are looking to add experience to your CV we ask that you commit to six months with us.

Due to insurance restrictions we are sorry that we cannot accept anyone under the age of 16.

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Researching valuable and vintage stock.
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
• Describing items for online listings.
• Preparing items for postage and dispatch .
• 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

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

Disclaimer

Additional information: - We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs, please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments. - We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

Role Title: Volunteer Befriender
Location: Various locations in Ealing
Time Commitment: 1–4 hours per week (flexible)
Reports To: Volunteer Coordinator/Service Lead
Duration: Minimum 6-month commitment preferred
Expenses: Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed

Purpose of the Role:
To reduce social isolation and improve emotional wellbeing by offering regular companionship and support to individuals in the community. The role also provides an opportunity for unpaid carers to have a short break or period of respite while their loved one is engaged and supported.

Key Responsibilities:
• Offer friendly conversation and a listening ear through regular visits or phone calls
• Build and maintain a respectful, trusting relationship
• Encourage social confidence and community engagement
• Report any concerns or relevant information to the project lead
• Attend initial training and ongoing support sessions
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold safeguarding procedures

Ideal Qualities and Skills:
• A good listener with strong communication skills
• Kind, patient, and empathetic
• Dependable and consistent
• Respectful of boundaries and confidentiality
• Open-minded and inclusive

What You’ll Gain:
• A rewarding opportunity to make a positive difference
• Experience in a supportive and meaningful volunteer role
• Ongoing training and support
• Development of interpersonal skills
• Being part of a valued community team

Additional Information:
This role requires two references and a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. Full training is provided.

Come and join us at our Charity Shop in Langney Road, Eastbourne.

Our shops are a hive of activity and the heart of the local community. They raise funds to support our vital work and provide a place for local people to find out more about how we help older people in their area. Our volunteers always enjoy being part of our shop teams; chatting to our customers about the fabulous items we sell and telling them about the fantastic work that we do.

As a Customer Service Volunteer you will get the chance to meet new people and make friends, plus play a vital role in helping to raise funds to support local older people.

You will be working on the shop floor as the welcoming face of our charity. Serving customers with a smile, using the till (don't worry, we will show you how) and handling money and sales.

When people come in to donate items you will be thanking them for their support and helping them to complete Gift Aid signups on our Gift Aid system.

You will help to make our shops look amazing; putting out items that the sorting teams have prepared, helping with merchandising, labelling and ensuring the shop is clean and always looking its' best.

You will need to be ok using a touch screen device as our tills run on a tablet, though we will always provide full training and some time for you to get used to using this first.

Lastly, you may have people enquiring about our work, or asking for help and we will provide you with all the details of where to refer them to within the charity.

We currently need volunteers on Monday (1pm-4.30pm), Tuesday (1pm-4.30pm), Weds (9.30 am-1pm). No special skills are needed as we will show you what to do and will provide all the training you need.

It’s really easy to get your volunteering started, if you're over 16 years old, just apply now!

Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Training for role - details of course including dates, time & venue tbc.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Could you spare just 1 hour a week to make a real difference in Sandwell?

Age UK Sandwell is looking for a friendly Activity Group Volunteer to help run a weekly social group for older people at Hamstead Library, Great Barr.

• Tuesdays, 2–3pm
• Help people stay active, connected and supported
• Training and support provided

Bring your listening ear, positive attitude and a caring approach then we’ll help with the rest.

For more detailed information, please see below:

About the Service

The Wellbeing Team at Age UK Sandwell supports people aged 50+ to improve their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing through social, physical and community activities. The service helps reduce loneliness and isolation by encouraging community connections, offering one-to-one support, befriending and signposting, and working with volunteers and local partners to help older people stay active, independent and connected.

About the Role

The volunteer for this social group will be responsible for facilitating weekly activity groups for older people. Specific tasks may include:

• To keep a record of attendance
• To facilitate the session on a weekly basis
• To prepare any resources and equipment required to deliver the group
• To report any concerns to your line manager
• To attend team meetings/supervision when required
• To help promote the group and encourage attendance from older people in the community

You will be supported by a staff member in the initial weeks to prepare you to run the group.

Personal qualities and skills most suited to this role

· Good listening and communication skills

· Patient, caring and non-judgemental approach

· Relevant skills, knowledge or interest in the activity

· Commitment to supporting the wellbeing of older people

· Reliable, flexible and positive attitude

Training

· Core training (including Safeguarding, GDPR, Health & Safety, and Equality & Diversity) will be provided digitally or in print as part of your volunteer registration pack.

· Role-specific training will be agreed with your line manager and delivered through a mix of digital and face-to-face sessions.

· You will also complete the Age UK Sandwell induction programme and any additional training relevant to your role.

As a Volunteer Musician, you will bring joy, comfort, and connection to the people we support, by sharing live music. Your performances will provide meaningful engagement, foster a sense of community, and enhance emotional and mental well-being.

• Play musical instruments or sing for small groups or individuals.

Tailor performances to the preferences and needs of the people we support (e.g., familiar songs or soothing melodies).

• Encourage the people we support to sing along or participate in simple ways (e.g., clapping, tapping rhythms).

• Create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere during your sessions.

• Adjust your style or volume to suit the home setting and individuals’ sensitivities.

• Be attentive to the emotional and physical responses of individuals during performances.

• Work with care home staff to schedule performances and understand the unique needs of the residents.

• Communicate any concerns or noteworthy interactions with staff.

Skills required

• Proficiency in at least one musical instrument or singing.

• Warm, friendly, and compassionate demeanour.

• Patience and adaptability to engage with people of varying abilities and preferences.

• A genuine interest in contributing to the well-being of the people we support.

To ensure the safety of the people we support, we require a DBS check and two satisfactory references before a volunteer role is confirmed. As you will be volunteering directly with vulnerable individuals, you will also be required to undertake safeguarding training, as well as any training which is specific to the role.

Benefits

• This is a fantastic opportunity to give something positive back to society and have a direct impact on people’s lives.  

• Through this volunteer role, you can gain experience and develop your skill set. On top of this, SeeAbility provides training which could be added to your CV.

• Volunteers can claim travel expenses.

About Us 

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Youth Helper work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

The Cadet Group meets on a Wednesday evening 1900 - 2030.

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Training for role - All Training courses will be provided, including eLearning, details of course including dates, time & venue TBC.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/07/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Our Shop Volunteers raise money for the people we support with a Learning Disability. Do you have a few hours a week to spare and share your time with us?

Our retail roles are varied and fun. You could be sorting donations from the public, dressing our window or serving customers on the till. There are many people from different walks of life and it's a great way to get practical experience and to meet new people.

This role will take place on a weekly basis for a few hours We will try our best to be flexible around the best time for you, but also need to consider the store opening times and volunteer rota. It could be a weekday or weekend, morning or afternoon, our stores are usually open 7 days a week. We’d appreciate any time that you can spare.

Whilst in the store, you will help with activities based on the needs of the Store Manager. 

**Tasks you could get up to whilst volunteering could include:**

- Serving customers on the till
- Taking stock donations from the public
- Tagging and steaming stock for the shop floor
- Dressing the window displays
- Asking people to join us as a volunteer

**As a Retail Volunteer you will be:**

- Friendly and Approachable
- Reliable, Kind and Patient
- A good communicator (including listener)
- Willing to volunteer within guidelines and to take direction where necessary
- Accepting of others who might be different to yourself

**As a Mencap volunteer you will:**

- Make new friends and raise important funds for people with a learning disability
- Get reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in line with our policy e.g. travel
- Receive full Training and support
- Volunteer alongside other people
- Have a chance to give back your local community

**About Mencap**
Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.

We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Do you have a passion for the outdoors and personal experience of the benefits that physical activity, nature connection and being with others can have on a person’s wellbeing? If so, we’d love to hear from you!

We’re excited to be recruiting for our next round of Volunteer Activity Leads with Flourish in Nature. This project aims to improve mental and physical wellbeing by encouraging people to (re)connect with nature and the world around them through in-house, peer/volunteer-led activities as well as outsourced activities from local providers. The project supports social inclusion, personal and community development, and boosts people’s sense of belonging and feelings of personal achievement.

These roles are ideally suited to people with lived experience of mental health or addiction recovery. Full training is provided, including recognised First Aid certificates. You would be joining a supportive, recovery focussed, community development team. Opportunities are also available to combine this role with ‘in-house’ activity support such as Flourish Recovery Cafes and creative groups.

Tasks you may be involve in:

· Promote Flourish in Nature activities

· Identify potential community activities

· Be a point of contact for community activity providers

· Risk assess group activities and complete risk assessment paperwork

· Attend activities in a position of responsibility, assessing whether it is safe

· for attendee’s to participate in the activity

· Alongside other Activity Lead Volunteers, run and supervise activities

· Identify and report any concerns, risks, or incidents to Community Development Leads or duty managers.

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy:

· Discounts from various schemes

· Training and personal development

· A chance to make a real difference in people’s lives

· Free induction and role-specific training

· Support from experienced staff and regular supervision

· Opportunities to meet new people and develop your confidence

· Reimbursement for travel and agreed expenses

· Valuable experience that can support your personal or career development

Our shops help raise lots of money for us. It’s always lovely chatting to our customers about the fabulous items we sell and telling them about the fantastic work that we do. As a volunteer you will get the chance to meet new people and make friends, plus be part of an amazing team of volunteers.

There’s so much for you to get stuck into when volunteering in our shops. We have several different positions available.

Stock Sorting Assistant: We get lots of donations so you will be rolling up your sleeves in the back room where you will be receiving, sorting, and pricing donations, predominantly Bric-a-Brac, Books and Clothes, it's always exciting when one of our volunteers spots a real gem.

Furniture Store Assistant: The role will also include assisting with moving furniture around the store, assembling & dismantling beds, and other flat packed furniture, and getting to express your creative side, by making attractive room displays.

It would be ideal if you could volunteer at least one shift a week, which is about four hours but we're also happy to have more flexible times.

No special skills are needed as we will show you what to do and will provide all the training you need. But if you have any experience or particular interest tell us, it may come in useful. It’s really easy to get your volunteering started, if you're over 16 years old, just click on ‘Apply’ and get filling in your details!

We currently need volunteers for Mondays (am/pm), Wednesdays (pm) and Friday (pm). Please get in touch if you would like to become part of our amazing Volunteer Team!

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

The Badger Sett currently meet on a Friday evening 1800-1945 at a School in Folkestone.

• Training for role - All training courses will be provided, including eLearning. Details of course including dates, time & venue. tbc

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/07/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below: