Volunteer communications volunteer roles

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Our volunteers are a fundamental part of our shops. Any time which they volunteer at our shops, help us be there for more people who are experiencing a mental health problem. 

About the volunteer role

To provide our volunteers with opportunities to gain a variety of skills and experience, we offer them a range of volunteer roles to choose from, which include:

• Stock preparation volunteer
• Volunteer shop sales assistant
• Volunteer stock generation assistant
• Volunteer window dresser/Merchandiser
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (antiques and collectables)
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (books and entertainment)
• Housekeeping volunteer

Key tasks

There is a variety of tasks within the above mentioned roles that our volunteers get involved with, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers with their purchases, providing them with great customer service and a delightful shopping experience
• Receiving donated items from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated items for sale
• Creating visually appealing window and in-store displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, clean and coordinated
• Processing sales and serving at the till
• Signing up gift aid donors
• Stock rotation
• Identifying special or valuable items within donated stock

About you

• Passionate about customer service 
• Good communication skills 
• Friendly and helpful
• Respectful of others and their diversity

Experience & skills you will gain

• Experience of working as part of a team
• Retail experience 
• Stock organisation
• Selling skills 
• Customer service skills 

Our Commitment

We are committed to becoming actively anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services. We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.

Make a meaningful difference by becoming a friendly visitor for a gentleman in his early 70s who, while non-verbal, is active, engaged, and enjoys simple pleasures. He loves doing jigsaws, reading gardening magazines, and watching television. This is a “stop and stay” role where you’ll spend relaxed, quality time together helping with a jigsaw, sharing quiet moments, and offering companionship.

This is a Stop and Stay visit role, meaning that the person you’ll be visiting might have some verbal communication skills or they use sounds and/or facial/body expressions to communicate with you.fr

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tend to be around half an hour to an hour long.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat
• Checking in on their well- being
• A craft activity at home
• Reading a book/magazine together

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

**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

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

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

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

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

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

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

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

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

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

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

About You

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

About Mind Retail

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

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

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

Our Commitment

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

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

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

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

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

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

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

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

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

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

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

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

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

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

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

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

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

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

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

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

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

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

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

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

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

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

About You

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

About Mind Retail

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

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

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

Our Commitment

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

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

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

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

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

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

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

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

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

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

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

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

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

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

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

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

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Direct Reports: Fundraising Managers

Team Structure: Fundraising Team 

Location: Remote, UK-based

Time Commitment: 12 months minimum | Part-time | Flexible hours

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Head of Fundraising to lead and develop our fundraising strategy at a crucial time in Youth Advantage UK's growth. Reporting to the CEO, you’ll oversee a multi-disciplinary fundraising team and play a key role in shaping our strategy to secure the resources needed to support our mission.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced fundraising leader who is ready to take on a leadership position, mentor a growing team, and make a tangible impact on the lives of those we serve. You will be instrumental in driving fundraising across diverse channels, from major donor cultivation to digital fundraising and events.

Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role, with no financial compensation or future paid opportunities attached. We encourage you to apply if you have relevant/transferrable skills for this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and Execute Fundraising Strategy – Develop and drive a comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes grant fundraising and aligns with the organisation’s mission and financial goals.
• Manage Fundraising Teams – Provide leadership to Fundraising Managers and the Partnerships Lead, ensuring successful delivery across all fundraising channels.
• Build Relationships with Major Donors – Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key donors, stakeholders, and potential partners to secure long-term support.
• Oversee Fundraising Events – Lead and support the planning, execution, and evaluation of fundraising events that engage donors and raise critical funds.
• Digital Fundraising – Oversee online giving campaigns and strategies to increase digital fundraising engagement and revenue.
• Reporting and Budgeting – Monitor fundraising progress, ensuring targets are met, and provide regular reports to the CEO and Board.
• Team Development – Mentor and coach the fundraising team, ensuring they are motivated, developed, and equipped to excel in their roles.
• Strategic Partnerships – Build and nurture community partnerships that expand our reach and increase funding.
• Brand Advocacy – Act as a passionate ambassador for the charity, enhancing its visibility in the charity sector and promoting its mission.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a dynamic leader with the skills and experience to make a positive impact. You’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• Proven experience in fundraising, with a strong track record across digital campaigns, corporate partnerships and grant fundraising.
• Leadership experience in managing and developing fundraising teams or volunteers.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to think big and execute effectively in a resource-constrained environment.
• Hands-on experience in managing the day-to-day operations of fundraising campaigns while being able to step back and think at a strategic level.
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and engage diverse stakeholders.
• A passion for the cause – a genuine belief in the mission of Youth Advantage UK and a commitment to making a difference.
• Familiarity with digital fundraising tools and social media platforms for promoting campaigns (desirable but not essential).
• Previous experience in volunteer-led organisations is a bonus.
• Remote working experience or comfort with managing teams virtually.

What You’ll Gain

• A chance to lead a national HR function with real-world complexity and purpose.

• The opportunity to mentor and develop emerging HR talent.

• Practical experience shaping HR strategy within the third sector.

• Recognition through:

o LinkedIn testimonial and reference

o A public thank you post

o Permission to list Youth Advantage UK as an employer on your CV/LinkedIn

o A written reference upon completion of your commitment

Important Information

This role is completely voluntary. There is no financial payment, benefits, or employment status. It is ideal for experienced HR professionals looking to give back, stay active in leadership, or contribute to a values-led organisation in a meaningful way.

Apply Now

If you're passionate about fundraising and want to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. Help us unlock new opportunities for Youth Advantage UK and join our dedicated team of changemakers today.

About this Role:

Time Commitment: Approximately 10-15 hours a week

Engagement Duration: Minimum 3-month commitment (renewable upon mutual agreement)

Schedule: Flexible, with availability for at least one weekly team check-in

Mode of Engagement: Fully remote; virtual collaboration via Slack, and Google Meet

Our Mission

Solution Community's mission is to bridge the gap between skilled professionals and underserved communities by harnessing the power of collaborative volunteerism to drive sustainable social impact. We mobilize talent, technology, and purpose — bringing the best of the professional world to bear on the challenges faced by those who need it most.

Our Vision

Solution Community envisions a world where every community has access to the talent, technology, and tools needed to thrive — powered by a global network of purpose-driven professionals. We aspire to a future in which geography, resources, or institutional capacity are no longer barriers to excellence, and where skilled volunteerism is recognized as a cornerstone of sustainable community development.

Role Overview

The Lead Automation Analyst is a strategic volunteer role within Solution Community's Technology & Innovation team. In this capacity, the successful volunteer will lead efforts to identify, design, and implement automation solutions that streamline internal processes and meaningfully enhance operational efficiency for both Solution Community and its network of partner organizations. This is a leadership-level engagement that calls for a practitioner who can see the big picture while also rolling up their sleeves to architect and deploy practical automation at scale.

Working cross-functionally alongside technology, operations, and program teams, the Lead Automation Analyst will develop and drive intelligent automation strategies using industry-leading platforms and tools, including robotic process automation (RPA), workflow automation systems, and AI-assisted tooling. This volunteer will serve as a trusted advisor, a hands-on builder, and a mentor, shaping how Solution Community leverages technology to amplify its mission and extend its impact across every community it serves.

Key Responsibilities

Automation Strategy & Leadership

· Lead the development of a comprehensive automation roadmap aligned with Solution Community's strategic goals and operational priorities.

· Assess current manual workflows across teams, identifying high-impact opportunities where automation can deliver measurable efficiency gains.

· Define standards, best practices, and governance frameworks to ensure scalable, sustainable automation initiatives.

· Present automation proposals, progress updates, and outcome reports to leadership stakeholders in a clear and compelling manner.

Solution Design & Implementation

· Design, build, and deploy automation solutions using RPA platforms such as UiPath, Power Automate, or Automation Anywhere.

· Develop and configure workflow automation using tools such as Microsoft Power Platform, Zapier, or Make (formerly Integromat).

· Integrate automation solutions with existing systems, databases, and third-party applications to ensure seamless operational continuity.

· Conduct thorough testing, troubleshooting, and quality assurance activities for all automation deployments prior to and following go live.

Team Collaboration & Mentorship

· Collaborate effectively with cross-functional volunteer teams, including IT, data analytics, and program staff, to align automation efforts with broader organizational needs.

· Mentor junior automation volunteers, fostering skill development and building team capacity across the Technology & Innovation group.

· Document automation processes, user guides, and technical specifications to ensure knowledge continuity and ease of handover.

· Participate actively in regular team meetings, sprint reviews, and Solution Community events to maintain alignment and community engagement.

Required Qualifications

· 3+ years of experience in automation, process improvement, or a related technology discipline.

· Proficiency with at least one leading RPA platform (UiPath, Power Automate, Automation Anywhere, or similar).

· Strong understanding of workflow automation principles and integration patterns across enterprise systems.

· Demonstrated experience mapping business processes and translating operational requirements into scalable automation solutions.

· Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with an ability to diagnose process inefficiencies and prescribe effective remedies.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills; proven ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience leveraging AI/ML tools for intelligent automation and decision-support capabilities.

· Familiarity with low-code/no-code platforms, particularly Microsoft Power Platform or Zapier.

· Background in nonprofit, social enterprise, or volunteer-driven environments.

· Relevant RPA certifications, such as UiPath Certified Professional or Microsoft Power Platform certifications.

· Experience working within Agile or Scrum methodologies in a collaborative team environment.

What You'll Gain

· Global collaboration with leaders and strategists from top global companies

· Meaningful impact on global causes and communities

· A vibrant, multicultural team spanning 70+ countries

· A supportive environment rooted in compassion, integrity, innovation, and collaboration

· Flexible work life with full autonomy

· Opportunities for personal and professional growth

· A formal recommendation upon successful completion of your volunteer term.

Welcome and Reception Support Volunteer

Bilingual / Multilingual

As a Welcome and Reception support volunteer, you will be an invaluable part of the Manchester Hub team, supporting the hub to deliver vital frontline services. You'll be the first point of contact for clients and visitors, assisting the administration team with reception duties, and supporting the operation of the Shelter office in their day-to-day business 

You’ll act as the first point of contact for our clients, help to understand their needs and help them access necessary support through the duty or appointment services. Being a positive presence in hubs to ensure visitors feel comfortable and welcomed.

This role is an opportunity to make a real difference to the individuals we support. You’ll be developing your own knowledge and skills to support local people with a range of housing issues as well as providing practical support with form filling and providing a friendly, listening ear. You will gain experience of volunteering within a recognised national housing charity, while supporting your local community. 

Suggested Involvement: Approximately one day per week (can be more & can be flexible around your commitments) 

Availability: This volunteering opportunity will take place within our working hours, Monday-Friday, 9am – 5pm 

Location: Shelter Manchester Hub, Unit 3, Great North Tower, 5 Watson St, Manchester M3 4EE 

Supervised by: Office Administrator

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Why volunteer with Shelter? 

A home is a fundamental human need, as vital as education or healthcare. But in Britain today, that right is denied to millions of people whose lives are blighted by homelessness, bad housing conditions, soaring rents, discrimination and the threat of eviction. The time for change is now.

As a Welcome and Reception Support Volunteer, you’ll be supporting the day-to-day work of Shelter’s housing advisors as they provide advice, support and guidance to the people visiting the Manchester Hub. 

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experience our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering. 

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity. 

Main Tasks include 

• Cover reception and greeting people who come to the office. 

• Communicating with clients via phone and email to share updates on their case and to gather information. 

• Assisting clients with form filling, paperwork and applications around housing and benefits. 

• Supporting clients with digital skills, for example navigating online systems and forms. 

• Signposting clients to relevant services and providing useful information. 

• General administrative tasks (e.g. minute-taking, photocopying, scanning, and filing). 

Skills and experience required 

• Fluent in English and one of the following languages: Urdu, Arabic, Tigrinya, Kurdish Sorani 

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to understand the needs of our clients 

• Interest in social welfare law, e.g. housing; welfare benefits; debt; community care 

• The ability to work as part of a team and value and communicate effectively with others

• Confident using Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Excel and PDF documents to a good standard 

• Willingness to follow Shelter’s policies, including volunteering, health & safety, equality & diversity, confidentiality & data protection 

To enable you take part in this opportunity Shelter will

• Provide a volunteer pack including a Handbook and all Policies and Procedures. 

• Provide an induction into your role.  

• Provide access to our learning on data protection, safeguarding and screen wellness as well as other appropriate role specific training. 

• Reimburse “out of pocket” expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy. 

Benefits of Volunteering with Shelter 

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness. 

• Gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV. 

• Meet new people and be part of a great team. 

• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills. 

Next steps 

Please complete an online application for this role.

Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further. 

Please note, upon offer of role, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions and undergo a basic DBS check. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information. 

This is a voluntary position that supports the work of our services and is not replacing the work of a paid member of staff. This role profile does not form part of any contract of employment.

Could you help your local SSAFA team recruit volunteers in your area? Our volunteers are at the heart of SSAFA’s work, and recruiting the right people is essential to delivering our services! As one of our Regional Recruitment volunteers, you’ll play a key role in onboarding new community engagement volunteers for local branches. By supporting the recruitment process and supporting prospective volunteers, you will help ensure branches have the people they need to raise awareness in their communities!

*Please note, to be eligible for this role you must be residing in the South West of England. 

Some of the areas you may be asked to support include:

• Answer questions from perspective volunteers contact on our volunteer recruitment platform for enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Review applications via our online recruitment platform and arrange interviews with prospective volunteers in line with SSAFA’s policies and values.
• Assess the suitability of volunteer candidates in line with SSAFA’s policies and values and ensure they are placed in roles that are the right fit for them.
• Support volunteers through the recruitment process by requesting references, helping new volunteers to book role-specific and mandatory training.
• Arrange and liaise with the local branch to ensure that the new volunteer is properly inducted into their new role.

***Please be advised that this is role is part of an initial trial and your support will help ascertain if this is suitable for us to role out across all regions.

Requirements

You will need access to IT equipment such as a laptop and the internet to carry out the administration related to the role. Time commitment This role would suit someone looking for a role that can be done remotely from home weekly.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Ensuring an inclusive recruitment experience for all volunteers in line with SSAFA’s values.
• Strong admin and organisational skills.
• Interest in developing interviewing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Confident using IT Systems and online platforms.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others and make a difference
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising awareness of SSAFA.
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills in recruitment and administration which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

Volunteer Admin Manager & Committee Secretary

Help Keep MINDSET Organised as We Launch Our New Charity

MINDSET is a brand‑new men’s wellbeing and personal growth charity — and we’re looking for a highly organised, reliable volunteer to join us as our Admin Manager & Committee Secretary.

Our mission is to help men build resilience, confidence, emotional awareness, and healthier coping skills through practical, reflective, skills‑based support. To launch successfully, we need strong, consistent admin support to keep everything running smoothly.

If you can spare just a few hours a month and enjoy organising, coordinating, and supporting a small team, we’d love to hear from you.

What You’ll Do

We’re looking for someone who can help us:

• Provide admin support across our start‑up charity

• Act as Secretary for our Steering Group and committees

• Schedule meetings and send reminders

• Prepare agendas and take minutes

• Keep documents organised and up to date

• Support volunteer onboarding and record‑keeping

• Help maintain simple systems and processes

• Ensure communication flows smoothly across the team

Your role will be central to keeping MINDSET structured, organised, and ready to grow.

Who We’re Looking For

Someone who is:

• Organised, reliable, and good with detail

• Comfortable with basic admin tasks

• Confident writing emails, agendas, and minutes

• Able to keep information tidy and accessible

• Friendly, supportive, and good at communication

• Happy to take on small tasks that make a big difference

• Passionate about helping a new charity get off the ground

Experience in admin, office support, PA work, or committee secretarial roles is helpful but not essential.

Time Commitment

• A few hours per month, flexible around your schedule

• One Steering Group meeting per month

• Occasional short tasks between meetings

• All work can be done remotely

Perfect for someone who enjoys admin and wants to make a meaningful impact without a big time commitment.

Why Join Us?

• Play a key role in helping a new charity launch successfully

• Use your organisational skills to support a meaningful mission

• Gain experience in charity administration and governance

• Be part of a friendly, purpose‑driven team

• Help create the systems and structure that will shape MINDSET’s future

Your support will help us stay organised, focused, and ready to deliver life‑changing programmes for men.

Interested?

Tell us a little about yourself and why you’d like to get involved.

Support the delivery of creative arts and crafts activities that encourage young people to express themselves, develop new skills, and build confidence. Volunteers will help facilitate activities such as painting, drawing, sculpture, crafts, and themed creative projects while creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. You will encourage participation, celebrate creativity, and help young people explore their ideas in a fun and supportive space.

Inspire creativity and self-expression in young people Build confidence through creative achievement and skill development Encourage positive social interaction and teamwork Provide a safe space for young people to explore their interests and talents

The skills you'll need

• Enthusiasm for arts, crafts, and creativity
• Good communication and listening skills
• Patience and encouragement when supporting young people
• Ability to work as part of a team Positive and inclusive attitude
• Willingness to undertake safeguarding training

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Local public parking is available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a small, friendly charity based in Southwark, providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills.

We’re currently looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Social Club Volunteer to support our weekly Thursday sessions (10.30-12.30). We are based at St Faith’s Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations) however this role requires the ability to travel to other locations in the borough of Southwark. We're currently visiting Herne Hill Velodrome with Wheels For Wellbeing and we are looking for people who would be willing to participate alongside our learners.

About The Role

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys connecting with others. In Social Club you’ll support our tutor in encouraging learners to participate in a variety of fun activities which aim to nurture the supportive relationships between our learners and enhance their wellbeing, joy and sense of belonging.

As a Social Club Volunteer at Stepping Stones, you will:

• Assist the tutor in providing fun and stimulating activities
• Play a part in ensuring the health and safety of learners when offsite
• Offer 1:1 or group support where needed to help participants engage
• Help build a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe to express themselves

What You’ll Gain

Volunteering with us is a chance to:

• Contribute to a creative and meaningful community project
• Build relationships with and support learners to learn new skills and grow in confidence
• Experience working with adults with learning disabilities in a supportive setting
• Develop skills in teamwork, adaptability, communication, and creative problem-solving
• Have a place in a welcoming and friendly team of tutors, staff and volunteers
• Receive appropriate training and guidance from an experienced team

What We’re Looking For

At Stepping Stones we value:

• Good communication and a warm, encouraging approach
• Enthusiasm, patience, and a willingness to get involved
• A non-judgemental and inclusive mindset
• Reliability and commitment
• Flexibility and adaptability

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to:

• Attend an in-person session with the Stepping Stones team and learners
• Provide two references
• Complete a DBS check (we will arrange this)
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we ask that you commit to volunteering with us for one year.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and respond to the following questions (these will come up when you hit 'Apply Now')

• Why would you like to volunteer with Stepping Stones?
• What are the strongest attributes and values you feel you'll bring to this role? 

Support the delivery of creative arts and crafts activities that encourage young people to express themselves, develop new skills, and build confidence. Volunteers will help facilitate activities such as painting, drawing, sculpture, crafts, and themed creative projects while creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. You will encourage participation, celebrate creativity, and help young people explore their ideas in a fun and supportive space.

Inspire creativity and self-expression in young people Build confidence through creative achievement and skill development Encourage positive social interaction and teamwork Provide a safe space for young people to explore their interests and talents

The skills you'll need

• Enthusiasm for arts, crafts, and creativity
• Good communication and listening skills
• Patience and encouragement when supporting young people
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Positive and inclusive attitude
• Willingness to undertake safeguarding training

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Public car parking is available locally. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

FareShare Greater Manchester is looking for volunteer Driver's Assistants to join our busy friendly delivery team with redistributing tonnes of surplus food a month to charities and community initiatives across Greater Manchester.

FareShare is a national charity fighting food poverty and global warming by tackling food surplus. We source overstocked food from retailers and manufacturers and engage many volunteers to help re-distribute it to over 220 frontline charities and community groups across Greater Manchester. These groups, in turn, provide meals to vulnerable people experiencing food poverty, individuals who are homeless, families, and people who are unemployed or socially isolated. This food would otherwise have gone to waste, so we are simultaneously supporting people in need and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Key responsibilities

Working closely with the driver of a temperature-controlled 3.5 tonne Mercedes Sprinter van to deliver surplus food orders to the premises of the benevolent projects we support. 

Loading and unloading the vehicle and carrying out a range of tasks, from basic vehicle checks to delivery administration.

The required skills and attributes are:

• Reliability and ability to commit to pre-agreed volunteer shifts (ESSENTIAL)

• Physical fitness, to take on moving and handling of food orders

• Ability to follow procedures and instructions

• Good verbal communication skills

• Interest in the work of FareShare Greater Manchester and our values

• High respect for Health & Safety procedures and standards

In return you will gain:

Career and CV advice and support

A reference for future employers

Reimbursement of travel and lunch expenses 

The opportunity to give practical help to fight food poverty and reduce food waste (and associated CO2 emissions)

The opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends

Our operating hours are Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.

Driver and Driver’s Assistant shifts begin at 8:30am. 

We welcome volunteers who can commit to one day a week. 

The days and rota hours of volunteering are agreed around your availability.

​IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us. There are no exceptions to this rule. This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles. We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.

Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)

Support a variety of sports and recreational activities within the sports hall, helping young people stay active, have fun, and develop new skills. Volunteers will encourage participation, assist with equipment setup, support games and activities, and help maintain a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

Encourage active and healthy lifestyles Support confidence and skill development Promote teamwork and social connections Provide positive recreational opportunities for young people

The skills you'll need

• Interest in sport and physical activity
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to engage and motivate young people
• Teamwork and reliability
• Positive and approachable attitude
• Commitment to inclusion and wellbeing

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Limited local parking may be available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.