Volunteer support manager volunteer roles

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats and kittens each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups. We have branches across the UK, all of which help our cats in different ways. Branches take in stray and abandoned cats and ensure they receive the veterinary care and attention they deserve; help raise funds, promote neutering and help spread cat welfare messages. Our branch team leader volunteers lead their local team by supporting and managing volunteers within their group, maintaining communications with both volunteers and employees, and helping promote a positive and professional image of Cats Protection.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Supporting your team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure volunteers are happy and confident
• Making sure the team observes charity best practice and compliance
• Collaborating with your Branch Development Manager (BDM) to plan volunteer activity
• Leading the team to follow Cats Protection policies, procedures and guidelines
• Monitoring expenditure and helping ensure long term financial stability of the volunteer group
• Organising and chairing team meetings
• Acting as an ambassador for Cats Protection

Time expectation

Our branch team leader volunteers usually spend 10 to 15 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. There will be times of year when more hours are required, such as towards the end of the financial year, but support and guidance are available.

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better  with cats.

Tools With A Mission, a Christian charity, is looking for a volunteer Van Coordinator to help organise and support the smooth running of our van collections across Northern England.

Our vans play a vital role in collecting and transporting donated tools from the public, which are refurbished and sent overseas to support livelihoods and transform communities.

This is a voluntary position, ideal for an organised and reliable individual who wants to make a meaningful contribution to a charity making a global impact.

Are you passionate about building safe, inclusive, and transformative communities? Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is seeking a committed Community Engagement & Moderation Manager to join our founding volunteer team. This pivotal role ensures that our membership ecosystem and community spaces are welcoming, safe, and structured to empower survivors, young people, and marginalised communities while fostering accountability and collective growth.

As Community Engagement & Moderation Manager, you will lead the strategy and day-to-day management of all member-facing spaces, ensuring they operate smoothly, safely, and in alignment with our values-led, anti-capitalist mission. You will work closely with the Technical Systems Liaison, Platform Engineers, and Membership Director to implement moderation systems, engagement strategies, and support processes that strengthen participation, collaboration, and trust across our community.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential / Highly Valued Experience

• Experience in community management, engagement, or moderation across online, in-person, or hybrid environments
• Practical understanding of safeguarding principles, boundary setting, and appropriate responses to risk, harm, or vulnerability
• Knowledge of conflict resolution, ethical moderation practices, and proportionate responses to challenging behaviour
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage clearly, empathetically, and assertively with diverse audiences
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive issues with professionalism, discretion, and emotional intelligence
• Strong organisational skills, including accurate record-keeping, documentation of interventions, and tracking outcomes or trends
• Ability to balance approachability with authority, maintaining trust while enforcing community standards
• Confidence working collaboratively with leadership, technical teams, and safeguarding leads
• Commitment to inclusion, fairness, transparency, and community wellbeing

Desirable / Can Be Developed

• Competence in using digital tools, social platforms, or community management software (e.g. forums, moderation dashboards, reporting systems)
• Ability to work with engagement metrics, reports, and qualitative feedback to inform decision-making
• Experience supporting onboarding or training of members, volunteers, or staff in community guidelines and processes

Qualifications

• Formal qualifications in community development, social work, youth work, or related fields are welcome but not required; equivalent professional or lived experience is valued

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Responsible for nurturing a positive, inclusive, and well-governed community environment across online and offline spaces. Ensuring members feel welcomed, heard, and protected, while upholding organisational values, safeguarding standards, and community guidelines.
• Develop and implement engagement strategies that encourage active participation, collaboration, and a sense of belonging among members. Supporting discussion spaces, events, campaigns, and feedback mechanisms that reflect the diversity of the community and promote respectful dialogue.
• Monitoring and moderation of community interactions. Oversee online platforms and relevant offline spaces to ensure behaviour aligns with safeguarding policies, codes of conduct, and organisational values. Identifying harmful behaviour, addressing breaches proportionately, and escalating concerns in line with safeguarding and risk management procedures.
• Respond to member queries, concerns, or conflicts in a timely, professional, and sensitive manner. This involves active listening, de-escalation, clear communication of boundaries, and fair resolution of disputes, ensuring members feel supported while maintaining community standards.
• Work closely with technical and operational teams to support the implementation and effective use of moderation tools, reporting systems, and engagement metrics. Contributing to the refinement of workflows for reporting concerns, tracking incidents, and measuring participation and sentiment.
• Support the onboarding and orientation of new members, volunteers, and staff into community platforms, systems, and protocols. This includes communicating expectations, safeguarding responsibilities, and available support resources to promote confident and informed participation.
• Accurate documentation is key. Record engagement activities, moderation actions, member feedback, and emerging issues to inform transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Working collaboratively with leadership, contribute to the development and review of community policies, moderation processes, and training materials that strengthen safety, wellbeing, inclusion, and shared culture. Analyse engagement trends and feedback to recommend improvements, innovations, and preventative strategies that enhance the overall health of the community. 

What This Role Offers You:

• Leadership experience in building and sustaining safe, inclusive, and impactful communities.
• Personal growth through hands-on engagement with vulnerable and marginalised populations.
• Opportunity to directly shape the culture and systems of a pioneering, values-led CIC.
• The satisfaction of enabling community voices, supporting survivors, and fostering meaningful social impact.

What This Role Is Not For:

• Individuals seeking purely administrative work, financial reward, or traditional corporate structures.
• Those unwilling to enforce and uphold safeguarding policies and community guidelines.
• People expecting pre-defined, hands-off responsibilities—this role requires active engagement, problem-solving, and responsive decision-making.

If you are ready to lead, shape, and safeguard a transformative community that empowers survivors and marginalised voices, we want to hear from you. Apply now and become a key architect of meaningful social change.

A Final Word

Community is built on people, not platforms.
Trust grows through fairness, consistency, and care.
Privacy protects wellbeing and dignity.
Respect, empathy, and clear boundaries are what keep communities safe and connected.

Do you want to make a difference? Can you spare 2 hours a week?

We are currently looking for Befriender Volunteers in East Sussex.

(Telephone Based work from home, but can lead to face-to-face befriending)

Please get in touch and come and join our amazing Befriending team.

Older persons are at risk of becoming isolated and losing their community connections. As a mainly Telephone Befriender Volunteer, you'll work flexibly from the comfort of your own home and contact older persons to understand their service needs. If you love talking to others, are polite and empathetic, and have access to a phone, we'd love to hear from you. There may also be the opportunity for a physical meeting, but only if relevant and where it is something you want to do.

This Role Turns Digital Campaigns Into Real-World Impact. At Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C., online fundraising is more than clicks—it’s building a movement.
The Online Fundraising and Campaign Manager ensures that all digital campaigns—from social media drives to crowdfunding initiatives—are strategically designed, executed, and optimised for impact. You will lead online engagement, campaign planning, and donor acquisition strategies, connecting supporters to the CIC’s mission and converting attention into meaningful action. This is not a passive posting role—it is strategic, high-energy, and central to scaling the CIC’s digital impact.

This role exists to:

• Plan, launch, and manage online fundraising campaigns across multiple digital platforms
• Coordinate with Content and Donor Communication Specialists to ensure cohesive messaging
• Analyse campaign performance, adjusting strategies in real time for maximum engagement
• Support the Fundraising Director with digital strategy, reporting, and optimisation
• Ensure campaigns comply with safeguarding, ethical, and CIC standards
• Develop creative fundraising initiatives that engage online communities
• Track donor journeys from awareness to contribution, improving retention and growth

You are the digital architect of campaigns that mobilise supporters and funds.

Why This Role Matters

Online fundraising is critical for the CIC’s sustainability:

• It generates immediate and scalable revenue for programmes
• It grows awareness and community support beyond geographic boundaries
• It empowers supporters to engage meaningfully with the CIC’s mission

Without this role, online campaigns risk low engagement, wasted effort, or lost opportunities. With it, the CIC can reach thousands of supporters efficiently and ethically.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential / Highly Valued Experience

• Experience using online fundraising platforms such as JustGiving, GoFundMe, Stripe, Patreon, or similar tools
• Experience in digital campaign planning, execution, and optimisation
• Strong understanding of social media marketing, including platform-specific strategies and analytics
• Experience with email marketing tools and CRM systems for supporter engagement and fundraising
• Ability to monitor, analyse, and interpret performance data to inform decisions
• Experience producing clear reports and insights for non-technical audiences and leadership
• Strong written communication skills, with an ability to craft compelling calls to action
• Creative mindset with the ability to generate and test innovative campaign ideas
• Good organisational skills and ability to manage multiple campaigns and deadlines
• Understanding of ethical fundraising, safeguarding, and data protection principles
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and volunteers
• Confidence working independently in a volunteer role, with proactive problem-solving skills
• Commitment to the organisation’s mission, values, and respectful supporter engagement

Desirable / Can Be Developed

• Basic knowledge of digital design or content tools

Qualifications

• Formal qualifications not required; equivalent professional or voluntary experience is highly valued

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Design and deliver online fundraising campaigns: Plan, implement, and manage end-to-end digital fundraising initiatives across social media, crowdfunding platforms, email marketing, and web-based channels. Ensure campaigns are aligned with organisational goals, audiences, and key fundraising moments.
• Develop innovative engagement strategies: Create and test creative campaign ideas, challenges, peer-to-peer fundraising initiatives, and digital engagement activities that motivate supporters to donate, share, and advocate. Continuously explore new trends and tools in online fundraising.
• Coordinate creative assets: Work collaboratively with Content, Communications, and Donor Engagement teams to develop compelling copy, visuals, videos, and calls to action. Ensure consistent messaging, tone, and branding across all digital channels.
• Campaign optimisation and performance monitoring: Track and analyse campaign metrics such as reach, engagement, conversion rates, donation values, and supporter growth. Use insights to adjust strategies in real time and improve campaign effectiveness.
• Data-driven decision making: Interpret analytics and audience behaviour to refine targeting, messaging, timing, and platform use. Support evidence-based recommendations for future fundraising activity.
• Compliance and ethical standards: Ensure all online fundraising activities comply with relevant regulations, platform terms, safeguarding policies, data protection requirements, and ethical fundraising standards. Promote transparency and donor trust at all stages.
• Reporting and accountability: Prepare clear and timely reports on campaign performance, outcomes, and learning for leadership and stakeholders. Highlight successes, challenges, and recommendations for improvement.
• Volunteer collaboration: Engage and coordinate volunteer teams and digital ambassadors to amplify campaigns, encourage peer sharing, and extend reach within communities and networks. Provide guidance and motivation to support consistent messaging.
• Continuous improvement: Contribute to the development of best practices, templates, and processes for online fundraising. Share learning across teams to strengthen organisational digital fundraising capacity. 

Who This Role Is For

This role is suited to someone who:

• Understands online fundraising and digital campaign strategy
• Can plan, execute, and monitor campaigns independently and collaboratively
• Is creative, data-driven, and solution-oriented
• Can translate social media trends into actionable fundraising opportunities
• Values transparency, ethics, and mission-aligned digital engagement

You are a strategic digital leader and campaign innovator.

What You Gain

• Founding-level experience in online fundraising strategy and execution
• Strategic insight into digital engagement and campaign optimisation
• Leadership exposure in managing multi-channel campaigns
• Priority consideration for future paid roles
• Direct contribution to community empowerment and CIC sustainability

This role builds digital strategy, fundraising, and online community leadership skills.

What This Role Is Not For

This role is not suitable if you:

• Prefer low-responsibility volunteer work
• Avoid digital tools, analytics, or campaign strategy
• Are seeking immediate paid employment
• Are uncomfortable managing ethical online engagement and fundraising

Important to Be Clear

• This is a volunteer role during the CIC’s build phase
• It carries real responsibility for digital campaign success and donor engagement
• Paid roles will emerge as funding and sustainability allow

Next Steps

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to:

• A values-led conversation
• A practical discussion about campaign strategy, performance, and collaboration

If you believe that digital campaigns can create meaningful impact, and that online engagement is a tool for real-world change, this role is for you.

A Final Word

Fundraising is about people, not just donations.

If you know that:

• Trust is built through transparency, consistency, and care
• Privacy and safeguarding are essential to ethical digital engagement
• Respectful communication strengthens supporter relationships and loyalty

 …then you already understand the heart of effective online fundraising and campaign management.

Are you passionate about sustainability? Do you want to make a real impact on household carbon footprints and promote sustainable living? Can you help us crowdsource our innovative E-Save app and outreach programme?

What will you be doing?

To support delivery of the E‑Save app, you’ll help recruit, support and coordinate our growing UK‑based volunteer community. You’ll provide administrative oversight for current volunteers, support ongoing recruitment, and help develop volunteer and HR processes.

 Over time, you’ll contribute to policies, engagement programmes, crowd‑sourcing initiatives, and local pilot volunteers.

What are we looking for?

We’re looking for UK‑based volunteers with experience in HR, volunteer management, or people operations. You’ll help lead volunteer recruitment, onboarding and training; develop HR and volunteer policies; support engagement and wellbeing; and maintain confidential records. 

You’ll need strong organisational and interpersonal skills, knowledge of safeguarding and data protection, and the ability to support a diverse, remote volunteer team.

What difference will you make?

You will lead and/or support the volunteer recruitment and engagement needed to sustain and grow the organisation, and develop the network of experts and contributors that will power E-Save.

You will be at the forefront of innovation, bringing climate action into people’s homes across the UK, making sustainable living part of everyday life.

Join us as a Volunteer Yard Assistant at one of our four rescue and rehoming centres where rescued horses begin their journey to a brighter future – receiving the expert, compassionate care they need to heal and thrive.

As a Volunteer Yard Assistant you’ll play an important role in supporting the smooth running of our yards by helping with day to day tasks. Your contribution will allow our expert grooms to focus on rehabilitating horses and preparing them for a loving new home.

This is a physically active role where you’ll get to be part of a friendly and inclusive team, experience the satisfaction of making a real difference, and have opportunities to be involved in other charity activities, such as open days. While horse handling may be limited, the sense of purpose, teamwork, and enjoyment are unlimited!

If you’re reliable, enthusiastic and enjoy working as part of a team, we’d love to hear from you. Our centres are currently looking for volunteers to help on the following days:

• Glenda Spooner Farm in Somerton, Somerset: Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and Fridays from 9am to 11am, with the option to stay on until 1pm once established.
• Hall Farm in Snetterton, Norfolk: Any day except Tuesdays.
• Penny Farm in Blackpool, Lancashire: Saturdays and Sundays from 8am to 1pm or 2pm to 4.30pm.

Become a Fundraisng Team Leader Volunter!

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• keeping financial records from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility 

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.  

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website. 

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility 

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way! 

Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board! 

Independent Visitor Volunteer 

Our Independent Visitor Volunteers provide consistent and supportive relationships to children ad young people in care, offering emotional support, companionship, and guidance through shared activities and time together.The Independent Visitor plays a vital role in helping the young people build confidence and feel secure while enhancing their personal, social, and cultural development. 

As an Independent Visitor Volunteer in England, you might: 

• support the child/young person to experience enriching activities that contribute to their personal and cultural development

• engage in activities such as pursuing hobbies, meeting for meals, or socialising in a community setting

• listen to and support the young person, fostering a sense of safety and trust

• help the young person develop social skills and increase their involvement in their community

• develop a positive and lasting relationship, ensuring the young person feels valued and supported 

You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that the Independent Visitor Volunteers generally volunteer at evening and weekends due to the children’s and young person’s availability. 

Safeguarding Commitment Statement 

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice. 

ED&I Statement 

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential. 

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options. 

To find out more click “Apply Now”.  

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats and kittens each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups. We have branches across the UK, all of which help our cats in different ways. Branches take in stray and abandoned cats and ensure they receive the veterinary care and attention they deserve; help raise funds, promote neutering and help spread cat welfare messages. Our branch team leader volunteers lead their local team by supporting and managing volunteers within their group, maintaining communications with both volunteers and employees, and helping promote a positive and professional image of Cats Protection.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Supporting your team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure volunteers are happy and confident
• Making sure the team observes charity best practice and compliance
• Collaborating with your Branch Development Manager (BDM) to plan volunteer activity
• Leading the team to follow Cats Protection policies, procedures and guidelines
• Monitoring expenditure and helping ensure long term financial stability of the volunteer group
• Organising and chairing team meetings
• Acting as an ambassador for Cats Protection

Time expectation

Our branch team leader volunteers usually spend 10 to 15 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. There will be times of year when more hours are required, such as towards the end of the financial year, but support and guidance are available.

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better  with cats.

Activities and Events Volunteer

About The Role

As an Activities and Events volunteer, you will play a vital role in assisting staff leading a variety of fun, interactive and nature-based activities aimed at family groups, especially children, and also helping with aspects of our adult-friendly walks and talk programme that runs throughout the year. 

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You’ll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 
 
Please note that some of our roles are very popular so we may close applications before the advertised closing date. Make sure you apply early to avoid disapointment.
 
If you are interested in volunteering for WWT but don’t wish to apply online, please email us or give us a call and leave us a message with your name and number. 

About You

Who are we looking for?

This role will suit you if you:

• Have an enthusiasm for the natural world and for sharing it with others.
• Have a calm, friendly and composed manner.
• Can communicate well with a wide range of audiences.
• Have a commitment to providing excellent customer service.
• Are keen, enthusiastic, and willing to learn.
• Have a good ability and are happy to work as part of a friendly, busy team and on your own at times.
• Are willing to spend time outdoors in all weather conditions.

Unfortunately this role is not suitable for anyone Under 18.

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love volunteering at WWT

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife – talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake…
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

Time commitment: Preferably one day a week over weekends, bank holidays and school holidays 9.30am – 4.30pm, including occasional early morning and evening activities. We will mutually agree the hours that you can contribute. These may vary from week to week and can be offered on a rota basis. 

How to Apply

For more information on this important role, and others, and to apply please visit our webpage. 

Thank you so much for your interest in the work WWT does, and we look forward to hearing from you! 

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.

Fine Cell Work (FCW) is a UK-based rehabilitation charity and social enterprise. We are supported by an incredible team of prison volunteers who are the link between the charity and the stitchers we work with in prison. Our volunteers run fortnightly stitching groups in the prisons we work with to facilitate our stitchers’ production of high-quality needlework.

Our prison volunteers work in small teams to teach our stitchers’ embroidery and needlepoint, organise their group sessions, and liaise with the prison and FCW office.

What you will do as a prison volunteer:

• Teach people in prison how to stitch and support the completion of our premade kits in our cell groups, which consist of around 10-15 stitchers.
• Communicate with staff at our hub in Battersea to receive kits and supplies for your group and send back completed work for your stitchers to be paid.
• Encourage and help stitchers to complete our Open College Network certifications in creative needlework.
• Develop stitchers’ skills and confidence by encouraging them to take responsibility as peer mentors.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity and sharing our vision and values throughout your volunteering.

Who we are looking for:

• Skills in embroidery and/or needlepoint or a willingness to learn to stitch is essential for this role.
• Ideally some teaching experience or experience working with socially-excluded groups.
• Someone with a non-judgemental attitude and commitment to rehabilitation.
• Someone who is an excellent team worker.
• Someone who is good at observing personal boundaries.

Commitment: our stitching groups run for 2 hours every fortnight, so with travel time and some admin work after groups we ask prison volunteers to set aside a morning or afternoon every 2 weeks.

You must be over 18 for this role with the ability to travel to the prison. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity.

Please take some time to read the role description to find out more details about the role and what we offer to our prison volunteers. 

At Fine Cell Work, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented amongst FCW’s prison volunteers. This includes applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, and male identifying applicants.

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.  

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website. 

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility 

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way! 

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board! 

Support Session Volunteer

You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities.  Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis.  The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual. 

As a support session volunteer, you might: 

• help people have their say when it matters most

• Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met 

• help people to make complaints and use local services 

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening. 

Safeguarding Commitment Statement 

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice. 

ED&I Statement 

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential. 

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options. 

To find out more click “Apply Now”.