Volunteering opportunities volunteer volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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!
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!
Volunteer positions currently available in Sunderland
Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
- As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:
- Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
- Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
- Raise concerns
- Keep detailed notes and records
- Make a real difference to someone’s life
Hospital Visitor Volunteer
Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
-
hold drop-in sessions
-
attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
-
share information
-
assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
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”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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!
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!
Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
As a RPR support volunteer, you might:
- As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:
- Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
- Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
- Raise concerns
- Keep detailed notes and records
- Make a real difference to someone’s life
Hospital Visitor Volunteer
Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate. The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
- hold drop-in sessions
- attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
- share information
- assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
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”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer Driver – David Lewis
“Help us get where we want to go… and be part of our journey.”
A Message From the People We Support
“We’re looking for Volunteer Drivers who will help us get out into our community, enjoy activities, make appointments, meet friends, and live the lives we choose.
Sometimes we just need someone kind, reliable, and friendly to help us get from A to B — so we can do the things that matter to us.”
Your time, even a little, helps us stay connected, independent and included.
What You’ll Do — From Our Perspective
As a Volunteer Driver, you will help us to:
- Travel safely to activities, appointments, events, and days out
- Feel comfortable and supported during journeys
- Stay independent by helping us access places that are important to us
- Experience new things and take part in opportunities we enjoy
You might drive your own car or one of our David Lewis vehicles — whatever works best for you.
What We’ll Provide to Support You
“You don’t need to know everything — just be willing to help and show up with a smile.”
You’ll receive:
- Full induction and ongoing support
- Out‑of‑pocket expenses covered
- Access to our vehicle fleet if you prefer not to use your own
- A friendly, helpful team around you
- The chance to make a meaningful difference in our everyday lives
Who We’re Hoping to Meet
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has a full, clean driving licence
- Is reliable, calm, and a good communicator
- Treats people with kindness, patience, and respect
- Is happy to complete the necessary checks and training
If that sounds like you, we’d love to have you on our journeys.
Why Volunteering With Us Matters
“When you volunteer with us, you’re not just giving a lift — you’re giving us freedom, choice, and connection.”
Your time helps us:
- Reach our personal goals
- Feel confident travelling
- Stay active in our community
- Enjoy richer, more meaningful experiences
Every journey you support makes a difference.
Interested? Let’s Talk.
We’d really like to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
***Please note that this is an opportunity based in Nottingham in the United Kingdom and we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***
PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOT A PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITY AND IS NOT OPEN TO STUDENT VOLUNTEERS
What is the purpose of this role?
The Sybil Levin Day Service is a specialist SPECAL-Led day service supporting people with dementia and their carers using the SPECAL method.
What activities might you be involved in?
- Assisting centre attendees to engage in activities.
- Serving meals and drinks.
- Helping to set up and clear away activities.
- Engaging in conversation with centre attendees.
- Volunteering in line with the Charity’s policies and procedures and adhering to the Volunteer Code of Conduct
What are we looking for?
- People with a genuine interest in the wellbeing of people with dementia.
- A friendly, sensitive and kind approach.
- Being comfortable in small groups or on a one to one basis.
- People with a commitment to using the SPECAL method at all times whilst at the centre.
When would you be needed to volunteer?
The centre is open from Monday to Friday and would like volunteers to commit to a morning or afternoon at least once a week as a minimum.
What training will you be given?
You will be given all the training you need to enable you to carry out your role. This will include a thorough Charity induction and a departmental induction to provide further information about the role. You will also be given access to our online training library to complete the training modules that are mandatory for your role.
You will receive SPECAL training prior to commencing your role.
What can you gain from this opportunity?
- The chance to make a difference to the lives of people with dementia.
- Ongoing support, ensuring your volunteering experience is a fulfilling and positive one.
- A comprehensive training programme.
- The opportunity to learn new skills.
- Experience to add to your CV.
- The opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.
- Reimbursement of out of pocket expenses as defined in the Age UK Notts Volunteer Handbook
***Please note that we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Our emotional support volunteers offer vital emotional support to woman, girl and AFAB non-binary survivors of sexual violence and abuse by providing our helpline, email support and live chat services.
We are the only specialist service in Cambridgeshire providing dedicated support to woman survivors of rape and sexual violence.
These confidential and anonymous services would not exist without our amazing volunteers, who provide life-changing support to survivors in their local community.
Who are we looking for?
Women of all ages (18 years +) and backgrounds who are:
- Empathetic, non-judgemental and good listeners.
- Self-aware and emotionally resilient.
- Interested in discussing and learning about sexual violence and its impacts on women and girls.
- Able to maintain confidentiality and anonymity.
- Able to work independently using initiative and also be part of a team.
- Share CRCC’s survivor-focused ethos.
- Ideally able to commit to three shifts a month (shifts are Wednesday and Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings).
- Ideally able to commit to volunteering for at least 18 months.
We especially welcome enquiries from women from minoritised and under-represented groups and communities. This includes AFAB non-binary individuals who feel comfortable volunteering within a service run for women by women.
We can contribute to childcare costs and reasonable travel expenses to enable women to volunteer with us.
Comprehensive training and support will be provided for this role. Training starts on the 20 April 2026.
Details about the role
Location: CRCC's office in Cambridge and remotely (the latter only possible if volunteer has access to a private, confidential space to volunteer from that isn't their bedroom)
When: After the initial training period (starting 20 April 2026):
- Shifts: Wednesday 7-9.30pm and Sunday 10am-12.30pm
- Monthly reflective practice: Monday or Tuesday 6-7.30pm
Commitment: After the initial training period:
- 3 shifts per month on helpline/email/live chat (we operate a flexible rota)
- 1 reflective practice session per month
- Volunteer meetings once every 6 months
- Regular ongoing training
- Regular 121s
Providing specialist emotional, therapeutic and advocacy support to women and girls across Cambridgeshire impacted by sexual violence and abuse.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, 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.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Role
We are looking for a volunteer Trusts & Foundations Bid Writer to help secure funding from charitable trusts and foundations. The role involves researching suitable funders and preparing compelling grant applications to support our work and help expand our impact.
This is a great opportunity for someone with strong writing skills who wants to support a meaningful cause and gain experience in charity fundraising.
Key Responsibilities
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Research charitable trusts and foundations that align with our mission
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Identify funding opportunities and deadlines
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Write and submit high-quality grant applications and funding proposals
-
Tailor applications to match each funder’s priorities and criteria
-
Gather supporting information such as project details, budgets, and impact data
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Maintain a simple pipeline of potential funders and application statuses
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Assist with writing reports or updates for funders where required
Skills & Experience
We’re looking for someone who ideally has:
-
Strong written communication and storytelling skills
-
Attention to detail and ability to follow funder guidelines
-
Ability to research and identify funding opportunities
-
Experience with grant writing or charity fundraising (desirable but not essential)
-
Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
-
Passion for supporting charitable causes
What You’ll Gain
-
Experience in charity fundraising and grant writing
-
Opportunity to make a real impact by helping secure vital funding
-
Flexible volunteering that can fit around your schedule
-
A reference and recognition for your contribution
Support Provided
-
Background information about our organisation and projects
-
Access to relevant documents and financial information
-
Guidance and collaboration with the team where needed
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Become a Fundraising Volunteer!
Help make a better life for cats – because life is better with cats
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is, and always will be, at the heart of Cats Protection. It’s joyful, inclusive, and driven by people working together to transform the lives of cats, people, and communities. When you volunteer with us, you become part of something truly meaningful.
The difference you’ll make
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Cats Protection helps thousands of cats every year. Our fundraising volunteers play a vital role in making this possible. By using your passion for cats and people, you’ll help raise the funds needed to support more cats and kittens in need.
As a fundraising volunteer, we’ll support you to get involved in a way that suits you best. Whether you enjoy organising events, fundraising online, promoting activities on social media, helping with administration, or coming up with fresh ideas — there’s a place for you here. Whatever your skills or interests, this could be the perfect role.
What you can expect from us
- A warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment in line with our values and behaviours
- Support to help you have a positive and impactful volunteering experience
- Agreed out-of-pocket expenses covered in line with our Expenses Policy
- Access to learning, development, and engagement opportunities
What we need from you
This is a highly flexible role, and you can choose how you’d like to get involved. Opportunities include:
- Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping at fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, and monitoring collection tins
- Online fundraising – setting up online appeals and writing engaging cat case studies to maximise donations
- Marketing and promotion – spreading the word about fundraising activities via social media and local press
- Administration – processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, and completing Gift Aid paperwork
- Championing our work – helping to develop new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
- Photography – capturing images of cats in care, cats we’re helping, fundraising events, and all things Cats Protection
Time commitment
This role is flexible and designed to fit around your other commitments. You’ll be part of a friendly team raising vital funds — and having fun along the way.
You could be just the volunteer we’re looking for
We’re committed to building a diverse, compassionate, and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. Together, we’re courageous and compassionate in helping people see the world through cats’ eyes.
Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats. Together, we are all for cats.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Please note: this role would be based in our Bristol region and would potentially cover HMP Guys Marsh, HMP The Verne and HMP Portland.
Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?
Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.
We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.
Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.
Volunteer recruitment dates
The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.
Training:
You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.
Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:
-
27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
-
3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
-
10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
-
1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)
You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.
Why we want you
Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.
What you will be doing
- Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
- Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
- Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
- Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
- Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
- Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
- Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
- Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
- Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
- Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
- Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering
The skills you need
- A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
- Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
- Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
- Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
- Able to manage own time and prioritise
- Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
- Able to use IT
What's in it for you
- Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
- Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
- You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
- All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
- We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
- We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role
Disclaimer
In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.
Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?
Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.
We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.
Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.
Volunteer recruitment dates
The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.
Training:
You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.
Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:
-
27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
-
3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
-
10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)
-
1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)
You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.
Why we want you
Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.
What you will be doing
- Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
- Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
- Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
- Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
- Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
- Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
- Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
- Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
- Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
- Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
- Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering
The skills you need
- A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
- Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
- Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
- Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
- Able to manage own time and prioritise
- Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
- Able to use IT
What's in it for you
- Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
- Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
- You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
- All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
- We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
- We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role
Disclaimer
In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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!
Restore Wetlands and Unlock their Power



About Hope for the Young
We are a community of mentors, staff, young people, and volunteers who are passionate about welcoming young refugees to the UK and ensuring they are given every opportunity they need to settle into their communities, access education, and reach their full potential. Our mission is to remove the obstacles to young refugees and asylum-seekers’ education and well-being through mentoring, advocacy, and financial support.
We are looking for a passionate and creative Social Media Volunteer to help grow our online presence and amplify the voices of the young people we support.
As part of this role, you will:
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Create and schedule engaging social media content
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Draft compelling captions and stories
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Design graphics and visual content on Canva
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Share impact stories and highlight the achievements of young people
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Help grow engagement and reach across our social platforms
Requirements for the Role:
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Strong written English skills
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Ability to create engaging and creative content
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Good understanding of tone, messaging, and audience engagement
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Excellent attention to detail
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Able to commit to 7 hours per week (however this could be negotiated).
What you will get in return:
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Gain hands-on experience in social media and communications
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Develop content creation and storytelling skills
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Contribute to meaningful work supporting young people seeking safety in the UK
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Receive a reference upon successful completion of the role
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Flexible volunteering hours
- Travel expenses covered
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated individual to take on the role of Community First Aid Network Leader who can work and lead volunteering groups and leaders in their own way, supported by our central teams
The Network Lead role focuses on the South East London Network, Locations are primarily centred around Lewisham and the surrounding areas.
At St John Ambulance, we are looking to embed ourselves within our communities, delivering support which is tailored to the needs of those communities whilst providing a positive experience for our Volunteers.
We need leaders who are passionate about making a difference in their communities, who care about helping and developing others, who will lead and inspire a volunteer movement across a geographical area to deliver Community First Aid, Community Education and Community Fundraising as well as develop our offering for young people.
Through leading a team of Volunteer leaders, you will drive excellence in delivery, develop an inclusive and diverse volunteering experience for new and current volunteers, and help navigate through change to build a bigger and better St John Ambulance.
As Network Lead, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride through supporting a team and our volunteers to deliver our essential services. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation. We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter. Volunteers would be expected to attend training for the role both online and in person, to attend regularly network weekly meetings to enable them to keep their skills up to date.
This role calls for strong leadership abilities and proven experience in managing people. Successful candidates will have access to additional leadership development opportunities, including self-directed learning and structured training courses.
The position involves attending County meetings every 6 weeks and occasional Regional meetings, both online via Teams and in person. If you are successful, you will need to undertake relevant training for the role, details of which will be discussed after you have been appointed.
Closing date for these opportunities is: 4th April 2026
To apply for this opportunity, please follow the link below:
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Could you help your local SSAFA branch recruit volunteers in your area? You just some basic I.T and admin skills, patience, the ability to get on with a wide range of people and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be the role for you, we’d love to hear from you.
What is a Recruitment Coordinator?
Recruitment Coordinators help us find local people interested in supporting SSAFA and take them through our recruitment and selection process.
Why do we need you?
We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.
There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.
To offer the best possible service to our clients we need to match the right volunteers to the right role. Could you spare a few hours a week to help recruit new volunteers and welcome them to SSAFA by supporting them through their induction phase? We’d love to hear from you if think you could help with this important role.
When would you be needed and where would you be based?
The role is about recruitment and so will involve attending local recruitment fairs a few times a year as well as meeting volunteers both face-to-face and virtually. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but the administration part of the ole can be done form home.
What would you be doing?
· Be the first point of contact for all volunteering enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
· Supporting volunteers through the recruitment and induction process and ensuring volunteers are communicated with throughout.
· Arranging informal interviews for new volunteers conducted in-line with SSAFA policies.
· Conducting ID checks (where relevant) so the volunteer can begin the vetting process
· Supporting volunteers to book onto role specific training and ensuring they complete their mandatory training.
· Working with the VDM to ensure branch vacancies are advertised on the branch website and national websites and support any national recruitment campaigns
· Maintaining good relationships with local Volunteer Centres and other local sources of volunteer promotion and attend local recruitment fairs.
· Evaluating volunteer recruitment activity, experimenting with creative ways to recruit volunteers from a variety of sources to create a diverse network of volunteers.
· Treating all potential volunteers inclusively with respect and sensitivity, regardless of age or background
· Supporting any volunteers facing barriers to find a suitable role.
· Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
· Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA
The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.
What can you gain from this volunteering role?
· Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
· Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to beneficiaries as well as providing volunteering opportunities.
· Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
· Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
· Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!
What training and support would you receive?
· Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. This training would take approx. 3 hours.
· Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
· Access to a range of e-learning courses.
· Support from the Volunteer Development Manager and Trainer (per region)
· Access to the Volunteer Experience Team based at our central office.
· Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
· Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.
What are we looking for?
· Friendly and approachable people, with good listening skills, patience, and a positive attitude
· Good communication skills, both written and verbal
· Good written and spoken English.
· Respectful and non-judgemental with potential volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
· Willingness and ability to use IT systems for initial and on-going training and during the role, including accessing and responding to emails and using Microsoft offices software.
· Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to undertake training.
· Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely., in line with SSAFA policies.
· Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings and events and t meet volunteers.
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.
Minimum Age: 18
Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.
References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)
Is a criminal record check required? No
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.