Youth and children volunteer roles

Join the Board of SOS Children’s Villages UK – Child Rights Trustee

Location: remote with occasional in-person commitments

Time commitment: 8-10 days per annum (quarterly board meetings)

Remuneration: voluntary

 SOS Children’s Villages UK is seeking passionate, strategic and collaborative individuals to join its Board of Trustees at one of the most important moments in the Charity’s history. In December 2025, the Board made the pivotal decision for the Charity to leave the SOS Children’s Villages Federation after more than 50 years. In autumn 2026, the organisation will re-launch under a new name and logo, while continuing to work with many existing partners and building new ways to increase its impact. 

The Charity’s core belief remains unchanged: all children have the right to feel loved, safe and supported. It focuses on children and young people without parental care, or at risk of losing it, through family strengthening, quality alternative care, youth employability and education, emergency support, advocacy and research.

Child Rights Trustee 

• Expertise in child rights, with experience in programme design or oversight, policy development and advocacy, ideally with an understanding of the rights of children who have lost, or are at risk of losing, parental care. 

• An understanding of the role that youth engagement and locally-led development play in achieving and sustaining good outcomes. 

• A thorough appreciation of the key challenges facing the international development sector. 

• Current direct experience of the countries or regions in which the Charity seeks to make an impact, particularly Sub-Saharan Africa, to help inform Trustee decision-making. 

Why Join Us?

• Join a charity at a defining moment as it becomes fully independent and prepares for a public re-launch in autumn 2026. 

• Help increase influence and impact for children without parental care, or at risk of losing it. 

• Support locally led interventions, youth participation, child safeguarding, income growth and a strong values-led culture. 

• Work with a collaborative Board and executive team that values diverse backgrounds, perspectives and lived experience. 

• Contribute to stronger systems, advocacy and partnerships so more children can grow up with love, respect and security. 

About you:

We are looking for those with strong empathy for the mission, strategic insight, sound judgement and a collaborative spirit. Board experience is helpful but not essential: first-time trustees will be considered. SOS Children’s Villages UK particularly welcomes applications from individuals with direct experience of the UK or other care systems, as a child or adult. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. 

• Ability to build and sustain relationships with stakeholders and colleagues. 

• Good independent judgement, strategic vision and willingness to speak your mind respectfully. 

• Understanding, or willingness to learn, the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship. 

Recruitment timeline:

To ensure equitable access to information and uphold the organisations commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, they will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair/Executive team. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Thursday 27th August 6-7pm and we will send you a link.

Application deadline: 5pm Friday 11th September

How to apply:

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to SOS Children’s Villages UK on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack. For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala or Tiku van Houtem or via email at Senior Appointments at Charity People

Use of AI in applications:

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

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

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

The skills you'll need

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

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

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

Airplay is part of the RAF Benevolent fund and run by One YMCA. We provide youth clubs for children aged eight to eighteen which includes Ben Clubs for children aged 5 to 7 too. We provide a range of social activities in state-of-the-art facilities with sessions run by our friendly youth workers.

Location

Multiple locations available across:

· Oxfordshire (RAF Benson/RAF Brize Norton)

· Bedfordshire (RAF Henlow)

· Buckinghamshire (RAF Halton/High Wycombe)

· Wales (RAF Valley)

· Wiltshire (MOD Boscombe Down)

· Hampshire (RAF Odiham)

· Cornwall (RAF St Mawgan)

· West Midlands (RAF Cosford)

· Shropshire (RAF Shawbury)

·       Hampshire (RAF Odiham)​

MAIN TASKS/RESPONSIBILITIES:

· To support the provision of the Airplay and Ben Club activities and workshops

· Developing relationships with young people in a safe environment

· Supervising children and young people in activities, workshops and discussion sessions

· Engaging in learning and play with younger children

· Working with children and young people to track their progress

· Data entry/light admin work may be required

YOU WILL NEED:

· Good communication skills

· Knowledge/Experience of working with children/young people/families

· Ability to engage with young people

· Team player with a flexible approach

· Non-judgmental and understanding in the differing needs of families

· Any practical skills to assist with activities

· Basic understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding

· Respect the Christian Ethos of One YMCA and uphold its values 

YOU WILL RECEIVE: 

· A full induction to Airplay will be provided

· Requirement to complete online e-learning including Safeguarding and Health & Safety

· A menu of optional training will be provided

· Ongoing support and regular 1 to 1s

· Opportunities to attend volunteer meetings and events

· You will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check

· Additional checks may be required for individual RAF Stations

· Two references will be required

Summary

Can you inspire, energise and motivate young people aged 12-18 years?
Do you enjoy making a real difference to the lives of young people?

Detailed description

Mentoring within One YMCA is delivered through the youth team and volunteers. Young people aged 13-19 years can access the service which provides support and encouragement for young people to work towards their goals.

Mentors and mentees are paired based on experience, expertise and support needed.

This project will last for up to a year with each young person, with an average of 3-4 hours per month being given to the young person and their support.

Training for this role is due to commence on 22nd January 2025 (Time and Location TBC)

Pay: This is a voluntary role; however, expenses will be covered.

Key Responsibilities:

·To attend full induction training and complete all relevant child protection checks

·To arrange to meet with your mentee for 1-3 hours a month over a period of 12 months, in a public place.

·To prepare for your mentoring sessions with the purpose of progressing with their mutually agreed goals.

·To offer tailored support to your Mentee in areas such as confidence and resilience building, accessing services, careers focus and development. You may be working on a number of areas as the needs of your Mentee present themselves.

·To safeguard and promote the wellbeing of your Mentee.

·To complete feedback, monitoring and evaluation forms.

·To liaise with the mentoring coordinator for support in delivery of sessions where needed.

·To help identify the support that your Mentee requires, reporting any concerns you have to the mentoring coordinator.

·Completing regular reviews with your Mentee and mentoring coordinator.

·Any other reasonable task that is associated with the role.

Personal Specification:

Experience:

• Experience of working with young people
• Experience of working with young people from a variety of backgrounds

Skills:

• Ability to work on own initiative and a willingness to prepare for each session
• Ability to use online video platforms such as Microsoft Teams
• Ability to think creatively and problem solve
• Good communication skills
• Good organisational skills
• Ability to work as a part of a team
• A willingness to meet the young person in a public space

Personal Qualities:

• An interest in working with young people
• Ability to engage with a young person
• The willingness to have an open mind and non-judgemental approach to supporting a young person in their mentoring journey
• Ability to cope with potentially difficult conversations or situations
• Commitment to the mentoring project and to the Mentee
• Motivated by promoting the wellbeing of young people
• Commitment to and ability to work in accordance with ethos of One YMCA, their polices and boundaries

Other:

• Willing to undertake and induction and training
• Willing to provide 2 references
• Willing to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring check (DBS)

Support climbing sessions by helping create an encouraging and welcoming environment where young people can challenge themselves, build confidence, and develop resilience. Volunteers will assist qualified staff with participant engagement, encouragement, and session support.

Help young people develop confidence and self-belief Encourage resilience and problem-solving skills Promote healthy lifestyles and positive risk-taking Support personal achievement and goal setting

You will need to have the following skills in order to participate:

• Interest in climbing or outdoor activities (experience desirable but not essential)
• Positive and encouraging attitude
• Good communication skills
• Ability to support and motivate young people
• Reliability and teamwork
• Willingness to follow health and safety procedures
• Directions - public transport

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

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

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

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

Pursuing the role

We will be running a number of information events locally and these are:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

We are looking to run a volunteering selection session on:

• Date, Times and Location to be advised

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

• Welcome Event (Induction) - 
• Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Training for role - 
• Date, Times and Location to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 04/09/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Support young people to develop practical cooking and baking skills through fun, engaging, and educational sessions. Volunteers will assist staff with preparing activities, encouraging participation, promoting kitchen safety, and helping young people build confidence through food preparation and cooking.

Develop practical life skills and independence Encourage healthy eating and wellbeing Build confidence through achievement and creativity Create opportunities for social interaction and teamwork

The skills you'll need

• Interest in cooking, baking, or food preparation
• Good communication skills
• Positive and patient approach
• Ability to support and encourage learning
• Teamwork and reliability
• Commitment to food hygiene and safety procedures

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

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

Support young people to explore music through performance, songwriting, recording, production, and creative projects. Volunteers will encourage participation, support learning opportunities, and help create an inclusive environment where young people can develop confidence and express themselves through music.

Encourage creativity and self-expression Build confidence and communication skills Support personal and social development Help young people discover and develop musical talents

The skills you'll need

• Interest in music, performance, or production
• Positive and enthusiastic attitude
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to encourage and motivate young people
• Creativity and patience
• Teamwork and reliability

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

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

Airplay is part of the RAF Benevolent fund and run by One YMCA. We provide youth clubs for children aged eight to eighteen which includes Ben Clubs for children aged 5 to 7 too. We provide a range of social activities in state-of-the-art facilities with sessions run by our friendly youth workers.

Multiple locations available across:

· Oxfordshire (RAF Benson/RAF Brize Norton)

· Bedfordshire (RAF Henlow)

· Buckinghamshire (RAF Halton/High Wycombe)

· Wales (RAF Valley)

· Wiltshire (MOD Boscombe Down)

· Hampshire (RAF Odiham)

· Cornwall (RAF St Mawgan)

· West Midlands (RAF Cosford)

· Shropshire (RAF Shawbury)

·       Hampshire (RAF Odiham)​

MAIN TASKS/RESPONSIBILITIES:

· To support the provision of the Airplay and Ben Club activities and workshops

· Developing relationships with young people in a safe environment

· Supervising children and young people in activities, workshops and discussion sessions

· Engaging in learning and play with younger children

· Working with children and young people to track their progress

· Data entry/light admin work may be required

YOU WILL NEED:

· Good communication skills

· Knowledge/Experience of working with children/young people/families

· Ability to engage with young people

· Team player with a flexible approach

· Non-judgmental and understanding in the differing needs of families

· Any practical skills to assist with activities

· Basic understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding

· Respect the Christian Ethos of One YMCA and uphold its values 

YOU WILL RECEIVE: 

· A full induction to Airplay will be provided

· Requirement to complete online e-learning including Safeguarding and Health & Safety

· A menu of optional training will be provided

· Ongoing support and regular 1 to 1s

· Opportunities to attend volunteer meetings and events

· You will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check

· Additional checks may be required for individual RAF Stations

· Two references will be required
 

Support young people to explore dance, drama, movement, and performance activities. Volunteers will assist with workshops, rehearsals, performances, games, and creative projects while helping to build confidence and participation. You will help create a positive environment where young people can express themselves, develop new skills, and enjoy performing arts.

Develop confidence, self-esteem, and communication skills Encourage creativity and self-expression Support teamwork and collaboration Help young people discover new talents and interests

The skills you'll need

• Interest in dance, drama, or performing arts
• Confidence engaging with groups of young people
• Positive and enthusiastic attitude
• Good communication skills
• Ability to encourage participation and creativity
• Reliability and teamwork

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

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

Join Vault Youth Zone as a Volunteer Youth Worker and help create a fun, welcoming, and engaging space for young people aged 8–19 (up to 25 for young people with additional needs). Volunteers support the Recreation & Engagement team in delivering activities such as pool, table tennis, board games, challenges, group discussions, themed projects, and social activities.

As a volunteer, you will help young people build confidence, make friends, develop new skills, and feel part of a positive community. You will encourage participation, promote our values, and act as a positive role model while working alongside our team of youth workers.

No previous youth work experience is required. Ongoing support and training will be provided.

Help young people feel safe, supported, and inspired. Build confidence, resilience, and social connections among young people. Create positive experiences that encourage personal development and wellbeing. Support an inclusive environment where young people can have fun, express themselves, and develop life skills.

You will need to have the following skills in order to participate:

• Positive and friendly attitude
• Good communication and listening skills
• Ability to engage and encourage young people
• Teamwork and reliability
• Enthusiasm for creating fun and inclusive activities
• Respect for diversity and inclusion
• Willingness to undertake training and follow safeguarding procedures

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

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

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

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

Closing date for these opportunities is: 30/09/2026

We'll invite you for a friendly chat to get to know you better and see how your skills and passion align with working with young people.

Support young people to create podcasts, interviews, recordings, and digital media projects. Volunteers will help facilitate discussions, encourage creativity, support technical activities, and assist young people in developing communication and storytelling skills.

Develop communication and digital media skills Encourage creativity and self-expression Build confidence through sharing ideas and opinions Support young people to develop transferable skills for education and employment

The skills you'll need

• Interest in media, podcasting, or recording
• Good communication and listening skills
• Creativity and enthusiasm
• Ability to encourage participation and discussion
• Basic digital skills (desirable)
• Teamwork and reliability

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

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

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

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

The skills you'll need

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

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

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