Youth children 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!
Who are we?
We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. We work to increase inclusion and representation across society for the disabled community.We have several different services including inclusive characters, sensory workshops, resources, events, advocacy and more.
What are we looking for?
Are you looking for a volunteering opportunity that you can do in your own time and without having to leave the comfort of the sofa? Do you have a good imagination? Are you interested in graphic design? Or have an artistic flair?
We have a range of creative projects and tasks and our creative team have more work than people. From helping to bring our characters and bubble world to life to helping with our rebrand project.
What do we expect?
- Be willing to undertake our training programme which will be done virtually and at a time to suit you.
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Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it please do discuss it with us and we will be happy to have a conversation and make small changes if appropriate).
- A positive attitude to disability and illness. We are happy to answer questions on this.
What can you expect?
- A community group that does not currently operate a rota system of any kind. Youdon’t have to regularly commit your time.
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A kind, caring, nurturing company who cares about people, staff and volunteers. Our aim is to keep your wellbeing at the centre of our work.
- A very positive and proactive approach to disability and illness. Any and all accommodations will be made that you require. If there is anything you wish to discuss in private please email us and we will arrange a confidential chat.
Benefits to Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles CIC
- Gaining valuable experience and improving your confidence
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Allows you to explore potentially different areas of interest.
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Make a difference to community
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Develop your current skill set and gain new skills.
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Displays your level of commitment to future employers.
- Displays your ability to balance and schedule your time effectively when seeking future employment.
For further information or to apply email us and we will be more than happy to have a chat.
Please note we are looking for volunteers who are based in the UK.
If you require any accommodations or adjustments please let us know. Any information provided will be in the strictest confidence.
To increase inclusion and representation across society for disabled families.
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!
The Children's Book Project is a national charity on a mission to tackle book poverty. We passionately believe that every child should have the opportunity to own a book and have, in the last year, celebrated gifting our 1 millionth book! We are looking for some wonderful volunteers to help us in managing book sorting and packing with a range of amazing corporate volunteers at our three HQs in Birmingham, Leeds and London.
We gift beautiful pre-loved and new books to schools and we gift within prison settings in order to reach children who may not otherwise have access to book ownership.
We are looking for volunteers in Birmingham, Leeds and London able to help us in the running of our book sorting days at each of our three HQs. Ideally you will be able to commit to 2-3 days per half term. (We work term-times only). Our hours are 10am - 2:30pm.
We work with a range of amazing corporate volunteer teams who come to organise, sort and then pack our books in preparation for delivery. These corporate days are always full of energy and fun and we are looking for energetic and passionate people to support these events as Volunteer Coordinators - helping to make sure that there is a warm welcome, a clear plan for the day and that our one-off visitors can contribute productively.
What is required:
- On average, a commitment to 2 days per half term
- Flexibility to travel to your local HQ for sorting and corporate volunteering days
- A can-do attitude and enjoyment of working as part of a team.
In return, you’ll get to be part of an extraordinary family of volunteers as we make a real and lasting difference to young lives – there is almost an immeasurable benefit to empowering a child to read for pleasure and we believe that no child should be denied access to a book through poverty. We would love your support!
The Children’s Book Project is a national grassroots charity on a mission to end book poverty.



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!
Overview:
The Administrator will play a vital role in supporting the smooth and efficient running of the organisation. This position involves handling administrative tasks, maintaining records, supporting communications, and assisting with event coordination. The role requires excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities:
General Administration:
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Maintain and update records, databases, and files.
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Handle correspondence, including emails and phone enquiries.
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Prepare reports, documents, and presentations as required.
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Support meeting coordination, including scheduling, agenda preparation, and minute-taking.
Financial & Office Support:
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Assist with processing invoices, expenses, and financial records.
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Monitor office supplies and place orders when necessary.
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Support the Head of Operations with budget tracking and financial documentation.
Event & Programme Support:
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Assist in organising events, workshops, and meetings.
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Coordinate logistics, including venue booking, catering, and materials.
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Support volunteer and participant communications.
Communications & Stakeholder Engagement:
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Maintain mailing lists and support donor communications.
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Assist in preparing newsletters, social media updates, and website content.
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Liaise with stakeholders, including funders, partners, and volunteers.
Qualifications & Skills:
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Previous experience in an administrative role.
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Strong organisational and time-management skills.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office and cloud-based tools
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Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
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A passion for nonprofit work and community engagement.
This role is ideal for a detail-oriented and proactive individual who enjoys providing essential support to ensure the smooth running of a charitable organisation.
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 Looking for 1 – 2 Exceptional Volunteers! Use your expertise to help shape the future of care for children and families who need us most. Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is recruiting Non-Executive Members for our Income Generation Committee – inspiring leaders who can bring sharp insight, sector know-how and big-picture thinking to drive our fundraising, marketing and communications strategies forward. If you are experienced in the charity sector, passionate about fundraising and ready to make a strategic impact that genuinely changes lives, we would love to hear from you.
Duties and Key responsibilities
- Provide strategic insight, constructive challenge and guidance across income and marketing priorities.
- Share sector knowledge to enhance the quality and effectiveness of the income portfolio.
- Support the development of ambitious, innovative and sustainable fundraising approaches.
- Champion best practice in fundraising and marketing.
- Work collaboratively with Trustees, senior leaders and fellow committee members.
Essential Skills and Experience
- Experienced in the non-profit sector, with substantial insight into the realities, challenges and opportunities of income generation today.
- Specialised in at least one (ideally more) of the following areas: Digital fundraising: digital acquisition, online giving, digital optimisation. Supporter journeys and engagement: insight-led supporter experience design. High-value fundraising and major campaigns: strategic planning, mobilisation, creative development, impact storytelling
- Forward-thinking: able to consider the bigger picture and ask the right questions to support informed decision-making.
- Collaborative and values-led, contributing constructively while upholding the organisation’s mission and values.
- Committed to volunteering, motivated to use their expertise to make a meaningful difference.
We believe every life-limited or dying child and their family should have the opportunity to make every moment count and get the support they need.
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 currently looking for a personal assistant to the charity's chair person.
Responsibilities typically include:
· Acting as a first point of contact for enquiries: (email/calendar management and managing diaries
· Typing, compiling, and preparing reports, presentations, and correspondence.
· Miscellaneous tasks to support the Chair
· Forming a relationship with our clients as they are part of the community.
Essential skills for this role are:
· Organisation skills: The ability to prioritise tasks, manage time, and keep track of deadlines is crucial.
· Communication skills: should be able to communicate effectively in writing.
· Attention to detail: the ability to pick up on small details can prevent costly mistakes from occurring.
· Problem-solving skills: the ability to identify and resolve problems quickly and efficiently.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause. The organisation has a warm and friendly atmosphere and will be extremely rewarding for the candidate.
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!
At our advice centres, advisers support families facing various challenges, helping them navigate the complex SEN system for their children and young people.
We’re looking for people who have:
- Demonstrable experience in applying for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and/or substantial experience supporting families through the appeals and tribunal process.
- Proven ability to manage cases independently and provide informed, accurate advice from the outset.
- While full training will be provided on our specific approach and family-support model, applicants are expected to bring a strong working knowledge of SEN processes and legislation.
- Applicants must be able to commit to attending and supporting the monthly advice centre prior to applying.
What you’ll gain:
- Access to LIVE webinars
- Vibrant volunteer community
- Valuable skills
- The chance to change lives!
COMMITMENT:
- 2 hours a month (term time only) for the Advice Centre
- CPD every 5-6 weeks
- Training program to be undertaken within 30 days of joining
Please apply by contacting admin
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’re looking for a few brilliant people to join us as Trustees at Harrogate Skills 4 Living — and if you care about inclusion, safeguarding, and good governance, you might be exactly who we need.
HS4L supports adults with learning disabilities and autism through a mix of learning programmes, a community café, a chocolate‑making social enterprise, a Day Service ,two residential care homes, and supported living flats. It’s a vibrant, hands‑on organisation with a big heart and a growing footprint.
As we plan for long‑term financial sustainability, we’re keen to bring in trustees with experience in areas like finance, HR, safeguarding, social care, digital, or social enterprise. Most of all, we’re looking for people who believe in safe, high‑quality support and want to help shape our future.
If that sounds like you — or someone you know — I’d love to chat.
Julia Moor CEO
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!
Honour Thy Woman provides survivor-centred Domestic Abuse Recovery Services for women and families across Gloucestershire.This is an important moment for our charity, and we are seeking someone who can help guide our future with skill, integrity, and commitment.
About Honour Thy Woman Group
Honour Thy Woman Group offers a wide range of support services designed to meet the emotional, practical, and social needs of women recovering from domestic abuse. Our programmes combine professional guidance with peer-led care, flexible delivery methods, and a focus on long-term wellbeing.
What will you be doing?
By sharing your professional skills and financial insight, you will help ensure we continue delivering personalised support, practical advice and ongoing care to the women and children we support.
Our new Treasurer will be a key member of the Board of Trustees, responsible for providing strategic financial oversight and ensuring that Honour Thy Woman Group manages its resources responsibly, transparently, and in line with UK charity law.
Our Treasurer will regularly report to the Board of Trustees on the organisation’s financial position and overall financial health. The Treasurer will also ensure that robust and appropriate financial controls, systems, and procedures are in place and operating effectively.
While the Treasurer holds specific responsibility for financial oversight, all Trustees remain jointly and severally responsible for the governance and administration of the Charity and share collective accountability and liability.
For full details, please request the application pack.
What are we are looking for?
We are looking for someone who shares our values and is ready to contribute their expertise to a collaborative and dedicated Board of Trustees. This is a chance to make a meaningful difference, while also gaining valuable governance experience and supporting the growth of a responsive, survivor-focused charity.
We’re seeking a new Treasurer with the following attributes:
· Financial literacy and confidence with budgets.
· Ability to interpret financial information and explain it clearly.
· A qualified accountant (or equivalent, qualified by experience), ideally with experience in charity finance. Training will be provided where experience of charity finance is not already in place.
· Strong attention to detail and organisational skills Integrity, independence, and sound judgement Commitment to the charity’s mission, values, and safeguarding standards.
As we recruit for our new Treasurer, we are particularly keen to attract candidates who share our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture and who are passionate about advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We are also committed to providing reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair and accessible recruitment process. Applicants are encouraged to let us know of any support needed to enable full participation.
As a small charity, Honour Thy Woman truly values the commitment, time, and expertise our Trustees bring. By joining our Trustee Board, you will benefit from:
· A warm, inclusive, and supportive introduction to the organisation.
· The fulfilment of making a genuine difference, helping ensure survivors across Gloucestershire and beyond access the support and services they need and deserve.
· The opportunity to play a key role in the next phase of development for a vital, survivor centred organisation.
· The chance to develop your leadership capabilities while gaining valuable governance experience.
· The power of working collaboratively to achieve more than could be achieved individually.
· A meaningful opportunity to apply your skills and experience within the voluntary sector.
What difference will you make?
As Treasurer, you will play a vital role in safeguarding the financial health of our organisation. Your professional insight will help us manage resources responsibly, strengthen our sustainability, and ensure that our services continue to reach those who need them most.
Time commitment
Attending 4 annual online Board meetings of an evening. Attendance of ad-hoc Advisory Group meetings and optional event attendance. Trustees should also allocate time to read and respond to emails.
The overall Time Commitment is estimated at approximately 8–10 hours per month, plus quarterly Board meetings.
The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting Honour Thy Woman with their Treasurer recruitment.
Please send applications and enquiries to the email address provided. To apply, please send a CV and covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills and experience would add value to our Board.
Please add anything else that you think is relevant to your application. This might include personal, organisational or counselling experience; paid or unpaid work etc. If you would like to talk to one of the TrusteeWorks team or our Founder before you apply, please contact the TrusteeWorks team to arrange it. We will be interviewing as we go and reserve the right to make an appointment before the deadline
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 looking for individuals who are passionate about increasing and representation for disabled families across society.
What do I have to do?
Attend meetings roughly four times a year to help steer the organisation towards its goals. And using your skill set to help grow and advance our non-profit.
Part of the fabric of Buttons & Bubbles that wherever possible people who volunteer and work with us have lived experience of disability and or illness, (including parents, carers, siblings and friends) This includes our board members.
If you would be interested in having more information about this opportunity or need the board member pack in a different format, please get in contact for an informal chat.
If you would like any reasonable adjustments to the interview process please let us know. Any information provided will be kept in the strictest confidence.
To increase inclusion and representation across society for disabled families.
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!
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:
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support the child/young person to experience enriching activities that contribute to their personal and cultural development
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engage in activities such as pursuing hobbies, meeting for meals, or socialising in a community setting
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listen to and support the young person, fostering a sense of safety and trust
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help the young person develop social skills and increase their involvement in their community
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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”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
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!
Are you a finance professional looking to make a tangible difference in the lives of young Londoners? By joining our Board, you will help shape financial strategy, strengthen organisational resilience, and ensure that CYP can continue to provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment for all its members.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Strategic Oversight: Monitor the financial health of the project and report to the Board.
- Budgeting: Oversea annual budgets and ensure we stay on track.
- Compliance: Oversee annual accounts and ensure we meet Charity Commission/Companies House requirements.
- Mentorship: (Optional but great) Occasionally advise our young leaders on basic financial literacy or project budgeting.
WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
We need someone who is organised, communicative, and shares our values.
- Financial Expertise: A background in accounting, bookkeeping, or financial management (qualified or part-qualified is a plus).
- London Local: Someone who understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing young people in London today.
- Clarity: The ability to explain financial matters to non-finance trustees in plain English.
- Commitment: A desire to help a small, high-impact organisation scale sustainably.
WHY JOIN US?
- Make an Impact: Directly influence the success of a project that changes lives in your community.
- Governance Experience: Build your CV with high-level Board experience.
- Networking: Connect with a diverse group of passionate professionals and community leaders.
In the covering letter please outlinine your relevant skills, experience & suitability for the role.
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!
Varndean Governors are seeking committed individuals to join their effective cohesive team of people to hold the school to account, to shape the vision of the school and to set the strategic direction.
At Varndean School we firmly believe that our Governing Body should reflect the rich diversity of our community, that we proudly serve. We are committed to creating an exclusive school and to provide diverse role models for our young people.
To uphold this commitment we have collected a range of diversity data from the current Board membership to inform our recruitment process. We may also collect data from anyone applying to be a Governor to ensure that we have an array of perspectives and skills around the governing table.
Varndean School is a truly exciting school to be involved in as a governor. Our aim is that all our students should leave us equipped to achieve their full potential – in whatever field they choose. Underpinning this vision is our rich and varied curriculum, our stimulating range of out of school activities and our unique schools within a school structure. This structure creates a caring community in which students can thrive and is frequently mentioned by parents as one of the key reasons they choose Varndean.
Our governors have a wide range of experience, but all share a commitment to helping the school’s dedicated staff deliver this vision.
Although governors are volunteers, excellent support and development opportunities are provided through an induction process and full programme of training both face-to-face and online to suit individual needs. There are also opportunities to volunteer alongside experienced governors and to take on a responsibility for an area of the school improvement plan. We don’t expect you to be an expert in education and welcome governors from all walks of life to bring different perspectives and views. You just need to be committed to supporting our vision for the school community and the educational outcomes of our students.
Our school is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in our care and you will be expected to share this commitment. All Governors will be subject to an enhanced DBS check on appointment.
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 reopening this role to applicants having paused for some months. The Operations Lead will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of Path to Prosper’s activities. As Operations Lead, you will lead in various administrative, logistical, and operational tasks, enabling the CEO, Board and Operations Team to maximise the charity’s impact. We will also carve out projects for the Operations Lead to run or support on to provide further opportunity for personal growth and support Path to Prosper’s mission and growth. This position is ideal for someone with strong organisational skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
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!
Are you a HR professional? Could you give an hour a week to tackle pregnancy and maternity discrimination? Then we need you!
We’re not going to sugar-coat it, things aren’t great for working parents and pregnant women. It can feel frustrating and a bit depressing at times, but by being part of the Pregnant Then Screwed volunteer team, you get to turn that frustration into something positive. In the last year the fantastic volunteers on our Advice Line have spoken to over 5000 women and parents, collectively providing around 40 hours of free support and advice every week. Hundreds of women and parents call our Advice Line every day, but with a small team of volunteers we are only able to answer a fraction of those calls—this is where you come in.
We are looking for brilliant HR professionals who want to help Pregnant Then Screwed tackle the Motherhood Penalty by becoming a Volunteer HR Advisor.
Our Volunteer Advisors give around 1-2 hours a week of their time to the Advice Line. They use their HR knowledge to offer a kind, empathetic support and advice to help people to identify and challenge pregnancy and maternity discrimination in the workplace.
About the role
Role Title: Volunteer HR Advisor
Location: Home-based (UK)
Reporting To: Head of Support Services
Time Commitment
The Advice Line is open Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm, with various available shifts during those times. We ask volunteers to give 1-2 hours per week on the Advice Line for a minimum of three months.
Alternative time commitments can be considered and discussed as part of your application, so please do include any information that might be useful in your application form.
Main Role Purpose
The Advice Line HR Advisors play a vital role in providing support and guidance to working parents facing unfair treatment or discrimination in the workplace via our advice line. Volunteers will offer advice, listen empathetically, and provide information about employee rights and available resources. This role is critical in empowering parents to make informed decisions and navigate workplace challenges effectively.
Essential requirements
- Minimum CIPD level 5 Diploma in People Management with one professional reference.
- Knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and policies related to pregnancy, maternity leave, and discrimination.
- Access to a mobile phone/laptop/tablet to receive calls. You will not be charged for calls and your number will not be shared.
- Access to a reliable and secure WIFI connection. Public WIFI is not suitable for this role.
- Excellent active and empathetic listening skills.
- Good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey information clearly and concisely.
- A kind and welcoming telephone manner.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
- Comfortable using online communication tools.
Key Responsibilities
- Answer incoming phone calls to the PTS Advice Line from individuals seeking support and advice.
- Listen actively, empathise, and provide HR advice and guidance to support callers with their enquiries.
- Signpost to further information and other support organisations if necessary.
- Make referrals to our legal partner if required.
- Record all details of the call on our CRM system.
- Maintain professionalism in all interactions, adhering to all Pregnant Then Screwed guidelines and policies.
What you can expect from PTS
- The opportunity to use your skill set to tackle the Motherhood Penalty and make a meaningful impact.
- An onboarding and induction period which can be completed at your own pace.
- Support from the PTS staff team and volunteer network.
- Access to our Volunteer Training Hub.
- Opportunities to help us further develop and shape our Support Services.
Charity working to end the motherhood penalty.
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!
INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE)
CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings
About CARAS:
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.
Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.
We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.
Our values are at the centre of all our work:
• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests.
• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society.
• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes.
• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do.
About Youth ESOL:
Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.
About the Role:
CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.
The reading group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the reading group sessions are as follows:
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Monday afternoons 2pm to 3pm
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Wednesday mornings 11am to 1pm.
Volunteers are required to attend either one of both sessions. Volunteers are also welcome to stay and support the more traditional English language classes either before the reading session on Mondays or after the reading session on Wednesdays.
Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.
The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.
The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.
Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.
Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.
Volunteer tasks and responsibilities:
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Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions;
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Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;
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Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;
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Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;
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Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;
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Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project;
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Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;
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Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;
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Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom;
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Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements:
Essential
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To be 18 years or older;
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An interest in education and English language teaching;
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Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status
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* Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.
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Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role
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Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed);
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To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds;
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To be reliable and punctual;
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Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;
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An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry
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The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months;
Desirable:
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Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish;
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Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics.
Through volunteering with us you will:
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Gain experience of English language teaching;
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Meet new members of your local community;
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Learn about different cultures;
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Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum;
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Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;
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Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English;
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Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training.
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Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering.
We provide firm foundations for new-arrival asylum seekers to build happy and successful lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.