Youth work volunteer roles

Organisation: Make a Smile
Location: Remote (with opportunities for in-person collaboration depending on projects)
Commitment: Flexible, approx. 4–6 hours per week

About Make a Smile

At Make a Smile, we believe in creativity and innovation to ensure children and volunteers alike have the best experience possible. We’re constantly looking for fresh, forward-thinking ideas to improve how we work, and our Innovations Officers play a vital role in bringing those ideas to life.

The Role

As an Innovations Officer, you’ll take the lead on a unique innovation project—overseeing it from idea to reality. Each project is designed to keep our charity current, exciting, and impactful, whether that’s through new activities, resources, or systems that improve how we operate.

You’ll work with and manage a dedicated Innovations Subcommittee, guiding the project through planning, testing, reviewing, and rolling out across chapters. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who enjoys problem-solving, project management, and bringing creative ideas to life.

The Innovations Officer will:

• Create a clear project outline (aims, budget, timeline, required skills, and success criteria).

• Recruit and manage a subcommittee, ensuring the right mix of skills to make the project a success.

• Oversee project administration, including risk assessments, task logs, and reflection templates.

• Design, test, and pilot the project, gathering feedback from volunteers and chapters.

• Evaluate and improve the project through multiple testing rounds before rollout.

• Support full implementation, ensuring it becomes embedded into the charity’s work.

• Keep trustees updated with regular progress reports and updates at leadership meetings.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong organisational and project management skills.

• Creativity and a problem-solving mindset.

• Ability to lead and support a team of volunteers.

• Willingness to adapt, reflect, and improve upon feedback.

• An interest in developing new ideas and approaches.

• No specific technical background is required—just enthusiasm and commitment!

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience managing a project from start to finish.

• Skills in leadership, delegation, and innovation.

• The chance to bring your ideas to life and see them make a real difference.

• A collaborative, supportive environment with other volunteers.

Time Commitment

This role is flexible and can be done remotely. We ask for around 4–6 hours per week, though this may vary depending on the stage of your project.

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!

Volunteer Bid Writer – Children With Voices

Position Overview:

Children With Voices, a dynamic and community-driven charity committed to supporting vulnerable individuals and families, is seeking a motivated and skilled Volunteer Bid Writer. This role is instrumental in securing funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to ensure the continuous growth and success of the charity's initiatives.

Responsibilities:

1. Research and Identify Funding Opportunities:

  - Conduct thorough research to identify potential funding sources, grants, and partnership opportunities aligned with Children With Voices' mission and projects.

2. Proposal Development:

  - Collaborate with the charity's leadership team to gather information on projects and programs requiring funding.

  - Develop compelling and well-articulated grant proposals, ensuring alignment with donor guidelines and requirements.

  - Craft persuasive narratives that effectively communicate the impact of Children With Voices' activities.

3. Grant Application Submission:

  - Prepare and submit grant applications within specified deadlines, adhering to all application guidelines and requirements.

  - Maintain accurate records of submitted proposals, deadlines, and communication with funding bodies.

4. Relationship Building:

  - Establish and maintain positive relationships with potential donors, grant-making organisations, and other stakeholders.

  - Engage in effective communication to convey the charity's mission and project goals.

5. Collaboration and Coordination:

  - Work closely with the fundraising team and project managers to gather necessary information for proposals.

  - Collaborate with other team members to ensure the integration of programmatic and financial data in grant applications.

Qualifications:

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

- Previous experience in grant writing, proposal development, or related fields is desirable.

- Strong research skills to identify relevant funding opportunities.

- Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.

- Detail-oriented with strong organisational and project management skills.

- Passion for the mission and values of Children With Voices.

Time Commitment:

Flexible, with an estimated commitment of 5-10 hours per week.

Location:

This role can be performed remotely, with occasional virtual or in-person meetings as needed.

Benefits:

- Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause and make a positive impact.

- Gain valuable experience in grant writing and fundraising within a charitable organisation.

- Develop and enhance your skills in communication, research, and project coordination.

- Travel expenses are paid and you will have a healthy meal!

Become the Volunteer Who Helps Launch a Movement

Join Unlock YOUR Potential and help build a charity that breaks barriers and transforms futures

At Unlock YOUR Potential, we believe that an accident of birth should never define a person’s destiny. Talent is everywhere — opportunity is not. We exist to change that.

We’re building a new social‑mobility charity dedicated to empowering adults from low‑income backgrounds and communities facing the highest levels of deprivation. Through holistic employability, wellbeing and mentoring programmes, we’re here to break cycles, open doors, and unlock the potential that has always been there.

We’re focusing our work in areas ranked among the top 10% most deprived in the UK for employment and skills. The need is urgent. The barriers are real. But the opportunity for impact is extraordinary.

And this is where you come in......

Volunteer Project Manager (Short‑Term, High‑Impact Role)

Help us build a charity from the ground up

We’re looking for a proactive, organised and mission‑driven Volunteer Project Manager to help us set up and launch our new charity. This is a rare chance to be the first operational volunteer joining the Founder and a small team of designers at the earliest, most exciting stage of our journey.

This is not just a role — it’s a chance to shape the foundations of an organisation that will support thousands of adults across the UK.

You will work directly with the Founder to:

• Build clear project plans, timelines and action lists for our launch

• Create simple, effective early systems, workflows and operational processes

• Track progress, identify risks and keep the Founder focused on what matters most

• Coordinate tasks across design, operations, service development and early marketing

• Support the recruitment of our wider volunteer team

• Influence the structure, strategy and foundations of a brand‑new social‑mobility charity

Your work will directly determine how quickly we can begin delivering life‑changing support to adults who face the highest barriers to employment and skills.

Who we’re looking for

You’ll thrive in this role if you are:

• Experienced in project management, operations or organisational planning

• Someone who brings structure, clarity and calm to fast‑moving environments

• A builder — someone who enjoys creating order from ambiguity

• Deeply passionate about fairness, opportunity and social mobility

• Able to commit time over the next few weeks or months to help us reach launch

If you choose to stay on after the launch, we’d love that — but this particular project is focused on the start‑up phase.

Why this role matters

This is your chance to be part of something at the moment it begins. You won’t just be managing tasks — you’ll be shaping a charity designed to unlock potential for people who have been overlooked for far too long.

1. If you want to use your skills to create real, lasting social impact…
2. If you want to help build something meaningful from the ground up…
3. If you believe that where someone starts should never limit where they can go…

We’d love to hear from you.

Overview of the role

Play2Give is seeking a technically confident volunteer to support a project to design and set up the charity’s digital workspace using Microsoft 365 and SharePoint. This role is ideal for someone with experience in Microsoft 365 administration, SharePoint configuration, or IT systems setup who wants to make a meaningful contribution in a focused, time‑limited way.

You will work closely with the IT Officer and Business and Operations Manager to create a well‑organised, secure, and easy‑to-use digital environment that supports our volunteers and improves how we collaborate.

What you will do

SharePoint Structure & Setup

• Create a clear, intuitive SharePoint architecture aligned to Play2Give’s new organisational structure.
• Build document libraries, folders, and metadata to support efficient file storage and retrieval.
• Set up site navigation, permissions, and access controls.
• Implement naming conventions and templates for consistency.

Microsoft 365 Configuration

• Review and optimise Teams channels and integration with SharePoint.
• Help organise Microsoft Lists (volunteers, tasks, risk register, partnerships etc.).
• Assist with setting up Microsoft Forms for internal processes.
• Support basic automation opportunities using Power Automate (optional).

Documentation & Handover

• Produce a simple user guide for volunteers on how to use SharePoint and related tools.
• Provide a handover briefing to the IT Officer so ongoing maintenance is smooth.
• Make recommendations for future improvements or training needs.

What you will bring

• Practical experience with SharePoint site creation and/or Microsoft 365 configuration.
• Good understanding of document management, permissions, and user access.
• Ability to create simple, user-friendly structures and workflows.
• Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills.
• Confidence working independently on a defined project.
• A desire to support a charity making a positive community impact.

What you will gain

• A chance to make a big difference in a short period of time.
• Project experience in a charity environment.
• An opportunity to shape digital systems that volunteers rely on every day.
• A reference or LinkedIn recommendation if helpful.

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:

• Maintain and update records, databases, and files.

• Handle correspondence, including emails and phone enquiries.

• Prepare reports, documents, and presentations as required.

• Support meeting coordination, including scheduling, agenda preparation, and minute-taking.

Financial & Office Support:

• Assist with processing invoices, expenses, and financial records.

• Monitor office supplies and place orders when necessary.

• Support the Head of Operations with budget tracking and financial documentation.

Event & Programme Support:

• Assist in organising events, workshops, and meetings.

• Coordinate logistics, including venue booking, catering, and materials.

• Support volunteer and participant communications.

Communications & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Maintain mailing lists and support donor communications.

• Assist in preparing newsletters, social media updates, and website content.

• Liaise with stakeholders, including funders, partners, and volunteers.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Previous experience in an administrative role.

• Strong organisational and time-management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and cloud-based tools

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

• 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.

Can you help us identify and prepare great items for sale online for a few hours a week in our Keswick shop? 

We need help for between 2 and 4 hours on any day of the week that suits you. Join our friendly volunteer team and help make a real difference to children's lives. 

What will I be doing?  

Typical things you might be doing in the shop include: 

• Sorting through incoming donations and selecting high value and quality items for sale online 

• Researching valuable items 

• Preparing, photographing and listing items for sale 

• Packing up sold items 

• Upholding the inclusive values of The Children’s Society 

What will I get? 

• Full training - no previous experience required 

• Free tea, coffee and biscuits 

• A reference

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses

• Free confidential counselling helpline available 

You don't need any previous experience to volunteer in our shops, but you will need to be: 

• Supportive, polite and helpful to customers, other volunteers and staff 

• Reliable and punctual 

• Able to volunteer as part of a team 

• Able to follow pricing guidelines and health and safety practice (training will be provided)

• Willing to support the work and policies of The Children’s Society and its values

What's next? 

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer in our shops, we will ask you to take part in a trial shift so you can find out more about the role and we can find out more about you.

We will then ask we will ask for you to complete a short information form, including providing at least two references covering the last two years. 

Do you have a passion for fashion and a creative eye for detail? 

Can you help us keep our windows and in store displays looking great for a few hours a week in our Keswick shop? 

We need help for between 2 and 4 hours on any day of the week that suits you. Join our friendly volunteer team and help make a real difference to children's lives. 

What will I be doing?  

• Designing and making great window displays to attract customers into the shop 

• Creating attractive displays in store 

• Identifying and selecting desirable items for displays 

• Restocking the shop floor to make it look interesting 

• Upholding the inclusive values of The Children’s Society 

What will I get? 

• Full training - no previous experience required 

• Free tea, coffee and biscuits 

• A reference

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses

• Free confidential counselling helpline available 

You don't need any previous experience to volunteer in our shops, but you will need to be: 

• Supportive, polite and helpful to customers, other volunteers and staff 

• Reliable and punctual 

• Able to volunteer as part of a team 

• Able to follow pricing guidelines and health and safety practice (training will be provided)

• Willing to support the work and policies of The Children’s Society and its values

What's next? 

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer in our shops, we will ask you to take part in a trial shift so you can find out more about the role and we can find out more about you.

We will then ask we will ask for you to complete a short information form, including providing at least two references covering the last two years. 

Organisation: Make a Smile
Location: Remote - UK-based (with opportunities for occasional in-person involvement)
Commitment: Flexible, approx. 4–6 hours per week

About Make a Smile

At Make a Smile, we believe every volunteer should feel supported, valued, and empowered. Our volunteers are the heart of our charity, and we work hard to break down barriers so that everyone—no matter their background—can get involved and make a difference to children’s lives.

The Role

The Supporting Chapter Manager provides support to Chapter that are deemed to be struggling. They should assess chapters frequently to ensure they have a clear awareness of what a chapter requires support, in addition to input from other Trustees. They will then provide hands on support to the struggling chapters with focus on recruitment, events and costumes. 

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in volunteer management and co-ordination.

• The chance to make a lasting impact in the areas needing the most support.

• Opportunities to develop leadership, communication, and management.

• The satisfaction of knowing you’re helping volunteers feel supported, engaged, and empowered.

Time Commitment

This role is flexible and can be done remotely. We ask for around 4–6 hours per week, though this may vary depending on activities or events.

Can you help us look for treasure and sort our donations in our stock room for a few hours a week in our Keswick shop? 

We need help for between 2 and 4 hours on any day of the week that suits you. Join our friendly volunteer team and help make a real difference to children's lives. 

What will I be doing?  

• Sorting through incoming donations and selecting good quality items for sale 

• Preparing items by tagging, hanging and steaming ready for the shop floor 

• Taking to donors about Gift Aid to help us raise more funds 

• Restocking the shelves and making the shop floor look attractive and inviting 

• Upholding the inclusive values of The Children’s Society 

What will I get? 

• Full training - no previous experience required 

• Free tea, coffee and biscuits 

• A reference

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses

• Free confidential counselling helpline available 

You don't need any previous experience to volunteer in our shops, but you will need to be: 

• Supportive, polite and helpful to customers, other volunteers and staff 

• Reliable and punctual 

• Able to volunteer as part of a team 

• Able to follow pricing guidelines and health and safety practice (training will be provided)

• Willing to support the work and policies of The Children’s Society and its values

What's next? 

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer in our shops, we will ask you to take part in a trial shift so you can find out more about the role and we can find out more about you.

We will then ask we will ask for you to complete a short information form, including providing at least two references covering the last two years. 

Can you help deliver great customer service for a few hours a week in our Keswick shop? 

We need help for between 2 and 4 hours on any day of the week (excluding Sundays) that suits you. Join our friendly volunteer team and help make a real difference to children's lives. 

What will I be doing?  

• Serving customers in a helpful and friendly way 

• Using the till to make sales 

• Telling customers about gift aid to help us raise more funds 

• Restocking the shelves and making the shop floor look attractive and inviting 

• Upholding the inclusive values of The Children’s Society 

What will I get? 

• Full training - no previous experience required 

• Free tea, coffee and biscuits 

• A reference

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses

• Free confidential counselling helpline available 

You don't need any previous experience to volunteer in our shops, but you will need to be: 

• Supportive, polite and helpful to customers, other volunteers and staff 

• Reliable and punctual 

• Able to volunteer as part of a team 

• Able to follow pricing guidelines and health and safety practice (training will be provided)

• Willing to support the work and policies of The Children’s Society and its values

What's next? 

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer in our shops, we will ask you to take part in a trial shift so you can find out more about the role and we can find out more about you.

We will then ask we will ask for you to complete a short information form, including providing at least two references covering the last two years. 

Equal Aqua is seeking a Trustee with significant fundraising expertise to provide strategic leadership and hands-on support to drive substantial income growth as the organisation scales towards a seven-figure annual income. The role involves actively leveraging networks to open doors to major donors, corporate partners and grant-makers, initiating high-value funding conversations and developing new income streams. The Trustee will help shape and oversee the organisation’s long-term fundraising strategy, support the cultivation and conversion of major funding opportunities, mentor the fundraising team and strengthen proposals and donor engagement. Acting as an ambassador for the organisation, they will also help raise Equal Aqua’s profile within influential networks while ensuring strong governance, accountability and performance through the Board and Fundraising Committee. The ideal candidate will bring senior-level fundraising experience, strong sector knowledge in areas such as WASH, climate or international development, and a network capable of unlocking significant new funding opportunities.

Equal Aqua is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in the UK; Equal Aqua Uganda is a registered Community Based Organisation (CBO) in Uganda (‘EAU’ refers to both). Both operate equally and in unison. The purpose of EAU is to enable communities in Uganda to have access to safe and sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities. EAU supports schools and communities facing the greatest WASH inequalities by providing water tanks and filters, running classes and workshops, and empowering young people to be WASH change makers in their community. The current Board of Trustees, consisting of 5 members based in UK and Uganda, provides guidance to the volunteer EAU management team as well as supporting the implementing volunteers based in UK, Uganda and other countries.

The objectives of EAU are, in Uganda, to:

1. To improve access to safe and sustainable WASH for those facing the greatest inequalities in Uganda

2. To strengthen the participation of local communities in WASH, in particular women and girls, and displaced peoples

3. To take action to protect the natural environment, reduce pollution and tackle climate change

The role of trustees is:

1. Sculpt and maintain EAU’s vision, mission, objectives and values.

2. Act as ‘critical friends’ in the development of EAU’s policy, programming and planning.

3. Actively champion EAU externally, opening doors to people and organisations that can support our cause, fostering awareness and engagement in the UK, Uganda and internationally.

4. Support in particular with income generation activities, advising and supporting delivery of major campaigns and helping to build EAU’s donor and partner base.

5. Establish and maintain systems for reporting and monitoring.

6. Ensure that the financial affairs of the organisation are conducted properly and are accurately reported.

7. Manage risk and ensure compliance and accountability with the governing document (EAU Constitution), external regulators and the law (UK and Uganda).

8. Safeguard EAU’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation.

Ensure EAU has the appropriate structure and resources to deliver the above.

Trustee Responsibilities:

1. To attend and contribute to EAU Board of Trustee meetings, held at least on a quarterly basis. To work with EAU management to set an agenda in advance of this meeting.

2. Currently, Trustees will hold the position for a maximum of 3 years. This length of trusteeship will be reviewed with the aim of staggering Trustee terms to ensure a smooth transition between board members.

3. To support the recruitment of additional trustees, from diverse backgrounds and providing a range of expertise.

4. To offer personal expertise and skills in select areas for the benefit of EAU. This may include legal, management, practical, fundraising, marketing or other relevant areas.

5. To offer advice and feedback on EAU’s main fundraising programmes, e.g. events and grant applications.

Additional Responsibilities of Trustee with fundraising expertise

To provide strategic leadership and hands-on support to drive significant and sustainable income growth for Equal Aqua, with the ambition of building towards a seven-figure annual income.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Fundraising Leadership
   Provide Board-level oversight and strategic direction for the development and execution of an ambitious, multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with EAU’s growth plans, ensuring clear pathways to seven-figure annual income.
2. Active Income Generation & Network Mobilisation
   Proactively generate income by leveraging personal and professional networks to:
   • Open doors to high-value donors, grant-makers, corporates and philanthropic partners
   • Introduce EAU to influential individuals and decision-makers
   • Initiate and nurture strategic funding conversations
   • Identify and pursue new income streams and partnership opportunities

This role requires active relationship-building and direct contribution to income growth, not solely advisory input.

1. Pipeline Development & High-Value Fundraising
   Support the identification, cultivation and conversion of major funding opportunities, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships and major donors. Where appropriate, personally lead or co-lead high-value approaches.
2. Committee Leadership & Support
   Provide experienced guidance to the Fundraising Committee and fundraising volunteers, strengthening capability, confidence and performance across the team.
3. Hands-On Mentorship & Quality Assurance
   Offer practical, hands-on support to fundraising volunteers, including:
   • Reviewing and strengthening proposals and pitch materials
   • Advising on donor strategy and positioning
   • Supporting preparation for high-stakes meetings and presentations
4. Visibility & Advocacy
   Act as an ambassador for EAU, raising the organisation’s profile in relevant networks, events and forums, and positioning EAU as a credible, high-impact partner.
5. Governance & Accountability
   Attend quarterly Fundraising Committee meetings (one of EAU’s management committees) and relevant Board meetings, ensuring clear income targets, performance monitoring and accountability for results.

Desired Background and expertise of Trustee with Fundraising expertise.

 Senior Fundraising Experience

• A substantial track record (ideally 5+ years) in charity fundraising, with experience operating at a strategic level. This should include demonstrable success in securing significant income from one or more of the following: trusts and foundations, major donors, corporate partnerships, institutional funders or high-net-worth individuals. Experience supporting organisations through periods of income growth or scale-up is highly desirable. International development experience is strongly preferred.

• Sector-Relevant Knowledge
  Strong understanding of fundraising dynamics and donor priorities within one or more of Equal Aqua’s core thematic areas, including:
  • WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene)
  • Climate and environmental sustainability
  • Menstrual health and gender equality
  • Rural enterprise and livelihoods
  • International development

Familiarity with the funding landscape in these sectors – including trends, key funders and partnership models – would be a significant advantage.

• Network & Influence
  An established professional network that can be activated in support of Equal Aqua’s growth ambitions, with the credibility and confidence to engage senior decision-makers and prospective funders.

• Strategic & Commercial Acumen
  The ability to think entrepreneurially about income generation, identify new revenue opportunities, and contribute to building a diversified and resilient funding portfolio.

Can you help us keep our book department looking great for a few hours a week in our Keswick shop? 

We need help for between 2 and 4 hours on any day of the week that suits you. Join our friendly volunteer team and help make a real difference to children's lives. 

What will I be doing?  

• Sorting through incoming donations and selecting good quality books for sale 

• Preparing books for the shop floor by labelling and pricing 

• Rotating and restocking the shelves and making the book department look attractive and inviting 

• Researching valuable books and preparing for sale in the shop or online 

• Taking to donors about Gift Aid to help us raise more funds 

• Upholding the inclusive values of The Children’s Society 

What will I get? 

• Full training - no previous experience required 

• Free tea, coffee and biscuits 

• A reference

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses

• Free confidential counselling helpline available 

You don't need any previous experience to volunteer in our shops, but you will need to be: 

• Supportive, polite and helpful to customers, other volunteers and staff 

• Reliable and punctual 

• Able to volunteer as part of a team 

• Able to follow pricing guidelines and health and safety practice (training will be provided)

• Willing to support the work and policies of The Children’s Society and its values

What's next? 

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer in our shops, we will ask you to take part in a trial shift so you can find out more about the role and we can find out more about you.

We will then ask we will ask for you to complete a short information form, including providing at least two references covering the last two years.