Volunteer roles in Bedfordshire

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Designated Safeguarding Lead

AuDHD UK

Location: Remote (UK-based)

Reports to: CEO/COO

Commitment: Flexible, part-time (details negotiable)

Role: Unpaid volunteer position

Purpose: To ensure AuDHD UK upholds the highest safeguarding standards, protecting children, young people, and adults at risk. The DSL will oversee safeguarding policies, training, compliance, and case management across the organisation.

The DSL position does not require daily volunteering, but would require timely responses from queries raised by the safeguarding team. 

As a Key Staff member within AuDHD UK, the DSL will be required to provide weekly updates to the COO/CEO regarding safeguarding case management of beneficiaries using AuDHD UK services and are expected to be able to ensure the wider safeguarding team feel supported in their roles. Ideal candidates would be free on Wednesdays at 12-1pm to attend our weekly Key Staff meetings, although this is not essential if the right candidate is unavailable during this time. 

This role requires an Enhanced Adult DBS - please only apply if you meet the requirements for a DBS check to be carried out (a 5 year UK address history with a maximum of 12 months abroad AND a biometric passport/ID card for an online ID check). 

Key Responsibilities

Safeguarding Case Management

• Act as the central point of contact for safeguarding concerns and external escalations.

• Respond to incidents and provide clear advice to staff and volunteers.

• Manage referrals and liaise with statutory agencies when needed.

Risk Assessment & Policy Oversight

• Lead on risk assessments and ensure proportionate responses to concerns.

• Review and update AuDHD UK’s Safeguarding Framework and related policies.

• Ensure safeguarding pathways are clear, accessible, and consistently followed.

Compliance & Governance

• Monitor compliance with safeguarding legislation and guidance.

• Maintain accurate and confidential safeguarding records.

• Contribute to audits, reviews, and continuous improvement activities.

Training & Awareness

• Deliver in-house safeguarding training for all staff and volunteers.

• Promote a culture of vigilance, accountability, and reflective practice.

Collaboration & Leadership

• Work with the CEO, COO, trustees, Clinical Lead, and Care Coordinator to align safeguarding with organisational goals.

• Bring safeguarding expertise into strategic planning and service design.

Essential Skills & Attributes

• Recognised safeguarding training or substantial safeguarding experience.

• Strong knowledge of safeguarding law, statutory guidance, and best practice.

• Sound judgment, discretion, and empathy in complex situations.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to remain calm under pressure and respond appropriately to sensitive cases.

• Commitment to AuDHD UK’s mission and values.

• Lived experience of AuDHD (desired).

Time Commitment Estimate

• Safeguarding case management including external escalations : 2–4 hrs/week (variable depending on incidents)

• Risk assessment external escalation: 1-3 hours a week (this may be increased at times of increased activity within the charity e.g. before the beginning of Peer Support Cohort assignments

• Policy framework updates: 4–6 hrs/quarter

• Training and team awareness: 2–3 hrs/quarter

• Safeguarding audits, governance, and meetings: 2–4 hrs/quarter

Mission Alignment Requirements

All applicants must demonstrate:

• Understanding of AuDHD UK’s core purpose.

• Commitment to volunteer-led service delivery.

• Adherence to safeguarding and ethical guidelines.

To apply: please submit your CV and a covering statement outlining why you would be the best candidate for this specific role.

Could you help bring moments of togetherness to families facing cancer? 

Families supported by Young Lives vs Cancer are going through some of the most challenging times of their lives. At Young Lives vs Cancer, we get that. We are a charity that helps children and young people (aged 0-24), and their families find the strength to face whatever cancer throws at them.  

As an Events Coordinator in the South West Social Work team, you will plan and coordinate a range of events throughout the year; working directly with the families we support and partner organisations. we hope to run events across the region including end‑of‑treatment celebration days, sibling days, festive events and bereavement support events 

What you give as a volunteer goes far beyond practical support; it’s reassurance, kindness, and hope at a time when it’s needed most. Your time and commitment can help make the cancer journey a little lighter and leave a lasting, positive impact on the families you support. 

What you’ll be doing 

We hope to carry out regular events across the whole region. Your help will be invaluable in achieving this. Your tasks will include: 

• Helping to organise, co-ordinate and run events. 

• Communication with invitees and organisations involved in the planning and facilitation of events. 

• Attendance of events as a welcoming presence; helping people feel comfortable, supported, and gently connected to one another. 

• Working alongside social workers as a valued member of the team and reporting back to your volunteer manager. 

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

Job description

Quilombo UK is looking for a Bid Writer (Grant & Funds), who loves to face work challenges; to join their growing team.

The Bid Writer (Grant & Funds) will play a critical role by assisting the manager to prepare the proposal that helps the organization to further develop and establish.

This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; love to 'give back to their community'. The role is for you if you are looking for flexibility and autonomy. Where necessary specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Apart from writing proposals, you will also be reviewing and editing previously written content wherever necessary.
• Working with other team members to produce bid responses and writings
• Helps in writing funding applications for the varied projects that we run in order to meet our organisational objectives.
• Also helps in presentations and all supporting documentation.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• You must be based in the UK
• You will need to have good written skills
• Able to write effective, concise and compelling content
• You will be self-starting and willing to research and look for new funding opportunities that match our aims and objectives;
• Ability to work on tight deadlines
• Well organized, proactive and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
• Able to speak confidently with a variety of stakeholders.
• Good time-management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and excel.
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.

The volunteering program with Quilombo UK requires a minimum of 16 weeks of commitment. We are looking for someone who can offer 12 hours a week, Monday - Friday (2 times a week).

Please note that this is a volunteering unpaid role.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Benefits: Work from home

Experience:

• Technical Writing: 2 years (preferred)

Work Location: Remote

Job description:

Job Title: Learning & Development Coordinator

Location: Remote (UK-based)

Department: People & Culture

Reports To: Manager: Learning & Development

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a trailblazing organisation dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. Rooted in a People First philosophy, we empower individuals and teams to drive systemic change through equitable learning and growth opportunities.

Role Overview

As the Learning & Development Co-ordinator, you will lead the design and delivery of impactful learning programs that align with QuilomboUK’s mission and strategic goals. You’ll develop leadership curricula, create engaging instructional materials, oversee induction training, and continuously refine L&D initiatives based on feedback and data. This role is ideal for a creative, data-driven professional passionate about fostering inclusive leadership and equipping teams with the skills to advance social justice.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership Development & Training

• Design and implement leadership training curricula, workshops, and coaching programs that cultivate inclusive, equitable, and socially conscious leaders.
• Partner with senior leaders to identify skill gaps and align learning and development (L&D) strategies with organisational objectives.
• Facilitate dynamic workshops on topics like anti-bias leadership, conflict resolution, and change management.

Instructional Design & Content Development

• Create engaging, accessible learning materials, including e-learning modules, facilitator guides, videos, and assessments, using tools like Articulate 360 or Adobe Captivate.
• Embed D&I principles and social justice themes into all content, ensuring cultural relevance and representation.
• Develop microlearning resources and toolkits to support continuous, self-directed learning in a remote environment.

AI-Enhanced Instructional Design

• Using various platforms, create dynamic, AI-generated content (e.g., simulations, scenario-based learning), and adaptive e-learning modules.
• Build AI-driven assessments and feedback loops to measure knowledge retention and behavioural change.

Onboarding & Integration

• Lead the design and delivery of induction programs that immerse new hires in QuilomboUK’s mission, values, and D&I commitments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure onboarding content reflects role-specific and cultural integration needs.
• Monitor new hire feedback to refine onboarding experiences and reduce time-to-productivity.

Training Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Measure training effectiveness using key performance indicators (KPIs) such as engagement rates, knowledge retention, and behavioural change.
• Analyse feedback surveys, LMS data, and performance metrics to identify gaps and iterate on content.
• Stay ahead of L&D trends (e.g., gamification, AI-driven learning) to innovate QuilomboUK’s programs.

D&I Integration

• Ensure all learning initiatives prioritise equity, cultural competence, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Partner with ERG (Employee Resource Group) leaders to co-create programs that address systemic inequities.
• Advocate for accessible learning design, including accommodations for neurodiverse individuals and those with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years in L&D, instructional design, or leadership development, ideally within mission-driven or D&I-focused organisations, with hands-on experience using AI tools.
• Skills:
• Expertise in e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate, Canva) and LMS platforms.
• Strong facilitation and storytelling skills for remote and hybrid audiences.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI) to measure program impact.
• Proficiency in prompt engineering for generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) to create scalable content.
• Knowledge:
• Deep understanding of adult learning theories, inclusive pedagogy, and social justice frameworks.
• Familiarity with UK compliance standards related to workplace training.
• Understanding of ethical AI frameworks, algorithmic bias mitigation, and GDPR-compliant AI use in HR.
• Familiarity with AI and how it can amplify (or hinder) equitable learning outcomes.
• Alignment: Passionate about QuilomboUK’s mission and the role of L&D in driving equitable change.

Personal Attributes

• A visionary thinker who balances creativity with analytical rigour.
• Collaborative bridge-builder who engages stakeholders at all levels.
• Adaptive and empathetic, with a knack for simplifying complex concepts.
• Committed to lifelong learning and amplifying underrepresented voices.

Job description:

We are looking for few candidates to join our volunteer human resource programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field. While we only have few vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria.

About the Role

The HR Programme Manager is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the HR Programme and managing the HR Liaison. This position ensures the successful delivery of the HR Programme, aligning it with organisational goals and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. The Programme Manager will work closely with senior leadership, Heads of Department (HoDs), and the HR Liaison to design, implement, and refine the programme, ensuring it meets the needs of participants and the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Oversight of the HR Programme

• Develop and execute the strategic vision for the HR Programme, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
• Collaborate with the Director: HRBP, Legal, IT & HR Programme to define programme goals, KPIs, and success metrics.
• Continuously evaluate and refine the programme to address emerging needs and industry trends.

2. Team Leadership & Management

• Manage and mentor the HR Liaison, providing guidance and support to ensure effective programme execution.
• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team culture, encouraging innovation and accountability.

3. Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Heads of Department (HoDs) and external partners to ensure programme relevance and impact.
• Act as the primary point of contact for senior stakeholders, providing regular updates on programme progress and outcomes.

4. Programme Design & Implementation

• Oversee the design and delivery of HR Programme content, ensuring it meets the developmental needs of participants.
• Coordinate with internal and external facilitators to deliver high-quality training sessions, workshops, and resources.
• Ensure the integration of feedback from participants and stakeholders to enhance programme effectiveness.

5. Monitoring & Evaluation

• Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track participant progress and programme impact.
• Analyse data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare comprehensive reports for senior leadership, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

6. Communication & Advocacy

• Promote the HR Programme across the organisation, ensuring high visibility and engagement.
• Develop communication strategies to highlight success stories and programme benefits.

Required Skills

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align the HR Programme with organisational goals and adapt to changing priorities.
• Leadership & Team Management: Proven experience in leading and mentoring teams to achieve results.
• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional relationship-building skills to engage and influence senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Project Management: Strong organisational skills to manage complex programmes, budgets, and timelines.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate programme vision and outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in programme management, learning and development, or a related field.
• Experience in designing and implementing professional development programmes.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Benefits:

• Work from home

Application question(s):

• Are you sure you can commit to this being a non-paid role?
• Can you commit to 16 weeks ?
• Do you have access to personal PC or laptop?

Work Location: Remote

Could you help your local SSAFA team recruit volunteers in your area? Our volunteers are at the heart of SSAFA’s work, and recruiting the right people is essential to delivering our services! As one of our Regional Recruitment volunteers, you’ll play a key role in onboarding new community engagement volunteers for local branches. By supporting the recruitment process and supporting prospective volunteers, you will help ensure branches have the people they need to raise awareness in their communities!

Some of the areas you may be asked to support include:

• Answer questions from perspective volunteers contact on our volunteer recruitment platform for enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Review applications via our online recruitment platform and arrange interviews with prospective volunteers in line with SSAFA’s policies and values.
• Assess the suitability of volunteer candidates in line with SSAFA’s policies and values and ensure they are placed in roles that are the right fit for them.
• Support volunteers through the recruitment process by requesting references, helping new volunteers to book role-specific and mandatory training.
• Arrange and liaise with the local branch to ensure that the new volunteer is properly inducted into their new role.

***Please be advised that this is role is part of an initial trial and your support will help ascertain if this is suitable for us to role out across all regions.

Requirements

You will need access to IT equipment such as a laptop and the internet to carry out the administration related to the role. Time commitment This role would suit someone looking for a role that can be done remotely from home weekly.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Ensuring an inclusive recruitment experience for all volunteers in line with SSAFA’s values.
• Strong admin and organisational skills.
• Interest in developing interviewing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Confident using IT Systems and online platforms.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others and make a difference
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising awareness of SSAFA.
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills in recruitment and administration which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

Could you help your local SSAFA team recruit volunteers in your area? Our volunteers are at the heart of SSAFA’s work, and recruiting the right people is essential to delivering our services! As one of our Regional Recruitment volunteers, you’ll play a key role in onboarding new community engagement volunteers for local branches. By supporting the recruitment process and supporting prospective volunteers, you will help ensure branches have the people they need to raise awareness in their communities!

Some of the areas you may be asked to support include:

• Answer questions from perspective volunteers contact on our volunteer recruitment platform for enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Review applications via our online recruitment platform and arrange interviews with prospective volunteers in line with SSAFA’s policies and values.
• Assess the suitability of volunteer candidates in line with SSAFA’s policies and values and ensure they are placed in roles that are the right fit for them.
• Support volunteers through the recruitment process by requesting references, helping new volunteers to book role-specific and mandatory training.
• Arrange and liaise with the local branch to ensure that the new volunteer is properly inducted into their new role.

***Please be advised that this is role is part of an initial trial and your support will help ascertain if this is suitable for us to role out across all regions.

Requirements

You will need access to IT equipment such as a laptop and the internet to carry out the administration related to the role. Time commitment This role would suit someone looking for a role that can be done remotely from home weekly.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Ensuring an inclusive recruitment experience for all volunteers in line with SSAFA’s values.
• Strong admin and organisational skills.
• Interest in developing interviewing skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Confident using IT Systems and online platforms.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others and make a difference
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising awareness of SSAFA.
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills in recruitment and administration which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

We are Social Link! An established and person-centred charity based in High Wycombe and Aylesbury providing a range of services for adults with learning disabilities, enabling them to meet new people, make new friends, develop skills for independence and enjoy stimulating activities. Our Team and Board at Social Link believe wholeheartedly in promoting the abilities of our members and providing opportunities for them to live life to their fullest potential.

Social Link are experiencing growth in the demand for their services due to the shortage of provisions for adults aged over 18 years living in the local area. We work with approximately 170 individuals and had an income of £536k in the 2024/25 financial year, just over 19% increase on the previous year. Due to our growth we are seeking a new Board member bringing new skills to contribute to our future success.

Our Board members are key to guiding, directing and safeguarding Social Link as a responsible and forward-thinking charity. We would like to increase the size of our current board to ensure that we have the necessary skills in-house for stability and responsiveness.

Meetings held at Social Link, YouthSpace, Desborough Street, High Wycombe, HP11 2RA, at other local venues and on via Zoom online conferencing. Fundraising events held at various locations across South Bucks.

Main tasks:

· To ensure that the charity and its representatives function within the law and in line with the Social Link policies.

· To maintain financial sustainability.

· Continually striving for best practice in governance that adds to client and public confidence and trust in the charity.

· To determine the overall direction and development of the charity through good governance and clear strategic planning.

• To maintain absolute confidentiality about all sensitive/confidential information received in the course of trustee’s responsibilities to the charity. 

Skills/Experience:

Ideally, the candidate will have:

·  Skills and experience in legal and charity governance

· Ability to work as part of a team

Good communication skills, both written and verbal.

What we can offer you: 

· Gain experience of working within a small but fast-growing charity

· Meet new people and build your own network

· An opportunity to give back to the community

· Gain insight into the challenges faced by adults with learning disabilities

· Provide a sense of accomplishment.

We’re looking for a creative and passionate Social Media Manager to grow our online presence, create engaging content, and support impactful campaigns across multiple platforms.

Join Activists Without Borders and help amplify campaigns for human rights, climate justice, nature, and global activism.

Requirements:
• Experience using Canva
• Basic video editing skills
• Familiarity with all major social media platforms
• Fluency in English

If you care about creating change through media and activism, we’d love to hear from you.

Send your CV and a short introduction, along with links to your creative work or social media channels you have managed.

Purpose of the Role

To join the board as a Volunteer Finanical Director, bringing governance knowledge and strategic thinking to strengthen board effectiveness, uphold the CIC's obligations, and ensure all decisions are made in the best interests of the community we serve.

Role and Responsibilities

1. Guide the Board

• Attend two to three board meetings per month, virtual or hybrid, and come prepared to contribute
• Help ensure decisions are made properly, recorded, and followed through
• Review and respond to decisions outside of meetings within 48 to 72 hours
• Support the review of policies and raise questions when something needs attention
• Support the development of projects and programmes by contributing ideas, strategic thinking, critical insight, and creative, innovative approaches, while bringing energy, boldness, and enthusiasm.

2. Keep Us on Track

• Contribute to strategic decision-making, policy approval, and organisational oversight
• Monitor organisational performance and support the Managing Director in delivery accountability
• Flag risks early and help ensure resources are used well and in line with our mission
• Keep the needs of the communities we serve at the centre of every decision

3. Be a Critical Friend

• Challenge and support the Managing Director with honesty and care
• Ask the questions that need to be asked, even when it is uncomfortable
• Help us grow in a way that is sustainable and grounded in our values

4. Champion What Matters

• Be an ambassador for Zion Wellness in how you show up and speak about us
• Participate in bi-directional mentorship exchanges with young people on the programme
• Ensure safeguarding, inclusion, and community interest are never an afterthought

What We Are Looking For

You will bring:

• A strong professional background in finance, budgeting, and strategic financial planning
• Confident, values-led leadership with the ability to represent the CIC's mission at board level
• A background in leadership, social impact, or community outreach
• Experience in creative direction, entrepreneurship, or project leadership
• Understanding of organisational strategy, stakeholder engagement, and partnership development
• A genuine commitment to systemic change and the communities we serve

It would be great if you also have:

• Governance experience such as trustee, governor, or board-level involvement, though this is not essential
• Experience in a charity, CIC, or grassroots organisation
• Training and induction will be provided for the right candidate

Please Note:  

This role is open to graduate and university students (aged 18+) who are looking to gain real leadership and governance experience. If you are early in your career and passionate about community impact, we want to hear from you. Ongoing support will be provided.

Would you like to become an Ambassador for knus? We've introduced our new arm-chairing volunteer position.

If you're interested arm-chair volunteering (our most flexible, low commitment role) and applying to volunteer at knus, simply read through the information on this page and apply.

• Are you over 18 and living in the UK? You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.
• Do you have a mobile phone or laptop? You can do this role whether you are, whether it be on a sofa or on a plane.
• How much time can you give? As much as you want to do. We are flexible and like to work around you.
• Do you like to learn? We provide training for all volunteers that join us. You'll have access to our courses to help you advance your knowledge and certificates to add to your CV.

How does it work?

In 2025 we launched our arm chair volunteering initiative to help us spread the word about our service and to give people the opportunity to take part in surveys and projects to help us deliver the best mental health support to the UK public.

We'd like to embrace what you love doing, whether that be sharing on socials, proof reading, surveys, sharing experiences or getting involved in our fabulous projects.

Important information:

In order to volunteer for knus as an ambassador, you will need to complete a brief application form and a ID check. A DBS is not required for this role, however, if you wish to progress to another role you may need a disclosure. We do this to ensure of service remains a safe place to volunteer for all. Please do not worry about this, we will help you as much as we can.

Training is provided by us and our training partners. You will be required to attend this training using online conferencing software such as zoom or teams.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility 

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

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

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility 

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

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

Volunteer positions currently available in Bedfordshire

Hospital Visitor Volunteer

Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.  The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.

This role entails weekly visits to either Townsend Court and Poplar Wards (Luton) on Fridays 1-4 or Fountains Court (Bedford) on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.

As a hospital volunteer, you might: 

• hold drop-in sessions

• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities 

• share information

• assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre 

Support Session Volunteer

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

As a support session volunteer, you might: 

• help people have their say when it matters most 

• Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met 

• help people to make complaints and use local services 

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

Safeguarding Commitment Statement 

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

ED&I Statement 

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

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

To find out more click “Apply Now”.

Ganddee

We connect shoppers to local second-hand shops and thrifting events across the UK.

​Social Media Marketer

Ganddee is the UK and Ireland's largest discovery platform helping shoppers find local second-hand shops / charity shops, car boot sales, flea markets and thrifting events - think 'google maps for thrifting' or 'vinted for people who love to thrift IRL'.

We're building and growing the the UK and Ireland's biggest thrifting community. To that end, we're looking for volunteers who share our love for thrifting and circularity.

Even if everyone works from home/remote in our team, living in the UK or Ireland is a requirement for this opportunity.

The time commitment and "duration of the role" aren't set in stone! Happy to chat and see what works for you if you're excited by this opportunity!

The role entails:

• Creating content on Tiktok

You're perfect for the role if you love creating content on social media. We're not looking for someone with a big following base or "professional influencer skills". But you should be comfortable in front of a camera (we love carousels, so posting pictures is fine too!) :)

We'll teach you best practices for engaging UGC if you're keen to learn social media communications! We have lots of experience on tiktok and insta, so it's a great opportunity to learn more about these platforms! :)

Keen to chat if you love what we do and want to be part of the journey

Minimum Hours per Week:

2-3 hours per week

Duration:

3-4 weeks