Volunteer roles in Croydon

Do you have a keen eye for details and a passion for supporting a great cause?

We’re looking for Volunteer Mystery Shoppers to help us ensure our shops are the best they can be. Your feedback helps us provide Tender Loving Care to our community and ensures every customer visit helps fund our vital work supporting families affected by Leukodystrophy.

What you’ll do 

• Visit as a regular customer at one of our local shops
• Browse the rails and interact with our friendly team.
• Fill out a quick survey about your experience (cleanliness, service and vibe).
• Make a donation of pre loved items

Who we’re looking for:

Someone observant, honest, and reliable who loves a hidden gem.

Job Description – HR Manager

Organisation: Children With Voices

Reports to: the executive ops manager

Location: Hackney, London - Hybrid

Contract: Full-time / Part-time – specify as needed

Job Purpose

The HR Manager plays a vital role in supporting the vision and mission of Children With Voices by ensuring that all HR practices are fair, compliant, and aligned with safeguarding, equity, and community wellbeing. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources, from recruitment and staff development to compliance and wellbeing initiatives. The HR Manager will be instrumental in creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where staff, volunteers, and young people can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

1. Oversee Daily HR Operations
   • Manage HR functions to ensure efficiency, compliance, and alignment with organisational goals.
   • Champion safeguarding and equality in every aspect of HR practice.
2. Recruitment & Onboarding
   • Lead fair and inclusive recruitment, ensuring diversity, equal opportunity, and alignment with our safeguarding responsibilities.
   • Deliver onboarding that instils Children With Voices’ values, safeguarding culture, and commitment to community impact.
3. HR Policies & Compliance
   • Develop and implement HR policies and procedures in line with UK employment law, charity governance, and safeguarding legislation.
   • Ensure GDPR compliance and maintain secure, confidential records.
4. Training & Development
   • Coordinate training on safeguarding, equality, diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing.
   • Support ongoing professional and personal development for staff and volunteers.
5. Employee Relations & Wellbeing
   • Provide advice and support on employee concerns, encouraging a culture of respect, accountability, and collaboration.
   • Promote mental health and wellbeing initiatives, aligned with our duty of care.
6. Volunteer Engagement
   • Oversee volunteer recruitment, DBS checks, safeguarding induction, and ongoing engagement.
   • Support volunteers to feel valued and integrated into the charity’s mission.
7. Collaboration with Leadership
   • Work closely with the CEO and department leads to ensure HR strategies support the organisation’s mission and goals.
   • Streamline HR processes to improve efficiency and impact.
8. Conflict Resolution
   • Mediate disputes fairly, maintaining trust and confidentiality.
   • Support managers in handling sensitive matters in line with policy and safeguarding standards.
9. Records & Benefits Management
   • Maintain accurate HR records, ensuring data protection compliance.
   • Administer employee benefits and ensure fair, transparent processes.
10. Health, Safety & Safeguarding

• Ensure workplace compliance with health and safety legislation.
• Embed safeguarding responsibilities across all HR practices, ensuring no child or vulnerable adult falls through the gaps.

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in an HR management role, ideally within the charity or community sector.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law, HR compliance, and safeguarding requirements.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust at all levels.
• Experience managing recruitment, onboarding, and training processes.
• Ability to mediate and resolve conflicts in a fair, professional, and sensitive manner.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail and confidentiality.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• CIPD qualification (Level 5 or above) or equivalent HR certification.
• Experience working with volunteers, young people, or community-focused organisations.
• Knowledge of charity governance and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in developing wellbeing or mental health initiatives.

Our Values at Children With Voices

• Safeguarding First: Every decision is made with the protection and safety of children and vulnerable people in mind.
• Equity & Inclusion: We champion fairness and diversity, ensuring no child or family is left behind.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of working together with partners, communities, and families.
• Empowerment: We support children, families, staff, and volunteers to thrive and reach their full potential.
• Community Impact: We exist to rebuild stronger, safer communities for future generations.

Salary & Benefits - £1,520 per month

Days 1–2 days in the office, with flexibility to choose from Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. The remaining hours can be worked remotely.

Working pattern: 20 hours per week

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Without our volunteer drivers, the Community Food Hub simply does not run.

Food donations, supplies, and resources need to move — and you are the person who makes that happen. As our Volunteer Driver, you'll be a critical part of the operation, collecting from our partners and suppliers and delivering to the Hub so that families across Hackney can be fed.

This is a practical, independent role that puts you at the heart of our supply chain — and the impact you make is felt every single session.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Collect food donations, supplies, and resources from partner organisations and suppliers

• Deliver collections to the Community Food Hub at Fawcett Estate, Clapton

• Communicate clearly with Thomas and the Hub team about collection schedules and any changes

• Handle all food safely and responsibly during transit, following food hygiene guidelines

• Keep a simple record of collections — what was picked up, from where, and when

• Report any concerns or issues during collections immediately to Thomas

• Maintain the vehicle used for collections in a clean and roadworthy condition

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Full, clean UK driving licence

• Confident, safe, and experienced driver

• Reliable and punctual — our food supply depends on you

• Able to lift and carry food boxes and bags safely

• Good communication — able to liaise clearly with the Hub team and partner organisations

• Basic awareness of food hygiene for transit

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience driving a van or larger vehicle

• Previous experience as a delivery driver, volunteer driver, or similar

• Knowledge of Hackney and surrounding areas

• Understanding of food bank or community food logistics

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• A professional reference from our Head of Food & Partnerships and CEO

• Experience in community logistics and food distribution

• The knowledge that without you, families would go without — that matters enormously

• A trusted, valued place within the Children With Voices team

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Ready to step up? This is for people who want more responsibility at the Community Food Hub.

As a Food Co-op Lead Volunteer, you'll be a go-to person on the floor — helping coordinate sessions, supporting other volunteers, and keeping the co-op running smoothly and with pride.

You'll work closely with the Food Hub Manager (Petagaye) and Thomas (Head of Food & Partnerships) — taking ownership of your sessions and helping to build a strong, reliable volunteer team around you.

This role is a real stepping stone — building the skills and track record that open doors to more senior roles in community food work, charity operations, or beyond.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Take the lead during sessions — directing volunteers, managing the floor, keeping things moving

• Support the Food Hub Manager in coordinating session activity and volunteer tasks

• Help with stock management — tracking what is available, what is needed, and communicating this clearly

• Keep simple session records — numbers served, feedback, any issues to flag

• Be the first point of contact for volunteers during sessions

• Ensure all food hygiene, safeguarding, and health and safety standards are maintained

• Support the induction and settling-in of newer volunteers

• Communicate updates and any concerns clearly to the Food Hub Manager after each session

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Some experience of volunteering or working in a team setting

• A natural ability to take initiative and keep things organised

• Confident communicator — able to give clear, calm direction to others

• Reliable, consistent, and able to commit to regular sessions

• Understanding of safeguarding and food hygiene principles

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Previous experience at a food bank, food co-op, or community kitchen

• A food hygiene certificate (Level 1 or 2)

• Experience coordinating or supervising a small team of volunteers

• Knowledge of the Hackney community or similar urban settings

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Hands-on leadership and team coordination experience

• A strong reference from our Food Hub Manager and Head of Food & Partnerships

• A clear pathway towards more senior roles within Children With Voices

• Stock management, session coordination, and operational skills

• The genuine satisfaction of leading a team that feeds and supports Hackney families

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

The Community Food Hub at Children With Voices runs because of people like you.

This is our entry-level food co-op role — no experience needed, no qualifications required, just a willingness to roll up your sleeves and be part of something that genuinely feeds and supports Hackney families.

You'll be working alongside a warm, welcoming team in our co-op space, helping to make sure that every family who comes through our doors leaves with what they need and feels respected and valued.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Sort and organise food donations as they come in

• Pack food parcels for families with care and accuracy

• Help set up and pack down the co-op space before and after sessions

• Welcome community members as they arrive and make them feel at home

• Assist with basic stock checks and flagging when items are running low

• Keep the co-op floor clean, tidy, and well-organised throughout the session

• Follow all food hygiene and health and safety guidelines at all times

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Friendly, warm, and non-judgemental towards all families

• Willing to get stuck in with practical, hands-on tasks

• Reliable — families and the team count on volunteers showing up

• Basic awareness of food hygiene (or willingness to complete a short online course)

• Respectful and kind in all interactions with families and team members

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Any previous experience volunteering at a food bank, community kitchen, or similar setting

• A food hygiene certificate (Level 1 or 2) — though not required

• Additional languages spoken (Hackney is a wonderfully diverse community!)

• Experience working or volunteering with families or in a community setting

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• The reward of making a direct, immediate difference to families in Hackney every week

• Support to obtain a food hygiene certificate

• A professional reference from our team

• A genuine insight into grassroots community food provision

• A welcoming team and a space where your contribution truly matters

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Our Community Food Hub is at the heart of what we do — a warm, welcoming space where families across Hackney access fresh food, support, and community.

As a Volunteer Food Hub Assistant, you'll be a vital part of the team on the ground — helping families access what they need with dignity, warmth, and a smile.

No experience needed. Just heart.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Welcome and assist families arriving at the Food Hub

• Support food sorting, packing, and distribution under the guidance of the Food Hub Manager

• Help maintain a clean, organised, and welcoming Hub environment

• Assist with stock management and recording under supervision

• Treat all families with dignity, respect, and discretion

• Follow all food hygiene and health and safety guidelines

• Report any concerns to the Food Hub Manager immediately

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Friendly, welcoming, and non-judgemental

• Willing to get stuck in with practical tasks

• Reliable — families and the team count on you

• Understanding of basic food hygiene (or willing to complete a short online course)

• Committed to safeguarding and treating all families with dignity

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Previous experience volunteering at a food bank, community kitchen, or similar setting

• Food hygiene certificate (Level 1 or 2)

• Languages spoken in addition to English (Hackney is wonderfully diverse!)

• Experience working with vulnerable families or in a community setting

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• The reward of making a real, immediate difference to families every week

• Food hygiene training and certification support

• A professional reference from our team

• Experience in community food distribution and frontline family support

Mind in Enfield and Barnet is seeking a dedicated Volunteer Administrative Assistant to support our Advocacy Service. This role plays a vital part in ensuring people with mental health needs receive timely, confidential, and effective advocacy support. By assisting with referrals, communication, and day‑to‑day administrative tasks, you will help our advocates focus on supporting individuals while gaining valuable experience in a mental health service.

Purpose of the Role
To support the Advocacy Service with essential administrative tasks, ensuring referrals are 
processed efficiently and communication channels are effectively managed.

Key Responsibilities
• Process and log referrals received via the service inbox
• Monitor incoming calls and manage voicemail messages
• Maintain accurate records using Microsoft Excel and Word
• Support advocates with general administrative duties
• Ensure confidentiality when handling sensitive information
• Communicate effectively with team members and external contacts

Skills and Experience
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word
• Good telephone manner and communication skills
• Well organised with strong attention to detail
• Able to work effectively as part of a team
• Ability to manage workload and prioritise tasks

Personal Qualities
• Reliable and punctual
• Friendly and approachable
• Positive and supportive attitude
• Willingness to learn

Benefits
• Gain experience within a mental health advocacy service
• Develop administrative and professional skills
• Work within a supportive team environment
• Make a meaningful contribution to supporting vulnerable individuals

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Children With Voices runs transformative programmes for children and young people across Hackney — from alternative education and SEN support to holiday hunger programmes and youth activities.

As a Volunteer Junior Youth Worker, you'll be hands-on in those sessions — supporting our team to deliver safe, fun, and empowering experiences for children and young people.

If you care about children and want to build a career in youth work, education, or social care, this is the place to start.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Support programme leads in delivering youth sessions, activities, and workshops

• Build positive, trusted relationships with children and young people

• Assist with session preparation, set-up, and clear-down

• Support children with additional needs under the guidance of experienced staff

• Help ensure all activities are safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for every child

• Contribute to a welcoming and positive session atmosphere

• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the named lead

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Genuine passion for working with children and young people

• Warm, patient, and able to connect with young people from all backgrounds

• Willing to learn and take direction from experienced staff

• Commitment to safeguarding and child protection principles

• Reliable, enthusiastic, and a team player

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience working or volunteering with children or young people

• Studying or interested in youth work, education, social care, or a related field

• Knowledge of SEN support or trauma-informed practice

• First aid qualification (or willingness to obtain one)

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Supervised, real-world experience in youth work and programme delivery

• A professional reference from our CEO and programme leads

• Exposure to alternative education, SEN support, and community provision

• A strong foundation for a career in youth work, education, or social care

• The chance to make a genuine, lasting difference to children's lives in Hackney

As a Climate Ambassador, you would be joining thousands of volunteers supporting the Department for Education’s Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy, launched in 2022.

Climate Ambassadors offer free support to nurseries, schools and colleges across England to develop and implement a climate action plan. This framework helps education settings evaluate and address key action areas – adaptation and mitigation, biodiversity, climate education and green careers, and decarbonisation.

If you have: 

• A desire to create coordinated impact in your local community, while utilising your employer’s volunteering leave (where applicable); 

• Knowledge about the sustainability and climate challenges facing the world; 

• Familiarity with education settings, or the ability to inspire senior leaders, educators and young people to set out on their sustainability journey; 

• A growth and mentorship mindset to help education communities begin or progress with their climate action plan, 

… then join the growing community of Climate Ambassadors and embed climate action where it matters most! 

You will receive training, guidance and regular communications from our regional teams to make the most of the climate action opportunities on your doorstep. You can get started by volunteering just 2 hours a year. 

How can you become a Climate Ambassador? 

1. Complete an initial interest form and your regional team will be in touch to support your registration on the STEM Learning platform; 
2. Receive induction, your DBS check and your Climate Ambassador training; 
3. Identify activities you would like to support and post about them on the STEM Learning platform, or browse activities requested by your local schools! 

Your regional team will get in touch suggesting a good match to a local setting seeking support relating to your area of interest or experience. You can also upskill through the Sustainability Leadership Programme to unlock new areas of expertise. 

Please note: STEM Learning UK host Climate Ambassador profiles on their website, which requires you to register as a STEM Ambassador. Your profile will be processed as a Climate Ambassador upon selecting ‘Climate’ as your area of interest during registration.

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Behind every meal served, every child supported, and every family helped — there is a story. Your job is to help us capture it.

As our Volunteer Impact & Data Administrator, you'll support us in recording, organising, and presenting the data that tells the world what Children With Voices achieves.

This is a behind-the-scenes role that makes a very visible difference — helping us secure funding, report to partners, and demonstrate our impact to the community we serve.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Accurately record attendance, programme data, and beneficiary information

• Support the team in maintaining up-to-date spreadsheets and databases

• Help prepare impact reports, case studies, and statistics for funding applications

• Assist with data entry from Food Hub and programme activity records

• Flag any gaps or inconsistencies in records to the Admin & Programme Lead

• Support the team in adopting and maintaining simple, effective data systems

• Handle all information with strict confidentiality in line with GDPR

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Organised, accurate, and confident with data and admin

• Comfortable using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets

• Strong attention to detail

• Able to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately

• Reliable and self-motivated

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience with charity databases or CRM systems

• Background in data, administration, or project management

• Understanding of reporting requirements for charitable organisations

• Knowledge of GDPR principles

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Hands-on experience in charity data and impact measurement

• A professional reference from our leadership team

• Understanding of how grassroots organisations demonstrate value and secure funding

• Development of data skills in a meaningful, real-world context

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

At Children With Voices, community is everything. We've been walking alongside Hackney families for over 25 years — and we're looking for someone who shares that deep commitment to people.

As our Volunteer Community Engagement Officer, you'll be a connector. You'll help us reach more families, build relationships with local organisations, and make sure that the people who need us most know we're here.

This is a face-to-face, relationship-centred role for someone who genuinely loves people and community.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Build and maintain relationships with families, local groups, schools, and community spaces

• Represent Children With Voices at community events, outreach sessions, and local meetings

• Identify and connect with families who may benefit from our programmes

• Support the signposting of families to the right services and support

• Assist with the coordination and promotion of community events

• Provide regular updates to the CEO on community needs and feedback

• Help grow our volunteer and supporter network through outreach and word of mouth

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• A warm, approachable manner and genuine love for community

• Strong verbal communication and active listening skills

• Ability to connect with people from all backgrounds with sensitivity and respect

• Self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team

• Understanding of safeguarding principles

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience in community development, outreach, or social work

• Knowledge of Hackney or East London communities

• Ability to communicate in a second language (particularly relevant to Hackney's diverse community)

• Experience working with families, children, or vulnerable adults

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Deep experience in grassroots community engagement

• A professional reference from our CEO

• The opportunity to build meaningful relationships that change lives

• Exposure to a wide range of community services and organisations in Hackney

• A chance to grow your skills in outreach, inclusion, and social action

Love social media, photography or content creation? This is your chance to build real experience while helping a meaningful community project grow.

Join AkiOke and gain hands-on experience capturing and sharing the energy of a music club for young adults with learning difficulties.

We are looking for friendly volunteers to help grow AkiOke — a welcoming music club.

Social Media Volunteer

• Attending sessions help us with our social presence
• Help us share our story on Instagram & Facebook
• Support us in capturing the energy of the group

 Real-world experience in social media and content creation
 Hands-on photography and video skills
 Experience working on a live community project
 Strong content for your CV or portfolio
 Opportunity to take ownership and shape our online presence
 A chance to build confidence and creative skills
 Flexible, low-pressure environment

WHO THIS ROLE SUITS:

• students or early-career creatives
• Anyone interested in social media, photography or marketing
• Friendly, reliable people who enjoy working with others
• No formal experience needed — just enthusiasm and willingness to learn

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Children With Voices has been serving Hackney for over 25 years — and we need someone passionate about storytelling to help us share that story with the world.

As our Volunteer Social Media & Marketing Manager, you'll take the lead on our digital presence across Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook — creating content that celebrates our community, raises our profile, and helps us reach the families, partners, and supporters who need to know we exist.

This is a creative, community-driven role at the heart of a nationally recognised grassroots charity.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Develop and manage a content calendar across Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook

• Create engaging posts, reels, and stories that reflect the heart of our work

• Grow our online community and engagement with families, supporters, and partners

• Monitor analytics and share simple monthly insights with the team

• Support the CEO in amplifying key campaigns, appeals, and announcements

• Ensure all content aligns with Children With Voices brand, values, and safeguarding guidelines

• Collaborate with programme staff to capture stories, photos, and milestones

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Active user of at least two of: Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook

• Creative flair and a genuine love of community storytelling

• Good written communication and an eye for design

• Understanding of safeguarding principles when working with children and families

• Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work independently

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience using Canva, Adobe tools, or similar

• Background in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field

• Knowledge of the Hackney community or similar urban settings

• Experience working with charities or community organisations

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Real-world experience managing social media for a nationally recognised charity

• A portfolio of live, impactful community content

• A reference from our CEO for your professional portfolio

• The chance to be part of something that genuinely changes lives in Hackney

• Ongoing support and guidance from our leadership team

ABOUT CHILDREN WITH VOICES

Children With Voices is a grassroots children's charity with over 25 years of experience supporting children and families across London. Based at Fawcett Estate Community Hall in Clapton, Hackney, we run a Community Food Hub, alternative education, SEN support, and community programmes including Jumping Beans. We have supported over 100,000 families and are recognised nationally for our work.

ABOUT THIS ROLE

Our children and families programmes are at the heart of everything we do — and this role is at the heart of keeping them running. We are looking for someone who can bring structure, hold the team together, and make things happen without constant chasing.

This is not a passive support role. We need someone who takes ownership, follows through, and keeps programmes moving forward consistently.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Programme Coordination

• Oversee the day-to-day coordination of children and families sessions

• Ensure programmes are planned, organised, and running effectively

• Support scheduling of workshops, facilitators, and activities

Team Alignment & Communication

• Act as the central coordination point between facilitators, volunteers, and leadership

• Ensure everyone is clear on roles, timings, and expectations

• Follow up on actions and make sure tasks are completed

Tracking & Accountability

• Track attendance, engagement, and programme progress

• Maintain simple, useful reporting structures — updates, feedback, outcomes

• Spot issues early and come with solutions, not just problems

Operational Support

• Work closely with leadership to maintain structure across delivery

• Support onboarding and coordination of volunteers within programmes

• Ensure consistency in how sessions are delivered, every time

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• Highly organised and reliable

• Strong communication and coordination skills

• Able to take initiative and follow through

• Comfortable managing people and holding accountability

• Passionate about working with children, families, and community

• Committed to safeguarding and child protection

This is a voluntary role with real responsibility. We are not looking for passive support — we need someone who can take ownership, bring structure, and help move programmes forward consistently. If that is you, we would love to hear from you.