Volunteer roles in Durham

About Us

The New Normal are a growing charity whose mission is to change the way we discuss our grief, mental health and wellbeing in open and honest spaces. We believe that nobody should ever feel isolated, and there is always someone who will relate to your story. “If there’s one, there’s two.”

We run free virtual and in-person peer support meetings for adults facing life’s difficult moments, particularly bereavement. 

The Opportunity

Are you passionate about using social media for good? This is your chance to use your skills to support people through one of life's most difficult experiences.

You'll help us spread our message that nobody should face grief alone, connect people to our free virtual and in-person peer support meetings, and grow an online community built on openness and compassion. You'll receive regular check-ins and guidance from a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator, free safeguarding training, and a reference letter upon completion, all while building real, meaningful experience in the rewarding charity sector.

This role is ideal for students, recent graduates, or career changers looking to build experience in charity communications or digital media.

What You'll Do

• Create social media posts in line with our brand tone: inclusive, warm, and sensitive to the subject of bereavement
• Schedule and post updates about weekly peer support meetings and events
• Help plan simple campaigns or awareness posts around key dates (Mental Health Awareness Week, Grief Awareness Week, World Suicide Prevention Day, etc.)
• Contribute creative ideas to help our mission reach more people online
• Communicate regularly with your coordinator and flag any challenges early

What We're Looking For

• Someone who can commit to the full 6-month term (potential to extend)
• Reliable, communicative, and respectful of sensitive subject matter
• An interest in mental health, bereavement support, or nonprofit communications
• Confidence using social media (Instagram)
• Comfortable working independently with light supervision and taking initiative

What You'll Gain

• Valuable experience in charity communications and social media management
• Free safeguarding, peer support and Suicide First Aid (lite) training worth £500 (a great addition to your CV)
• A reference letter or LinkedIn recommendation upon successful completion
• Regular mentorship, support, and a welcoming volunteer community
• The chance to make a genuine difference for people navigating challenging circumstances

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive volunteer community and actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from global majority and gender marginalised groups.

Neuroverse Community CIC supports disabled and neurodivergent young people aged 12–16 who are unable to access school. We deliver LAMDA drama, Science and neuro-affirming education in Nailsworth and Stroud, Gloucestershire — as a registered LAMDA Private Examination Centre.

Our disabled and neurodivergent Founder is an ex-Charity Director, multi-award-winning education professional, former SENDCO and LAMDA Grade 8 holder. She has personally founded, run and delivered Neuroverse for 2 years, entirely voluntarily.

Shortlisted: Scope Awards 2026 Purple Pioneer Award.

Our Founder has dyscalculia and needs a strategic finance partner to:

• Oversee financial health and 3-year forecasts

• Advise on Blended Finance: Grants and Social Investment

• Support grant applications and funding strategy

• Termly meetings — low time commitment, real impact

Chartered Accountant or Finance Professional.

Neurodivergent and disabled professionals especially welcome.

Allies who genuinely believe in Nothing About Us, Without Us are warmly invited.

Reasonable adjustments always available.

Right to Work in UK essential. 

Job description:

"We are looking for 10 volunteers to join our volunteer human resource programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field. While we only have 10 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

About the Volunteer Programme:

The HR Programme Coordinator plays a pivotal role in driving the success of our flagship professional development initiative. This volunteering role is responsible for managing the end-to-end execution of the HR programme, ensuring seamless coordination between participants, Heads of Department (HoDs), and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will combine exceptional organizational skills with a passion for fostering professional growth, ensuring participants remain engaged and supported throughout their development journey.

Key Responsibilities of the sucessful volunteer:

Programme Management

• Oversee the effective implementation of the HR programme, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
• Welcome participants to the programme, providing orientation materials and clarifying expectations.

Participant Support & Progress Tracking

• Conduct initial skills assessments to identify individual development needs.
• Monitor and document participant progress, providing regular updates to stakeholders.
• Schedule and coordinate meetings between participants and their respective Heads of Department (HoDs).

Coordination & Communication

• Manage day-to-day operations, including scheduling sessions, sending reminders, and maintaining programme documentation.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for participants, addressing queries and resolving issues promptly.

Engagement & Feedback

• Design and organise feedback sessions to gather insights from participants and HoDs, using data to refine the programme.
• Develop strategies to ensure active engagement (e.g., interactive workshops, milestone celebrations).

Reporting

• Prepare progress reports for senior leadership, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

Required Skills of a successful volunteer:

• Keen Eye for Detail: Ability to manage complex schedules, track progress meticulously, and maintain accurate records.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication to liaise effectively with participants, HoDs, and stakeholders.
• Relationship Building & Networking: Proven ability to foster trust and collaboration across departments.
• Organizational Agility: Skilled in multitasking, prioritization, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to addressing challenges and improving programme delivery.

Preferred but not essential:

• Experience in coordinating professional development programmes or similar initiatives.
• Familiarity with data analysis to assess programme effectiveness.

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

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

Director of Grants and Foundations (Volunteer, Unpaid)

Remote (United States; Canada; United Kingdom)

Part-time

View all jobs

The Role: Director of Grants and Foundations (Volunteer)

• Location: Remote

• Commitment: Part-time (volunteer, pro bono role)

• Contribution Requirements: Minimum 10-15 hours a week; minimum 3 months

Professional Volunteering

Professional volunteering is skills‑based service performed with the same reliability, accountability, and quality expected in a paid professional role. Volunteers are core contributors whose work directly supports our mission of global compassion, collaboration, and action.

Expectations include:

• Consistent weekly availability

• Timely communication and responsiveness

• Ownership of assigned tasks and follow‑through

• Participation in team meetings and workflows

• Alignment with organizational values and processes

About Solution Community:

Solution Community is an international non-profit organization, pioneering an innovative social platform dedicated to enabling actionable change. With volunteers from over 70 countries, we are a testament to the power of global collaboration. Our team members bring experiences from some of the world’s most successful companies, including Apple, Toyota, Google, Netflix, Walmart, Meta, and many others, creating a rich tapestry of knowledge and passion.

Our Mission:

To foster a global community of compassion, uniting individuals and organizations to solve the world’s social problems. We are the bridge that connects non-profits, businesses, philanthropists, and volunteers, empowering them to create meaningful change for current and future generations.

Our Vision:

Imagine a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive - a world united by collaboration, compassion, and action. At Solution Community, we are bringing that vision to life, driving transformative change that reshapes the future.

What Will You Do?

As Lead Grants and Foundations, you will:

• Fundraising strategy: Design and implement a comprehensive strategy for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding foundation, corporate, and government grant prospects.

• Grant writing and management: Oversee the entire grants lifecycle, from researching funding opportunities and writing compelling proposals to managing awards, ensuring compliance, and submitting reports.

• Team leadership: Lead and mentor a team of grants professionals, such as grants managers and coordinators, to meet or exceed annual funding goals.

• Relationship management: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with foundation program officers and other institutional funders. Serve as the primary point of contact for major funders.

• Cross-departmental collaboration: Work closely with finance, programs, and leadership to develop grant budgets, gather data for proposals, and ensure funded projects are implemented successfully.

• Compliance and reporting: Ensure the organization adheres to all grant requirements, including financial and programmatic reporting, and prepares for audits.

• Financial oversight: Manage the grant budget and expenditure tracking, and provide financial reports to both funders and internal leadership

Who Are We Looking For?

We are seeking a passionate individual with:

• Experience: A proven track record in grant writing, fundraising, or foundation relations, ideally within non-profit or social impact sectors; at least 3-5 years of experience.

• Skills: Exceptional writing, storytelling, and project management abilities. Attention to detail is a must!

• Passion: A deep commitment to Solution Community’s mission of fostering global collaboration and compassion.

• Collaboration: The ability to work effectively within a diverse, multicultural team.

• Autonomy: Proactive and self-motivated, capable of managing tasks independently in a remote setting.

What We Offer

• Global collaboration with leaders and strategists from top global companies

• Meaningful impact on global causes and communities

• A vibrant, multicultural team spanning 70+ countries

• A supportive environment rooted in compassion, integrity, innovation, and collaboration

• Flexible work life with full autonomy

• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

• A formal recommendation upon successful completion of your volunteer term.

Are you a committed Christian with professional investment experience who has a heart to see a new generation develop a vibrant faith in Jesus Christ? 

We are seeking a volunteer with professional investment experience to join our Audit & Finance Committee, supporting the Board in its responsibility for financial oversight, governance and assurance. 

This role would suit someone who has worked as an investment consultant, investment manager, or in a similar advisory capacity, and who can bring independent expertise to strengthen the Committee’s oversight of our investment arrangements. 

Scripture Union holds investments of approximately £1.9 million (including a capital endowment of around £0.65 million) and a further c.£0.8 million held in cash or cash-equivalent deposits to support liquidity needs. These invested assets are managed externally by Rathbones through charity-specific pooled investment funds. Investment decisions are made in line with our ethical investment policy, which ensures that funds avoid sectors inconsistent with our Christian values. 

About the role 

As part of a broader remit covering financial reporting, internal controls, audit, risk management and compliance, the Committee also plays a key role in: 

• reviewing and approving our investment policies; and 

• monitoring the performance of the investment management, making recommendations to the Board where appropriate.

In this context, you will help the Committee: 

• monitor the performance of our funds managed by Rathbones; 

• provide constructive challenge on investment performance and reporting; 

• support the Committee in reviewing whether the current investment strategy and asset mix remains appropriate; and 

• contribute to providing assurance that there is a robust level of due diligence, oversight and governance in place. 

This is not a fund management role. Instead, it is a governance role focused on independent scrutiny, challenge and assurance, as part of the Committee’s wider responsibilities for financial performance, control and risk management. 

What you will bring 

We are particularly interested in candidates with: 

• experience as an investment consultant, investment manager, or similar; 

• strong understanding of investment performance, asset allocation and risk; 

• experience of reviewing investment manager reports and providing insight at a strategic level; 

• the confidence to provide constructive challenge within a committee setting; 

• the ability to support non-specialists in understanding complex investment matters; and 

• a strong interest in supporting good governance and stewardship of charitable resources. 

Previous experience of charity governance or committee membership would be helpful but is not essential. 

Commitment 

This is a voluntary role. The Committee usually meets four times a year with additional preparation time required to review papers in advance. 

You will play an important role in supporting the Committee to fulfil its responsibilities for financial oversight, risk management and investment governance, helping to ensure the charity’s resources are managed effectively and responsibly. 

About The Stray Cat Charity (TSCC)

The Stray Cat Charity is a newly established UK-registered CIO working to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome stray cats in Greece, starting in Patras. Our current priority campaign is to raise £35,000 to build a dedicated stray cat shelter in Patras, Greece, which will provide safe housing, veterinary care, and a pathway to adoption for vulnerable cats. As a growing new charity, we are building our fundraising and outreach network across the UK.

Role Purpose

We are looking for a motivated volunteer to support the growth of our charity by helping identify and connect with potential supporters in their local area. This includes community groups, schools, corporates, and potential major donors who may be interested in supporting or fundraising for stray cats in Greece. The aim of this role is to help generate awareness, build relationships, and support fundraising activity for our current and future campaigns.

Key Responsibilities

The volunteer may support with:

• Researching local community groups, schools, faith groups, and businesses
• Identifying potential corporate partners and supporters in their region
• Contacting organisations to introduce The Stray Cat Charity and its mission
• Encouraging groups to support the charity through donations or fundraising
• Promoting our current campaign to raise £35,000 for a stray cat shelter in Patras, Greece
• Supporting or initiating community fundraising activities where appropriate (e.g. sponsored events, school fundraisers, awareness campaigns)
• Helping to raise awareness of stray cat welfare issues in Greece through local outreach

Fundraising Options

Volunteers may either:

• Focus on outreach and relationship-building, or
• Actively support or lead local fundraising efforts for the charity’s campaigns

Ideal Volunteer

We are looking for someone who is:

• Confident communicating with people and organisations
• Passionate about animal welfare
• Self-motivated and able to work independently
• Comfortable researching and reaching out to potential supporters
• Interested in community engagement or fundraising

About the Charity

The Stray Cat Charity is a new organisation, meaning volunteers will play a key role in shaping our growth, impact, and fundraising success from the ground up.

Support Provided

We will provide:

• Guidance on messaging and outreach
• Information about the charity and campaigns
• Ongoing support and communication from the founder/trustee

Impact of This Role

Your work will directly contribute to raising vital funds to build a safe shelter in Patras, Greece, improving the lives of stray cats and creating long-term sustainable welfare solutions.

Every year, hundreds of runners take part in challenge events across the UK to help end homelessness. We are looking for enthusiastic Cheer Point Volunteers to join our cheer squads on the sidelines of iconic events like the London Marathon, Great North Run and Royal Parks Half Marathon. Get ready to clap, shout and motivate our runners all the way to the finish line! 

You will contribute to ending homelessness by supporting all our amazing fundraisers and raising awareness of Crisis. 

Your tasks may include: 

• Cheering, motivating, and encouraging participants as they pass the Crisis cheer point 
• Creating a lively and positive atmosphere 
• Representing the charity in a friendly, positive, and respectful manner 
• Following guidance from event coordinators to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone 
• You will be provided a branded Crisis t-shirt to wear and cheer items to help make as much noise as possible for Team Crisis 
• Please note that this role will likely involve standing for extended periods, and seating is not available. 

Are you a HR professional? Could you give an hour a week to tackle pregnancy and maternity discrimination? Then we need you!

We’re not going to sugar-coat it, things aren’t great for working parents and pregnant women. It can feel frustrating and a bit depressing at times, but by being part of the Pregnant Then Screwed volunteer team, you get to turn that frustration into something positive. In the last year the fantastic volunteers on our Advice Line have spoken to over 5000 women and parents, collectively providing around 40 hours of free support and advice every week. Hundreds of women and parents call our Advice Line every day, but with a small team of volunteers we are only able to answer a fraction of those calls—this is where you come in.

We are looking for brilliant HR professionals who want to help Pregnant Then Screwed tackle the Motherhood Penalty by becoming a Volunteer HR Advisor.

Our Volunteer Advisors give around 1-2 hours a week of their time to the Advice Line. They use their HR knowledge to offer a kind, empathetic support and advice to help people to identify and challenge pregnancy and maternity discrimination in the workplace.

About the role

Role Title: Volunteer HR Advisor 
Location: Home-based (UK)
Reporting To: Head of Support Services

Time Commitment

The Advice Line is open Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm, with various available shifts during those times. We ask volunteers to give 1-2 hours per week on the Advice Line for a minimum of three months. 

Alternative time commitments can be considered and discussed as part of your application, so please do include any information that might be useful in your application form.

Main Role Purpose

The Advice Line HR Advisors play a vital role in providing support and guidance to working parents facing unfair treatment or discrimination in the workplace via our advice line. Volunteers will offer advice, listen empathetically, and provide information about employee rights and available resources. This role is critical in empowering parents to make informed decisions and navigate workplace challenges effectively.

Essential requirements

• Minimum CIPD level 5 Diploma in People Management with one professional reference.
• Knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and policies related to pregnancy, maternity leave, and discrimination.
• Access to a mobile phone/laptop/tablet to receive calls. You will not be charged for calls and your number will not be shared.
• Access to a reliable and secure WIFI connection. Public WIFI is not suitable for this role.
• Excellent active and empathetic listening skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey information clearly and concisely.
• A kind and welcoming telephone manner.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Comfortable using online communication tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer incoming phone calls to the PTS Advice Line from individuals seeking support and advice.
• Listen actively, empathise, and provide HR advice and guidance to support callers with their enquiries.
• Signpost to further information and other support organisations if necessary.
• Make referrals to our legal partner if required.
• Record all details of the call on our CRM system.
• Maintain professionalism in all interactions, adhering to all Pregnant Then Screwed guidelines and policies.

What you can expect from PTS

• The opportunity to use your skill set to tackle the Motherhood Penalty and make a meaningful impact.
• An onboarding and induction period which can be completed at your own pace.
• Support from the PTS staff team and volunteer network.
• Access to our Volunteer Training Hub.
• Opportunities to help us further develop and shape our Support Services.

Could your leadership skills help shape the future of a charity that supports the UK’s nursing and midwifery workforce?

Charity People is excited to be partnering with Cavell, the UK’s largest funder of nurses and midwives in hardship and crisis, as they recruit a new Trustee with experience in the commercial sector experience to join their Board at an exciting point in the charity’s growth journey.

Location: UK-wide, head office Birmingham with key meetings in London
Time Commitment: Approx. 4 Board meetings + 1 strategy day per year
Term: Initially four years, with option for renewal
Renumeration: Voluntary, with reasonable expenses covered

With an ambitious new vision and mission, underpinned by a three-year strategy, Cavell is entering a significant new phase of development, strengthening its role in supporting the wellbeing of nurses and midwives and contributing to the resilience and retention of the UK healthcare workforce.

As living costs rise and workforce pressures grow, more people are turning to Cavell for help. Through person-centred emotional support, financial guidance, grants and wellbeing conversations, Cavell provides vital support when it is needed most. By helping nurses and midwives stay in the profession they care deeply about, Cavell also strengthens the workforce that underpins patient care across the UK, and ultimately improving care for everyone.

About the role

Trustees play an active role in shaping strategy, addressing key opportunities and risks, and offering support and constructive challenge to the Executive Team. You will join a supportive, engaged and professionally diverse Board to provide strong governance and strategic leadership, working closely with a talented internal team.

We want to be crystal clear that previous Trustee experience is not required – Cavell welcomes both first-time Trustees and experienced Board members. They are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the UK nursing and midwifery workforce. Applications are warmly welcomed from people of all backgrounds, particularly those currently under-represented on charity boards.

Who are we looking for?

The Board already benefits from the significant expertise of medical professionals and qualified nurses. For these vacancies, we would particularly welcome applications that strengthen the Board’s commercial capability, especially from individuals with experience in banking and finance, legal practice – particularly within healthcare – and construction, especially in hospital environments.

Personal attributes matter just as much. Cavell is looking for people with:

• A strong and visible passion for the charity’s purpose and mission
• An open, collaborative and inclusive leadership style
• Excellent judgement, independence of thought and the highest levels of integrity
• Ability to build a collegiate board environment, always valuing diverse perspectives

How to apply

A short CV or profile is a great starting point, but not essential. If you’d like the full application details or to arrange an informal conversation about the role, please get in touch.

Our Regional Director, Amelia Lee, is leading this opportunity and an exploratory call with her forms part of the process ahead of shortlisting.

Deadline: 9am on Monday 22nd June 
Interview dates to be confirmed soon, likely to be happening early July.

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

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Our volunteers are a fundamental part of our shops. Any time which they volunteer at our shops, help us be there for more people who are experiencing a mental health problem. 

About the volunteer role

To provide our volunteers with opportunities to gain a variety of skills and experience, we offer them a range of volunteer roles to choose from, which include:

• Stock preparation volunteer
• Volunteer shop sales assistant
• Volunteer stock generation assistant
• Volunteer window dresser/Merchandiser
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (antiques and collectables)
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (books and entertainment)
• Housekeeping volunteer

Key tasks

There is a variety of tasks within the above mentioned roles that our volunteers get involved with, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers with their purchases, providing them with great customer service and a delightful shopping experience
• Receiving donated items from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated items for sale
• Creating visually appealing window and in-store displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, clean and coordinated
• Processing sales and serving at the till
• Signing up gift aid donors
• Stock rotation
• Identifying special or valuable items within donated stock

About you

• Passionate about customer service 
• Good communication skills 
• Friendly and helpful
• Respectful of others and their diversity

Experience & skills you will gain

• Experience of working as part of a team
• Retail experience 
• Stock organisation
• Selling skills 
• Customer service skills 

Our Commitment

We are committed to becoming actively anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services. We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.

How to Apply:

Please apply for our Volunteer role by emailing the following information to our shop team on: SHOP EMAIL ADDRESS

· Your full name (first name and surname)

· Your date of birth (all of our Volunteers must be a minimum of 18 years of age)

· Your email address

· Your phone number

· How many hours a week you’d be interested in volunteering in our Volunteer role for

Any personal information you share will be used solely for processing your application for volunteering.

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.

"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.