Volunteer roles for the Housing and Homelessness sector in Greater london

We are now seeking a Secretary to the Board to help ensure our governance remains strong, organised and effective.Help strengthen the governance of a Sheffield charity that has supported people who are homeless, rootless or vulnerable every Christmas since 1989.

For five days over the festive period, HARC provides a warm, safe day shelter offering hot meals, warm clothing, wellbeing support and companionship. Our work is powered by volunteers and guided by a committed Board of Trustees.

The Secretary plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth and effective running of the charity. You’ll help keep our governance processes organised, compliant, and aligned with best practice. 

We’re keen to welcome people who can bring energy, fresh perspectives and a real sense of commitment to our small but dedicated board. You don’t need prior governance or compliance experience as we provide a full induction and ongoing training to help you feel confident in the role.

Cheerer Volunteering at London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026

Would you like to have a great day out, while supporting Shelter’s fundraisers?

Information about the role

The main thing we need you to do is cheer! You will be a vital part of race day, supporting 450 Shelter runners from the side lines. You’ll need to help create a high energy, friendly atmosphere, motivating everyone on race day to do their best.

Volunteering at this event is also an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and experience some wonderful community spirit whilst contributing towards our mission.

Date: 12/04/2026

Time: 10:00 – 14:00

Location: Royal Courts of Justice, Strand, London, WC2A 2LL

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now by clicking ‘fill in an application’ or read on more for details.

This role fights the housing emergency by creating an inspirational buzz and providing much needed support to our fantastic runners, helping them in their mission to raise money for our Fight for Home.  

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering.

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity.

Next steps

If you would like to volunteer at this event, click ‘fill in an application’. After you have applied, we’ll be in touch to say hi and discuss the volunteering opportunity further.

Please note, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information.

"Hosting breaks down barriers and helps you realise how similar everyone is."  

Do you have a spare room in your home?

We are looking for people with a spare room who are willing to offer a temporary home and a helping hand to a refugee or person seeking asylum as they plan their next steps in the UK. Hosting is only ever temporary and you decide how long you are willing to host for; it can vary from a few nights to several months and anything in between. 

Who can be a host?

Anyone with a spare room, or even a sofa bed, that is well connected and has good public transport systems can apply to host. This enables guests to travel to college, school, support groups or jobs, and retain their independence.

All hosts will need to complete an application form, provide two references and have a home visit. 

Support available

We carefully assess each guest and host, match according to preferences, advise on hosting arrangements and preparations, and provide ongoing support to hosts throughout the placement. We stay in contact with you when you have a guest staying with you, and someone from the team is available seven days a week if you have any questions or problems.

We will discuss with you any preferences, such as if you would prefer not to host someone who has not been vaccinated against covid, or who smokes. This will be recorded on your profile on our database so that our whole Placement Team can access this and match you with a guest who fits your circumstances.

All guests, hosts and households are different. Some hosts share meals and do activities with guests; others just give guests a key, show them round and get on with their busy lives. Our team are available to support you through every stage of the process.

Why is hosting needed?

Refugees and people seeking asylum are fleeing war or persecution in their own countries. But many who come to the UK in search of safety find themselves facing homelessness and destitution. They may be without statutory support for long periods, or need some additional help to build new lives.

Hosting is such a practical way to support refugees and it sends a powerful message of welcome, that the UK is in fact kind and compassionate to those who are trying to rebuild their lives here.

Don't have a spare room?

Maybe you have a friend or family member who does. Consider speaking to them about hosting.

"There are so few times you can do something practical to help. Hosting refugees felt like a practical thing to do."

Refugees at Home is the UK’s largest independent hosting charity, connecting those with a spare room in their home to refugees and people seeking asylum in need of somewhere to stay. Our vision is for every refugee and every person seeking asylum to have a safe place to stay. 

Many of our guests come to us on the verge of homelessness – some have already spent time sleeping on the streets. Since starting in 2016, we have supported over 7,500 guests into hosting, but the need is not going away.

Role: Trustee 
Hours: Attendance at Board meetings six times a year, with reading and preparation before meetings
No Salary:  Unpaid volunteer role, expenses paid
Location: Meetings held on zoom or at our head office in London SE20
Deadline:  17th May 2026
Interviews:  In person in London SE20

ABOUT US

Bromley & Croydon Women's Aid (BCWA) aims to empower anyone suffering domestic abuse so they can make informed choices about their future. Our services are confidential, non-judgmental and respectful of diversity.

BCWA puts anyone who contacts us for support at the heart of decision making, so that they can gain the confidence, strength and self-respect needed to free themselves from abusive relationships

Our Ethos

BCWA believe in providing high-quality services to anyone fleeing domestic abuse. We have been working since 1975 to:

• focus on maintaining the independence, confidence and self-esteem of anyone we help
• be responsive to the needs of individuals in a culturally appropriate and sensitive way
• treat our residents, clients, staff and partners with integrity, honesty and respect.

Our Mission Statement

Our mission is to end all forms of domestic abuse in our community.  Our vision is to support and empower women to create change in their lives, so that they and their children can live free from domestic abuse and improve their quality of life.

OUR SERVICES

BCWA provide a wide range of services including:

Refuge

We provide safe accommodation for any woman and her children who is experiencing domestic abuse, or who is at risk of abuse.

Children are welcomed by Child Support Officers. Refuges have fully-equipped playrooms, where the project workers organise activities, after-school clubs, play sessions, fun days and one-to-one therapeutic activities.

BCWA is a registered housing provider with the Regulator or Social Housing (i.e. a Housing Association) and operates supported housing in a mix of owned and leased properties, some as managing agent for other housing associations, some operated independently.

Advice & Support

BCWA telephone Helpline supports women in the community who want to know what their options are around domestic abuse, or who need a non-judgmental listening ear. We run 12-week ‘Keys to Freedom’ support groups which offer a path to recognising abuse and peer support for recovery.

We offer advice to the friends and families of anyone experiencing domestic abuse. We give our expertise to legal and social services professionals, and we support women at appointments, accompany them to court, and also put them in contact with other services that can help them.

Our other services include:

Japanese service - BCWA, in partnership with the Japanese Embassy in London, offers outreach advice in Japanese to survivors of domestic abuse

NRPF/EEA service - Our specialist advisor works with migrant women without recourse to public funds (NRPF) and those from the EEA to regularise their immigration status and access benefits & support.

Men's service - All BCWA locations are women-only spaces, but men can be supported via our One Stop Shop service or by the IDSVA (high-risk) service in Bromley.

Our Approach to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Our work is based on building meaningful, supportive, enduring and respectful relationships with women from all cultures. We cannot do this without a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. BCWA’s approach is to try to make sure that EDI is central to everything we do and informs both our services and our organisational culture. 

Our goal is to develop and deliver consistently inclusive programmes, projects and services that support and bring together survivors of domestic abuse and their children and facilitate empowerment and recovery. We believe this enables best practice domestic abuse support, hope this will make everyone's experiences richer, and ultimately lead to more inclusive communities and sector best practice. 

BECOMING A TRUSTEE

What is a Trustee?

Trustees ensure their charity has a clear strategy, and that its work and goals are in line with its vision. A trustee's role in a charity is to be the ‘guardians of purpose’, making sure that all decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first. They safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation. They make sure these are used well and that the charity is run sustainably.

Why become a Trustee?

Being a Trustee can be very rewarding. As a Trustee you have the chance to support and shape the work and strategic direction of an organisation, and you can make a significant difference to a cause that matters to you.

Being a Trustee offers the opportunity for professional development. It can let you gain experience of strategy and leadership, and boost your CV. It will give you experience of being a non-executive director, such as setting a strategic vision, influencing and negotiation, and managing risk. If you already have significant experience in these areas, it can be stimulating to use it in a different and potentially challenging context. You will be part of a team and will have the opportunity to apply your unique skills and experience while learning from others. Working closely with a passionate team of people who have different perspectives is often one of the most enjoyable aspects of the role. Trustees often say that being a board member has been one the richest sources of learning in their professional lives.

Why join our board?

BCWA was founded by a group of local women in Bromley who wanted to do something practical to support women in their local community and has been run by women and for women ever since. Over the past few years the organisation has grown considerably but still operates very much in the spirit of grassroots feminist women’s movement of the 70s, out of which it was founded.

Many of our trustees, staff and volunteers have lived experience of domestic abuse, and the organisation actively welcome survivors at all levels. We are a supportive, warm and friendly group and we genuinely strive to foster great relationships. Our Board is made up of a diverse group of women with a broad range of backgrounds, skills and experience. This team operates on mutual respect and true collaboration in order to provide the best leadership possible to the charity. We are solutions oriented, creative, forward-thinking and passionate about working to end domestic abuse.

BCWA has seen sustained growth over the last few years and has increased its property portfolio to provide a range of dispersed ‘move on’ accommodation for women leaving refuge, with continued support.

The charity is also committed to an ongoing process of service improvement via stakeholder feedback and analysis of needs and gaps in provision. Our local knowledge and specialist expertise positions us very well to innovate in co-producing new services.

In addition to trauma-informed accommodation and community-based services, BCWA has developed a therapeutic service alongside, which encompasses child play therapy and a specialist in-house counselling service for women. This supports the health and wellbeing of survivors going forward as well as working towards the prevention of repeat victimisation.

A trusteeship with BCWA is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic organisation, contribute to the local community and impact thousands of women’s lives for the better. It is a truly pivotal time to join the board at BCWA, as we develop and implement innovative new services that will add significantly to the breadth and impact of support available to survivors of domestic abuse in Bromley & Croydon.

What skills are we looking for?

We are looking for a range of new trustees with a range of different skills to shape and steer the future of this dynamic organisation, as well as bring wisdom, energy and new perspectives to our governance.  We would particularly welcome applications from women with knowledge of or experience working in the following sectors:

· Social housing, social investment, housing, company or charity or general legal background

· Provision of mental health services

· AI expertise

ROLE DESCRIPTION

We are looking for strategic-minded individuals with a variety of skills to join our board. Our trustees play an essential role in making sure that BCWA achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that we have a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.

Trustee duties

• To ensure the BCWA is carrying out its purposes, as set out in its governing document.
• To ensure the charity complies with its governing document, charity law and any other applicable laws.
• To act in the charity’s best interests, making balanced and adequately informed decisions.
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees in giving firm strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets (including evaluating performance against set targets).
• To provide guidance using previous experience and expertise on a range of aspects of BCWA's business, including support to set up new initiatives.
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the Organisation.
• To monitor the financial, strategic and operational performance of BCWA.

In addition to the above responsibilities, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they possess, to enable the Board to reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, scrutinising reports, providing advice and guidance on new issues, particularly where a Trustee has specific expertise. Our board meets bi-monthly and holds an Annual General Meeting.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision: working to end domestic abuse.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

What impact will you have?

You will be joining an organisation actively opposed to all forms of discrimination providing a service that is confidential, non-judgmental and respectful of diversity.

You will have the opportunity to showcase your skills as well as learn new ones.

We are a feminist organisation and recognise the gendered nature of domestic abuse and other forms of violence against women and girls.

Time Commitment

• Attendance at board meetings which take place six times a year. Meetings are held in the early evening, mostly on-line, with one or two held in-person at our south-east London Head Office.
• Trustees will also need to carry out any pre-meeting reading and preparation and may be contacted occasionally for advice.

Further Information

We are very happy to have informal discussions about the role and warmly welcome candidates to visit us or observe a board meeting if they wish.

New Trustees are assigned an existing member who is responsible for their induction and support for a period of 6 months.

As our organisation works with extremely vulnerable clients, safeguarding is one of our key priorities. Please contact us if you would like more info or to view our SG policies. In light of this, offers are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Female applicants only: In light of the nature of work, the candidate’s gender is considered to be an occupational requirement in accordance with Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010. 

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: BCWA is committed to supporting and promoting equality & diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. To achieve this, we seek to employ a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds to better represent the communities we serve. 

BCWA is an Equal Opportunities Employer. 

Reg. Charity No.1068007. 

In this role, you will be supporting us with all or some of the following tasks:

• Support our team of Gardener Trainers with running the sessions at our central garden location (Cedars Rd, Clapham)

• Support clients with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities to engage in accessible gardening tasks within our Putting Down Roots programme (Gardening Training course)

• Make activities accessible and safer

• Undertake some basic gardening activities with clients

• Adhering to St Mungo’s Policies and Procedures at all times.

We are looking for a volunteer to support our ESOL classes on Tuesdays (10:45am–4:45pm) and Wednesdays (10:30am–1:30pm). You can volunteer for one of the days or help cover both sessions. Your support would make a real difference in helping learners build their English skills and confidence, and volunteers are a valued part of our classes.

How will I be ending homelessness?

Our Learning and Skills offer focuses on 5 key areas that we believe will help members to leave homelessness for good. These are English, finance, digital inclusion, employment and enterprise and business. As a Learning and Skills Assistant, you will be supporting our tutors and Learning and Skills Mentors to deliver a package of learning to meet outcomes identified by Lead Workers in members progression plans.

Tasks you will support with include:

· Planning

o Sharing any thoughts and ideas you have as part of the planning for a session

o Support with preparing resources for the session/setting up/tidying up any equipment and materials

· Delivery

o Creating a safe, welcome and non-judgemental learning space

o With direction from the tutor/Learning and Skills Mentor, supporting members within the group to increase both their knowledge and confidence on how that learning can be applied to support them in managing a home

o Supporting tutors and mentors with managing the group, and feeding back any concerns you have

You will work closely with the tutor/ mentor who will understand the needs and learning outcomes required for the session.

To be successful in this role we are looking for someone who:

· Is interested in the above subjects. Some subject knowledge would be beneficial, but the session will be led by the tutor/mentor

· Has the skills and confidence to support learners effectively, understand different learning needs and making individuals feel comfortable in the learning space

· Is empathetic and compassionate to the needs of those experiencing homelessness

· Is able to communicate well with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds including those who have a range of needs (for example mental health and substance misuse) and who may have English as a second language.

· Is a good listener and patient

· Understands the importance of keeping an individual’s personal information secure and private and working within the boundaries of the role to keep everyone safe 

· Is passionate about standing with Crisis and our members to end homelessness.

If you have experience learning a second or third language, this can be particularly helpful in supporting our learners and understanding the challenges they may face. There may also be opportunities to develop your own presentation and facilitation skills, including leading or presenting parts of a session if this is something you would like to try.

Join us as a Trustee / Director and make a difference!

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in the community? Do you have a strong desire to contribute your skills to a cause that matters? We invite you to become a Trustee / Director and be a driving force for change!

Who we are: A purpose-driven charity, dedicated to making a difference to the lives of young, homeless people. We believe in the power of community, collaboration, and transparency to create lasting change.

Our organisation comprises a registered Charity and Community Interest Company, each with its own Board. The Charity provides supported accommodation, advice, support & guidance to vulnerable, homeless young people. The Community Interest Company provides 24 / 7 concierge services to CAYSH young people & externally to vulnerable adults with complex needs.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking dedicated individuals to join our board of Trustees / Directors.

What we're looking for: Passionate individuals from a variety of backgrounds, with a range of expertise to contribute to our board. We are particularly looking for people with skills and experience in:

· Enterprise – running and growing a small business

· Fundraising

· Cyber security.

As a Trustee / Director, you will play a pivotal role in guiding our organisation towards success and helping us develop our business growth strategy. We are particularly seeking a trustee with safeguarding experiences.

Why you should join us as a trustee / director: Impact: Be part of an organisation making a real difference in the lives of homeless young people. Leadership: Contribute to strategic decision-making and shape the future direction of the organisation. Fulfilment: Experience the satisfaction of knowing that your efforts contribute to positive change.

Commitment to safeguarding young people and vulnerable adults is essential as well as commitment to equal opportunities and eliminating discriminatory practice.

Time commitment: Our Trustees and Directors provide a valuable and positive contribution, building on our strengths and ensuring our results are sustained. There are currently 9 Trustees / Directors within the Group who bring a wide range of skills, knowledge and experience to the organisation.

To support the decision making at CAYSH, you will attend an average of 4 Board meetings and up to 4 Committee meetings a year, plus Trustee / Director away-days & other events, such as AGM. Meetings are held outside regular business hours and are mostly online. Events (including strategy days, AGM and service user get-togethers) usually take place at our offices in Croydon.

How to Apply: If you are ready to embark on a rewarding journey and become a Trustee with CAYSH, we would love to hear from you!

Apply now and become a catalyst for positive change! Together, let's build a better future.

Position Title: VLT member
Reporting to: Volunteer Leadership Team (VLT) - Volunteer Lead
Organisation: Sevenoaks Welcomes Refugees (SWR)
Location: Sevenoaks Town and surrounding areas within the district council area
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week
Remuneration: Voluntary Position (Expenses Reimbursed)
Background to the charity
Sevenoaks Welcomes Refugees is a local charity formed in March 2017. We are a small and growing charity, whose volunteers and supporters have come together to welcome and help support the refugees who have fled the fighting and persecution in Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine, and are now resettling in our community.
Starting with just one refugee family, we have expanded our efforts over the years and are proud to have supported about 50 families as they settle and rebuild their lives in our community.
Purpose of Role:
Would you like to make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of refugee families as they settle into life in Britain—supporting them to achieve independence and integrate confidently into their new communities?
As a member of the SWR Voluntary Leadership Team (VLT), you will contribute to the effective delivery of core services for refugees and help support and coordinate our valued volunteers.
Our work spans general support with settling in, integration, building independence, language learning, educational guidance, and assistance in accessing suitable employment. In this role, you’ll work closely with other VLT members, with a particular focus on the general support function, collaborating with volunteer teams and ensuring they are well-informed, resourced, and confident in providing person-centred support.
This is a chance to contribute meaningfully within a growing, well-regarded charity, alongside a dedicated and compassionate team of volunteers who share your passion for helping others.
Key Responsibilities:
● Support communication between lead volunteers and central SWR services to help source equipment or assistance for families.
● Help oversee the changing needs of families, recognising that support levels will gradually reduce as independence builds.
● Collaborate with local authority support workers where families are still receiving formal assistance.
● Assist in developing and tracking Path to Independence Plans for families.
● Liaise with team leads across Education, Language, and Employment functions.
● Keep the Volunteer Lead and wider VLT informed as appropriate.
Skills & Qualities Needed
You should be:
● Compassionate, patient, and non-judgmental
● A good communicator, both in writing and in person
● Organised, with strong attention to detail
● Flexible and culturally sensitive to varying family needs
● Reasonably confident with IT tools (email, shared files, online forms, etc.)
Experience in teaching, social care, or charity work is useful, but not essential. A genuine interest in helping others and working collaboratively is most important.
Support & Training Provided
All SWR volunteers are expected to complete an induction, including mandatory safeguarding training. We also provide training on cultural awareness to help volunteers support families sensitively and effectively.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage you to highlight any specific adjustments that would enable you to participate fully in the recruitment process.

About the Role

We are seeking a proactive, confident, and highly organised Volunteer Housing & Asset Management Administrator to support our busy Housing and Asset Management teams.

This role is ideal for someone looking to gain experience within a housing association or supported housing environment while making a meaningful contribution to services supporting vulnerable residents.

What we do

Causeway is a small housing association, originally set up to accommodate young Irish migrants, and now providing housing and support services to people from anywhere in the world, with a wide range of needs – from those who just need an affordable place to live, to those who need a helping hand to achieve their life goals.

What we offer

We offer the opportunity to be part of a diverse, multi-disciplinary team, where your skills and creativity will be valued. You will grow and develop with colleagues in similar roles and work collaboratively with other team members, gaining experience in new areas while contributing to the learning of others. As a volunteer, we will cover reasonable travel expenses, provide training opportunities internally and externally, and offer fully flexible working days and hours. 

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and abilities. We can provide reasonable adjustments to support volunteers who may need them, at interview stage and/or once in the role.

Minimum Age: 18

References Required: We will ask for two employment/character references: These can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Criminal record check: This is conducted by CIHA at no cost to the potential volunteer. This role requires a basic check.

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands, or other information may not nessessarily mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Volunteer with Shelter at the 2026 London Marathon

Would you like to have a great day out, while supporting Shelter’s fundraisers? 

The main thing we need you to do is cheer! You will be a vital part of race day, supporting 290 Shelter runners from the side lines. You’ll need to help create a high energy, friendly atmosphere, motivating everyone on race day to do their best.

Volunteering at this event is also an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and experience some wonderful community spirit whilst contributing towards our mission. 

Date: 26th April 2026 

Time: Between 10:00-17:00 (3hr shifts available) 

Locations: Various – Greenwich (Mile 7), Bermondsey (Mile 12), Canary Wharf (Mile 18), and Embankment (Mile 25) 

This role fights the housing emergency by creating an inspirational buzz and providing much needed support to our fantastic runners, helping them in their mission to raise money for our Fight for Home.

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter 

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering. 

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity. 

Next steps 

If you would like to volunteer at this event, fill in an application. After you have applied, we’ll be in touch to say hi and discuss the volunteering opportunity further. 

Please note, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information.

Unify is building a social impact platform that helps get direct, practical support to people who need it most — with dignity, transparency, and real-world usability at the core.

We’re looking for a Senior Developer / Tech Lead (Volunteer) to guide the build, unblock the team, and help us ship a solid, scalable product. This is a light commitment (2–5 hours per week), but a high-leverage role: you’ll be working closely alongside the founders and our Product Manager.

What you’ll do (2–5 hrs/week)

• Lead engineering direction: keep the build clean, pragmatic, and shippable.

• Review PRs and raise code quality (architecture, security, performance, maintainability).

• Help prioritise technical work with the founders + Product Manager.

• Support and mentor a small volunteer/dev team (light-touch guidance, not heavy management).

• Set up or improve engineering foundations (CI/CD, environments, observability, release process).

• Identify risk early (security, data handling, scalability) and propose solutions.

What we’re building

• A production product with real users and real-world constraints.

• A platform where trust, safety, and reliability matter as much as features.

Tech stack

MERN stack

• MongoDB (database)

• Express.js (backend framework)

• React (frontend)

• Node.js (runtime / API layer)

What we’re looking for

• Senior-level software engineering experience (ideally with leading small teams or acting as tech lead).

• Strong product sense: you can balance “build it right” with “ship it”.

• Comfortable in ambiguous, early-stage environments.

• Solid judgement around security, data handling, and best practices.

• A collaborative communicator who can keep things calm and moving.

Nice to have (not required)

• Experience with marketplaces, payments, identity/verification flows, or credit/voucher systems.

• Experience setting up CI/CD, testing strategy, and deployment pipelines for MERN apps.

• Previous work in startups, charities, civic tech, or social impact.

Why join (and what you’ll get)

• Real ownership and influence — your decisions shape the product.

• Work directly with the founders + Product Manager.

• A mission-led build where shipping matters and the work is tangible.

• Flexibility: async-first, lightweight weekly rhythm.

Time + format

• Volunteer: 2–5 hours per week

• Remote / hybrid (where relevant)

• Async-first with a short weekly check-in

Interested?
Send a short note with your background + links (GitHub/LinkedIn/portfolio) and we’ll set up a quick chat

We are currently looking for Welcome and Reception Volunteers to join our supportive team in Brent. Shifts are available on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays or Fridays (10am - 4pm) with a minimum commitment of one day a week. Same time each week for a minimum of six months. 

Shortlisting will take place W/C 30th March and interviews will take place Tuesday 14th April. 

How will I be ending homelessness?

As a Welcome and Reception Volunteer you will be the first point of contact for many people who need to access our services. This contact may set the tone for our relationship with that individual and whether they choose to get the help we can offer, so the warm, non-judgemental, and informative welcome you create could set them on the journey to ending their homelessness.

What will I be doing?

Tasks you will support the team with include:

• Welcome
  • Welcoming visitors to the Skylight and ensuring they sign in and out
  • Signposting to reception and information areas
  • Directing members to activities within the Skylight and encouraging engagement
  • Chat to members while they are waiting and offer and provide refreshments
  • Ensuring information stands are well stocked and up to date
  • Supporting with filling in of basic forms
  • Carrying out building tours where required and/or showing members to their classes/appointments
• Reception
  • Responding to and making telephone calls
  • Checking members in and out on our MAPS (members records) database
  • Notifying Lead Workers that members have arrived for their appointments
  • Supporting with any front of house administration tasks including supporting Engagement and Assessment Officers with tasks such as sending out travel passes and conducting research when required

Who are we looking for?

 To be successful in this role we are looking for someone who:

• Is an excellent communicator, confident in building relationships and creating welcoming, compassionate environments, and able to recognise conflict and remain calm in challenging situations. 
• You should be confident interacting with individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds, including those with English as a second language
• Has a good level of English 
• Is non-judgemental, patient, and reliable
• Has good IT and telephone skills with the ability to use internet, email, excel and databases
• Has good organisational skills
• Understands the importance of keeping an individual’s personal information secure and private and working within the boundaries of the role to keep everyone safe 
• Is passionate about standing with Crisis and our members to end homelessness

What do I need to do this role?

As part of your recruitment, you will need to provide details for one referee, and we will complete a basic disclosure check. Your referee will need to be a professional or academic reference (this could include a reference from a volunteer role).

Location: Remote or In-person (London-based preferred, flexible)
Hours: 20 hours per month (flexible)
Compensation: Revenue split per session – 60% to Counsellor / 40% to Guardian Light Enterprises LTD
Payment Schedule: Weekly or monthly, depending on preference (flexible to support cash flow)

About Guardian Light Enterprises LTD

Guardian Light Enterprises LTD is the revenue-generating arm of Guardian Light Foundation, a social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of children, teenagers, and single-parent families affected by homelessness, abuse, and hardship. Every service we provide contributes directly to creating safe spaces, housing, education, and empowerment programs for vulnerable communities.

As a freelance counsellor with us, you are not just offering sessions—you are helping people heal, build resilience, and find hope, while supporting a social mission that changes lives.

Role Overview

We are seeking a compassionate, skilled, and dedicated Freelance Counsellor to provide emotional support, guidance, and therapy sessions to our clients. This is a unique opportunity to work in a mission-driven social enterprise where your expertise directly fuels social impact.

As a counsellor, you will:

• Provide individual and group counselling sessions for children, teenagers, and single-parent families.

• Use your professional expertise to guide clients through challenges including trauma, grief, anxiety, and abuse recovery.

• Maintain strict confidentiality and safeguarding standards in line with UK regulations.

• Collaborate with Guardian Light Enterprises and the Foundation team to refer clients to additional support programs where appropriate.

• Participate in impact reporting to help shape future programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct high-quality counselling sessions tailored to individual client needs.

• Document sessions and maintain records securely in compliance with safeguarding and GDPR policies.

• Promote emotional wellbeing, resilience, and empowerment for clients.

• Engage with Guardian Light Enterprises LTD in strategic discussions to improve program delivery.

• Attend occasional training and team meetings (via Microsoft Teams).

Ideal Candidate

• Accredited Counsellor, Psychotherapist, or Mental Health Professional with relevant UK registration.

• Experience working with children, teenagers, and vulnerable families.

• Strong empathy, emotional intelligence, and a trauma-informed approach.

• Excellent communication and documentation skills.

• Passionate about social impact and committed to transforming lives.

Hours & Compensation

• Recommended: 8–12 hours per month (approx. 2–3 clients per week, depending on session length).

• Compensation: Revenue split per session – 60% to you, 40% to Guardian Light Enterprises LTD.

• Payment Schedule: Flexible – weekly or monthly, depending on mutual preference and cash flow management.

Benefits

Even at this early stage, joining Guardian Light Enterprises LTD offers unique benefits:

• Impact-driven work: Every session contributes to funding programs that directly support children and single-parent families in crisis.

• Flexible schedule: Set your hours around your availability.

• Professional growth: Access to training and development opportunities.

• Career progression: Exceptional counsellors may be invited to join our Advisory Board or eventually become a Board Member, shaping the direction of Guardian Light Foundation.

• Recognition: A chance to build your personal and professional brand as part of a pioneering social enterprise.

• Supportive environment: Collaborate with a passionate, mission-driven team dedicated to real change.

Location: Remote / Hybrid (UK-based)
Type: Freelance / Contract – Flexible hours
Revenue Share: 70% to Solicitor / 30% to Guardian Light Enterprises LTD

About Guardian Light Enterprises LTD

At Guardian Light Enterprises LTD, we are more than a social enterprise — we are a beacon of hope for children, teenagers, and single-parent families facing homelessness, abuse, and hardship.

Our mission is to empower and protect the most vulnerable, giving them the tools, legal support, and guidance they need to build brighter futures. Every session you deliver as a solicitor doesn’t just provide legal advice — it gives someone dignity, hope, and a chance to reclaim their life.

Role Purpose

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated freelance solicitors to provide expert legal guidance to our beneficiaries. This role is flexible, allowing you to use your legal expertise to make a tangible difference in the lives of children, teenagers, and single-parent families who urgently need your support.

You will:

• Offer legal advice on family law, employment rights, housing, or other related areas

• Guide clients through complex legal processes with clarity and empathy

• Provide practical, actionable advice that empowers clients to take control of their lives

• Collaborate with GLF staff and volunteers to ensure clients are supported holistically

Hours & Commitment

• Recommended: 6–12 hours per month at the early stage

• Sessions can be scheduled flexibly to suit your availability and client needs

• Each session revenue split: 70% to you, 30% reinvested into GLF programs

Compensation & Payment

• Paid per session based on agreed client engagement

• Revenue sharing model ensures fair and transparent payment

• Payment schedule: monthly for simplicity, with detailed statements provided

• Additional incentives: high-performing solicitors may be offered Board Member or Advisory Board roles

Skills & Experience

• Qualified solicitor in the UK, practising in relevant areas (family law, housing, employment, or youth-focused law)

• Strong empathy, patience, and communication skills

• Comfortable working remotely and in collaboration with a mission-driven team

• Passion for social justice, children’s rights, and supporting vulnerable communities

Policies & Safeguarding

• DBS check required (Enhanced, £12.50 volunteer rate)

• Commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults

• Adherence to GLF Confidentiality, Data Protection, and Equality policies

Benefits

• Directly impact the lives of vulnerable children, teens, and families

• Flexible working hours to suit your schedule

• Opportunities for professional growth, networking, and community recognition

• Invitation to join our Advisory Board or Board of Directors as the enterprise scales

• Being part of a mission that transforms lives — where every hour you give makes a tangible difference

• Public recognition on GLF communications, website, and reports

Ideal Candidate Profile

You are someone who:

• Believes that legal guidance is a lifeline for those who have nowhere else to turn

• Feels fulfilled by using your expertise to create social impact

• Is proactive, compassionate, and able to work independently

• Wants to be part of a groundbreaking social enterprise at the startup stage

• Values ethical work, transparency, and accountability