Volunteer roles in Hornchurch

We’re looking for a new Brand, Communications and Creative Trustee who can use their skills to support our growing charity. In early 2026, CLAPA relaunched with a new brand identity. This role will ensure that our team are supported in brand and content strategy and making the most of the new brand for growth and engagement.

The Brand, Communications and Creative Trustee will participate in all areas of the charity’s governance with a special interest in brand strategy, content, communications and creative to support with the Board’s understanding and interpretation.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing CLAPA’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we continue to implement our 5-year strategy for 2025-2030.

About CLAPA

The Cleft Lip and Palate Action (CLAPA) is the national charity for people affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom.

CLAPA supports people affected by cleft to take control of their journey, connect with others, and use their voices to impact the future of care. Our vision is that no one affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom will go through their journey alone.

The Organisation

London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) is the UK’s largest charitable childcare social enterprise, with an ambition of changing the world, one child at a time. With 43 nurseries across 13 London boroughs, we deliver high quality early years education and care to children and families across the capital. Founded in 1903, LEYF has evolved into a purpose driven organisation that combines financial sustainability with a clear social mission, reinvesting all surplus into our nurseries, our people and the communities we serve.

Together with families and communities, we give London’s children, especially those most in need, the best start in life through access to affordable, high quality early years education and care. We focus our work in areas of disadvantage, where it can have the greatest impact, supporting children’s development and strengthening communities. Our approach centres on learning through play, creativity and exploration, delivered by skilled and passionate teams. Through our apprenticeships and the London Institute of Early Years, we provide industry leading learning and development opportunities, equipping our people with the skills and knowledge to deliver excellent outcomes for all children. Through strong partnerships and a commitment to continuous improvement, we extend our impact beyond our nurseries and play an active role in shaping the early years sector, while creating inclusive environments where every child and colleague can thrive.

The Role

LEYF is seeking a Chair of Trustees to lead its Board and support the organisation in achieving its charitable objectives and strategic priorities. The Chair plays a central role in ensuring strong governance, enabling LEYF to deliver high quality, cost effective services to children, families and partners, and to maximise its social impact as it grows. Through strong leadership of the Board, you will help guide the organisation as it continues to expand its reach, strengthen its model and deliver meaningful, lasting impact for children and families across London.

This is an opportunity to make a significant difference to the life chances of disadvantaged children by contributing your skills, judgement and strategic insight within a mission driven organisation. You will work alongside a passionate and committed team, leading a Board of Trustees that is collaborative, professional and deeply engaged in LEYF’s purpose. As Chair, you will play a key role in shaping strategy, supporting sustainable growth and ensuring effective governance at an important and exciting stage in the organisation’s development.

The Person

We are seeking an experienced, values led individual who can provide strong leadership to the Board and support LEYF in delivering its social mission at scale.

Experience and Knowledge

• Senior leadership and Board level experience, with a strong understanding of governance
• Commercial awareness and an understanding of how a social enterprise operates
• Ability to navigate the balance between social purpose and financial sustainability
• Experience of complex or growing organisations, ideally across the UK
• Understanding of, or interest in, the early years sector and wider social impact landscape
• Ability to engage effectively with stakeholders across a politically neutral environment

Skills and Capabilities

• Strategic, pragmatic and calm, with sound judgement and the ability to absorb complexity
• Strong influencing and networking skills, with the ability to build partnerships
• Confident communicator, able to represent LEYF with credibility at a senior level
• Financial awareness, with the ability to balance sustainability and risk in decision making

Leadership Style and Personal Qualities

• Values driven, with a strong commitment to LEYF’s mission
• Supportive and appropriately challenging, acting as a constructive critical friend
• Agile and not risk averse, comfortable supporting innovation and growth
• Inclusive and emotionally intelligent, able to foster effective Board dynamics

Commitment

• Willingness to be visible and engaged, including attending meetings, events and visiting nurseries in London
• Ability to commit sufficient time to the role and support LEYF externally where appropriate

Diversity and Inclusion
We warmly welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds,  particularly those underrepresented at Board level. We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and believe this strengthens our impact.

Further Information

For further information about LEYF, the role responsibilities and the person they are looking for, please download the Candidate Briefing Pack.

How to Apply

If you are interested in this fantastic opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of others, please submit an application which includes the following:

• An up to date CV with details of two referees (we will not contact them without your prior permission).
• A supporting statement, which addresses your suitability against the criteria in the Person Specification, and details your motivations for applying.

We are looking for a Volunteer Investigative Journalist to research, uncover, and report stories that align with our mission. This role is ideal for students, hobbyists, career changers, or those with lived experience who want to tell stories about social injustice, trauma, and community issues.

You will work closely with the Volunteer Editorial Lead, who will guide editing, fact-checking, and narrative development, ensuring every story is polished and impactful.
 
Key Responsibilities
Story Research
•        Identify potential stories related to CSA awareness, safeguarding, survivor experiences, or systemic issues
•        Conduct responsible research to verify facts and context
•        Identify individuals or sources willing to share their story
Interviews & Story Development
•        Conduct interviews via online platforms or in person where appropriate
•        Develop stories in a respectful, trauma-informed way
•        Work with the editorial lead to shape stories into publishable content
Ethical Journalism
•        Prioritise consent, confidentiality, and safeguarding
•        Ensure stories are handled with care and sensitivity
•        Protect the dignity and safety of individuals sharing their experiences
Reporting Output
•        Aim to produce one story per month or at an agreed pace
 
Types of Stories We Encourage
Stories may include:
•        Survivor journeys and recovery stories
•        Community awareness and prevention efforts
•        Failures or gaps in safeguarding systems from whistleblowers, retired professionals, etc
•        Advocacy work and survivor support initiatives
•        Cultural or societal issues surrounding abuse disclosure
•        Investigative pieces highlighting systemic concerns
The focus should always remain respectful, responsible, and survivor-centred.
 
Skills & Experience (Helpful but Not Required)
We welcome individuals at beginner to intermediate to expert level who are eager to continuous learning.
Helpful experience includes:
•        Journalism, media, or writing experience
•        Interviewing and research skills
•        Interest in investigative storytelling
•        Podcasting, documentary, or narrative journalism
•        Academic study in journalism, sociology, criminology, psychology, or law
Lived experience and a passion for truth-telling and social awareness are highly valued.
 
Personal Qualities
We are looking for volunteers who are:
•        Curious and thoughtful researchers
•        Compassionate and respectful listeners
•        Ethical in handling sensitive topics
•        Comfortable speaking with people about difficult experiences
•        Committed to responsible storytelling
Because this role involves sensitive subject matter, emotional maturity and ethical awareness are essential.
 
Working Arrangement
This role is remote and flexible.
Volunteers may:
•        Conduct interviews online from anywhere in the world
•        Investigate stories within their local communities
•        Work independently while receiving editorial guidance
This allows volunteers to pursue stories within their own environment or network.
 
What You Will Gain
•        Real investigative journalism experience
•        Opportunity to build a portfolio of meaningful stories 
•        Opportunity to apply for paid positions once C.I.C grows
•        Mentorship and editorial guidance
•        Experience working with a mission-driven C.I.C
•        Opportunity to contribute to awareness and social impact
 
Important Note
Due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter, all stories must be handled with:
•        Full consent from participants
•        Respect for confidentiality
•        Survivor-centred ethics
Tell My Truth & Shame the Devil C.I.C. prioritises dignity, safety, and responsible storytelling in all work we publish.
 
How to Apply
Please send:
•        A short introduction about yourself
•        Your interest in investigative storytelling
•        Any writing, research, or media work (if available)

Students, early-career journalists, and individuals with lived experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

Community and Fundraising Volunteers play a vital role in raising funds and awareness to support mums experiencing perinatal mental health challenges. This is a friendly, hands-on role where you’ll help plan, prepare, and deliver fundraising and community engagement activities. From supporting events and running stalls to chatting with supporters and sharing information about MumsAid’s services, you’ll be an important part of a welcoming and supportive team. 

No previous experience is required — just enthusiasm, reliability, and a genuine desire to support mums and their families. 

What will you be doing? 

• Supporting the planning and delivery of fundraising and community events, such as charity stalls, coffee mornings, sponsored activities, and awareness days. 

• Helping to create a lively, positive, and welcoming atmosphere at MumsAid events. 

• Engaging with members of the public, supporters, and participants, celebrating their involvement and encouraging donations. 

• Talking to people about MumsAid’s work and signposting to support where appropriate. 

• Assisting with event set-up and pack-down to ensure everything runs smoothly. 

• Handling cash and card donations responsibly, in line with MumsAid procedures. 

• Helping to raise awareness of perinatal mental health and the importance of early support. 

• Being part of a team that helps make MumsAid events inspiring, inclusive, and memorable. 

• Following MumsAid’s policies and procedures, including health and safety and safeguarding, to ensure events run smoothly. 

What skills and qualities can you bring? 

• Warm, welcoming, and friendly personality. 

• Enthusiastic and positive, with a willingness to get involved and encourage others. 

• Comfortable chatting with people from a range of backgrounds. 

• Able to work as part of a team and follow guidance from staff. 

• Reliable, punctual, and committed to agreed volunteer shifts. 

• Comfortable being outdoors in all weathers when required. 

• Able to stand for several hours or bring something to sit on if needed. 

• Able to travel independently to event locations. 

• Supportive of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and respectful of confidentiality and boundaries. 

What is in it for me? 

• Join a friendly, welcoming, and supportive volunteer team. 

• Be part of a community-focused charity making a real difference for mums and families. 

• Access to guidance and any relevant training to help you feel confident in your role. 

• Gain experience in volunteering, events, and fundraising. 

• Receive clear communication and support from the MumsAid fundraising and events team, including event details and meeting points. 

• Volunteer t-shirt and any event materials provided. 

• Reimbursement of pre-agreed travel expenses (with receipts). 

Bring your energy, positivity, and enthusiasm to MumsAid’s Community and Fundraising Team and help make a meaningful difference for mums and families in your community. Your support truly matters.

Volunteer Delivery Driver needed to collect and deliver essential baby items to mums across the Greenwich Borough.
Flexible hours, training provided, and expenses reimbursed.

Purpose of Role 

Many of the mums we support cannot collect essential items themselves due to financial hardship, mobility issues, mental health challenges, or caring responsibilities. Volunteer Delivery Drivers help ensure essential donated items reach mums supported by MumsAid safely, respectfully, and with dignity. This role involves collecting goods from Mammakind Charity and delivering them directly to families, many of whom are experiencing hardship, isolation, or vulnerability. Due to the nature of this role, you will be in direct contact with vulnerable mums and their families, so a strong commitment to safeguarding, confidentiality, and professional boundaries is essential. 

What will you be doing? 

• Liaise with MumsAid team about delivery schedules 

• Collect and safely transport donated items from Mammakind Charity 

• Deliver items sensitively to families 

• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries 

• Follow safeguarding guidance at all times 

• Report safeguarding or welfare concerns immediately to the MumsAid team 

• Promote and support equality, diversity and inclusion 

• Attend induction and role-specific training and take part in feedback sessions 

What skills and qualities can you bring? 

• Warm, welcoming personality; good at putting others at ease 

• Empathetic, non-judgemental nature 

• Some awareness of mental health challenges (especially maternal mental health) 

• Strong commitment to MumsAid values: empowering, safe, peer-led, inclusive, sustainable 

• Understanding of confidentiality and when safeguarding takes precedence, in line with MumsAid policies and procedures 

• Clear communication skills whilst maintaining professional boundaries 

• Ability to work independently while following procedures 

• Physically able to lift and transport items safely, following manual handling guidance 

• Ability to remain calm, respectful, and appropriate in sensitive situations 

• Reliable, with good timekeeping 

• Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion 

• Openness to feedback 

• Willingness to complete volunteer induction 

• Willing to undergo DBS check 

What is in it for me? 

• Induction and training, including safeguarding training 

• Ongoing support and feedback 

• Reimbursement of travel expenses (with receipts) 

• Make a real difference to the lives of local mums and their families 

• Gain valuable experience in supporting vulnerable families 

• Develop active listening, communication, and safeguarding skills 

• Part of a welcoming volunteer team 

• Part of a supportive, community-focused charity 

• Written references provided on request 

• A DBS check paid for by MumsAid (if required) 

Requirements 

• Full, valid UK driving licence 

• Access to a suitable vehicle for deliveries 

• Valid vehicle insurance, MOT, and road tax 

• Volunteers must confirm with their insurer that their vehicle policy covers charity volunteering 

• Willingness to provide relevant documentation upon request 

• Physically able to lift and carry items, following manual handling guidance 

• DBS check (or willingness to apply, supported by MumsAid) 

• Agreement to follow all MumsAid policies and procedures 

MumsAid cannot accept responsibility for vehicle insurance, fines, or driving-related offences 

Hours: Flexible hours, with a minimum commitment of 3 hours per week, usually on a Thursday, in line with client and charity needs 

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting Child Action Northwest in their search for new Trustees.

About Child Action Northwest (CANW)

CANW has been in existence for over 130 years since the founding of Blackburn Orphanage in 1886, we’ve been caring for children and young people from some of the most deprived areas of the region.

CANW exists as a modern charity providing quality services to children, young people and families across the Northwest.

The inequality that exists up and down the country means that many communities face complex challenges -simply getting by is tough. 

Our mission is to support children, adults and families across the country, ensuring that when life presents difficult circumstances, we’re there every step of the way to make sure they get the support they need.

About the Trustee roles

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with skills in one or more of the following areas:

Finance and Commercial: we welcome applications from candidates who are financially astute, can read a set of accounts, and bring business acumen and commercial exposure. You will bring senior strategic finance experience developed in the voluntary, public, or private sector to help ensure that CANW is financially sustainable over the long term so we can continue to deliver vital services to children, young people and families across the Northwest.

Fundraising: whilst the majority of CANW’s income comes from commissioned services, we are still working to make sure that our income streams are robust and well diversified. Part of this strategy involves building up our efforts with respect to trusts, foundations, and major donors. 

Children’s Services: from the criminal justice system and residential services to support for neurodivergent children and young people and residential services, CANW operates a broad portfolio of services designed to give families the best chance at success in life. It is important that our board has deep expertise in these and other services. 

If you feel that you have skills, experience and a background that may add value to CANW’s Board but are not listed above, this doesn’t mean that we wouldn’t be happy to hear from you. Please get in touch.

About the Trainee Trustee opportunity

Given our focus on children and young people, CANW is deeply committed to representing those who use our services at Board level. We recognise that there are many young people out there at the forefront of professional skills development and we give equal value to recent experience as much as seniority in a field. 

Anyone from the age of 16 can become the Trustee of a Charitable Company such as CANW and we welcome applications from young people with skills in the following area:

Digital Communications: in an increasingly digital world, it is vital that CANW is effectively reaching people who need our services with our communications. We would love to hear from people who understand search engine optimisation (SEO), AI search, and raising brand awareness through digital channels.

This is a pivotal governance role for experienced, values-driven Trustees who can provide strategic insight, support strong and effective governance, and act as positive ambassadors for the organisation.

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in the following areas:

• People and Culture (including candidates interested in Chairing the People and Culture Subcommittee)
• Safeguarding and Youth Services
• Fundraising
• PR and Communications
• Finance

This is a pivotal leadership role for an experienced, values-driven Chair who can provide strategic direction and oversight, strong governance leadership, and visible ambassadorial support to the organisation.

Help older people claim welfare benefits through home visits, form-filling and friendly support.

About Us

Age UK Buckinghamshire is a local, independent charity and part of the wider Age UK Network. We support older people across the county through vital services including befriending, information and advice, dementia support, practical help at home, and welfare benefits support - helping people stay independent, connected, and supported.

Our work is more important now than ever. Many older people face growing challenges such as the rising cost of living, social isolation, and difficulty accessing support. 

As demand for our services continues to increase, community support is essential to help us reach more people in need. By raising awareness of what we do, we can ensure that older people know where to turn for help, and inspire others to support our work through volunteering, fundraising, and partnership.

What do Welfare Benefits Volunteers do?

Help older people boost their income by becoming a Welfare Benefits Volunteer.

Many older people face financial difficulties because they are not claiming all the welfare benefits they are entitled to. At Age UK Buckinghamshire, we support older people to access the benefits they deserve by offering personalised advice and practical help.

Our trained volunteer advisors visit people in their own homes to guide them through the claims process, completing benefit forms on their behalf and ensuring applications reflect their individual circumstances.

Following full training, you will be matched with clients for one-off home visits, usually lasting one to two hours. Along the way, there’s often time for a friendly chat, and perhaps a cup of tea, while making a real difference to someone’s quality of life.

What skills does a Welfare Benefits Advisor need?

• Empathy and patience with older people
• A professional, friendly and approachable manner
• Attention to detail and good record-keeping skills
• A non-judgemental approach
• Willingness to learn about older people’s benefits

What training do we provide?

Successful applicants complete 2 training sessions covering the needs of older people and welfare benefits.  At the end of this initial training, you will be “buddied” with one or more experienced volunteers, first as an observer and later as an advisor until you have the knowledge and confidence to undertake one-to-one visits.

How much time do we expect you to give?

Once trained, you can commit to as many or as few visits per week as you wish. Each visit takes, on average, about 1 – 2 hours.  There are quarterly meetings that provide support and additional training days from time to time to keep up with new legislation.

What is our commitment to you?

• We will provide initial and ongoing training to help you develop your knowledge and skills.
• We will continue to support you in your role, providing information and advice as necessary.
• We will discuss with you any problems you may have with your role, or any concerns we have.
• We will reimburse reasonable, approved out of pocket expenses.

Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a small, friendly charity based in Southwark, providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills. 

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Dance Fit Class Volunteer to support our weekly Thursday sessions 10.30am-12.30 or 1pm-3pm, held at St Faith’s Community Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations). 

About Dance Fit

Dance Fit is a fun way to stay active through music and movement. Sessions are designed to improve fitness, flexibility and confidence in a supportive and enjoyable environment. Routines and exercises can be performed standing or seated, making the sessions accessible for everyone. The group learns simple routines that can also be practised at home, and each July learners have the opportunity to perform to friends and family at our Summer Show!

About The Role 

This role is ideal for someone who loves to move. You’ll support our tutor in delivering inclusive and fun classes for a small group of adults with learning disabilities. Every class is an opportunity for the learners to express themselves freely, socialise with others and feel the benefits of physical activity on their wellbeing.

As a Dance Fit Class Volunteer at Stepping Stones, you will: 

• Assist the tutor in setting up and closing down the studio space
• Encourage and support learners 
• Demonstrate movements
• Offer 1:1 or group support where needed to help participants engage 
• Help build a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe to express themselves 

What You’ll Gain 

Volunteering with us is a chance to: 

• Contribute to a creative and meaningful community project 
• Build relationships with and support learners to learn new skills and grow in confidence 
• Experience working with adults with learning disabilities in a supportive setting 
• Develop skills in teamwork, adaptability, communication, and creative problem-solving 
• Have a place in a welcoming and friendly team of tutors, staff and volunteers 
• Receive appropriate training and guidance from an experienced team 

What We’re Looking For 

You don’t need to be a trained dancer to volunteer in this role! At Stepping Stones we value: 

• Good communication and a warm, encouraging approach 
• Enthusiasm, patience, and a willingness to get involved 
• A non-judgemental and inclusive mindset 
• Reliability and commitment 
• Flexibility and adaptability 

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to: 

• Attend an in-person session with the Stepping Stones team and learners 
• Provide two references 
• Complete a DBS check (we will arrange this) 
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we ask that you commit to volunteering with us for one year

How to Apply 

Please submit your CV and respond to the following questions (these will come up when you hit 'Apply Now') 

1. Why would you like to volunteer with Stepping Stones? 
2. What are the strongest attributes and values you feel you'll bring to this role? 

Become a Community Discharge Support Service Volunteer and help someone get back on their feet when they come home from hospital.

What do Community Support Volunteers do?

Our friendly Community Support Volunteers visit people when they have come home from hospital, typically once a week for 4 – 6 weeks.

At a time when people are recovering and really appreciate a bit of extra help you could be supporting with shopping and light housework. But it’s often the company and encouragement of our volunteers that is appreciated the most as we check in and chat!

By doing this we help with recovery and reduce the chance of readmission to hospital.

You can also help from our office in Aylesbury  by making welfare and check in calls with our clients and helping to arrange these visits.

What you will get out of it

It's a great way to make a real difference to someone's life at a time they especially need it.

You'll be giving something back to your community

You get to be part of Age UK Buckinghamshire's volunteer team

Volunteers tell us they find this really rewarding and get lots out of it themselves.

What is expected of me?

Community Support Volunteers are expected to visit each client once a week for up to 6 weeks.

These visits are flexible, based on your availability.

Our office support volunteers are asked to help for 1 – 2 hours a week.

Volunteers complete a short relevant training session and provide references.

Age UK Bucks ‘Age Better Bucks’ volunteers will support local older people to achieve personal goals – by helping them navigate and take advantage of a Support Plan devised by as community worker, that is designed to help them meet the challenges of older age.

This could be by phoning them to provide encouragement, explanation and support, and to check on progress, and also to help them with attendance at appointments and going to new groups or activities.

What do Age Better Bucks Volunteers do?

• Work with the Community Support Connector from Age UK Bucks to accept a client and understand their goals and support plan – and which services they have been referred to for support
• Contact the client to introduce yourself, and explain what you can help them with and if that’s OK with them
• Agree how your support is best provided – e.g. weekly calls for progress and encouragement, or help with something specific on their plan. That could be a home visit (if appropriate) to help them make a call or prepare for an appointment; attend a group or activity with them; or help them take a bus etc.
• Report back to the Community Support Connector if there are any issues or concerns and agree when your support can stop
• Ideally, you’d support a few clients each week or month, depending on how much time you have

The role is to support and help the client to access the referrals and support put in place for them – and not to support them with care or specific needs yourself. Referrals might be to local care services, to local groups or clubs, or to an occupational therapist for home adaptations, other voluntary organisations and support groups etc.

Our Age Better Bucks Service

Age Better Bucks supports over 65s who could benefit from extra support to manage their well being and remain independent. It is for older people experiencing challenges or need extra support to stay independent and well – for example increasing loneliness/isolation; bereavement; health/mobility decline; mood change.

Our team of support workers will assess their needs and circumstances specific to them, and develop an action plan with them to ensure more support and help can be arranged. We check in with the client after 6 weeks to see how they are getting on, and after 6 months to see how they are and check if anything has changed, got worse or improved.

The service is designed to give people the tools, contacts and support to make positive changes and especially to tackle the impact of loneliness and isolation.

An action plan, or support plan, will be devised with all clients, identifying their main goals based on their individual needs and challenges, and referring them, with their consent only, to other services and support we agree can help. At this stage we’ll assess if a volunteer like you can help then take full advantage of this support.

What you will get out of it

• Join an enthusiastic team of people who want to make a difference
• It's a great way to support older people making a real difference to their lives
• You'll be giving something back to your community
• You get to be part of Age UK Buckinghamshire's volunteer team
• We will reimburse reasonable, approved out of pocket expenses
• Volunteers tell us they find Volunteering really rewarding and get lots out of it themselves
• You will be fully supported by our Team and wider Age UK Buckinghamshire support.

What is expected of me?

We tell you about each client and ask if you’d like to take it up. You would then arrange and complete the call or visit when convenient. The work you do is conducted in line with guidance we provide and you must comply with necessary procedures including Data Protection/Confidentiality and Personal Safety.

After the visit/contact you will complete and submit a contact form. Volunteers complete relevant training, provide references and complete a DBS check.

Key skills and requirements

• Good listener, clear communicator and able to maintain confidentiality. A good conversationalist!
• Ability to lead the conversation, provide feedback to the team and summarise the conversation.
• Non-judgmental. Able to respect others’ differences and choices
• Patient, flexible and reliable
• Able to work independently with guidance and support
• Ability to travel around the area to visit people
• A regular commitment to give 1-2 hours a week would be appreciated but the role is flexible, you can work from home, do visits, only make calls, whatever works for you.
• An interest in helping older people live the lives they want

Befriending Volunteer 

Would you like to offer companionship to someone who feels lonely, help them rebuild confidence, reconnect with their community, or simply brighten their week with a friendly chat? 

What do Befriending Volunteers do?

Our volunteers support older people (50+) who may be feeling lonely, isolated, or cut off from their usual activities. Volunteers help clients rebuild confidence, reconnect socially, and enjoy meaningful conversation. 

Support can take different forms depending on the client’s needs: 

Short-term Face-to-Face Support (up to 6 months) 

• Visiting someone regularly to help them work towards personal goals 

• Encouraging confidence to get out and about again 

• Supporting them to re-engage with interests, community groups, or social activities 

Long-term Befriending (for those most isolated) 

• Providing stable, ongoing social support 

• Regular facetoface or telephone companionship 

• Building a consistent and trusting relationship 

National Telephone Befriending 

• Offering friendly conversation over the phone 

• Providing regular social contact for people unable to meet in person 

This is a rewarding and varied volunteer role where every person you meet will be different — and you’ll have the chance to make a meaningful difference to their wellbeing. 

What you will get out of it

• A chance to support older people and make a real positive impact 

• A meaningful role where relationships grow and confidence returns 

• Opportunities to meet new people and experience new things 

• Being part of Age UK Buckinghamshire’s volunteer team 

• Full training, ongoing support, and guidance from your Outreach Support Worker 

Our volunteers tell us they find befriending incredibly fulfilling and often get as much from the relationship as the client does 

What is expected of me?

• We will talk you through each potential match before you decide to take it on 

• Most volunteers commit around 1–2 hours a week 

• Shortterm matches typically last up to 6 months; longterm befriending is ongoing 

• Time may be spent visiting someone at home, accompanying them to a local activity, or chatting with them by phone 

• Volunteers complete a short online training program and provide references 

• A DBS check will be required (provided at no cost) 

Who can volunteer?

If you are warm, friendly, patient, and enjoy chatting with people, this could be the role for you. You do not need any formal qualifications, just a desire to support someone who is feeling vulnerable or alone. 

About Us
Age UK Buckinghamshire is a local, independent charity and part of the wider Age UK Network. We support older people across the county through vital services including befriending, information and advice, dementia support, practical help at home, and welfare benefits support - helping people stay independent, connected, and supported.

Our work is more important now than ever. Many older people face growing challenges such as the rising cost of living, social isolation, and difficulty accessing support.

As demand for our services continues to increase, community support is essential to help us reach more people in need. By raising awareness of what we do, we can ensure that older people know where to turn for help, and inspire others to support our work through volunteering, fundraising, and partnership.

About the Role
We are looking for enthusiastic and confident Charity Ambassadors who are passionate about giving back to their community and making a difference, to help raise awareness of our work. This is a rewarding and flexible role, ideal for individuals who enjoy meeting new people and speaking in public.

As a Charity Ambassador, you will represent Age UK Buckinghamshire at a range of events and settings such as community groups, Rotary Clubs, Church groups, and other local events and venues. You will help raise awareness of the support available to older people, providing information about our services and how people can access advice, practical help, and companionship when they need it.

You will also share the impact of our work by bringing it to life through real examples and stories, helping others understand the real difference this support makes to older people’s lives. By demonstrating this impact, you will highlight why support through fundraising, volunteering, and partnership opportunities is so important in helping us reach more people in need.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging presentations and talks about Age UK Buckinghamshire’s work
• Represent the charity at community events, meetings, and local groups
• Help raise awareness of services available to older people
• Promoting planned fundraising initiatives and activities.
• Thank and recognise supporters and fundraisers within the community
• Assist in reviewing, adapting, and improving presentation materials (e.g. PowerPoint slides)
• Act as a positive and professional ambassador for the organisation

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community
• Experience in public speaking and community engagement
• The chance to work alongside our Community Engagement, Fundraising, and Services teams
• Full training, including opportunities to shadow our services, and ongoing support from our team
• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses
• A chance to be part of a friendly and supportive charity network

Time commitment

This is a flexible role to suit your availability. Charity Ambassadors will be contacted as appropriate and offered the opportunity to attend events to which we are invited. Talks and events may be delivered alongside another volunteer or staff member, or occasionally independently.

Training & Support

All Charity Ambassadors will receive training, resources, and guidance to help them feel confident in delivering presentations and representing the charity. This will include opportunities to shadow our services and gain a deeper understanding of the support we provide to older people.