Volunteer roles in Leeds

Bring the Community Together — Become Our Events Officer!

Volunteer Role | Lyonic Scots Society

Do you love organising gatherings, planning fun activities, and creating moments people remember?

Want to help a growing cultural society come alive through events — no Scottish heritage required?

Then we’d be thrilled to welcome you as our Events Officer.

The Lyonic Scots Society is looking for an enthusiastic, organised, and creative volunteer to help us plan and deliver events that celebrate our community and support the Clan Chief in promoting the Lyonic Scots.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Planning and coordinating Society events, both online and in person.

• Working with the committee to bring ideas to life.

• Helping organise venues, schedules, and event logistics.

• Promoting events alongside our Communications Officer.

• Creating welcoming, engaging experiences for members and supporters.

What We’re Looking For

• Someone organised, proactive, and full of ideas.

• Comfortable planning activities and coordinating details.

• A friendly communicator who enjoys working with others.

• Keen to help build a vibrant, active community.

• No need to be Scottish — just bring your enthusiasm and event‑planning flair.

What You’ll Get

• A fun, creative role in a warm and welcoming volunteer society.

• Experience in event planning and community engagement.

• The chance to shape the social side of the Lyonic Scots Society.

• A supportive committee who’ll value your energy and ideas.

• The satisfaction of bringing people together and helping our community thrive.

If you’re ready to help us create memorable events and strengthen the Lyonic Scots community, we’d love to hear from you.

Reach out and join us — your ideas could make all the difference.

Welcome New Faces — Become Our Membership Officer!

Volunteer Role | Lyonic Scots Society

Do you enjoy meeting new people, keeping things organised, and helping others feel part of something special?

Want to support a growing cultural society — no Scottish heritage required?

Then we’d love to have you as our Membership Officer.

The Lyonic Scots Society is looking for a friendly, organised, and community‑minded volunteer to help us grow our membership and ensure every member feels valued and connected as we support the Clan Chief in promoting the Lyonic Scots.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing our membership list and keeping records up to date.

• Welcoming new members and helping them get involved.

• Supporting membership renewals and answering enquiries.

• Working with the committee to grow and engage our community.

• Helping ensure members feel informed, included, and appreciated.

What We’re Looking For

• Someone organised, approachable, and good with people.

• Comfortable handling basic admin and communication tasks.

• A friendly communicator who enjoys helping others.

• Keen to support the growth of a cultural community.

• No need to be Scottish — just bring your enthusiasm and people skills.

What You’ll Get

• A warm, welcoming volunteer community.

• Experience in membership management and community engagement.

• The chance to help shape the future of the Lyonic Scots Society.

• A supportive committee who’ll value your contribution.

• The satisfaction of helping our membership grow and thrive.

If you’re ready to help welcome new members and strengthen our community, we’d be delighted to hear from you.

Reach out and join us — your support could make all the difference.

Join the Pride — Become a Committee Member!

Volunteer Role | Lyonic Scots Society

Do you enjoy being part of a friendly team, sharing ideas, and helping shape something meaningful?

Want to support a growing cultural society — no Scottish heritage required?

Then we’d love to welcome you as a Committee Member of the Lyonic Scots Society.

We’re building a vibrant, supportive community dedicated to promoting the Lyonic Scots and assisting the Clan Chief in sharing this unique heritage. As a Committee Member, you’ll play a key role in helping us grow, organise, and thrive.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Attending committee meetings and contributing your ideas.

• Supporting projects, events, and Society activities.

• Helping make decisions that guide our future direction.

• Working with the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary as part of a collaborative team.

• Championing the Lyonic Scots vision in your own way.

What We’re Looking For

• Friendly, enthusiastic people who enjoy teamwork.

• Anyone willing to share ideas, offer support, and get involved.

• Individuals who can commit a little time to meetings and tasks.

• No need to be Scottish — just bring your passion and positivity.

What You’ll Get

• A warm, welcoming volunteer community.

• The chance to help shape a growing cultural society.

• Experience in committee work and community development.

• A supportive team who’ll value your voice and contributions.

• The satisfaction of helping the Lyonic Scots Society flourish.

If you’re ready to get involved, share your ideas, and help make the Lyonic Scots Society a success, we’d be delighted to hear from you.

Reach out and join us — your voice could make all the difference.

Keep Us Organised and Moving Forward — Become Our Committee Secretary!

Volunteer Role | Lyonic Scots Society

Are you the kind of person who loves keeping things tidy, organised, and running like clockwork?

Do you enjoy being the calm, reliable centre of a busy team?

Then the Lyonic Scots Society would be delighted to have you as our Committee Secretary.

You don’t need to be Scottish or have Scottish heritage — just bring your organisational skills, your enthusiasm, and your willingness to help our committee support the Clan Chief in promoting the Lyonic Scots.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Preparing agendas and taking clear, accurate minutes at committee meetings.

• Keeping our records, documents, and communications organised.

• Helping ensure the committee stays on track with actions and deadlines.

• Supporting the Chair‑person and Vice Chair with smooth administration.

• Acting as a key point of contact for internal communication.

What We’re Looking For

• Someone organised, reliable, and good at keeping details straight.

• Comfortable writing minutes and managing basic admin tasks.

• A friendly communicator who enjoys supporting a team.

• Able to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

• No Scottish roots needed — just the right skills and a positive attitude.

What You’ll Get

• A vital role at the heart of a warm, welcoming volunteer society.

• Experience in charity administration and committee support.

• The chance to help shape the future of the Lyonic Scots.

• A supportive team who’ll appreciate your clarity and consistency.

• The satisfaction of helping a cultural community thrive.

If you’re ready to take on a key organisational role and help keep the Lyonic Scots Society running smoothly, we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch — your organisational skills could make all the difference.

THE LYONIC SCOTS CALL FOR A VOLUNTEER MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS LEAD 

Shape the Voice of a Modern Clan. Inspire a Movement. Lead the Story of a People.

Across Scotland and around the world, the Lyonic Scots are rising — a living Clan Community built on heritage, unity, creativity, and pride. As our Clan grows, so does our need for a powerful voice. A storyteller. A strategist. A leader.

Today, we call for a UK‑based Volunteer Marketing & Communications Lead — someone ready to guide our message, amplify our presence, and help bring the spirit of the Lyonic Scots to the world.

This is more than a role. It is a creative mission, a leadership opportunity, and a chance to shape the identity of a modern Scottish Clan.

YOUR MISSION

As our Marketing & Communications Lead, you will become the architect of the Clan’s public voice — crafting the stories, campaigns, and messages that inspire people to join, engage, and belong.

You will:

• Develop and lead our marketing and communications strategy

• Shape the Clan’s tone, voice, and storytelling across all platforms

• Oversee social media content, engagement, and community growth

• Create compelling campaigns that attract new members and volunteers

• Support recruitment drives, cultural initiatives, and Clan events

• Collaborate with our Graphic Designer and Council to build a unified brand

• Ensure consistent, inspiring messaging across all channels

Your leadership will help the Lyonic Scots be seen, heard, and remembered.

WHY YOU MUST BE UK‑BASED

For coordination, governance, and alignment with UK community‑group standards, this role requires someone living in the United Kingdom. The work is fully remote — but your location ensures smooth collaboration and compliance.

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

The Lyonic Scots are more than a community — we are a movement built on:

• Heritage and identity

• Creativity and culture

• Belonging and kinship

• A shared mission to build something meaningful

Your words, campaigns, and ideas will shape how the world sees us. You will help build a brand that inspires pride, unity, and connection.

This is your chance to lead with creativity. To tell a story that matters. To help build a legacy that lasts.

REMOTE • FLEXIBLE • IMPACTFUL

This role is fully remote and designed to fit around your life. Whether you contribute weekly or monthly, your impact will echo across the entire Clan.

STEP FORWARD. FIND YOUR VOICE. LEAD OUR STORY.

• If you believe in heritage…
• If you love storytelling…
• If you want to help shape the identity of a modern Scottish Clan…

We welcome you.

Join the Lyonic Scots. Lead our message. Inspire our future.

Your voice. Our Clan. One legacy.

THE LYONIC SCOTS CALL FOR A VOLUNTEER TREASURER

Guard the Clan’s Future. Steward Our Legacy. Lead With Honour.

Across Scotland and far beyond its shores, the Lyonic Scots are rising — a modern Clan Community built on heritage, unity, courage, and belonging. As our movement grows, so too does our responsibility to safeguard its future.

Today, we call for a UK‑based Volunteer Treasurer — a guardian of integrity, a steward of trust, and a leader who will help shape the financial foundations of our Clan.

This is not just a role. It is a duty, a calling, and a chance to leave a mark on a living Scottish legacy.

YOUR MISSION

As Treasurer, you will oversee the financial heartbeat of the Lyonic Scots. Your work ensures our projects thrive, our community grows, and our heritage endures.

You will:

• Maintain clear, accurate financial records

• Manage membership fees, donations, and Clan funds

• Prepare simple financial reports for the Council

• Support budgeting for cultural projects and events

• Ensure compliance with UK community‑group and charity‑style standards

• Advise the Council on sustainability and long‑term planning

Your leadership will help guide the Clan with transparency, wisdom, and honour.

WHY YOU MUST BE UK‑BASED

For banking, compliance, and legal governance, this role requires someone living in the United Kingdom. You can volunteer remotely — but your location ensures our financial operations remain lawful, secure, and aligned with UK standards.

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

The Lyonic Scots are more than a community — we are a cultural movement built on:

• Heritage and identity

• Community and kinship

• Honour, stewardship, and service

• A shared belief in building something meaningful

As Treasurer, you become a cornerstone of our future. Your work empowers every project, every event, every initiative — and every member who joins our Clan.

This is leadership with purpose. This is service that echoes through generations.

REMOTE • FLEXIBLE • IMPACTFUL

This role is fully remote and designed to fit around your life. Whether you contribute a few hours a month or more, your impact will be felt across the entire Clan.

• STEP FORWARD.
• SERVE WITH HONOUR.
• JOIN THE PRIDE.

1. If you believe in heritage…
2. If you value integrity…
3. If you want to help build a modern Scottish Clan with purpose and pride…

We welcome you.

Take your place among the Lyonic Scots. Stand with us. Lead with us. Shape the future with us.

Your integrity. Our Clan. One legacy.

Preserve Our Story — Become Our Clan Historian / Archivist!

Volunteer Role | Lyonic Scots Society

Do you love history, heritage, and uncovering the stories that make a community unique?

Are you someone who enjoys organising information, digging into the past, and helping keep traditions alive?

Then we’d be honoured to welcome you as our Clan Historian / Archivist.

You don’t need to be Scottish or have Scottish ancestry — just a passion for history, good organisation, and a desire to help the Lyonic Scots Society support the Clan Chief in preserving and promoting our heritage.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Researching and recording the history of the Lyonic Scots.

• Collecting, organising, and preserving documents, stories, and historical materials.

• Helping build and maintain our Society archives.

• Supporting the committee with historical context for projects and events.

• Sharing historical insights with members and the wider community.

• Helping ensure our heritage is protected for future generations.

What We’re Looking For

• Someone curious, organised, and passionate about history.

• Comfortable researching, documenting, and storing information.

• A clear communicator who enjoys sharing knowledge.

• Keen to help preserve and promote cultural heritage.

• No Scottish roots required — just bring your interest and dedication.

What You’ll Get

• A meaningful role at the heart of our cultural identity.

• Experience in historical research and archival work.

• The chance to help shape how the Lyonic Scots story is told.

• A supportive committee who’ll value your expertise.

• The satisfaction of preserving a legacy for future generations.

If you’re ready to help protect our past and support the future of the Lyonic Scots Society, we’d love to hear from you.

Reach out and join us — your passion for history could make all the difference.

Role- Head of Governance and Legal (Voluntary)

Reporting- CEO/CPO

Location- Remote, UK-based

Commitment: We estimate this role requires 4–6 hours per week, with flexibility to manage your own time. All meetings are remote and scheduled in advance.

Compensation: Voluntary role (non-paid)

About YouthAdvantage UK

YouthAdvantage UK is a volunteer-led, research-based organisation championing the rights and wellbeing of young people aged 11 to 25 across the UK. We influence national policy, deliver grassroots projects, and elevate youth voice in key debates; from education to mental health, climate action to justice reform.

We are seeking a passionate, committed Head of Governance & Legal to join our senior leadership team and help shape the strategic foundations that support our work.

About the role

As Head of Governance & Legal, you will lead a small team focused on risk, compliance, and governance excellence. You will ensure our work is rooted in sound legal and ethical frameworks and will support our growth with robust, transparent policies and guidance. You’ll also provide strategic support to our Board of Trustees and act as the senior point of contact for all legal matters.

This is an ideal opportunity for a governance, legal, or compliance professional looking to gain sector leadership experience while supporting a values-driven youth organisation.

 What you’ll gain

• Strategic leadership experience in a national charity
• A portfolio of governance and legal work with social impact
• Board-level exposure and public recognition of your contribution
• A flexible and supportive remote-first culture
• Testimonials, references, and public acknowledgment upon completion
• A chance to help shape youth policy at a systemic level

What you’ll do

• Lead and support the Governance & Legal Support Manager and team
• Design, update, and implement governance frameworks and organisational policies
• Maintain regulatory compliance across charity law, safeguarding, and data protection
• Liaise with the Board of Trustees - prepare agendas, minutes, and reports
• Oversee legal documentation and contracts
• Maintain and review the organisation’s risk register
• Build relationships with regulators and external legal advisors
• Embed a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical practice

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from a broad range of professional backgrounds. You might be:

• An experienced lawyer, company secretary, or governance lead
• A compliance or legal professional seeking strategic exposure
• A postgraduate in law or non-profit management looking for leadership experience
• Returning to work and keen to rebuild your senior-level skillset
• Recently semi-retired and passionate about giving back

 Essential:

• Experience in governance, legal, or compliance leadership (minimum 12 months)
• Familiarity with UK charity law and regulatory frameworks
• Ability to lead and support others with tact and clarity
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Commitment to equity, youth empowerment, and ethical standards

To Apply

If you’re interested, just send us your CV and a few lines about why the role appeals to you — this can be a short paragraph in your email or a separate note. If you'd prefer an informal chat before applying, we’d love to hear from you. Just drop us a message and we’ll arrange a time.

Volunteer Acknowledgement

Although this is a volunteer role, we’re committed to recognising your contribution. Upon successful completion of your commitment, you can request:

• A LinkedIn testimonial or written reference
• A public thank-you post on our social media
• Permission to list your role with YouthAdvantage UK on your CV and LinkedIn

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

*Please note, to be eligible for this role you must be residing in the South West of England. 

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

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

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

Requirements

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

The skills you need

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

What's in it for you

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

Disclaimer

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

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

*Please note, to be eligible for this role you must be residing in the Scotland.

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

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

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

Requirements

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

The skills you need

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

What's in it for you

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

Disclaimer

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

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.

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.