Volunteer roles for the Housing and Homelessness sector in North east

�� Build technology that actually changes lives.

We’re looking for a Senior Developer to join the team behind Unify Giving.

Unify Giving is building technology that helps people support verified individuals experiencing homelessness, domestic abuse, poverty and other forms of vulnerability through direct, transparent digital giving.

We’re a small team with a big vision and we’re looking for someone who wants to use their skills to help build products with genuine social impact.

What you’ll be doing

• Working alongside our product and leadership team
• Helping shape technical architecture and future product direction
• Supporting feature development across web and mobile platforms
• Contributing ideas, not just code
• Helping us build scalable technology that can reach thousands of people

We’re looking for someone who

• Has strong experience as a software engineer or senior developer
• Enjoys solving complex problems
• Is comfortable working in a startup environment
• Believes technology can be a force for good
• Can commit a few hours per week

What you’ll get

• Real ownership and influence over the product
• Experience working on meaningful social impact projects
• A chance to build alongside founders, designers and volunteers from around the world
• References and recognition for your contribution
• The opportunity to help shape something from an early stage

If you’ve ever wanted your technical skills to contribute to something bigger than another dashboard or marketing platform, we’d love to hear from you.

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

• Solicitor must hold - Their own Professional Indemnity Insurance and/or Public Liability Insurance cover

Guardian Light Foundation

Location: Remote
Commitment: Flexible – approx. 20 hours per month
Role Type: Volunteer
Reports to: Board of directors

�� About Guardian Light Foundation

Guardian Light Foundation exists to protect, support, and empower children, teenagers, and single-parent families facing homelessness, abuse, and extreme hardship.

Many of the individuals we serve are navigating complex legal situations while already dealing with trauma, fear, and instability. Access to safe, ethical, and compassionate legal advice can be life-changing — and that’s where you come in.

⚖️ About the Role

We are seeking a Volunteer Solicitor with experience in family law, safeguarding, or domestic abuse-related legal matters to provide initial legal guidance, signposting, and referrals to vulnerable individuals supported by Guardian Light Foundation.

This role is advisory and supportive, not high-volume casework. Your expertise will help people understand their rights, options, and next steps at critical moments in their lives.

�� Focus Areas

�� Children’s Arrangements

• Custody and contact arrangements

• Child safeguarding concerns

• Schooling and parental responsibility guidance

• Early advice on family court processes

��️ Domestic Violence Injunctions

• Non-molestation orders

• Occupation orders

• Restraining orders

• Emergency protection guidance and referrals

��‍�� Single-Parent Legal Support

• Family court guidance

• Child maintenance advice

• Housing rights and homelessness-related legal signposting

• Referrals to specialist legal services where appropriate

�� What You’ll Be Doing

• Providing initial legal advice and guidance (not ongoing representation)

• Supporting safeguarding decisions where legal insight is required

• Advising on urgent legal options in high-risk situations

• Signposting individuals to appropriate external legal services

• Working closely with GLF’s safeguarding and support teams

• Maintaining clear professional boundaries and ethical practice

��️ Safeguarding & Compliance

Because this role supports vulnerable individuals:

• An Enhanced Volunteer DBS Check is required

• DBS checks are conducted via our trusted partner Serve (Rushden)

• All work must align with GLF’s safeguarding policies

• Confidentiality and GDPR compliance are essential

�� Skills & Experience Required

Essential:

• Qualified UK Solicitor (or equivalent legal professional)

• Experience in family law, domestic abuse, or child safeguarding

• Strong understanding of trauma-informed practice

• Ability to explain legal concepts clearly and compassionately

• Commitment to ethical and client-centred practice

• Solicitor must hold - Their own Professional Indemnity Insurance and/or Public Liability Insurance cover

Desirable:

• Experience working with charities or vulnerable populations

• Knowledge of housing or homelessness law

• Familiarity with referral pathways and support services

�� Who We’re Looking For

You are someone who:

• Has a genuine passion for protecting children and families

• Believes access to justice should never depend on income

• Can balance professionalism with empathy

• Understands the emotional impact of legal uncertainty

• Wants to use their expertise to create real social impact

⏰ Time Commitment

• Approx. 20 hours per month

• Flexible scheduling

• Fully remote

�� What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to make a direct, meaningful impact

• Professional fulfilment through purpose-led legal work

• Recognition and appreciation within a growing social enterprise

• Networking with professionals across counselling, housing, and social care

• Opportunity to join an Advisory Board or Board of Directors as the organisation grows

E-Commerce Volunteer 

Do you want to make a difference to someone experiencing the housing emergency one listing at a time? 

Information about the role 

As an E-commerce volunteer, you’ll help bring our shop online by selecting, preparing and listing items for sale on our digital platform.You’ll play a key role in turning donated goods into vital funds while keeping our online shop running smoothly. 

Location: 244 – 246 High Street West, Sunderland

Suggested contribution: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied. 

Availability: Monday – Saturday 9am - 5pm and Sunday 10am – 4pm 

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now or read on more for details.

Main activities may include: 

• Select, prepare and list donated items for sale on our online platform 

• Accurately photograph and describe products 

• Ensure items are well presented and of high quality 

• Manage listings, updating or removing as necessary 

• Package and dispatch sold items 

This role fights the housing emergency by showcasing great products to the right buyers, turning more of our donations into vital funds. 

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. 

Your skills and experience  

We’d love our E-commerce Volunteer to be comfortable using a computer and enjoy online shopping or selling. An eye for detail and a bit of creativity with photos helps too, but the most important thing is a willingness to learn and a passion for helping our shop thrive online. 

Supporting you 

• You will be provided with an induction into your role, access to relevant learning and a copy of our volunteer handbook. 

• The role, including learning and communications, are flexible, so can be tailored so they best suit your needs and preferences.

• You will be able to claim reasonable volunteering expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer policy. Where financial circumstances would be a barrier to volunteering, we may be able to offer these funds in advance.

• You will be able to access our volunteer support package, including our colleague assistance programme and Shelter’s network of mental health first aiders. 

Next steps 

If you need to apply by an alternative method, please contact us to see what options are available. 

We will get back to you about your application. Shortlisted applicants will have a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further. 

End of document

We are looking for our next Chair of Trustees – someone who will work closely with our Executive Team and Board to guide the organisation through what is both a challenging and genuinely exciting time. The funding environment is tough. The political context is difficult. And yet the need for what we do has never been greater.

This is an unpaid voluntary role. Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Volunteer Expenses Policy.

The successful candidate will lead a vibrant, well-established, national charity as it navigates the next chapter of its story.

Main tasks

• Developing and setting our future strategy, alongside the Executive Team and other Trustees
• Helping shape and deliver our future, identifying opportunities in an evolving landscape
• Leading the Board of Trustees, including regular 1:1s and providing space for reflection
• Acting as a 'critical friend' to our Executive Team, as well as formal line management to the CEO (and COO in their absence)
• Acting as an ambassador for the charity – raising awareness of what we do and engaging potential supporters and other key stakeholders
• Responsibility, along with the other trustees, for the governance of the charity
• Contributing to the ongoing strategy of the charity, in line with our charitable objectives
• Participating in board meetings and sub-committees in an inclusive and thoughtful way

Please download our Chair Application Pack for more information.

Help4Homeless is looking for an Event Organisation Manager to lead creative fundraising events that directly support people experiencing homelessness in Peterborough. This is a flexible, remote volunteer role where your ideas can turn into real-world impact.

�� About Help4Homeless

Help4Homeless is a youth-led initiative founded in Peterborough with a simple mission: provide practical support to people sleeping rough through £10 wellbeing packs.

Each pack includes essentials like socks, hygiene products, snacks, and warmth items, and 100% of donations go directly into these packs. No admin fees, no overheads, just real help for real people.

�� The Role

As Event Organisation Manager, you’ll take the lead in planning and coordinating fundraising events and campaigns that grow awareness and raise vital funds.

�� Key Responsibilities

• Plan and organise fundraising events (online and community-based)
• Develop creative campaign ideas (e.g. challenges, themed events)
• Coordinate timelines and ensure events run smoothly
• Work with the wider team to promote events and maximise reach
• Track outcomes and suggest improvements for future events

�� Who We’re Looking For

• Organised and proactive
• Interested in event planning, fundraising, or community work
• Creative thinker with strong ideas
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Passionate about making a difference

No formal experience required, just commitment and initiative.

�� Why Join?

• Make a direct impact in your local community
• Gain hands-on experience in event management and leadership
• Be part of a fast-growing, youth-led project
• Flexible, remote volunteering
• Build skills for future careers

�� Our Current Campaign

We’re currently running “31 Days, 31 Packs” (May 2026), aiming to fund one wellbeing pack per day. Your role will help shape and deliver campaigns like this.

Communications Team Lead (Volunteer)

We are seeking a creative and experienced Communications Team Lead to play a vital role in raising awareness of the mission of Bounds Green Food Bank and drive donations. They will be responsible for leading a team of volunteers and assisting the team in coming up with creative ways to spread the word of the food bank.
 

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 4,600 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items to build a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people who find themselves in a crisis situation where they need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

The role: 

• Create and lead on communication campaigns and initiatives to raise funds, recruit volunteers and promote our impact

• Manage a fantastic Communications Team of remote volunteers with specific roles (social media, website management, business partnership, graphics and community liaison), providing guidance and managing workload

• Work closely with the Fundraising Lead to create effective fundraising campaigns through newsletters, social media, flyers, events and our website.

• Liaise with the other team leads via a group chat and occasional team meetings, staying up to date with changes across the charity and providing input from the Comms Team

Person specification: 

• Previous experience in marketing, communications, or related fields preferred.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage, motivate and inspire a team of volunteers.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits:

• Gain valuable experience in marketing and non-profit leadership.

• Make a meaningful impact on the fight against hunger in the community.

• Develop professional skills and expand your network.

• Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!

Please note this is an unpaid position - the food bank is completely run by volunteers

Volunteer Content Creator
Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) & Guardian Light Enterprises Ltd (GLE)

Role Type: Volunteer
Location: Remote / Flexible
Reports to: Board Of Director - Marketing & Communications Lead

About Us

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a mission-driven charity supporting vulnerable and homeless children who have experienced abuse and hardship. Guardian Light Enterprises Ltd (GLE) supports this mission through sustainable initiatives and services.

Role Purpose

We are seeking a creative and committed Volunteer Content Creator to help raise awareness, engage our audience, and grow our online presence across both GLF and GLE platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Create engaging content for social media (posts, captions, short videos, graphics)

• Support content planning in line with campaigns and key messages

• Share impactful stories (while maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding standards)

• Assist in growing audience engagement across platforms (e.g. Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn)

• Maintain a consistent tone and brand voice

• Work collaboratively with the marketing team

Skills & Experience

• Strong creativity and attention to detail

• Basic experience with content creation tools (e.g. Canva, CapCut, or similar)

• Good written communication skills

• Understanding of social media platforms and trends

• Passion for making a positive impact

Safeguarding & Compliance

• Must adhere to safeguarding and confidentiality policies

• An Enhanced DBS check may be required

What You’ll Gain

• Valuable experience in marketing and content creation

• Opportunity to build a professional portfolio

• Be part of a meaningful cause making real impact

• Flexible, remote volunteering

How to Apply

Please submit a short introduction and any examples of your work (if available).

Join us in giving a voice to those who need it most.

�� Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits �� Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Treasurer (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Responsibilities:

• Oversee all financial matters including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.

• Ensure compliance with statutory financial regulations and charity law.

• Work closely with auditors and the Finance Committee.

• Present financial reports at each board meeting.

• Support fundraising and resource management strategy.

Requirements:

• Background in finance, accounting, or business administration.

• Knowledge of charity finance and UK financial reporting standards.

• Integrity and attention to detail.

Benefits:

• Direct influence over financial sustainability and impact measurement.

• Recognition in philanthropic financial management networks.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

�� Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits �� Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Vice-Chairperson (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Responsibilities:

• Support the Chairperson and act in their absence.

• Ensure all board decisions are actioned efficiently.

• Oversee special committees and task forces.

• Assist with performance evaluations of executive staff.

• Provide leadership continuity during transitions.

Requirements:

• Strong leadership and organisational skills.

• Prior experience in management or board governance.

Benefits:

• Executive leadership recognition.

• Key role in succession planning and governance strategy.

• Access to leadership networks and visibility opportunities.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

�� Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits �� Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Socially Connected Ambassador (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Purpose: To leverage personal and professional networks to expand GLF’s reach and influence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Represent GLF at social, political, and business networking events.

• Connect GLF with potential partners, donors, and sponsors.

• Support awareness campaigns through social media and public engagement.

• Advocate for youth and family issues in community forums.

Requirements/Skills:

• Strong public presence or social influence.

• Excellent networking and relationship-building skills.

• Passionate advocate for vulnerable children and families.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to be the public face of a growing national movement.

• Exclusive access to elite events, media appearances, and social recognition.

• Personal fulfillment from using influence to create tangible change.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

As part of the Government led Communities for Afghans programme, we are looking to recruit individuals or groups (UK BASED ONLY) to make up a team of 6 volunteers to support an Afghan family - you could be friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations are welcome.

We are currently focused on supporting families across Wales, West Midlands and Scotland but be keen to support elsewhere geographically where possible.  With this in mind, you may live in these areas, but we are also delighted to bring volunteers together remotely to support a family. 

You will be at the heart of this programme. It is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference!

The Communities for Afghans programme is a community-led Government initiative supporting families as they rebuild their lives in the UK. It is a Government-approved scheme that enables local people to welcome Afghan refugee families into their community. Volunteers will be supported by us to find housing for a family, provide practical and emotional support enabling them to settle into daily life and feel a genuine sense of belonging in the community.

How community sponsorship work

1. Form a Sponsor Group Create a team of six or more volunteers — friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations.
2. Training & Ongoing Support Our partners provide full training, so your group feels confident and well prepared. This simple, practical training is offered before you begin and continues throughout the sponsorship journey.
3. Identify Suitable Housing With our guidance, your group helps find long-term accommodation. We then match an Afghan family of the appropriate size and ensure the property is suitable and affordable. Government funding is available for rent deposits and related costs.
4. Welcome & Support the Family Volunteers help the family register with schools, healthcare, benefits, and local services, while introducing them to the community and supporting them as they adjust to life in the UK.
5. Be the Local Point of Contact You act as the family’s trusted guide, helping them navigate the area, understand local systems, and access opportunities that only residents truly know.
6. Commit for Three Years Sponsor groups support the family for three years, providing consistency as they grow in independence, confidence, and resilience.

Why Your Support Matters

Volunteering through Community Sponsorship is a powerful act of solidarity. You are not only helping one family — you are strengthening your entire community.

Your support helps families: 

• Rebuild their lives in safety and dignity
• Access education, healthcare, and employment
• Learn English and integrate into the community
• Become confident and independent

And your community benefits:

• Stronger local connections
• Celebrated diversity
• Practical meaningful humanitarian action

Help4Homeless is looking for experienced professionals to join our Governance Committee and help guide the strategic direction of our youth-led charity.

This is a genuinely low-commitment opportunity focused entirely on governance and strategic oversight. There are no operational duties, fundraising targets, or delivery responsibilities, just informed decision-making and supporting the long-term development of the organisation.

We value practical thinking, good judgement, and people who care about making a meaningful difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness.

What you’ll do

• Attend one short monthly governance meeting (online or occasionally in person)
• Contribute to strategic discussions and organisational planning
• Offer professional insight within your area of expertise
• Support good governance, accountability, and decision-making
• Review occasional documents or policies before meetings

We’re looking for

• Professionals with experience in business, finance, legal, operations, HR, safeguarding, governance, or leadership
• People who care about homelessness and social impact
• Strong judgement and collaborative thinking
• Previous charity or board experience is welcome but not essential
• Connections to Peterborough or the surrounding area are a bonus

Time commitment

• One monthly meeting (around 1 hour)
• Approximately 10 minutes of reading beforehand
• Optional annual strategy session (2 hours, lunch included)

Why join us

• Use your professional skills to support meaningful community impact
• Gain experience in charity governance and strategic leadership
• Help shape the future direction of a growing organisation
• Collaborate with passionate and community-minded professionals

Help Missing People provide vital support through digital channels – and make a difference from home. 

Every year, thousands of people across the UK experience the trauma and uncertainty of disappearance – whether they are missing themselves or have a missing loved one. Missing People’s award-winning helpline is there in those moments: providing vital support and working to ensure no one has to face this crisis alone. With new funding, we’re expanding our digital services — offering support not only through online chat and text, but also via WhatsApp. 

To make this possible, we’re recruiting Text and Chat Volunteers who can provide compassionate, safe, and reliable support remotely. By joining us, you’ll help more children, young people, and adults at risk – while volunteering in a flexible way that fits around your life. 

�� What you’ll be doing 

Using Missing People’s secure digital platforms (chat, text, and WhatsApp) you’ll provide sensitive, empathetic support to those who reach out. 

• Communicate compassionately with children, young people, and adults in crisis. 

• Explore and understand their situations, helping them access the right support. 

• Hear from young people running away, missing adults, and people who feel stuck and need guidance. 

• Support people who are worried about a missing person – such as family members. Provide them with advice to how to report someone missing and what to expect. 

• With the guidance of an experienced staff supervisor, help individuals reconnect safely with families and support networks. 

• Be a calm, reassuring presence – often at a critical moment in someone’s life. 

�� Qualities and skills we’re looking for 

No prior experience is required – we’ll provide full training. We are looking for someone who is: 

• A strong communicator (via text and chat) who is empathetic, patient, and non-judgemental. 

• Passionate about supporting vulnerable people. 

• Confident using computers, digital platforms such as Microsoft Office, email, and instant messaging (you’ll need your own PC or laptop and Wi-Fi capable of running our systems).

• Able to volunteer from a quiet, private space at home 

• Willing to complete an enhanced DBS check and provide references. 

We want our volunteers to reflect the diversity of the communities we support. We actively encourage applications from people whose identities or lived experiences are under‑represented in the charity sector — including people from global majority backgrounds, working‑class or low‑income backgrounds, men, LGBTQ+ people, Disabled people, and those with lived experience of missing or exploitation. 

�� What you’ll gain 

Volunteering with Missing People is a chance to grow, connect, and make a lasting impact. 

• Comprehensive training: A 6‑week online programme with 2 hours of self‑paced learning and a 2‑hour live session each week with fellow volunteers and helpline staff, followed by a shadowing and induction period. 

Training times: You will need to attend either six Wednesday evening sessions or six Saturday morning sessions. Please ensure you can commit to the relevant dates before applying, as completing these sessions is essential for progressing through the training. 

Wednesday sessions (6pm–8pm): 2nd Sep, 9th Sep, 16th Sep, 23rd Sep, 30th Sep, 7th Oct

Saturday sessions (10.30am–12:30pm): 5th Sep, 12th Sep, 19th Sep, 26th Sep, 2nd Oct, 10th Oct 

• Ongoing support: Guidance from our Helpline Coordinators and Supervisors, plus regular supervision and peer support. 

• Community: Become part of a passionate team of volunteers and staff, united by the goal of bringing missing people back to safety. 

• Recognition: After 6 months of service, you’ll be eligible for a formal reference to support your future opportunities. 

�� Location and availability 

• This role is fully home-based. 

• Shifts will be 7 days a week, afternoons (2.30pm-6pm) and evenings (6pm-10pm) – we ask for a commitment of 1 shift per week 

• There will also be a monthly group supervision call you will be expected to attend.

• Minimum commitment: 6 months+.