Volunteer roles in Purfleet

Do you enjoy spending time outdoors and helping things grow? We’re looking for a friendly and reliable Gardening Volunteer to support with maintaining and developing our garden spaces, helping create a calm, welcoming environment for people using our mental health recovery service.

What you will be doing

• Helping with general gardening tasks such as planting, weeding, watering, pruning and tidying
• Supporting service users who are interested in getting involved in gardening activities
• Helping maintain outdoor spaces so they are safe, welcoming and enjoyable
• Encouraging confidence, routine and teamwork through shared gardening tasks
• Working alongside staff and other volunteers

The skills you need

• An enjoyment of gardening and being outdoors
• A patient, supportive and encouraging approach
• Good communication skills and a friendly manner

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

Are you creative, imaginative and have a passion for drama? If so, we have an exciting role for you!

We are recruiting for a volunteer who will create a safe space for a group to enhance their communication skills, self-esteem, confidence whilst providing an element of escapism allowing individuals to take on another character through drama and acting.

What you will be doing

• Coordinate and set up drama classes
• Inspire and motivate individuals to participate in the sessions and take a role in planning/designing upcoming sessions
• Create a safe space for individuals to express themselves
• In group workshops, encourage members of the group to connect and relate to each other through acting and drama

The skills you need

• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Calm and patient approach
• Experience of facilitating drama classes desirable but not essential

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

We are looking for a creative and encouraging Songwriting Support Volunteer to help service users explore music as a form of expression, confidence building, and emotional wellbeing. You will support individuals or small groups to develop their own lyrics, melodies, and song ideas in a relaxed, person-centred environment.

What you will be doing

• Support service users to create original music, including lyrics, themes, melodies, and simple compositions.
• Encourage creativity and self-expression through structured or informal songwriting sessions
• Help service users explore different styles or genres based on their interests
• Provide positive, trauma informed encouragement to build confidence and celebrate progress.
• Feedback to staff after sessions regarding attendance, engagement, and any wellbeing concerns

The skills you need

• A passion for music, songwriting, or creative arts
• Ability to support and encourage people with varying levels of confidence and ability
• Friendly, patient, and person centred approach
• Good communication and listening skills
• Ability to create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

We are looking for a friendly and enthusiastic Chess Volunteer to facilitate chess sessions for adults accessing our service! This role offers a fantastic opportunity to share your passion for chess while helping to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where service users can build confidence, develop strategic thinking skills, and connect with others.

What you will be doing

• Leading informal chess sessions for individuals or small groups.
• Teaching basic chess skills and strategies to beginners.
• Encouraging participation and helping service users develop confidence through play.
• Promoting a positive, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere.
• Supporting social interaction and reducing isolation through a shared activity.
• Working alongside staff to ensure sessions are safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.

The skills you need

• Knowledge of chess and enthusiasm for sharing the game with others.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patience, reliability, and a supportive approach.
• Ability to engage people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.s

As part of Hestia's Head Office team, you'll play an important role in creating a warm and welcoming experience for everyone who gets in touch with us. Whether you're speaking with service users, visitors, colleagues, or callers, you'll be the first point of call, helping to connect them to the right information and services.

Alongside answering telephone enquiries, you'll support our reception area and help with a variety of everyday Head Office tasks that keep things running smoothly. You'll be a valued member of the wider Central Services team, working alongside our Receptionist/Administrator and receiving full training, guidance and ongoing support to help you feel confident and successful in your role!

What you will be doing

• Support the Receptionist / Administrator with reception cover as and when required.
• Answer incoming telephone calls in a friendly, calm, professional and respectful manner and record basic call information where required.
• Welcome visitors to Head Office and notify the appropriate member of staff of their arrival.
• Help ensure the reception area is secure, welcoming, clean and tidy.
• Assist with incoming post, deliveries and other routine reception tasks where required.
• Provide basic guidance to visitors and staff on meeting rooms and Head Office facilities.
• Report faults, defects, spillages, damage or other facilities issues promptly to the Receptionist / Administrator or appropriate member of staff.
• Help check meeting rooms and shared areas and support their readiness for staff, visitors and meetings.
• Assist with maintaining supplies of stationery, refreshments and other routine office consumables.
• Support other reasonable reception, facilities and administrative activities within the scope of the volunteer role.

The skills you need

• Ability to communicate clearly in spoken and written English and to record accurate messages.
• Calm, patient and professional telephone manner.
• Ability to identify the purpose of a call and follow call-routing guidance.
• Ability to record and pass on messages accurately and promptly.
• Basic IT skills and willingness to learn Hestia systems used for calls and messages.
• Good attention to detail and ability to maintain confidentiality and handle personal information appropriately at all times.
• Reliable, punctual and able to maintain professional boundaries and follow procedures.

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

CYP Volunteer Counsellor (Term‑Time Only)

Placement Days: Monday, Wednesday or Friday Setting: Secondary School, ages 11–18

Shirley High School is seeking trainee counsellors to join our established counselling service and support the wellbeing of young people within our vibrant, multicultural community. This is an excellent opportunity for trainees looking to gain clinical experience with children and adolescents in a supportive school environment.

Who We’re Looking For

• Trainee counsellors studying at Diploma level or above, already qualified to Level 3 (or equivalent).
• Training must be recognised by the BACP or equivalent professional body.
• Able to provide a current fit‑to‑practise certificate.
• The course includes personal therapy as part of training.
• Understanding of the BACP Ethical Framework and good practice for working with young people.
• Some experience with children or young people (not necessarily counselling).
• Commitment to inclusive, culturally sensitive practice.

Placement Requirements

• Maintain professional membership (BACP or equivalent).
• Hold professional indemnity insurance.
• Adhere to school safeguarding, confidentiality and child protection policies.
• Willing to complete an enhanced DBS.
• Attend fortnightly group clinical supervision (term‑time only), provided by the school (Mondays 16.30-18.00 online).

What the Role Involves

• Holding a caseload of 2–3 students per week, offering 45‑minute sessions.
• Providing short‑term or longer‑term counselling depending on need.
• Keeping accurate, confidential records.
• Working collaboratively with the lead counsellor, clinical supervisor and school safeguarding team.
• Identifying when students may need referral to specialist services.
• Treating all students with dignity, respect and sensitivity.

Commitment

• Minimum three counselling hours per week.
• Ideally a full academic year, or at least two terms.
• No work required during school holidays.

WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

If you're wanting to make a genuine difference, The Wildlife For All Trust is looking to expand its team. We’re a pioneering charity with a refreshingly different and deeper approach. Amongst other projects, we run a huge nature reserve in South Africa.  

We train our team members to understand how attitude has a huge impact on project success. No previous conservation experience is required. We provide all the necessary training to be part of our highly successful work, starting at our nature reserve in Sussex. 

You need to be willing to challenge yourself, learn to work hard, and want to be the best you can be.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity. 

Please see the Wildlife For All website for further details, including how to apply for an interview. 

We look forward to hearing from you.

British Registered Charity 1006174

MHFA England are seeking a Non-Executive Director to assist in agreeing and supporting MHFA England’s strategy, ensuring the delivery of our overall purpose and mission as a social enterprise.

In addition, the Non-Executive Director will Chair the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, supporting the development of a thriving membership community.

Reasonable travel expenses are covered.

Principal duties

1. Overseeing the delivery of MHFA England’s strategy and performance
2. Protecting the long-term sustainability of MHFA England
3. Safeguarding the reputation of MHFA England
4. Representing MHFA England at collaboration and network events, and contributing to the development of organisational relationships

Additional Chair of the Association of Mental Health First Aiders duties:

1. Providing strategic leadership to the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, ensuring it is an effective, representative and influential voice for MHFAiders
2. Championing the value of Mental Health First Aiders
3. Acting as a visible ambassador for the Association with members, employers, partners, policymakers and the media

Person specification

• Previous experience chairing Boards or Board committees
• Knowledge of workplace mental health policy and best practice across different sectors
• Be a current, accredited Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) with a strong personal commitment to improving mental health in the workplace
• Strong communication skills, including public speaking and presenting to a range of audiences
• Experience of growing and engaging membership communities
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring the Association reflects and represents the breadth of its membership
• An awareness of economic and political changes that may impact MHFA England
• Sound judgement around corporate governance, financial strategy risk, and opportunity
• A commitment to social enterprise and MHFA England’s values and culture
• Collaborative, solutions-focused and able to provide healthy and supportive challenge
• Curious and embraces innovation
• Desirable attributes include:
  • Media-trained, or able to demonstrate experience of broadcast, print or digital media engagement, with the confidence to act as a visible public champion for the Association and its members
  • Experience of chairing a membership organisation, professional association or volunteer-led network
  • An established professional network within HR, wellbeing, health and safety, occupational health or related sectors

At St John Ambulance we are looking to embed ourselves within our communities, delivering support which is tailored to the needs of those communities whilst providing a positive experience for our Volunteers.

We need leaders who are passionate about making a difference in their communities, who care about helping and developing others, who will lead and inspire a volunteer movement across a geographical area to deliver Community First Aid, Community Education and Community Fundraising as well as develop our offering for young people. Through leading a team of Volunteer leaders, you will drive excellence in delivery, develop an inclusive and diverse volunteering experience for new and current volunteers, and help navigate through change to build a bigger and better St John Ambulance.

As a member of our network leadership team, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride through supporting a team and our volunteers to deliver our essential services. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation.

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Volunteers would be expected to attend training for the role both online and in person, to attend regularly network weekly meetings to enable them to keep their skills up to date.

If you are successful you will need to undertake relevant training for the role, details of which will be discussed after you have been appointed.

• Closing date for these opportunities is: 15/09/2026
• Interviews will take place - Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Inductions and training or this role will take place between - Date, Times and Location to be advised

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Join the Team and Help Us Build the Future of The Swadhinata Trust 

The Swadhinata Trust is embarking on a journey of significant growth and transformation. Having recently refreshed our purpose, mission, and brand, we are now ready for our next big leap: transitioning from a grassroots volunteer organisation to a scalable charity with paid staff and expanded reach.

To reach our full potential, we need 'roll-up-your-sleeves' leaders who are eager to help us transform. This isn’t just about giving advice from the sidelines; it’s about being the engine of our transformation. Whether you are an expert in your field or looking to develop new skills, joining us as a collaborative partner offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on our journey.

How Can You Help 

We are looking for both professionals and enthusiasts eager to use their skills to help us transform. Whether you can offer 2 hours a week or 10, your expertise will be a vital part of reaching our big goals. You don’t need to be a veteran in your field; we value a 'roll-up-your-sleeves' attitude and a commitment to our mission just as much as a CV.

Operations Volunteer

The Goal: You are the engine room! You’ll help ensure our day-to-day systems, from IT to HR, are smooth and supportive.

We’d love help with:

• Daily Support: Helping with office admin, logistics, or coordinating meetings.

• Improving Systems: Assisting with our CRM (database) or helping the team get the most out of our tech.

• People Support: Helping with the "welcome" process for new staff or volunteers.

What you bring:

• A proactive, "can-do" attitude and a knack for multitasking.

• Great people skills and an organised approach to busy days.

• Tech-savviness (or a quick ability to learn new software).

Join the Team and Help Us Build the Future of The Swadhinata Trust 

The Swadhinata Trust is embarking on a journey of significant growth and transformation. Having recently refreshed our purpose, mission, and brand, we are now ready for our next big leap: transitioning from a grassroots volunteer organisation to a scalable charity with paid staff and expanded reach.

To reach our full potential, we need 'roll-up-your-sleeves' leaders who are eager to help us transform. This isn’t just about giving advice from the sidelines; it’s about being the engine of our transformation. Whether you are an expert in your field or looking to develop new skills, joining us as a collaborative partner offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on our journey.

How Can You Help 

We are looking for both professionals and enthusiasts eager to use their skills to help us transform. Whether you can offer 2 hours a week or 10, your expertise will be a vital part of reaching our big goals. You don’t need to be a veteran in your field; we value a 'roll-up-your-sleeves' attitude and a commitment to our mission just as much as a CV.

Fundraising and Partnerships Volunteer

The Goal: Help us build the relationships that fuel our work. You’ll be part of the team that finds the resources we need to grow.

We’d love help with:

• Researching Opportunities: Finding new grants, trusts, or local businesses who might want to partner with us.

• Drafting Bids: Helping us write compelling stories and applications for funding.

• Relationship Building: Supporting our communications with current donors to keep them updated on our success.

What you bring:

• A gift for storytelling and clear, persuasive writing.

• A friendly, professional manner and a love for networking.

• Persistence and a "hunter" mindset for finding new opportunities.

Join the Team and Help Us Build the Future of The Swadhinata Trust 

The Swadhinata Trust is embarking on a journey of significant growth and transformation. Having recently refreshed our purpose, mission, and brand, we are now ready for our next big leap: transitioning from a grassroots volunteer organisation to a scalable charity with paid staff and expanded reach.

To reach our full potential, we need 'roll-up-your-sleeves' leaders who are eager to help us transform. This isn’t just about giving advice from the sidelines; it’s about being the engine of our transformation. Whether you are an expert in your field or looking to develop new skills, joining us as a collaborative partner offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on our journey.

How Can You Help 

We are looking for both professionals and enthusiasts eager to use their skills to help us transform. Whether you can offer 2 hours a week or 10, your expertise will be a vital part of reaching our big goals. You don’t need to be a veteran in your field; we value a 'roll-up-your-sleeves' attitude and a commitment to our mission just as much as a CV.

Strategy and Programme Volunteer

The Goal:Help us turn our big dreams into reality. You will be part of the team that takes our ambitions and builds them into practical, life-changing projects.

We’d love help with:

• Planning the Journey: Helping us draft clear project plans and timelines.

• Tracking our Progress: Helping us collect information to see how well our projects are doing.

• Organising Teams: Assisting with the coordination of different tasks to keep everything running on time.

What you bring:

• An organised mind and a love for "getting things done."

• Experience in project management or a strong interest in how charities run.

• The ability to see the steps needed to reach a big goal.

Join the Team and Help Us Build the Future of The Swadhinata Trust 

The Swadhinata Trust is embarking on a journey of significant growth and transformation. Having recently refreshed our purpose, mission, and brand, we are now ready for our next big leap: transitioning from a grassroots volunteer organisation to a scalable charity with paid staff and expanded reach.

To reach our full potential, we need 'roll-up-your-sleeves' leaders who are eager to help us transform. This isn’t just about giving advice from the sidelines; it’s about being the engine of our transformation. Whether you are an expert in your field or looking to develop new skills, joining us as a collaborative partner offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on our journey.

How Can You Help 

We are looking for both professionals and enthusiasts eager to use their skills to help us transform. Whether you can offer 2 hours a week or 10, your expertise will be a vital part of reaching our big goals. You don’t need to be a veteran in your field; we value a 'roll-up-your-sleeves' attitude and a commitment to our mission just as much as a CV.

Marketing and Communications Volunteer

The Goal: Help us share our story with the world. You’ll be a creative voice for the Trust, helping our message reach and inspire action.

We’d love help with:

• Digital Content: Creating engaging posts for social media, newsletters, or our website.

• Designing Materials: Helping us make flyers, posters, or digital graphics that look great.

• Campaigning: Assisting with the launch of new campaigns to celebrate our impact.

What you bring:

• A creative eye and a knack for writing content that people want to read.

• Familiarity with social media or design tools (like Canva or Mailchimp).

• A passion for sharing the history and stories of the British Bengali community.

Role Overview

• Role Title: Volunteer Administrative and Archiving Assistant
• Organisation: Swadhinata Trust
• Location: Hybrid (Remote file management, online digital cataloguing, and in-person physical archiving in London)
• Commitment: 5–8 hours per week (Flexible)
• Compensation: Unpaid volunteer role

Key Responsibilities

• Digital & Physical Archiving:
  • Sort, organise, and streamline the shared drive (remote).
  • Carry out digital cataloguing of assets and records (online).
  • Manage and arrange physical archive materials (in-person).
• General Administration:
  • Monitor and reply to general admin emails.
  • Help coordinate and schedule team meetings.
  • Attend meetings, take clear notes, and write up minutes.

Person Specification

• Skills: Good eye for detail, organised, and reliable.
• Tech: Comfortable using shared drives, cloud storage, and video meeting tools.
• Interest: An appreciation for community heritage and the work of the Trust.