Volunteer roles for the Housing and Homelessness sector in Tameside

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 Gommunities 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 focussed 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 famiklies 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+. 

Our trustees and non-executive directors play a vital role in making sure that the group achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that there is a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.

Just as importantly, they support and challenge the CEO and executive team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs, to enable Thrive Social Housing and Emerging Futures CIC to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

The Board operates under the leadership and guidance of the chair and works in partnership with the chief executive officer and the executive team.

Board members are expected to always act in the best interests of the organisation and its stakeholders, and to use their background knowledge and skills to work with the chair and other board members to ensure that the Board, supported by its committees, carries out its responsibilities effectively and lead from the top in demonstrating our culture, values and behaviours.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

We are seeking an organised and enthusiastic Volunteer Recruitment Officer to utilise their excellent administrative and personal skills to advertise for, shortlist and onboard new volunteers.

Location: Remote (although ability to join occasional face-to-face training and meetings in Bounds Green desirable)

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 crisis where they need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

The role: 

• Liaise with different team leads to create enticing job descriptions for new volunteer roles

• Post and manage volunteer adverts on different recruitment websites like Indeed, Charity Job and Third Sector Jobs

• Review applications and shortlist suitable applicants, which will include speaking with them to answer questions and collaborating with the relevant team lead to organise interviews or opportunities to visit us to learn more

• Update the database with applicant contact points and recruitment progress

• Support with onboarding new volunteers, e.g. ensuring they have completed the relevant registration forms, provided any necessary documents,and are able to join our on-line communities. 

Person specification: 

• Excellent written and verbal communication in English

• Fantastic organisational skills

• Experience in administrative or recruitment roles desirable but not essential

• Willing to learn about what we do and why, to engage applicants to join us

Benefits:

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

• Upskill on a range of topics, e.g. customer service, interpersonal skills, organisational abilities and health and safety

• Gain a sense of community and meet the huge team of volunteers

Stories Volunteer

Do you love the challenge of telling a good story? Do you enjoy listening to other people and learning about their experiences? We’re looking for a great communicator with a flair for the written word to help us develop a bank of stories about our volunteers. 

We have more than 2000 volunteers who help us deliver life-changing services, raise money and campaign for change. Our volunteers have a wealth of experiences, backgrounds and stories to tell. We’re looking to capture these stories so we can recognise and demonstrate the impact our volunteers have and share the news of their amazing contribution.

Suggested Involvement: Flexible and ongoing. Approximately 1-2 stories per month.

Location: Remote/online

Supervised by: The Volunteering Team

Main Tasks

• Interviewing volunteers by phone or video call

• Writing up volunteer stories engagingly for various channels e.g. social media, Shelter website, intranet and our volunteer newsletter

• Ensuring permissions are collected and recorded

• Maintaining a positive relationship with the volunteer while interviewing them, writing up their story and following up with any subsequent questions

Skills and experience required

• Experience with writing and publishing pieces either as part of your work, hobby or previous volunteering. 

• Experience with researching and/or interviewing to gather information.

• Accurate spelling and grammar as well as a creative and engaging approach to telling stories.

• Confident use of IT and awareness of online platforms.

• Excellent communication and listening skills. 

• Willingness to follow Shelter’s policies including Volunteering, Data Protection, Confidentiality and Equality & Diversity.

Induction, learning & development

To enable you to take part in this opportunity, Shelter will:

• Provide you with a Volunteer Handbook and all policies and procedures

• Provide an induction into your role

• Provide access to learning on Data Protection, Safeguarding and Screen Wellness

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness

• Gain valuable experience and enhance your CV

• Meet new people and be part of a great team

• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills

Next steps

• Please complete an online application for this role by clicking ‘fill in an application’. 

• After you have applied, we will invite successful candidates to an informal interview to discuss the role further. At this point, we will also you to share a piece you have written of approximately 500-1,000 words.

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

This is a voluntary position that supports the work of our services and is not replacing the work of a paid member of staff. This role profile does not form part of any contract of employment. 

Volunteer Opportunity: Fundraiser

Are you enthusiastic, outgoing, and passionate about supporting a good cause? We’re looking for a Volunteer Fundraiser to help raise vital funds and support our ongoing work.

Role Overview:
As a Fundraiser, you will actively support fundraising activities by engaging with the community, promoting campaigns, and helping to generate donations. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys interacting with people and wants to make a direct impact.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support and participate in fundraising events and campaigns

• Engage with the public to raise awareness and encourage donations

• Promote fundraising initiatives through social media and word of mouth

• Assist with setting up and running events or collections

• Build positive relationships with supporters and donors

• Help meet fundraising targets and contribute ideas for new initiatives

What We’re Looking For:

• Confident and friendly communication skills

• Enthusiastic and motivated attitude

• Ability to engage and connect with a wide range of people

• Team player with a proactive approach

• Reliable and willing to take initiative

• Interest in fundraising, events, or community work

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in fundraising and community engagement

• Development of communication and interpersonal skills

• Opportunity to build confidence in public-facing roles

• Enhanced CV with practical experience

• A chance to make a real difference by supporting a meaningful cause

Time Commitment:
Flexible, depending on events and campaigns.

Location:
[Insert location or specify if remote/hybrid]

Join us in raising the funds needed to support and grow our impact.

Volunteer Opportunity: Social Media Lead

Are you a creative thinker with a passion for digital storytelling and leading online engagement? We’re looking for a Volunteer Social Media Lead to take ownership of our social media presence and guide our online strategy.

Role Overview:
As the Social Media Lead, you will oversee the planning, creation, and delivery of content across our social platforms. You’ll lead a small team (if applicable), shape our digital voice, and ensure our messaging effectively engages and grows our audience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a social media strategy aligned with organisational goals

• Oversee content planning, creation, and scheduling across platforms

• Lead and support Social Media Officers or volunteers

• Ensure consistency in tone, branding, and messaging

• Monitor engagement, analytics, and performance metrics

• Identify trends and opportunities to grow audience reach

• Coordinate promotion of events, campaigns, and key updates

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong understanding of social media platforms and trends

• Excellent written communication and creative skills

• Experience managing or leading social media accounts (preferred)

• Ability to analyse performance data and adjust strategies

• Leadership or team coordination skills

• Proactive, organised, and able to work independently

What You’ll Gain:

• Leadership experience in digital marketing and communications

• Opportunity to shape and grow an organisation’s online presence

• Development of strategic thinking and analytical skills

• Enhanced CV with hands-on leadership experience

• A chance to make a meaningful impact through digital engagement

Time Commitment:
Flexible, with regular weekly involvement and additional time during campaigns.

Location:
REMOTE - UK ONLY

Take the lead in telling our story and building a strong, engaged online community.

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

Do you have a spare room in your home?

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

Who can be a host?

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

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

Support available

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

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

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

Why is hosting needed?

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

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

Don't have a spare room?

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

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

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

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

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.