Volunteer roles for the Youth and Children sector

Could you be the person who changes a young person's life?

Triple Skillz Charity is a Leicestershire-based organisation working with young people who are at real risk of entering the criminal justice system. We exist to intervene early — building confidence, developing skills, and helping young people move towards employment, education, and away from crime and criminal associations. We receive no statutory funding, which means our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do.

We are currently recruiting volunteer mentors for our Aspire Project.

About the role

As an Aspire Project Mentor, you will be matched with a young person and work alongside a co-mentor to provide consistent, supportive, and positive adult presence in their life — sometimes for the first time. You will meet with your mentee on a weekly basis for up to 2 hours, for a period of around 12 months, helping them to identify their goals and work towards them.

You will support your mentee with their confidence, self-esteem, and personal development; help them to think through choices around education, employment, and relationships; and be a reliable, steady presence they can turn to when facing difficult situations.

You do not need any specific qualifications or professional background. What matters most is that you are reliable, consistent, and genuinely committed to making a difference.

What we will provide

Full training and induction before you begin, covering mentoring skills, safeguarding, and health and safety. Ongoing support from your project co-ordinator throughout. An enhanced DBS check will be required.

Why it matters

The evidence is clear — having a consistent, supportive adult in a young person's life can have a profound impact. If we help keep just one young person out of custody, we save around £250,000 and, far more importantly, we help change the course of a life.

Make a Smile is seeking a motivated and organised Chapter President to lead one of our local Chapters. This is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing committee operations, supporting volunteers, and ensuring the smooth running of all Chapter activities.

About Make a Smile

Make a Smile is a charity dedicated to bringing joy to children through character visits, events, and community engagement. Each Chapter is run by a volunteer committee, and the President plays a central role in guiding and supporting that team.

Role Overview

The Chapter President is responsible for the overall management, development, and compliance of their Chapter. You will lead the committee, coordinate activities, and act as the main link between your Chapter and the national Board of Trustees.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leading teams, solving problems, and making a meaningful impact in their community.

Key Responsibilities

• Local Leadership
• Oversee the day‑to‑day running of the Chapter and support committee members in their roles.
• Provide direction, guidance, and oversight across volunteer recruitment, events, fundraisers, and costume management.
• Chair committee meetings and ensure tasks are completed efficiently and on time.
• Identify when committee members need support and step in with advice, delegation, or hands‑on help.
• Complete and maintain the Chapter Development Plan and work towards improving Chapter performance each year.
• Ensure all activities comply with the charity’s constitution, handbook, and legal requirements.

National Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact between your Chapter and the Board of Trustees.
• Submit a monthly report on Chapter progress, challenges, and key decisions.
• Attend the monthly Charity Leadership Meeting to share updates and contribute to national planning.
• Implement national guidance and changes communicated by Trustees.
• Manage your Chapter’s allocated budget and support fundraising targets.
• Ensure all required paperwork is kept up‑to‑date, including logs, finances, and post‑event forms.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to motivate and support a team.
• Organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple responsibilities.
• Confident decision‑maker with a collaborative approach.
• Passionate about Make a Smile’s mission and working with volunteers.
• No prior charity leadership experience required — full training and guidance provided.

What You’ll Gain

• Leadership and management experience.
• Opportunities to develop strategic planning and organisational skills.
• A chance to make a real difference in your community.
• Experience working closely with a national charity board.
• A rewarding role where you help create magical experiences for children.

Summary

As Chapter President, you will:

• Lead and support your committee.
• Ensure effective operations and compliance.
• Drive Chapter development and improvement.
• Represent your Chapter at national level.
• Lead by example and uphold the values of Make a Smile

Support football and multi-use games area activities by encouraging participation, teamwork, and positive engagement. Volunteers will assist staff with informal games, challenges, tournaments, and recreational activities while helping to create a safe and inclusive environment for all young people.

Promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles Build confidence, teamwork, and resilience Encourage positive peer relationships Help young people develop sportsmanship and leadership skills

The skills you'll need

• Interest in football or sport
• Positive attitude and enthusiasm
• Ability to motivate and encourage young people
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Reliability and flexibility
• Commitment to inclusion and fair play

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Local public parking is available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support young people to explore music through performance, songwriting, recording, production, and creative projects. Volunteers will encourage participation, support learning opportunities, and help create an inclusive environment where young people can develop confidence and express themselves through music.

Encourage creativity and self-expression Build confidence and communication skills Support personal and social development Help young people discover and develop musical talents

The skills you'll need

• Interest in music, performance, or production
• Positive and enthusiastic attitude
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to encourage and motivate young people
• Creativity and patience
• Teamwork and reliability

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Limited local parking may be available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support the delivery of creative arts and crafts activities that encourage young people to express themselves, develop new skills, and build confidence. Volunteers will help facilitate activities such as painting, drawing, sculpture, crafts, and themed creative projects while creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. You will encourage participation, celebrate creativity, and help young people explore their ideas in a fun and supportive space.

Inspire creativity and self-expression in young people Build confidence through creative achievement and skill development Encourage positive social interaction and teamwork Provide a safe space for young people to explore their interests and talents

The skills you'll need

• Enthusiasm for arts, crafts, and creativity
• Good communication and listening skills
• Patience and encouragement when supporting young people
• Ability to work as part of a team Positive and inclusive attitude
• Willingness to undertake safeguarding training

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Local public parking is available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support young people to explore dance, drama, movement, and performance activities. Volunteers will assist with workshops, rehearsals, performances, games, and creative projects while helping to build confidence and participation. You will help create a positive environment where young people can express themselves, develop new skills, and enjoy performing arts.

Develop confidence, self-esteem, and communication skills Encourage creativity and self-expression Support teamwork and collaboration Help young people discover new talents and interests

The skills you'll need

• Interest in dance, drama, or performing arts
• Confidence engaging with groups of young people
• Positive and enthusiastic attitude
• Good communication skills
• Ability to encourage participation and creativity
• Reliability and teamwork

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Local public parking is available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support young people in exploring technology, design, and innovation through activities such as 3D printing, digital design, maker projects, coding, and creative problem-solving. Volunteers will assist staff in delivering engaging sessions that encourage curiosity, experimentation, and learning in a safe environment.

Inspire interest in STEM subjects and technology Build confidence through hands-on learning and problem-solving Develop creativity and innovation skills Support young people to explore future education and career pathways

You will need to have the following skills in order to participate:

• Interest in technology, design, engineering, or making
• Willingness to learn and support technical activities
• Good communication skills
• Patience and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to encourage curiosity and participation
• Positive role model for young people

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Limited local parking may be available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support activities that promote healthy lifestyles, emotional wellbeing, personal development, and positive mental health. Volunteers will help create a supportive environment where young people can participate in wellbeing activities, build resilience, and access positive opportunities for growth and development.

Promote positive mental health and wellbeing Encourage healthy habits and self-care Support confidence, resilience, and self-esteem Help young people feel safe, valued, and supported

You will need to have the following skills in order to participate:

• Empathy and good listening skills
• Positive and supportive attitude
• Ability to build positive relationships with young people
• Good communication skills
• Respect for diversity and inclusion
• Commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Limited local parking may be available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support young people to develop practical cooking and baking skills through fun, engaging, and educational sessions. Volunteers will assist staff with preparing activities, encouraging participation, promoting kitchen safety, and helping young people build confidence through food preparation and cooking.

Develop practical life skills and independence Encourage healthy eating and wellbeing Build confidence through achievement and creativity Create opportunities for social interaction and teamwork

The skills you'll need

• Interest in cooking, baking, or food preparation
• Good communication skills
• Positive and patient approach
• Ability to support and encourage learning
• Teamwork and reliability
• Commitment to food hygiene and safety procedures

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Local public parking may be available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support young people to create podcasts, interviews, recordings, and digital media projects. Volunteers will help facilitate discussions, encourage creativity, support technical activities, and assist young people in developing communication and storytelling skills.

Develop communication and digital media skills Encourage creativity and self-expression Build confidence through sharing ideas and opinions Support young people to develop transferable skills for education and employment

The skills you'll need

• Interest in media, podcasting, or recording
• Good communication and listening skills
• Creativity and enthusiasm
• Ability to encourage participation and discussion
• Basic digital skills (desirable)
• Teamwork and reliability

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Limited local parking may be available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support a variety of sports and recreational activities within the sports hall, helping young people stay active, have fun, and develop new skills. Volunteers will encourage participation, assist with equipment setup, support games and activities, and help maintain a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

Encourage active and healthy lifestyles Support confidence and skill development Promote teamwork and social connections Provide positive recreational opportunities for young people

The skills you'll need

• Interest in sport and physical activity
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to engage and motivate young people
• Teamwork and reliability
• Positive and approachable attitude
• Commitment to inclusion and wellbeing

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Limited local parking may be available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support climbing sessions by helping create an encouraging and welcoming environment where young people can challenge themselves, build confidence, and develop resilience. Volunteers will assist qualified staff with participant engagement, encouragement, and session support.

Help young people develop confidence and self-belief Encourage resilience and problem-solving skills Promote healthy lifestyles and positive risk-taking Support personal achievement and goal setting

You will need to have the following skills in order to participate:

• Interest in climbing or outdoor activities (experience desirable but not essential)
• Positive and encouraging attitude
• Good communication skills
• Ability to support and motivate young people
• Reliability and teamwork
• Willingness to follow health and safety procedures
• Directions - public transport

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Limited local parking may be available. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Join Vault Youth Zone as a Volunteer Youth Worker and help create a fun, welcoming, and engaging space for young people aged 8–19 (up to 25 for young people with additional needs). Volunteers support the Recreation & Engagement team in delivering activities such as pool, table tennis, board games, challenges, group discussions, themed projects, and social activities.

As a volunteer, you will help young people build confidence, make friends, develop new skills, and feel part of a positive community. You will encourage participation, promote our values, and act as a positive role model while working alongside our team of youth workers.

No previous youth work experience is required. Ongoing support and training will be provided.

Help young people feel safe, supported, and inspired. Build confidence, resilience, and social connections among young people. Create positive experiences that encourage personal development and wellbeing. Support an inclusive environment where young people can have fun, express themselves, and develop life skills.

You will need to have the following skills in order to participate:

• Positive and friendly attitude
• Good communication and listening skills
• Ability to engage and encourage young people
• Teamwork and reliability
• Enthusiasm for creating fun and inclusive activities
• Respect for diversity and inclusion
• Willingness to undertake training and follow safeguarding procedures

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Public parking is available locally. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.

Support the delivery of creative arts and crafts activities that encourage young people to express themselves, develop new skills, and build confidence. Volunteers will help facilitate activities such as painting, drawing, sculpture, crafts, and themed creative projects while creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. You will encourage participation, celebrate creativity, and help young people explore their ideas in a fun and supportive space.

Inspire creativity and self-expression in young people Build confidence through creative achievement and skill development Encourage positive social interaction and teamwork Provide a safe space for young people to explore their interests and talents

The skills you'll need

• Enthusiasm for arts, crafts, and creativity
• Good communication and listening skills
• Patience and encouragement when supporting young people
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Positive and inclusive attitude
• Willingness to undertake safeguarding training

Vault Youth Zone is accessible by local bus and train services.

Public car parking is available locally. Full directions will be provided upon successful application.