Volunteer roles for the Disability sector

We are busy team delivering the Supported Internships programme in Stafford (ST18). The programme is based around employment and leisure for young adults with learning disabilities between age 16 and 25. We help people to develop skills for work in a employment setting and build their confidence.

We prepare them for work, and help them improve their Maths and English skills in a classroom setting, as well as:

• Improving their confidence and communication skills
• Building on their social skills with each other and out in the community
• Keeping them inspired and engaged

What You will be doing:

• You will support staff in the classroom with activities
• You will support learners to improve their Maths and English skills
• You will engage with learners, to improve their confidence and independence
• You will encourage learners to try new things and gain new skills
• Out in the community you will support staff to keep learners motivated and engaged

As a volunteer you will help Mencap staff deliver the classroom sessions assisting young adults to improve their skills, and be a support in the community.

**The classroom sessions run from 9am - 4.30pm. Monday and Tuesday. We require a volunteer to be able to commit to one day per week or fortnightly for the academic year. **

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.

We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

Make a meaningful difference by becoming a friendly visitor for a gentleman in his early 70s who, while non-verbal, is active, engaged, and enjoys simple pleasures. He loves doing jigsaws, reading gardening magazines, and watching television. This is a “stop and stay” role where you’ll spend relaxed, quality time together helping with a jigsaw, sharing quiet moments, and offering companionship.

This is a Stop and Stay visit role, meaning that the person you’ll be visiting might have some verbal communication skills or they use sounds and/or facial/body expressions to communicate with you.fr

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tend to be around half an hour to an hour long.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat
• Checking in on their well- being
• A craft activity at home
• Reading a book/magazine together

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

**About Mencap ** Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us

South West Advocacy Network (SWAN) want to strengthen their Board of Trustees with up to 4 new Trustee appointments. These are voluntary positions and provide opportunity to help SWAN to develop its strategic direction and sustain innovative services to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

SWAN began life in Wiltshire and over the past 25 years has expanded into Somerset, Bristol, Dorset, Isle of Wight, West Berkshire, Portsmouth, East Sussex and Worcestershire. We deliver high quality, independent advocacy services supporting a diverse range of vulnerable people. We have developed a model of advocacy which ensures everyone, including the most marginalised, have the same rights and opportunities as their fellow citizens. Our services are free at the point of delivery, confidential and non-judgemental.

We work with people from all walks of life and have supported thousands of the most disadvantaged people to have their voice heard and their choices respected by those that are making decisions about their future.

We are looking for dynamic and empathetic people to become Trustees within our organisation, people who have the passion and drive to support SWAN and help us to ensure that the voices around our Board table reflect and understand the communities we work in. We would encourage people from all sections of our communities to apply , but particularly Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, disabled, and LGBTQ+ applicants because these groups are currently under-represented on our Board. We are happy to accept applications from people without prior Board experience but who can evidence their commitment to our purpose, values and ambitions and show a willingness to learn in the role.

The organisation is led and managed by the Chief Executive and the Executive Team who oversee the delivery of our services and the infrastructure that underpins them, and we believe that this, coupled with sound governance, will help us to achieve our vision and maximise our reach and impact.

We are looking for individuals who can demonstrate some of the following:
• Experiences that will bring different perspectives to our organisation i.e. being a member of, or working in, diverse or minority communities.
• Having direct experience of using advocacy or support services
• An understanding of, or interest in, the lives of vulnerable adults including those who have been victims of hate crime
• An understanding of, or interest in, the wider voluntary sector
• A commitment and willingness to improving the lives of vulnerable people
• Integrity, strategic vision and relationship building skills
• Governance, finance, and/or entrepreneurial experience
• Good communication skills and knowing how to work as part of a team
• For the treasurer role some experience of managing and understanding budgets and financial reports would also be required.

Time commitment averages 1 day a month, meeting locations are flexible and either face to face or virtual. Trustee expenses, including travel are paid.

Please note that for legal and safeguarding purposes, all our roles require a current DBS check and a registered Director Verification Digital ID Code.

If you believe you would add value to our Board we would love to hear from you. Application and further details will be sent to candidates. 

Are you tech-savvy and ready to change lives?

We are by no means looking for the next tech genius, just someone with enough know-how to help others make the most of their devices. Could this be you?

Many of our clients live alone, often with no family nearby, leaving them to face tech challenges by themselves. This can mean a piece of equipment designed to support independence turns into yet another obstacle. This volunteer role has not only been created to provide technology support, but to help our clients access a life beyond their doorstep.

Setting up a new phone, tablet or laptop may seem rather straightforward, now imagine doing the same task with little or no sight… That is where you step in! Ready to provide our clients with the support they need, ranging from helping set-up a new piece of equipment, to locating accessibility features on an existing device, and everything in between.

If this sounds like the role for you, we would love to hear from you!

This role will be subject to a DBS check.

About the REMAP:

Since 1964, REMAP has helped thousands of people each year overcome everyday challenges through innovative, bespoke solutions. When standard commercial products are not suitable, REMAP volunteers design and make one-off equipment tailored to a person’s individual needs. Our work is delivered through more than 65 volunteer-run branches across the UK and is completely free of charge for the people we support.

About the role:

REMAP is looking for Volunteer Makers who can use practical, technical or creative skills to design and make bespoke equipment for disabled people. Previous REMAP solutions designed by our volunteers have included adapted handles, specialist supports, modified furniture, access aids and other one-off items designed around a person’s individual needs. You can find more inspiring solutions on REMAP's website on the Solutions section. 

We are looking for volunteers: 

• With skills or experience in engineering, carpentry, DIY, product design, electronics, metalwork, plastics, workshop practice or practical problem-solving.
• With access to own tools or workshop .
• Who live in the area of your local Branch and have access to transport.
• Who are able to listen carefully, work safely, think creatively and treat people with dignity and respect
• With an understanding of risk management and who can follow set policies and procedures

What will you be doing:

You will take on practical cases that match your skills and availability. This may include meeting clients, speaking with families or therapists, understanding a practical challenge, and designing or making a safe solution using materials such as wood, metal, plastic or electronics.

What difference will you make:

Your volunteering and solutions will help disabled people overcome everyday barriers and enjoy greater independence, confidence and choice. Many REMAP projects are modest in size but life-changing in impact for the person receiving them.

​Salary: 

This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Support:

Induction, mentoring, local branch support and guidance on safe working are provided. DBS checks are arranged where required.

Why Volunteer With REMAP?

• To give someone greater independence, confidence and choice in everyday life.
• To use your existing practical, maker skills.
• To share your experience.
• To learn new skills. 
• To join a welcoming likeminded community of makers with great practical skills.
• To increase your own wellbeing through purposeful volunteering that makes a real difference. 

PUBLICITY & MARKETING VOLUNTEER

Across the UK, our 65 local branches work with disabled people to help them live the lives they choose. Our network of skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests each year to design and make customised equipment free of charge.

Our Publicity & Marketing volunteers play an essential role in publicising and raising awareness of their local branch’s activities.

What will you do? 

This is a varied role that each branch tends to do a bit differently, but it will involve:

• Collecting case studies from the clients we help

• Writing stories for the local press

• Distributing literature

• Arranging talks

• Working with the Central Team to promote panel activities

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What skills will you need for this role?

• Confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email

• Confident using social media platforms

• Warm, approachable and confident to engage with clients to gather their story

• Able to follow REMAP policies and procedures

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• A commitment to our values

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and some online training.

If it works better for you, there’s a possibility this role could be done remotely.

Why volunteer

When you volunteer with us, you join a community of committed people with a passion for helping to improve the lives of others. We’re a volunteer led organisation and we couldn’t do what we do without your hard work, skills and commitment.

N.B. We’ll reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses during your time with us.

Description

This group offers blind and partially sighted people living with Retinal Detachment the opportunity to socialise with one another on a regular basis. Could you be the right person to facilitate the group? Do you have personal or professional experience of Retinal Detachment? If you’re also a good listener, able to manage group conversations and make people feel comfortable in a social group environment, we're keen to hear from you.

This is a telephone-based role that you can do from home. You will need access to a landline and/or mobile phone. We ask you to commit to 1-2 hours per week to facilitate one group session, which will take place at the same day and time each week.

You will be the link between the group participants and the RNIB Talk and Support team and will:

• Listen to the group conversation, ensure it flows and that all conversations are appropriate;
• Make appropriate contributions as and when required to stimulate conversation;
• Create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere thus encouraging all participants to feel comfortable taking part;
• Report any Safeguarding concerns or data breaches to the Talk & Support staff team.

How often will I be needed?

• 2 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• 2 references

Description

We're setting up a new telephone group which will offer blind and partially sighted people living with AMD the opportunity to socialise with one another each week and we're looking for someone to facilitate the group. The right person will have have personal or professional experience of AMD, will be a good listener who is able to manage group conversations and will have the skills to enable people to feel comfortable in a social group environment.

This is a telephone-based role that you can do from home. You will need access to a landline and/or mobile phone. We ask you to commit to 1-2 hours per week to facilitate one group session, which will take place at the same day and time each week.

You will be the link between the group participants and the RNIB Talk and Support team and will:

• Listen to the group conversation, ensure it flows and that all conversations are appropriate;
• Make appropriate contributions as and when required to stimulate conversation;
• Create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere thus encouraging all participants to feel comfortable taking part;
• Report any Safeguarding concerns or data breaches to the Talk & Support staff team.

How often will I be needed?

• 2 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• 2 references

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • Personal experience of living with, or a professional background in Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
• • Good listening and verbal communication skills
• • Ability to use the telephone confidently for an hour long call
• • Ability to work with a wide range of people from across the UK
• • Demonstrate empathy and understanding of the issues faced by visually impaired people
• • Ability to follow internal policy and procedures
• • Willingness to undertake and remain compliant with mandatory safeguarding training and attend other training and development opportunities when required.

Description

We're setting up a new telephone group which will offer blind and partially sighted people living with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) the opportunity to socialise with one another on a regular basis. We're looking for the right person to facilitate the group. Do you have personal or professional experience of RP? If you’re also a good listener, able to manage group conversations and make people feel comfortable in a social group environment, we’re keen to hear from you.

This is a telephone-based role that you can do from home. You will need access to a landline and/or mobile phone. We ask you to commit to 1-2 hours per week to facilitate one group session, which will take place at the same day and time each week.

You will be the link between the group participants and the RNIB Talk and Support team and will:

• Listen to the group conversation, ensure it flows and that all conversations are appropriate;
• Make appropriate contributions as and when required to stimulate conversation;
• Create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere thus encouraging all participants to feel comfortable taking part;
• Report any Safeguarding concerns or data breaches to the Talk & Support staff team.

How often will I be needed?

• 2 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• 2 references

cross the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Group Coordinator, you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group reaches out to people affected by MS.

The role is varied, and will enable you to further develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Health and Safety Volunteer you’ll make sure all local group volunteers are aware of their health and safety responsibilities. You’ll help them understand and follow guidelines and procedures to coordinate safe activities.

In this role you’ll gain experience of health and safety, as well as develop your organisation, admin and communication skills.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a local group Finance Volunteer, you’ll make sure your group gets the most for their money. In this role you’ll be able to develop your financial and communication skills whilst working closely with other members of the group Coordinating Team.

Most importantly, you’ll be part of a team that provides vital support and services to people within your local MS community.

Who are we: 
We are Buttons & Bubbles CIC. We are dedicated to increasing inclusion and representation across society for the disability community. We take a positive and proactive disability and illness. We don't conform to society's and the media's view that disability is awful, and you have no quality of life. Although we fully acknowledge it gives rise to come of the most heartbreaking and challenging times you will ever face. We ask everyone who joins Buttons & Bubbles to embrace this perspective. If you don't agree with it, then sadly we're not the right organisation for you. 

About the role: 
 
We are looking for people to join our communications team. Helping with a variety of tasks from social media scheduling to posting job adverts to helping create policies.  

Our values: 

We embrace disability and neurodiversity; it makes us a stronger and more brilliant team. No robots at Buttons & Bubbles, thank you! 

What are we looking for? 

We are looking for a few individuals who may have the following skills and experience. Don't worry if you haven’t as full training will be provided.

Skillset; 

• Communication skills  

• Editing cntent  

• Scheduling content  

• Knowledge of admin programs including spreadsheets and outlook 

• Organised  

• Adaptable  

• Willing to learn and develop  

• An individual with a creative mindset 

• Thrill of building an online community. 

• Have a basic DBS check

• Positive attitude towards disability or illness 

Benefits of joining Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C:  

• Gaining valuable experience. 

• Improving your confidence 

• Allows you to explore potentially different areas of interest. 

Benefits of volunteering with us:  

• Making a difference to the community 

• Makes a positive impact on people 

• Develop your current skill set and gain new skills. 

• Displays your level of commitment to future employers. 

• Displays your ability to balance and schedule your time effectively when seeking future 

• Employment opportunities

VOLUNTEER ADMINISTRATOR / COORDINATOR

Across the UK, our 65 local branches help disabled people live the lives they choose. Our network of skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests each year to design and make customised equipment free of charge.

As an Administrator/ Coordinator you’ll support your Chair or Coordinator in making sure your local branch works as effectively as possible.

You’ll bring your leadership, communication, organisation, and motivational skills to this role.

What the role involves

This is a varied role where local need shapes what you’ll be working on, but it can include:

• Supporting the Chair/Coordinator in organising branch activities, from setting up branch meetings to planning and completing referrals

• Helping the Chair/Coordinator oversee the recruitment, induction, and ongoing support of new volunteers

• Deputising for the Chair/Coordinator when necessary

• Acting as a key contact between staff and volunteers

 What you’ll need for this role

Essential

• Confident in leading and chairing a meeting when required

• Confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email

• Willingness to attend local events to promote the charity’s work

• Ability to understand and follow external and internal policies and procedures

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• Willing to follow Remap policies and procedures – and a commitment to our values

Desirable

• Confident in communicating with different audiences, including decision-makers and volunteers

• Able to delegate and motivate the activities of others

• Enthusiastic about raising awareness of the charity’s work in the local area

• Willingness to develop skills and experience

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and reference check, and you may need a DBS check if you also have another client facing role.

Why volunteer

When you volunteer with us, you join a community of committed people with a passion for helping to improve the lives of others. We’re a volunteer led organisation and we couldn’t do what we do without your hard work, skills and commitment.

N.B. We’ll reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses during your time with us.