Volunteer roles for the Disability sector

We are inviting applications from people interested in serving the charity on a voluntary basis as trustees of Headway UK.

Trustees are the guardians of a charity's purpose, providing leadership, oversight and strategic direction to ensure the organisation remains effective, sustainable and focused on delivering its mission.

As a trustee of Headway UK, you will join a committed board working collectively to support and challenge the executive team, safeguard the charity's reputation and resources, and help shape its future priorities.

Having conducted a knowledge, skills and experience audit, we are particularly looking broaden the collective expertise of the board by recruiting new trustees with the following skills:

• Charity and/or company law
• Safeguarding
• Neuropsychology
• Charity retail
• Cyber security and digital transformation

We also warmly welcome applications from people with experience of Headway network of local charities and branches.

In addition, we are seeking to strengthen our diversity of background and representation of those we serve and thus we particularly welcome applications from brain injury survivors, applicants from minority ethnic backgrounds and applicants from the devolved nations of the UK.

If you are interested, please download and read carefully the Trustee recruitment pack below, which also includes details of how to apply.

Deadline for applications:

• If you are voting the member of a Headway charity or branch and wish to nominate someone, the deadline is 5 August.
• If you unconnected to a Headway charity or branch, the deadline for applications is 16 August.

Please note that the difference between the two application deadlines relates to the charity’s Articles of Association, which require nominations from the network to be received 42 clear days before the date of the forthcoming AGM to be held on 17 September.

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 an Activities Organiser, you'll bring your skills, energy and enthusiasm to lead, develop and plan activities and events with your local group. You’ll get involved in creating and coordinating an annual calendar of events, making sure they’re run safely and effectively, to be accessible to our MS community. You’ll take a lead role at events on the day, inspiring your fellow volunteers to get involved.  

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 an Activities Volunteer, you’ll help our group deliver well organised activities and support everyone who takes part. Whether you’re serving refreshments or talking to people, you’ll help everyone feel welcome.

This role will help you develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.

A great opportunity to have a leading role as Treasurer for a successful charity that is achieving real change for people with learning disabilities, autistic people, or people with other support needs, and their families.

About us 
The Association for Real Change (ARC) is a charity which works in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland. We are looking for a Treasurer to join our Board. 

Our vision is to celebrate difference, respect, listen to and include everyone.  Our work benefits people with learning disabilities, autistic people, or people with other support needs - and their families. 

Our aims are to improve: 

· Knowledge and Rights 

· Choice and Control 

· Inclusion and Equality. 

To do this we bring people together.  We support them to share different views and experiences.  We help them to agree and take action to achieve real change through training, research, networks, collective advocacy and policy. 

The role
We are seeking a Treasurer with experience of financial reporting, oversight and governance to join our Board of Trustees. The right candidate will work closely with the current Treasurer who will provide mentoring support until they step down from the Board in September 2026.

Trustees have individual and collective responsibility to ensure the highest standards of Governance for ARC. You will work with the ARC Chair, Board and Strategic Leadership Team to deliver our strategic vision and help ensure the long-term future and success of ARC. The Treasurer is a trustee that offers strategic and financial oversight of the charity.

The ARC Board of Trustees meet four times a year; one in-person and three online, so the role will require a degree of travel and the occasional overnight stay.  Our Board is inclusive of people with additional needs who are experts by experience. 

This is a voluntary position.  Your travel and other out of pocket expenses will be paid.

About you 
You have experience of financial reporting, oversight and governance of a charity. A financial qualification would be helpful.

We are particularly keen to hear from you if:

· You have experience of delivering positive social change, either in your professional or personal life. 

· You are a leader in social care, delivering or improving the support people get. 

· You have experience monitoring the financial matters of a charity.

See role description and person specification, and strategic vision below.

Terms of Office

This post may be held for a term of 3 years, then the post holder may stand for re-election for a further 3 years, after which time the post holder must stand down.

Person Specification

· A commitment to the values and principles of human rights, equality and inclusion.

· Understanding of the experiences of people with learning disabilities, autistic people, or people with other support needs - and their families.

· Knowledge and experience of accounting practices for corporate governance

· Knowledge and experience of financial regulations governing charities and companies

· Qualification in financial management and or financial auditing is desirable.

· Able to commit sufficient time

· Ability to think strategically and forward plan

· Ability to digest, present and critically evaluate a range of information, including written reports, statistics, and verbal communications

· Willingness to challenge and engage

· A commitment to the value of partnership approaches to address challenges and capitalise on opportunities.

· An ability to effectively communicate in groups.

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.

As our local branch Finance/Treasurer volunteer, you’ll make sure your branch gets the most for its money. You’ll maintain income and expenditure records to document and report on branch finances. You’ll manage their accounts and make financial information easy to understand.

What the role involves

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

• Accurately maintaining income and expenditure records to  document and report on branch finances

• Offering objectivity around the spending of money and ensuring money is spent in a cost-effective manner

• Approving income and expenditure with the other branch bank account signatories

• Ensuring that our financial requirements and policies relating to group finances are followed

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.

Essential Criteria:

Our Volunteer Treasurers/ Finance Assistants will manage the bank account for the local branch.  To be accepted by the bank you need an acceptable credit rating, be a UK resident and preferably live in the area of the REMAP branch you are applying for. 

What you’ll need for this role: 

• Confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email

• Experience in bookkeeping, budgeting, and planning income and expenditure

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal data safe

• A commitment to our aims and values

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

Where will I volunteer?

The Finance Volunteer role is largely home based, but it varies from branch to branch – some branches hold in-person meetings once a month or so, and their Finance Volunteers must be based in the area the branch covers. Your local branch will be able to provide more information.

Time commitment

This also varies, but it’s generally around 1-2 hours a week.

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

Job Overview
We are seeking dedicated and compassionate Volunteers to join our drop in group in Crawley that take place on 1st and 3rd Monday of month, 10:30-12:30. This role is ideal for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the community while gaining valuable experience or perhaps someone looking to train as a speech and language therapist.

The Say Aphasia charity provides support groups across the UK for people with aphasia; a language and communication disability caused by a brain injury like a stroke. Aphasia affects over 350,000 people in the UK but is little understood or known about by the public. It is the only aphasia charity set up by people with aphasia for people with aphasia; helping them to adapt to their new way of life and regain their independence and confidence.

Aphasia occurs due to injury to the brain such as a stroke. It affects access to language, resulting in difficulties following conversations, speaking, reading and writing.

Volunteers will support the running of the group with communicating, and will have the opportunity to utilise their communication skills and IT knowledge to take a register of attendance.

Responsibilities

• Provide companionship and support to individuals, particularly those living with asphasia.
• Assist in organising activities that promote social interaction and engagement.
• Communicate effectively with participants, ensuring their needs are understood and met.
• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.
• Collaborate with other volunteers to enhance the group.

Qualifications

• An understanding or knowledge in aphasia is desirable.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups.
• Proficiency in IT, including familiarity with common software applications.
• A compassionate and patient attitude towards individuals in need of support.

This volunteer position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute positively to the lives of others while developing personal skills and experiences.

�� Important Eligibility Note: This is an onsite, self-funded international volunteer placement located in Ghana. This opportunity is open ONLY to international volunteers and applicants traveling from outside the African continent (including Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Australia, and Antarctica). Because SFLIG operates on a sustainable, grassroots model, volunteers must fully fund their own experience, including international flights, visa arrangements, and the program fee which covers safe community housing, daily meals, airport pickup, and 24/7 onsite support. Local applications cannot be considered for this international framework.

Program Overview

Gain a profound understanding of global maternal health and clinical obstetrics by joining SFLIG Volunteers’ Midwifery placement in Ghana. Tailored specifically for midwifery students, aspiring labor and delivery nurses, OB/GYN residents, and pre-health students, this program offers an immersive look at pre-natal, labor, and post-natal care in resource-limited settings.

Participants shadow local midwives and obstetric nurses in bustling regional hospitals and rural clinics, witnessing firsthand the resourcefulness, cultural practices, and challenges unique to maternal healthcare delivery in West Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Clinical Observation & Shadowing: Shadow skilled local midwives and obstetric staff during prenatal consultations, active labor, deliveries, and postnatal evaluations.

• Maternal & Neonatal Triage Support: Assist staff under direct supervision with routine tasks such as measuring maternal vitals, tracking fetal heart rates, and charting patient progress.

• Postnatal Care Assistance: Observe and assist with newborn checkups, maternal recovery monitoring, and educational support for new mothers regarding breastfeeding and infant wellness.

• Community Public Health Outreaches: Participate in local community health caravans focused on reproductive health education, family planning resources, and neonatal care in rural villages.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Current student or graduate in Midwifery, Nursing (with a focus on Labor & Delivery), Pre-Med, Public Health, or a related field.

• A deep commitment to patient privacy, clinical ethics, and respect for cultural birth practices.

• Emotional resilience, high adaptability, and the ability to maintain composure in fast-paced, high-stakes clinical environments.

• Strong interpersonal skills and an eagerness to learn from local, experienced midwives.

• Onsite Commitment & Self-Funding: Ability to travel to and reside onsite in Ghana for the duration of your placement, with the financial capacity to cover all associated travel and program expenses.

Cultural Experience & Weekend Tours

Volunteering with SFLIG is more than just clinical work; it is a full cultural immersion. Beyond your hours in the clinic, you will experience the famous warmth and hospitality of Ghana through local language lessons, traditional cooking sessions, and community gatherings.

On the weekends, you will have the opportunity to join coordinated group excursions to explore Ghana's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Depending on your placement region, weekend tours can include:

• Walking the canopy bridges at Kakum National Park.

• Exploring the historic Cape Coast and Elmina Castles.

• Visiting the vibrant cultural markets of Kumasi.

• Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of the coastal region.

Program Flexibility & Hours

• Flexible Start Dates: This is an all-year-round opportunity. Volunteers select their own arrival and departure dates to align with their personal, professional, or academic schedules.

• Customizable Schedules: You have the flexibility to determine your daily hospital/clinic shift lengths and the total number of hours you wish to commit each day, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the local culture.

About the Role 

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. We aim to increase inclusion and representation for the disability community across society. We have several different services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails and more. 

As Buttons & Bubbles continues to grow, we are hoping to put together a team of assistants who will be responsible for attending in-person fundraising opportunities. Volunteers will help with small tasks at the events we attend and organise. This may include helping children take part in our activities, setting up and packing away equipment, and engaging with families and members of the public. 

Who Are We Looking For? 

• Someone who is passionate about our mission of inclusion, representation, and belonging. 

• No prior experience is necessary, but an enthusiasm for creating events and supporting fundraising efforts is essential. 

• You should be happy working as part of a team while also being confident in taking on tasks independently. 

• Be able to commute to Surrey and Berkshire for our events. 

What Do We Expect? 

• Must be willing to undertake our training programme, which will be completed virtually at a time that suits you. 

• Have a DBS check (preferably be on the update service) or be willing to complete one with us. 

• Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it, please discuss it with us, we’re happy to make small changes where appropriate.) 

• Have a positive attitude toward disability and illness. We’re always happy to answer questions about this. 

What Can You Expect? 

• A kind, caring, and nurturing company that values its people, staff, and volunteers. Our aim is to keep your wellbeing at the centre of our work. 

• A community group that does not currently operate a rota system of any kind. Therefore, you don’t have to commit your time regularly only when it suits you. 

• A positive and proactive approach to disability and illness. Any and all accommodations you require will be made. If you’d like to discuss something privately, please email us to arrange a confidential chat. 

Benefits of Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C 

• Make a difference in your community. 

• Have a positive impact on people’s lives. 

• Develop your current skills and gain new ones. 

• Demonstrate your commitment and reliability to future employers. 

• Show your ability to balance and manage your time effectively. 

• Build your confidence. 

• Explore new areas of interest by taking on additional tasks if you wish. 

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As a Shop Volunteer you’ll be joining a friendly, welcoming team of volunteers and staff who support each other and have a lot of fun along the way. We value every volunteer and the unique perspective, skills and energy you bring. 

Whether you’re sorting donations, creating beautiful displays, or chatting to customers, every task you take on helps to build a more inclusive world. 

We value volunteer development, and as part of this role your can develop your skills further by training to become a till user alongside your regular shop volunteer responsibilities, or progressing into a Key volunteer, a role which includes opening, running, and closing the shop in the absence of the manager.

No matter your reason for volunteering – whether it’s to meet new people, build new skills or support Sense’s cause – there’s a place for you in one of our shops. 

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

Key responsibilities: Key volunteer 

Being a Key volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop and till volunteer. However, if you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

If you are interested in becoming a Key volunteer straight away, please select ‘Key volunteer’ when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 
• Reasonable volunteer expenses reimbursed in line with our volunteer expenses policy.

Our values

Our values shape the way we behave and work alongside disabled people with complex needs to break down barriers. 

• We're creating change
• We're always learning
• We're better together

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join a distinctive and values-driven organisation. We are seeking a new Treasurer to join the Board of Trustees and play a crucial role in supporting the organisation’s sustainable future. While prior knowledge of brain injury is not required, the Treasurer is expected to demonstrate an interest in  brain injury, as well as in the Headway community, and to share the organisation’s mission and values.

The Treasurer will lead on the financial strategy, work closely with the Director of Finance, ensuring that financial insight informs the Board’s strategic thinking. This will include thorough pre-review of financial reports ahead of each Board meeting, chairing Finance & Audit Committee meetings, and presenting financial reports to the Board and at the AGM.

The role holder, will support the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities for the charity’s ambitious strategy and governance. They will work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and provide guidance to the Director of Finance and Chief Executive on the strategic management of finances.

Other

Apply the Headway London values and behaviours to every aspect of the role at all times.

Protect and enhance the interests and reputation of Headway London internally and externally.

Commit to the organisational principles of: coproduction equity, diversity and inclusion sustainability.

Headway London is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we are committed to ensuring that all staff are motivated, skilled and rewarded by their work. We welcome applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, colour, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age and other protected status as required by law. We promote and protect human rights; they are the foundation of what we do. We want to be an inclusive place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come and contribute their unique strengths and perspectives. We are focused on equality and believe that all the fascinating characteristics that make us different, make us more able to deliver our life-changing work with passion and creativity.

Volunteer with halow!

Make a difference, have fun, and be part of our community

Our volunteers play a vital role in helping halow’s young people enjoy new experiences, build friendships, and take part in activities they love. As a Sports & Fitness Volunteer, you’ll support our young people as they take part in a variety of sports and fitness activities. You'll help encourage an active lifestyle, build confidence, and create a fun, inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy getting active and trying new sports. Although our offices are based in Guildford, we welcome volunteers from various places, as opportunities for their support arise all over Surrey. They are not expected to come to us with any previous experience; all we ask for is commitment and a willingness to work with our young people.

Who can volunteer?

No previous experience is needed,we’re looking for people who are enthusiastic, reliable, and willing to support our young people. Although our office is based in Guildford, volunteering opportunities are available across Surrey

Why volunteer for halow?

Our volunteers enjoy the fun of our events and can gain valuable work experience whilst enjoying giving something back to the community, taking on new challenges and sharing their skills to help others. Other benefits include:

• To try something new
• To have fun
• To give something back to the community
• To do something that you feel is important to you
• To meet new people
• To gain valuable work experience
• To take on new challenges
• To share your skills in order to help others
• To build confidence

Join us and help create meaningful experiences and memories for young people across Surrey.

Volunteer with halow!

Make a difference, have fun, and be part of our community

Our volunteers play a vital role in helping halow’s young people enjoy new experiences, build friendships, and take part in activities they love. As an Arts & Crafts Volunteer, you’ll support our young people as they explore a variety of creative activities, including drawing, painting, pottery, and sculpture. You'll help encourage creativity, build confidence, and support them in developing new artistic skills in a fun and welcoming environment. Although our offices are based in Guildford, we welcome volunteers from various places, as opportunities for their support arise all over Surrey. They are not expected to come to us with any previous experience; all we ask for is commitment and a willingness to work with our young people.

Who can volunteer?

No previous experience is needed,we’re looking for people who are enthusiastic, reliable, and willing to support our young people. Although our office is based in Guildford, volunteering opportunities are available across Surrey

Why volunteer for halow?

Our volunteers enjoy the fun of our events and can gain valuable work experience whilst enjoying giving something back to the community, taking on new challenges and sharing their skills to help others. Other benefits include:

• To try something new
• To have fun
• To give something back to the community
• To do something that you feel is important to you
• To meet new people
• To gain valuable work experience
• To take on new challenges
• To share your skills in order to help others
• To build confidence

Join us and help create meaningful experiences and memories for young people across Surrey.

Volunteer with halow!

Make a difference, have fun, and be part of our community

Our volunteers play a vital role in helping halow’s young people enjoy new experiences, build friendships, and take part in activities they love.

As a Social Activity Volunteer, you’ll support a range of fun activities based around the interests of our young people, including bowling, theatre trips, discos, and days out. Whether you can volunteer once a week, once a month, or a few times a year, your time and support can make a real difference.There is no minimum time constraint, all we ask is a commitment from volunteers

Who can volunteer?

No previous experience is needed,we’re looking for people who are enthusiastic, reliable, and willing to support our young people. Although our office is based in Guildford, volunteering opportunities are available across Surrey

Why volunteer for halow?

Our volunteers enjoy the fun of our events and can gain valuable work experience whilst enjoying giving something back to the community, taking on new challenges and sharing their skills to help others. Other benefits include:

• To try something new
• To have fun
• To give something back to the community
• To do something that you feel is important to you
• To meet new people
• To gain valuable work experience
• To take on new challenges
• To share your skills in order to help others
• To build confidence

Join us and help create meaningful experiences and memories for young people across Surrey.

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As a Shop Volunteer you’ll be joining a friendly, welcoming team of volunteers and staff who support each other and have a lot of fun along the way. We value every volunteer and the unique perspective, skills and energy you bring. 

Whether you’re sorting donations, creating beautiful displays, or chatting to customers, every task you take on helps to build a more inclusive world. 

We value volunteer development, and as part of this role you can develop your skills further by training to become a till user alongside your regular shop volunteer responsibilities, or progressing into a Key volunteer, a role which includes opening, running, and closing the shop in the absence of the manager.

No matter your reason for volunteering – whether it’s to meet new people, build new skills or support Sense’s cause – there’s a place for you in one of our shops. 

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer 

You’ll spend time doing a range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do.

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 
• Reasonable volunteer expenses reimbursed in line with our volunteer expenses policy.

Our values:

Our values shape the way we behave and work alongside disabled people with complex needs to break down barriers. 

• We're creating change
• We're always learning
• We're better together