Volunteer roles for the Mental Health sector
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Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Impact: Be the first point of contact for women in need and the catalyst for doubling our service capacity.
What will you be doing?
Founded in 2013, Release Therapy for Women has supported the mental health of thousands of women. We are looking for a skilled Volunteer Counselling Assessor.
As an Assessor, you are the gateway to our service. You won’t hold a long-term caseload; instead, you will conduct 30-minute initial consultations to help women feel heard, assess their clinical needs, and match them with the most suitable counsellor.
Key Responsibilities:
Deliver 5 initial assessment sessions per week via our online system, Cliniko.
Conduct clinical risk assessments (safeguarding, suicide, self-harm) to ensure the service is a safe fit for the client.
Identify the client's ability to contribute to our sliding scale (£25/£40/£60) to help sustain the charity.
Provide brief, clear hand-over notes to the assigned counsellor to ensure a seamless start to therapy.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for a qualified therapist who enjoys the "first contact" phase of therapy and has a keen eye for clinical matching.
Qualifications: Qualified counsellor/CBT therapist (Minimum Level 4) and registered with BACP, UKCP, BABCP, BPS, or HCPC.
Clinical Skills: Strong experience in risk assessment and triaging complex presentations.
Gender Requirement: This post is only open to female applicants as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.
Tech Savvy: Comfortable using Cliniko or similar practice management software for remote working.
Values: A commitment to empowering women and reducing isolation through ethical, accessible therapy.
What difference will you make?
By taking on this role, you solve our biggest bottleneck. Your 3–4 hours a week will allow us to move 20 women a month off our waiting list and into active therapy. You aren't just assessing; you are the bridge that connects a woman in crisis to the long-term support she needs.
What’s in it for you?
Specialist Experience: Develop your skills in clinical assessment and triage.
Flexibility: A small, consistent time commitment that fits around your private practice or other work.
Support: Access to our optional peer supervision group and quarterly team catch-ups.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join the team! - Bring your energy, positivity, and enthusiasm to our Cheer Squad and help inspire participants in running events, that are fundraising on behalf of MumsAid.
Purpose of Role
As a MumsAid Cheer Squad Volunteer, you’ll be the energetic, encouraging presence along the fundraising event route. Your cheers and support will motivate participants, help them reach the finish line, and make each event memorable for everyone involved.
What will you be doing?
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Cheer, clap, and use provided materials to boost participants’ energy and motivation.
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Be part of a team creating a lively, positive, and fun atmosphere.
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Engage with participants and their families, celebrating their efforts.
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Help make MumsAid events inspiring and memorable.
What skills and qualities can you bring?
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Warm, welcoming, and friendly personality.
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Energetic and enthusiastic, able to cheer and encourage in a supportive way.
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Comfortable being outdoors in all weathers.
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Able to stand for several hours or bring something to sit on.
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Able to travel independently to the event.
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Reliable, punctual, and committed.
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Supportive of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
What is in it for me?
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Join a friendly, welcoming volunteer team.
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Be part of a supportive, community-focused charity.
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Gain experience in volunteering and events.
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Receive clear communication and support from the MumsAid events team, including event details and meeting points.
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Volunteer t-shirt and cheer materials.
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Snacks and drinks during your volunteer shift.
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Reimbursement of pre-agreed travel expenses (with receipts).
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,
About VoiceAbility
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.
We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.
Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility
Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!
We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!
Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
As a RPR support volunteer, you might:
- As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:
- Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
- Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
- Raise concerns
- Keep detailed notes and records
- Make a real difference to someone’s life
Hospital Visitor Volunteer
Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate. The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
- hold drop-in sessions
- attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
- share information
- assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00. You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.
Safeguarding Commitment Statement
VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.
ED&I Statement
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.
VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.
To find out more click “Apply Now”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Men’s Self‑Improvement Programme Volunteers
Help Build the Frontline of a New Movement for Men
At MINDSET, we’re not here to tweak the system — we’re here to rebuild it. Men across England and Wales are stuck between long waiting lists, clinical models that don’t fit, and a culture that tells them to “man up”. We’re changing that.
We’re launching a brand-new Men’s Self‑Improvement Programme, and we’re looking for committed volunteers to help shape, deliver, and grow the work that will transform men’s lives.
The Mission
1. Build the Blueprint
Help design and develop practical, high‑impact sessions focused on mental fitness, personal growth, and real‑world self‑improvement.
2. Lead the Frontline
Support and deliver our direct work with men — creating spaces that are positive, structured, and genuinely useful.
3. Shift the Culture
Help us challenge outdated narratives about men’s wellbeing and spark a national conversation about growth, strength, and self‑leadership.
4. Evolve the Model
Gather real feedback, test ideas, and help us refine the programme so it always meets men where they are.
The Vibe
We’re informal, direct, and relentlessly positive. No jargon. No judgement. No fluff.
You’ll have:
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Freedom to create
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Space to lead
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A real role in shaping a national movement from day one
This is hands-on, meaningful, legacy-building work.
Sound like you?
If you’re passionate about men’s personal development, confident working with people, and excited by the idea of building something from scratch, we’d love to have you on the team.
Join the MINDSET Mission
Help us build the future of men’s self‑improvement.
To empower men across England to take charge of their mental wellbeing and personal growth through connection, conversation, and community.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ready to build something that actually matters?
At MINDSET, we’re ditching the clinical jargon and the therapy couches. We are a brand-new start-up dedicated to men’s mental wellbeing and personal growth across England and Wales—and we need a powerhouse to help us build our backbone.
We’re looking for a Volunteer Programme Lead (Volunteer) who gets people. If you’ve got the experience to own our recruitment, nail the onboarding, and keep our growing team of volunteers fired up and supported, we want you.
The Mission:
- Find the talent: Source and recruit legendary volunteers who give a damn.
- Set the tone: Create an onboarding experience that makes people proud to join us.
- Lead the pack: Manage and support our squad so they can do their best work.
The Vibe:
No red tape. No "corporate" fluff. Just a direct, positive, and high-energy environment where your expertise will literally shape the future of this charity from day one.
Sound like you?
If you’re experienced, proactive, and ready to help men level up their lives, let’s talk.
Join the MINDSET Movement
To empower men across England to take charge of their mental wellbeing and personal growth through connection, conversation, and community.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ready to arm our team with the tools to change lives?
At MINDSET, we’re not interested in ticking boxes or sitting through boring PowerPoints. We are a brand-new start-up shaking up men’s mental wellbeing across England and Wales—and we need a Training Lead who knows how to turn potential into performance.
We’re looking for someone who can take our volunteers, induct them into the MINDSET way, and give them the genuine skills and confidence they need to be world-class in their roles.
The Mission:
- The Deep Dive: Lead the induction process, ensuring every volunteer "gets" our mission and culture from hour one.
- The Toolkit: Design and deliver training that provides practical, real-world skills—not just theory.
- The Edge: Provide the ongoing tools and support that help our team stay sharp and be the best at what they do.
The Vibe:
We’re non-clinical, non-therapeutic, and 100% focused on growth. This is your chance to build a training programme from the ground up in a high-energy, zero-fluff environment.
Sound like you?
If you’re a natural coach with the experience to empower others and a passion for men’s personal growth, we need you on the ground floor.
Apply to lead our Training
To empower men across England to take charge of their mental wellbeing and personal growth through connection, conversation, and community.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ready to build the frontline of a brand-new movement?
At MINDSET, we’re not just another charity; we’re a start-up shaking up men’s mental wellbeing across England and Wales. We’ve ditched the waiting rooms and the clinical "one-size-fits-all" approach. Now, we need a Services & Projects Lead to design, build, and launch the very work that will change men’s lives.
We are looking for a visionary, action-oriented volunteer to take the lead on creating and developing our frontline services, high-impact projects, and game-changing campaigns.
The Mission:
- Architect the Impact: Design and develop our core services and projects from the ground up, focused on mental fitness and self-improvement.
- Lead the Frontline: Organise and oversee our direct work with men, ensuring everything we do is high-quality, impactful, and zero-fluff.
- Spark the Conversation: Create and drive campaigns that challenge the narrative around men’s growth and get people talking across England and Wales.
- Innovate & Improve: Constantly evolve our services based on real-world feedback to ensure we’re always delivering exactly what men need.
The Vibe:
We’re informal, direct, and positive. You’ll have the freedom to be creative, the space to lead, and the chance to build a legacy with a brand-new organisation that actually "gets it".
Sound like you?
If you’re a natural leader with a passion for men’s personal growth and the experience to build something from scratch, we want you on the team.
Lead the MINDSET Mission
To empower men across England to take charge of their mental wellbeing and personal growth through connection, conversation, and community.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ready to tell the story that changes the narrative?
At MINDSET, we’re not just another charity; we’re a brand-new movement for men’s mental wellbeing and personal growth across England and Wales. We’re tired of the clinical, "waiting room" energy. We need a Communications Lead to help us cut through the noise with bold, impactful content that finally speaks a language men actually respond to.
We’re looking for a creative storyteller who can capture the grit, the growth, and the real-world impact of what we do, turning our mission into a profile that gets recognised nationwide.
The Mission:
- The Narrative: Create powerful content that tells the authentic stories of the men we support—focusing on strength, resilience, and action rather than just hardship.
- The Megaphone: Lead our social media and digital presence (think Instagram for visuals, LinkedIn for partnerships, and TikTok for authentic, raw updates) to raise our profile.
- The Identity: Ensure MINDSET is seen as the go-to space for non-clinical growth, building a brand that feels like a community, not a service.
The Vibe:
We’re action-first and zero-fluff. You’ll have total creative freedom to ditch the "sad face" charity clichés and build a high-impact communication strategy from the ground up.
Sound like you?
If you’re a content pro who knows how to move an audience and wants to use those skills to spark a national conversation about men’s growth, let’s talk.
Tell the MINDSET Story
To empower men across England to take charge of their mental wellbeing and personal growth through connection, conversation, and community.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ready to design the face of a movement?
At MINDSET, we’re building a brand-new start-up for men’s mental wellbeing and personal growth across England and Wales. We’re ditching the "grey and clinical" look for something bold, modern, and high-impact. Now, we need a Volunteer Graphic Designer to give MINDSET the visual edge it deserves.
We’re looking for a creative powerhouse to take our brand and turn it into something men actually want to be part of—from digital campaigns to physical event gear.
The Mission:
- The Visual Storyteller: Create high-impact social media posts, info-graphics, and motion graphics that cut through the noise and tell the MINDSET story.
- The Campaign Builder: Design the assets for our Kickstart MINDSET fundraiser and our volunteer recruitment drives.
- The Physical Presence: Create the "real world" stuff—banners, posters, and flyers that make us stand out at events across the country.
- The Brand Guardian: Help us maintain a consistent, positive, and direct visual identity that screams growth and resilience.
The Vibe:
No boring corporate templates. No stock photos of people looking sad. We want fresh, energetic, and professional design that reflects the strength of the men we support. You’ll have a huge amount of creative freedom to shape how the world sees us from day one.
Sound like you?
If you’ve got a killer portfolio, a sharp eye for detail, and a passion for using your skills to make a massive difference, we want you in the studio.
Design the MINDSET Future
To empower men across England to take charge of their mental wellbeing and personal growth through connection, conversation, and community.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ready to fuel a revolution in men’s growth?
At MINDSET, we’re building a brand-new start-up for men’s mental wellbeing and personal growth across England and Wales. We’ve got the vision and the drive, but to make a lasting impact, we need a Fundraising Lead who knows how to turn a bold mission into a sustainable reality.
We’re looking for a strategic, high-energy volunteer to hunt down opportunities, build powerful partnerships, and lead the charge in securing the resources we need to grow.
The Mission:
- The Grant Hunter: Research and write high-impact applications to secure the funding that builds our foundations.
- The Digital Architect: Launch creative online campaigns—from crowdfunding to viral social giving—that get the public behind us.
- The Power Broker: Build strategic partnerships with businesses, major donors, and companies who want to be part of a real solution for men.
- The Team Captain: Lead and inspire a squad of volunteer fundraisers, giving them the direction they need to smash our targets.
The Vibe:
We’re moving away from the "guilt-trip" style of fundraising. We want someone who sells the vision and the strength of our work. This is a blank canvas for you to build a funding strategy that is as modern and direct as we are.
Sound like you?
If you’re a natural communicator with a sharp eye for opportunities and a passion for men’s self-improvement, let’s get the resources we need to change lives.
Fund the MINDSET Movement
To empower men across England to take charge of their mental wellbeing and personal growth through connection, conversation, and community.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Ready to build the digital nervous system of a movement?
At MINDSET, we’re a brand-new start-up shaking up men’s mental wellbeing across England and Wales. We’re non-clinical, high-energy, and digital-first—which means we need an IT & Tech Lead who can build a slick, seamless infrastructure that just works.
We’re looking for a tech-savvy volunteer to source, set up, and manage our entire digital ecosystem, ensuring our team is connected, secure, and ready to go.
The Mission:
- The Architect: Build and oversee our Google Workspace (emails/drives), CRM, and management platforms for both volunteers and service users.
- The Hardware Pro: Handle our device fleet—accepting delivery, configuring them for the team, and getting them shipped out to the frontline.
- The Support Hub: Be the go-to for troubleshooting and tech support, making sure no one gets slowed down by a glitch.
- The Coach: Partner with our Training Lead to help induct volunteers, making sure they feel confident and "pro" with our systems from day one.
The Vibe:
No legacy systems. No "that’s how we’ve always done it" excuses. You’ll have a blank slate to implement the best tools for the job, creating a modern, efficient tech stack that lets our team focus on changing lives.
Sound like you?
If you’re a systems expert who loves a "clean build" and wants to use your tech skills for a massive cause, let’s get you plugged in.
Power the MINDSET Movement
To empower men across England to take charge of their mental wellbeing and personal growth through connection, conversation, and community.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,
About VoiceAbility
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.
We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.
Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility
Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!
We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!
Volunteer positions currently available in Sunderland
Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
- As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:
- Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
- Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
- Raise concerns
- Keep detailed notes and records
- Make a real difference to someone’s life
Hospital Visitor Volunteer
Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
-
hold drop-in sessions
-
attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
-
share information
-
assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00. You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.
Safeguarding Commitment Statement
VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.
ED&I Statement
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.
VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.
To find out more click “Apply Now”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
If you are over 18 and have been impacted by suicide loss, you could help make a difference.
- Have you been impacted by suicide?
- Do you have a desire to help others?
- Are you comfortable with listening to and supporting people with similar experiences to your own?
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS) is the leading charity providing peer-to-peer support for adults who have been bereaved or impacted by suicide. We believe that no one should face their loss alone, so we create safe spaces across the UK for people to share and process their grief.
We are seeking compassionate volunteers looking to start up a new peer support group in Aberystwyth.
Who are we looking for?
- Over the age of 18.
- Bereaved by suicide over 18 months ago and confident in your own progress. The impacts of a death by suicide are far-reaching - this could have been a family member, friend, colleague, client, or even a stranger.
- Passionate about supporting others in your community.
- Friendly, trustworthy, and approachable, with good active listening skills.
- Respectful, sensitive, and non-judgmental approach to survivors.
- Comfortable in supporting conversations and managing group dynamics.
- Good communication skills – both spoken & written English.
- A commitment to support the group, your team, and the surrounding community.
How do groups work?
Each group is facilitated by a team of three volunteers who have all been bereaved by suicide themselves. Their role is facilitating meetings, group administration, fundraising and communication for the group as a team. All volunteers are provided with full training before they begin the role and receive support from head office throughout their volunteering journey.
SoBS groups usually meet once a month for around 2 hours, and provide people with an opportunity to listen, share, ask questions, and connect with others in a safe and non-judgemental space.
There is no set structure to a meeting – people are free to talk and listen as much or as little as they want. Topics discussed vary from month to month but often include people sharing their story, how they are feeling, what has happened since their last group visit, questions about coroners and discussions about common challenges such as flashbacks, supporting children or facing neighbours. Established groups may occasionally organise guest speakers, go on walks, or arrange craft workshops.
What will you do?
- Facilitate group sessions – meeting survivors, starting off conversations, allowing space for people to talk (if they want to), and looking out for others.
- Administration & communication – managing enquiries from survivors, providing information and signposting where needed, submitting information to the national office.
- Provide signposting to head office, as well as other local charities and services.
What do we provide?
- Robust training and a commitment to development.
- Annual volunteer assembly: talks, forums, guest speakers, celebrations, and socials.
- Peer support from over 500 other volunteers with regular opportunities to meet and share ideas.
- Regular check-ins & catch-up sessions with a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator for your region, and our team in the national office.
- Travel & group expenses for your volunteering role.
- Coverage by SoBS’ Public Liability Insurance whilst you’re carrying out the role.
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide welcomes people of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments that enable volunteers with disabilities to access our opportunities.
As a group facilitator, you will play a vital role in supporting others bereaved by suicide. If you are passionate about supporting others through their grief journey, please do apply.
Our mission is simple - that no one has to go through losing someone to suicide alone. We work to break the isolation and stigmas around suicide loss.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Sift is a UK charity providing specialist support, information and advocacy for people affected by self-harm. We work alongside people who have been directly affected by self-harm at every level of our organisation. We are service-user centred, and ensure our service users are at the heart of everything we do. Following an exciting rebrand and the launch of a new website, we are entering a new phase of growth, visibility and influence.
To support this next chapter, we are expanding our Board of Directors and are seeking professional, values-led individuals who share our commitment to compassion, dignity and meaningful change.
All Board roles are voluntary, unpaid positions. Reasonable expenses such as travel will be reimbursed. Please note that we are only accepting applications through the dedicated application form which can be found on the Volunteering page of our website and will not be accepting CVs sent via email. More information can be found in our downloadable recruitment pack - see our website for details.
The Roles:
Board Secretary
Role Purpose
The Board Secretary helps ensure that Sift is governed with clarity and accountability. This role supports the Board to function well, ensuring that decisions are properly recorded and that governance processes enable the charity’s mission.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare agendas and papers for Board and sub-committee meetings with the Chair and CEO.
- Take clear, accurate minutes that reflect decisions, context and agreed actions.
- With support from the Head of Operations, maintain key governance records, including trustee details, conflicts of interest and policies.
- Support compliance with the charity’s governing document and Charity Commission requirements.
- Assist with timely statutory filings and good governance practice.
- Act as a trusted point of reference for governance-related queries.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Clear, inclusive written communication.
- Respect for confidentiality and sensitive information.
- Commitment to Sift’s mission and lived-experience-informed values.
Desirable:
- Experience in charity governance, company secretarial work or
trustee roles.
- Familiarity with Charity Commission guidance.
Time Commitment:
- 6–8 Board meetings per year, plus preparation time.
- Up to 4 in person meetings in our Bristol based office.
Business Development Lead
Role Purpose
The Business Development Lead supports Sift to grow sustainably, so that more people affected by self-injury can access support. This role brings a strategic lens to income generation, partnerships and opportunity development, grounded in the charity’s values and ethical approach.
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the development and oversight of Sift’s income generation strategy.
- Support exploration of new funding, partnership and collaboration opportunities including the expansion and relaunch of our national in-person and online training programme.
- Offer insight and challenge on fundraising, commercial or social enterprise ideas.
- Network with key players in the mental health and wellbeing field.
- Help assess risk, impact and alignment with Sift’s mission.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Experience in business development, commercial income generation, partnerships or strategy.
- Ability to balance ambition with care and ethical decision-making.
- Strong communication and influencing skills.
- Commitment to SIFT’s mission and lived-experience-informed ethos.
Desirable:
- Experience working with charities or social enterprises.
- Knowledge of trusts, foundations, corporate giving or
commissioning.
Time Commitment:
- 6–8 Board meetings per year, with occasional
input outside meetings.
- Up to 4 in person meetings in our Bristol
based office.
Leadership & Governance Director
Role Purpose
The Leadership & Governance Director helps ensure that Sift’s leadership, culture and governance remain strong, inclusive and fit for purpose. This role supports the Board to be reflective, effective and accountable as the organisation grows.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide oversight and constructive challenge on governance, leadership and culture.
- Support trustee recruitment, induction and ongoing Board development.
- Contribute to succession planning and long-term organisational resilience.
- Ensure governance arrangements evolve appropriately with growth.
- Champion equity, inclusion and lived experience at Board level.
Person Specification
Essential:
- Experience in senior leadership, governance, HR or organisational development.
- Strong understanding of effective Board dynamics.
- Confidence in offering thoughtful challenge and strategic insight.
- Commitment to Sift’s mission and values.
Desirable:
- Experience as a trustee, Chair or committee lead.
- Knowledge of safeguarding and people governance in charities.
Time Commitment:
- 6–8 Board meetings per year, with some additional
involvement as needed.
- Up to 4 in-person meetings at our Bristol based office.
We focus on improving support and knowledge, whilst working to sift out the causes, stigma and misinformation around self-harm.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,
About VoiceAbility
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.
We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.
Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility
Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!
We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!
Volunteer positions currently available in Bedfordshire
Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:
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Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
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Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
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Raise concerns
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Keep detailed notes and records
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Make a real difference to someone’s life
Hospital Visitor Volunteer
Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate. The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.
This role entails weekly visits to either Townsend Court and Poplar Wards (Luton) on Fridays 1-4 or Fountains Court (Bedford) on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
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hold drop-in sessions
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attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
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share information
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assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
Support Session Volunteer
You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities. Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis. The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual.
As a support session volunteer, you might:
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help people have their say when it matters most
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Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
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help people to make complaints and use local services
All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00. You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.
Safeguarding Commitment Statement
VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.
ED&I Statement
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.
VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.
To find out more click “Apply Now”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.