885 On-site volunteer roles

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: 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.

Key responsibilities: Till volunteer

Being a till volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop volunteer, however, when you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

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

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

Walk the Plank is looking to welcome new Trustees to our Board. 

We're a Salford-based award-winning outdoor arts company with a 30+ year history of creating artistically ambitious work in public spaces, across the UK and internationally. As a National Portfolio Organisation of Arts Council England, we connect with audiences in bold, unexpected ways, and we want our governance to reflect the people, places and ideas behind that work. 

We are looking for Trustees who will help Walk the Plank to grow, thrive and succeed, contributing to our processes and thinking, challenging us and supporting our strategic direction, working alongside our Board, Senior Management Team to help deliver our vision. 

We're interested in people with experience in the areas of digital innovation and artistic practice, though we're equally open to a broader range of skills and backgrounds. We're particularly keen to hear from individuals from the global majority, as part of our commitment to broadening representation and strengthening diverse perspectives within our governance.

What's involved 

• 4 Board meetings per year, held at Cobden Works or online 

• Approximate time commitment of 9 hours per year of meetings, plus reading / prep. Trustees are also encouraged to attend our annual Company Conference which happens once per year at Cobden Works, and to try to see some of our work each year.

• This is a voluntary role; any reasonable expenses are covered, and we can pay for access costs in addition, if required.

Walk the Plank is committed to equal opportunities, and is Disability Confident Committed Employer, a Living Wage Employer, a Mental Health Aware Employer and a Creative Access Employer Partner. 

We value a diverse team and welcome applications from all sectors of the community as part of our aim to reflect the diversity of our audiences. 

You must already be a registered HCP to apply for this role.

No one should die because they needed first aid and didn’t get it. St John Ambulance teaches people first aid so they can be the difference between life and death, and you can help us do this.

We are seeking Event Paramedics to respond to and manage emergency calls/incidents whilst attending events. At all times provide specialist, clinical, social and holistic care to undertake clinical assessment and interventions those individuals in the pre-hospital environment, which may include stadia, concerts, motorsports, road races etc. This may encompass working on both ambulances / FRV’s and within treatment units as required.

Successful candidates will be registered Paramedics with the HCPC and be able to provide evidence of CPD activity within the previous 12 months.

The closing date for this role is: 25/10/2026

Do you use technology on a regular basis for work, study, or daily life? If so, it is likely that you have the needed skills for this role! Help people to stay connected, improve their financial health, employability, and learn how to access much needed services and resources online! You will make a positive difference to bridging the digital divide, empowering others to gain knowledge and confidence in using technology!

These sessions will take place on Fridays between 10:30 - 1:15pm!

What you will be doing

• Supporting service users to gain digital skills and knowledge on a computer, tablet and smart phone via one to one or in small group sessions
• Supporting service users to use digital apps, emails, search the internet, online shopping and set up online accounts
• Supporting service users to learn the skills to keep in touch with family and friends, such a video call and messaging
• Support individuals to agree and aspire on the steps/ goals they would like to achieve in the sessions
• Lead on the logistics and organisation of the sessions alongside the staff team
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback, and report any concerns to the staff team

The skills you need

• Confident using digital skills
• Willingness and interest in facilitating one to one and group session on basic digital skills
• Good communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

The role in a nutshell:

To support the provision of short-term, structured befriending support for older people across Northumberland, to support individuals to achieve defined personal goals.

What will you be doing?

•Working To Targets: Sit down with your match during week one to figure out what they want to achieve (e.g., walking to the local shop alone, learning to use video calls, or joining a nearby art class).

•Building a Plan: Break that big goal down into small, weekly steps that feel safe and manageable.

•Growing Confidence: Go along with them to new places or groups until they feel confident enough to go by themselves.

•Cheering Progress: Keep track of the small wins each week and remind them of how far they have come.

•Planning the Graduation: Celebrate their success at the end of the 24 weeks having helped them transition smoothly to doing things completely on their own.

How would you be supported in this role?

You will be fully supported throughout your volunteering. This will include a clear induction, training to help you feel confident in the role, and ongoing guidance from a named member of staff. You will also have regular check-ins, opportunities to ask questions, and support with any concerns that come up. The aim is to make sure you feel prepared, valued and able to provide safe, friendly and meaningful support to older people across Northumberland. 

The role in a nutshell:

You will work closely with an older person to help them set personal goals, build their confidence, and take practical steps to reconnect with their local community.

What will you be doing?

You will meet the older person you are matched with for 1 to 2+ hours a week over a period of up to 6 months to support them in working towards their goals. Depending on their individual action plan, you may:

• Visit them at home: Provide a regular, supportive social connection while helping them identify steps to overcome isolation.
• Act as a Community Connector: Accompany them on short walks, meet in a local café, or help them access local social groups, libraries, or physical activities.
• Support Goal Setting: Gently encourage them to build positive, sustainable connections and regain independence after a life challenge (such as a bereavement, illness, or hospital stay).
• Manage Boundaries and Endings: Work with the client to understand the time-limited nature of the support and help them prepare for the end of the 6-month intervention.
• Keep Accurate Records: Keep track of the client's progress, take brief notes after each session, and share weekly updates with your Programme Coordinator.

How would you be supported in this role?

We value our volunteers immensely and want to ensure you feel confident and safe in your role. You can expect:

• Comprehensive Training: A full induction and access to mandatory eLearning modules.
• Ongoing Supervision: Regular check-ins with your dedicated Programme Coordinator, plus access to volunteer meet-ups to share ideas and overcome barriers together.
• Clear Boundaries: A clearly defined voluntary role within the organisation with robust out-of-hours and emergency support procedures.
• Reimbursement: Agreed out-of-pocket expenses (such as local travel) will be fully reimbursed.
• References: We are happy to provide references for you after 6 months of active volunteering.

The role in a nutshell:

Short Term befriending role

What will you be doing?

• Visit an older person in their own home on a regular basis for up to 6 months.

• Provide Telephone support for up to 6 months. 

• Provide a client centred approach.

• Provide company to alleviate isolation.

• Assist clients to learn about other activities that can alleviate isolation.

• Alert Age UK North Cumbria Line Managers of any issues and problems the Client may need assistance with.

• Participating in catch-ups and support sessions as required. 

• Carrying out tasks according to our Policies and Procedures (particularly Confidentiality, Equal Opportunities, Health and Safety, and Safeguarding)

• Working as part of a team and with other Age UK North Cumbria staff and volunteers

How would you be supported in this role?

Training will be provided for this role as necessary and may include:

• Induction  

• Health and Safety Awareness 

• Safeguarding vulnerable adults and Dementia awareness e-learning 

• Basic First Aid

• Lone working policy

The volunteering activity

We are looking for volunteers to help raise awareness of the Mental Health SPA across the communities we serve.

Volunteers will support the project by distributing leaflets and posters to community venues including GP surgeries, cafés, supermarkets, libraries, community centres, faith centres and other places where local people regularly meet. By increasing awareness of the service, volunteers will help ensure that people know where to turn if they, or someone they know, are experiencing a mental health crisis or need support.

Considerations:

This role involves travelling within the local community to distribute promotional materials.
Some lone working may be involved; therefore we recommend volunteers work in pairs where possible.
Volunteers should seek permission before displaying or leaving promotional materials at any venue 

The volunteering activity

We are looking for volunteers to help raise awareness of the Mental Health SPA across the communities we serve.

Volunteers will support the project by distributing leaflets and posters to community venues including GP surgeries, cafés, supermarkets, libraries, community centres, faith centres and other places where local people regularly meet. By increasing awareness of the service, volunteers will help ensure that people know where to turn if they, or someone they know, are experiencing a mental health crisis or need support.

Considerations:

This role involves travelling within the local community to distribute promotional materials.
Some lone working may be involved; therefore we recommend volunteers work in pairs where possible.
Volunteers should seek permission before displaying or leaving promotional materials at any venue 

The role in a nutshell:

We are a local, independent charity working for a fairer later life in Oxfordshire. We challenge ageism, tackle inequality, ensure older people and unpaid carers are seen, heard, included & valued.

What will you be doing?

In this role, you'll build a trusting relationship with an individual aged 50+ through regular face-to-face visits, committing 2–3 hours per week over 24 weeks. You'll listen without judgement, offering reassurance and support while helping them identify and work towards personal goals. You’ll support someone to:

• Set a goal and identify something they’d like to achieve.

• Make a plan and break their goal into smaller, realistic steps.

• Try new activities, attend local groups or access services.

• Build confidence and promote independence.

How would you be supported in this role?

Regardless of the role you choose, you would be supported by a Volunteer Coordinator whom will provide you with ongoing guidance and support throughout your service.

We provide an induction and relevant training for your service to enable you to gain confidence in delivering your role within the community. 

The role in a nutshell:

You will meet an older person you’ve been matched with once a week up to a maximum period of 6 months to support them in working towards their goals.

What will you be doing?

 Depending on their needs, you may:

• Visit them at home

• Go for a walk

• Meet in a local community space, such as a library or a café

• Help them access local groups or services

• Encourage them to build positive and sustainable connections

You will keep track of their progress and share updates with your Volunteer Lead.

How would you be supported in this role?

As a Friendship Companion, you will:

• Attend an induction session

• Complete essential online training, including goal setting and safeguarding

• Receive support from a dedicated Volunteer Lead

• Have agreed out‑of‑pocket expenses reimbursed. 

The role in a nutshell:

Age NI is looking for Enabling Connections Volunteers across the Northern Trust area and Belfast Trust area to provide companionship, encouragement and practical support to older people.

What will you be doing?

As an Enabling Connections Volunteer, you will:

•Be matched with an older person in your local area
•Meet weekly to provide companionship and a listening ear
•Encourage and support them to achieve personal goals
•Help them build confidence and independence
•Explore local activities, groups and opportunities together
•Signpost to local services and support where appropriate
•Keep in touch with the Enabling Connections Coordinator.

Flexible Volunteering
The role is designed to fit around your availability, making it ideal for people with work, family or other commitments.

Where Will I Volunteer?

Support may take place:
•In the older person's home
•In local community settings
•While attending activities or groups together.

All support will be guided by the older person's goals and interests.

How would you be supported in this role?

When you volunteer with Age NI, you'll receive:

•Full induction and ongoing training
•Ongoing support from the Enabling Connections Coordinator
•Regular volunteer meetings and supervision
•Reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.

The role in a nutshell:

At Age UK Bolton, we know that a simple conversation can change everything. This is more than companionship, it’s about walking alongside someone as they reconnect with their community and themselves.

What will you be doing?

You’ll support both the person and their goals, including:

Building a meaningful connection
•Spend time getting to know the person and what matters to them
•Offer friendly conversation, encouragement and companionship
•Create a space where they feel comfortable, heard and respected

Supporting positive steps forward
•Help them identify and work towards personal goals
•Encourage confidence in trying new things or reconnecting with others
•Support access to local groups, services or community activities 

Flexible, person-centred support
•Meet in ways that suit the individual — at home, in the community, or out for a walk
•Go at their pace, adapting support to their needs and preferences 

Working as part of a team
•Share updates with your coordinator so support stays consistent
•Reflect on progress and celebrate achievements, however small

How would you be supported in this role?

You won’t be doing this alone

We’ll support you every step of the way, including:
•A full induction and training (including safeguarding and goal setting)
•Ongoing support from a dedicated coordinator
•Opportunities for supervision and guidance
•Reimbursement of agreed out-of-pocket expenses 

The role in a nutshell:

As a Befriending Volunteer on the Enabling Connections project, you will help Age UK reduce loneliness and isolation by building a short-term but meaningful relationship with an older person.

What will you be doing?

Depending on the needs of the older person you're matched with, you may:

• Visit them at home

• Meet in a local community space, such as a library or cafe

• Help them access local groups and services

• Encourage them to build positive and sustainable connections

How would you be supported in this role?

In addition to your induction, you will be supported by our Enabling Connections project coordinator.