Volunteer roles

Are you passionate about health justice? Medact is seeking a new Chair of the Board to help oversee our governance and support our work.

About Medact

Medact organises the health community to work towards a world in which everyone is able to live healthy, dignified lives, supported by political and economic systems that centre health justice. Our priority work areas are some of the most pressing threats to health and wellbeing, including ending state violence, housing & energy justice, and migrant access to healthcare. Medact seeks systemic solutions to major social problems, and is unafraid to hold decision-makers to account. We launched our new five-year strategy at the end of 2025, embedding our vision for how we win and how we grow.

We’re member-led, and our membership spans a range of people who work in health, including nurses, doctors, midwives and clinical researchers, as well as people from the wider health community. 

We are now looking for a new Chair of our Board of Trustees. If you share our vision and passion, why not join our Board and help us fight for health justice?

About the role

Our Board of Trustees provides guidance, governance and final sign-off on major decisions on behalf of our membership. Trustees are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation in line with the requirements of the Charity Commission. Trustees also contribute to the development of Medact's strategy and participate in a range of other activities to support the Director and staff with our work.

There are four planned board meetings per year, which are hybrid, and it is expected that each Trustee will attend most Board meetings. Trustees are also sometimes asked to give their views or sign off on issues between Board meetings if an issue cannot wait. It is hoped that each Trustee will have the capacity to use their unique skills to support the team more broadly with Medact’s work.

As Chair, you will support the Executive Director and staff to help build on our achievements and realise Medact’s vision. You will work with fellow Trustees to make up a strong and effective Board governing the Charity. 

Acting as a Trustee is a voluntary role but reasonable travel expenses can be paid. 

Who we are looking for

Our current Board brings a broad range of skills, but we recognise that we do not yet reflect the diversity of the health community. There are also specific types of experience and expertise we would like more of on the Board. In particular, we are looking for potential Trustees with one or more of the following attributes:

• Lived experience of an issue that Medact campaigns on, for instance the Hostile Environment, the health impacts of economic or housing injustice, the health impacts of armed conflict or UK security policies

• Experience as a frontline health worker of any sort, preferably current

• Legal and safeguarding expertise

• Fundraising expertise, particularly individual giving or major donor fundraising

• Human resources expertise

As Chair, you will be actively networked within the health community or broader social justice movement and highly experienced in governance or strategic leadership of a charity or NGO. You will have the skills to line-manage the Executive Director. And you will have the ability to advocate on behalf of Medact’s work, as well as helping to build the membership and public image of the organisation. 

We hope all Trustees will: 

• Share our vision for a fairer and safer world, and our analysis of the transformational change needed to get closer to it

• Approach Board discussions and conversations with the team with an open mind, able to listen to and genuinely engage with others’ views

• Display collaborative behaviours which promote harmony and good team working which supports Medact to be an effective, well-governed organisation

Previous experience on a charity board or in another governance role is useful but by no means essential. If you are interested in becoming a Trustee but aren’t sure you have the right skills and experience, or would like an informal conversation with an existing board member before applying, please get in touch.

Timeline

Applications are open until 9am on Monday 9th March. 

We aim to interview candidates in March. Please let us know when applying if you are unavailable during this period.

Lead the future of a well-established charity making a real difference for young people in Plymouth. The Zone Plymouth is seeking a visionary Chair of Trustees to guide strategy, inspire leadership, and shape services that change lives.

The Zone Plymouth is an established and well-respected local charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people aged 13–25. Operating in Plymouth for over 35 years, the charity delivers a range of commissioned services in partnership with other agencies, including sexual health, mental health, homelessness prevention, targeted school-based support for emotional health and substance use, and interagency support for young people in or leaving care.

With 24 staff (17.5 FTE) and 36 volunteers, The Zone has a strong foundation and is well positioned to leverage its strengths to achieve its long-term ambitions. While navigating challenges such as cultural change, income diversification, and skills development, there are exciting opportunities to strengthen leadership, expand funding streams, and raise the charity’s profile across Plymouth. The next two to three years offer substantial potential for growth, where thoughtful planning, decisive action, and collaborative leadership can secure a vibrant, resilient, and enduring future.

About the Role

The Chair of Trustees will provide strategic leadership and guidance to the Board, ensuring it functions effectively, meets its legal and regulatory obligations, and supports the charity to deliver meaningful outcomes for young people in Plymouth. This voluntary role is central to shaping the strategic direction of the charity, fostering a positive culture, and holding the senior team accountable.

Key responsibilities:

• Ensure the Board functions effectively, meetings are led inclusively, and duties are carried out in line with legal and regulatory requirements.

• Lead the Board in setting the charity’s strategic direction, creating a positive organisational culture, and holding staff accountable.

• Support recruitment, induction, and development of Trustees, promoting diversity and inclusion.

• Line-manage and support the CEO, providing constructive challenge and oversight.

• Liaise with the Secretary to arrange meetings, set agendas, and chair meetings to ensure they are well-run and focused.

• Approve the annual operations/business plan, budget, and risk management plan, and monitor progress against these.

• Monitor Board decisions and agreed actions to ensure implementation in a timely manner.

• Build strong, positive relationships with staff, volunteers, beneficiaries, and external stakeholders.

• Act as an ambassador for The Zone, representing its values and interests in the community.

Your Ideal Candidate

Essential Qualities:

• Strong commitment to improving the lives of young people in Plymouth.

• Proven leadership skills, with experience chairing meetings, building consensus, and guiding complex discussions to clear decisions.

• Familiarity with challenges facing young people and small charities, and understanding of trustee responsibilities and charity governance.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to engage with young people, staff, and stakeholders.

• Strategic thinker capable of guiding the delivery of long-term sustainable services.

• Integrity, impartiality, sound judgment, and awareness of equality, diversity, and inclusion objectives.

Desirable Qualities:

• Prior experience as a trustee or board member.

• Knowledge of youth services, education, health, or community development.

• Local connections in Plymouth and surrounding areas.

• Experience of fundraising, advocacy, or partnership working.

The Zone Plymouth is a local charity dedicated to supporting and empowering young people aged 13–25, and has been operating in Plymouth for over 35 years. We provide a range of vital services, including mental health and wellbeing support, sexual health advice, housing advice and homelessness prevention, and general support. Our mission is to help young people lead safe, healthy, and positive lives, providing accessible, non-judgmental support that meets their needs and enables them to thrive.

About the role:
The Zone Plymouth is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. This vital voluntary role provides strategic oversight of the charity’s finances, ensuring robust financial management, transparency, and compliance with charity law and best practice.

The Treasurer will:

• Ensure that The Zone has effective financial management, robust financial controls, and clear financial reporting in line with charity law and best practice.
• Oversee the charity’s financial affairs and ensure they are conducted transparently and sustainably.
• Review the organisation’s budgets and other financial documents and policies, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and present clear explanations to the Board.
• Monitor financial risk and contribute to the charity’s overall risk management framework, including reserves and investment policies.
• Liaise with external auditors/independent examiners and support the preparation and approval of annual accounts.
• Advise the Board on the financial implications of strategic plans, new projects, funding opportunities, and income diversification.
• Support the development of sustainable funding models and contribute to discussions on fundraising and income generation.
• Ensure that financial decision-making reflects The Zone’s values, commitment to best value, and accountability to funders, young people, and the wider community.
• Act as a key member of the trustee team, contributing to effective governance and long-term strategic planning.
• Attend Board meetings (typically 6 per year).

Ideal candidate:
We’re looking for someone with strong financial experience and literacy, sound judgment, and a commitment to The Zone’s mission. Experience as a trustee or in charity governance is desirable but not essential. Local knowledge of Plymouth or the surrounding area is advantageous.

Why join us:
This is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people, contribute to strategic decision-making, and gain experience in charity leadership. You will be part of a supportive trustee team and play a key role in ensuring The Zone’s long-term financial sustainability.

Independent Visitor: Mentor a young person for 2 – 4 hours per month for at least 1 year.

An Independent Visitor is usually an adult volunteer who befriends a young person in care and develops a long-term friendship with them. This often involves helping young people develop new interests, skills and hobbies or going on outings such as going to the cinema, bowling or just walking in the park.
The aim is to provide support, confidence, and fun experiences outside of the young person’s daily environment. If you are looking for a rewarding role with an organisation that makes a difference in young people’s lives, we want to hear from you.

About the role:
•Visit a young person monthly and become a trusted adult friend to them.
•Build a trusting, consistent and positive relationship with the child.
•Provide a child with the opportunity to try new activities (e.g., cinema, bowling, museums, nature walks, or simply having a chat) and spend time with them away from their placement. 
•Provide visit reports and feedback after visits to help us monitor and improve the service.

In return, we offer a range of benefits including:

• Make a real difference – be a positive, stable influence in a young person’s life.

• Have fun and create memories – enjoy activities while building a meaningful bond.

• Gain valuable experience – develop skills in mentoring, communication and young people’s support.

• Access to training and job opportunities – acquire knowledge and experience in a fun setting. 

• Flexible and rewarding – just a few hours a month can change a life!

You will be allocated a budget for each visit for your travel and activity.

Skills:

• Interpersonal Skills – Ability to easily build rapport and identify with young people from diverse backgrounds.

• Communication – Excellent communication skills and good report writing skills.

• Committed – Willing to commit to a child for at least one year. 

• DBS Check – We will carry out safer recruitment checks, and you will be required to have an Enhanced DBS check.

Prisoners Abroad is the only charity supporting British citizens in prison abroad, their families, and people who have returned to the UK after serving a prison sentence overseas.

We run volunteer-led support groups for family members of British prisoners that are currently detained abroad, and have a vacancy for a Family Support Group volunteer in York and the North East. The support groups may be a mixture of in person and on Zoom.

We are looking for someone with an empathy for our work, who can provide a welcoming and friendly environment for family members who have been affected by overseas imprisonment and who will enjoy being part of our team to deliver our family support work.

Join a high-performing and forward-looking governing board to play a vital role in shaping the future direction of Farnborough College of Technology.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 2nd March 2026

Location: Farnborough, Hampshire

About Farnborough College of Technology

Based in Hampshire, Farnborough College of Technology (FCoT) focuses on providing industry-relevant education and training for school leavers and adults, aiming to equip them with skills for employment through A Levels, T Levels, Apprenticeships, Degrees and vocational courses.

With a key emphasis and commitment to student success, community engagement and technical excellence, the College matches modern facilities, high-quality education and experienced staff to prepare all learners for their future careers, supporting local industry needs, which aligns with employer demands and supports local economic growth.

Farnborough College of Technology is recognised for its empowering outcomes, dynamic training facilities and industry-experienced teachers, offering a wide range of courses for both school leavers and adults.

Farnborough College of Technology is more than just an educational institution; it’s a place where creativity, innovation and career growth flourish. With an aim to make an impact, inspire and develop the next generation of professionals, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in their careers. It’s a place that excels in creating the best learning environments, delivering the highest quality of education and work experiences.

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-performing and forward-looking governing board and to play a vital role in shaping the future direction of Farnborough College of Technology.

As a Governor, you will help guide the College during a period of growth and momentum, supporting our ambition to deliver outstanding, relevant and impactful education for students across our local and wider communities.

As a collective, the governing board is responsible for overseeing the quality of the services the College provides to students and the local community. This includes approving and monitoring the College’s annual budget and ensuring strong governance, accountability and strategic direction.

Our Board brings together people from a wide range of professional backgrounds, offering valuable industry, sector and specialist expertise. New Governors are expected to become members of the governing board and to serve on at least one committee, aligned with their skills, experience and interests.

In addition to attending scheduled meetings throughout the year, Governors are encouraged to engage fully with the College. This includes opportunities to work alongside senior leaders, visit our campuses and meet students, apprentices and staff across different departments, helping Governors gain first-hand insight into the College community.

Who we are looking for

Farnborough College of Technology is seeking Governors who are passionate about education and motivated to support our continued success for the benefit of students, employers and the wider community.

We are particularly interested in applications from experienced financial professionals, including individuals with strong technical accounting knowledge and the ability to oversee financial performance and ensure long-term financial sustainability. Candidates may come from a variety of sectors, including education, the public sector, charities, or corporate organisations.

Above all, we are looking for individuals who share our mission and values, are enthusiastic about Farnborough College of Technology and are committed to making a meaningful contribution to our future.

Peridot Partners and Farnborough College of Technology are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 2nd March 2026.

An Independent Visitor is a positive adult role model who provides support and friendship to a young person in care. You will enjoy fun activities together which will give the young person unforgettable memories and experiences. Your consistent friendship will help the young person raise their aspirations, learn new skills, build self-esteem, confidence, and resilience.

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. You do not need any formal qualifications to become a volunteer, but it is helpful if you have some knowledge and practical experience of involvement with children and young people.

Children and young people who are looked after need an adult who has time to spend with them, take them on activities and be someone they can talk to and trust. You can fit your visits in around your own time and work commitments. We only ask that you can commit to a few hours once per month for a minimum of 2 years. 

We urgently require volunteers as an Independent Visitor for children and young people in care. As a volunteer you will:

• Have fun, take young people on outings and maybe share a hobby, sport or interest.
• Offer support and a listening ear and be a positive influence in a young person's life and help build self-esteem and confidence.

You do not need any special qualifications

We are looking for reliable and dependable people from all walks of life

We will provide training and on going support.

Job Type: Volunteer

Pay: £30.00 expenses limit per visit 

Schedule:

• Weekdays in school holidays
• Weekend availability needed

Age: 18 years and over?

As part of the recruitment process you will need to complete an application form, interview, enhanced DBS check, references and digital risk assessment.

We offer a full support package including induction training, online mandatory training and one to one support by your IV Coordinator throughout your volunteer journey.

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. 

Our values:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate

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. 

Our values:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate

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. 

Our values:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health and safety measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

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. 

Our values:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate

It’s shaping up to be a busy year at Locate International, with a lot of important stories to tell. We need people who can help us tell them – and play a huge part in resolving cases.

We’re looking for more people to join as volunteer media officers – this will involve writing press releases for our missing and unidentified appeals, giving interviews and forging partnerships with broadcasters and publishers.

The right people will be able to write well, will ideally have a journalistic background, and will have experience dealing with different media outlets and their demands. But they must also be able to work with sensitivity and care.

We meet for an hour every Tuesday night on Zoom, and volunteers are expected to contribute an average of six hours a week.

Do you know your FYP from your CTR?

Can you build and manage a subreddit without summoning the mods?

And when we say “Shorts”, do you think watch time, hooks & retention - not what you’re packing for your next holiday?

Locate International are looking to expand our Media Team on a completely voluntary basis, with an average time commitment of around six hours per week.

Founded in 2019, we assist families in locating loved ones from unsolved missing persons cases and in identifying unknown deceased individuals.

By recruiting three volunteers - each specialising in TikTok, YouTube or Reddit - we can spread more breadcrumbs & ensure every case we take on has the best possible chance of being solved.

Our Media Team is a close-knit group of volunteers who meet via Zoom every Tuesday evening at 7pm (for one hour). Attendance at these meetings is important so we can support our Investigation Teams, plan appeals, and create a clear plan of action for the weeks ahead. We appreciate that availability can vary, but we ask that you attend as many sessions as possible to stay connected with the team and cases.

You will champion your platform - posting, monitoring engagement, and coming up with fresh ideas to help raise awareness of our cases. Sometimes this will be broad-reach content; other times it will involve niching down to target specific audiences who may hold vital missing pieces of the puzzle.

Everyone who volunteers with Locate International shares the belief that everybody deserves a name, and no family should endure the uncertainty of a missing loved one.

What we’re looking for:

TikTok Content Creator

Someone who understands trends, who can hook viewers in the first few seconds and encourage comments and sharing. You must be confident editing content directly within TikTok.

YouTube Content Creator

Someone who can create engaging, informative videos that encourage interaction. You should be confident with professional video editing, understand branding, and know how to craft compelling titles and optimise tags. Viral potential is a big plus.

Reddit Content Creator

A significant percentage of our website traffic comes from Reddit, yet we don’t currently have an official presence there. If you understand Reddit etiquette, the do’s and don’ts, and what’s involved in creating and managing subreddits - we need you.

What’s in it for you:

• Being part of a large, supportive team of dedicated volunteers.
• Working within a creative, passionate Media Team that encourages thinking outside the box.
• A regular one-hour Zoom meeting on Tuesday evenings, joining the team as often as possible to collaborate on live cases.
• The satisfaction of using your skills to make a meaningful difference to families & communities worldwide.

If you feel you have what it takes to be one of the volunteers we're looking for, please get in touch with your experience, expertise, and what you can bring to the Media Team.