Volunteer roles

Trustee - Treasurer

About us: Could you help us get millions of separated children Back to Family?

Orphanages don’t protect children, they harm them. Put simply: the last thing an orphanage can provide is the first thing a child needs - someone to love them. 

Right now, 5.4 million children around the world are locked away in orphanages — even though over 80% of them are not orphans. Orphanages expose children to abuse and trafficking, and physical and psychological trauma that can last a lifetime. A century of evidence shows that the bond between a child and their family is what every child needs to grow, thrive and be safe. 

The role

As Treasurer you will chair our Finance, Risk and Audit Committee and act as the Board’s lead voice on financial matters. Working closely with our CEO, COO and executive team, you will help ensure HHC remains financially resilient and well-governed as we approach our ambitious 2030 goal by:

• Finance — overseeing our planning, budgeting and reporting processes; guiding the Board in approving annual accounts; advising on the financial implications of strategic decisions; and liaising with our external auditors.
• Risk management — providing oversight of our internal controls, financial control framework and risk register, and ensuring appropriate insurance and anti-fraud arrangements are in place.
• Governance — chairing the Finance, Risk and Audit Committee, leading the Board’s duty to ensure proper financial stewardship, and supporting compliance with Charity Commission and other regulatory requirements.

Who we are looking for

You will be a qualified accountant with strong commercial awareness and the ability to translate complex financial information clearly for a Board audience. Beyond the technical qualifications, we are looking for someone who brings:

• Experience of organisational risk management and internal controls
• A solid understanding of charity governance, trusteeship and the legal duties of a trustee
• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to non-finance colleagues and stakeholders
• The leadership skills to chair a committee and bring people together around shared goals

Above all, you will share our belief that every child deserves to grow up in the love and safety of a family, and our commitment to driving that change with courage, integrity, excellence and being deeply human. 

What we offer

This is a voluntary, unremunerated role. In return you will:

• Engage with our work across nine countries 
• Contribute to systemic change at global scale, helping to shape the future for separated children worldwide
• Be part of an organisation approaching its 2030 goal — a worldwide consensus that orphanages have no place in any child's life

Time commitment

The role requires approximately 12–18 days per year, comprising:

• Four Board meetings per year (in person, London or virtual)
• Four to five Finance, Risk and Audit Committee meetings per year (virtual)
• An annual two-day awayday, which may take place in one of our countries of operation
• Additional time for preparation, ad hoc queries and induction in your first year

The initial term of office is three years, with the possibility of two further three-year terms by mutual agreement.

Closing Date: The final cut off for applications is 5 pm BST Monday 22nd June 2026 so please get in touch if you have the right skills, experience and passion for our cause. 

To apply, please upload your CV and a brief covering letter indicating why you are interested in becoming a Trustee and Treasurer; why you believe your skills, experience, your values and match the requirements of this key trustee position.

Diversity

Hope and Homes for Children actively encourages diversity, equity and inclusion, and we look to recruit a diverse range of people to reflect the communities in which we live. We are keen to see a diverse membership of both the trustee body and committees as we believe diversity brings us closer to our mission of eliminating orphanages.

Thank you for considering this role. Every child deserves to grow up in the love and safety of a family

REF-228 796

Volunteer role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
 
Location: Remote (Poole-based charity; meetings held online/hybrid)
Time commitment: Around 4 to 6 hours per month on average, with extra time needed around budgeting and year-end accounts
Term: 1 year, eligible for re-election annually
Board meetings: Approximately 6 per year (online/hybrid)
 
What you’ll do
You’ll join the Board as Trustee Treasurer and help provide clear, steady oversight of the charity’s financial governance. Working with fellow trustees and any staff or external support, you’ll help ensure the charity’s finances are well managed, transparent, and aligned with its purpose and values.
 
You’ll help the board make confident decisions so the charity can sustain and grow its work. You don’t need prior trustee experience if you can offer financial insight, integrity, and a willingness to contribute at board level.
 
If you’re an experienced Treasurer, or you’d like this to be your first trustee role, we’d love to hear from you.
 
Key responsibilities
You’ll help the Board to:

• Maintain oversight of financial affairs and ensure appropriate controls and procedures are in place
• Ensure proper accounting records are maintained, and resources are safeguarded and used in line with the charity’s purposes
• Review income, expenditure and cash flow, and flag risks or concerns early
• Provide oversight of payroll processes and contractor payments, supporting segregation of duties where possible
• Support key financial policies such as reserves (and investment policy where relevant)
• Lead or support annual budget-setting, monitor performance against budget, and support sustainability and longer-term planning
• Ensure the Board receives clear financial information and present updates at trustee meetings to support informed decision-making
• Oversee annual accounts, liaise with the independent examiner (or auditors if applicable), and support timely Charity Commission submissions
• Act as the Board’s lead on financial governance matters

 
What you’ll get from the role

• A full trustee induction, plus support to get up to speed on the charity’s finances and current processes
• The chance to make a real difference behind the scenes, helping the Board make confident decisions
• Opportunities to develop your governance experience and deepen your financial oversight skills
• A welcoming board environment where constructive challenge is valued

 
This role will suit you if you
 
Essential

• Have knowledge of (or affinity with) Christian Science and/or faith-based community work and the ability to represent the charity’s purpose and values appropriately and sensitively
• Can read, interpret and explain budgets, management accounts and cash flow to non-finance trustees
• Bring integrity, sound judgement, and the confidence to ask the right questions
• Work well with others and can offer constructive challenge and support
• Can commit the time and follow through on agreed actions

 
Desirable

• Charity finance or trustee experience
• Accounting/bookkeeping/controls/risk background
• Experience working with an independent examiner/auditor
• Familiarity with charity reporting (including SORP awareness)
• Experience chairing or contributing to a finance committee

 
About us
You’ll be supporting a Poole-based registered charity (England & Wales) that serves as a central resource for Christian Science literature and activities. You don’t need to be a Christian Scientist to apply, but you should be comfortable supporting and representing the charity’s purpose and values as a trustee.
 
Inclusion and accessibility
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and life experiences. If you need adjustments at any stage of the process, please tell us what would help.
 
Safer recruitment, eligibility and declarations
We’re committed to safeguarding and to taking reasonable steps to protect everyone who comes into contact with the charity. Appointments will be subject to proportionate safer recruitment checks and declarations, which may include references and verification of identity.
 
This includes confirmation that you are not disqualified from acting as a charity trustee under the Charity Commission’s automatic disqualification rules, and a conflict of interest declaration with agreement on how any conflicts will be managed.
 
A DBS check will only be considered where it is legally eligible and proportionate to the activities of the role.
 
How to apply
Please submit your CV along with a statement of up to one page explaining your interest in supporting the charity’s purpose and values in a Trustee capacity, and any relevant experience.

• Closing date: 23 June 2026 (we review applications as they’re received)
• Interviews: Remote via Microsoft Teams

Note: We reserve the right to close early if we appoint before the closing date.
 
REF-228 788

Are you driven by purpose over profit, and motivated to use words responsibly to shape public understanding?

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is seeking a Founding Volunteer Creative Copywriter / Campaign Storyteller to help define how our movement speaks — with clarity, courage, and care.

This is not a commercial copywriting role.

It is a truth-led storytelling role.

Our C.I.C. exists to confront and expose the realities of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), centre survivor truth and accountability, support young people into economic empowerment, and build community-owned, open-source systems that serve people rather than capital.

We are:

• Values-led
• Anti-capitalist
• Community-driven
• Decentralised by design

We are not here to produce promotional content for clicks alone. We are here to communicate truth responsibly — building trust, inviting participation, and ensuring survivor-centred work is represented with dignity and purpose.

This role offers the opportunity to shape how a movement speaks in public spaces.

About the Role

As our Founding Creative Copywriter / Campaign Storyteller, you will craft clear, compelling, and ethically grounded written content to support digital campaigns, fundraising initiatives, and community engagement during our build and early growth phase.

You will not inherit a finished brand voice or messaging system.

You will help shape and define it.

Your work will translate complex and sensitive issues into accessible, responsible communication. You will help move people toward meaningful action — not passive consumption — while ensuring that every piece of content reflects safeguarding commitments and cultural integrity.

This role blends creativity with strategic thinking. You must be comfortable writing across multiple formats, collaborating with campaign teams, and refining messaging based on feedback and insight.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential / Highly Valued Experience

• Strong writing skills for digital audiences across multiple formats.
• Demonstrable experience in copywriting, storytelling, or campaign messaging.
• Ability to write about serious and sensitive topics without sensationalism or harm.
• Understanding of how language influences trust, behaviour, and decision-making.
• Experience producing written content across platforms.
• Ability to adapt tone and messaging for different audiences and channels.
• Willingness to work within trauma-informed, safeguarding, and ethical communication frameworks.
• Ability to collaborate with designers, analysts, and campaign leads.
• Confidence receiving and applying feedback.
• Equivalent professional or voluntary experience accepted.

Desirable / Can Be Developed

• Experience working in non-profit, CIC, or community-led organisations.
• Experience supporting fundraising or awareness campaigns.
• Familiarity with retention, lifecycle, or supporter journey design.
• Experience working in safeguarding-led environments.
• Ability to adjust storytelling strategy based on performance data and feedback.

Qualifications

Formal qualifications are not required.

Equivalent practical experience in creative copywriting or campaign storytelling is highly valued.

Main Responsibilities / Key Duties

• Design, develop, and deliver written and narrative content for digital campaigns during the build and early growth phase.
• Create campaign copy across platforms, including social media, website pages, and email campaigns.
• Develop core messaging frameworks for fundraising, awareness, and engagement campaigns.
• Shape story-led approaches that centre survivor dignity, accuracy, and consent.
• Produce scripts, story outlines, and narrative structures for:
  • Video content
  • Audio or podcast material
  • Multimedia campaigns
• Adapt messaging for different audiences, platforms, and campaign objectives.
• Work closely with designers, analysts, and campaign leads to align story with strategy.
• Ensure all written content aligns with safeguarding policies, ethical standards, and tone guidelines.
• Maintain consistency of voice and language across digital marketing outputs.
• Contribute creative ideas for campaigns, themes, and story-driven initiatives.
• Review and refine copy based on performance insights, feedback, and learning.
• Support campaign testing and iteration through evidence-informed storytelling.
• Flag potential safeguarding, reputational, or ethical risks within content.
• Help define and document the C.I.C.’s written voice and storytelling principles.
• Support the development of scalable, sustainable content practices not dependent on single individuals.

What You Gain

• Founding-level experience in creative copywriting and campaign storytelling.
• Strategic exposure to values-led communications and safeguarding-centred messaging.
• Leadership insight into managing sensitive information responsibly.
• Direct contribution to C.I.C. sustainability and long-term impact.
• Opportunity to help define the voice of a survivor-led movement.
• Priority consideration for future paid roles as the C.I.C. scales.

This Role Is Not Suitable If You:

• Prefer low-responsibility volunteer work.
• Prefer writing purely promotional or commercial content.
• Are seeking short-term portfolio pieces without commitment.
• Are uncomfortable engaging with difficult or emotional subject matter.
• Prefer working without collaboration, feedback, or safeguarding frameworks.

Help support inspiring trekkers as they take on 13 or 26 miles to raise vital funds for dementia.

 

Trekking a marathon or half-marathon is no mean feat so we need volunteers just like you, to help give our trekkers as much support as possible on the day. This could be a cup of tea at one of our rest stops, a friendly word of encouragement on the route, or a triumphant cheer across the finish line.

As part of our volunteer crew, you’ll help give trekkers the encouragement and all important boost they need to keep going strong. We can guarantee that it means the world to our trekkers.

No experience needed, just bring your energy and enthusiasm! There is something for everyone, with roles based in the event hub, rest stops and along the route.

What’s involved

· Cheering trekkers and offering encouragement

· Directing trekkers along the route

· Supporting with selling merchandise

· Handing out well-deserved medals and glasses of fizz

What you'll receive

· A fun, feel-good, and rewarding experience

· The chance to make a real impact in just a few hours

· A full role briefing and volunteer manager to support you

· Travel expenses (up to 50miles)

Ready to join our amazing volunteer team? Sign up today and help change the lives of people living with dementia right now and in the future!

Volunteers over the age of 14 are welcome, but if you are under 16 you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Help support inspiring trekkers as they take on 13 or 26 miles to raise vital funds for dementia.

 

Trekking a marathon or half-marathon is no mean feat so we need volunteers just like you, to help give our trekkers as much support as possible on the day. This could be a cup of tea at one of our rest stops, a friendly word of encouragement on the route, or a triumphant cheer across the finish line.

As part of our volunteer crew, you’ll help give trekkers the encouragement and all important boost they need to keep going strong. We can guarantee that it means the world to our trekkers.

No experience needed, just bring your energy and enthusiasm! There is something for everyone, with roles based in the event hub, rest stops and along the route.

What’s involved

· Cheering trekkers and offering encouragement

· Directing trekkers along the route

· Supporting with selling merchandise

· Handing out well-deserved medals and glasses of fizz

What you'll receive

· A fun, feel-good, and rewarding experience

· The chance to make a real impact in just a few hours

· A full role briefing and volunteer manager to support you

· Travel expenses (up to 50miles)

Ready to join our amazing volunteer team? Sign up today and help change the lives of people living with dementia right now and in the future!

Volunteers over the age of 14 are welcome, but if you are under 16 you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

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! 

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: 

• help people have their say when it matters most
• Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
• 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”.

Communications Team Lead (Volunteer)

We are seeking a creative and experienced Communications Team Lead to play a vital role in raising awareness of the mission of Bounds Green Food Bank and drive donations. They will be responsible for leading a team of volunteers and assisting the team in coming up with creative ways to spread the word of the food bank.
 

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 4,600 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items to build a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people who find themselves in a crisis situation where they need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

The role: 

• Create and lead on communication campaigns and initiatives to raise funds, recruit volunteers and promote our impact

• Manage a fantastic Communications Team of remote volunteers with specific roles (social media, website management, business partnership, graphics and community liaison), providing guidance and managing workload

• Work closely with the Fundraising Lead to create effective fundraising campaigns through newsletters, social media, flyers, events and our website.

• Liaise with the other team leads via a group chat and occasional team meetings, staying up to date with changes across the charity and providing input from the Comms Team

Person specification: 

• Previous experience in marketing, communications, or related fields preferred.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage, motivate and inspire a team of volunteers.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits:

• Gain valuable experience in marketing and non-profit leadership.

• Make a meaningful impact on the fight against hunger in the community.

• Develop professional skills and expand your network.

• Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!

Please note this is an unpaid position - the food bank is completely run by volunteers

As an Object Handling Volunteer, you will engage visitors with objects from our Object Handling Collection. These are objects similar to those displayed in the museum that visitors can pick up and examine. From Kodak brownie cameras and magic lantern slides, to optical toys and Gameboys, hands‑on encounters ignite curiosity and bring to life the story of how sound and vision technologies impact our lives.

By engaging visitors with our Object Handling Collection, you will spark conversations and develop visitors’ interest in the museum’s collections. Along the way, you’ll develop your understanding of visitor experience and museum learning, while sharing your enthusiasm for historical and STEM stories with visitors of all ages. You’ll also be a friendly point of contact for anyone wanting to know more about the museum and what’s on. Full training will equip you to handle objects with care, and learn and share engaging information.

By facilitating safe, accessible object handling, you’ll enrich the visitor experience and inspire our visitors.

This role will operate 7 days a week during school holidays, starting with the upcoming summer break (Sat 18 July-Sun 30 Aug), then weekends only during term time. A rota will be made on a rolling basis based on everyone’s availability and preferences.

In this role you will:

• Become familiar with objects from our Object Handling Collection
• Use objects from the handling collection to initiate conversations with our visitors about sound and vision technologies and how they impact our lives
• Signpost visitors to related content to explore further around our museum and galleries.
• Work with our Object Handling Collection in a safe manner for visitors and yourself
• Answer general enquiries and act as a friendly point of contact for our visitors

What you’ll bring to the role: 
This role is perfect for people who:

• Are friendly, approachable and enjoy conversing with a wide range of museum visitors
• Have an interest in our museum collections and themes
• Enjoy learning new information and sharing your passion and/or knowledge with others

It would be good if you:

• Have an appreciation of what good customer service looks like
• Are proactive and are happy to perform tasks independently

What you’ll get from volunteering:
We want to ensure you have a rewarding experience with us. This means:

• Meeting new people with similar interests
• Gaining valuable experience in a working environment
• Perks such as free cinema tickets
• References on request

Key dates:

• All applicants must be available to attend our Object Handling Recruitment Event on Saturday 27 June, 10.30-12.30.

If you are offered the role, you must then attend the volunteer induction and role training.

• New volunteer induction: Saturday 4 July, 10.00-13.00
• Role training: Saturday 11 July, 10.00-13.00

Additional Information:

• To volunteer in this role, you must be 18 or over. 
• If successful, we’ll request a basic criminal record check for you. We’ll arrange and process this for you and will cover all the costs. Any issues raised in the check will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• We are legally required to ensure all volunteers from overseas have the right to volunteer in the UK, so please check your visa before applying. SMG is unable to act as a sponsor organisation if you do not have a visa that allows you to volunteer.
• We reimburse out-of-pocket travel expenses of up to £6.00 per day.

Volunteer with the MS Society Help Hub

Do you want to make a real difference to people affected by MS? 

Our MS Help Hub is a national service that supports around 20,000 enquiries every year, providing trusted information and emotional support to people living with MS, their families, friends and carers. 

We’re looking for compassionate and supportive volunteers to join our national team and help ensure no one has to face MS alone.

As a home based MS Help Hub Volunteer, you’ll provide emotional support and practical information through telephone, email and webchat conversations. You’ll help people access services, resources and support in a welcoming, non-judgemental environment.

You don’t need to have all the answers. Full training, ongoing support and guidance from staff, other volunteers and specialists will be provided throughout your volunteering journey. (Information on training dates can be found below) 

Join our passionate volunteer community and help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time commitment

This flexible, home-based role involves an agreed commitment of three volunteering hours each week, plus attendance at monthly team meetings.

Preferred cover times are Monday to Friday between 11am and 1pm, although all availability will be considered. The Help Hub operates Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.

Training 

Training will consist of online modules, each taking between 30-90 minutes which will be delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, am and pm, every week during July and August. You must be able to commit to these training times. Please see the longer advertisement on information on how to contact us with questions around training 

What you’ll be doing

• Offering emotional support and information in a non-judgemental and non-directive way 

• Using active listening skills to support a range of conversations 

• Signposting people affected by MS to relevant services and support 

• Developing awareness of social and medical issues affecting people with MS, including statutory services and welfare benefits 

• Recording enquiry information in line with our Data Protection Policy 

• Escalating safeguarding concerns and referring complex enquiries when needed 

• Attending monthly team meetings and training sessions 

• Keeping up to date with MS news and our work across the UK 

What we’re looking for

We’d love to hear from people who are:

• Empathetic, supportive and non-judgemental 

• Comfortable communicating with a wide range of people 

• Willing to learn and develop new skills 

• Able to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries 

• Comfortable using digital systems and online resources 

• Able to work as part of a team and ask for support when needed 

Training and support

You’ll receive:

• A full induction and Help Hub training 

• Ongoing support from staff and fellow volunteers 

• Access to learning and development opportunities 

• Quarterly access to external supervision 

• A Volunteer Welcome Pack 

Mandatory training includes:

• Data Protection 

• Safeguarding 

• Shape of Contact 

• Role-specific Help Hub training 

What you’ll gain

• The opportunity to make a real difference to people affected by MS 

• Experience supporting people through meaningful conversations 

• Increased confidence and communication skills 

• Knowledge of MS and related support services 

• Experience working as part of a supportive national team 

• Opportunities to influence and contribute to our work 

• Reimbursement of agreed expenses related to your role 

Have you got a passion for making an impact in your local community? Could you support us to launch community fundraising within your local community?

Help Caudwell Children to raise funds that support disabled and neurodivergent children to realise their full potential?

What will you be doing?

• Assist in planning, promoting, and delivering community fundraising events (e.g., charity walks, bake sales, raffles).

• Support local people with fundraising activities. •

• Represent the organisation at community events, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere and sharing information about Caudwell Children

• Keep accurate records of donations and fundraising activities in line with guidelines.

What skills would be useful?

• Friendly and approachable

• Organised

• Creative and enthusiastic about fundraising

• Previous fundraising or event coordination experience

What’s in it for you?

• Relevant training, mentoring and support will be provided

• Gain experience to add on to your CV

• Utilise your skills and learn new ones.

• Social opportunities

• Access to wellbeing support

• Out of pocket travel expenses can be reimbursed

• We strive to make reasonable adjustments and improve accessibility

How much time are you expected to give and when?

Volunteering is flexible. The brilliant thing about this role is you can do as much or as little as you like. Weekdays or weekends, daytime or evenings, there is lots of choice.

Where is the role located?

Looking for volunteers based across Staffordshire, support provided remotely. Minimum age for this role: 16

Volunteer with the MS Society Help Hub

Do you want to make a real difference to people affected by MS? 

Our MS Help Hub is a national service that supports around 20,000 enquiries every year, providing trusted information and emotional support to people living with MS, their families, friends and carers. 

We’re looking for compassionate and supportive volunteers to join our national team and help ensure no one has to face MS alone.

As a home based MS Help Hub Volunteer, you’ll provide emotional support and practical information through telephone, email and webchat conversations. You’ll help people access services, resources and support in a welcoming, non-judgemental environment.

You don’t need to have all the answers. Full training, ongoing support and guidance from staff, other volunteers and specialists will be provided throughout your volunteering journey. (Information on training dates can be found below) 

Join our passionate volunteer community and help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time commitment

This flexible, home-based role involves an agreed commitment of three volunteering hours each week, plus attendance at monthly team meetings.

Preferred cover times are Monday to Friday between 11am and 1pm, although all availability will be considered. The Help Hub operates Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.

Training 

Training will consist of online modules, each taking between 30-90 minutes which will be delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, am and pm, every week during July and August. You must be able to commit to these training times. Please see the longer advertisement on information on how to contact us with questions around training 

What you’ll be doing

• Offering emotional support and information in a non-judgemental and non-directive way 

• Using active listening skills to support a range of conversations 

• Signposting people affected by MS to relevant services and support 

• Developing awareness of social and medical issues affecting people with MS, including statutory services and welfare benefits 

• Recording enquiry information in line with our Data Protection Policy 

• Escalating safeguarding concerns and referring complex enquiries when needed 

• Attending monthly team meetings and training sessions 

• Keeping up to date with MS news and our work across the UK 

What we’re looking for

We’d love to hear from people who are:

• Empathetic, supportive and non-judgemental 

• Comfortable communicating with a wide range of people 

• Willing to learn and develop new skills 

• Able to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries 

• Comfortable using digital systems and online resources 

• Able to work as part of a team and ask for support when needed 

Training and support

You’ll receive:

• A full induction and Help Hub training 

• Ongoing support from staff and fellow volunteers 

• Access to learning and development opportunities 

• Quarterly access to external supervision 

• A Volunteer Welcome Pack 

Mandatory training includes:

• Data Protection 

• Safeguarding 

• Shape of Contact 

• Role-specific Help Hub training 

What you’ll gain

• The opportunity to make a real difference to people affected by MS 

• Experience supporting people through meaningful conversations 

• Increased confidence and communication skills 

• Knowledge of MS and related support services 

• Experience working as part of a supportive national team 

• Opportunities to influence and contribute to our work 

• Reimbursement of agreed expenses related to your role 

Job description

Job description

What is the befriending service?

• The Befriending Service links volunteers 1:1 with a disabled child/young person.
• Links are based on shared interests and activities, which you can enjoy doing together, either in the young person’s home or out in the community.

What experience do I need?

• You do not need any previous experience with disabled children or young people
• We ask that you are friendly, caring, reliable and able to make a commitment to visit a young person regularly.

What will I be doing?

You will volunteer within WECIL’s befriending service for disabled children/young people and their families. This involves:

• Spending time regularly with a disabled child or young person in their home or their local community.
• You will not be asked to administer medication or deliver personal care in this role.

Who am I responsible for?

• You are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of the child or young person you are linked with.
• All links are risk-assessed and carefully monitored by your Coordinator.

How often will I be needed?

• We typically ask for volunteers to commit to 1-4 hours a week
• The days / times are agreed between the volunteer and the family.
• We ask for a minimum commitment of 6 months to ensure the child and their family are able to benefit fully from the relationship.

What about expenses?

• Volunteer travel expenses can be reimbursed on receipt of a claim form. You won’t be left out of pocket.

Any Perks?

• Ongoing training and support to develop skills and confidence
• Professional references provided for committed volunteers
• Volunteer socials to meet like-minded people and build friendships
• Expenses are covered
• A welcoming and supportive environment

Time2Share@WECIL is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children and young people and expects its staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Our first priority is to ensure the safety of the children we support. 

Unfortunatly we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role. 

 

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

 

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

 

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

 

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

 

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

 

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

 

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

 

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

 

 

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Our volunteers are a fundamental part of our shops. Any time which they volunteer at our shops, help us be there for more people who are experiencing a mental health problem. 

About the volunteer role

To provide our volunteers with opportunities to gain a variety of skills and experience, we offer them a range of volunteer roles to choose from, which include:

• Stock preparation volunteer
• Volunteer shop sales assistant
• Volunteer stock generation assistant
• Volunteer window dresser/Merchandiser
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (antiques and collectables)
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (books and entertainment)
• Housekeeping volunteer

Key tasks

There is a variety of tasks within the above mentioned roles that our volunteers get involved with, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers with their purchases, providing them with great customer service and a delightful shopping experience
• Receiving donated items from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated items for sale
• Creating visually appealing window and in-store displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, clean and coordinated
• Processing sales and serving at the till
• Signing up gift aid donors
• Stock rotation
• Identifying special or valuable items within donated stock

About you

• Passionate about customer service 
• Good communication skills 
• Friendly and helpful
• Respectful of others and their diversity

Experience & skills you will gain

• Experience of working as part of a team
• Retail experience 
• Stock organisation
• Selling skills 
• Customer service skills 

Our Commitment

We are committed to becoming actively anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services. We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.