Volunteer volunteer roles in Europe

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care. 

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might: 

• Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
• Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
• Raise concerns
• Keep detailed notes and records
• Make a real difference to someone’s life 

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”.

We are seeking a volunteer nurse or care manager to join us onboard The Jumbulance for a Pilgrimage to Lourdes in September and October  (25 September - 2 October or 16 October - 23 October)

Your role:

This role is ideal for a nurse or appropriately trained care manager who enjoys working as part of a team, supporting others, and using their professional skills to make a real difference.

Before the trip, you’ll review passenger care records with the group leader and complete an initial risk assessment on arrival. During the trip, you’ll carry out morning and evening checks, along with ad hoc support as needed. 

• Review and support pre‑trip care assessments for allocated traveller
• Lead and coordinate care provision during the trip, including managing care rota's 
• Administer or oversee medication management
• Provide personal care and clinical support as required
• Work collaboratively with volunteer carers, personal carers, and the Trip Leader
• Participate in safeguarding, risk awareness, and incident reporting
• Support travellers to attend activities, meals, excursions, and social time
• Contribute to creating a warm, inclusive, enjoyable atmosphere for everyone​

We welcome volunteers with professional care experience, including:

• Registered Nurses 
• Paramedics or other clinicians
• Senior carers with experience leading care teams

Essential qualities:

• Compassionate, calm, friendly, and reliable
• Confident supporting medication and personal care
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to adapt to varied environments and group travel
• Commitment to dignity, respect, and safeguarding

What we provide:

• All travel, half board accommodation

Plesae get in touch to find out more

Role summary

The use of complementary therapies in palliative care has become an increasingly significant feature of health care and evidence shows that therapies can support the emotional, mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing of patients and their families and carers, and those facing loss and bereavement. This role will give you the unique opportunity to use your incredible skills, qualities, and knowledge to gain experience in specialised healthcare for end of life and bereavement. This will enable you to build confidence and ability to provide care and wellbeing in an integrated hospice environment. Research has shown that its use alongside conventional medicine can help enhance relaxation and well-being, and relieve stress and anxiety, as well as help with the management of specific issues such as symptom control of fatigue, breathlessness, nausea, and pain.

An enhanced adult & child DBS check is required for this role. 

Main duties of the role

• Provide therapies in accordance with the complementary therapy policy and procedure, as well as the code of ethics and practice.

• Assess and plan patients’ treatment and documentation of given treatment and patient response.

• Report any concerns you may have about a patient’s/client’s health or welfare (or anything the patient may have said that is of concern) to the IPU team or CT team lead

• Uphold the confidentiality guidance in all matters relating to the patient or their family.

• Be generally aware of patients’ needs and always ensure the dignity of the patients.

• Maintain good infection control practices at all times

• Prepare the complementary therapy treatment areas before and after a treatment

• Adhere to the dress code requirements.

• Seek support and advice when needed.

• To adhere to the CT code of conduct and ethics

• Provide feedback, including reports of any adverse effects, to the Complementary Therapy Lead.

• To undertake any other tasks as requested/deemed appropriate with the nature of the role.

• Complete all paperwork and feedback clearly and objectively

• Adhere to relevant and current protocols for the practice of the specific therapy or therapies.

All complementary therapies are characterised by treating the whole person, considering the mental, emotional and physical factors associated with the challenges they face. Complementary therapies work with the total care given, to promote comfort and support for both patients and their families/carers. We also support those who access our bereavement services. 

Training & supervision

We will provide you with practice into palliative and bereavement care by extending the opportunities for you to gain valuable hands-on experience that will affirm your vocational knowledge and skills. Other training includes:

• There will be an induction to the hospice and all volunteers must undertake mandatory health and safety training. In addition, all volunteer complementary therapists have to undergo an enhanced DBS check, undertake safeguarding, accessing personal information (medical record information) and lone working training

• To undertake an induction into the complementary therapy service, this may include shadowing another volunteer therapist, as appropriate.

• To attend meetings/supervision and training in palliative needs. 

Experience & qualifications required

• You will need to be qualified and hold the appropriate certifications in the relevant practice:

o L3+ Aromatherapy

o L3+ Massage therapy

o L3+ Reflexology

o L3+ Holistic therapy

o L2/L3+ Beauty therapy (with facial and massage/aromatherapy units)

o Qualified in the HEARTS PROCESS

o Degree2/3+ Reiki plus one of the above qualifications (not a stand alone Reiki qualification)

o L4+ Shiatsu

• Relevant professional qualifications essential from an accredited awarding body, such as C&G, VTCT, ITEC - which meets recognised UK Occupational Standards.

• Membership of a recognised Complementary Therapy Regulatory Body, e.g. CNHC, FHT, AOR or other voluntary recognised association or organisation, and hold up to date professional insurance, or be prepared to join prior to volunteering

• You must have current work experience and up to date skills which meet relevant competencies, e.g. CPD records and skills development.

Personal attributes

• Ability to work independently, and show flexibility by learning the ‘think on your feet’ and not to proceed if unsure and seek clarification

• Have the ability to keep the patient/client central to the treatment plan and make the required adjustments accordingly

• Be compassionate and empathtic, demonstrating sensitivity to patient/ client physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs and wellbeing

• Ability to use initiative and be innovative

• Respectful of other’s differences and choices

• Reliable, organised honest and punctual

• Maintain confidentiality and GDPR at all times

• Be emotionally resilient to work in this type of care setting

• Recognise own boundaries in the therapeutic relationship and limitations of the role and seek support when needed

Role summary

St Helena is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to be part of their fundraising team, supporting events and initiatives in their local areas to help raise awareness and much needed funds. The role is flexible and we will fit around your availability. We have events throughout the year and would invite you to support across all areas of fundraising. 

Main duties of this role may include any of the following:

• Attend St Helena events to help with marshalling, registration, refreshments or selling merchandise

• Attend external third party events to represent St Helena

• Attend external events and venues to engage with the public to encourage participants to sign up to events and challenges

• Participate in bucket collections and other fundraising opportunities in the local community as requested

• Be able to set up and oversee a stand at events and promotional opportunities in the local community including supermarkets, markets, town centres, fayres, Christmas light switch-ons and similar events

• Promote the charity and inspire people to support St Helena

• Adhere to St Helena policies and procedures at all times

• Represent The Hospice in a professional manner

• Ensure all information is kept confidential and secure at all times

Training & supervision

• You will receive any training required for this role

Experience & qualifications required

• No previous experience is required for this role, just a willingness to support St Helena

Personal attributes

• Passionate about St Helena

• Attention to detail

• Good communication skills

• Comfortable handling cash

• Reliable and trustworthy

• Be comfortable approaching and engaging with members of the public

• Team player with a friendly outlook

Role summary

To work as part of a busy team, assisting the Donation Centre team to maximise income by supporting Drivers on deliveries and collections in the shops and some processing of stock. This role requires a level of fitness. 

Main duties of the role

• Accompany Drivers on deliveries and support with moving of cages and stock to and from the shops

• Assist in the shops with moving of stock and removal of unwanted items

• To act as Banksman when the drivers when moving vehicles in tight areas, to ensure that the vehicle is moved safely

• If required help with the sorting and assigning of donations to shops

• Be aware of and adhere to health & safety regulations at all times

Training & supervision

• Health and safety training is mandatory (repeated annually), some of which is online

• Training on site at Donation Centre for handling of stock and cages.

• Banksman training will be given

Experience & qualifications required

• Some customer services/warehouse environment experience would be advantageous

• Must have good communications skills to be able to explain trading standards regulations in a professional and polite manner when goods cannot be accepted

• Experience of having worked in similar role 

Role summary

Community Bereavement Cafés are welcoming and open spaces for people to talk about their grief.  Facilitators help run and facilitate the cafes.

A standard DBS check will be required for this role.

Main duties of this role may include any of the following:

· Help prepare the venue for the café set up – positioning chairs, preparing refreshments, making the seating welcoming and conducive to a positive experience.

· Welcome people as they arrive.

· Provide name labels to ensure people are known by name.

· Identify newcomers and assist them to settle in – making introductions and offering a helping hand to begin with. Being sure to withdraw yourself from the group when it feels right to allow peer support to take over and blossom.

· Offer and make drinks, clear cups etc.

· Facilitate a session in the Cafe after receiving bereavement training.

· Give notice before the café is due to end so that people can draw their conversations to a close.

· Occasionally, at the end, distribute feedback forms to participants to complete anonymously.

· When everyone has left, put the room back to how it was before the café started.

· Escalate any concerns or worries about attendees to the Cafe lead.

·Uphold strict confidentiality and maintain professional boundaries at all times.

Training & supervision

· Training provided in understanding grief and bereavement, communication and active listening skills, facilitating group spaces, safeguarding, boundaries, referral pathways, cafe operations and practical logistics.

· Monthly supervision/support.

· Ongoing training as required.

Experience & qualifications required

· Having excellent communication and listening skills.

· Ability to join in conversation and contribute appropriately.

· Happy chatting in a group or individually.

· Allowing others to speak and give them space to do that.

· Being comfortable discussing bereavement, death, dying and loss.

· Ability to judge the correct moment to leave a conversation, and have the confidence and skills to do that.

· Ability to effectively facilitate groups – creating a supportive environment in which everyone feels able and welcome to contribute, and in which no one person dominates to the detriment of others.

· Friendly and approachable.

· Empathic · Calm · Non-judgemental.

· Flexible in approach · Emotional intelligence, and alertness while facilitating.

· Being able to read situations and act appropriately.

· Reliable and punctual.

· Understand, and maintain the boundaries of your role.

· Well-developed coping strategies and resilience in discussing difficult feelings and bereavement.

· Able to respect, and maintain, people’s confidentiality.

· Able to ask for help and advice when situations arise that are beyond your own knowledge, capabilities, or comfort levels.

· To be self-reflective and make full use of supervision.

INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE) 

CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings  

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The reading group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the reading group sessions are as follows: 

• Monday afternoons 2pm to 3pm 

• Wednesday mornings 11am to 1pm. 

Volunteers are required to attend either one of both sessions. Volunteers are also welcome to stay and support the more traditional English language classes either before the reading session on Mondays or after the reading session on Wednesdays. 

Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.

The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.

The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.

Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources; 

• Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;  

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• * Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.  

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry 

• The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months; 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish; 

• Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistants to support our face-to-face study programme called ‘Get Ready for School.’

This programme is attended by young people out of education and is based in Streatham on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Core delivery of the programme includes English, Maths, Digital skills, complemented by Reading and Writing for Pleasure.

We also run Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon classes open to all existing CARAS youth community members, 4:30pm to 6pm. These classes tend to be larger and have a large range of language levels. 

Volunteers in this role are required to commit to at least one 2-hour session per week, during these times:

• Monday 10 am to 3pm

• Tuesday 2pm to 6pm 

• Wednesday 11am to 6pm

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within ESOL classes;

• Help young people to build confidence in digital literacy;

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;

• Engaging learners in informal conversations or games during breaks to help them practice their conversational English.

• Checking the session plan aims with the lead teacher and assisting learners achieve them;

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project;

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements 

Essential: 

• To be 18 years or older;

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (travel and food expenses can be reimbursed);

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds;

• To be reliable and punctual. We ask volunteers to commit to at least one class every week for a minimum of 4 months. If you are unable to attend a class due to a planned holiday, you must inform the program lead in advance. 

• Excellent communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;

• The ability to volunteer on Monday mornings and Wednesday afternoons/evenings during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum seeker or refugee status

• *Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check (DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a Caras community member who is more recently arrived in the UK);

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

*DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK. 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering 
   

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with a member of the CARAS learning staff team and a community member. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP! 
 

 All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. 

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in South West London, and helps them to play their full part in the community. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives. 

We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background, providing them the tools they need to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for adults include currently include: ESOL classes; sports; women’s creative writing; women’s coffee morning, and casework. 

About the CARAS Adult Team: 

In the post-pandemic environment, CARAS is responding to the role of digital literacies in our programme delivery to learners of asylum-seeking and refugee background. In contrast to the UK essential Digital skills framework, we have built in language inclusion to create a participatory learning course for Essential Digital Literacies for learners who are new to reading and writing in English. The individuals joining CARAS are highly diverse, with different countries of origin, linguistic and educational backgrounds. We have observed over the last year that many CARAS community members have limited digital skills, particularly in regard to using computers. Community members have highlighted that computers are important for many individuals to achieve their educational and employment goals, whilst increasing confidence and independence. We have co-designed a digital skills program in partnership with CARAS community members to improve computer literacy and skills, focusing on basic computer literacy.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Digital Skills Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The Digital Skills group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the digital skills sessions is as follows: 

• Tuesday evenings 4pm to 6pm 

Volunteers are required to attend one session per week. They are also welcome to come early and support ESOL classes before the Digital Skills sessions, where appropriate. 

The Tuesday Digital skills sessions focus on practical, accessible digital skills, such as, but not limited to: 

• Using computers, tablets, or smartphones confidently 

• Keyboard and navigation skills 

• Using email and online communication tools 

• Accessing learning platforms and online resources 

• Online safety and digital wellbeing 

• Using digital tools to support English learning, homework and study skills 

The aim of the Digital Skills sessions is to build independence, confidence, and digital inclusion, supporting young people to engage more fully with formal education and everyday life in the UK. Enrolments to the programme are based on rolling admissions, requiring adaptability to the changing digital skills needs of the group through participatory enquiry led by the ESOL teacher. 

The ESOL teacher will provide guidance, session plans, and tips for supporting learners with emerging English, including how to explain digital concepts in clear, accessible ways. 

Volunteers will typically work with 1–5 students, offering one-to-one or small group support and adapting tasks to different ability levels. 

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing one-to-one or small group support during Digital Skills sessions 

• Supporting young people to use digital devices and software confidently 

• Helping to set up the classroom and digital equipment 

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session 

• Sharing observations on learners’ progress, challenges, and successes 

• Making use of any community languages if any, to support learners’ understanding 

• Working collaboratively as part of a team and helping to shape the project 

• Supporting young people to recognise and celebrate their achievements 

• Showing flexibility to a wide range of ability levels and confidence with technology 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, and all other relevant policies 

Requirements: 

Essential: 

• Aged 18 years or older 

• An interest in education, digital inclusion, and supporting young people 

• Confident using computers, smartphones, or tablets 

• Currently resident in the UK or has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses and willing to undergo a DBS check 

• DBS and proof of residency are not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK 

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to starting 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed) 

• Non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds 

• Reliable and punctual, with a commitment of at least one session per week for a minimum of 4 months 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English 

• Willingness to explain digital concepts patiently and clearly 

• Ability to volunteer during Wandsworth term time 

Desirable 

• Experience supporting young people with digital skills or IT (formal or informal) 

• Knowledge of community languages such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali, or Spanish 

• Experience working with young people, refugees, or learners of English in a work or volunteer capacity 

• Interest in using digital tools to support language learning 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will be invited to a taster session at CARAS, following which they will have an informal interview with a staff member of the CARAS ESOL team and a community member. All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. These meetings and the induction training will be on a rolling basis, so apply ASAP!

Get Out There groups are a growing division of Sense that cater for children between 6 and 16 with complex needs. We provide a 4 hour social setting which caters for children and families who need respite. We offer activities such as games, puzzles, arts and crafts, experiments, cookery and sensory play. We aim to tailor sessions to the needs, interests and abilities of the children we support and put pupil voice at the center of all we do. 

As a volunteer you'll make sure that everyone has a great time and can make the most of the activities on offer. You'll need lots of energy, a warm and welcoming personality and to be happy getting stuck in to a wide range of tasks and activities, all of which make sure that everyone has the best day they can together. 

What your role will involve

• Taking part in activities alongside disabled young people. You could be joining creative activities, movement or sports session, trips out in to the local community or seasonal themed activities.
• Helping to set up the activities at the start of the day, clear away at the end and keep activities safe, clean and running smoothly throughout.
• Helping to welcome young people to the group, find their way around and between activities, enjoy breaks and lunchtime and generally have a great day with the team and Sense.

A basic / enhanced Disclosure & Barring check will be required for this volunteer role. 

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

• Fun and friendly and confident to meet and spend time with disabled young people.
• Willing to develop the knowledge and skills to communicate with young people who have multi sensory impairments and who may use a wide range of communication methods
• Able to work well in a team and be flexible about the role you play during the day depending on what’s needed by individuals and activities
• Reliable and punctual.
• Committed to providing support in a way that offers choice, independence and dignity
• We welcome volunteers of all ages to this role who are able to create an inclusive and welcoming peer environment for everyone involved in the group. 

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• Induction information to prepare you for your role, a briefing at the start of each event, and lots of on-site support and guidance from our experienced staff team who will be running the day
• Agreed out of pocket expenses to be reimbursed, in line with Sense policy
• The chance to get to know new people, try new activities in your local community and to have lots of fun taking part together
• To develop new skills and knowledge about communicating and working with children and young people with complex communication needs and multi-sensory impairment
• To know you’re part of a passionate and committed team making a big difference to how young people are able to get the most out of both new and favourite activities and to have a great time together.
• If you are 16 or 17 we will ask to make contact with a parent or other appropriate adult to share details of your volunteering role, timings and contact / emergency information. 

About us

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. 

Do you enjoy being organised and supporting others? The Hospice Lottery Partnership is looking for a Volunteer Office Administrator to join our friendly team in Tring. By volunteering your time and skills, you will play an important part in the smooth day to day running of our lottery, so we can continue raising vital funds for local charities.

We are a dog friendly office, and volunteer Sheila’s dog Daisy, often keeps us company, so well behaved dogs are welcome to come along and quickly become part of the team.

What you could be doing

• Processing incoming and outgoing mail
• Organising, filing and updating documents
• Supporting the team with general office administration
• Helping with ad hoc tasks as needed

We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, reliable and keen to learn. You do not need to be an expert, as training and support will be provided. You might be a good fit if you:

• Are friendly, approachable and happy to help
• Enjoy being organised and getting stuck in
• Are willing to learn new skills at your own pace
• Can work independently as well as part of a small team
• Communicate clearly and respectfully
• Understand the importance of confidentiality

Previous office or administration experience is helpful but not essential, as we can teach you everything you need to know.

Why volunteer with The Hospice Lottery Partnership?

• Be part of a welcoming, friendly and supportive team
• Meet new people and build confidence and experience
• Receive a full induction and role specific training
• Know that your time is helping contribute to raising funds for local charities
• Enjoy free tea, coffee and biscuits
• Take part in social events throughout the year

Practical details

• Computer skills are helpful but not essential for all tasks
• Location: Tring office, Akeman Street
• Flexible hours to suit your availability
• Voluntary roles include an informal interview and trial period

Help us digitise RAF Museum’s paper-based collections information, to improve its accessibility, searchability and preservation.

What is the role?

The Collection and Research Team at the RAF Museum Midlands holds a significant number of paper-based records on its objects, ranging from provenance information, details of past conservation treatments, the service histories of specific aircraft, and historical correspondence. The Collections Information Digitisation Volunteer will assist our team to digitise these records. While securely stored, digitising these records will produce many benefits, including making them shareable with external researchers, searchable for the Museum’s own team, and helping to ensure their longer-term preservation.

This role sits within the RAF Museum’s Midlands Development Programme which will transform our museum and our impact on the local community through a series of phased projects – engaging audiences who may not obviously identify with the RAF story by finding common interests and histories which link them. As part of this project, we are planning a new learning centre, outdoor spaces, collections hub and major exhibition.

What will I be doing?

• Scanning object history files and museum forms,

• Administrating scans produced within a set file structure,

• Adapting existing digital documentation to make it shareable externally,

• Developing an understanding of information security and GDPR,

• Developing an understanding of museum sector practices and procedures.

This role is perfect for you if you…

· Have good IT Skills, including the Windows OS, Microsoft Word and Outlook,

· Can lift and carry documents, and operate a scanner,

· Can carry out tasks methodically, with good accuracy attention to detail,

· Have an interest in history and/or heritage.

How much time would I need to commit?

One full day or half day, ideally once a week, between 10.00 and 16.00 at the RAF Museum Midlands.

What’s in it for me?

· Become part of a great team of volunteers and staff

· Meet new people and have new experiences,

· Discounts in gift shop and café,

· Free access to Flight Zone and similar attractions on site,

· Travel expenses reimbursed up to £14.50 per day, in line with our policy,

· Free entry to a wide selection of other museum and heritage sites and exhibitions nationwide.

What happens after I apply?

Suitable applicants will be invited to have an informal chat with the line manager.

Please note: This role requires a DBS check which RAF Museum will facilitate, and a one character reference.

Applications are welcomed from anyone able to fulfil the role, and we are happy to discuss support requirements.

About Kith & Kids
We provide activities, opportunities, information, and support for people with a learning disability or autism, their parents and siblings.
For all our projects and activities we are dependent on volunteers.

Our Summer Project
Wed 22nd – Sun 26th July 9:30am – 5:30pm in North London.

We are currently looking for energetic and enthusiastic volunteers, to join us on our fantastic fun-filled Summer Social Development Project.

Volunteers and our members who have disabilities get to know each other as they take part in fun and challenging workshops including sports & games, arts & crafts, cooking and enjoying a day out in London.

What you'll do
On the project you and a fellow volunteer will be paired with one of our members with a learning disability or autism. You'll support and encourage them to take part in a wide range of activities led by professional therapists and workshop leaders.

Our core activities are sports & games, arts & crafts, drama and music. Previous additional workshops have also included photography, football and cooking and you’ll plan your own exciting outing around London with a fellow volunteer and the Kith & Kids member you're linked with.

Not only is it a time full of fun and games for you and our members, you are a vital part in supporting them to develop their social skills in a day-to-day environment.

Come along and get involved!

Male volunteers especially welcome (we need more)!!

Requirements

What you need
You do not need experience. Full disability awareness training will be provided before you begin volunteering with us.
The only requirements we ask of you are enthusiasm, energy and to be open-minded.
Minimum age for volunteers is 18.

How much time?
The project runs for 5 days, Wed 22nd – Sun 26th July, 9:30am – 5:30pm  in North London.

Everyone gets the most out of the project if you come for the full ten days as you'll build a close relationship with the member you'll have been supporting and will create the most impact.

What we can offer you
We can reimburse your travel expenses and provide a delicious lunch each day.
We'll also provide excellent training before the project, and lots of helpful support.

By volunteering on our project, you'll also:

• Use and develop your skills.
• Learn something new, get involved in fun activities with others.
• Increase your confidence.
• Meet new people and make friends.
• Gain experience for (other) work
• Give something back to the community.
• Do something fun and satisfying in your spare time.
• Challenge yourself.
   

What about training?
Volunteers must attend training and complete a free DBS check before you begin volunteering.

This is a great opportunity to get to know everyone at Kith & Kids: your fellow volunteers, some of our members you will be working with, and also gives the opportunity to develop some new skills and expand your knowledge in our workshops.

Topics we cover include:

• Communication
• Autism
• Supporting emotions
• Safeguarding
• Creativity & Participation
• Epilepsy
   

When do I need to come?

We'll be running face-to-face training in north London starting on the 17th  May with lots of other dates to choose from.

In the meantime, we'll be meeting volunteers online from the end of April.  

Training will take place in North London – once we have met you online for a chat, we will send you confirmation of our training venue details.  

URGENTLY HIRING FOR A SHORT TERM ROLE IN DIGITAL ILLUSTRATION SUITABLE FOR THOSE REQUIRING REFERENCES FOR FUTURE ROLES.

M2 SPED Awareness is seeking 2 digital illustrators to use their experience of creating original  2d Vector art images using either Adobe Illustrator/Affinity Designer/Krita to design original images to replace our placeholder canva images for our upcoming Self-published Guidebook on Neurodiversity Awareness.

Your Artwork will contribute a lasting legacy for Neurodiversity Youth Advocates, Educators, and Healthcare professionals who would access the guidebook scheduled for release on 1st September 2026. 

This book will be free to Neurodiversity Youth Advocates and 100% of royalties made from public sale will be used to fund our CPD courses and Neurodiveristy Youth Advocate Programmes.

What we offer

After completion of the role, you can request for references from the co-founder of the charity for any future job appliciations.

Your illustrations will also be labelled with your name and a bio of your profile and contributions will be documented in the first chapter of the book to recognise your contributions.

What you will do?

work with the organisation on a remote monthly basis to complete tasks (with assistance from our Projects and Mentoring Lead with task delegation and organising) which could include the following:

(i) Training: Attend induction training on Neurodiversity and the charity during May

(ii) Backgrounds & Contributions Profile write up: Write a short profile about yourself and contributions to the guidebook which will be place in Chapter 1 of the Guidebook for recognition in May.

(iii) Illustration Work: Create ORIGINAL 2d Vector art style images to replace the place holder Canva Images for allocated book cover/chapters during May-July.

Month by Month breakdown seen in job description.

What you’ll bring

You will be an experienced Digital Illustrator with available software to create your original 2d vector artwork.

Essential skills and experience:

• Experience in Digital Illustration Skills
• Experience with either Adobe Illustrator OR Affinity Designer OR Krita
• Experience creating original artwork in Modern 2D Vector artstyle.
• Right to Work in the UK (Be it via Citizenship/Right to Remain/Vias- This charity cannot offer sponsorship)

Key details

Hours: part-time (3.5 hours per week): Days and hours of choice are flexible to the employee.

Location: Remote working

Contract type: fixed-term, until July 15th 2026.

Next steps

Closing date for applications: Late evening (11pm), Friday 24 April 2026. Please note we aim to review all applications within 24 hours and may close the advert early if we have the desired number of applicants. We encourage you to apply promptly to not face dissapointment. 

Notification of interview: shortlisted applicants will be notified no later than 24 hours after their application. When applying we recommend you attach a portfolio of your work which would influence discussions during the interview call.

Interviews: will be held remotely between Wednesday 22nd April - Wednesday 29th April. The interview will be 30 minutes duration.