Volunteer roles

About Children With Voices

Children With Voices is a grassroots children’s charity that provides alternative education, wellbeing programmes, and community food hubs to help children and families thrive.

Our mission is simple — to give every child the tools, confidence, and voice to build a brighter future.

We’re growing and reshaping our organisation to reach more young people, and we’re now looking for a detail-oriented and reliable Finance Assistant to support our financial operations.

About the Role

As our Finance Assistant, you’ll be a vital part of the team, helping ensure that CWV’s finances run smoothly and transparently. You’ll manage day-to-day bookkeeping, assist with budgeting and reporting, and support compliance with charity financial standards.

You’ll work closely with the CEO, Operations team, and external accountants to make sure every penny is accounted for — and that we can continue delivering essential programmes in our community.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate financial records and bookkeeping using QuickBooks 

• Record income, donations, and grant payments

• Create and process invoices, receipts, and staff expenses

• Reconcile bank accounts 

• Support preparation of management accounts and reports

• Assist with grant reporting and annual audit preparation

• Ensure compliance with charity finance policies and procedures

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in bookkeeping or finance administration

• Comfortable using accounting software and Excel

• Highly organised with great attention to detail

• Able to work independently and handle confidential information responsibly

• Passionate about supporting a small charity with a big heart

Desirable:

• Experience in the charity or voluntary sector

• Knowledge of restricted/unrestricted funds or Gift Aid

• AAT qualification (or working towards)

What We Offer

• Flexible working hours (hybrid role)

• Supportive, purpose-driven environment

• Training and professional development opportunities

• A chance to make a genuine impact in the lives of children and families

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Children With Voices has been serving Hackney for over 25 years — and we need someone passionate about storytelling to help us share that story with the world.

As our Volunteer Social Media & Marketing Manager, you'll take the lead on our digital presence across Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook — creating content that celebrates our community, raises our profile, and helps us reach the families, partners, and supporters who need to know we exist.

This is a creative, community-driven role at the heart of a nationally recognised grassroots charity.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Develop and manage a content calendar across Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook

• Create engaging posts, reels, and stories that reflect the heart of our work

• Grow our online community and engagement with families, supporters, and partners

• Monitor analytics and share simple monthly insights with the team

• Support the CEO in amplifying key campaigns, appeals, and announcements

• Ensure all content aligns with Children With Voices brand, values, and safeguarding guidelines

• Collaborate with programme staff to capture stories, photos, and milestones

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Active user of at least two of: Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook

• Creative flair and a genuine love of community storytelling

• Good written communication and an eye for design

• Understanding of safeguarding principles when working with children and families

• Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work independently

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience using Canva, Adobe tools, or similar

• Background in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field

• Knowledge of the Hackney community or similar urban settings

• Experience working with charities or community organisations

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Real-world experience managing social media for a nationally recognised charity

• A portfolio of live, impactful community content

• A reference from our CEO for your professional portfolio

• The chance to be part of something that genuinely changes lives in Hackney

• Ongoing support and guidance from our leadership team

🌟 Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits 💖 Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

🧭 BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

🌍 Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

💎 OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

🧠 IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Secretary (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate records of board meetings and decisions.

• Distribute meeting agendas, minutes, and materials.

• Ensure all governance documents are up to date and compliant.

• Manage board communication and information flow.

• File all necessary regulatory documents (e.g., Companies House, Charity Commission).

Requirements:

• Strong administrative and organisational skills.

• Familiarity with governance documentation and compliance procedures.

Benefits:

• Central role in maintaining organisational transparency and accountability.

• Opportunity to establish best-practice systems and governance procedures.

Who we are

Children with Voices started over 20 years ago with one woman, a community hall and a belief that no child in Hackney should be forgotten. Our founder Michelle began with a Winter Wonderland for local children at London Fields School, covered by the Hackney Gazette, after being named Family Mosaic Inspirational Tenant of the Year. She has not stopped since.

Today we are a registered charity at Fawcett Estate Community Hall in Clapton, running a Community Food Hub, Jumping Beans, SEND support, alternative education and work in local schools. Over 100,000 children and families have come through our doors. Our work has been featured on BBC, ITV and Channel 4, and we have been recognised with a Pride of Britain Award and a Points of Light Award. What we are proudest of is that families still knock on our door knowing someone will answer.

Who this role suits

A retired journalist, press officer or communications professional with a contacts book and time to give. Someone in PR who wants their skills to mean something beyond the day job. A graduate ready to build real press cuttings with their name behind them. If you can spot a story and pick up the phone, you will do well here.

What you will be doing

• Building relationships with journalists, local papers, radio, podcasts and community platforms

• Writing press releases and statements, and getting them to the right people at the right time

• Finding the stories worth telling across our programmes and turning them into coverage

• Setting up interviews and media opportunities, and preparing Michelle and the team for them

• Keeping a record of coverage so we can show funders and partners the reach we have

• Working within our safeguarding policies at all times. We never share a child's image or story without proper consent.

What you will need

You need to be able to write clearly and quickly, and to be comfortable approaching people who do not know you yet. Persistence matters more than polish in this role, because most pitches go nowhere and the good ones come from following up. Media contacts are a real advantage but not essential.

What you will get from us

Your name on real coverage for a cause that deserves it. Freedom to shape how we are seen. Proper support, so you are never left to figure it out alone. A personal reference from Michelle, and work you will be glad to have on your record.

🌟 Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits 💖 Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

🧭 BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

🌍 Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

💎 OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

🧠 IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Treasurer (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Responsibilities:

• Oversee all financial matters including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.

• Ensure compliance with statutory financial regulations and charity law.

• Work closely with auditors and the Finance Committee.

• Present financial reports at each board meeting.

• Support fundraising and resource management strategy.

Requirements:

• Background in finance, accounting, or business administration.

• Knowledge of charity finance and UK financial reporting standards.

• Integrity and attention to detail.

Benefits:

• Direct influence over financial sustainability and impact measurement.

• Recognition in philanthropic financial management networks.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

Volunteer Operations and Compliance Volunteer

Where Fawcett Estate Community Hall, Clapton, Hackney

Hours: 6 to 8 hours a week, across 2 to 3 days in the office

Who we are

Children with Voices started over 20 years ago with one woman, a community hall and a belief that no child in Hackney should be forgotten. Our founder Michelle began with a Winter Wonderland for local children at London Fields School, covered by the Hackney Gazette, after being named Family Mosaic Inspirational Tenant of the Year. She has not stopped since.

Today we are a registered charity at Fawcett Estate Community Hall in Clapton, running a Community Food Hub, Jumping Beans, SEND support, alternative education and work in local schools. Over 100,000 children and families have come through our doors. Our work has been featured on BBC, ITV and Channel 4, and we have been recognised with a Pride of Britain Award and a Points of Light Award. What we are proudest of is that families still knock on our door knowing someone will answer.

Who this role suits

A retired operations, compliance or quality manager. Someone from a regulated sector who knows what good governance looks like in practice. Anyone who has kept an organisation running smoothly and would enjoy doing it again somewhere it matters.

What you will be doing

• Helping coordinate day to day operations across our programmes so the week runs smoothly

• Reviewing our processes and suggesting where we could work better with what we already have

• Keeping our policy library current, including safeguarding, data protection and health and safety

• Helping prepare clear information for our CEO and Trustees so they can see how things are running

• Flagging anything that looks like a compliance or safeguarding risk, promptly and to the right person

What you will need

Experience of running or coordinating operations somewhere with real accountability. An eye for detail and a habit of writing things down. Comfort with documents, spreadsheets and shared drives. Discretion, because you will see sensitive information about families and staff.

What you will get from us

Real influence over how a growing charity works. A seat at the table with our leadership team. Proper support, so you are never left to figure it out alone. A personal reference, and the satisfaction of seeing an organisation run better because you are in it.

Job Description – Volunteer Senior HR Manager

Organisation: Children With Voices

Location: Hackney, London - Hybrid

Job Purpose

The HR Manager plays a vital role in supporting the vision and mission of Children With Voices by ensuring that all HR practices are fair, compliant, and aligned with safeguarding, equity, and community wellbeing. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources, from recruitment and staff development to compliance and wellbeing initiatives. The HR Manager will be instrumental in creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where staff, volunteers, and young people can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading our HR function and setting the standard for how we recruit, support and look after everyone here
• Leading our HR Support and Administration volunteers, giving them direction and helping them develop
• Making sure our policies and practices hold up against UK employment law and safeguarding requirements
• Advising managers on people matters, and telling us plainly when something needs paid professional or legal advice
• Building fair, inclusive and safe recruitment and onboarding across staff and volunteers
• Overseeing HR and volunteer records so they are accurate, secure and compliant with data protection
• Helping us build honest processes for supervision, wellbeing and handling concerns
• Ensure workplace compliance with health and safety legislation.
• Embed safeguarding responsibilities across all HR practices, ensuring no child or vulnerable adult falls through the gaps.

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in an HR management role, ideally within the charity or community sector.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law, HR compliance, and safeguarding requirements.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust at all levels.
• Experience managing recruitment, onboarding, and training processes.
• Ability to mediate and resolve conflicts in a fair, professional, and sensitive manner.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail and confidentiality.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

Senior HR experience and current knowledge of UK employment law. Real experience of leading a team, because you will have volunteers looking to you. The judgement to know what you can decide and what needs escalating. Absolute discretion, as you will handle confidential information. Charity experience is welcome but not essential.

• CIPD qualification (Level 5 or above) or equivalent HR certification.
• Experience working with volunteers, young people, or community-focused organisations.
• Knowledge of charity governance and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in developing wellbeing or mental health initiatives.

What you will get from us

Full ownership of a people function you can build the way it should be built. Direct access to our CEO and a real voice in how this charity runs. A team of your own to lead. A personal reference, and the knowledge that everyone here is better looked after because of you.

Volunteer Reading Coordinator

The Coordinator is the first point of contact for those who want to learn to read. Using a simple assessment, the Coordinator will explain to a potential new ‘Reader’ how Read Easy may be able to help them. The Coordinator pairs up new Coaches with those who want to learn to read and provides ongoing support to these reading pairs. They visit reading sessions occasionally and maintain support through regular calls with both Reader and Coach to check all is going well, calling on the group’s Literacy Specialist to respond to any literacy related difficulties a pair may be having.

Being a Read Easy Coordinator is very flexible. You decide how much time you have to offer, and this will determine the number of reading pairs you look after. The role provides lots of variety, is home-based and can work well around other commitments. 

How we will support you:

You will be provided with the Coordinator Handbook, training, induction, policies, resources and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser. In addition, the Coordinator Supporter will meet with you regularly to provide support and find out how your Reading Pairs are getting on. You will be invited to Read Easy UK’s volunteer forums and National Conference which gives volunteers an opportunity for networking with those from other groups.

What you will be doing:

● Help interview new Coaches when recruited and shortlisted by the Volunteer Recruiter.

● Enrol and assess new Readers, using the simple resources provided.

● Match Readers with Coaches, make introductions, and help them organise their reading sessions (which will take place in an approved venue or online).

 ● Visit your reading pairs to provide encouragement, presenting certificates on occasion.

● Work collaboratively with any other Coordinators in the group.

● Contribute to Coach meetings where volunteers discuss their experiences and receive further support. (Run by the Management Team typically every 8 weeks.)

● Attend Management Team meetings when invited, typically every 6-8 weeks either in person or remotely.

● Record progress of your reading pairs using resources provided, sharing these with the Management Team to keep them fully informed and submit expenses for payment regularly.

The skills you will need:

● A passion for supporting others achieve either their reading or coaching goals;

● A willingness to become familiar with the methods of the phonics based Turning Pages coaching manuals, so that you can confidently guide others;

● Good communication and people skills, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality. Strong organisational, time management and record keeping skills;

● Self-awareness, personal responsibility and a professional approach;

● Reasonable confidence in using IT(accessing documents, completing electronic forms and records, email, Teams/Zoom meetings);

● The ability to use initiative and willingness to work independently and as part of a team;

● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures;

● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for support from the Management Team; ● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included;

● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of 2-3 hours a week to commit to the role.

What's in it for you? You will:

● receive outstanding Reading Coach Training;

● meet and work collaboratively with new people, and

● be active and engaged, adding value to your local community.

● Gain access to ongoing support and development.

● Out of pocket travel expenses reimbursed.

Do you enjoy making people feel welcome? Are you looking to join local activities while supporting people in need?

Join Bucks Vision as a Club Host Volunteer and help create a warm, friendly and inclusive environment for blind and partially sighted people at our social groups across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes. From welcoming members as they arrive to serving refreshments and helping sessions run smoothly, you'll play an important role in making every visit enjoyable.

Working alongside other volunteers, you'll help prepare the venue before each session, welcome and guide members, support activities and refreshments, and assist with tidying up at the end of the day. You'll also help ensure everyone can arrive, take part and leave safely, creating a positive experience for all.

We're looking for friendly, reliable volunteers who enjoy meeting new people and working as part of a team. No previous experience is needed—just a positive attitude, good communication skills and a willingness to lend a hand.

 If you enjoy bringing people together and making others feel at home, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note: This role requires an Enhanced DBS check, as you'll be supporting blind and partially sighted adults on a one-to-one basis.

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Telford.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application formas fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

We are looking for enthusiastic Arts and Crafts Volunteers to help provide meaningful companionship, creativity, and support at two of our Extra Care services in the London Borough of Brent. Volunteering with Creative Support is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of people with support needs while working alongside our team to deliver truly person‑centred care.

We are seeking individuals who are creative, patient, warm, and approachable, with a genuine interest in supporting others. You don't need to be a professional artist, but you should enjoy arts and crafts, be enthusiastic about sharing ideas, and be able to encourage participation in a relaxed and inclusive environment. If you can spare a couple of hours and are able to volunteer on a regular basis, we’d love to hear from you.

Activities might include painting, drawing and colouring activities; card-making and seasonal crafts; textile-based projects such as knitting and sewing; decorative and creative crafts; workshops linked to cultural events, celebrations and holidays; collaborative art projects and displays; and supporting residents to explore new creative hobbies and interests. If this sounds like something you’d enjoy and you can offer a few hours on a regular basis, we’d love to hear from you!

This role is for two of our extra care services for older people in the London Borough of Brent.

Volunteer Duties:

- Support residents to take part in a variety of creative arts and crafts activities

- Encourage individuals to express themselves through creative projects

- Help create a welcoming, fun, and inclusive atmosphere where everyone feel comfortable participating

- Build positive relationships with residents through conversation, companionship, and shared interests

- Adapt activities to suit different abilities, interests, and support needs

- Assist with setting up activities, organising materials, and tidying away afterwards

- Work alongside staff to ensure activities are safe, engaging, and person-centred

- Report any safeguarding concerns to Creative Support staff members

- Understand and work within Creative Support Policies and procedures, respecting boundaries

- Attend regular supervisions with your allocated volunteer supervisor and complete any training provided

Hours: Volunteer required for a couple of hours a week. Anytime between 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. 

Do you enjoy reading and want to make a real difference?

As a Reader Volunteer, you'll provide one-to-one support to blind and partially sighted people by helping with everyday reading and writing. Whether you're reading letters, completing forms, sharing the latest news or enjoying a favourite book together, your time can make daily life easier while providing valuable companionship.

Visits take place in members' homes at times that suit you both, giving you the opportunity to build a friendly and trusted relationship over time.

We're looking for caring, reliable volunteers with a clear speaking voice, good communication skills and a patient, understanding approach. No previous experience is needed—just confidence in reading aloud and a willingness to help. We'd ask for a commitment of at least six months to provide consistency for the person you support.

If you enjoy reading and would like to make a meaningful difference in someone's life, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note: This role requires an Enhanced DBS check, as you'll be supporting blind and partially sighted adults on a one-to-one basis.

Mulberry Cancer Support is looking for a voluntere to cary out some basic regular cleaning tasks once a month.

• To undertake light cleaning duties such as cleaning window blinds, cleaning windows, wiping windowsills, sweeping the front entrance, and other light general cleaning and tidying.
• To work to a high standard to ensure that to we provide a clean, welcoming environment for everyone who visits and uses our Centre.
• Previous cleaning experience, either professionally paid, as a volunteer, or as a general life skill.
• Reasonably physically fit and able to take pride in your work.
• Friendly and professional manner, with a positive, organised and flexible approach to work.
• Able to take direction, but also able to make relevant suggestions.

Mulberry Cancer Support, is looking for new volunteers with flexible availability to help us set up and run our stall at a variety of fun community fundraising & enagement events, mainly in West London - Hounslow, Richmond & Ealing areas - and occasionally at our Centre in Isleworth. Come and sell rafle tickets, inspire donations, hold a collection bucket, give out leaflets and engage with the public at our own events and at fetes, fairs and stadium days.

Volunteers must be age 18+. Most events take place March - July and October - December.