Practitioner Volunteer Roles

Introduction

The English-Speaking Union (ESU), is a charity and membership organisation that works to give young people the speaking and listening skills and cross-cultural understanding they need to thrive. The ESU’s speech and debate programmes and international exchanges improve young people’s attainment, self-esteem and social skills, helping them to fulfil their potential and to change their lives and communities for the better.

We are looking for volunteers to help support and judge our competitions, please find details below:

• Schools’ Mace - The oldest debating competition for schools in England and Wales (ages 11-18)
• Public Speaking Competition - The largest such competition for schools in England and Wales (ages 13-16)
• Performing Shakespeare Competition - Students express their passion and imagination and compete for a chance to perform at Shakespeare’s Globe (ages 11-14)

You don’t need to be a debater or public speaker yourself – you just need to be enthusiastic about encouraging and inspiring young people to be the best they can be. There are opportunities throughout the year, each requiring around 4-5 hours’ commitment from late afternoon onwards. Full training is given, and it’s great fun, with students often covering thought-provoking topics from obesity and the NHS to Churchill and what defines happiness.

We look forward to welcoming you soon and can't wait to get you started!

The National Migraine Centre is the UK’s only charity providing diagnosis and treatment for
the one in seven people who are affected by migraine. Over more than four decades, our
world-class consultant neurologists and GP headache specialists have helped more than
67,000 people to access effective treatment. Our dedicated team also leads patient
education projects, including the award-winning Heads Up podcast, alongside professional
training for clinicians and research into new treatments.

Our trustees are volunteer board members, who guarantee good governance, set
strategy, provide advice and ensure our work continues to advance charitable objectives.

Perhaps you have lived experience, or maybe you just want to support a small charity with a big impact. 

We're not only looking for those with these particular skills, but we would love to hear from you if you can bring experience in one of the following areas...

Third sector leadership We're interested in those with leadership experience in the charity or social enterprise sectors. 

Clinical We're looking for practising clinicians, perhaps those working in primary care. We're also hoping to appoint headache specialists too. 

NHS leadership Someone with a strategic awareness of NHS plans, processes and structures.

Finance Those with relevant financial management experience.

Digital healthcare Since we now deliver services almost exclusively online, we'd love to hear from you if you could help us navigate developments in health tech.

Would you like to do something practical to help older people? Do you have a few hours a month to spare? We are looking for caring and compassionate people with excellent communication and administrative skills to assist us with reception duties at our footcare clinics.

Your volunteering responsibilities

• Help prepare the venue before and after clinics.

• Act as first port of call for clients attending the clinic, e.g., direct them where to park, welcome them on arrival, provide drinks and chat while they wait for their appointment, and inform the Foot Care Practitioners when they have arrived.

• Ensure that clients are informed of fire safety procedures e.g. signing in and out, evacuation procedures.

• Alert the Independence at Home Manager if there are any issues or concerns.

The skills required for this role are:

• Good communication skills.

• A warm and friendly personality.

• Patience and respect for others.

• Be committed and reliable.

• Willingness to complete our induction training

As a Silver City Surfers Volunteer Tutor you will support learners with use of their smartphone, tablet or laptop. Enabling older people to embrace technology and gain the confidence to keep learning, improving not just their digital skills but to use the internet to improve their well-being and feel less socially isolated.

Silver City Surfers are supporting members of the community, mostly over 50's who are struggling with the world of IT and accessing the internet. With five drop in sessions at different venues in the city throughout the week, the charity's volunteers are busy helping people with a range of IT related requests. Often it's basic help that's required in getting online and learning how to use a new device, perhaps a smart phone for the first time. Crucially for those who are struggling to access essential services that have now moved fully online, Silver City Surfers are providing a lifeline. We are looking to expand our team of volunteers and help even more people. Many are reaching out as they find themselves in the vulnerable position of being unable to pay bills, make a GP appointment or claim benefits. Our tutors offer their support along with a cup of tea and reassuring chat.

Wayfinder is a volunteer-led programme supporting people affected by homelessness by building long-term relationships and connection. 

The Wayfinder Programme offers support to people moving away from homelessness, temporary or insecure accommodation. Each individual is supported by their own volunteer, who will work with them on their individual goals, helping them to make positive changes, navigate their local community and establish a stable home. 

The Wayfinder Programme is now recruiting volunteers. Do you have the skills knowledge and life experience to support someone to make positive changes and find their place in their local community? Sign up to volunteer today and help us break the cycle of homelessness together. 

What will volunteers be doing? 

Examples of tasks volunteers will do: 

• Help with settling into new accommodation 
• Help accessing local services, activities or social opportunities
• Support with filling out forms, or signposting to specialist advice
• Support with setting a budget, setting up utilities or managing household bills
• Support with accessing healthcare, e.g. registering with a GP, Dentist or Optician 

What support will I get as a volunteer? 

As a Wayfinder volunteer you will have the opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence, and meet new people. In return we will support you with: 

• Initial and ongoing training
• A local coordinator to support you
• Out of hours support
• Regular volunteer meet ups. 

Our Charity Champions are passionate individuals who are committed to supporting PKS. You will work alongside the PKS Team to support the charity, raising money in your area, identify new fundraising opportunities and raise awareness of PKS and their Services.

Charity Champions represent PKS in their local area. There are various ways to do this, and the role is flexible, so you are free to pick and choose which activities appeal to you. 

Here are some examples of activities Charity Champions do:

· Attending cheque presentation events as a representative of PKS

· Attending community events as a representative of PKS

· Attending organised walking, running, and cycling events to cheer on people taking part for PKS.

· Organising your own fundraising activities e.g. bucket collections, cake sales or raffles

· Supporting PKS fundraising and/or awareness events e.g. bucket collections, festivals ro regional shows etc

· Providing information in your local area about the support PKS provides e.g. putting information leaflets in local GP surgeries, supermarkets or posters on community notice boards

· Holding awareness stands at community events.

· Taking part in or encouraging others to get involved in fundraising events throughout the year

· Supporting social media campaigns by sharing content with your network

· Delivering talks about the work of the charity and the importance of fundraising

· Promoting PKS within your own network and encouraging more people to fundraise for us

As a Group Leader at Youth Challenge Oxfordshire (YoCO), you will play a key role in guiding and supporting young people through our 18-month program. This involves leading weekly 2-hour sessions in Wallingford, creating a safe and engaging environment, and driving personal development.

Responsibilities:

• Lead a 2-hour weekly session during term time, following YoCO’s unique programme: ME (self-awareness), US (group dynamics), and THEM (community & global causes).
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and fun environment, supporting the personal development of all group members.
• Plan fundraising activities alongside your group and the YoCO support team, and attend events (some may be on weekends).
• Lead the group on a 5-day UK residential trip organized by YoCO.
• Regularly update YoCO staff on the group’s progress and address any issues.
• Attend an induction with the Group Manager, complete a DBS check, and receive First Aid and Safeguarding training (funded by YoCO).

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Passionate and Motivated: Enthusiastic about working with vulnerable young people, with a commitment to motivating and inspiring them to reach their full potential. Able to act as a positive role model and build strong, trusting relationships.
• Strong Communication: Excellent listening skills and a non-judgmental attitude.
• DBS Check: Must have or be able to obtain a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Travel Ready: Willing to participate in a 5-day UK residential trip and able to commute to Wallingford
• Team Player: Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team.

Note: Expenses will be covered.

About CARAS:

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in south-west London. We work primarily with people who are newly arrived in the UK, most of whom are living in temporary Home Office accommodation. Arriving as a refugee in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language barriers, accessing services, financial insecurity and ongoing uncertainty are extremely challenging and disempowering. CARAS is here to work collaboratively with community members to support them to build skills, connect meaningfully with their local community, and to build positive futures in the UK. 

CARAS offers a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background. For adults this currently includes: ESOL, digital skills and employability sessions; social and recreational activities and casework. All programs are interlinked and work hand-in-hand with one another. For example, community members can practice their spoken English in Coffee Afternoon, and casework issues might be picked up and referred into the team during an ESOL class. We design and develop our programs through consultation and ongoing conversations with our community members. We aim to have a strong volunteer presence across all our programs, fostering connections between asylum seekers and other Londoners! 

About CARAS’s Adult Programming and Coffee Afternoon:

CARAS has been providing support to adult refugee women since 2005, promoting skills and confidence development that helps women gain more power in their lives. In the aftermath of COVID, we have been able to expand our adult programmes, responding to the shifting demographics of those seeking asylum in the UK. We now run a range of mixed programmes for all genders, as well as some women-only spaces. Our coffee afternoon is a mixed group. 

Our coffee afternoon has been running since May 2022 and is one of our most popular groups. It takes place at TARA Theatre in Earlsfield from 1-2.30PM every Friday. Its primary aim is to reduce isolation amongst those we work with by providing a safe, friendly and welcoming space for people to have fun, learn about themselves and each other, and build connections.

In 2023, we have been running creative sessions during Coffee Afternoon, facilitated by freelance creative practitioners in partnership with TARA Theatre. These range from dance to drama, poetry to puppetry. For sessions without a creative practitioner, we sometimes host workshops on important topics such as healthcare rights or have an open and informal space for games and a chat. There is always coffee and a selection of baked goods! 

For more information on TARA Theatre, our partner and host, please visit their website.

Tasks and Responsibilities: 

• To attend CARAS coffee afternoon’s, every Friday between 1-2.30PM in Earlsfield, South-west London. They take place at TARA Theatre, right opposite Earlsfield Station. Location here- https://maps.app.goo.gl/rXwJiKHRj93YFtLG9 (356 Garratt Ln, London SW18 4ES). 
• If there is a week this is not possible, to tell CARAS staff as far in advance as you are able. 
• To welcome and connect with community members attending, working to ensure everyone at the group feels included. 

• To take part if there is a creative activity happening in that session, and help liaise with CARAS staff and the creative practitioner to ensure the activity runs smoothly. 
• To encourage and inspire community members to feel confident and reach their full potential. 
• To share conversation, and chat informally with our community members.
• To assist community members to both recognise and celebrate their achievements. 
• To challenge negative attitudes and behaviour in an appropriate manor. 
• To adhere to CARAS Confidentiality policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant. 

Requirements:

• To have interest in working with refugees and asylum seekers. 
• To be non-judgemental, and able and willing to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, and differing levels of English. 
• To be reliable and punctual. 
• To be a current resident in the UK. 
• To provide five years’ worth of addresses and be willing to undergo a UK DBS check.
• To attend CARAS General and Safeguarding Training, and any further training as necessary. 
• To be 18 years or older. 

Through volunteering with us you will:

• Meet new members of your local community 
• Learn about different cultures and life experiences from across the world 
• Learn about issues relating to refugee and asylum seekers 
• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team 
• Develop your skills and competencies 
• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding 

To Apply:

Please fill in the volunteer application form and email it to us. Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with the Head of Adult Inclusion and Adult Program Coordinator these meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP! 

Details for this role are in the description and not mentioned in the application form but please fill in your details in the Volunteer application form attached and send it back to us 

Role - Trustee (unremunerated)

Location - Hexham, Northumberland

Closing Date - 9am Monday 30 September 2024

Are you passionate about making a difference in an organisation that supports people with life-limiting illnesses and people who are experiencing bereavement? If this sounds like you, then we would be very interested to hear from you.

Tynedale Hospice at Home is a Northumberland-based charity providing nursing care in the home, Hospital Transport and Family Support Services to people living in the areas of West Northumberland, Tynedale and Ponteland.  We serve a community of around 70,000 people across 800 square miles of rural Northumberland. We are looking for Trustees to support and enhance the skill set of our current Board of Trustees and help drive our strategy forward. 

We are inviting applications from those with a professional background but would also warmly welcome applications from those offering other skills and experience and for whom this would be their first board role.  We are keen to welcome applications from all ages who can offer us something different to maintain board diversity as well as having a strong belief in the mission and vision of Tynedale Hospice at Home.  

We are looking for people who are able to bring different lived experiences, knowledge and ideas, who can work constructively and enthusiastically to help us navigate the changing and challenging external environment we find ourselves operating in.

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Please see the information pack for details of the role and how to apply.

Responsibilities:

• Lead a 2-hour weekly session during term time, following YoCO’s unique programme: ME (self-awareness), US (group dynamics), and THEM (community & global causes).
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and fun environment, supporting the personal development of all group members.
• Plan fundraising activities alongside your group and the YoCO support team, and attend events (some may be on weekends).
• Lead the group on a 5-day UK residential trip organized by YoCO.
• Regularly update YoCO staff on the group’s progress and address any issues.
• Attend an induction with the Group Manager, complete a DBS check, and receive First Aid and Safeguarding training (funded by YoCO).

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Passionate and Motivated: Enthusiastic about working with vulnerable young people, with a commitment to motivating and inspiring them to reach their full potential. Able to act as a positive role model and build strong, trusting relationships.
• Strong Communication: Excellent listening skills and a non-judgmental attitude.
• DBS Check: Must have or be able to obtain a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Travel Ready: Willing to participate in a 5-day UK residential trip and able to commute to Wallingford
• Team Player: Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team.

Note: Expenses will be covered.

As a Group Leader at Youth Challenge Oxfordshire (YoCO), you will play a key role in guiding and supporting young people through our 18-month program. This involves leading weekly 2-hour sessions in Faringdon, creating a safe and engaging environment, and driving personal development.

Responsibilities:

• Lead a 2-hour weekly session during term time, following YoCO’s unique programme: ME (self-awareness), US (group dynamics), and THEM (community & global causes).
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and fun environment, supporting the personal development of all group members.
• Plan fundraising activities alongside your group and the YoCO support team, and attend events (some may be on weekends).
• Lead the group on a 5-day UK residential trip organized by YoCO.
• Regularly update YoCO staff on the group’s progress and address any issues.
• Attend an induction with the Group Manager, complete a DBS check, and receive First Aid and Safeguarding training (funded by YoCO).

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Passionate and Motivated: Enthusiastic about working with vulnerable young people, with a commitment to motivating and inspiring them to reach their full potential. Able to act as a positive role model and build strong, trusting relationships.
• Strong Communication: Excellent listening skills and a non-judgmental attitude.
• DBS Check: Must have or be able to obtain a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Travel Ready: Willing to participate in a 5-day UK residential trip and able to commute to Faringdon
• Team Player: Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team.

Note: Expenses will be covered.

Tackle digital isolation by joining us as a Tech Angel in Surrey and use your digital skills to help people step out of digital poverty and into a world of connection. 

Surrey Coalition of Disabled People runs a project called Tech Angels that provides people with access to technology and training. Eligible adults in Surrey are loaned a touchscreen device, if needed, and are then matched to a Tech Angel. Our Tech Angel volunteers around Surrey visit these Tech Members at home and provide face-to-face basic digital support to help them access the internet.

We are looking for volunteers who: 

• are friendly and approachable 

• have excellent people skills 

• are passionate about helping others 

• are confident using touchscreen devices 

• enjoy teaching simple IT skills 

• are happy to visit Tech Members in their homes 

Typical topics that are covered in the Tech Angel sessions include 

• Basics - learning to use touchscreen, connecting to the internet, search engines 

• Staying safe online - scam awareness, password security 

• Accessing healthcare - eg NHS app, ordering prescriptions, booking GP appointments 

• Communication - email, instant messaging, videocalls, social media 

• Financial - shopping online, internet banking 

• Entertainment & hobbies - streaming services, taking photos, searching for interests online 

You will be provided with training and supported each step of the way by our friendly Volunteer Team. Why not get in touch today to find out more? 

REQUIREMENTS: 

DBS Enhanced Check 

No specialist skills required - just a willingness to help others explore and feel confident online 

BENEFITS: 

• Achieve recognised Digital Champion status, with access to further online training 

• Volunteer flexible hours to fit in around you 

• Meet and help people in your local community 

• Reimbursement of travel expenses 

• Opportunity to meet on occasion with other volunteers

• Full support via email or phone 

Help us ensure that we enable every community across Solihull to feedback on their experiences of using Health and Social Care services. Support Healthwatch Solihull to reach out into communities in our city, listen to diverse and vulnerable groups, and help make their voice known.

Community engagement takes place across all areas of Solihull borough (support with travel arrangements and out of pocket costs will be provided) and will involve working as part of a small team. Work will be carried out at different venues and locations including:

• Service user support groups, steering groups, meetings etc. accessed via our Third Sector partner organisations.

• Events: freshers fairs, open days etc.

• Public Venues: Hospitals, GP surgeries, Libraries, Community Centres etc

Tasks include:
• Collecting people’s experiences of health and social care services, at focus group meetings and events.
• Helping to ensure those who are at risk of health inequalities are listened to, involved, and empowered to help influence better services
• Supporting investigations guided by our research team.
• Promoting Healthwatch Solihull within the community and raising awareness of our services.

WHAT ARE HEALTHWATCH SOLIHULL LOOKING FOR?

• Are passionate about working with the public in community settings and have a desire to improve health and social care services.
• Are enthusiastic about the work of Healthwatch Solihull
• Are interested in developing a career in health and social care and/or community work.
• Are able to communicate and work with a wide range of individuals.
• Can proactively approach individuals, building rapport and conversation.
• Are interested in ensuring that everyone’s stories are listened to and shared.
• Are keen to learn more about their local community and broaden their knowledge of health and social care systems.
• Understand diversity and are flexible in their approach to meeting the needs of a wide range of individuals.
• Want to promote equality and improve the health and wellbeing of their local community.

NB. Community Engagement Volunteer roles are subject to a DBS check.

Help us ensure that we enable every community across Birmingham to feedback on their experiences of using Health and Social Care services. Support Healthwatch Birmingham to reach out into communities in our city, listen to diverse and vulnerable groups, and help make their voice known.

Community engagement will take place across all 10 districts of the city (support with travel arrangements and costs will be provided) and will involve working as part of a small team. Work will be carried out at different venues and locations including:

• Service user support groups, steering groups, meetings etc. accessed via our Third Sector partner organisations.

• Events: freshers fairs, open days etc.

• Public Venues: Hospitals, GP surgeries, Community Centres etc

Tasks include:
• Collect people’s experiences of health and social care services, at focus group meetings and events.
• Help ensure those who are at risk of health inequalities are listened to, involved, and empowered to help influence better services
• Supporting investigations guided by our research team.
• Promoting Healthwatch Birmingham within the community and raising awareness of our services.

WHAT ARE HEALTHWATCH BIRMINGHAM LOOKING FOR?

• Are passionate about working with the public in community settings and have a desire to improve health and social care services.
• Are enthusiastic about the work of Healthwatch Birmingham.
• Are interested in developing a career in health and social care and/or community work.
• Are able to communicate and work with a wide range of individuals.
• Can proactively approach individuals, building rapport and conversation.
• Are interested in ensuring that everyone’s stories are listened to and shared.
• Are keen to learn more about their local community and broaden their knowledge of health and social care systems.
• Understand diversity and are flexible in their approach to meeting the needs of a wide range of individuals.
• Want to promote equality and improve the health and wellbeing of their local community.

NB. Community Engagement Volunteer roles are subject to a DBS check.