Social Care/Development Volunteer Roles in South East

Men Who Talk is a UK registered charity, running twice monthly online peer-to-peer support groups for men aged 18+ across the UK. The groups take places between 7:00 - 8:30pm during week nights.

Our groups are supportive spaces for men aged 18+ to come and talk openly about what's on their mind. All groups are free to attend and follow the evidence based model of peer support. 

Volunteers are required to be online from 6:45pm to 8:45pm, and are required to facilitate around 1 group per month. Volunteers are asked to commit to an a minimum of 6 months of volunteering in the initial stage. 

All groups are facilitated by 2 facilitators, and follow a semi-structured pattern.

We are looking for passionate men with some experience of groups facilitating or working in mental health settings to come join us as facilitators. Experience in using online platforms such as zoom is essential. 

A degree in psychology is preferred but not an essential requirement.

Why Join MWT? 

Men Who Talk is an exciting, fast growing charity, creating new spaces for men to talk openly about what's on their mind. 

We have a diverse team full of talented and passionate individuals who are committed to changing the face of mens mental health across the UK. 

As well as the opportunity to join the organisation at an exciting stage of it's development, volunteers also have the opportunity to develop their own skills and have regular chances to feed into the creative and strategic development of the organisation. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are only able to accept applications from individuals who already have the right to live and work in the UK. 

Could you help prevent loneliness and isolation for people living with BPD and become a befriender?

• Do you have 1-2 hours a week to give to a service user suffering from BPD and feeling isolated or lonely?
• Can you offer support, through a listening ear and be a positive influence in a service users life to help build self-esteem and confidence?
• Will you enable our service users to benefit from knowing someone is there to listen, be a friend, and check in on their wellbeing?

If you can answer ‘yes’ to these questions, then we would love to hear from you!

Key responsibilities

Your role will include, but is not restricted to the following tasks:

• Carry out weekly checks with the service users you are supporting, this may be over the telephone or via Teams.
• Engage the service user and help empower them
• Help service users to rediscover social skills and confidence by building up and maintaining a close relationship
• Keep accurate records of calls and sessions
• Report any concerns to the Volunteer Coordinator

Skills required

No qualifications or volunteering experience is required, but the following skills are essential:

• Be aged over 18
• Must have lived in UK for 2+ years
• A non-judgemental approach
• Good listening and communication skills
• Empathetic and compassionate
• Reliable and trustworthy
• Respect confidentiality
• Be able to work on own initiative
• Ability to build effective working relationships with service users
• A DBS check and 2 references are required for this role

What we offer

• a comprehensive induction program
• training on safeguarding, confidentiality, health and safety and other training relevant to the role
• ongoing support and supervision
• the chance to meet other volunteers and take part in volunteer events
• reimbursement of pre-agreed expenses

Do you enjoy meeting new people and chatting?

Do you have an hour to spare weekly, chatting to an Older Person on the Telephone?

Are you happy to provide two referees and complete a DBS check, ( free of charge)?

If so, we would love to hear from you?

Methodist Homes (MHA) is seeking Volunteer Telephone Befrienders to support our members and residents in various locations nationwide.

Through specialist care homes, thriving retirement living and vibrant community groups and befriending, we inspire the best care and wellbeing at every stage of later life.

With 80 years experience, we put people at the heart of everything we do in all our homes, schemes and community services across Britain.

The ideal individual will have an understanding of the needs of Older People, be kind and compassionate and enjoy the company of Older People.

What training and support will be provided:

• We will provide you with a full induction for the role
• Training on safeguarding, health and safety and other training and updating of skills and knowledge relevant to the role as appropriate
• Ongoing support from a named contact
• Dementia Friends online course-(if you wish)
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (as needed)

Times and Commitment

· We ask that you make a minimum of 4-6 months commitment to this role

· We ask you to be able to commit on a regular basis, to be agreed with your named contact

We will guide you through an application which takes 2-3 weeks. You will have a dedicated Recruiter, who will meet you on a video call.

Are you interested in giving back to your local community?  Then we coudl have the volunteering opportunity for you!

We are recruiting trustee members with:

• Excellent critical thinkning and problem-solving skills.
• An interest in social care and / or epilepsy.
• Good knowledge of business risks, trends and practices.
• A passion for continuous improvement.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities and are committed to equality and diversity. 

To register your interest in becoming a trustee, please contact Catherine Agca, Operations Manager. 

Bright Futures UK works with young people who have been forced to take time out from education due to chronic illness. We provide programmes to help stimulate learning in addition to having a social aspect that offers respite to isolation these young people face due to their unfortunate circumstances.

We are urgently looking for a warm and energetic volunteer tutor to provide educational support and a fun, safe space for these young people. Tutoring experience is not essential as full training is given. Our sessions also are all currently online.

We need someone who is able to engage with young people in a positive and friendly way, helping them overcome their experiences and not feel defined by their illness. You would engage with a young person on a one-to-one basis to help catch up on their studies, increase their confidence in their own skills, and have some fun with them in order to help them progress.

The young people we work with have missed so many experiences in school which we take for granted. The time you can offer to help fill in those missed periods is invaluable to their development. Your sessions will be fully supported by Bright Futures UK staff – from questions or queries, resources or materials or just to bounce an idea off the team, we’re here to help.

Volunteering with Bright Futures UK is something that can easily fit into your working day or a busy schedule with commitment starting from as little as 1 hour per week. We are so grateful for any support you might be able to provide, as are our young people.

We’re looking forward to working with you to help our young people reach their true potential! 

Please apply directly using the following link: https://bttr.im/0ukk3 

Practical Considerations:

We cover all expenses and materials used.

We are asking for one hour online a week.

DBS will be provided where needed.

Safeguarding training provided with certification.

Must be 18 or over to volunteer.

Driver

Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?

Where?

Milton Keynes (Peartree Bridge and/or Stantonbury Fields)

What you will be doing?

Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.

What skills and experience are needed?

· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual

· Willingness to work independently

· Full Driver’s License

· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance

What will you gain from the role?

· A chance to make a difference

· Sense of purpose

· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing

· Working with people with sight loss

What support will be given?

· Induction

· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding

· Ongoing training and development opportunities

· Expenses

· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.

Criminal Record Check Information/DBS

This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.

Driver

Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?

Where?

Chesham

What you will be doing?

Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.

What skills and experience are needed?

· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual

· Willingness to work independently

· Full Driver’s License

· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance

What will you gain from the role?

· A chance to make a difference

· Sense of purpose

· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing

· Working with people with sight loss

What support will be given?

· Induction

· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding

· Ongoing training and development opportunities

· Expenses

· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.

Criminal Record Check Information/DBS

This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.

Driver

Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?

Where?

Princess Risborough  

What you will be doing?

Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.

What skills and experience are needed?

· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual

· Willingness to work independently

· Full Driver’s License

· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance

What will you gain from the role?

· A chance to make a difference

· Sense of purpose

· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing

· Working with people with sight loss

What support will be given?

· Induction

· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding

· Ongoing training and development opportunities

· Expenses

· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.

Criminal Record Check Information/DBS

This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.

Driver

Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?

Where?

Chalfont St Giles Memorial Hall

What you will be doing?

Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.

What skills and experience are needed?

· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual

· Willingness to work independently

· Full Driver’s License

· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance

What will you gain from the role?

· A chance to make a difference

· Sense of purpose

· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing

· Working with people with sight loss

What support will be given?

· Induction

· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding

· Ongoing training and development opportunities

· Expenses

· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.

Criminal Record Check Information/DBS

This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.

Driver

Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?

Where?

Marlow

What you will be doing?

Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.

What skills and experience are needed?

· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual

· Willingness to work independently

· Full Driver’s License

· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance

What will you gain from the role?

· A chance to make a difference

· Sense of purpose

· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing

· Working with people with sight loss

What support will be given?

· Induction

· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding

· Ongoing training and development opportunities

· Expenses

· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.

Criminal Record Check Information/DBS

This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.

Driver

Do you enjoy driving? Why not combine the good you can do through volunteering with a chance to explore your local area, engaging in good conversation, by driving blind and partially sighted people from their homes to local activities using your own vehicle?

Where?

Aylesbury, driving members to their weekly bowls meeting and social clubs

What you will be doing?

Drive to BucksVision social groups and activities; sighted guiding.

What skills and experience are needed?

· Friendly and professional attitude, reliable and punctual

· Willingness to work independently

· Full Driver’s License

· Valid MOT certificate and proof of insurance

What will you gain from the role?

· A chance to make a difference

· Sense of purpose

· Build confidence, and improve wellbeing

· Working with people with sight loss

What support will be given?

· Induction

· Training Day, including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding

· Ongoing training and development opportunities

· Expenses

· Support from your Volunteer Manager and local Divisional volunteers.

Criminal Record Check Information/DBS

This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Check (Enhanced working with adults), as it involves supporting vulnerable people in a 1-2-1 basis.

Could you be an Action for M.E. Trustee?

Are you impatient for change, passionate and have time to spare to make a positive impact?  Around 1.3 million children and adults in the UK with M.E. and M.E.-like symptoms following Covid-19 urgently need people like you.

Action for M.E. is the only UK charity support children and adults with M.E., through information, support, advocacy and healthcare services while working to secure change for the future. Over half of our Board of Trustees have direct experience of M.E.

We are a small organisation that regularly punches above its weight, working on a national and international scale and are delighted to be working with staff, volunteers and our Board of Trustees team who are passionate, dedicated and determined. We have high aspirations and ambitions and believe that Action for M.E. can, and will, make a major contribution to creating the change that is so desperately needed.

As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in guiding Action for M.E. to deliver critical services to meet present needs, while working to secure change for the future.

You will work as part of a dynamic Board of Trustees, helping to shape the strategic direction of the charity, bring fresh ideas and perspectives, ensure effective governance and financial stewardship and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

We're looking for up to three individuals, from diverse backgrounds and experiences. We have a particular need for those who bring skills in either one or more of the following areas: research, science, local/national government, policy/advocacy and communications. These will complement the skills we currently have on the Board.

Are you committed to making a difference? Do you want to accelerate change? If you are ready to contribute your time and expertise to this worthwhile cause, we want to hear from you.

Join us in our mission to transform lives. Become our Charity Trustee today!

Please review the application pack attached for further instructions on how to apply to become our next Action for M.E. trustee.

We are a Disability Confident employer and welcome any reasonable adjustment requests required to take part in this recruitment process. 

The closing date for applications is 30 April 2024, with interviews happening on a rolling basis. 

QuilomboUK is looking for a Bid Writer, who loves to face work challenges; to join their growing team. QuilomboUK works with the objective to promote different arts, sports and cultures to encourage an inter-cultural understanding between different communities and societies; To promote cultural awareness in the community and educate, regardless of nationality or origin, about race diversity and mutual respect; To promote good health and wellbeing; and run a community organisation with a strong focus on individuals, the community and society as a whole.

The Bid Writer/ Coordinator will play a critical role by assisting the manager to prepare the proposal that helps the organization to further develop and establish.

This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; love to 'give back to their community'. The role is for you if you are looking for flexibility and autonomy. Where necessary specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set. 

16 weeks contract.

Main Responsibilities

• Apart from writing proposals, you will also be reviewing and editing previously written content wherever necessary.

• Working with other team members to produce bid responses and writings

• Helps in writing funding applications for the varied projects that we run in order to meet our organisational objectives.

• Also helps in presentations and all supporting documentation.·          

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• You will need to have good written skills

• Able to write effective, concise and compelling content

• You will be self-starting and willing to research and look for new funding opportunities that match our aims and objectives;

• Ability to work on tight deadlines

• Well organized, proactive and able to deliver tasks efficiently.

• Able to speak confidently with a variety of stakeholders.

• Good time-management skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and excel.

• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments

• Strong team player

• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.

• Accurate and attention to detail

 Can work without much supervision

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday, Wednesday and/or Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Who are Midland Mencap?

Midland Mencap is a charity which works and campaigns for accessible and inclusive services and a better quality of life for everyone with experience of learning disabilities and additional needs.

Purpose of the role.

To connect people wanting to cycle more with volunteer Bike Buddies who want to help them. We have people from many different backgrounds wanting support with their cycling for many reasons.  

For example:

· Coming back to cycling after time off

· Disability or ill health

· Finding quiet roads and cycle paths around the neighbourhood

· Building up confidence on busy roads

· Sharing experiences of things like cycling at night or what clothes to wear

· Checking bikes together before a ride

Bike Buddies provide crucial support and motivation to help people to participate in inclusive and adapted outdoor cycling. Volunteers support cyclists to achieve their fitness goals and enjoy cycling in our community.

Our Bike Buddies are great ambassadors for cycling, sharing their expertise of local routes and giving others the confidence to get around by bike.

If you feel confident cycling on the road or in a park with someone else, and are wanting to give back to others, this is the role for you.

What would I be doing?

You’ll need to find out what they want to do and where they want to go. Some people want to explore quiet streets locally or plan a longer journey. You may ride to the park or show them local routes – quiet ways, new cycle lanes and off-road paths are popular.

They may want to try out junctions or crossing busy roads – think about how to ride those safely. You may support a person at one of our pre-arranged Parkride cycle meetings and help them to develop the skills and confidence to cycle safely and independently.

What do I need?

This role will require:

· A roadworthy bike and riding equipment.

· Experience of regular cycling

· Some experience of cycle maintenance

·       A cycling competence session with parkride staff

· Friendly, calm, and patient

· A good listener & happy to chat

· Accepting of people who may be different to you

· Willing to learn and act within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· Good time management skills, reliability

· An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.

When and where do you need me?

Either at organised events or 1-2-1 within your local area.

Ideally you can meet once or twice a month for approx. 2 hours.

We have parkride sessions running throughout the week including evenings and weekends.

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

• The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with disabilities and their family carers

• An induction and settling in period

• Any training and development that is needed

• The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

• The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

• Support within your role

• Any out-of-pocket travel expenses

• Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

• Positive wellbeing from doing something great

• Improve career opportunities by adding your volunteer role to a CV