Volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our amazing team of volunteers helps us run over 500 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help to raise vital funds. These funds are then used to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and their families across the UK.
Over 60 donation centres receive and distribute 100’s of bags of stock every single week. All of these donations need to be lifted and shifted so they end up in the right shops - we don’t require a weightlifter, but you will be need to be physically fit to help move the many donations we receive.
As well as working up a sweat, our donation centres also sell a variety of stock which all need processing and putting on the shop floor. Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till once in a while, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.
You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.
Why we want you
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 600 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
What you will be doing
- Sorting large amounts of donations and stock
- Work on the till processing sales and returns
- Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
- Create stylish window displays
- Replenish stock on the shop floor
- Stock-take and other administrative tasks
The skills you need
- Physically able to lift and carry large amounts of stock within our Health & Safety Guidelines
- Friendly and helpful
- Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
- Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
- Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks
What's in it for you
- Have fun and meet new people
- Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
- Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
- Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
- Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer
Location:
12-22 St Andrews Street, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, KA1 3EY, United Kingdom
Minimum age: 14 years
Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 500 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated & new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
Our retail stores are the face of our charity on the high-street and in local communities. We have loads of amazing stock donated to us every week, and this all needs to be sorted, tagged and put on the shop-floor for sale!
Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till too, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.
You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.
Why we want you
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 700 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
What you will be doing
- Work on the till processing sales and returns
- Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
- Create stylish window displays
- Replenish stock on the shop floor
- Stock-take and other administrative tasks
The skills you need
- Friendly and helpful
- Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
- Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
- Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks
What's in it for you
- Have fun and meet new people
- Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
- Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
- Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
- Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer
Location:
2 Trevor Row Crescent, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 2GH, United Kingdom
Minimum age: 14 years
Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 500 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated & new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
Our retail stores are the face of our charity on the high-street and in local communities. We have loads of amazing stock donated to us every week, and this all needs to be sorted, tagged and put on the shop-floor for sale!
Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till too, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.
You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.
Why we want you
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 700 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
What you will be doing
- Work on the till processing sales and returns
- Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
- Create stylish window displays
- Replenish stock on the shop floor
- Stock-take and other administrative tasks
The skills you need
- Friendly and helpful
- Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
- Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
- Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks
What's in it for you
- Have fun and meet new people
- Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
- Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
- Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
- Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer
Disclaimer
We look to recruit a diverse range of volunteers. If your skills don't fit the above, please do not let this put you off as we are able to be flexible with most of our roles. If you are unable to apply online through the link on this page, please visit your local store for a paper application form or contact the Barnardo's Volunteering Team on our website.
Location:
48 St. Peters Avenue, Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, DN35 8HP, United Kingdom
Minimum age: 14
Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 500 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated & new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
Our retail stores are the face of our charity on the high-street and in local communities. We have loads of amazing stock donated to us every week, and this all needs to be sorted, tagged and put on the shop-floor for sale!
Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till too, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.
You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.
Why we want you
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 700 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
What you will be doing
- Work on the till processing sales and returns
- Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
- Create stylish window displays
- Replenish stock on the shop floor
- Stock-take and other administrative tasks
The skills you need
- Friendly and helpful
- Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
- Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
- Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks
What's in it for you
- Have fun and meet new people
- Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
- Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
- Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
- Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer
Disclaimer
We look to recruit a diverse range of volunteers. If your skills don't fit the above, please do not let this put you off as we are able to be flexible with most of our roles. If you are unable to apply online through the link on this page, please visit your local store for a paper application form or contact the Barnardo's Volunteering Team on our website.
Location:
Unit 10-12 Castle Close, Monk Bretton, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S71 2QR, United Kingdom
Minimum age: 14
Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
At WWT we believe the best way for people to understand and connect to wetlands is to experience them, so we bring awe-inspiring nature up close. People feel part of something amazing and are motivated to make a difference. As a Membership and Retail Support
As a Membership and Retail Volunteer you will actively engage with our visitors and encourage them to support WWT as members. Enthusing them with stories of our conservation work and the many benefits of membership, you’ll help us secure the essential support we need to continue our ambitious plans for wetlands conservation.
And if you have an eye for something special and can offer excellent customer service to every one of our visitors, even better. You will also be a support to our retail team and help keep up the great work in offering a wide range of items for them to take home. Experience is always welcomed but not essential as training for this and our membership processes will be provided.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 500 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated & new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
Our retail stores are the face of our charity on the high-street and in local communities. We have loads of amazing stock donated to us every week, and this all needs to be sorted, tagged and put on the shop-floor for sale!
Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till too, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.
You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.
Why we want you
Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 700 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.
What you will be doing
- Work on the till processing sales and returns
- Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
- Create stylish window displays
- Replenish stock on the shop floor
- Stock-take and other administrative tasks
The skills you need
- Friendly and helpful
- Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
- Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
- Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks
What's in it for you
- Have fun and meet new people
- Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
- Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
- Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
- Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer
Location:
Unit 2 C One Stop Retail Park, Walsall Road, Birmingham, West Midlands, B42 1AA, United Kingdom
Minimum age: 14 years
Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our small friendly Charity Shop in South Westminster
As well as being an important source of revenue for the Centre, the shop on Horseferry Road is the public face of the Cardinal Hume Centre to the residents and workers of Westminster. It can be a very busy environment with lots of regular customers. You will be part of a friendly, international team! You will receive excellent support and opportunities to learn team skills and customer service. You can obtain a reference for future employers.
How does this role make a difference?
You will be part of the fundraising team, raising funds to support the work of the Cardinal Hume Centre and promoting the work of the Centre to the public. Typically, the Charity Shop raises in the region of £50,000 per year.
What will you be doing?
Flexibility will be given where possible, but in general, volunteers will undertake the following tasks as part of this role:
· Customer service on the till
· Cashing up at the end of the day and walking the takings round to the reception and handing in to Finance Team
· Greeting and helping customers
· Replenishing the stock on the shop floor
· Sorting donations
· Helping present top items in window display and around the shop
· Promoting the work of the Centre to the public
Want to increase your skills in retail?
If you want to develop in this role, we are keen to support you. There are more responsibilities you can take on in the shop, for example; opening and closing the shop, cashing up at the end of the day and helping with the induction of new volunteers. Let us know if this interests you. We also have employment advisors who can provide employment support. Furthermore, if you want to expand your experience in the voluntary sector, you can combine your role in the shop with a volunteer role elsewhere in the organisation.
What are we looking for?
No special qualifications are needed to work in our shop, as relevant training will be given, however, we will be asking for the following qualities:
· Over 16+
· Good spoken English needed – at least Entry Level 3
· The ability to contribute to a positive team culture and atmosphere
· Be able to provide a friendly, high-quality service to customers
· A commitment to equal opportunities and to treating all individuals who visit or work in the shop with dignity and respect
· Physically fit - able to lift light bags and boxes and to comfortably use the stairs between the shop floor and the stock room. Manual handling training will be given.
What is the time commitment?
The shop opening hours are 10am – 4.30pm, Monday – Friday. A full or half day (10 – 1pm or 1 – 4.30pm) is ideal, but we are flexible and are grateful for even a couple of hours help each week. Ideally, volunteers will commit to a period of at least 4 months.
How will you be supported?
· You will be supported and trained in all areas of retail and customer service by the Charity Shop Manager and the Assistant Shop Manager.
· You will receive a Centre induction from a Volunteer Coordinator
· You will be reimbursed for reasonable and agreed ‘out-of-pocket’ expenses such as travel and also lunch if working a full day.
· For volunteers who stay for more than three months, we are happy to provide a reference.
The Centre enables families, children and young people to overcome poverty and avoid homelessness.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Bright Futures UK is looking for compassionate and knowledgeable professionals in the gaming industry to mentor a young person living with long-term illnesses.
What will you be doing?
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Run mentoring sessions online to support a young person back into university
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Offer advice and insights related to game and character design or animation through tailored sessions
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Help the young person explore potential career paths in the gaming and animation industries
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Share your own experiences and knowledge to inspire and motivate.
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Adhere to safeguarding policies and report any concerns to BFUK
What are we looking for?
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Expertise in gaming industry: Profound knowledge and experience in the gaming industry preferably in areas like character design.
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Mentoring and Communication: Ability to mentor effectively, offering guidance and support to a young person with clarity and empathy.
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Flexibility and Commitment: Willingness to commit to 5-6 months of 1-hour sessions
What difference will you make?
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By volunteering as a Mentor, you’ll play a vital role in empowering a young person to take control of their health and future, helping them to achieve their goals despite the challenges they face.
As a charity that supports children and young people, we make safeguarding individuals our top priority. For this reason, all volunteers are subject to an enhanced criminal record and disclosures check. We also ask all volunteers to adhere to our Safeguarding, Equality and Confidentiality policies. These are nothing to worry about and if you have any questions, our team are happy to support you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We take children on voyages as readers and writers. Volunteer with us to join the adventure!
Who are Literacy Pirates?
Through our term-long after-school programmes, we develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance of children aged 9-13 who are falling behind in school and have fewer opportunities in their personal lives, so that they can succeed at school and beyond.
Children join us on our Virtual Ship once a week to practise their reading and writing. By welcoming them into our joyful spaces, publishing their work in the real world, and celebrating everything they do, we develop their literacy, confidence and perseverance.
What does a Volunteer do?
As a Volunteer Crewmate, your role is to join our online sessions and help children practise their reading and writing in small groups by providing constant encouragement, positivity and celebration of their achievements.
Sessions are led and managed by staff, which means your time is solely focused on supporting the children in breakout rooms.
You will:
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Receive full training.
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Gain experience working with children and leading small groups online.
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Develop your communication, leadership, problem-solving and digital skills.
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Take part in games and have fun.
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Be invited to virtual celebration events with the children to see the difference that you’ve made.
We offer employment references, for volunteers who have fulfilled their commitment of 12 sessions with us.
What are we looking for?
We ask volunteers to give just three hours per month, although you are welcome to volunteer as frequently as you like!
Sessions run every weekday during term time from 3:45 to 6:15 p.m. and you will have the flexibility to select which sessions you would like to attend. Please note, we do not run sessions during half terms or the Christmas, Easter and Summer holidays.
No experience is required to become a volunteer – just a desire to help children develop their reading and writing skills! Full training is provided.
All we ask is that you:
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Are aged 16+
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Must be a UK resident
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Complete a criminal background check (we cover the cost of this)
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Have access to a laptop or desktop computer with a working webcam and microphone (mobile devices are unsuitable for this role)
We develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance of children who are falling behind in class and have fewer opportunities in their personal lives.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
L’Arche Liverpool is a community where people with and without learning disabilities share life together, building meaningful relationships and supporting one another. We believe that everyone has gifts to share and that by living, working, and celebrating together we discover the value of each person.
As a volunteer, you will be welcomed into a vibrant, diverse, and supportive community. Volunteers play an important role in:
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Accompanying core members (people with learning disabilities) in daily life, activities, and social outings.
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Providing practical support (help with meals, appointments, or community events).
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Building friendships — sharing meals, conversations, and everyday life.
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Contributing your own gifts — whether that’s music, cooking, creativity, or simply your presence.
No prior experience is required — what matters most is openness, patience, and a willingness to learn and grow alongside others. In return, volunteers often discover that they receive as much as they give, through the relationships they build and the sense of belonging in community.
At L’Arche Liverpool, volunteering is more than helping — it’s about mutual friendship, growth, and inclusion.
To build a community where people with and without learning disabilities share life, grow together, and celebrate the unique value of every person.

Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We take children on voyages as readers and writers. Volunteer with us to join the adventure!
Who are Literacy Pirates?
Through our year-long after-school programme, we develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance of children aged 9-13 who are falling behind in class and have fewer opportunities in their personal lives, so that they can succeed at school and beyond.
Children join us in our fantastical, pirate-themed space in Hackney to practise their reading and writing. We also publish their work in the real world so that every Young Pirate finishes the programme a published author, journalist and film star!
What does a Volunteer do?
As a Volunteer Crewmate, your role is to come along to our sessions in Hackney and help children practise their reading and writing in small groups by providing constant encouragement, positivity and celebration of their achievements.
Sessions are led and managed by staff, which means you can dedicate the whole time you’re with us to providing direct support to the children.
You will:
-
Receive full training.
-
Gain experience working with children and leading small groups.
-
Develop your communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.
-
Take part in games and have fun.
-
Be invited to celebration events with the children to see the difference that you’ve made.
We offer employment references, for volunteers who have fulfilled their commitment of 12 sessions with us.
What are we looking for?
We ask volunteers to give just three hours per month, although you are welcome to volunteer as frequently as you like!
Sessions run every weekday during term time from 3:45 to 6:45 p.m. and you will have the flexibility to select which sessions you would like to attend. Please note, we do not run sessions during half terms or the Christmas, Easter and Summer holidays.
No experience is required to become a volunteer – just a desire to help children develop their reading and writing skills! Full training is provided.
All we ask is that you:
-
Are aged 16+
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Must be a UK resident, and are able to commute to our Hackney ship
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Complete a criminal background check (we cover the cost of this)
Our Hackney ship is located at:
138 Kingsland High Street
London
E8 2NS
We develop the literacy, confidence and perseverance of children who are falling behind in class and have fewer opportunities in their personal lives.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Your skills, knowledge and experience can help our charity thrive. Our information, advice, support and care makes a real and lasting difference and with your help we can continue to help change how we age.
What will you be doing?
Our Board is small, friendly and packed with experience so we are happy to welcome people new to governance or people with great governance experience keen to support our work.
o Our diverse range of services and income generation means we value a wide range of life experience in our Board
o Currently we are particularly interested in people with experience in human resources, finance, property management, digital technology and retail
To ensure our board is reflective of our local communities and workforce, we strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience of rural life, caring roles and people from ethnic minority communities
What are we looking for?
o Our diverse range of services and income generation means we value a wide range of life experience in our Board
o Currently we are particularly interested in people with experience in human resources, finance, property management, digital technology and retail
To ensure our board is reflective of our local communities and workforce, we strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience of rural life, caring roles and people from ethnic minority communities
What difference will you make?
Our Trustees are at the core of our charity. Good governance is vital to our present and future and we can't go forward without great people working together on the Board. Trustees work closely together and with our small, very hands-on head office team led by our CEO. We enjoy excellent relationships between our Trustees and our key staff which makes even the difficult times easier. Our Trustee's skills, experience, strategic role and interests help us navigate challenges and achieve sustainable futures for our services, and those services change lives. Every day.
Before you apply
Please contact the CEO if you have any questions.
External candidates, not applying via REACH will be asked to complete an application form. All candidates will complete a Trustee declaration form at the end of the selection process.
Trustees play a vital role in making a positive impact on the lives of the people we support. We do this through personalised, affordable care, sharing a home and family life, and supporting involvement in the local community.
What will you be doing?
About Shared Lives South WestShared Lives South West recruits, trains and supports individuals and families (Shared Lives Carers) who can offer accommodation and care for adults with care and support needs in their home, enabling the person to share in family life and maintain their independence. This is known as Shared Lives.If I join Shared Lives South West as a trustee what can I expect? You will be joining an enthusiastic and committed team of trustees. Induction and training for the role will be provided. The appointment will run for three years and be subject to an annual review with the Chair of the Board.
Two further terms of three years may be agreed. You will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement, declare any relevant business interests and complete an insolvency check as well as a charity related parties register prior to your first Board meeting. You will be required to declare, on an ongoing basis, any further relevant business interests and/or conflicts of interest that may arise.
You will help enrich the lives of people we support by becoming a part of this friendly charity known for providing high quality support to people as recognised by our current 'Outstanding' CQC award. You stand to also enrich your own life through the empowering and satisfying sector of volunteering as well as having access to training and development opportunities through SLSW.This is a voluntary post and would be offered subject to satisfactory references and DBS check.Trustees will be asked to commit to:• Endeavouring to be available for up to 7 meetings per year with a requirement to attend at least 50%• Endeavouring to be available for the annual Board Away Day• Be able to respond via email to discussion and potential issues between board meetings• Supporting SLSW staff by being able to be involved on an ad hoc basis in an identified area of interest• Being involved in one task and finish group/sub-group per annum if/as required• Complete an induction programme as required during the first six months of their appointment, including a visit to a SLSW household• Complete a programme of mandatory training, proportionate to the role, renewed every three years• Attend an annual review with the Chair
What are we looking for?
Trustees use skills and personal experience to:• Ensure SLSW complies with its governing document and all charity and other appropriate laws• Ensure compliance with the values, ethos and ethics of SLSW• Approve policies and plans to achieve strategic objectives, especially those with significant financial risk or risk management implications• Contribute to the development of SLSW strategy and business planning processes.• Scrutinise and sign off each year’s financial accounts prior to publication and acceptance and agree each year’s annual budget• Play your part in ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks• Help ensure the Board sets challenging goals and targets for the organisation and monitors these effectively• Participate in the recruitment of Leadership Team and other staff members as requiredWe are looking for new trustees who will complement our existing board. Previous board-level experience is welcome but not essential.We value fresh perspectives and provide the training and support needed to succeed. If you can commit time, bring curiosity and are willing to contribute your skills, we would love to hear from you.We welcome applications from adults of all backgrounds and identities and are striving to ensure our board reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.
What difference will you make?
Trustees have independent control and legal responsibility for the charity’s management and administration. They support the strategic development and success of SLSW through ensuring good strategic planning, effective governance and the monitoring of the performance of the organisation.As a trustee, you will work alongside the chair, vice chair and other trustees to bring good governance and strategic oversight. You will share responsibility with other trustees and the Leadership Team for the success of the organisation.Our service supports adults over 18 years of age and occasionally young people in transition into adult services from the age of 16 upwards. We currently support around 300 people on a long-term basis in around 270 shared lives homes and have up to a further 140 people using our short break services.We provide support to people with learning disabilities, people who have a diagnosis of dementia, a physical or sensory disability, mental ill health and parents who have a learning disability with their child.We currently have five contracts from local authorities across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset to support our work and a range of project funding totalling around £1.8 million per annum.
Before you apply
Please apply through Reach in the first instance. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete our additional short application form.
Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader. Roles available at colleges England.
Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom?
By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials.
Why it’s relevant to professionals like you
Further Education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts.
As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed.
This is an opportunity to:
- Apply your corporate skills in a charitable leadership role
- Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV
- Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility
- Support a vital sector during a time of transformation
What you’ll do
As part of a governing board, you’ll:
- Set strategic direction: Help define the college’s mission and goals
- Hold leadership to account: Monitor finances, performance, and outcomes
- Ensure governance excellence: Make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders
- Act as a charity trustee: Ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance
You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners.
Who we’re looking for
We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to:
- Finance, Audit & Risk
- HR, People & Culture
- Strategy, Transformation & Operations
- Technology, AI & Digital
- Legal, Governance & Compliance
- Marketing, PR & Communications
- Education, Apprenticeships or vocational courses
What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed.
Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed.
Time commitment
Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including:
- Attending board and committee meetings (in-person or remote)
- Reading papers and preparing questions
- Participating in training and occasional college visits
The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development.
Where you’ll be needed
Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly.
What’s in it for you?
· Enhance your board-level and governance experience
· Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role
· Expand your professional network
·Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact
· Gain exposure to the education, charity, and public sectors
Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role?
If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Become a Volunteer Digital Buddy with Catbytes!
Are you passionate about helping others? Do you want to make a real difference in your community?
We’re looking for friendly, patient people to join our team as Volunteer Digital Buddies. You’ll support individuals in Lewisham, South East London who have little or no experience with computers, smartphones, or the internet.
As a Digital Buddy, you’ll help people with everyday digital tasks like:
- Setting up an email account
- Using WhatsApp or other messaging apps
- Filling in online forms
- Navigating their smartphone, tablet, or laptop
No tech expertise needed — just patience and a willingness to help!
Only 2 hours per week
Must be able to travel to Lewisham
A great way to meet new people and give back to your community
Catbytes has been running digital drop-ins in Lewisham since 2014, and our volunteers are at the heart of what we do.
If you’re interested or want to learn more, please get in touch using the contact details below. We’d love to hear from you!
CatBytes aim is to assist those who are digitally excluded. We're also interested in ways digital technology can be used to tackle social exclusion.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.