Volunteer roles for the Housing and Homelessness sector

The Role

Our Lotus Community works alongside the City of Edinburgh Council to provide accommodation for 14 young people (aged 16-18), who are unaccompanied asylum-seekers. They come from a variety of different countries.

The community is a step towards independent living, whilst they await a decision about their ‘leave to remain’ in the country. The asylum procedure can be a long, complicated, overwhelming and challenging process. We support the young people in the best way during this stressful time (and after). They are supported by social workers and a guardianship service as well.

What will you do as a volunteer?

We are looking for highly motivated individuals who work well independently, are proactive and can get involved in community activities. You will support the residents of the community and help look after your shared spaces in the flats. Most of the residents have basic living skills, including cooking, cleaning and budgeting. We offer further support where needed.

We can also help them gain confidence and knowledge of the local area. This is to enable them to take further steps towards independence and integration in the local community. This is also with the purpose of them moving on to accommodation that better suits their needs in the future.

Depending on the season, and interests and abilities of the residents, your tasks can include:

• Being a peer mentor and staying in touch with the residents via WhatsApp
• Organise our monthly community meeting
• Organise activities, which can be walks, cycling, board games night, karaoke, tea and cake (whatever your interests) for the residents to come along.
• Reporting issues with the flat, repairs etc.
• Making sure that all rooms always have the equipment needed (cleaning products, toilet roll, hand sanitiser, condoms etc).
• Updating your (online) calendar for the week, so everyone knows when you are volunteering and not.
• Working together with your fellow volunteer(s) to organise activities and arrange rota.

What you get:

Location: You will live in a studio bedroom in the flat alongside the young residents. You will not pay for rent or bills (including internet).

Time: 20 hours per week for minimum 6 months. These are during the evening and weekends, with exception for a few hours spent in meetings and alike.

You can volunteer and work part time at the same time. You will organise your volunteering hours with the other volunteer.

We will provide support and training needed for you to engage with the tasks and young people in a safe manner. Support, supervision and team meetings are every month.

This is an opportunity to join the board of a small Housing Association operating in Birmingham. The Association provides general needs housing at social rents for people in need. 

What will you be doing?

You will be a trustee and member of the Board of Management of the association. 

The Board sets direction and ensures compliance with the values, mission and strategic objectives of the Association. The Board is accountable to the Regulator of Social Housing. 

We are seeking new board members with experience in property / asset management, preferably in the social housing sector to help us deliver our strategic objectives: 

• Provide high quality homes and services that meet the needs and aspirations of our tenants. 
• Invest in the quality, safety and environmental sustainability of our homes. 
• Demonstrate high standards of governance and business effectiveness to maintain a sound financial position and comply with relevant laws and regulations.  

The Board of Management meets five times a year plus additional training as and when required. We prefer board members to attend meetings in person but electronic attendance can be arranged when necessary. This is a volunteer role. 

Induction will be arranged for new members. 

No previous experience as a board member is required, however, on this occasion we are seeking candidates with professional experience in property/asset management, preferably in the social housing sector.  

If you can help us achieve our objectives, please apply to find out more about the role. 

We encourage people from all sections of our community to apply. 

What are we looking for?

You will have professional experience in property/ asset management, preferably in the social housing sector and a good understanding of the statutory and regulatory duties of social landlords relating to building safety.  In addition you will have the following skills and abilities: 

• be able to work effectively as a team member
• be able to think strategically 
• be able to understand and represent the interests of tenants
• respect diversity and value difference
• believe in the values and mission of the association 
• be able to act as a critical friend, having the confidence to ask questions constructively and challenge   when appropriate
• understand the environment that the association operates in

Knowledge of the regulatory framework for social housing is desirable. 

What difference will you make?

As a board member, you will support and shape our work and strategic direction. 

The role presents the opportunity to join a well established and effective team of trustees, it is a learning opportunity with the reward of making a real difference to the lives of existing and future residents of our homes. 

Before you apply

Expressions of interest via Reach Volunteering, followed by shortlisting and interview. Appointment will be subject to a fit and proper persons declaration. 

This role supports Aspire’s commitment to healing, dignity and community resilience. Volunteers help facilitate or support creative and wellbeing activities that foster connection, confidence and recovery

This role supports Aspire’s external messaging and local relationships, helping us stay visible, responsive, and connected. Volunteers in this role contribute to communications, digital content, and engagement with potential allies and funders.

This role is key to building Aspire’s visibility in the local community and connecting with individuals who may be in need of support but unaware of available services. Outreach volunteers help create a warm, informed bridge between Aspire and the public.

The Clifford Heart Foundation

The Clifford Heart Foundation addresses a range of urgent social challenges affecting underserved communities, particularly individuals and families facing homelessness, poverty, food insecurity, and lack of access to basic resources in Florida, USA. We recognize the systemic barriers that leave people without stable housing, proper hygiene, emotional support, or community reintegration opportunities. Our programs offer not just relief but also dignity, empowerment, and long-term solutions.

By providing essentials like care baskets, meals, community events, mentorship, and advocacy, we help people navigate hardship and rebuild their lives. Additionally, we aim to reduce the social isolation and stigma that often accompany homelessness by fostering a culture of compassion, community involvement, and systemic change. Our work is rooted in empathy and driven by the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, supported, and given a fair chance.

To Our Volunteers �� We’re a small but mighty nonprofit and we mean it. Most of the work we do is powered by just a few hands, a lot of heart, and a deep commitment to serving our community. That’s why your support means everything.

You're not just filling a role, you're helping us grow, scale, and reach more people who truly need us.

Whether you’re editing a video, sending an email, or showing up to serve, your time and energy matter deeply. We’re building something special, and we’re so grateful to have you as part of it.

We see you. We appreciate you. We’re growing because of you.

With love, Kytana & The Clifford Heart Foundation Team

Assistant (Operations & Admin)

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Be the organized magic behind the mission. We’re looking for an Assistant who’s down to help keep things running smoothly. This role supports the founder directly and is perfect for someone who’s organized, proactive, and wants to get hands-on experience in nonprofit work, event planning, and social impact.

✨ What you'll do:

• Help with scheduling, outreach emails, and basic admin tasks
• Coordinate logistics for events, donations, and volunteer activities
• Assist with social media planning and content uploads when needed
• Keep track of supplies, vendors, and community requests
• Provide general support to help the team stay focused and moving

�� Bonus if you:

• Love organizing and can stay on top of a to-do list
• Are comfortable using Google Drive, email, Canva, etc.
• Want to learn how nonprofits are built from the inside out

Weekly Time Commitment

4-6 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

3-5 months

About Refugees at Home

We are a leading provider of hosting with an annual income of £1 million, dedicated to the prevention of homelessness for those claiming asylum or with Refugee status by offering temporary placements within our volunteer hosts homes. We recruit and support volunteer hosts who are willing to offer a temporary home and a helping hand.  Our role is to carefully match each guest and host, to assess and prepare them ready for hosting, to advise on hosting arrangements and accommodation, and to provide ongoing support to hosts throughout each stay. We provide support to our guests across all four nations of the UK.

We spread awareness of hosting and the issues facing our guests through thoughtful and considered communications, both within our sector and externally. 

We are looking for a passionate and experienced Communications professional to join our Board of Trustees. We are open to the type of experience candidates may posses and recognise the importance of transferrable skills. 

We particularly encourage applications from those with lived experience. 

Join the Board of ScotsCare, a historic charity making a real impact for Scots in London.

Applications close on: Monday 14th July 2025

Location: London EC1Y 2AJ

Time commitment: c.1 day per month

About ScotsCare

For over four centuries, ScotsCare has been a beacon of hope for Scots navigating life’s challenges in London. Our journey began in the early 17th century, and today, we stand as a testament to resilience, compassion, and community support.

Our mission goes beyond simple financial aid. We understand that true support means addressing the complex, interconnected challenges individuals and families face. Whether it’s a family struggling with complex issues, a homeless individual seeking support, or an older person experiencing isolation, ScotsCare offers a holistic approach to support.

Our work spans multiple dimensions of care. We provide financial grants to alleviate immediate economic pressures, but we don’t stop there. Our team of dedicated professionals offer bespoke mental health services, including substance misuse, job coaching, housing and homelessness support, and advocacy services. We see each person as an individual with unique strengths and potential, not just a set of challenges to be solved.

The heart of ScotsCare is our people – both staff and volunteers. We’re constantly seeking passionate professionals who believe in our mission of breaking cycles of deprivation. Our team represents diverse backgrounds and skills, united by a common goal: creating meaningful opportunities for Scots in London.

We operate three sheltered housing sites, provide psychotherapy sessions, and run community-building programmes like our ScotsCare choir. These initiatives are more than services; they’re pathways to reconnection, healing, and empowerment.

About the role

As we establish our newly formed Property Sub-Committee, we are looking for a new Trustee to join our board and committee.

As a Trustee, this is an opportunity to be part of shaping ScotsCare’s vision.

Who we are looking for

We seek an individual passionate about supporting Scots in London with executive-level property experience to join our existing, skilled, and diverse team of Trustees.

Experience in property, asset management, estates management, housing and/or development or construction will be vital in ensuring the property strategy is congruent with strategic direction.

You will demonstrate an ability to provide constructive challenge, offering insights that support. Communication is key, so we are looking for a Trustee who is personable, approachable, and able to work seamlessly with our Chief Executive and property lead.

You will be a trusted advisor who brings both professional rigor and a genuine commitment to the charity’s goals, helping to drive ScotsCare’s vision and supporting its important work for Scottish communities.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close on Monday 14th July 2025.

About Crisis

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We believe everyone should have somewhere safe and warm to call home and are committed to ending homelessness. Every year we work side by side with thousands of people from all sections of our communities to help them rebuild their lives and leave homelessness behind for good.

You will contribute to ending homelessness by...

Helping us better respond to the needs of the people accessing our services. You know your community better than we do - by identifying and creating connections with a network of Eritrean organisations and community groups, such as churches and support groups, we’ll be better able to support Eritrean people who are experiencing homelessness or who are at imminent risk of becoming homeless.

Timings

Flexible, but approx. 7 hours per week – this may include evenings and/or weekends depending on the availability of community groups/organisations.

Location

Skylight London, 50 Commercial St, London E1 6LT and remote/community-based .

Responsible to

Eritrean Community Connection Volunteer Supervisor.

Core tasks

• With the Volunteer Supervisor, hold focus groups with Crisis members to identify potential contacts within Eritrean community groups and increase our knowledge and cultural awareness of the Eritrean community
• Proactively source and arrange meetings with different Eritrean community groups to:

1. Help link these organisations with Crisis so that information can be shared about the realities of homelessness in London and the work of Crisis Skylight
2. Gain valuable knowledge about cultural sensitivities so that we can improve staff awareness and better support people from the Eritrean community

Who we are looking for

To be successful in this role we’re looking for someone who:

• Is fluent in English and Tigrinya and/or Amharic and can translate and interpret between them
• Is knowledgeable about the culture and practices in the countries where Tigrinya/ Amharic are spoken
• Has the confidence and motivation to source opportunities to link with Eritrean organisations and community groups and represent Crisis independently
• Has excellent communication skills and is confident networking and talking to new people
• Has good IT skills with the ability to use email and the internet proficiently
• Is organised and reliable, non-judgemental, patient and friendly
• Is passionate about ending and preventing homelessness for people from the Eritrean community
• Understands the importance of adhering to policies and processes, including confidentiality, safeguarding, data protection and professional boundaries
• Is able to commit to the role for 6 months

What you will gain

Engaging your community with a cause you are passionate about is an incredibly rewarding experience. It is a good way to affect change at a local level, improve services and inspire others to consider how they too can take action to end homelessness.

• This is a new volunteering role, which you have the unique opportunity to help develop
• Opportunities to learn about the causes and effects of homelessness and how to engage others in the conversation
• Networking experience for a national organisation including public speaking and relationship management
• The opportunity to share your existing or develop new skills in a friendly and supportive environment
• Regular meetings to discuss how your volunteering is going and what other opportunities and training may be available to you
• Being part of a wide network of staff, volunteers and supporters all working together to end homelessness
• A reference for volunteering at a national organisation

Additional information

• Following a successful interview and references, completion of essential e-learning and training is required before starting the role
• A Crisis IT account will be issued for the role and must be used for all communications and record keeping connected with the role
• Out of pocket travel expenses and meal allowance will be reimbursed in line with our expenses policy
• We encourage people from all backgrounds to apply and particularly welcome Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, LGBTQ+, disabled and male applicants as well as those with lived experience of homelessness as these are currently under-represented groups in our volunteer pool

Applicants will be contacted w/c 30th June 2025.

Join us at Newbury Racecourse for a fundraising bucket collection! As a volunteer, you'll receive a ticket to the event, giving you the chance to watch some of the races while supporting a great cause. 

Role Details: 
Volunteers will assist by collecting donations from the public using buckets and card machines. Collections will take place after the races. 

Availability: Flexible shifts available between 6:00 PM – 1:30 PM 
Location: Newbury Racecourse, Racecourse Rd, Newbury RG14 7NZ
Supervised by: Community and Events Assistant 

It’s fantastic that you’d like to find out more about volunteering at St Mungo’s. As a Move on Volunteer, you will be using your own lived experience of moving on to support our clients. We are looking for short-term volunteers to help us find new ways of supporting our clients on a 1-2-1 basis and of developing their independent living skills to move on away from homelessness.

*This opportunity is only open to people who have lived experience of homelessness.

Please see all locations and the time commitments we are currently recruiting for in this role:

London-Monday-Friday, between 9am-5pm, minimum 4 hours per week. 

In this role, you will be supporting with all or some of the following tasks:

• Reaching out to clients living in some of our services and supporting them develop important life skills so they can move on to an independent life away from homelessness when ready. • Working with specific clients on building their confidence, looking after their health and wellbeing, managing their budget and own accommodation (e.g. tenancy agreement obligations and rights). • Exploring local learning services and community groups, supporting these clients to get involved and creating resources to empower them to continue their involvement. • Meeting with progression coaches and project workers to record and review move on progress and actions. • Adhering to St Mungo’s Policies and Procedures at all times.

Do I need to have any specific skills?

• Lived experience of moving on from homelessness • Good literacy and numeracy skills. • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written. • Reliable IT skills and experience in online searches and completing online forms. • A friendly personality, good interpersonal skills with enthusiasm and motivation. • An understanding of the causes of homelessness and its impact. • Genuine interest in and commitment to St Mungo’s work and client group. • An understanding of and commitment to diversity & equality. 

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers who are passionate about physical activity and community wellbeing.

Project Resilience provides easily accessible opportunities for our hostel residents to take part in a variety of social and sporting activities to boost overall health and wellbeing.

You will play a key role in promoting healthy lifestyles by delivering fun, inclusive, and accessible physical activity sessions for people of all ages and abilities.

We would welcome qualified instructors from a range of activities such as:

·Boxercise

·Yoga

·Pilates

·Dance

·Football

·Basketball

·Circuit Classes

·Supported Gym workouts

However if you have another sport or activity that you would like to offer our residents, please get in touch!

This role offers a dynamic and rewarding opportunity to inspire and mentor vulnerable residents, contributing to their health and personal growth. Your commitment to excellence in coaching and resident engagement will not only enhance your professional skills but also make a significant impact on the community. 

You will :

·Plan and lead, safe, engaging fitness sessions for small groups of residents

·Adapt exercises to suit varying levels of mobility, ability, and health conditions.

·Monitor participants' safety and wellbeing during sessions.

·Encourage participation and build confidence through motivation and support.

·Log attendance and feedback as required.

·Work in line with safeguarding, health and safety, and risk assessment protocols.

Skills required:

·Recognised Fitness Qualification, Exercise Class Qualification or Sports Qualification, recognised in the UK 

What we will provide:

·Access to communal garden area and nearby fields for outdoor activities

·Access to a small internal gym (bench, weights, exercise equipment)

·You will be required to undertake mandatory e-learning and a menu of optional training will be made available

·Ongoing supervision and support from your line manager

·Travel expenses reimbursed (if applicable).

·Access to events, networking, and training and development opportunities.

Please note, you will be required to undergo a DBS check and we will need details of 2 x referees.

As a Volunteer Health Walk Leader, you will play a key role in supporting our residents to become more active and improve their wellbeing through social walks!

Project Resilience provides easily accessible opportunities for our hostel residents to take part in a variety of social and sporting activities to boost overall health and wellbeing.

You’ll help lead short, safe, and friendly group walk, especially for those who may be inactive, recovering from illness, or looking to improve their physical and mental health.

You will:

·Plan and lead regular health walks in your local area

·Welcome and support all participants, ensuring a positive and inclusive atmosphere

·Carry out basic safety checks and risk assessments for walk routes

·Encourage conversation and connection among walkers

Monitor attendance and report back to the coordinator as required

Skills required:

·First Aid Qualification

·Friendly, approachable, and reliable

·Good communication and people skills

·An interest in walking and promoting healthy lifestyles

·Able to walk at a steady pace for 30–60 minutes

What we offer:

·A full induction to the role and site will be provided

·Access to communal garden area and nearby fields for outdoor activities

·You will be required to undertake mandatory e-learning and a menu of optional training will be made available

·Ongoing supervision and support from your line manager

·Travel expenses reimbursed (if applicable).

·Access to events, networking, and training and development opportunities.

Please note, that you will be required to undergo a DBS check and we will require details of 2 x referees.

Summary

The gardening and growing volunteer will support our accommodation sites in maintaining their outdoor spaces at our sites across Hertfordshire and Bucks including

Brindle Court, Watford
Northgate End, Bishop's Stortford
Our smaller sites in Stevenage, Hoddesdon and Hemel Hempstead 
Crest Rd, High Wycombe

Detailed description

Having access to a secure garden or outdoor area can be crucial for providing opportunities to socialise and relax, which can be invaluable for the mental well-being of our residents.

The gardening and growing volunteer will support our accommodation sites in maintaining their outdoor spaces, including:

·Weeding

·Sweeping

·Pruning

·Clearing leaves and large twigs

·Watering plants

·Planting bulbs and tidying up flower beds

We would love for this to be an opportunity to involve our residents and potentially lead a gardening activity with them, equipping them with knowledge and skills to maintain their own green spaces in the future. 

You will need:

• Enjoy working outside in all weathers.
• An interest/basic knowledge of gardening
• Role requires some degree of physical work and lifting/manual handling
• To work under your own initiative.
• Good communication skills
• Opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills

A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided as well as access to training and events throughout the year!

Some sites have basic tools however any additional tools and material required can be discussed with your volunteer manager .

What volunteers need:
You will be required to under go a Disclosure and Barring Service check and provide details of 2 x referees

What we will provide to volunteers:

• Reimbursement of costs
• Full training and induction
• Access to events and celebrations throughout the year