Volunteer roles

Please note: this role covers areas in Worcestershire and Herefordshire only. 

Relevant Persons Representative (RPR) Volunteers ‘looks out’ for an older or disabled person living in a Residential and Nursing care home, making sure they are getting the right care and support and are being treated fairly. This role provides support for people with a Deprivation Of Liberty Safeguard (DOLS) in place. A DOLS is a deprivation of Liberty Safeguarding meaning the person you support is unable to leave of their own free will. A DOLS is put in place to protect individuals from harm or abuse. 

Benefits of volunteering with Advocacy Services

• Be part of a growing charity with ever expanding exciting new projects!
• You are provided with FREE training
• Reimbursed for public transport fair and/ or partial mileage costs
• Get experience in the field of mental health
• References are available from us on request
• Fulfilment in helping your local community
• Meet new and likeminded people - we hold regular volunteer catch ups to have your say and meet other volunteers
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme benefits

Overview of Onside

ONSIDE is an independent charity promoting the rights and interests of people facing disadvantage. We believe that everyone is entitled to fair, equal treatment and opportunity. Our skilled staff and volunteers make a real difference to the lives of over 11,000 people a year across Worcestershire and Herefordshire. 

Please note: this role covers Worcestershire and Herefordshire only. 

An Independent Health Complaints Advocate (IHCA) Volunteer works across Worcestershire or Herefordshire to support adults who want to complain about their NHS care or treatment. This is a free and confidential service independent of the NHS. 

We are seeking people who have:

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Empathetic
• You will have, or be willing to learn, basic computer literacy skills in order to log your contact / work on our database system.
• Organised and resourceful 

Benefits of volunteering with the Adovacy Services

• Be part of a growing charity with ever expanding exciting new projects!
• You are provided with FREE training
• Reimbursed for public transport fair and/ or partial mileage costs
• Get experience in the field of mental health
• References are available from us on request
• Fulfilment in helping your local community
• Meet new and likeminded people - we hold regular volunteer catch ups to have your say and meet other volunteers

Overview of Onside

Onside is an independent charity promoting the rights and interests of people facing disadvantage. We believe that everyone is entitled to fair, equal treatment and opportunity. Our skilled staff and volunteers make a real difference to the lives of over 11,000 people a year across Worcestershire and Herefordshire. 

Please note: this role covers areas in Worcestershire and Herefordshire only.

A Community Advocacy Volunteer can support people in Herefordshire  who are vulnerable in a variety of ways. Community Volunteer Advocates help them to make a complaint about a service or situation they are unhappy with, such as a housing or a benefits issue. This service helps people live independently by helping them deal with issues with utility providers or setting up a bank account or assisting them to access services that support with financial matters. 

We are looking for people who are or have:

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Empathetic
• You will have, or be willing to learn, basic computer literacy skills in order to log your contact / work on our database system.
• Comfortable completing forms and applications
• Organised 

Benefits of volunteering with the Advocacy Services

• Be part of a growing charity with ever expanding exciting new projects!
• You are provided with FREE training
• Reimbursed for public transport fair and/ or partial mileage costs
• Get experience in the field of mental health
• References are available from us on request
• Fulfilment in helping your local community
• Meet new and likeminded people - we hold regular volunteer catch ups to have your say and meet other volunteers
• Access to Employee Assistance programme benefits

Overview of Onside

ONSIDE is an independent charity promoting the rights and interests of people facing disadvantage. We believe that everyone is entitled to fair, equal treatment and opportunity. Our skilled staff and volunteers make a real difference to the lives of over 11,000 people a year across Worcestershire and Herefordshire. 

Do you love planning and cooking delicious meals? If so, we warmly invite you to join us as a Volunteer Cook at Skanda Vale Hospice where your focus will be to create fresh, wholesome and tasty meals to support the well-being of our patients, their families and our dedicated team. 

You’ll have a team of kitchen helpers and together your contribution will not only nourish the body but support the overall warmth and comforting experience that uplifts and benefits everyone at the hospice.

About Skanda Vale Hospice

Skanda Vale Hospice offers unhurried, highly individualised care and respite to families affected by life-limiting illnesses, completely free of charge. A beautiful and happy place, filled with laughter and vibrant colour, our hospice is nurse led and primarily run by volunteers. Volunteering with us means being a valued part of a dedicated team who give of themselves wholeheartedly. Compassion is at the heart of what we do, expressed by human kindness, generosity and a deep commitment to the well-being of everyone we care for and work alongside.

What will I be doing?

• Planning and preparing nutritious and appetising meals, tailored to different dietary requirements.

• Catering (with support from your team) for 30-50 people at lunchtime.

• Alternatively, providing additional smaller meals for patients during respite stays: cooked breakfast, dinner and snacks.

• Keeping a clean and organised kitchen, overseeing dishwashing plus sanitising of surfaces and equipment.

• Keeping temperature logs, and accurate records of expiry dates and stock levels.

• Along with catering colleagues, supporting a great team spirit and a happy environment.

How much time should I give?

Flexible, based on volunteer availability and hospice needs, but on average at least one day a month. Some volunteers choose to commit to frequent regular shifts while others offer their availability monthly or by arrangement to support day hospice, respite services or hospice events.

What are the benefits of being a Volunteer Cook?

• Sense of purpose, knowing you are making a positive difference to people in need.

• Seeing the pleasure your creativity and culinary skill bring to others.

• Being valued and appreciated as a key part of a friendly team.

• Training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.

• Working in a welcoming place with warmhearted people.

• Earn Tempo Time Credits to spend on activities both locally and across the UK.

• Travel expenses reimbursed.

What do I need to have?

• An ability to work well and communicate sensitively within a team, providing instruction and guidance to Catering Assistants.

• Be a confident home cook or have experience in professional catering.

• Physical stamina as our cooks are on their feet for some time.

• Reliability and punctuality since we need to serve meals on time. 

• An ability to remain calm and adapt to unexpected changes.

What training and support will I be given?

Our Cooks are supported by the Catering Lead and receive induction, training (such as Level 2 Food Hygiene) and ongoing support to ensure they feel confident and capable in their role.

How do I find out more?

Contact us or drop in at one of our Coffee Mornings. These are held between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm on the last Thursday of each month and offer the chance for an informal chat and a look around - while enjoying fresh coffee and homemade cake, free of charge. Come along, we’d love to meet you!

Do you love cleaning and keeping everything spick and span? If so, join us as a Volunteer Cleaner at Skanda Vale Hospice and help us maintain a beautifully clean, safe, and welcoming environment for our patients and their families. Our Housekeeping team is vital to everything we do. The time and effort you spend caring about the little details will make a big difference to the people that, together, we care about.

About Skanda Vale Hospice

Skanda Vale Hospice offers unhurried, highly individualised care and respite to families affected by life-limiting illnesses, completely free of charge. A beautiful and happy place, filled with laughter and vibrant colour, our hospice is nurse led and primarily run by volunteers. Volunteering with us means being a valued part of a dedicated team who give of themselves wholeheartedly. Compassion is at the heart of what we do, expressed by human kindness, generosity and a deep commitment to the well-being of everyone we care for and work alongside.

What will I be doing?

• Sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, dusting and disinfecting surfaces in bedrooms, bathrooms and throughout the hospice.

• Washing, drying, and ironing laundry.

• Disposing of waste (general and clinical), including recycling.

• Helping with infection control by following our in-house procedures and using personal protective equipment when needed.

• Working as part of a wider team to keep the building fresh, clean and welcoming.

How much time should I give?

Completely flexible, whatever you can offer – some volunteers offer time every week, others support on a monthly basis at the end of respite stays, some help quarterly with deep cleans or just occasionally to prepare or clear up around special events in our calendar.

What are the benefits of being a Volunteer Cleaner?

• Sense of purpose, knowing you are making a positive difference to people who need a clean and comfortable environment.

• Satisfaction of giving back and making a worthwhile contribution to a good cause.

• Being valued and appreciated as a key part of a friendly team.

• Earning Tempo Time Credits to spend on activities both locally and across the UK.

• Travel expenses reimbursed.

What do I need to have?

• Enthusiasm and an eye for detail to keep the high standards of cleanliness we need throughout the hospice.

• Reliability with a sense of commitment to giving your best.

• Ability to work both as part of a team and independently.

What training and support will I be given?

You will receive induction, training on cleaning procedures, infection control practices and health and safety. You will be supported by the Housekeeping Lead to ensure you feel confident and capable in your role.

How do I find out more?

Contact us or drop in at one of our Coffee Mornings. These are held between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm on the last Thursday of each month and offer the chance for an informal chat and a look around - while enjoying fresh coffee and homemade cake, free of charge. Come along, we’d love to meet you!

Would you like to work with others to help develop and nurture our peaceful, restorative gardens? As a Volunteer Gardener at Skanda Vale Hospice, you’ll be helping create and maintain a set of magical spaces designed to uplift everyone who spends time in them. Your attention will be focused on tending the gardens, grounds and garden structures. We encourage everyone to share their ideas and creativity to shape areas for well-being that benefit patients, team and visitors to the hospice.

About Skanda Vale Hospice

Skanda Vale Hospice offers unhurried, highly individualised care and respite to families affected by life-limiting illnesses, completely free of charge. A beautiful and happy place, filled with laughter and vibrant colour, our hospice is nurse led and primarily run by volunteers. Volunteering with us means being a valued part of a dedicated team who give of themselves wholeheartedly. Compassion is at the heart of what we do, expressed by human kindness, generosity and a deep commitment to the well-being of everyone we care for and work alongside.

What will I be doing?

• Mowing, weeding, pruning, sweeping, digging, potting and deadheading.

• Sweeping, weeding and pressure washing ramps, patios and parking areas.

• Depending on your fitness and ability, you might help with building or renewing garden structures.

• On occasion, help the gardening team at Skanda Hafan, Dolgran (a fundraising venue for the hospice).

How much time should I give?

A seasonal time commitment of one day (5-6 hours) per week is requested for this green-fingered role but life doesn't always fit with our schedules so there is some flexibility! Some volunteers also support our occasional open garden events.

What are the benefits of being a Volunteer Gardener?

• Sense of purpose knowing your contribution lifts the spirits of hospice patients and team members.

• Being outside in nature amidst beautiful surroundings.

• Meeting new people who share your passion for gardening.

• Feeling valued and appreciated as part of a friendly team.

• Earning Tempo Time Credits to spend on activities both locally and across the UK.

• Travel expenses reimbursed.

What do I need to have?

● Some gardening knowledge and experience is helpful but not essential.

● A love of nature and creativity.

● A sense of camaraderie, team spirit and enjoyment of working alongside colleagues is vital.

● An element of physical stamina is useful as you may be on your feet for some time.

● Appropriate clothing including closed-top shoes and gloves.

What training and support will I be given?

Our Gardeners receive induction and training and are invited to team development opportunities. They are supported by the Gardening Lead to feel confident in their role.

How do I find out more?

Contact us or drop in at one of our Coffee Mornings. These are held between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm on the last Thursday of each month and offer the chance for an informal chat and a look around - while enjoying fresh coffee and homemade cake, free of charge. Come along, we’d love to meet you!

Are you good at DIY or a skilled tradesperson? As a Maintenance Volunteer at Skanda Vale Hospice you can play a crucial role in ensuring that our facilities and technical installations are functional and safe. 

About Skanda Vale Hospice

Skanda Vale Hospice offers unhurried, highly individualised care and respite to families affected by life-limiting illnesses, completely free of charge. A beautiful and happy place, filled with laughter and vibrant colour, our hospice is nurse led and primarily run by volunteers. Volunteering with us means being a valued part of a dedicated team who give of themselves wholeheartedly. Compassion is at the heart of what we do, expressed by human kindness, generosity and a deep commitment to the well-being of everyone we care for and work alongside.

What will I be doing?

• Helping carry out and log a rolling schedule of pre-planned checks, maintenance and repairs.

• Making regular fire systems and legionella checks.

• Keeping an eye on the safety, state of repair and smooth running of all plant, machinery and equipment.

• Being available, if possible, for emergency call-outs (though this is not essential). 

How much time should I give?

Ideally one day per week but we can be flexible to suit our volunteers and the hospice.

What are the benefits of being a Maintenance Volunteer?

• Sense of purpose, using your existing skills and expertise to benefit a worthy cause.

• Satisfaction of keeping all installations and facilities in good working order.

• Being valued and appreciated as a key part of a vital team.

• Training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.

• Earning Tempo Time Credits to spend on activities both locally and across the UK.

• Travel expenses reimbursed.

What do I need to have?

• Reliability, consistency and attention to detail

• Ideally, some experience in routine building maintenance and repairs, such as plumbing, electrics, HVAC system maintenance and carpentry.

• Ability to work as part of a team and independently.

What training and support will I be given?

You will be supported by the Maintenance Lead and Head of Operations. You will receive induction plus training such as health and safety regulations and best practices, conducting safety inspections and addressing hazards to ensure you feel confident and capable in your role. 

How do I find out more?

Contact us or drop in at one of our Coffee Mornings. These are held between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm on the last Thursday of each month and offer the chance for an informal chat and a look around - while enjoying fresh coffee and homemade cake, free of charge. Come along, we’d love to meet you!

Would you love to nurse in the way you always wanted? As a Volunteer Nurse at Skanda Vale Hospice you have a golden opportunity to do just that and have the satisfaction of providing palliative nursing in a beautiful environment that upholds the highest standards of holistic, person-centred care. You will be part of a supportive team, headed by our inspirational Lead Nurse who was awarded 2024 Nurse of the Year for the Independent Sector.

About Skanda Vale Hospice

Skanda Vale Hospice offers unhurried, highly individualised care and respite to families affected by life-limiting illnesses, completely free of charge. A beautiful and happy place, filled with laughter and vibrant colour, our hospice is nurse led and primarily run by volunteers. Volunteering with us means being a valued part of a dedicated team who give of themselves wholeheartedly. Compassion is at the heart of what we do, expressed by human kindness, generosity and a deep commitment to the well-being of everyone we care for and work alongside.

What will I be doing?

• Providing skilled nursing care, administering medication, managing symptoms, and helping with personal care.

• Carrying out thorough, holistic patient assessments and developing care plans.

• Building trusting relationships with patients, families and colleagues.

• Keeping accurate and up-to-date records of patient care.

• Offering support and advice to patients and families.

• Working collaboratively with other team members to support genuinely patient-centred care.

How much time should I give?

10 hours or 1 shift minimum per month (averaged over the year).

What are the benefits of being a Volunteer Nurse?

• Satisfaction from making a profound difference to people’s lives.

• Sense of purpose from using your skills in a worthwhile cause.

• Feeling valued and appreciated as a key part of a vital team.

• Working in a welcoming environment with other warmhearted people.

• Training and development opportunities.

• Earning Tempo Time Credits to spend on activities both locally and across the UK.

• Travel expenses reimbursed.

• Free accommodation if participating in our residential volunteering program.

What do I need to have?

• Registered Nurse qualification with current registration and indemnity insurance to practise without restrictions.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

• Strong clinical assessment and nursing skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively with sensitivity and respect with people from diverse backgrounds.

• Empathy, with a patient-centred approach to care.

• Ability to respond well to changing circumstances.

• Composure in potentially stressful situations and the ability to respond promptly to critical events.   

What training and support will I be given?

You will receive comprehensive induction and training to familiarise you with hospice policies and procedures as well as ongoing support and supervision from our Lead Nurse / Deputy Lead Nurse to ensure you feel confident and valued in your role. We also offer a range of team wellbeing and development opportunities. 

How do I find out more?

Contact us or drop in at one of our Coffee Mornings. These are held between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm on the last Thursday of each month and offer the chance for an informal chat and a look around - while enjoying fresh coffee and homemade cake, free of charge. Come along, we’d love to meet you!

Do you have a caring nature and a desire to join a friendly team helping others? As a Volunteer Carer at Skanda Vale Hospice you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients and their loved ones. 

Your role will focus on providing personalised, hands-on care with warmth and dedication. You’ll be part of a great team in a supportive and encouraging environment – we’ll provide you with the training and everything you need to thrive in this rewarding role. 

About Skanda Vale Hospice

Skanda Vale Hospice offers unhurried, highly individualised care and respite to families affected by life-limiting illnesses, completely free of charge. A beautiful and happy place, filled with laughter and vibrant colour, our hospice is nurse led and primarily run by volunteers. Volunteering with us means being a valued part of a dedicated team who give of themselves wholeheartedly. Compassion is at the heart of what we do, expressed by human kindness, generosity and a deep commitment to the well-being of everyone we care for and work alongside.

What will I be doing?

• Providing hands-on care and support to patients in their daily living, including personal care and eating and drinking, according to their individual needs. Helping them move around the hospice and gardens, organising and assisting with recreational activities, and accompanying them on outings when needed.

• Offering emotional support and a compassionate presence; a listening ear, empathy, and understanding during difficult times. Creating a warm and nurturing environment where patients and their families feel valued, respected, and cared for.

• Working with nurses, other carers, companions, therapists, and team members to support great team spirit. Sharing relevant information and observations to support patient care planning, decision-making and record-keeping. 

How much time should I give?

Ideally, an average of one shift a month, but scheduling can be flexible, based on your availability and hospice needs. Some volunteers commit to regular shifts while others have a more variable pattern of availability.

What are the benefits of being a Volunteer Carer?

• Sense of purpose, knowing you are making a positive difference to people's lives.

• Being valued and appreciated as a key part of a supportive healthcare team..

• Working in a welcoming place with other warmhearted people.

• Earning Tempo Time Credits to spend on activities both locally and across the UK.

• Travel expenses reimbursed.

• Free accommodation if participating in our residential volunteering program.

What do I need to have? 

• A compassionate and empathic nature, with a genuine desire to support and care for others. 

• An ability to interact sensitively and respectfully with patients and their families. 

• Basic understanding of the principles of care and hygiene. 

• Patience, resilience, and the ability to remain calm.

• Reliability with a sense of commitment to giving your best. 

• Willingness to take part in the training and orientation which we provide. 

• Ideally, some experience of caring – either at home or in a care setting. 

• Ideally, some experience of teamwork with people from various backgrounds.

What training and support will I be given?

Our Volunteer Carers receive comprehensive induction and training. This includes shadowing, one-to-one support, team sharing and development opportunities plus additional learning as needed. Volunteer Carers are supported by the Healthcare Support Workers’ Lead and the Lead Nurse to ensure they feel confident and capable in their role.

How do I find out more?

Contact us or drop in at one of our Coffee Mornings. These are held between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm on the last Thursday of each month and offer the chance for an informal chat and a look around - while enjoying fresh coffee and homemade cake, free of charge. Come along, we’d love to meet you!

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field. While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

About the Role

The ePDP Programme Manager is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the Enhanced Professional Development Programme (ePDP) and managing the ePDP Liaison. This position ensures the successful delivery of the ePDP, aligning it with organisational goals and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. The Programme Manager will work closely with senior leadership, Heads of Department (HoDs), and the ePDP Liaison to design, implement, and refine the programme, ensuring it meets the needs of participants and the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Oversight of the ePDP

• Develop and execute the strategic vision for the ePDP, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.

• Collaborate with the Director: HRBP, Legal, IT & ePDP to define programme goals, KPIs, and success metrics.

• Continuously evaluate and refine the programme to address emerging needs and industry trends.

2. Team Leadership & Management

• Manage and mentor the ePDP Liaison, providing guidance and support to ensure effective programme execution.

• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team culture, encouraging innovation and accountability.

3. Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Heads of Department (HoDs) and external partners to ensure programme relevance and impact.

• Act as the primary point of contact for senior stakeholders, providing regular updates on programme progress and outcomes.

4. Programme Design & Implementation

• Oversee the design and delivery of ePDP content, ensuring it meets the developmental needs of participants.

• Coordinate with internal and external facilitators to deliver high-quality training sessions, workshops, and resources.

• Ensure the integration of feedback from participants and stakeholders to enhance programme effectiveness.

5. Monitoring & Evaluation

• Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track participant progress and programme impact.

• Analyse data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

• Prepare comprehensive reports for senior leadership, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

6. Communication & Advocacy

• Promote the ePDP across the organisation, ensuring high visibility and engagement.

• Develop communication strategies to highlight success stories and programme benefits.

Required Skills

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align the ePDP with organisational goals and adapt to changing priorities.

• Leadership & Team Management: Proven experience in leading and mentoring teams to achieve results.

• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional relationship-building skills to engage and influence senior leaders and cross-functional teams.

• Project Management: Strong organisational skills to manage complex programmes, budgets, and timelines.

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate programme vision and outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

• 5+ years of experience in programme management, learning and development, or a related field.

• Experience in designing and implementing professional development programmes.

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

About the Role

The Enhanced Professional Development Programme (ePDP) Liaison plays a pivotal role in driving the success of our flagship professional development initiative. This position is responsible for managing the end-to-end execution of the ePDP, ensuring seamless coordination between participants, Heads of Department (HoDs), and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will combine exceptional organizational skills with a passion for fostering professional growth, ensuring participants remain engaged and supported throughout their development journey.

Key Responsibilities

1. Programme Management

   • Oversee the effective implementation of the ePDP, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.

   • Welcome participants to the programme, providing orientation materials and clarifying expectations.

2. Participant Support & Progress Tracking

   • Conduct initial skills assessments to identify individual development needs.

   • Monitor and document participant progress, providing regular updates to stakeholders.

   • Schedule and coordinate meetings between participants and their respective Heads of Department (HoDs).

3. Coordination & Communication

   • Manage day-to-day operations, including scheduling sessions, sending reminders, and maintaining programme documentation.

   • Serve as the primary point of contact for participants, addressing queries and resolving issues promptly.

4. Engagement & Feedback

   • Design and organise feedback sessions to gather insights from participants and HoDs, using data to refine the programme.

   • Develop strategies to ensure active engagement (e.g., interactive workshops, milestone celebrations).

5. Reporting

   • Prepare progress reports for senior leadership, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

Required Skills

• Keen Eye for Detail: Ability to manage complex schedules, track progress meticulously, and maintain accurate records.

• Excellent Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication to liaise effectively with participants, HoDs, and stakeholders.

• Relationship Building & Networking: Proven ability to foster trust and collaboration across departments.

• Organizational Agility: Skilled in multitasking, prioritization, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Problem-Solving: Proactive approach to addressing challenges and improving programme delivery.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in coordinating professional development programmes or similar initiatives.

• Familiarity with data analysis to assess programme effectiveness.

Child abuse has no place in childhood. The power to prevent it lies in communities across the UK.

Taking place on Friday 6th June , Childhood Day is the NSPCC’s national flagship day of fundraising and action that brings communities together and gives everyone a way to help keep children safe. Are you with us?

Childhood Day collections will be taking place across the UK from May – June. We have a number of collections across Scotland that we need volunteers for.

Will you play your part in keeping children safe by volunteering now? Sign up to your local CHD collection.

Take to the streets with us across the UK this May and June and help us collect donations for the NSPCC.

 Joining us on the streets will be great fun, you will get to meet lots of new people and will be supported from the moment you sign up. Join us in three simple steps:

1.Sign up online 

2.  Enter your postcode and pick a time and venue that suits you

3.   Take to the streets!

Together, we can protect children and prevent abuse.

We are looking for volunteers who can meet with our clients in and around Central London on a regular weekly or fortnightly basis for at least six months, longer if possible. 

Your meetings might involve sitting and chatting in our clients home or going out together, for a walk, a talk in a coffee shop,  for a wonder around the shops, or even visiting places of interest, museums for example.

Our clients are older 1st and 2nd generation Scots living in London who are lonely or socially isolated, and would benefit from regular companionship. Our service works across London, currently, we have clients waiting in Islington, Camden, Tulse Hill,  Brockwell, Putney and other areas. 

We provide training before you start, ongoing support once you are matched, out of pocket expenses, references, social events newsletters and more! 

Giving someone who is lonely, socially isolated, or needs someone to venture out with,the simple gift of time and companionship could make the world of difference to their emotional and physical wellbeing,   As one of our Buddies said recently, “this is an easy, very meaningful way to help someone and is immensely rewarding and fun!”  

Please note, this is an unpaid voluntary role and applicants must be living in or around the London area. 

Please contact us for more information, and a very warm welcome!

Skills & Characteristics Required for Befriending are:

• Able to hold a good conversation and listen well  
• Friendly, warm, non-judgemental 
• Honest, trustworthy, reliable and committed to helping others
• Empathy and patience
• An understanding of the need to work within the framework of our policies and procedures.

We will process a DBS check for all successful applicants and request two references.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.
 

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• keeping financial records from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.