Volunteer roles for the Housing and Homelessness sector

Help shape a future where everyone has the opportunity for a better tomorrow.

St Giles is a leading national charity working with people affected by poverty, violence, exploitation and involvement in the criminal justice system. Through our pioneering lived experience model, we support people facing some of society's most complex challenges to build positive futures and create lasting change.

Every year, St Giles supports more than 16,000 people across the UK. Our work delivers significant social impact and continues to influence practice and policy nationally. As we embark on the next phase of our development, we are seeking to appoint six new Trustees to help shape our future direction and strengthen our Board.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can bring strategic expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance and Audit
• Income Generation and Fundraising
• Safeguarding
• Impact, Policy and Influencing
• Charity Growth, Transformation and Organisational Development
• Lived Experience and Community Voice

Whether you are an experienced non-executive or considering your first Trustee appointment, we would love to hear from individuals who share our values, believe in the power of lived experience and can contribute strategic insight, constructive challenge and sound judgement.

About You

You will bring:

• A commitment to the mission and values of St Giles.
• Strategic thinking and strong judgement.
• The ability to influence, support and challenge effectively.
• Experience in your chosen area of expertise.
• A commitment to inclusion, equity and safeguarding.
• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a high-performing Board. 

Our Commitment to Diversity

Diversity is a strength at St Giles. We are committed to building a Board that reflects the communities we serve and welcome applications from people with a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives and lived experiences.

We particularly encourage applications from people from the global majority, disabled people, neurodivergent people and individuals who are currently underrepresented in governance roles.

Time Commitment

The Board meets five times per year, alongside an annual strategy day. Trustees also serve on at least one Board committee, which typically meets five times annually, primarily online. Trustees are appointed for an initial three-year term.

Find Out More

For full details of the opportunity, including the role specification, diversity statement, time commitment and application process, please visit our website.

Join Us

This is an opportunity to use your skills and experience to help shape the future of a charity that transforms lives every day. If you share our belief that everyone deserves the opportunity for a better tomorrow, we'd love to hear from you.

St Michael’s and All Saints’ Charity, is a philanthropic, grant giving Charity based in Oxford and its purposes are:

1. To help St Michael's continue to be an active church community in the heart of Oxford; and

2. To support local charities focusing on community benefit and relief of hardship in Oxford and the surrounding county.

The Charity finds itself in the position of being able to welcome three new Feoffees who share our values, passion and dedication, who are willing to develop a sympathetic understanding of the work of the Charities and have experience working in an environment governed by a legislative/regulatory framework, be it charitable, non-profit or private sector. 

The Charities invites expressions of interest for the following roles:

· Chair Designate of the Feoffee board; the current chair is planning to step-down in 2027;

· Two Trustees who can also commit to supporting the Charity’s work and approach to grant giving.

Our priority is to gain Feoffees with a sound knowledge and understanding of the charitable sector and need within Oxford and the wider country. Expertise in the legal and property matters would also be an advantage.

Preference will be given to applicants who can evidence experience in at least one of these areas.  The Charity wishes to increase the range of diverse backgrounds, experiences and expertise on the board to enhance decision making and therefore encourages applications from all communities and backgrounds.

Additional skills, understanding and experience that would be welcome are:

· Governance, compliance and assurance

Bid Writer Role Description

What will you be doing?

We are excited to announce an incredible opportunity for a talented Bid Writer to join our passionate team at the Africa Health Organisation (AHO)!  Since 1999, we've been dedicated to delivering health and social care to millions across Africa and the Diaspora, and now we're ready to elevate our impact further.

This year, we're embarking on a mission to broaden our funding strategy by incorporating bids and tenders.  Our goal is to engage with the governments in Africa and the UK, the public sector, and the public, providing essential practical and emotional support to those facing chronic conditions.  We need a visionary like you to help us achieve our goals.

We're seeking a dynamic and experienced Bid Writer to assist the Bid Manager and Head of Bids in developing and executing a winning strategy to secure the necessary financial backing.  There are numerous exciting possibilities ahead, including central government tenders, as well as local and statutory opportunities.  We're eager to explore them all.

In this pivotal role, you'll assist the Bid Manager in planning and executing our bids and tender writing, ensuring our bid proposals not only shine but also come to life in meaningful ways.  If you're a bid writer who thrives on creativity and collaboration, we want to hear from you!  Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to inspire and mentor volunteers within our bid and tender team, making a positive impact together.  Join us on this exciting journey!

What are we looking for?

Person Specification: What You'll Bring:

• Educated to a degree level
• At least one year of proven experience in bid and tender management, preferably within the healthcare (NHS & private), medical, social care and services, international development, economics, international relations, UN agencies, ege, UNICEF, WHO, etc, or technology sectors.
• End-to-end bid management experience: A minimum of 3 years' experience leading the whole bid process.
• Preferred qualifications include a degree in Business, Communication, Marketing, Creative Writing, English or equivalent.
• APMP Certification is also desirable, but not important.
• Sector versatility: Experience in working with both public and private sector bids in the medical, biotech, biomed, health and social sectors is preferred.
• Industry knowledge: Understanding of contact centres and/or customer experience is essential.
• Commercial acumen: Strong business sense, negotiation skills, and a hands-on approach.
• Resilience under pressure: Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Detail orientation: High attention to detail to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Growth mindset: Self-motivated, proactive, and focused on continuous improvement.
• Strong communicator: Confident and articulate, with the ability to build trusted relationships across stakeholders.
• Time management: Skilled at prioritising tasks and managing competing deadlines.

What difference will you make?

In this exciting role, you will lead the strategic effort to win new business through competitive bids, tenders, and proposals, ultimately driving AHO's success. Your specialised knowledge will enhance our win rates and maximise revenue by bringing clarity, quality, and coordination to what can be a complex and high-stakes journey.

Your primary mission is to boost AHO's tender win rates and strengthen our strategic advantage.  By diligently overseeing each step of the bidding process—from initial evaluation to final submission—you will significantly improve the quality and persuasion of our proposals, directly increasing our chances of securing valuable contracts.

You'll provide key insights to help the Bid Manager target the most promising opportunities by implementing a thoughtful "bid/no-bid" process.  This approach will ensure we focus only on lucrative and winnable contracts that closely align with our strategic goals, ultimately saving time and resources and allowing us to prioritise high-potential projects.

In this role, you will orchestrate a well-coordinated process that drives operational efficiency. Acting as the central point of contact, you will gather input from diverse internal teams—sales, finance, legal, and technical experts—ensuring everyone collaborates smoothly to meet critical deadlines.

As a self-starter, you'll elevate the quality of our bid content.  By overseeing the creation of compelling, polished materials, you'll ensure that our final submissions are professional, cohesive, and error-free. You will utilise a centralised content library filled with valuable resources, such as case studies and CVs, to streamline our efforts and enhance our proposals.

You will keep projects on track by developing detailed project plans and timelines, ensuring that all tasks are completed punctually—especially critical in the fast-paced environment of tender submissions.  Your effective management will ease the workload for colleagues focused on their core responsibilities, allowing the entire team to shine.

To foster long-term business growth, you'll create a wealth of knowledge around our tenders and bids. By conducting insightful post-submission debriefs and analysing feedback, you will capture invaluable lessons from both successes and setbacks.  This ongoing improvement process will enhance our bidding capabilities for future opportunities.

You can also enhance AHO's brand reputation by submitting well-organised, accurate, and compliant bids.  By doing so, you'll showcase our professionalism and reliability to clients, building trust and solidifying our credible standing in the market.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about fundraising, social impact, and business development.  If you're eager to apply your skills to drive meaningful change, we'd love to hear from you!

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.

As a volunteer Activity Worker, you will support the planning and delivery of engaging activities for families. Your role is to promote social interaction, wellbeing, and independence through meaningful and enjoyable activities. 

Key Responsibilities:

· Assist in preparing and facilitating group or one to one activities such as arts and crafts, games, music, exercise, discussions, and outings.

· Encourage and support participation from people we work alongside, adapting activities to meet a range of needs and abilities.

· Build positive relationships with families, promoting dignity, choice, and inclusion.

· Help to set up and tidy away activity materials and spaces.

· Support staff in monitoring and providing feedback on the engagement and wellbeing of participants.

· Maintain confidentiality and always uphold safeguarding and health and safety standards.

· Contribute to a warm, friendly, and respectful environment.

What We’re Looking For:

• Friendly, patient, and approachable with good interpersonal skills.
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to supporting others.
• Creative and enthusiastic about delivering engaging activities.
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow guidance.
• Respect for diversity and a non-judgmental attitude.
• Some experience working with adults and/or children in a care or community setting (desirable).

Training and Support Provided:

• Initial induction and safeguarding training.
• Ongoing support from the Volunteer Coordinator.
• Access to regular check-ins and optional peer support sessions.
• Reimbursement of agreed travel or activity expenses.

Benefits of Volunteering:

· Make a positive difference in the lives of families in your community.

· Gain experience in community engagement and delivering activities.

· Meet new people and develop new skills.

· Be part of a supportive and welcoming team.

Are you passionate about tackling clothing poverty and keeping good clothing in use? Do you want to use your voice, experience, or platform to help others? Join Sharewear Clothing Scheme as a Volunteer Ambassador and help us to reach people we could never reach alone.

We’re looking for people who care deeply about social justice, community, and clothing circularity. We particularly welcome volunteers with lived experience of clothing poverty or hardship, whose insight helps us shape how we engage with and support others with dignity.

Whether you’re confident in community spaces, connected in corporate settings, or active online, we have three flexible Ambassador roles:

Community Ambassador

Help raise awareness locally, represent Sharewear at events, and inspire people to get involved.

Corporate Ambassador

Use your professional networks to open doors to partnerships, sponsorship, and clothing circularity opportunities.

Digital Ambassador

Use your online presence to amplify our message and help more people understand clothing poverty and its impact. 

About The Ootsider CIC

Hi, I’m John, the founder of The Ootsider. We are an West Lothian -based social enterprise on a mission to provide warmth, dignity, and comfort to those experiencing rough sleeping. Using a "buy one, give one" model, the profits from our premium, hand-made in Scotland outdoor robes directly fund the production of our bespoke, weather-proof, sleeping coats which we donate free to rough sleepers across the UK.

To help us scale our impact and protect more people from the harsh elements, we are looking for a superstar Volunteer Grant Writer & Fundraiser to join the team and help us secure vital funding.

Why You’ll Love Volunteering With Us

·Ultimate Flexibility: This role is 100% remote. Work from wherever you are comfortable, whenever suits you best.

·Low Time, High Impact: We’re looking for just 8 hours a month (approx. 2 hours a week). It easily fits around a full-time job, studies, or retirement.

·Direct, Tangible Impact: Every successful grant you write translates directly into more sleeping systems manufactured right here in Scotland and delivered to people who need them most. You will see the direct result of your hard work.

What You’ll Be Doing

Working directly with me, you will:

·Research Opportunities: Scout out trusts, foundations, and corporate grants that support homelessness, social enterprise growth, and Scottish community manufacturing.

·Craft Compelling Bids: Take The Ootsider’s proven impact story and weave it into persuasive, professional funding applications.

·Manage the Pipeline: Help keep a simple calendar of upcoming deadlines so we can plan our applications effectively.

What We’re Looking For

·A Passion for the Cause: You care about tackling homelessness and believe in the power of social enterprise.

·Strong Writing Skills: You can write clearly, persuasively, and concisely to meet strict word counts.

·Independence: You are comfortable working on your own initiative, managing your 8 hours a month effectively.

If this sounds like you, then please get in touch.

"Together we can achieve so much more". John

Flexible, ad hoc volunteering. Volunteers will be contacted when support is needed for upcoming events and can simply let us know whether they are available!

***There is no expectation to attend every event, and volunteers are free to accept or decline opportunities based on their own availability. Shifts may include weekdays, evenings or weekends depending on the event***

As a Bank Volunteer Event Assistant, you will support One YMCA at a variety of fundraising, community and engagement events throughout the year. This flexible role is ideal for someone who enjoys meeting people, working as part of a team and helping to create welcoming, well-organised events that promote One YMCA's mission. No two events are the same, and your tasks will vary depending on the nature of the event.

Main Tasks/ Responsibilities/ Activities

• Assist with event setup and pack-down, including arranging tables, signage, and equipment.
• Welcome and register attendees, providing information and directions as needed.
• Support fundraising activities such as raffles, collections, and merchandise sales.
• Help manage event activities and ensure attendees have a positive experience.
• Distribute promotional materials and raise awareness of YMCA services and initiatives.
• Provide general assistance to event organisers and other volunteers.
• Follow health and safety procedures and report any concerns to event staff.
• Represent One YMCA in a professional, friendly, and positive manner.

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Friendly, approachable, and reliable.
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Organised and willing to take initiative.
• Flexible and able to assist with a range of event tasks.
• Passionate about supporting local communities.

Training / Support

• A full induction the site and service will be provided 
• Requirement to complete online e-learning including Safeguarding and Health & Safety 
• A menu of optional training will be provided 
• Ongoing support and regular 1 to 1s
• Opportunities to attend volunteer meetings, conferences and events across the organisation

Additional Information 

• You will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check
• Two references will be required

We are seeking committed individuals to join our Management Committee, supporting the strategic oversight and governance of Help4Homeless.

This is a voluntary leadership role responsible for ensuring the charity operates effectively, ethically, and in line with its mission to support people experiencing homelessness in Peterborough.

Management Committee members carry out trustee-style responsibilities, providing oversight, guidance, and accountability for the organisation, without being part of day-to-day operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight of Help4Homeless and its long-term direction
• Act in the best interests of the organisation and its beneficiaries at all times
• Attend committee meetings and contribute to decision-making and planning
• Support and challenge the leadership team to ensure effective delivery of services
• Monitor the organisation’s activities, impact, and overall performance
• Help ensure financial transparency and responsible use of funds
• Identify risks and help ensure appropriate safeguarding and compliance measures are in place
• Uphold the values, mission, and reputation of Help4Homeless
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation within the community
• Declare and manage any conflicts of interest appropriately

Please Note

Although this role is titled Management Committee Member, it carries responsibilities equivalent to a trustee position, including governance, oversight, and accountability. The committee collectively ensures the organisation is well-managed and acting in the public interest.

Location

On-site / Hybrid – Peterborough, UK

Working Hours

Approx. 2–6 hours per month (including meetings and review responsibilities)

Expenses

Reasonable expenses may be covered where agreed in advance.

Reports To

Collective responsibility as part of the Management Committee

Works Alongside

• Founder / Operations Lead
• Directors and Senior Volunteers
• Community Engagement Team
• Social Media and Fundraising Teams

Skills & Experience

• Commitment to helping people experiencing homelessness
• Good judgement and ability to think strategically
• Willingness to take responsibility for governance decisions
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to act independently and objectively
• Experience in charity, business, community work, or leadership (desirable but not essential)

Important Governance Note

Help4Homeless is currently transitioning from an informal community group into a more structured organisation. Management Committee members will play a key role in shaping governance, policies, and long-term sustainability.

Why Join Us

This is an opportunity to help shape a growing grassroots charity making a direct impact in Peterborough, ensuring that every donation goes directly toward supporting people in need.

Help Shape Aspire Oxfordshire's Next 25 Years

As Aspire Oxfordshire approaches its 25th anniversary, we are looking for new Trustees to help shape the next chapter of our journey.

For almost 25 years, Aspire has supported people across Oxfordshire experiencing homelessness, poverty and disadvantage to build safer, healthier and more independent lives. Through supported accommodation, employment and training, homelessness prevention and personalised support, we help people create lasting change.

As we look ahead, we have ambitious plans to grow our impact, strengthen partnerships, increase fundraising and continue delivering high-quality, person-centred services. We are seeking passionate, values-led individuals to join our Board and help guide our future.

As a Trustee, you will provide strategic leadership, constructive challenge and oversight, working alongside fellow Trustees and our Executive Leadership Team to ensure Aspire remains well governed, financially sustainable and focused on delivering the greatest possible impact.

Previous Trustee experience is not essential. We welcome people who share our values, bring professional expertise and want to make a positive difference. A full induction and ongoing support will be provided.

We are particularly interested in people with experience in:

Fundraising, Communications and Social Media
Helping diversify income, build supporter engagement and raise Aspire's profile.

Charity Governance and Employment
Knowledge of the charity sector, governance, HR or employment law to support good governance and organisational development.

Social Housing and Welfare
Experience of housing, homelessness, welfare benefits or housing policy to strengthen our understanding of the sector and the people we support.

Charity Finance and Risk Management
Experience in finance, accountancy, audit or risk management to support effective financial oversight and long-term sustainability.

As a Trustee you will:

• Help shape Aspire's strategic direction.
• Ensure strong governance, compliance and financial sustainability.
• Provide independent support and constructive challenge.
• Act in the best interests of the charity and the people we support.
• Champion Aspire and help strengthen partnerships and opportunities.

Time Commitment

The role is voluntary and designed to fit alongside professional and personal commitments.

Trustees will typically attend:

• Four hybrid Board meetings each year.
• Four online meetings each year as a member of one Board sub-committee.
• Occasional additional meetings or events where appropriate.

Why Join Aspire?

This is an opportunity to make a genuine difference while helping shape the future of an ambitious and growing charity. You'll work alongside an experienced and supportive Board, helping more people secure safe housing, employment and independence.

Aspire Oxfordshire is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We believe a diverse Board leads to stronger governance and better outcomes for the communities we serve.

Join us as we celebrate 25 years of changing lives—and help shape the next 25 years.

If you are passionate about making a difference and would like to use your skills and experience to support a growing local charity, we would love to hear from you.

Whether this is your first Trustee role or you are an experienced Board member, if you share our values and believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build a safe, independent and fulfilling life, we encourage you to apply.

Together, we can help shape Aspire Oxfordshire's next 25 years.

Unify Giving is a social impact platform on a mission to transform the way people support those experiencing homelessness and hardship. We are building technology that connects donors, businesses, charities, and vulnerable individuals in a transparent, dignified, and meaningful way.

Our platform is being built by a passionate community of volunteers, innovators, technologists, and social impact leaders who believe business can be a force for good.

As we continue to grow, we are looking for dedicated individuals to join our Sales & Partnerships Team.

Who We’re Looking For

This opportunity is ideal for:
 •  Experienced sales professionals between roles who want to stay active and build something meaningful.
 •  Aspiring sales professionals looking to gain real-world experience.
 •  Individuals returning to work after a career break.
 •  People who are passionate about helping others while developing valuable commercial skills.
 •  Self-motivated individuals who believe in loyalty, integrity, and long-term relationships.

Most importantly, we’re looking for people who genuinely care about making a difference.

What You’ll Be Doing
 •  Building relationships with businesses and potential partners.
 •  Introducing organisations to the Unify Giving mission.
 •  Helping secure merchant, corporate, and community partnerships.
 •  Identifying opportunities to grow our impact.
 •  Representing a platform focused on social good and innovation.
 •  Contributing ideas and helping shape our growth strategy.

What You’ll Gain
 •  Hands-on sales and business development experience.
 •  Mentorship and support from experienced founders and business leaders.
 •  The opportunity to build your professional profile and network.
 •  Meaningful references based on performance and contribution.
 •  Experience working within a fast-growing social enterprise and technology platform.
 •  The satisfaction of helping create real social impact.

Our Culture

At Unify Giving, we believe loyalty works both ways.

We understand that many talented people are facing difficult circumstances in today’s job market. We value commitment, effort, honesty, and character above polished CVs.

If you join our team, you’ll be treated with respect, supported in your development, and given opportunities to grow alongside the organisation.

We’re not simply looking for salespeople.

We’re looking for people who want to be part of a movement that combines technology, business, and compassion to help humanity.

Interested?

RETAIL VOLUNTEER SUPERVISOR  

Canterbury Shop

Are you ready to develop your retail and leadership skills?... Then this could be the volunteer role for you! We're looking for enthusiastic people to support the management teams in running one of our fabulous community shops.

From helping to recruit new volunteers and leading the shop team when the manager is off, to driving sales and donations and creating eye catching window displays this is a varied and engaging role that will have an impact on the store, the local community and the fight to defend the right to a safe home.

Because Home is Everything

Suggested Involvement: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied. 

Availability: The shop is open Monday - Saturday 09:00-17:00 and Sunday 10:00-16:00

Location: Canterbury, Kent

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager 

Why get involved with Shelter? Home is a human right. It's our foundation and it's where we thrive. Yet, every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency. 

We are passionate about what we do and are proud to give pre-loved items a second chance and represent Shelter on the High Street.  Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun.

Main Tasks can include:  

• Supporting our Community Shop Managers to run an exciting and inviting store.
• Using the till system to process sales, refunds and Gift Aid 
• Opening and/or closing the shop, including cashing up at the end of the day 
• Supporting other volunteers
• Using and updating our volunteer database
• Providing excellent customer service 
• Photographing and selling key items on our online shop
• Creating posts to promote our shops on Instagram

Skills and Experiences Required: Not essential as full training will be provided, however some retail or supervisory experience would be beneficial, as would confidence in the use of technology.

What’s important to us is that you want to be part of our team and come ready to share your individual skills and experiences.  

We do ask for a willingness to follow Shelter’s policies, including volunteering, health & safety, equality & diversity, safeguarding, confidentiality & data protection.  

You will be required to complete some essential learning and a full induction before you start in this role. 

Induction, Learning and Development: To enable you to take part in this opportunity Shelter will:  

• Provide you with a Volunteer Handbook and all relevant Policies/Procedures
• Provide learning including Health and Safety, Data Protection and Safeguarding
• Provide an on-the-job induction  
• Pay “out of pocket” expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of Volunteering with Shelter:  

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness  
• Gain valuable work experience in a supervisory role 
• Be part of a great team, both in your shop and within Shelter Retail 
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills 
• Enhance your CV – this is the perfect role for you to demonstrate the step from sales advisor to supervisory/management roles  
• Opportunities to develop your retail skills further out at events like Charity Supermarket and pop-up shops 

What Our Volunteers Say:

“Shelter was one of the first physical places where I felt I could fully be myself."

“Genuinely the highlight of my week. Feel like I’m part of something bigger.”

“Helping in the shop gives me satisfaction and gives me a place to go if feeling lonely and down.”

Next Steps: Please complete an application form online. After you have applied, we will review your application and invite successful candidates to attend a recruitment conversation.

Please note, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. As the role you are applying for has been designated as a regulated role, we will require you to undertake a basic Criminal Record Check. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information.  

RETAIL VOLUNTEER SUPERVISOR  - Nantwich

Are you ready to develop your retail and leadership skills?... Then this could be the volunteer role for you! We're looking for enthusiastic people to support the management teams in running one of our fabulous community shops.

From helping to recruit new volunteers and leading the shop team when the manager is off, to driving sales and donations and creating eye catching window displays this is a varied and engaging role that will have an impact on the store, the local community and the fight to defend the right to a safe home.

Because Home is Everything

Suggested Involvement: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied. 

Availability: The shop is open Monday - Saturday 09:00-17:00

Location: 44 Beam Street, Nantwich, Cheshire

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager 

Why get involved with Shelter? Home is a human right. It's our foundation and it's where we thrive. Yet, every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency. 

We are passionate about what we do and are proud to give pre-loved items a second chance and represent Shelter on the High Street.  Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun.

Main Tasks can include:  

• Supporting our Community Shop Managers to run an exciting and inviting store.
• Using the till system to process sales, refunds and Gift Aid 
• Opening and/or closing the shop, including cashing up at the end of the day 
• Supporting other volunteers
• Using and updating our volunteer database
• Providing excellent customer service 
• Photographing and selling key items on our online shop 
• Creating posts to promote our shops on Instagram

Skills and Experiences Required: Not essential as full training will be provided, however some retail or supervisory experience would be beneficial, as would confidence in the use of technology.

What’s important to us is that you want to be part of our team and come ready to share your individual skills and experiences.  

We do ask for a willingness to follow Shelter’s policies, including volunteering, health & safety, equality & diversity, safeguarding, confidentiality & data protection.  

You will be required to complete some essential learning and a full induction before you start in this role. 

Induction, Learning and Development

To enable you to take part in this opportunity Shelter will:  

• Provide you with a Volunteer Handbook and all relevant Policies/Procedures
• Provide learning including Health and Safety, Data Protection and Safeguarding
• Provide an on-the-job induction  
• Pay “out of pocket” expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of Volunteering with Shelter:  

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness  
• Gain valuable work experience in a supervisory role 
• Be part of a great team, both in your shop and within Shelter Retail 
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills 
• Enhance your CV – this is the perfect role for you to demonstrate the step from sales advisor to supervisory/management roles  
• Opportunities to develop your retail skills further out at events like Charity Supermarket and pop-up shops 

What Our Volunteers Say:

“Shelter was one of the first physical places where I felt I could fully be myself."

“Genuinely the highlight of my week. Feel like I’m part of something bigger.”

“Helping in the shop gives me satisfaction and gives me a place to go if feeling lonely and down.”

Next Steps: Please complete an application form online. After you have applied, we will review your application and invite successful candidates to attend a recruitment conversation.

Please note, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. As the role you are applying for has been designated as a regulated role, we will require you to undertake a basic Criminal Record Check. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information.  

Romanian-Speaking Community Support Volunteer

Role Overview

Europia is looking for a Romanian-speaking volunteer to support community sessions for the Salford Central and Eastern European Health Navigators Project.

The project supports Central and Eastern European residents in Salford who may face language, digital or other barriers when accessing health and community services.

The volunteer will help welcome people, provide Romanian language support and help residents use digital services. They will work alongside Europia staff to make sessions welcoming and accessible.

What the Role Will Involve

• Interpret between Romanian-speaking residents and Europia staff during community sessions.

• Help Romanian-speaking residents communicate with Europia staff. 

• Clearly interpret information provided by Europia staff.

• Translate short written information, messages and instructions between Romanian and English.

• Help check that translated information is clear and easy to understand.

• Welcome residents when they arrive at community sessions.

• Explain how the session works and who service users need to speak to.

• Help service users use mobile phones, websites, online forms and digital services.

• Help prepare the room before sessions and tidy the space afterwards.

• Support the general running of community sessions.

• Communicate information clearly, accurately and sensitively.

• Comply with Europia’s Data Protection Policy and keep personal and sensitive information private.

• Follow Europia’s safeguarding, data protection and professional boundaries procedures.

When

• Community sessions will run until March 2027.

• The project will normally hold one community session each week.

• Each session will last around three hours.

• Volunteers will support agreed sessions as part of a rota.

• The exact days, times and number of sessions will be agreed with each volunteer.

Where

The project will be delivered across Salford. Sessions will take place at community venues, including:

• Eccles Gateway, M30 0TU

• Broughton Hub, M7 4BQ

• Together Family Centre, M44 6GX

• St Aidan’s Church, M7 3SE

• Selected Salford libraries

Volunteers may support sessions at one or more venues, depending on their availability and the needs of the project.

Skills and Experience

We are looking for someone who:

• Speaks Romanian and English.

• Is friendly, patient and respectful.

• Has good communication and listening skills.

• Is comfortable speaking with people from different backgrounds.

• Can use basic websites, online forms and mobile phones.

• Is willing to help people with simple digital tasks.

• Can keep personal information private.

• Is reliable and able to attend agreed sessions.

• Is willing to learn and work as part of a team.

Previous volunteering, community work, language support or digital support experience would be helpful, but it is not essential.

Training and Support

Volunteers will receive:

• An induction before starting.

• Safeguarding training.

• Training on professional boundaries.

• Clear guidance about their role and responsibilities.

• Structured supervision and support from Europia staff.

• A Disclosure and Barring Service check.

• Information about possible pathways towards Immigration Advice Authority Level 1 qualifications, where appropriate.

Benefits

• Use your Romanian language skills to support local residents.

• Gain experience in community support.

• Develop your communication and digital support skills.

• Build confidence and meet new people.

• Learn more about local health and community services.

• Receive regular support and supervision.

• Support Central and Eastern European communities in Salford.

• Receive agreed volunteer expenses.

• Gain experience that may support future employment, training or volunteering opportunities.