Volunteer roles

Become a Community Wish Maker in Scotland (North, South, East & West)

Right now, 93 children in the Scotland are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.

Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference. 

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you.

Become a Community Wish Maker - Wales (North, South, East, West and all in the middle)

Right now, 75 children in Wales are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.
 
Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

 How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed. 

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

 What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

Become a Community Wish Maker

Right now, 66 children in the South West are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.
 
Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed. 

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference. 

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

 Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

Become a Community Wish Maker - in the Whole of the South East 

Right now, 93 children in the South East are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.
 
Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed. 

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference. 

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

Become a Community Wish Maker

Right now, 91 children in the North East are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.
 
Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed. 

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

 Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

Become a Community Wish Maker - In the Whole of North East of England

Right now, 136 children in the North West are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.
 
Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

 How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed. 

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference. 

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

Become a Community Wish Maker in the whole of the East of England

Right now, 72 children in the East of England are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.
 
Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed. 

 What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference. 

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

Become a Community Wish Maker - In London & Greater London

Right now, 103 children in the Greater London region are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.

Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed. 

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference. 

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

Become a Community Wish Maker In Northern Ireland!

Right now, 55 children in Northern Ireland are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.
 
Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference. 

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

The impact you will make:

By supporting local and national fundraising activity, you will help ensure that NCI stations can continue to operate effectively. Your contribution will directly support the volunteers on watch who provide a crucial extra set of eyes along the coast, helping to prevent incidents and assist emergency services when needed.

What you will be doing:

As a volunteer station supporter fundraiser, you will be involved in your stations fundraising activities, including:

• Attending local fundraising events and community activities organised by your station
• Manning stalls at events, shows, and public spaces
• Collecting, checking, and emptying donation boxes in agreed locations
• Assisting with simple fundraising initiatives organised by your local station
• Helping to promote NCI within the local community and encouraging public support

This role is ideal for someone looking to gain experience, confidence, and skills while supporting a coastal water safety charity. Would be beneficial to be located near to an NCI station, or reasonable travelling disctance from a station. Would need to hold a driving licence for travelling to and from events.

Ideally what skills would suit this role:

• Enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to get involved
• Organised individual with project management skills
• Friendly, confident and approachable manner
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Reliability and a flexible approach to tasks
• An interest in supporting coastal safety and local communities

No previous fundraising experience is required – training and support will be provided.

What’s in it for you:

• Be part of a respected national coastal safety charity
• Learn new skills in fundraising
• Meet new people and join a motivated volunteer team making a real difference
• Supporting your local coastal community
• Gain practical experience to enhance your CV
• The chance to develop your professional and personal skills
• The satisfaction of helping protect lives along the coast

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Our volunteers are a fundamental part of our shops. Any time which they volunteer at our shops, help us be there for more people who are experiencing a mental health problem. 

About the volunteer role

To provide our volunteers with opportunities to gain a variety of skills and experience, we offer them a range of volunteer roles to choose from, which include:

• Stock preparation volunteer
• Volunteer shop sales assistant
• Volunteer stock generation assistant
• Volunteer window dresser/Merchandiser
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (antiques and collectables)
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (books and entertainment)
• Housekeeping volunteer

Key tasks

There is a variety of tasks within the above-mentioned roles that our volunteers get involved with, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers with their purchases, providing them with great customer service and a delightful shopping experience
• Receiving donated items from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated items for sale
• Creating visually appealing window and in-store displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, clean and coordinated
• Processing sales and serving at the till
• Signing up gift aid donors
• Stock rotation
• Identifying special or valuable items within donated stock

About you

• Passionate about customer service 
• Good communication skills 
• Friendly and helpful
• Respectful of others and their diversity

Experience & skills you will gain

• Experience of working as part of a team
• Retail experience 
• Stock organisation
• Selling skills 
• Customer service skills 

Our Commitment

We are committed to becoming actively anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services. We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.

Perinatal Support Volunteers provide one-to-one support to parents during pregnancy and up to nine months after the birth. These parents either have mental health issues or are at risk of developing them.

Perinatal Support Volunteers visit these families once a week (usually weekdays during working hours) for 2-3 hours, providing emotional support and practical help in the family’s home or local community. Support is aimed at empowering parents and building resilience beyond the support period.

The type of support Perinatal Support Volunteers provide to parents may include:

• An empathetic and non-judgemental listening ear
• Support to prepare for parenthood
• Support to build confidence in parenting skills
• Support to develop a positive relationship with their infant
• Support to establish daily and weekly routines
• Support to take time for self-care
• Support to manage the things that are causing stress
• Support to access relevant services
• Support to access local green spaces
• Support to make connections with other parents

No special qualifications are necessary to become a Perinatal Support Volunteer, but Home-Start volunteers are usually either parents or grandparents themselves, or people with experience of young children and family life. We particularly welcome volunteers with lived experience of perinatal mental health challenges.