Safeguarding volunteer roles

Here at One YMCA we wouldn’t be able to do the work that we do without the amazing volunteer staff that help run the day-to-day operations of the hostels and supported living facilities. These vital roles are open to all YMCA residents, and we are currently looking for volunteers to help out with our accommodation.

What do we do?

We run hostels across the Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire areas with over 400 rooms. In addition to this, we run programmes for those needing supported housing including asylum seekers.

Helping to run an activity that enables our Residents to flourish in body, mind and spirit. Responsibilities would include:

• Helping to plan and advertise the group in conjunction with the Activity Leader
• Proactively engaging with Residents and staff to encourage participation in the activity
• Helping the Activity Leader to organise and run the activity
• Be a non-judgemental, approachable presence to enable the most vulnerable Residents to take part
• Maintaining records of participation
• Signposting residents to other groups & support available
• Attend regular volunteer team meetings
We can discuss together the nature of the activity, taking into account your skills & passion as well as the current needs within the scheme.

Training/Support:
• A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided
• A menu of optional training will be made available
• Online training: Safeguarding (adults & young people), Fire
Awareness, Manual Handling
• Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings with your line-manager
• Team meetings and social events
• Mileage and expenses may be payable

• You will undergo a DBS check as the role involves adults at risk (we will apply for and fund this)
• Two references may be undertaken prior to start

We also have opportunities to support residents in other way and can be flexible with roles!

The groups also provide social activities for all the members and their families - for example, occasional outings and socials plus bowling and other outdoor activities. Free refreshments and items from their resource library are also available at meetings.

Adults' social group

This friendship group for adults and older teenagers generally meets fortnightly (alternating with the Children's and Teenagers' groups) during term time on Tuesdays from 7.00 to 9.00pm Children's and Teenagers' social groups

The Children's and Teenagers' group generally meets fortnightly (alternating with the Adults' group) during term time on Tuesdays from 6.00 to 8.00pm

The Southampton volunteer Group Leader will be responsible for the co-ordination of the NAS South Hampshire branch’s adult and older teens social group and the children and teens social group.

What you will be doing

• Planning sessions, including activities and other ideas, and co-ordinating the other volunteers attending both groups,
• Welcoming the autistic children, young people and adults to each of the sessions
• Interacting with those attending, making sure that everyone can engage in the activities in a safe manner.
• Organising the setting up and clearing away before and after the club activity
• Keeping the branch chair informed of both group’s activities in the upcoming sessions and attending branch committee meetings
• Ensuring your branch complies with NAS policies including risk assessment, data protection and safeguarding.
• Any agreed expenses incurred will be reimbursed by the branch
• You will be supported in your role by the Branch Chair and former group leader.
• You will have access to a dedicated NAS email address for this role
• A criminal record check is a requirement of this role

This is an exciting opportunity for a volunteer Assitant Director to work with our talented and enthusiastic company of young people for the academic year September 2026 - July 2027 to put on a performance of High School Musical .We are actively interviewing for this role, so if we find a suitable candidate we will appoint them and close the advert, so don't delay in making your application.

A Brief History of the Spa Theatre Company 

The Company was founded in 1982 as a young people’s group. From 1982 to 1991, there was a Senior Company, but at present the Senior Company is on hold.   

The Advertised Position 

The role advertised is for one person to provide support to the Director of the Junior Company.

The Company is primarily a “teaching” organisation, offering a high standard of teaching in speech, drama, music and dance. 

The Company meets on a Tuesday evening at Aylesford School, Warwick, for tuition and rehearsal sessions.  We also perform a musical at a local theatre, usually in April/May.  

Key Attributes required 

The Assistant Director is primarily in a learning and support situation and will be developing their ability to coach and train young people of varying ability.  They must be flexible, and should be prepared to learn from, and assist the Production Team. Candidates must be prepared to undertake a DBS check (Spa Theatre Company will cover the cost of this) and complete safeguarding training. 

Duties 

The Assistant Director will: 

A. report directly to the Director; 

B. take their instructions from the Director and where necessary the wider Production Team;  

C. demonstrate an ability to relate to all ages and to show enthusiasm and encouragement; 

D. help to ensure the safety and well-being of the children attending sessions. 

Remuneration  

The Spa Theatre Company is a Registered Charity for its work in the tuition of young people. This post is a volunteer role, however, we do offer a small honorarium which will reflect the general age and inexperience of the postholder.  

Why should you volunteer for us?

This role will be a good fit for anyone who is interesting in pursuing a career in the theatrical arts.  A great addition to your CV, it will also provide you with invaluable experience in putting a live show together, learning all about the different roles required to put on a show, acting, music, choreography, staging, props, costumes, lighting, sound, and so much more!

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. 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. Activities include:

· 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

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. You will be supported and guided from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

We're looking for someone with the following:

· Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others

· Excellent organisational skills

· The ability to prioritise and delegate

· An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly

· Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community

· Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided

· Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

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.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Are you looking for a meaningful and flexible volunteering opportunity that also helps you develop valuable communication and interpersonal skills? Join the Talking Bubble Project and help tackle loneliness through the power of a simple phone call.

Since the pandemic, many befriending services have reduced or closed—but Talking Bubble remains one of the few projects continuing to provide regular, phone-based companionship to people who need it most. Demand for this support remains high, and we are currently looking for compassionate, English-speaking volunteers across the UK.

What is the Talking Bubble Project?

☎︎ Talking Bubble is a phone-based befriending service connecting volunteers with older adults and vulnerable individuals experiencing loneliness and social isolation. Through regular weekly calls, volunteers provide conversation, consistency, and human connection to those who may otherwise feel isolated.

Even a short conversation can have a lasting impact.

Why Volunteer With Us?

✔ Make a genuine difference in someone’s life
✔ Volunteer flexibly from the comfort of your own home
✔ Receive full training, ongoing support, and a reference upon completion
✔ Gain experience in active listening, communication, empathy, and relationship-building
✔ Opportunity for reflective learning and experience relevant to helping professions

This role may particularly appeal to students or graduates interested in psychology, counselling, mental health, social care, or related fields who are seeking meaningful experience alongside their studies or professional development.

Where appropriate, we are also happy to provide feedback, complete placement documentation, or support reports/forms required by universities or training providers.

What You’ll Need

✅ No previous experience required—just empathy, reliability, and a willingness to listen
✅ Volunteers must complete Safeguarding Adults Level 2 training and undergo a DBS check (both provided free of charge)
✅ Must be a UK resident

How to Get Involved

Apply now via the CharityJob website or contact us directly for more information.

Together, we can keep connection alive—one call at a time.

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

At Children With Voices, community is everything. We've been walking alongside Hackney families for over 25 years — and we're looking for someone who shares that deep commitment to people.

As our Volunteer Community Engagement Officer, you'll be a connector. You'll help us reach more families, build relationships with local organisations, and make sure that the people who need us most know we're here.

This is a face-to-face, relationship-centred role for someone who genuinely loves people and community.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Build and maintain relationships with families, local groups, schools, and community spaces

• Represent Children With Voices at community events, outreach sessions, and local meetings

• Identify and connect with families who may benefit from our programmes

• Support the signposting of families to the right services and support

• Assist with the coordination and promotion of community events

• Provide regular updates to the CEO on community needs and feedback

• Help grow our volunteer and supporter network through outreach and word of mouth

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• A warm, approachable manner and genuine love for community

• Strong verbal communication and active listening skills

• Ability to connect with people from all backgrounds with sensitivity and respect

• Self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team

• Understanding of safeguarding principles

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience in community development, outreach, or social work

• Knowledge of Hackney or East London communities

• Ability to communicate in a second language (particularly relevant to Hackney's diverse community)

• Experience working with families, children, or vulnerable adults

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Deep experience in grassroots community engagement

• A professional reference from our CEO

• The opportunity to build meaningful relationships that change lives

• Exposure to a wide range of community services and organisations in Hackney

• A chance to grow your skills in outreach, inclusion, and social action

The Befriender 'In Home' Volunteer will play an important role by providing companionship to someone we support at our supported living service by spending time with them, visiting them in the home and doing activities they enjoy. These might include chatting over a cup of tea, reading books, playing board games, etc.

Skills Required

· To be kind, empathetic and friendly

· To have a good sense of humour and love to chat

· To be punctual and reliable

· To be able to deal with information in line with our data protection and confidentiality procedures

Training required for this role (all delivered vis e-learning)

· Safeguarding

· H&S

· Manual Handling

· How to be Eye Care Aware

· Fire Safety

· Infection Control

· Data Security and Confidentiality

· First Aid

All these courses will take approximately 40-60 minutes, apart from the First Aid which is 2 hours.

Benefits

· This is a fantastic opportunity to have a direct impact upon the lives of others. 

· Befriending is a great way to keep active and meet new people.

· SeeAbility provides training and this can help you to develop new skills.

· Volunteers can claim travel expenses.

About Us

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time. SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

We’re looking for a friendly, organised person to become our Walk Leader Coordinator — someone who enjoys supporting others, keeping things running smoothly, and helping volunteers feel valued and confident in their role.

You’ll be the go-to person for our walk leaders.

What you’ll do

• Be a point of contact for walk leaders across our groups
• Help schedule and onboard new walk leaders
• Share updates, check in regularly, and make sure each group feels supported
• Keep basic records of who’s leading which walk and when
• Flag anything that needs attention to the Project Lead
• Bring ideas on how to strengthen volunteer engagement and community

We’d love to hear from you if you:

• Are organised and enjoy bringing a bit of calm to moving parts
• Like building relationships and cheering people on
• Feel comfortable communicating by email, phone or WhatsApp
• Are passionate about mental health, inclusion and positive community impact
• Enjoy being part of something meaningful and people-focused

What difference will you make?

This role strengthens our ability to run safe, welcoming walks across Hampshire. By supporting and coordinating walk leaders, the volunteer helps us reach more people, reduce isolation, and create consistent, meaningful spaces where mental health can be talked about openly.

Creative Arts & Drama Group Volunteer

We are looking for friendly, creative Volunteers to support our weekly arts and drama groups for adults. Sessions run throughout the week and provide a relaxed, inclusive space for people to explore creativity, build confidence and support their mental wellbeing.

These are informal, participant-led groups, and our participants include adults who are:

• Autistic
• Non-verbal or have limited verbal communication
• Blind or visually impaired
• Wheelchair users or people with mobility difficulties
• Adults with learning disabilities or learning difficulties
• Individuals with a wide range of confidence levels and communication styles

What you’ll be doing

• Helping set up and pack away session spaces and resources
• Preparing refreshments (tea and coffee)
• Welcoming and supporting participants
• Encouraging engagement in creative activities (art or drama)
• Supporting a safe, inclusive and relaxed group environment
• Being present alongside participants during sessions

What we’re looking for

• Friendly, patient and reliable
• Comfortable working in inclusive and diverse settings
• Interest in creativity, arts or drama
• Supportive, non-judgemental approach
• Commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and community
• Ability to follow safeguarding and organisational guidelines

Time commitment

• 2–3 hours per session
• Weekly sessions across the week on a rota basis
• Occasional training and volunteer meetings

What you’ll get

• Experience supporting creative arts and drama sessions
• Training and ongoing support
• Opportunity to work alongside experienced facilitators
• Experience supporting adults with diverse communication and support needs
• Agreed expenses (if applicable)
• A welcoming and supportive volunteer environment

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

 Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

 Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

 Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

Volunteer Cook

 About the Role

We are looking for enthusiastic Volunteer Cooks to support people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss by helping to prepare and cook nutritious, enjoyable meals. This rewarding role provides an opportunity to share your passion for food, encourage independence, and help create positive social experiences through cooking and shared mealtimes.

 The Difference You Will Make

As a Volunteer Cook, you will help people develop practical cooking skills, build confidence, and enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals. Your support can promote independence, social inclusion, and wellbeing while creating opportunities for people to learn, connect, and enjoy new experiences.

 What You Will Do

• Support people to prepare and cook simple meals and snacks.
• Encourage participation in food preparation and kitchen activities.
• Promote safe food handling and good kitchen hygiene practices.
• Assist with meal planning and shopping lists where appropriate.
• Help create a welcoming and enjoyable cooking environment.
• Support individuals to develop confidence and independence in the kitchen.
• Work alongside staff to ensure activities are safe, enjoyable, and inclusive.
• Assist with clearing up and maintaining a clean kitchen area after sessions.

 What We Are Looking For

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. You do not need to be a professional chef—just someone who enjoys cooking and supporting others.

We are looking for people who are:

• Friendly, patient, and reliable.
• Passionate about cooking and healthy eating.
• Good communicators and supportive team players.
• Respectful of diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiastic about helping people learn new skills.
• Able to encourage and motivate others in a positive way.

 Requirements

Successful volunteers will be required to:

• Complete an enhanced DBS check.
• Provide two satisfactory references.
• Complete some online training
• Follow SeeAbility's policies and procedures, including safeguarding, food hygiene, and health and safety requirements.

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a specialist charity supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious lives. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve their goals, develop independence, and be part of their community.

Volunteers play a vital role in helping us provide meaningful opportunities, develop life skills, and support the people we work with to achieve their aspirations.