Volunteer lead volunteer roles in dartford, kent

About us

Age UK is the country's leading charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. The over-60s is the fastest-growing group in society and there are more of us than ever before. Ageing is not an illness, but it can be challenging. At Age UK we provide services and support at a national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people. We stand up and speak for all those who have reached later life, and also protect the long-term interests of future generations..

The role in a nutshell:

Volunteers help to keep our UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you! What will you be doing?

Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.

How would you be supported in this role?

When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.

Additional information:

We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.

Volunteer with Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure

Stepping Stones is a small, friendly charity in Southwark providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills.

We’re currently looking for volunteers to support our sessions in:

• Art (Friday mornings)
• Dance Fit (Thursday mornings and/or afternoons)
• Music (Tuesday mornings and/or afternoons)
• Social Club (Thursday afternoons)

These weekly groups offer creative, social, and wellbeing-focused opportunities for our learners, led by experienced tutors in a relaxed, supportive setting.

All sessions take place at St Faith’s Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations)

What You’ll Do

As a volunteer, you’ll be supporting adults with learning disabilities to participate fully in the sessions, connect with others, and enjoy meaningful activities. Your role might include:

• Setting up and packing away equipment and materials
• Welcoming students and their carers or support workers
• Offering encouragement and practical support in one-to-one or small group settings
• Helping tutors to deliver fun, engaging activities

All sessions are led by experienced tutors, and you’ll be part of a warm and supportive staff and volunteer team who are committed to inclusion, creativity and care.

What You’ll Gain

Volunteering with us is a chance to:

• Build experience working with adults with learning disabilities
• Gain hands on involvement in creative, wellbeing and social activities
• Be part of a welcoming and friendly team
• Develop your confidence, communication and teamwork skills
• Make a meaningful contribution to your local community
• Learn from people with diverse experiences 

Whether you’re exploring a career in social care or looking to give back and become a stronger link in your community, we’d love to hear from you.

Who We’re Looking For

You don’t need to be an expert! We’re looking for people with the right attitude, values, and willingness to support others. Even if you don’t have experience of working with adults with learning disabilities, the following qualities are especially helpful:

• Enthusiasm and positivity. Your energy can set the tone for the group. A cheerful presence helps create a welcoming and encouraging environment.
• Patience. Some learners may take time to engage or communicate. Patience helps build trust and ensures everyone feels supported.
• Reliable and punctual. Many of our learners value consistency and routine. Being dependable helps build rapport and ensures the session runs smoothly.
• Inclusive communication skills. You should feel confident listening carefully, offering clear instructions or encouragement, and adapting your communication to meet individual needs.
• Inclusive and non-judgemental. We welcome people from all walks of life. An open-minded approach helps every learner feel accepted and valued.
• Adaptable and flexible. Things don’t always go to plan. A calm, flexible approach helps maintain a relaxed and safe environment for our sessions to run.
• Ready to get stuck in! Many sessions involve art, music or movement. You don’t need to be an expert, but a willingness to join in and get involved makes a big difference.

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to:

• Attend an induction meeting
• Provide two references
• Complete a DBS check (we will arrange this)
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we ask that you commit to volunteer for a minimum of a year with us.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and answer the following questions (these will come up when you hit "Apply"):

• What session(s) would you like to volunteer in?
• Why you would like to volunteer with Stepping Stones?
• What are the strongest attributes and values you feel you will bring to your volunteering role?

About us

Age UK is the country's leading charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. The over-60s is the fastest-growing group in society and there are more of us than ever before. Ageing is not an illness, but it can be challenging. At Age UK we provide services and support at a national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people. We stand up and speak for all those who have reached later life, and also protect the long-term interests of future generations..

The role in a nutshell:

Volunteers help to keep our UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you! What will you be doing?

Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.

How would you be supported in this role?

When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.

Additional information:

We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.

About us

Age UK is the country's leading charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. The over-60s is the fastest-growing group in society and there are more of us than ever before. Ageing is not an illness, but it can be challenging. At Age UK we provide services and support at a national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people. We stand up and speak for all those who have reached later life, and also protect the long-term interests of future generations..

The role in a nutshell:

Volunteers help to keep our UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you! What will you be doing?

Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.

How would you be supported in this role?

When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.

Additional information:

We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.

About us

Age UK is the country's leading charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. The over-60s is the fastest-growing group in society and there are more of us than ever before. Ageing is not an illness, but it can be challenging. At Age UK we provide services and support at a national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people. We stand up and speak for all those who have reached later life, and also protect the long-term interests of future generations..

The role in a nutshell:

Volunteers help to keep our UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you! What will you be doing?

Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.

How would you be supported in this role?

When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.

Additional information:

We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.

Role Title- Lead Graphic Designer

Location- Remote, UK-based

Time Commitment- Project based Part time/Flexible hours

Are you a visual storyteller with a passion for branding and design leadership? We are seeking a visionary Lead Graphic Designer to shape our creative direction and bring bold ideas to life. In this role, you will be working on end-to-end design projects, and collaborate cross-functionally to deliver compelling campaigns that elevate our brand and captivate our audience.

Please note- This is a voluntary unpaid role. There is no direct financial compensation or future paid opportunity attached.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop engaging and impactful visual brand assets for Youth Advantage UK (YAUK).
• Establish, document, and maintain comprehensive brand identity guidelines to ensure consistency and quality across all creative outputs.
• Lead the strategic redesign and day-to-day management of the Youth Advantage UK website (hosted on Wix).
• Design high-quality, fast-turnaround visual assets for LinkedIn and other social media channels to support timely campaigns, events, and organisational storytelling.

Essential Skills

• Strong graphic design and visual storytelling abilities.
• Experience in editorial layout and digital design.
• Proficiency in photo editing, ideally skilled in Adobe Photoshop.
• Familiarity with creative tools such as Canva, Adobe After Effects, or Premiere is advantageous, though not essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or a related field, or currently pursuing one.
• A portfolio showcasing academic or professional design work.
• Recent or soon-to-be graduates are highly encouraged to apply—this volunteer, project-based role offers a valuable opportunity to build your portfolio and gain experience that can be cited as relevant professional work.

Note:

This is a volunteer, project-based position, contribution can be cited as as professional experience.

Benefits

• 100% remote and flexible working schedule
• Supportive and friendly team environment
• Opportunity to build your portfolio and gain valuable experience
• Make a meaningful impact on the lives and rights of young people in the UK

Why Volunteer with Us?

We are a supportive and friendly organization that takes pride in developing and nurturing our volunteers. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization, enhance your skills, and gain valuable experience in the nonprofit sector

About us

Age UK is the country's leading charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. The over-60s is the fastest-growing group in society and there are more of us than ever before. Ageing is not an illness, but it can be challenging. At Age UK we provide services and support at a national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people. We stand up and speak for all those who have reached later life, and also protect the long-term interests of future generations..

The role in a nutshell:

Volunteers help to keep our UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you! What will you be doing?

Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.

How would you be supported in this role?

When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.

Additional information:

We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.

Fundraising volunteer

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you! 

You can expect us to

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

What we need from you

This is a really flexible role, you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example: 

• face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins 

• online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations

• marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press  

• completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork

● championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement

● photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection

Time expectation

This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!

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

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

Join HELPING CHILDREN INC – Make a Global Impact from Anywhere

HELPING CHILDREN INC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in California, USA, is seeking committed, passionate, and qualified individuals from every country to serve as Online Volunteer Country Directors. This is a remote leadership opportunity to represent HELPING CHILDREN INC in your country and play a key role in advancing our mission to protect, support, and empower children globally.

�� About HELPING CHILDREN INC

We are a global nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children through health, education, protection, and empowerment programs. From humanitarian aid to policy advocacy, our work spans continents and cultures – driven by a commitment to equity and justice.

�� Role: Online Volunteer Country Director

Location: Your country (fully remote)
Time Commitment: Flexible (minimum 5–8 hours per week)
Compensation: Volunteer / Unpaid
Reporting to: Global Volunteer Coordinator, HELPING CHILDREN INC

��️ Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the official country representative of HELPING CHILDREN INC

• Establish and grow a network of volunteers in your country

• Identify local needs and opportunities to implement or partner on child-focused projects

• Organize virtual awareness campaigns, fundraising, and outreach events

• Coordinate with the international team for reporting and alignment with global strategy

• Represent HELPING CHILDREN INC in local forums, events, or online platforms

• Promote HELPING CHILDREN INC through local partnerships and media

✅ Ideal Candidate

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Passionate about child rights, education, health, and protection

• Fluent in English (basic proficiency required)

• Active in their local communities or online networks

• Strong communicators with leadership or coordination experience

• Able to commit time consistently and responsibly

• Tech-savvy and capable of using email, Google Drive, and Zoom

• Students, professionals, educators, activists, and retired individuals are welcome

�� Benefits to You

• Serve a meaningful cause from the comfort of your home

• Gain global nonprofit leadership experience

• Receive a Certificate of Appointment as Country Director

• Access to exclusive training, resources, and networking opportunities

• Be featured on HELPING CHILDREN INC’s website and social media as an ambassador

• Contribute ideas to global child development projects

• Opportunity to lead your own team of volunteers in-country

�� Join Us and Be the Voice for Children in Your Country

Together, we can create a better world for children—no matter where we are. Become an Online Country Director with HELPING CHILDREN INC and help bring lasting change.

Would you like me to also prepare a Google Form template for application submission or provide a version

The International Council of Museums in the United Kingdom (ICOM UK) is seeking a new trustee with strong financial acumen and a passion for the museums and heritage sector and working internationally to be the Finance Lead on our Board. This is a strategic finance role to support the Strategic Director and advise the Board of Trustees in respect of the conduct of the charity’s financial affairs.  

The role requires experience and skills in financial planning and management, preferably in a charity and/or company, along with the ability to understand and communicate the impact of decisions on the organisation’s finances. 

We welcome applications from professionals with the skills, knowledge and lived experience that will strengthen and diversify our Board. 

 For further details on the roles and ICOM UK, you can view our Finance Lead Trustee Recruitment  Pack. 

We are looking for friendly, enthusiastic and energetic volunteers to walk our Wellness Walk routes with our participants to be someone that walkers can chat to if they’ve arrived and walking alone, provide a morale boost and support.

As the UK’s leading diabetes charity, it’s our job to tackle the diabetes crisis. We’re here to prevent type 2 diabetes, campaign for and support everyone affected by diabetes, and fund research that will one day lead us to a cure.

Thousands of people from across the UK will take part in our fun and family-friendly, sponsored Wellness Walks. It’s a chance to get out outside, take a deep breath, seize the day and change the world for everyone affected by diabetes.

There are currently 3 Wellness Walks held across the UK. We ask our walkers to think about their wellbeing and make a few small changes to how they live their lives, so that they can begin to feel healthier.

The walks are between 8-10 miles and are fully accessible – so pushchairs and mobility scooters are welcome.

Route volunteers guide walkers accurately and keep enthusiasm high. You must be aged 16+ to volunteer for this role (16 - 17 year olds must with be with a parent or guardian aged 18+), Volunteers in these roles will be positioned at key points on the walk route and will:

• Ensure walkers are heading in the right direction
• Motivate and cheer people on as they walk past your position
• Hand out hypo snacks, plasters or report medical incidents
• Monitor and report back to the route manager

Trail Coordinator

Role Type: Volunteer
Time Commitment: Flexible – typically 1–2 events per month
Location: In-person (various walking/hiking spots)

About the role:
As a Trail Coordinator, you’ll support the planning and smooth running of our mindful strides walks and hikes. This might mean choosing beautiful, accessible routes, helping with safety checks, welcoming attendees, or guiding the group on the day. You don’t need to be a super experienced hiker, just confident, calm, and happy being outdoors with others.

You might enjoy this role if you:

• Love walking, nature, and exploring

• Are organised and enjoy thinking about logistics

• Feel confident leading small groups or supporting someone who does

• Care about creating safe, inclusive outdoor spaces

TWO DIFFERENT POSITIONS AVAILABLE!

About Us – Bigger Than Us

Bigger Than Us is a bold and heart-led initiative that supports early-stage nonprofit and social enterprise founders, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, through immersive in-person intensives and residencies. We create spaces for mission-driven leaders to grow their organisations, connect with like-minded changemakers, and sustain themselves while doing purpose-led work.

We believe building a better world shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. That’s why our programs focus on strategy and sustainability as well as wellness, leadership development, and community building.

Volunteer Role: Administrative Assistant

Location: Remote (with occasional Zoom check-ins)
Time Commitment: 4–6 hours/week (flexible)

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a detail-oriented and highly organised Administrative Assistant volunteer to support the smooth running of our July Intensive and general operations. You’ll work closely with the founder and the partnerships lead to help coordinate logistics, manage communications, and keep everything on track behind the scenes.

Key Responsibilities

• Help manage participant and speaker communication (emailing, scheduling reminders, etc.)

• Track sign-ups, responses, and forms in spreadsheets or Airtable

• Support with workshop scheduling and calendar invites

• Assist with meeting notes and light project management

• General admin tasks as needed to support program delivery

We’d Love to Hear From You If:

• You’re reliable, proactive, and love getting things organised

• You enjoy supporting a small but passionate team

• You’re familiar with Google Drive, Calendars, and can pick up tools like Airtable quickly

• You care about social justice, equity, or nonprofit work

• Bonus: You’ve worked in admin or operations before (not required!)

Volunteer Role: Community Outreach Lead

Location: Remote
Time Commitment: 3-6 hours/week (flexible, but some daytime availability is helpful)

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a creative, people-loving Community Outreach Lead volunteer to help us expand our reach. You’ll be responsible for finding and connecting with early-stage nonprofit founders who would benefit from the Bigger Than Us Intensive. This is a great role if you enjoy relationship building and believe deeply in equity and representation in the social impact space.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and identify mission-aligned founders, organisations, and networks

• Reach out to prospective participants via email or LinkedIn

• Support follow-ups and manage a simple outreach tracker

• Help build and maintain relationships with community partners

• Share ideas for how we can reach and engage diverse communities

We’d Love to Hear From You If:

• You’re a great communicator and feel confident reaching out to new people

• You’re passionate about equity, justice, and supporting underrepresented founders

• You’re organised and consistent with follow-ups

• You enjoy storytelling and can convey the spirit of our work warmly and clearly

• Bonus: You’ve worked in community outreach, partnerships, or engagement before

What You’ll Get From Volunteering With Us

• A chance to work closely with a visionary founder, building a growing movement

• Mentorship and experience in nonprofit management, program delivery, and/or partnerships

• Impact—you’ll be helping early-stage founders access something transformative

• A supportive and values-led environment where your voice matters

We look forward to receiving your application!

Womankind is recruiting reliable and resilient women, who are able to commit to 1-2 daytime hours each week for six months, to join our Volunteer Befriending Service. Befrienders encourage and support vulnerable women who have experienced or are experiencing domestic abuse, empowering them to make their own decisions and improve their mental health and wellbeing so that they can lead more fulfilling lives. 

Training: 

Befrienders attend an initial online meet & greet session and then receive 4 taught sessions of comprehensive training over Zoom. These sessions will take place over 4 weeks, starting in Autumn 2025 (DATES AND TIMES TBC). Befrienders will be expected to complete homestudy in between sessions. You will be part of a team of trainees and benefit from peer support as well as help and guidance from the Volunteer Coordinator. Our training comes with over 30 years of experience working in women’s mental health, giving volunteers the very best preparation for the role, and a support network of like-minded women. 

The Role: 

Upon the completion of training, each volunteer is matched with one woman who has experienced childhood abuse, trauma, sexual violence and/or domestic abuse, and will be experiencing mental ill health and social isolation. 

As a befriender you would be expected to commit 1-2 hours on a weekly basis for 6 months and attend monthly group and individual supervision. Many of our volunteers decide they would like to be matched with another woman after the completion of their first match and continue volunteering with us for another 6 months. 

You and your befriendee would start by getting to know each other gradually. Once you have built up your relationship, you would support her emotionally, using active listening skills and providing her with a space to express her feelings and feel heard. You would help her to believe that she can achieve her goals and have safer relationships. Part of your role would be demonstrating what a healthy and boundaried relationship looks like. 

You: 

You will be enthusiastic and interested in helping another woman improve her mental health and wellbeing so that she can lead a more fulfilling life. You will be friendly and non-judgemental, have good communication skills and be a reliable and patient listener. 

The befriending role can be challenging and emotionally overwhelming at times. Therefore, we need befrienders who have adequate life experience and feel emotionally robust and resilient enough to take on the role. We welcome volunteers with personal experience of mental health and other relevant issues but will require you to have at least a one-year period of stability and ideally to have received professional help like counselling in your recovery. 

As this is a remote service, we welcome applications from women who are based across the UK. 

Please note, there is very limited availability for women who can only volunteer during the evenings and weekends. 

Because of the nature of this role, it is only open to women applicants and is exempt under Schedule 9 Part 1 Equalities Act 2010. 

At Womankind we recognise that while women share many characteristics and experiences as a result of living within a patriarchal society, women belonging to marginalised groups experience discrimination on multiple fronts. It is really important to us that the women who use our services feel represented amongst our volunteers. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life, especially from groups which are marginalised and underrepresented in our organisation, such as working-class women and Black and Minoritised women. 

 What Past Befrienders Say: 

“I loved the training, that was possibly one of my favourite things about this whole experience...it was really thorough. I loved being in a space with like-minded women – and it was also challenging, which I liked.” 

“In terms of supervision and knowledge, how to prepare the role – it was much more prepared, much more in depth than other places I’ve volunteered.” 

“It’s been a pleasure, I love volunteering with you guys. It’s special being part of this – in a world where are so few spaces where you can have a direct impact on someone’s life, doing this role is really special.” 

Closing Date: 31/08/2025 

Job Type: Volunteer 

Work Location: Remote, must be UK-based