Volunteer Leader Volunteer Roles

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to join our team as a Volunteer for Community Events. In this role, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact by attending and facilitating community events for LGBTQIA+ Muslim groups in Manchester. Some of the responsibilities include, but aren't limited to:

● Assist the Community Trustee in researching and planning events for the hub in Manchester, London and Scotland

● Communicate with members on our Discord channel to coordinate attendance and activities

● Liaise with speakers, performers, and workshop facilitators to ensure their needs are met and their contributions align with the goals and values of the community.

● Set up and take down meeting rooms including workshop materials, refreshments and other ops as required

● Engage with attendees, volunteers, and stakeholders during events to ensure a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

● Record attendance collect feedback and evaluate the success of each event, making recommendations for improvement.

● Assist workshop leaders and Trustees in delivering activities

● Assist with special projects and initiatives as directed by the Trustees

How much commitment is required?

We are flexible around your schedule. However, the following commitments are in place for volunteers.

● Attend monthly meetings to update on tasks, progress etc.

● Aim to attend all other planning meetings as necessary

● Attend all Hidayah Hub events

● Attend other Hidayah events where geographically possible

● Add to and maintain the administration of our file-sharing system ‘Google Drive’ to ensure it’s up to date with clear records, templates and forms

● Check and respond to emails in a timely manner

● Contribute to the communications group (via Discord) and stay up to date with Hidayah developments

● Keep up to date with Hidayah communication and organisational developments

What do we expect from a volunteer?

Qualities:

● Strong commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTQIA+ Muslim individuals.

● Knowledge or understanding of the specific challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ Muslims in Manchester.

● Excellent organizational and time management skills.

● Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

● Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

● Flexibility and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of the community.

● Previous experience in events or coordination is preferable but not mandatory.

● Join Hidayah Membership and Hidayah Discord server

● Participating and contributing to discussions on the Hidayah Discord server

● Read all Hidayah policies, keeping up to date with any changes

● Read, understand and agree with the constitution of Hidayah (available on our website)

● Working knowledge of Google Suite, Microsoft, as well as project management, web and comms tools 

Personality:

● A self-starter who can volunteer with minimal supervision

● Friendliness, enthusiasm, dedication, responsiveness, flexibility and eagerness in supporting the aims, vision and mission of Hidayah

Personal Skills:

● Confidence taking the lead with plans and ideas at Trustee meetings

● Ability to resolving conflict situations if needed

● Professionalism in all situations

Please ensure you do not have a conflict of interest with your current role and check this prior to applying for this role.

Benefits to volunteering with Hidayah

Volunteering with Hidayah brings a range of a benefits such as:

● Contributing to Hidayah’s cause

● Supporting vulnerable communities

● Connecting with like-minded, passionate people

● Experience working in community events

● Development of professional networking skills

●       Travel expenses reimbursed (capped at £20)

A bit about this role

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. Life in a rescue environment is never ideal for any cat compared to a loving home. Our Cat Adoption Team Leaders support cat homing and as part of this they may lead a team of volunteer home visitors who collectively play an important part in matching our feline friends with their new families. Our Cat Adoption Team Leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Acting as the main point of contact within the branch for cat adoption enquiries via email / telephone and social media
• Supporting the adoption process through either homefinder questionnaires or a small team of home visitors
• Liaising closely with other branch volunteers to ensure information on cats being helped is correct and up to date
• Following up on any post-adoption queries
• Play an active part in the branch committee, being part of the branch team leading on cat adoption information and updates
• Collaborating with the Cat Welfare Team Leader to ensure the highest standards of cat care are applied in line with Cats Protection policy and procedures

A bit more information about this role and the team

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by leading and supporting a wider team of volunteers in cat adoption roles. You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and you will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Good knowledge of cats and cat welfare
• An appreciation of suitable homing environments
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Good record keeping and administration skills
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• Patience and the ability to handle sensitive situations with objectivity and pragmatism
• Willingness to be part of a team
• A positive, open approach with the ability to bring out the best in others
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

The Cat Adoption Team Leader role is vital within our busy volunteer branches and centres. Our current volunteers spend around 10 to 12 hours per week in this flexible role, which can be shared by more than one volunteer if required.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance 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.

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.

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in South West London, and helps them to play their full part in the community. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives. 

We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background, providing them the tools they need to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for adults include currently include: ESOL classes; sports; women’s creative writing; women’s coffee morning, and casework. 

About the CARAS Adult Team: 

In the post-pandemic environment, CARAS is responding to the role of digital literacies in our programme delivery to learners of asylum-seeking and refugee background. In contrast to the UK essential Digital skills framework, we have built in language inclusion to create a participatory learning course for Essential Digital Literacies for learners who are new to reading and writing in English. The individuals joining CARAS are highly diverse, with different countries of origin, linguistic and educational backgrounds. We have observed over the last year that many CARAS community members have limited digital skills, particularly in regard to using computers. Community members have highlighted that computers are important for many individuals to achieve their educational and employment goals, whilst increasing confidence and independence. We have co-designed a digital skills program in partnership with CARAS community members to improve computer literacy and skills, focusing on basic computer literacy.

About the Role: 

We are seeking two volunteers based in London to teach our lively computer classes in Tooting every Monday 9:00-11:00. Volunteers will lead the sessions with guidance from the CARAS ESOL Teacher and will work closely with our community members to build their skills and confidence using computers. The Digital Literacies course at CARAS is built around Pre-entry to Entry 2 levels in English. Volunteers will be supporting individuals with tasks such as: getting to know how to use a computer, using the internet, setting up an email address, and using Microsoft office. We intend to fold employability sessions, including CV writing and job searching, into these sessions. 

Volunteer Tasks and responsibilities: 

· Lead on the delivery of sessions with support from CARAS’s Essential Digital Skills Teacher. 

· Assist with the logistical set up of the sessions, supporting CARAS staff where needed. 

· Work collaboratively as a team and assisting to shape the project. 

· Create class registers and records as required. 

· To attend and contribute to volunteer pre- and de-briefs at each session. 

· To act as a positive role model and set standards of behaviour when volunteering. 

· Support people to develop their knowledge and skills and encourage and inspire participants to reach their full potential. 

· To assist participants to both, recognise and celebrate their achievements. 

· To challenge negative attitudes and behaviour in an appropriate manor. 

· Advocate for the rights of asylum seekers, refugees and migrants with not for them. 

· Adhering to CARAS Confidentiality policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant. 

Requirements: 

· To be non-judgemental, and able and willing to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. 

· To be female identifying. 

· Have a good understanding of how to use a computer. 

· To be reliable and punctual. 

· Excellent presentation and communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English. 

· Commitment to support people seeking asylum to take control of their asylum journey. 

· Ability to volunteer every Friday for a minimum of three months. 

· Current resident in the UK. 

· Ability to work in Tooting SW17. 

· To provide five years’ worth of addresses and be willing to undergo a DBS check. 

· To attend CARAS General and Safeguarding Training sessions. 

· To be 18 years or older. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

· Meet new members of your local community 

· Learn about different cultures 

· Learn about issues relating to refugee and asylum seekers 

· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team 

· Develop your skills and competencies 

· Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding 

To Apply: 

To apply for this opportunity, download and complete the CARAS volunteer application form from the CARAS website using this volunteer role description to inform your answers.

Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with a member of the CARAS staff team. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP! 

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.

Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.

A bit about this role

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. Our Cat Welfare Team Leaders have the important role of coordinating, encouraging and supporting teams of fosterer volunteers and cat care volunteers. They help make sure volunteers with direct cat care roles are happy and confident and provide advice and guidance when needed. This incredible teamwork means we are able to help more cats and kittens in need.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Volunteering alongside colleagues including the Branch Coordinator, Cat Welfare team, Branch Development Manager and Vet team to ensure that CP cat care policies, procedures and standards are applied in branch
• Support fosterers to follow Cats Protection cat welfare policies and procedures
• Acting as the main point of contact within the branch for cat welfare and ensuring that welfare updates are shared and implemented effectively
• Supporting the branch by ensuring that accurate and up to date records of all cats helped are maintained, using specified Cats Protection systems
• Attending relevant Cats Protection volunteer training sessions and encouraging other volunteers to do likewise
• With the other volunteers, recruit, induct and support all branch fosterers and cat care volunteers using Cats Protection processes
• Represent the branch at relevant meetings
• Play an active part in the branch committee, being part of the branch team leading on cat adoption information and updates
• Collaborating with the Cats Protection Cat Adoption Team Leader to ensure the highest standards of cat care are applied in line with Cats Protection policy and procedures

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by leading and supporting other volunteers in direct cat care roles. You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• A willingness to follow Cats Protection policies and procedures
• Basic knowledge and experience of cat welfare
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to engage with people on all levels, to build strong and effective relationships
• A willingness to develop themselves and others and to update knowledge and skills as necessary
• Good administration and organisational skills
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• The ability to handle sensitive issues with objectivity and pragmatism
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

The time expectation for this role will vary depending on the number of volunteers and cats in care. Our Cat Welfare Team Leaders usually spend between 10 to 12 hours per week in this role which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. 

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance 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.

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.

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. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.

A bit about this role

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats and kittens each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups. We have over 250 branches across the UK, all of which help our feline friends in different ways. Branches take in stray and abandoned cats and ensure they receive the veterinary care and attention they deserve, help raise funds, promote neutering and help spread cat welfare messages. Our branch team leader volunteers lead their local team by supporting and managing volunteers within their group, maintaining communications with both volunteers and staff, and helping promote a positive and professional image of Cats Protection.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Supporting your team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure volunteers are happy and confident
• Making sure the team observes charity best practice and compliance
• Collaborating with your Branch Development Manager (BDM) to plan volunteer activity
• Leading the team to follow Cats Protection policies, procedures and guidelines
• Monitoring expenditure and helping ensure long term financial stability of the volunteer group
• Organising and chairing team meetings
• Acting as an ambassador for Cats Protection

A bit more information about this role and the team

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by supporting other volunteers in their roles. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Strong interpersonal, leadership and people management skills
• Experience of promoting a positive team environment
• Confidence and experience of ensuring policies, procedures and processes are met
• Excellent communication skills with individuals and groups at all levels
• Organisational skills and the ability to prioritise and delegate
• Ability to think and plan ahead
• Patience and diplomacy
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

Our branch team leader volunteers usually spend 10 to 15 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. There will be times of year when more hours are required, such as towards the end of the financial year, but support and guidance are always available.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance 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.

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.

We are looking for dedicated Outreach Volunteers in the London Boroughs of Kingston, Richmond and Wandsworth. We would particularly like to hear from you if you live in or near the above boroughs.

The Outreach teams encounter people on their first steps from homelessness to independence – providing pathways and support to assist people off the streets.

We work with people who are rough sleeping and we do shifts late at night, and early in the morning, to find these individuals. SPEAR then works with people on a housing pathway and assists them to link into various support services, tailored to the challenges an individual might face.

SPEAR is looking for self-motivated, outgoing, and empathic people who could volunteer to provide support to vulnerably housed, rough sleepers, or anyone using homelessness services in the London boroughs of Richmond, Wandsworth and Kingston.

The volunteer will enjoy developing positive relationships with new people and will be willing to work outside of their own comfort zone providing support and assistance to the Outreach Teams clients. The volunteer must have an enhanced DBS background check (SPEAR will apply for this on your behalf.)
It would be desirable if you had a driving license.

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.

Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. 

Please note that we are looking for volunteers to work Sundays, ideally with the flexibility to do other days as and when required. Please do not apply to this role if you are under 18 years of age.

We’re looking for volunteers who are:

• A leader, able to motivate others and get them involved to achieve great results.
• A team player who is good with people and enjoys interacting with the public.
• Passionate about providing great customer service; friendly and helpful. 
• Enthusiastic and motivated with a positive attitude.
• Flexible, proactive, reliable and trustworthy.
• Confident with cash handling and have an eye for detail.
• Aware of health and safety issues and happy to follow policies and procedures.
• Respectful of others and their diversity.
• Interested making a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind. 

Our Key Volunteers are shop volunteers who have additional responsibilities. This is a varied and responsible role where you’ll be provided with training that will equip you to support the Shop Manager and Assistant with the day to day running of the shop, including: 

• Provide a warm, friendly welcome to customers.
• Provide great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience, support other volunteers to do the same.
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public. 
• Processing sales and serving on the till.
• Open and close the shop when necessary to support the Shop Manager.
• Cash up the till at the end of the day.
• Support with sorting donations and price stock, keeping the shop stocked up, clean and tidy.
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives.
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community.
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers. 
• Following health and safety measures to ensure the safety of everyone.

We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. This is why it is important to us that our volunteers feel supported and rewarded. Here is what we can offer you as a volunteer:

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

About CARAS:

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in south-west London. We work primarily with people who are newly arrived in the UK, most of whom are living in temporary Home Office accommodation. Arriving as a refugee in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language barriers, accessing services, financial insecurity and ongoing uncertainty are extremely challenging and disempowering. CARAS is here to work collaboratively with community members to support them to build skills, connect meaningfully with their local community, and to build positive futures in the UK. 

CARAS offers a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background. For adults this currently includes: ESOL, digital skills and employability sessions; social and recreational activities and casework. All programs are interlinked and work hand-in-hand with one another. For example, community members can practice their spoken English in Coffee Afternoon, and casework issues might be picked up and referred into the team during an ESOL class. We design and develop our programs through consultation and ongoing conversations with our community members. We aim to have a strong volunteer presence across all our programs, fostering connections between asylum seekers and other Londoners! 

About CARAS’s Adult Programming and Coffee Afternoon:

CARAS has been providing support to adult refugee women since 2005, promoting skills and confidence development that helps women gain more power in their lives. In the aftermath of COVID, we have been able to expand our adult programmes, responding to the shifting demographics of those seeking asylum in the UK. We now run a range of mixed programmes for all genders, as well as some women-only spaces. Our coffee afternoon is a mixed group. 

Our coffee afternoon has been running since May 2022 and is one of our most popular groups. It takes place at TARA Theatre in Earlsfield from 1-2.30PM every Friday. Its primary aim is to reduce isolation amongst those we work with by providing a safe, friendly and welcoming space for people to have fun, learn about themselves and each other, and build connections.

In 2023, we have been running creative sessions during Coffee Afternoon, facilitated by freelance creative practitioners in partnership with TARA Theatre. These range from dance to drama, poetry to puppetry. For sessions without a creative practitioner, we sometimes host workshops on important topics such as healthcare rights or have an open and informal space for games and a chat. There is always coffee and a selection of baked goods! 

For more information on TARA Theatre, our partner and host, please visit their website.

Tasks and Responsibilities: 

• To attend CARAS coffee afternoon’s, every Friday between 1-2.30PM in Earlsfield, South-west London. They take place at TARA Theatre, right opposite Earlsfield Station. Location here- https://maps.app.goo.gl/rXwJiKHRj93YFtLG9 (356 Garratt Ln, London SW18 4ES). 
• If there is a week this is not possible, to tell CARAS staff as far in advance as you are able. 
• To welcome and connect with community members attending, working to ensure everyone at the group feels included. 

• To take part if there is a creative activity happening in that session, and help liaise with CARAS staff and the creative practitioner to ensure the activity runs smoothly. 
• To encourage and inspire community members to feel confident and reach their full potential. 
• To share conversation, and chat informally with our community members.
• To assist community members to both recognise and celebrate their achievements. 
• To challenge negative attitudes and behaviour in an appropriate manor. 
• To adhere to CARAS Confidentiality policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant. 

Requirements:

• To have interest in working with refugees and asylum seekers. 
• To be non-judgemental, and able and willing to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, and differing levels of English. 
• To be reliable and punctual. 
• To be a current resident in the UK. 
• To provide five years’ worth of addresses and be willing to undergo a UK DBS check.
• To attend CARAS General and Safeguarding Training, and any further training as necessary. 
• To be 18 years or older. 

Through volunteering with us you will:

• Meet new members of your local community 
• Learn about different cultures and life experiences from across the world 
• Learn about issues relating to refugee and asylum seekers 
• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team 
• Develop your skills and competencies 
• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding 

To Apply:

Please fill in the volunteer application form and email it to us. Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with the Head of Adult Inclusion and Adult Program Coordinator these meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP! 

Details for this role are in the description and not mentioned in the application form but please fill in your details in the Volunteer application form attached and send it back to us 

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.

Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

We’re looking for volunteers who are:

• A leader, able to motivate others and get them involved to achieve great results.
• A team player who is good with people and enjoys interacting with the public.
• Passionate about providing great customer service; friendly and helpful. 
• Enthusiastic and motivated with a positive attitude.
• Flexible, proactive, reliable and trustworthy.
• Confident with cash handling and have an eye for detail.
• Aware of health and safety issues and happy to follow policies and procedures.
• Respectful of others and their diversity.
• Interested making a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind. 

Our Key Volunteers are shop volunteers who have additional responsibilities. This is a varied and responsible role where you’ll be provided with training that will equip you to support the Shop Manager and Assistant with the day to day running of the shop, including: 

• Provide a warm, friendly welcome to customers.
• Provide great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience, support other volunteers to do the same.
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public. 
• Processing sales and serving on the till.
• Open and close the shop when necessary to support the Shop Manager.
• Cash up the till at the end of the day.
• Support with sorting donations and price stock, keeping the shop stocked up, clean and tidy.
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives.
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community.
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers. 
• Following health and safety measures to ensure the safety of everyone.

We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. This is why it is important to us that our volunteers feel supported and rewarded. Here is what we can offer you as a volunteer:

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

How you can make a difference!

Sense Holidays gives children, young people, adults with complex disabilities and their families the opportunity to have fun, meet new people and try new activities. Sense Holidays take place across the UK at a range of venues and vary. Each year we need skilled volunteers to help us deliver this exciting programme. 

The Volunteer Role involves:

• Staying in touch with Sense and your Holiday Leader before and during the Sense Holiday, raising any issues or concerns that may need addressing by the wider team.
• Attending the equivalent of one full day mandatory training which will be delivered virtually. You will also be asked to complete online e-Learning prior to the holiday.
• You will provide hands on support for the people on the holiday to meet their everyday needs. This may involve but is not limited to; supporting them to participate in group activities, making activities accessible to their particular needs, supporting the building of friendships and social communication.
• You may also be required to support holidaymakers with personal care including support with eating and drinking, washing, bathing and toileting. 
• Carry out tasks of daily living, such as cleaning the venue and cooking to maintain a clean and safe living environment.
• For those qualified and willing, you may be asked to complete Driving for Sense and drive an accessible vehicle on the holiday this could be a car, van or minibus depending on the holiday.

Current Holidays dates for Skipton: 6/08/2024 - 11/08/2024

Volunteer Role Criteria

Essential criteria: 

• Aged 18 or over.
• Have experience supporting those with additional needs. Please note, we can offer a small number of places to those who are less experienced.
• A skilled communicator.
• Have a positive, can-do attitude.
• Can demonstrate reliability.
• Can demonstrate resilience.

Desirable: 

• Able to perform gender appropriate care, e.g., male to male care.
• Able to use British Sign Language.
• Experience in moving and handling.
• A full driving license and willing to drive on a holiday.
• Experience cooking for large groups.

Why Volunteer for Sense?

Sense is a national disability charity supporting everyone who is deafblind or has complex disabilities. We believe everyone should be able to take part in life, no matter their disability.

Volunteering on a Sense Holiday requires resilience but offers an incredibly rewarding experience.

Benefits

• All food, drink, accommodation, and activities on the holiday are paid for by Sense Holidays.
• You will receive comprehensive training for your role.
• The chance to practice and use your existing skills to communicate with others. 
• An opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge about communicating and working with people with complex communication needs and multi-sensory impairments. 
• Up to £60 of your travel expense paid. 
• Full support from our team, including induction and training for this role, and regular ongoing support. 

Ready to make a difference?

Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all volunteers to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of places are subject to an enhanced DBS check.

How you can make a difference!

Sense Holidays gives children, young people, adults with complex disabilities and their families the opportunity to have fun, meet new people and try new activities. Sense Holidays take place across the UK at a range of venues and vary. Each year we need skilled volunteers to help us deliver this exciting programme. 

The Volunteer Role involves:

• Staying in touch with Sense and your Holiday Leader before and during the Sense Holiday, raising any issues or concerns that may need addressing by the wider team.
• Attending the equivalent of one full day mandatory training which will be delivered virtually. You will also be asked to complete online e-Learning prior to the holiday.
• You will provide hands on support for the people on the holiday to meet their everyday needs. This may involve but is not limited to; supporting them to participate in group activities, making activities accessible to their particular needs, supporting the building of friendships and social communication.
• You may also be required to support holidaymakers with personal care including support with eating and drinking, washing, bathing and toileting. 
• Carry out tasks of daily living, such as cleaning the venue and cooking to maintain a clean and safe living environment.
• For those qualified and willing, you may be asked to complete Driving for Sense and drive an accessible vehicle on the holiday this could be a car, van or minibus depending on the holiday.

Volunteer Role Criteria

Essential criteria: 

• Aged 18 or over.
• Have experience supporting those with additional needs. Please note, we can offer a small number of places to those who are less experienced.
• A skilled communicator.
• Have a positive, can-do attitude.
• Can demonstrate reliability.
• Can demonstrate resilience.

Desirable: 

• Able to use British Sign Language.
• Experience in moving and handling.
• A full driving license and willingness to drive on a holiday.
• Experience cooking for large groups.

Why Volunteer for Sense?

Sense is a national disability charity supporting everyone who is deafblind or has complex disabilities. We believe everyone should be able to take part in life, no matter their disability.

Volunteering on a Sense Holiday requires resilience but offers an incredibly rewarding experience.

Benefits

• All food, drink, accommodation, and activities on the holiday are paid for by Sense Holidays.
• You will receive comprehensive training for your role.
• The chance to practice and use your existing skills to communicate with others. 
• An opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge about communicating and working with people with complex communication needs and multi-sensory impairments. 
• Up to £60 of your travel expense paid. 
• Full support from our team, including induction and training for this role, and regular ongoing support. 

Ready to make a difference?

Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all volunteers to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of places are subject to an enhanced DBS check.

How you can make a difference!

Sense Holidays gives children, young people, adults with complex disabilities and their families the opportunity to have fun, meet new people and try new activities. Sense Holidays take place across the UK at a range of venues and vary. Each year we need skilled volunteers to help us deliver this exciting programme. 

The Volunteer Role involves:

• Staying in touch with Sense and your Holiday Leader before and during the Sense Holiday, raising any issues or concerns that may need addressing by the wider team.
• Attending the equivalent of one full day mandatory training which will be delivered virtually. You will also be asked to complete online e-Learning prior to the holiday.
• You will provide hands on support for the people on the holiday to meet their everyday needs. This may involve but is not limited to; supporting them to participate in group activities, making activities accessible to their particular needs, supporting the building of friendships and social communication.
• You may also be required to support holidaymakers with personal care including support with eating and drinking, washing, bathing and toileting. 
• Carry out tasks of daily living, such as cleaning the venue and cooking to maintain a clean and safe living environment.
• For those qualified and willing, you may be asked to complete Driving for Sense and drive an accessible vehicle on the holiday this could be a car, van or minibus depending on the holiday.

Current Holidays dates for Blackpool: 13/07/2024 - 18/07/2024

Volunteer Role Criteria

Essential criteria: 

• Aged 18 or over.
• Have experience supporting those with additional needs. Please note, we can offer a small number of places to those who are less experienced.
• A skilled communicator.
• Have a positive, can-do attitude.
• Can demonstrate reliability.
• Can demonstrate resilience.

Desirable: 

• Able to use British Sign Language.
• Experience in moving and handling.
• A full driving license and willing to drive on a holiday.
• Experience cooking for large groups.

Why Volunteer for Sense?

Sense is a national disability charity supporting everyone who is deafblind or has complex disabilities. We believe everyone should be able to take part in life, no matter their disability.

Volunteering on a Sense Holiday requires resilience but offers an incredibly rewarding experience.

Benefits

• All food, drink, accommodation, and activities on the holiday are paid for by Sense Holidays.
• You will receive comprehensive training for your role.
• The chance to practice and use your existing skills to communicate with others. 
• An opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge about communicating and working with people with complex communication needs and multi-sensory impairments. 
• Up to £60 of your travel expense paid. 
• Full support from our team, including induction and training for this role, and regular ongoing support. 

Ready to make a difference?

Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all volunteers to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of places are subject to an enhanced DBS check.

A bit about this role

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. The purpose of this role is to support the organisation with communications and administration at a local level. You’ll play an active part in the branch committee and support the branch with record keeping and planning, thus enabling more cats to be helped. 

What can you expect to be doing?

• Disseminating relevant organisation-wide information and updates to the branch volunteers

• Supporting engagement and communication between the branch and wider organisation

• Drafting committee meeting agendas and taking and sharing meeting minutes

• Supporting the efficient running of the branch by ensuring administration processes are carried out effectively

• Supporting the administration and update of the branch annual plan

• Sign-posting queries from members of the public

• Keeping branch records and information up to date and secure, using Cats Protection systems – training will be provided

A bit more information about this role and the team

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You’ll make a real difference to the lives of cats and kittens by helping maintain positive communications, managing administration processes and promoting the work of Cats Protection. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Strong administration skills and attention to detail
• Good communication skills
• Good organisation and prioritisation skills
• Good team-working skills
• Good IT skills to use Cats Protection systems – training and support can be provided
• A willingness to learn how the branch and organisation operates
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

Our support volunteers usually spend 2-5 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance 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.

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.

How you can make a difference!

Sense Holidays gives children, young people, adults with complex disabilities and their families the opportunity to have fun, meet new people and try new activities. Sense Holidays take place across the UK at a range of venues and vary. Each year we need skilled volunteers to help us deliver this exciting programme. 

The Volunteer Role involves:

• Staying in touch with Sense and your Holiday Leader before and during the Sense Holiday, raising any issues or concerns that may need addressing by the wider team.
• Attending the equivalent of one full day mandatory training which will be delivered virtually. You will also be asked to complete online e-Learning prior to the holiday.
• You will provide hands on support for the people on the holiday to meet their everyday needs. This may involve but is not limited to; supporting them to participate in group activities, making activities accessible to their particular needs, supporting the building of friendships and social communication.
• You may also be required to support holidaymakers with personal care including support with eating and drinking, washing, bathing and toileting. 
• Carry out tasks of daily living, such as cleaning the venue and cooking to maintain a clean and safe living environment.
• For those qualified and willing, you may be asked to complete Driving for Sense and drive an accessible vehicle on the holiday this could be a car, van or minibus depending on the holiday.

Volunteer Role Criteria

Essential criteria: 

• Able to support with gender appropriate personal care. For this role, volunteers must identify as male, to provide this care to our holidaymakers. 
• Aged 18 or over.
• Have experience supporting those with additional needs. Please note, we can offer a small number of places to those who are less experienced.
• A skilled communicator.
• Have a positive, can-do attitude.
• Can demonstrate reliability.
• Can demonstrate resilience.

Desirable: 

• Ideally live near the areas of Skipton, Gloucestershire, or the New Forest.
• Able to use British Sign Language.
• Experience in moving and handling.
• A full driving license and willingness to drive on a holiday.
• Experience cooking for large groups.

Why Volunteer for Sense?

Sense is a national disability charity supporting everyone who is deafblind or has complex disabilities. We believe everyone should be able to take part in life, no matter their disability.

Volunteering on a Sense Holiday requires resilience but offers an incredibly rewarding experience.

Benefits

• All food, drink, accommodation, and activities on the holiday are paid for by Sense Holidays.
• You will receive comprehensive training for your role.
• The chance to practice and use your existing skills to communicate with others. 
• An opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge about communicating and working with people with complex communication needs and multi-sensory impairments. 
• Up to £60 of your travel expense paid. 
• Full support from our team, including induction and training for this role, and regular ongoing support. 

Ready to make a difference?

Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all volunteers to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of places are subject to an enhanced DBS check.