Volunteer team assistant volunteer roles

Shop Volunteering Opportunities

Islington

Our shops are at the heart of local communities raising vital funds for our fight against homelessness and bad housing - and they’re powered by our volunteers!

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

Availability: The shop is open Monday - Saturday 10:00-18:00 and Sunday 11:00-17:00. We are particularly looking for volunteers who can support us on Tuesday mornings

Location: 159 Upper Street, Islington, N1 1US

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager/Assistant Manager

Why volunteer with Shelter? 

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

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun. 

What can I do?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal chat to find the right role for you. Some roles involve a basic criminal record check being completed during recruitment. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us, but it may impact the ways you can get involved.

• Volunteering in the shop

Our retail volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

- You will not undergo a criminal record check for this role  

• Volunteering in the community

Our Van Driver’s mates are out and about supporting drivers with delivering and collecting stock throughout the local area. They play a key part in getting donations to and from shops. This role does require the ability to lift heavy items. 

• Volunteering in a leadership role

Our volunteer supervisors help with overseeing the running of our shop and creating a fantastic environment for our customers. You may be involved with coordinating and supporting other volunteers, operating computer systems, and being a key point of contact for the shop.

Skills and Experiences Required:

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked in a shop before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow Shelter’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for Shelter. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of bad housing or homelessness.

Induction, Learning and Development:

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

• Welcome you with a Volunteer Handbook
• Provide training, induction, and ongoing support from your Shop Manager to help you feel confident in your role
• Refund any out-of-pocket expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter…

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness
• Gain valuable experience in a retail environment
• Getting involved in your local community and being part of a great team
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills

We aim to respond to all applications within 14 days

If you would like to find out more about the volunteering opportunity before applying, why not pop into the shop, or contact us.

Our Shop Volunteers raise money for the people we support with a Learning Disability. Do you have a few hours a week to spare and share your time with us?

Our retail roles are varied and fun. You could be sorting donations from the public, dressing our window or serving customers on the till. There are many people from different walks of life and it's a great way to get practical experience and to meet new people.

This role will take place on a weekly basis for a few hours We will try our best to be flexible around the best time for you, but also need to consider the store opening times and volunteer rota. It could be a weekday or weekend, morning or afternoon, our stores are usually open 7 days a week. We’d appreciate any time that you can spare.

Whilst in the store, you will help with activities based on the needs of the Store Manager.

Tasks you could get up to whilst volunteering could include:

• Serving customers on the till
• Taking stock donations from the public
• Tagging and steaming stock for the shop floor
• Dressing the window displays
• Asking people to join us as a volunteer

As a Retail Volunteer you will be:

• Friendly and Approachable
• Reliable, Kind and Patient
• A good communicator (including listener)
• Willing to volunteer within guidelines and to take direction where necessary
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself

As a Mencap volunteer you will:

• Make new friends and raise important funds for people with a learning disability
• Get reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in line with our policy e.g. travel
• Receive full Training and support
• Volunteer alongside other people
• Have a chance to give back your local community

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.

We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us

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

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats and kittens each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups. We have branches across the UK, all of which help our cats 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 employees, and helping promote a positive and professional image of Cats Protection.

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

You’ll be:

• 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

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 available.

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.

We're looking for a finance assistant volunteer who can support the financial administration of the charity using our finance software,  Xero. We The volunteer will support the Chair to undertake regular financial tasks such as budgeting, reporting, and audits while ensuring financial transparency. 
 

Key Tasks and Objectives

• Support the financial management of the Charity using Xero
• Data Entry: Recording financial transactions such as donations, invoices and expenses into our finance software, Xero.
• Weekly Reconciling income into Xero from GoCardless, Stripe, PayPal and other third-party agencies that facilitate donations being made to the charity.
• Maintain financial and accounting records, ensuring accuracy and consistency
• Assist with preparing payroll and/or pension information for submission to an external payroll provider (when required)
• Assist with the preparation of the accounts, quarterly and annual accounts for accountant annually as well as supporting funder financial reports
• Track the financial situation of projects
• Ensure that all necessary financial information is recorded accurately
• Assist with financial forecasting and budgeting
• Document Management: Organising and filing receipts, invoices, and other financial documents (digitally).
• Assist the Chair, volunteers or members of staff in understanding and using the accounting software
• Any other tasks that may be required from time to time or during the final accounts period, as appropriate.
• Assist with general administration relating to finances

Key Skills or Qualifications

Essential:

• Knowledge and experience of using Xero accounting software, including tracking project spending, managing volunteers’ expenses and department spending, uploading invoices, reconciliation, etc.
• Understanding of tracking financial data and information
• Experience of working in a bookkeeping role
• Accurate and up-to-date knowledge and experience of charity finance, SORP and other relevant frameworks
• The ability to quickly understand the needs of and challenges faced by our small charity organisation
• Strong numeracy and financial management skills
• Strong organisational skills
• Comfortable working remotely
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Ability to quickly understand the needs of our team, organisation and users of our services (we are not expecting you to have an awareness of the condition we support)
• Good initiative and ability to work with little direct supervision, but will ask for help when needed
• Ability to work flexibly on your own and as part of a team with enthusiasm and commitment

Desirable:

• Knowledge of charity accounting including restricted and unrestricted funding 
• Understanding of financial management within a charity
• Verbal communication skills
• Competent with communication tools

Key Benefits

You will come part of our small, friendly, forward-thinking charity team. We are focused on reaching people who may not have heard about the Charity or about the condition. 

You would have a key role in ensuring good financial administration, which is crucial to the continued work of Burning Nights CRPS Support. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference to a small charity. You will be involved in ensuring we manage our financial inputs and outgoings in order to maintain the services and support we provide, allowing us to be a sustainable charity and fulfil our aims.

Position Title: Event Volunteer (Dewsbury area)

Location: Dewsbury and Surrounding Areas

Reports To: Event Coordinator/Volunteer Manager

About Us

Suicide Awareness Prevention UK (SAPUK) is a dedicated, non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC), established in 2016, focused on providing support to individuals dealing with suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Our goal is to guide people from distress toward hope, helping them regain the strength to live their lives to the fullest.

Job Summary:

As an Event Volunteer, you will assist in the smooth execution of [Event Name], ensuring all participants, attendees, and staff have a positive experience. This role is crucial to the success of the event and will involve a variety of tasks, including guest assistance, setup, and teardown, registration support, and crowd management.

Key Responsibilities:

Event Setup:

Help with setting up event spaces, booths, and signage.

Assist in arranging furniture, decorations, and equipment.

Guest Registration: 

Welcome attendees and check them in at the registration desk.

Distribute event materials, such as badges, programs, or giveaways.

Assisting Attendees:

Provide directions and information to event participants.

Help guests find their way to sessions, presentations, or activities.

Crowd Control & Monitoring:

Help manage the flow of people during the event, ensuring safety and order.

Monitor the event space to ensure cleanliness and organization.

Support Event Staff: 

Assist the event team with any other tasks as needed (e.g., coordinating speakers, distributing materials).

Event Teardown: 

Assist with the breakdown of event spaces and equipment.

Help in packing and organizing materials after the event concludes.

Skills & Qualifications:

Positive attitude and strong communication skills.

Ability to work in a team and take direction.

Punctual and reliable.

Flexible and adaptable to changes or last-minute requests.

Previous experience with events (preferred but not required).

Benefits for Volunteers:

Gain experience in event coordination and hospitality.

Free event entry and access to specific event activities.

Certificate of appreciation or volunteer hours (if applicable).

Networking opportunities with professionals and participants.

Training and development 

Benefits Package

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Work Type: Hybrid
Location: Remote & In-Person (London-based office)
Role Type: Voluntary (Unpaid, with expenses covered)
Status: Actively Interviewing

Time Commitment & Work Schedule:

• First Month:

  • 16 hours total (4 hours per week on Tuesdays)

  • Office-based every Tuesday from 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM to shadow the current Project Manager (Michelle)

• Ongoing (After Month 1):

  • 2–3 hours per week on Tuesdays (remote/office-based as needed)

  • Attendance at weekly Jumping Beans team meetings every Tuesday from 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM (online)

• Additional Requirements:

  • Required to be in the office at least two weeks before each school holiday period for planning and final confirmations

  • Must attend at least 2–3 Jumping Beans sessions per term

About the Role:

Are you an organised and proactive individual passionate about community-led programmes that support children and families? We are looking for a dedicated Volunteer Project Manager to oversee and lead our Jumping Beans Team—a vibrant, child-focused initiative offering enriching experiences for local families.

Key Responsibilities:

General Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Jumping Beans Team to ensure project success

• Coordinate and chair weekly Tuesday evening meetings

• Track team tasks, monitor progress, and ensure timely delivery

• Report regularly to the leadership team

• Collaborate across departments to align project goals and resource needs

On-Site Responsibilities During Jumping Beans Sessions:

1. Staff & Volunteer Coordination

• Brief staff and volunteers on the day’s plan and their roles

• Ensure child-to-staff ratios are maintained

• Manage volunteer and staff attendance

• Act as the main point of contact for staff and volunteer concerns

2. Activity Oversight

• Ensure activities run on schedule and engage children effectively

• Troubleshoot or adapt plans as needed

• Confirm all materials and equipment are prepared

3. Child Safety & Welfare

• Oversee child sign-in/sign-out

• Monitor for safeguarding issues and respond appropriately

• Manage minor incidents and maintain accurate records

• Ensure the venue is safe, clean, and child-friendly

4. Communication

• Welcome and update parents, address any concerns

• Serve as liaison between staff, children, parents, and visitors

• Escalate significant issues to senior leadership

5. Logistics & Administration

• Manage session supplies and resources

• Track attendance, consent forms, and incident logs

• Ensure awareness of allergies and special requirements

• Uphold all safeguarding, emergency, and first aid policies

6. Evaluation & Reporting

• Take note of successes and areas for improvement

• Gather informal feedback from children, parents, and staff

• Report session outcomes to leadership

Qualifications & Experience:

• Previous experience in project management or team leadership (paid or voluntary)

• Excellent organisational, communication, and time management skills

• Creative thinker with strong problem-solving abilities

• Experience working with or supporting children or families is a plus

Benefits & Impact:

• Help bring joy, structure, and support to children and families

• Gain valuable experience in project and team management

• Be part of a passionate, values-driven team

• Expand your network through connections with community leaders

• Personal and professional growth through hands-on leadership

Apply Now
Make a real impact in your community and develop leadership skills that last a lifetime.

Position Title: Event Volunteer (Blackburn area)

Location: Dewsbury and Surrounding Areas

Reports To: Event Coordinator/Volunteer Manager

About Us

Suicide Awareness Prevention UK (SAPUK) is a dedicated, non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC), established in 2016, focused on providing support to individuals dealing with suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Our goal is to guide people from distress toward hope, helping them regain the strength to live their lives to the fullest.

Job Summary:

As an Event Volunteer, you will assist in the smooth execution of [Event Name], ensuring all participants, attendees, and staff have a positive experience. This role is crucial to the success of the event and will involve a variety of tasks, including guest assistance, setup, and teardown, registration support, and crowd management.

Key Responsibilities:

Event Setup:

Help with setting up event spaces, booths, and signage.

Assist in arranging furniture, decorations, and equipment.

Guest Registration: 

Welcome attendees and check them in at the registration desk.

Distribute event materials, such as badges, programs, or giveaways.

Assisting Attendees:

Provide directions and information to event participants.

Help guests find their way to sessions, presentations, or activities.

Crowd Control & Monitoring:

Help manage the flow of people during the event, ensuring safety and order.

Monitor the event space to ensure cleanliness and organization.

Support Event Staff: 

Assist the event team with any other tasks as needed (e.g., coordinating speakers, distributing materials).

Event Teardown: 

Assist with the breakdown of event spaces and equipment.

Help in packing and organizing materials after the event concludes.

Skills & Qualifications:

Positive attitude and strong communication skills.

Ability to work in a team and take direction.

Punctual and reliable.

Flexible and adaptable to changes or last-minute requests.

Previous experience with events (preferred but not required).

Benefits for Volunteers:

Gain experience in event coordination and hospitality.

Free event entry and access to specific event activities.

Certificate of appreciation or volunteer hours (if applicable).

Networking opportunities with professionals and participants.

Training and development 

Benefits Package

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Do you want to be part of an innovative, passionate and dedicated team? Help us in our mission to save lives at Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. Join our friendly retail team at our new Canvey Island shop.

Why we need you: We are looking for volunteers to help Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) by assisting in our new outlet . The role will support the Shop Manager and Assistant Shop Manager to ensure the smooth running of the shop.

What will you be doing?

·    Assisting with the donations of stock, by sorting and steaming and preparing for shop floor

·    Maintaining good stock levels and helping with stock rotation

·    Manning the till, including taking card payments and Gift Aid sign-up

·    Greeting customers in a friendly and approachable manner

·    Helping with visual merchandising  plus other tasks when needed 

You will have fun, while sharing your experience or learning new skills. We pay expenses and offer uniform, newsletters and dedicated events to our wonderful volunteers - be part of something special. 

Job Title: Bid Writer Assistant                                                                         

Reports To: Department Manager 

Location: Remote

Employment Type: Volunteer (12 hours/week for 6 months)

About the Project – “Solta o Jogo”
“Solta o Jogo” is a vibrant cultural competition and festival celebrating Brazilian heritage through Capoeira, music, dance, acrobatics, and a Brazilian arts & crafts fair. Hosted at Kingston University Townhouse, the event invites the community to participate in free performances, workshops, and exhibitions promoting cross-cultural understanding.

As part of this initiative, we are seeking a Bid Writer to support Quilombo UK in securing vital funding and resources to further our mission. This remote volunteer role is ideal for someone who is passionate about community impact, writing, and making a meaningful difference in the Third Sector. You'll work with a supportive team, gain hands-on experience in funding applications, and help shape the sustainability of impactful community programmes.

Position Overview:
The Bid Writer Assistant plays a key role in researching, drafting, and editing compelling proposals and funding applications for various projects run by Quilombo UK. The role involves close collaboration with department leads, collecting relevant data, and ensuring submissions align with organisational goals and funder expectations. It offers the flexibility to work independently, with the support of experienced professionals and tailored training where required.

Key Responsibilities:

Proposal & Bid Development:

• Research, draft, and edit funding proposals tailored to specific grants, donors, and partners.

• Review and refine existing proposals to ensure clarity, compliance, and impact.

• Collaborate with internal teams to gather relevant content, project insights, and financial information for bids.

• Develop supporting documents and presentations to accompany applications.

Strategic Input & Collaboration:

• Contribute to the bid strategy, suggesting creative and relevant ideas aligned with organisational goals.

• Maintain and manage a structured “bid plan” with timelines, approval processes, and submission deadlines.

• Liaise with HR, Finance, Marketing, and Project teams to align bid content with current projects and strategic direction.

Reporting & Organisation:

• Ensure accurate tracking and reporting of bid statuses.

• Organise bid-related documentation, supporting strong internal knowledge management.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in English, Communications, Business, or related fields.

Experience:

• Prior experience writing funding proposals or grant applications.

• Familiarity with fundraising, community initiatives, or nonprofit funding is desirable.

Skills:

• Strong written communication and persuasive writing skills.

• High attention to detail, organisation, and ability to meet tight deadlines.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word; Excel knowledge is a plus.

• Confidence in researching, planning, and collaborating across teams.

• Ability to work independently and maintain professionalism and confidentiality.

Benefits:

• Gain real-world experience in nonprofit fundraising and proposal writing.

• Work with a collaborative and values-driven team.

• Receive feedback and development opportunities in bid strategy and funding.

• Build a strong portfolio of written proposals and funding successes.

• Flexible working hours with full remote access.

• Reimbursement of travel expenses if attending occasional in-person meetings.

Equality Statement

Quilombo UK is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. We promote equal opportunities in line with the Equality Act 2010. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated, and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

About Us

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil CIC is a grassroots community interest company committed to fighting Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) across all UK communities.
We work to protect, heal, and empower survivors, amplify their voices, and educate the public through media, outreach, and education.

Our CIC is a movement, not just an organisation — everything we do is built from the ground up by people with heart, courage, and vision. We believe in truth, love as law, and community unity.

This is a grassroots, volunteer-driven structure, so this role will suit someone who values purpose, legacy, and growth over titles or pay at this stage.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Voluntary Assistant to the Executive Assistant, who will directly support the Executive Assistant to the Founder in the day-to-day coordination, administration, and communications of the CIC.

You will play a vital role in helping the team stay organised, efficient, and connected as we expand our operations, events, and fundraising programmes.

This is an unpaid voluntary position for someone passionate about helping build a movement that fights CSA and supports survivors across the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Assistant in managing schedules, meetings, and communications.

• Assist with preparing reports, tracking project tasks, and ensuring follow-ups through Asana.

• Help organise and document team meetings, training sessions, and fundraising events.

• Communicate with internal departments, volunteers, and external partners in a professional and sensitive manner.

• Assist with digital organisation — filing, cloud storage management, and shared document control.

• Help prepare correspondence, press materials, or short summaries for the Founder or senior team.

• Occasionally attend virtual or in-person meetings to take notes and ensure next steps are actioned.

• Maintain confidentiality and sensitivity when handling information related to CSA, survivors, and internal operations.

Ideal Candidate

• Passionate about fighting against CSA and supporting survivors.

• Organised, proactive, and eager to learn about how community organisations operate.

• Tech-savvy and comfortable with tools like Asana, Microsoft Office, and Google Drive.

• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).

• Professional, empathetic, and committed to the CIC’s values of truth, love, and collective healing.

• Able to take initiative and work independently or within a small, close-knit team.

What You Will Gain

• Direct mentorship from the Executive Assistant and leadership team.

• Experience working closely with the Founder and understanding the inner workings of a fast-growing grassroots organisation.

• Opportunities to develop leadership, communication, and project management skills.

• The chance to make a real difference in the fight against CSA and contribute to something historic.

• Full training, mentoring, and ongoing personal development provided.

• Travel and food expenses covered for any in-person activities.

The possibility of transitioning into a paid role as the organisation grows.

We support a lovely gentleman living in Wokingham who would like a volunteer to visit him for a relaxed check in. He enjoys watching the telly, looking at pictures, eating chocolate (of course!) and perhaps colouring or painting from time to time. He is deaf and non-verbal, so a calm, friendly and kind approach is key. If you’re someone who values quiet connection and meaningful moments, we’d love to hear from you.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year and, in many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

This is a Check in visit role, meaning that your visits are likely to be short - on average 30 minutes or less. Some of the people we visit may be unable to communicate with words. Sometimes the person might choose not to meet with their visitor. Your visit is however very important, and these are some of the things you could be doing on a visit: • Checking in on their well-being and speak to support staff to get an update on how the person is doing • You might be able to bring a treat that the person enjoys, like chocolates or fruit. • Some people we support enjoy sensory experiences so items that will stimulate their senses can also help you create a sense of connection with the person you visit. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions.

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

We are looking for new volunteers to join the Meet Me team to support Meet Me at the Albany in person and remote activities.

What is Meet Me at the Albany?

In 2013 Entelechy Arts and the Albany, in partnership with Lewisham Council, established Meet Me at the Albany – an arts and social club for over 65s. Meet Me… is led by a vibrant and diverse community of previously isolated older people, who come together weekly to run a cross-art form social and creative programme to make friends, be creative, advocate for themselves, and contribute to the vibrant cultural life of Lewisham.

On Tuesdays we get together at the Albany theatre in Deptford, and get involved with everything from singing to painting, from crafting to gardening. During the COVID pandemic we took our groups onto the telephone, and seeing the massive benefits these groups brought we have continued with our Meet Me on the Telephone programme. Find more detailed information further down this page!

Who we are looking for?

Our volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of our weekly and monthly sessions. These roles are perfect for people who enjoy meeting new people, engaging in conversations, and trying new things. They’re also ideal for those who like to listen and provide support based on individual needs and interests.

Skills and experience:

Personable and Friendly: We need volunteers who are approachable and easy to talk to.

Strong Listening Skills: Essential for connecting with our members and ensuring their safety.

Experience with Older Adults: While prior experience working with older people or supporting their creativity is beneficial, it’s not required—just an interest in doing so.

Adaptable and Flexible: Activities may change, so volunteers should be open to adjusting their approach as needed.

Creative Sharing (Optional): Some volunteers enjoy sharing their creativity with our members, but this is not a requirement.

We’re also looking for volunteers who are interested in helping out with marketing and social media, so if that sounds like your cup of tea, get in touch! It would be great if you also have experience of working with people living with dementia.

What’s next?

Get in touch for an initial chat. We will then invite you to complete a registration form and book you on to our next available training session. Training will cover safeguarding, setting boundaries and explore the programme. It is a chance to work through possible scenarios and ensure you feel confident to join us for one of the in person or over the phone sessions.

About the Role 

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. We aim to increase inclusion and representation for disabled families across society. We have several different services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails and more. 

As Buttons & Bubbles continues to grow, we are hoping to put together a team of assistants who will be responsible for attending in-person fundraising opportunities. Volunteers will help with small tasks at the events we attend and organise. This may include helping children take part in our activities, setting up and packing away equipment, and engaging with families and members of the public. 

Who Are We Looking For? 

• Someone who is passionate about our mission of inclusion, representation, and belonging. 

• No prior experience is necessary, but an enthusiasm for creating events and supporting fundraising efforts is essential. 

• You should be happy working as part of a team while also being confident in taking on tasks independently. 

• Be able to commute to Surrey and Berkshire for our events. 

What Do We Expect? 

• Must be willing to undertake our training programme, which will be completed virtually at a time that suits you. 

• Have a DBS check (preferably be on the update service) or be willing to complete one with us. 

• Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it, please discuss it with us, we’re happy to make small changes where appropriate.) 

• Have a positive attitude toward disability and illness. We’re always happy to answer questions about this. 

What Can You Expect? 

• A kind, caring, and nurturing company that values its people, staff, and volunteers. Our aim is to keep your wellbeing at the centre of our work. 

• A community group that does not currently operate a rota system of any kind. Therefore, you don’t have to commit your time regularly only when it suits you. 

• A positive and proactive approach to disability and illness. Any and all accommodations you require will be made. If you’d like to discuss something privately, please email us to arrange a confidential chat. 

Benefits of Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C 

• Make a difference in your community. 

• Have a positive impact on people’s lives. 

• Develop your current skills and gain new ones. 

• Demonstrate your commitment and reliability to future employers. 

• Show your ability to balance and manage your time effectively. 

• Build your confidence. 

• Explore new areas of interest by taking on additional tasks if you wish. 

Volunteer Role: Trusts and Foundations

We were set up to transform the former Edward Hain hospital, in St Ives, Cornwall, into a community centre for health and wellbeing. The hospital was founded in 1920, with funds from the Cornish Hain Steamship Company. When it closed n 2021, our community, led by the hospital’s League of Friends, came together to save the building for the town. Now it brings together much needed health and wellbeing services, along with social, community and welfare support, all under one roof.

About the role

We are looking for volunteers to help us raise funds from Trusts and Foundations. Grants, such the one we secured from National Lottery, already help keep us open all year. Although previous experience in grant writing would be welcomed, it is absolutely not required. More important are your enthusiasm and desire to help local people. ideally, you will be able to volunteer at least one or two days a month on a regular basis and preferably have access to a computer.

What’s involved?

· Drafting and submitting funding applications with help and support from our team.

· Working with other volunteers and staff to identify new funding opportunities.

· Researching grant-making bodies, trusts, and foundations that can fund the Centre.

The role will suit you if you

· Are comfortable with a computer.

· Have good written communication skills.

· Want to help local residents thrive.

· Can pay attention to detail and follow funder guidelines.

We will support you with

· An induction to volunteering for Edward Hain

· Training and briefings on how trusts and foundations fundraising.

· Coaching on how to draft and submit applications, supported with tools and templates.

• Occasional meetings at the Centre with other volunteers and staff.

We are looking for up to five regular volunteers. There is also an opportunity for significant coaching and development for those interested in pursuing jobs in this field in the longer term and wanting to use this role to develop the necessary skills. For more information contact:

Claire Jefferies Community Hub Officer