Wellbeing programme volunteer volunteer roles in bristol

Al Naasih is a 1‑to‑1 mentoring programme established by Hidayah in March 2020. It seeks to support queer Muslims struggling to reconcile their faith and identity. Mentors are trained in relevant skills (emotional intelligence, active listening, managing relationships, etc.) and paired with mentees to help them achieve personal goals. Within this role you will:

· Provide empathetic, non-judgemental support for mentees working through challenges related to faith, identity and wellbeing

· Help mentees set and achieve personal goals

· Act as a positive role model and safe space

· Assist mentees in exploring reconciling their faith with their LGBTQ+ identity, supporting spiritual, emotional, and practical wellbeing

Please this role is UK based and online/virtual.

What are the key responsibilities of this role?

This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:

· Build a trusting and respectful relationship with mentee

· Be in regular contact: at least once per month, according to what works best)

· Help mentees identify goals, hurdles, and strategies to work towards those goals

· Listen actively and empathetically; offer guidance rather than prescribing solutions

· Maintain confidentiality, boundaries, and ethical conduct

· Attend required training sessions (1‑on‑1) to develop mentoring skills (emotional intelligence, active listening, relationship management, etc.)

· Reflect on own practice; be open to feedback and possibly supervision / check‑ins

What do we expect from an Al Naasih Mentor?

Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:

Essential:

· Must be a queer Muslim

· Strong empathy, patience, and trustworthiness

· Comfortable discussing issues around faith and sexuality / identity

· Good communication skills; active listening; emotional intelligence

· Ability to set and maintain healthy boundaries

· Reliability and consistency (making time for regular sessions)

· Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding mentee’s personal information

·Ability to recognise limits of the mentoring role (e.g. not a therapist / counsellor) and refer on where needed

· Able to respect the mentee’s autonomy and pace

Desirable:

· Prior experience of mentoring, coaching, or peer‑support work

· Some understanding of LGBTQ+ issues within Muslim communities

This role will report to the Al Naasih Programme Coordinator or designated lead.

 

How much commitment is required?

This is a voluntary role with flexible hours subject to the agreement between you and your mentee. However, the following are vital to the success of this role:

· Minimum once per month meetings (virtual) with mentee

· Time needed to prepare, reflect, and possibly attend training or support / supervision meetings

· Duration per mentee: to be mutually agreed, depending on goals and needs

· Up to three mentees once comfortable with the role

Could you be one of our new trustees?

We currently have space on our Board for up to eight new Trustees who want to work with us to help improve university communities so that every student gets the mental health support they need to reach their goals.

At Student Minds, we’re working to improve university communities so that no student is held back by their mental health. So it should come as no surprise that we are keen to reflect the communities we serve, maintain a diverse board and ensure student voices are represented. This is key to our mission and our continued impact. 

You may be thinking that you don't have the experience because you haven't been a trustee before, or because charity governance isn't your field. Think again!

Here's what you DO NEED need: 

• Commitment to our vision - a world where no student is held back by their mental health

• Experience in 1 or 2 of the following areas: 

  • Current higher education students

  • Professional higher education sector expertise

  • Legal expertise 

  • Fundraising and income generation expertise

  • Equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, intersectionality and anti racism expertise

  • AI and technology expertise 

  • Campaigning, advocacy, community organising and/or public affairs expertise 

  • Marketing and brand awareness expertise 

  • People and culture, HR, organisational development or leadership development expertise 

And what you DON'T need:

• Previous experience of trusteeship

• Experience in charity law or working with a charity

Both experienced and aspiring trustees have much to bring to our table: we are looking for fresh perspectives and seasoned knowledge alike.

Key responsibilities

Student Minds Trustees are expected to commit to the following: 

• Preparation and attendance at four board meetings a year. Board meetings are held online and take place on weekdays from 5 - 7.30 pm. 

• Preparation and attendance at two board away days each year, usually from 12.30 - 5 pm. Board away days are in person and usually take place in Leeds. Travel expenses can be claimed.

• Ad-hoc meetings and conversations with the senior management team as required. This usually constitutes approximately a further five working days a year.

If appointed, you will receive the training and onboarding you need to be a confident, contributing member of the board. We are also able to provide you with a board buddy to support you in your first few months. 

So, if you want to help shape the future of student mental health, download our recruitment pack to find out more!

How to apply?

1. For more information about the role responsibilities please follow the link

2. Download and complete our application form, which is available on the link

3. Complete the Equality Monitoring Form. 

Application process

• Application closing deadline: Monday the 5th January at 11.59 pm - make sure you send your completed application form by this date

• Interviews: 29th or 30th January (general Trustees) or 5th February (Student Trustees) with a Trustee and CEO

• Appointment: subject to approval by the Student Minds Board. 

Head of Volunteer Programme & Culture (Remote, UK)

MINDSET Charity: Empowering Men, Building Community

MINDSET Charity is a new, ambitious UK-based organisation dedicated to supporting men on their mental wellbeing and self-improvement journey. We will provide activities, events, and projects that bring men together, spread joy, build community spirit, and offer a non-judgemental space to learn, grow, and talk.

We are seeking a visionary, experienced, and passionate volunteer leader to design, build, and run the engine of our organisation: our remote volunteering programme.

The Opportunity: Build the Foundation

This is a high-impact, strategic volunteer role for someone who wants to leave a lasting legacy. You won't just be managing volunteers; you will be defining the culture, systems, and success model for all of our remote teams across the UK.

We are looking for someone who can step in and immediately begin structuring a world-class remote volunteering programme from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities (What You Will Build & Lead)

1. Programme Strategy & Design:

• System Development: Design and implement all necessary digital systems, databases, and processes for seamless remote volunteer management (e.g., application tracking, hour logging, communication hubs).

• Policy & Procedure: Create a robust suite of volunteer policies, including the Volunteer Handbook, Safeguarding Protocols, Confidentiality Agreements, and Code of Conduct.

• Training Framework: Develop comprehensive role-specific training modules to ensure every volunteer has the skills and knowledge to be successful and feel confident in their role (especially around sensitive topics and signposting).

2. Recruitment & Management:

• Full Cycle Leadership: Lead the entire volunteer lifecycle, from crafting compelling recruitment adverts and screening applications to conducting onboarding sessions and managing off-boarding.

• Motivation & Retention: Develop and implement strategies for continuous volunteer engagement, recognition, and motivation, ensuring high retention rates.

• Performance & Support: Create a supportive framework for check-ins, performance monitoring, and providing necessary support to remote volunteers.

3. Culture & Community:

• Family Culture: Act as the chief advocate for a positive, exciting, and family-like team culture where every remote volunteer feels connected, valued, and non-judgementally supported.

• Communication: Oversee all internal volunteer communications and lead regular virtual team meetings and social events to foster community spirit.

Your Skills & Experience

• Proven Experience: Demonstrated experience (volunteer or professional) in designing, implementing, and managing a successful volunteer programme, HR function, or large remote team.

• Strategic Thinker: Ability to translate the charity’s mission into actionable, scalable, and compliant people processes.

• Policy Acumen: Solid understanding of best practice in compliance, safeguarding, and people management (experience with UK charity regulations is a major plus).

• Tech Savvy: Highly proficient with digital tools essential for remote work (e.g., CRM/databases, Slack/Discord, Google Workspace/Microsoft 365).

• Leadership & Empathy: Exceptional leadership skills with a deep understanding of motivation, emotional intelligence, and non-judgemental communication, aligning with MINDSET's values.

• Time Commitment: Ideally able to commit a set number of hours per week (to be discussed) to drive this programme forward during its critical initial phase.

Why Join MINDSET Charity?

• Maximum Impact: This is your chance to build something from scratch and directly impact how thousands of men across the UK receive support.

• Autonomy: We offer significant autonomy to design the programme you know will work best.

• Purpose: Be part of a passionate, mission-driven team dedicated to tackling a vital social issue: men’s mental wellbeing.

If you are ready to be the architect of our people power and build an unforgettable culture, we want to hear from you.

To Apply: Please send your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your relevant experience and why the mission of MINDSET Charity resonates with you.

MINDSET Charity

Supporting Men Through Mental Wellbeing and Personal Growth

Could you be our new Chair?  

Our fantastic Chair’s tenure will be coming to an end in 2026, so we are looking to appoint her successor to help Student Minds improve university communities so that every student gets the mental health support they need to reach their goals.

At Student Minds, we’re working to improve university communities so that no student is held back by their mental health. So it should come as no surprise that we are keen to reflect the communities we serve, maintain a diverse board and ensure student voices are represented. This is key to our mission and our continued impact. 

We are open-minded about the professional background of this individual and are mostly looking for someone with experience of leading effective, inclusive teams, of chairing complex organisations or meetings, and in building influential cross-sector partnerships.

Key responsibilities

Student Minds Chair is expected to commit to the following: 

• Preparation and attendance at four board meetings a year. Board meetings are held online and take place on weekdays from 5 - 7.30 pm. 

• Preparation and attendance at two in-person board away days each year, usually from 12.30 - 5 pm. These usually take place in Leeds and include a lunchtime or evening social.

• Monthly supervision calls with the Chief Executive

• Annual in-person appraisal of the Chief Executive 

• Support with board appraisals and recruitment 

• Ad-hoc meetings and conversations with the senior leadership team as required. This usually constitutes approximately a further five working days a year.

• Attendance at relevant task-group meetings and/or committees.

So, if you want to help shape the future of student mental health, download our recruitment pack to find out more!

How to apply?

1. For more information about the role responsibilities please download our recruitment pack that is linked

2. Download and complete our application form which is available via the link

3. Complete the Equality Monitoring Form. 

Application process

• Application closing deadline: Monday the 5th January at 11.59 pm - make sure you send your completed application form by this date

• Interviews: 27th January, with our Chair, Trustee and CEO

• Appointment: subject to approval by the Student Minds Board

We're building a platform to catch burnout before it happens. Need someone with HR connections who can talk to people and open doors.

The Problem

People are burning out at work. By the time managers notice, it's too late. We're building something to change that.

What We're Building

A platform that spots early warning signs of burnout and helps managers intervene before people break. Think predictive tech + psychology + practical support.

What We Actually Need You To Do

We need someone who can:

• Talk to HR people and managers about their burnout challenges (15-20 interviews over 2-3 weeks)
• Find organizations that might want to test this with their teams
• Help us understand what would actually work vs. what sounds good on paper

That's it. No corporate nonsense. Just real conversations with real people about a real problem.

Your Actual Tasks

Weeks 1-2: Find people to interview

• Use your network to find 15-20 HR folks, managers, and employees
• Schedule 30-60 min chats (we'll give you the questions)
• Could be over coffee, Zoom, phone - whatever works

Weeks 3-4: Do the interviews

• Have real conversations about burnout
• Document what matters (not what sounds nice)
• Work with our psychologists to make sense of it

Weeks 5-6: Connect us with organizations

• Find 5-10 companies that might test this
• Make intros to the right people
• Help us understand who'd actually pay for this

Time commitment: 2-3 hours a day. Work when you want. No meetings about meetings.

Why Bother?

Honestly:

• You'll help build something launching in 8 weeks (not years)
• You get to shape the product from scratch
• You'll work with psychologists and tech people who actually know what they're doing
• Good for your CV if you want to move into product/research/biz dev
• If you're brilliant, we might offer equity or a paid role later
• Work from home, flexible hours, no micromanaging

Also: burnout is real. If you've seen it or felt it, you know why this matters.

Who We're Looking For

Someone who:

• Knows HR people or managers (and they'd actually take your call)
• Can have a proper conversation without reading a script
• Gets why burnout matters (maybe you've been there)
• Doesn't need babysitting - you see what needs doing and do it
• Can move fast - we're launching in 8 weeks

Experience we care about:

• You've worked in HR, management, or people stuff (3+ years)
• You've done interviews or research before (or you're confident you can)
• You have connections we don't (that's the whole point)

Don't have all of this? Apply anyway if you care about the problem and can help.

What You Actually Get

• Real product experience (not busy work)
• Portfolio piece you can show people
• References from our team
• Connections with psychologists and tech people
• Maybe equity if you're exceptional
• The satisfaction of helping prevent burnout (sounds cheesy but it's true)

The Team

• Chief Behavioral Psychologist
• Occupational Psychologist
• AI/ML person
• CTO
• UX Designer

Small team. No corporate BS. Building something that matters.

Timeline

Start: Now (November) Busiest: First 2 weeks (3 hrs/day finding and scheduling people) After that: 2 hrs/day for 4-6 weeks End: Mid-December

Work whenever suits you. We care about results, not when you're online.

Success = 

• 15-20 good interviews done
• 5-10 companies interested in testing this
• Insights that help us build the right thing
• Not wasting each other's time

Why Not Paid?

We're pre-revenue. Every penny goes into building this. But if you're good, equity or paid work could come later. And the experience is worth more than a few hundred quid anyway.

What We Promise

We won't:

• Have pointless meetings
• Micromanage you
• Waste your time
• Give you vague objectives

We will:

• Be clear about what needs doing
• Support you when needed, leave you alone when not
• Give you proper credit
• Write you good references

Why This Matters

Burnout is expensive (£322 billion to the economy) and miserable (for the people going through it). Most companies wait until people break, then offer an EAP number.

We're trying to catch it earlier. Your conversations will tell us if this is actually useful or just another wellness gimmick.

To Apply

Just tell us:

1. Why you care about this (2-3 sentences)
2. Who you could realistically interview (be specific)
3. Any organizations you could connect us with
4. Can you start now and commit 2-3 hrs/day for 6-8 weeks?

Attach your CV.

Don't overthink it. If this sounds interesting, apply.

Questions? Email us - we respond fast.

P.S. If you're not sure you're "qualified enough" - apply anyway. We need diverse perspectives, not clones.

Volunteer Role: Graphic Designer

SUNSHINE Charity (London)

We created SUNSHINE to tackle the loneliness problem head-on. Our mission is simple: to bring people together, spread joy and community spirit, and deliver services and support to those living with loneliness. We do this by:

• Fostering Connections: We create safe and welcoming spaces where people can meet, chat, and form genuine friendships.

• Enhancing Wellbeing: Our activities are designed to be fun and engaging, lifting spirits and promoting a positive outlook.

• Transforming Lives: Every interaction, no matter how small, has the power to make a huge difference in someone's day, and ultimately, their life.

Our Vision

A world where everyone feels connected, valued, and a part of a vibrant, compassionate community.

Our Values

• Joy: We believe in the power of happiness to change lives.

• Connection: We create bridges, not walls.

• Community: We are a family, united by a shared mission.

• Empathy: We listen, we understand, and we care.

Commitment: Approximately 2 hours per week (project-based, flexible scheduling to meet deadlines).

Location: Remote/home-based.

Reports To: Charity Director/Programme Manager (for project briefing and sign-off).

Role Purpose

To provide high-quality, professional design support across all of SUNSHINE's channels. The Graphic Designer ensures that the charity's brand identity (visuals, tone, and warmth) is consistently applied to all digital and print materials, helping us to recruit volunteers, attract partners, and engage participants.

Key Responsibilities

1. Design and Production:

• Conceptualise, design, and produce diverse digital and print assets, including but not limited to:

  • Recruitment Materials: Volunteer role advertisements, flyers, and information leaflets.

  • Programme Assets: Posters, booklets, and promotional material for the Digital Inclusion and Wellbeing Programmes.

  • Events & Outreach: Roller banners, branded tablecloth designs, and social media graphics for events (e.g., Coffee Mornings).

  • Internal Templates: Creating standardised templates (e.g., presentation slides, letterheads) to ensure brand consistency across all teams.

• Support Brand Development: Ensure all creative work is aligned with SUNSHINE's established style guide, fonts, colour palette, and the core feeling of Joy, Warmth, and Community Spirit.

2. Collaboration and Delivery:

• Work closely with the Programme Manager and Charity Director to understand the specific communication goals and target audiences for each project.

• Deliver assets in the correct formats (e.g., print-ready PDF, web-optimised JPEG/PNG) and on agreed-upon deadlines.

• Manage and maintain a digital library of all completed design assets and source files.

3. Adaptability and Innovation:

• Be prepared to adapt designs for various mediums and platforms (e.g., resizing a poster for an Instagram Story).

• Proactively suggest innovative visual ideas to improve SUNSHINE's communications and cut through the noise in the crowded London non-profit landscape.

Skills and Experience Required

• Essential:

  • Proficiency in Design Software: Expert-level command of industry-standard design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite: InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, or equivalent platforms like Canva Pro).

  • Portfolio: A strong portfolio demonstrating versatility in both print and digital media design.

  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous eye for typography, layout, colour, and pre-press checks.

  • Remote Collaboration: Ability to work independently, manage a project queue, and communicate progress effectively using digital tools.

• Desirable:

  • Experience working with a non-profit, charity, or community organisation.

  • Understanding of accessibility standards in design.

Next Steps to Apply

If you are a talented designer passionate about using your skills to combat loneliness and bring "sunshine" to the community, please submit your CV and a link to your online design portfolio. Please also include a brief note on how you would visually represent the concept of 'Warmth' in a logo or poster design.

SUNSHINE

Loneliness Charity in London

CEO (Chief Executive Officer) - (Volunteer Role)

MINDSET Charity: Architecting a National Movement for Men’s Wellbeing

MINDSET Charity is a new, ambitious UK-based organisation dedicated to supporting men on their mental wellbeing and self-improvement journey. We aim to become a leading, beloved, and recognised charity that provides activities, events, and projects that bring men together, spread joy, build community spirit, and offer a non-judgemental space to learn, grow, and talk.

We are seeking a visionary, experienced, and highly committed CEO to lead the organisation from its current inception phase to full registration, national recognition, and operational success.

The Opportunity: Lead, Register, and Scale

This is the most critical and high-impact volunteer role within MINDSET Charity. You will be responsible for establishing the entire infrastructure, strategy, and public profile of the charity, working very closely with the Founder and the Board of Trustees. We are looking for a pioneering leader ready to commit significant time and expertise to create a sustainable organisation that truly changes lives.

Key Responsibilities (What You Will Achieve & Lead)

1. Registration & Governance (Immediate Focus):

• Charity Commission Registration: Lead the entire process of registering MINDSET Charity as a legally compliant, fully registered charity with the Charity Commission for England and Wales (and/or Scotland), the the help and support of the Board of Trustees.

• Governance Establishment: Work with the founding team/trustees to establish the formal governance structure, Articles of Association, and all necessary legal documentation to ensure robust compliance and ethical operations.

• Policy Foundation: Oversee the creation of all essential foundational policies, including financial controls, safeguarding, data protection (GDPR), and risk management.

2. Strategic Vision & Growth:

• Strategic Roadmap: Develop and execute the inaugural 3-5 year strategic plan, defining measurable objectives for growth, impact, and geographical reach across the UK.

• Financial Sustainability: Design and launch initial fundraising strategies, grant applications, and corporate partnership frameworks to secure the long-term financial health of the charity.

• Brand & Profile: Act as the primary external representative and spokesperson for MINDSET Charity, building relationships with media, partners, stakeholders, and the community to establish us as a beloved and recognised name in men's mental health.

3. Operational Leadership & People:

• Programme Oversight: Steer the development and successful launch of our core activities, events, and community projects.

• Team Building: Strategically recruit, lead, and motivate the founding team (including the Head of Volunteer Programme), ensuring a positive, dynamic, and non-judgemental "family" culture permeates the entire organisation.

• Impact Measurement: Establish clear metrics and reporting processes to measure and demonstrate the charity's positive impact on men's mental wellbeing and community spirit.

Your Essential Skills & Experience

• Executive Leadership: Proven experience (volunteer or professional) in a senior leadership, CEO, or Executive Director role, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector.

• Charity Establishment: Direct experience with, or deep knowledge of, the process of registering a charity with the UK Charity Commission and establishing robust governance.

• Strategic Vision: Ability to conceptualise a clear, achievable path to national success and build a compelling case for support (fundraising).

• Compliance & Governance Acumen: Excellent understanding of UK charity law, safeguarding, financial oversight, and governance best practices.

• Communication & Advocacy: Exceptional public speaking, written, and stakeholder management skills, capable of inspiring trust and representing the charity's mission with authority and empathy.

• Commitment: The founding CEO role requires a significant, regular, and sustained time commitment (to be discussed) to drive this critical setup phase.

Why Lead MINDSET Charity?

• Defining Legacy: This is a rare opportunity to be the founding executive who designs and steers a vital national charity from day one.

• Maximum Impact: Directly address the pressing issue of men’s mental wellbeing and create a recognised national asset that offers hope and community.

• Autonomy: Work closely with the trustees/founders to implement your vision for success and cultural excellence.

If you are ready to be the architect of our future and lead the movement for men's wellbeing, we want to hear from you.

To Apply: Please submit your CV and a comprehensive covering letter detailing your relevant experience, your approach to charity establishment, and why the mission of MINDSET Charity resonates with you.

MINDSET Charity

Supporting Men Through Their Mental Wellbeing and Self Improvement Journey

We’re looking for creative and organised people who enjoy visual design and want to use their skills to support meaningful community projects.

As a Creative Design Volunteer, you’ll help create eye-catching digital and print materials that promote our programmes, campaigns and events. From social media graphics to posters and newsletters, your designs will help us communicate clearly and consistently with our audiences.

This is a flexible opportunity for anyone who enjoys bringing ideas to life through design and wants to use their creativity for social good.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Designing digital and print materials such as posters, flyers and social media graphics
• Creating templates and layouts for newsletters, presentations or reports
• Adapting designs to meet accessibility and brand guidelines
• Supporting the visual design of campaigns and community events
• Helping organise and manage design files and templates
• Contributing creative ideas for visual storytelling and community engagement

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Creative eye for layout and design
• Confidence using design tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud or similar
• Attention to detail and ability to follow brand guidelines
• Good communication and collaboration skills
• Reliable, organised and able to manage time effectively
• Interest in community, social impact or charity communications

What You’ll Gain

• Experience designing materials for community campaigns and events
• Opportunities to develop and showcase creative skills
• A chance to build a portfolio of design work for a good cause
• The satisfaction of helping a charity communicate its impact

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

We’re looking for reliable, tech-savvy people who’d like to use their digital or IT skills to help improve our online systems and website.

As a Web and IT Support Volunteer, you’ll help us keep our website up to date, support digital record-keeping and assist with maintaining efficient systems that help us work effectively. You’ll play an important role in helping us stay connected, accessible and organised across our programmes.

This role is ideal for someone with an interest in IT, websites or digital operations who wants to make a practical contribution to community-focused work.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Updating website pages with new events, news and programme information
• Supporting the layout and accessibility of website content
• Uploading photos, articles or updates to digital platforms
• Helping staff and volunteers use digital tools
• Assisting with digital forms, data collection and record management
• Providing basic troubleshooting support or referring technical issues to the appropriate person
• Helping test and improve the digital tools and systems used by the team

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Confidence using websites, IT systems and digital tools
• Good understanding of basic data management and online platforms
• Problem-solving and attention to detail
• Clear communication and teamwork skills
• Reliable and organised approach to tasks
• Awareness of data protection and confidentiality principles

What You’ll Gain

• Experience supporting the digital operations of a community charity
• Opportunities to develop IT, web management and problem-solving skills
• Insight into digital tools used in the voluntary sector
• The satisfaction of helping improve online access and efficiency

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

We’re looking for detail-orientated, proactive people who’d like to use their research or writing skills to help strengthen our funding applications and impact reporting.

As a Research and Bid Support Volunteer, you’ll help identify funding opportunities, gather data and evidence, and support the preparation of grant proposals. You’ll also assist with compiling feedback and monitoring information that helps us demonstrate the difference our work makes.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys research, analysis and writing and wants to gain experience in how charities develop projects and secure funding.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Researching grant opportunities that align with our programmes and priorities
• Helping gather data, statistics and community evidence to support funding applications
• Reviewing funder guidelines and eligibility criteria
• Assisting with drafting or formatting sections of funding proposals
• Collecting quotes, case studies and outcomes to demonstrate impact
• Supporting report preparation and data organisation for monitoring and evaluation

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Strong written and research skills
• Attention to detail and ability to analyse information clearly
• Organised and methodical approach to work
• Confidence using digital tools and online databases
• Interest in community development, funding or project design
• Discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information

What You’ll Gain

• Experience contributing to real funding applications and impact reporting
• Insight into charity fundraising, project development and evaluation
• Opportunities to build research, analysis and writing skills
• The satisfaction of supporting projects that bring lasting community benefits

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

Chatterbox Befrienders offer one-to-one telephone support and will call a client once a week offering companionship and a listening ear for an individual who might otherwise go unheard. Chatterbox volunteers befriend a variety of people including carers, socially isolated individuals who are struggling with loneliness, people with ill health and those that 
have been bereaved. 

THIS ROLE COULD BE FOR YOU IF:

- Would like to make a real difference in someone’s life

- Want to challenge loneliness and can commit to a weekly phone call

- Are a good listener

- Are empathetic, patient and of a caring nature

- Have good verbal and inter-personal communication skills

- Recognise the importance of confidentiality and can uphold this in practice

- Are committed to inclusion and treating people with dignity and respect

REQUIREMENTS OF A BEFRIENDER INCLUDE:

- Calling your client once a week for a chat of up to 45 minutes; this is a 26 week initial commitment, at the end of which each client’s needs are reviewed

- Completing an online call log record promptly after each phone call

- Ensuring immediate contact with the Chatterbox Coordinators if you feel that the client might be a risk to themselves or others

- Liaising with the Chatterbox Coordinator on a regular basis regarding the service, as well as discussing personal learning and development needs

- Respecting service standards, appropriate boundaries and recognising the range of policies and procedures that impact on befriending vulnerable adults

BENEFITS OF THE ROLE MAY INCLUDE:

- Knowing you are making a difference to someone’s life

- Joining the Omega Team who are taking action against loneliness and isolation

- An opportunity to enhance your CV or learn new skills

- An opportunity to engage with your community

SUPPORT AND TRAINING PROVIDED:

- Omega Chatterbox induction program

- Safeguarding training

- Ongoing support from Chatterbox Coordinators for all questions, concerns, and support

- Out of pocket expenses are reimbursed and a mobile phone can be provided if appropriate

- Monthly Befriender group support meetings via the Zoom app

LOCATION OF THE ROLE:

- Home-based

WHEN ARE YOU NEEDED:

- Provided on enquiry

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this role. If you have a criminal record this does not automatically prevent you from being considered as an Omega Chatterbox Befriender. We will take into account the nature of the offence, when it happened and whether it is relevant to the voluntary role. If you are shortlisted, this will be discussed with you during the recruitment process.

Join our team of befrienders! You will support us to reach some of the most isolated adults in your community to reduce their feelings of loneliness, build friendships and provide support for mental wellbeing. You will support people to relight a spark to continue a hobby, interest or encourage them to explore and participate in new social activities.

You will support individuals to rebuild their lives beyond crisis.

Loneliness and isolation can affect anyone in life, whatever their age or family situation. Official data from the Office for National Statistics shows that rates of depression doubled during the COVID pandemic, and one of the major causes of depression is isolation.

Hestia has a variety of different services that support people across London and the South East. These services support people that are struggling with their mental health, are victims of Domestic Abuse or Modern Slavery, and more. Join our team of volunteers who play a vital role in what we do!

Face-to-face locations include Islington, Hounslow, Hillingdon, Berkshire, Lambeth, Kingston, Merton, Barbican, Slough, Reading and Croydon

What you will be doing

• Agree a mutual time and frequency to meet in the local community
• To develop and promote a positive relationship with your befriendee
• To encourage your befriendee to engage in social activities and support them in doing so whilst building their confidence
• To support your befriendee in developing their goals and social skills
• Encourage your befriendee to make links with community services, based on their identified goals

The skills you need

• Good listening and communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere which motivates and inspires others
• Willingness to engage in activities in the community
• Able to maintain strict confidentiality and follow professional boundaries

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Who are we?

We are Buttons & Bubbles CIC. We work with children, young people, families and other professionals associated and affected by illness and disability. We have several different services including inclusive characters, sensory workshops, resources, events, advocacy and more.

What are we looking for?

Do you enjoy art? Graphic design? Are you an amazing illustrator? Then we might just have a project for you. One of our aims is to have every type of disability in every culture, religion and ethnicity depicted through our characters. And yes, we know that’s going to mean a lot of hard work and a lot of characters! But NO we are not asking you to complete this entire project!

We’ve created 11 characters so far that depict a variety of conditions. We want to look at potentially re-developing these characters and starting work on some new ones!

What do we expect?

• Be willing to undertake our training programme which will be done virtually and at a time to suit you.

• Have an Enhanced DBS check (preferably be on the update system)

• Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it please do discuss it

  with us and we will be happy to have a conversation and make small changes if

  appropriate).

• A positive attitude to disability and illness. We are happy to answer questions on this.

  What can you expect?

  • A community group that does not currently operate a rota system of any kind. You don’t have to regularly commit your time.

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

• A very positive and proactive approach to disability and illness. Any and all accommodations will be made that you require. If there is anything you wish to discuss in private please email us and we will arrange a confidential chat.

Benefits to Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles CIC

• Gaining valuable experience and improving your confidence

• Allows you to explore potentially different areas of interest.

• Make a difference to community

• Develop your current skill set and gain new skills.

• Displays your level of commitment to future employers.

• Displays your ability to balance and schedule your time effectively when seeking future employment.

A bit about this role

We need Fundraising Volunteers to help in and around the Tenterden & District area. The postcode areas we are active in are TN23, TN24, TN25, TN26, TN27, TN28, TN29, & TN30.

We are a movement of people championing the welfare of cats. We lead society in a richer understanding of all cats and care for those that need our help. 

Our Volunteer led branches operate within local communities nationwide and rely on funds donated by generous members of the public to continue to help cats and kittens in need of new homes, supporting owners with neutering, managing trap, neuter and return programmes and educating people about cat welfare. 

Our fundraising volunteers are part of a passionate team that help raise funds to help cats. They help plan and deliver exciting and varied fundraising events, which can be anything from craft fairs, cake sales, sponsored abseils – and anything in between!

What can you expect to be doing?

• Helping organise fundraising events in your local area 
• Championing our cause and making a better life for cats
• Getting involved with new and exciting fundraising ideas 
• Engaging communities, spreading awareness and starting conversations
• Promoting National fundraising initiatives where appropriate

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 help raise funds that will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens in need. 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 communication skills
• Responsible to handle money
• Willingness to be part of a team
• Confidence in speaking to members of the public
• Knowledge of local community networks (would be an advantage)

Time expectation 

Our fundraising volunteers, on average, usually spend 2 to 3 hours per week in this role. You can offer your time flexibly, seasonally or remotely and it can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed and you can encourage others to join us too. 

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.