Youth volunteering programme volunteer roles in selly oak, west midlands

Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

We Are looking to recruit Youth Helpers to help with our youth groups within the Dudley Community Network at our three youth locations. We are looking for Youth Helpers at Dudley (Monday and Tuesday evening), Sedgley ( Thursday evening) and Brierley Hill ( Friday evening)

Pursuing the role:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -Monday 1st September 2025
• Selection and interview of candidates -Sunday 1st of June 2025
• interviews will take place at St John Ambulance Dudley. Vicar St, Dudley DY2 8RQ

Closing date for these opportunities is Saturday 31st May 2025

Position Overview:
The Programme Specialist is critical in supporting the delivery of a high-impact employability and skills development programme. Working under the guidance of the Programme Lead, this position focuses on coordinating projects, managing participant engagement, and ensuring the smooth execution of training initiatives, mentorship activities, and job placement efforts. The Programme Specialist directly empowers individuals to achieve workforce readiness and sustainable employment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Project Coordination:

   • Assist in managing day-to-day activities of the programme, including onboarding, skills assessments, and skills development of participants.

   • Track progress against programme milestones (e.g., participant enrollment and completion rates) and flag delays to the Programme Lead.

2. Participant Support:

   • Serve as a primary point of contact for participants, addressing inquiries and providing guidance on programme resources, training modules, and job search tools.

   • Maintain accurate participant records, including attendance, skill assessments, and post-program outcomes.

3. Stakeholder Engagement:

   • Support the Programme Lead in building relationships with internal stakeholders.

4. Data Management & Reporting:

   • Collect and analyse data on participant progress, employment outcomes, and programme effectiveness using CRM systems or databases.

   • Prepare regular reports for the Programme Lead to inform decision-making and demonstrate impact to funders/stakeholders.

5. Logistics & Compliance:

   • Manage programme materials, including training resources, digital platforms, and participant handbooks.

   • Ensure compliance with programme guidelines, confidentiality policies, and grant reporting requirements.

1. Continuous Improvement:

   • Gather feedback from participants and partners to identify opportunities to enhance programme delivery.

   • Support the implementation of new tools or processes to improve efficiency and participant satisfaction.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Education, Human Resources, or a related field.

• Experience:

  • 1–3 years in programme coordination, workforce development, adult education, or a similar role.

  • Experience working with diverse populations, including youth, underserved communities, or career changers.

• Skills:

  • Strong organisational and multitasking abilities, with attention to detail.

  • Proficiency in Google products (Forms, Sheets, Docs, Slides) and familiarity with CRM tools.

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for engaging participants and stakeholders.

  • Basic data analysis and reporting capabilities.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

Position Overview:
The Programme Lead oversees the strategic delivery of a multi-project programme focused on enhancing employability and skills development for target populations. This role ensures alignment with organisational and community goals, driving initiatives that reduce skills gaps, improve workforce readiness, and foster partnerships with employers and training providers. Reporting to the Programme Manager, the Programme Lead manages a team of project specialists and coordinators, ensuring seamless execution of programme activities and measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Programme Leadership:

   • Lead the end-to-end employability and skills development programme delivery, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.

   • Mentor and manage project specialists and coordinators, assigning tasks tied to programme milestones such as training workshops, employer partnerships, and participant assessments.

2. Stakeholder Collaboration:

   • Build and maintain relationships with employers, educational institutions, government agencies, and community organisations to align programme outcomes with labour market needs.

   • Act as the primary point of contact for external partners, ensuring their requirements (e.g., hiring criteria, certification standards) are integrated into programme design.

3. Programme Design & Delivery:

   • Oversee the development of training curricula, mentorship initiatives, and job placement strategies tailored to diverse participant groups (e.g., youth, career changers).

   • Monitor participant progress and employment outcomes, using data to refine programme effectiveness.

4. Risk & Compliance Management:

   • Identify barriers to participant success (e.g., accessibility, resource gaps) and escalate systemic challenges to the Programme Manager with actionable solutions.

1. Reporting & Communication:

   • Track and report on key metrics such as participant engagement, skill acquisition rates, and post-programme employment status.

   • Prepare updates for senior leadership and stakeholders to demonstrate programme impact.

2. Process Improvement:

   • Implement feedback loops with participants and partners to continuously enhance programme quality.

   • Promote best practices in adult education, vocational training, and equity-focused initiatives.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Human Resources, or a related field.

• Experience:

  • 3–5 years managing employability, workforce development, or adult education programmes.

  • Proven experience leading teams and collaborating with cross-sector stakeholders.

• Skills:

  • Strong understanding of labour market trends and barriers to employment.

  • Ability to design inclusive, participant-centric programmes.

  • Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, CRM systems) and project management software.

  • Exceptional communication skills for engaging diverse audiences.

• Certifications: Certifications in programme management (e.g., PgMP), career coaching, or adult education are advantageous.
  
   

  The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

  QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

As a Volunteer Education Mentor, you'll join a dynamic team to deliver 8 mentoring sessions over 8 weeks aimed at building group rapport and covering essential topics like communication, goal setting and problem solving. These sessions will be with a consistent group of young people, ensuring you can build meaningful connections and see their progress over time. 

You'll be supported throughout this process by a King's Trust Youth Development Lead, who will provide guidance and resources to help you succeed.

The sessions will typically last 1 hour and will take place face-to-face in a secondary school environment. The frequency and timing of these sessions will be determined by the school, and you will choose a school that fits your availability, as your consistent attendance is crucial. 

School locations and dates: 

• These sessions will take place around Birmingham from September to December 2025. Please complete the application and attend the interview for further information.

Areas of sessions:

• Walsall
• Little Bromwich
• Small Heath
• Holford

An educational background is not required, but a genuine interest in engaging with and developing the skills of young people is essential. Session content will be provided, and you will be expected to develop and review the plans each week. Key skills required include preparation, organisation and reliability. 

Full training will be provided to ensure you feel confident and prepared, please be expected to commit to 2 hours in person training, as well as some virtual training. 

Take a look at this video to see the impact this programme makes …https://youtube/dmf7fG1c69Y 

In return for your valuable time, you'll become part of a dedicated community of volunteers. You'll experience the satisfaction of directly impacting the success of young people, many of whom face significant barriers and challenges.Additionally, you'll enjoy personal development and the pleasure that comes from working for a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of children and young people. 

Join us at The King's Trust and make a lasting impact! 

Bright Futures UK are looking for warm, energetic, and experienced volunteer tutors to provide educational support remotely and a fun, safe space for young people living with serious illness.

Please note you must be 18+ and live in the UK for this opportunity.

Starting from as little as one hour per week, you will:

• Offer engaging and dynamic online tutoring sessions to support a young person.
• Help to combat social isolation through fun and engaging tutoring sessions.

You are the perfect fit if you have:

• Subject Knowledge: Strong understanding of subject concepts and theories.
• Teaching Skills: Ability to explain ideas in a clear and engaging way.
• Empathy and Patience: Kind and understanding nature, especially towards those facing health challenges.
• Consistent availability for the agreed-upon time commitment for a minimum of 14 weeks.

Your valuable time and experience will make a difference by:

• Academic Progress: Help young people stay on track with their studies despite their health challenges, ensuring they do not fall behind.
• Confidence Builder: Provide a stable and encouraging presence that helps build the students' confidence and resilience.
• Future Opportunities: Equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. 

In return, Bright Futures UK will support you by:

• Covering all expenses and materials used
• Providing DBS where needed
• Training you in safeguarding and other skill development opportunities
• Keeping in contact throughout your programme to ensure you feel comfortable and capable

If you are ready to make a difference in a young person's life and have the opportunity to tackle educational inequality, we would love to hear from you!

Youth Advantage UK is seeking a Volunteer Head of Policy to develop and lead its Long-Term Research & Policy Team in identifying and delivering on opportunities for the organisation to grow its impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for creating an ambitious yet achievable programme of policy work in line with the organisation’s strategic priorities. Working closely with the Heads of the Initial Research Team, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to build strong and effective relationships with external actors with the potential for evidence-based change. They will should have excellent writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

Responsibilities:

•    In line with the organisation’s strategic priorities, to lead the Policy Team in designing, developing and implementing impactful project objectives.
•    To take responsibility for key relationships with external stakeholders, ensuring the visibility, reach and impact of the organisation.
•    To work on an on-going basis with the other members of the organisation’s Senior Leadership Team in determining its areas of strategic priorities.
•    To monitor, analyse and respond to external trends which impact on the organisation’s strategic policies and focus.
•    To work with HR in creating a strong Policy Team composed of individuals with the appropriate skills and expertise. To ensure that these volunteers are appropriately supported and trained during their period of service.
•    To support and work with the Heads of the Initial Research Team in developing frameworks for initial research which enable effective and efficient research on the organisation’s areas of strategic priorities.
•    To work closely with the organisation’s Communications Team in developing and implementing effective strategies to raise the organisation’s profile and impact.
•    To create blogs and articles on policy related issues and to support with the development of academic articles and reports.
•    To support the Chief Executive Officer in presenting policy strategies to the organisation’s Trustees.
•    To train the other teams in the organisation in policy work, ensuring all members have the opportunity to learn more about how policy can be influenced and how they can contribute.
•    To find and distribute information on related topics which may be of interest to the other organisation members.

Requirements:

•    Experience in policy work, leading key campaigns or programmes.
•    High-level understanding of policy and practice, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities.
•    Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to applying research and development in public policy.
•    Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members.
•    Excellent writing and speaking skills.
•    IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
•    Ability to work well independently and in a team.
•    Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
•    Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

Benefits
•    Gain valuable experience in leading a policy team.
•    Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.
•    Flexible working hours.

CWV is seeking a Volunteer Bid Writer to help secure funding through grant applications and partnerships. Ideal for those with strong writing and research skills, it offers valuable experience and a chance to make a meaningful impact. 

What will you be doing?

Position Overview:

Children With Voices, a dynamic and community-driven charity committed to supporting vulnerable individuals and families, is seeking a motivated and skilled Volunteer Bid Writer. This role is instrumental in securing funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to ensure the continuous growth and success of the charity's initiatives.

Responsibilities:

1. Research and Identify Funding Opportunities:

- Conduct thorough research to identify potential funding sources, grants, and partnership opportunities aligned with  Children With Voices' mission and projects.

2. Proposal Development:

- Collaborate with the charity's leadership team to gather information on projects and programs requiring funding.

- Develop compelling and well-articulated grant proposals, ensuring alignment with donor guidelines and requirements.

- Craft persuasive narratives that effectively communicate the impact of Children With Voices' activities.

3. Grant Application Submission:

- Prepare and submit grant applications within specified deadlines, adhering to all application guidelines and requirements.

- Maintain accurate records of submitted proposals, deadlines, and communication with funding bodies.

4. Relationship Building:

- Establish and maintain positive relationships with potential donors, grant-making organisations, and other stakeholders.

- Engage in effective communication to convey the charity's mission and project goals.

5. Collaboration and Coordination:

- Work closely with the fundraising team and project managers to gather necessary information for proposals.

- Collaborate with other team members to ensure the integration of programmatic and financial data in grant applications.

What are we looking for?

Qualifications:

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

- Previous experience in grant writing, proposal development, or related fields is desirable.

- Strong research skills to identify relevant funding opportunities.

- Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.

- Detail-oriented with strong organisational and project management skills.

- Passion for the mission and values of Children With Voices.

Benefits:

- Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause and make a positive impact.

- Gain valuable experience in grant writing and fundraising within a charitable organisation.

- Develop and enhance your skills in communication, research, and project coordination.

- Travel expenses are paid and you will have a healthy meal!

What difference will you make?

As a Volunteer Bid Writer, you will play a crucial role in securing funding that directly supports vulnerable individuals and families, enabling Children With Voices to expand its vital community programs and make a lasting impact.

Before you apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter expressing your interest and relevant experience. Children With Voices values diversity and encourages candidates of all backgrounds and ages to apply.

About us: GT Scholars is a charitable social enterprise that tackles educational inequality by giving ambitious young people the support, skills and strategies they need to achieve aspirations. We run a wide range of programmes that help young people achieve their academic and career aspirations, particularly those from less-privileged backgrounds. 

What makes us different? We run tutoring, mentoring & career insight programmes that help our scholars, aged 11-18, discover their strengths, develop their mindsets and design their own futures.

There are many charitable organisations and social enterprises offering programmes to improve the life chances of young people. 

However, our programmes use a unique 3:1 model which means that we’re able to sustainably use our profits to provide additional places on our programmes, to young people from low income homes. 

We believe that all young people are gifted and talented, regardless of their background. 

Our mission is to empower and develop the next generation of leaders and change-makers and we’re looking for volunteer tutors that are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives!

If you are an undergraduate or graduate, you could make a difference by joining us as a volunteer tutor. As a volunteer tutor, you’ll need to:

• Have a passion for helping children and young people

• Provide online one-to-one tutoring support for 1 hour week

• Build pupil confidence in Maths.

• Have strong subject knowledge (confident enough to tutor up to GCSE)

• Work collaboratively with other tutors and mentors

• Have a minimum of an undergraduate degree or be working towards this

Volunteer tutoring can be extremely rewarding and volunteers with GT Scholars benefit from:

• A flexible schedule - you can choose online tutoring hours to suit your schedule

• The chance to grow your contacts and meet like-minded volunteers 

• The chance to make a real difference in the life of a young person.

Additional information: We’re looking for tutors that can commit to a minimum of 2 academic terms of volunteering.

We will need to conduct reference checks and you will need an Enhanced DBS for this role as you will be working directly with children. We can process this for you or you may submit one if this is less than 3 years old.

We are looking for up to ten UK university students to join our volunteer Student Ambassadors team and help Ygam achieve its social purpose by reaching out to students at university. This will be achieved by advising Ygam on the needs of students, supporting with content development, organising activities at your campus, and join us at events to raise awareness of gaming and gambling harms.

We are seeking individuals who are outgoing, with a confident personality. You will enjoy engaging with other students and be able to advise us on the experiences of students with regards to gaming and gambling.We’d love to hear from students with an interest in mental health, psychology, content development, and gaming. 

While gaining invaluable experience in recruitment, human resources and NFP Social enterprise,                           practice your passion within real-life scenarios.

We are looking for Recruitment Managers to join our team. The ideal candidate will play a vital role in sourcing, engaging and will help us build a diverse and dedicated team to support our brand messages and visions.

If you are enthusiastic, passionate and dedicated about building a dynamic team and are excited to contribute your recruitment skills to a meaningful cause, join us as a Recruitment Manager Volunteer. Together, we can create a positive and lasting impact in our community.

Please note the role is a voluntary position and could be entirely remote. Any incurred reasonable expenses will be paid.

Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with HR and leadership team to understand needs, roles and requirements.
- Develop and implement effective recruitment strategies and campaigns.
- Utilise online platforms, social media, and community networks to advertise opportunities.
- Assist with review applications and inquiries, and assess candidate suitability.
- Conduct interviews with potential candidates to determine their skills, motivations, and alignment with our values and visions.
- Maintain a database of potential and current candidates and keeping track of their skills, interests, and availability.
- Work closely with leadership team and other team members to ensure a seamless transition from recruitment to engagement.
- Regularly report on recruitment metrics and effectiveness to the leadership team.
- Continuously seek opportunities to improve recruitment process.

Requirements:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to effectively market and promote opportunities.
- Experience in recruitment, human resources, or volunteer management is a plus.
- Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively.
- Proficiency in using online platforms, social media, and communication tools.
- Dedicated and willing to learn.
- Committed to our values and mission 

Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can become a vital part of our team.​

ABOUT TESYouth 

TESYouth (Training, Employment Opportunities & Social Development for Youth) is a NFP social enterprise which focuses on improving the rate of youth employment, through volunteering, interactive and skill-based workshops, work-experience and training programmes. Together with our strategic partners, we collaborate with organisations to provide youth to develop their skills, and to assist in achieving their career aspirations.

Every child deserves the chance to succeed, regardless of their background. Action Tutoring is a charity dedicated to closing the attainment gap and creating a more equitable future for young people.

We're building a diverse community of tutors passionate about educational equity. We are seeking dedicated volunteers from all walks of life to tutor and support pupils facing socio-economic disadvantage in maths and English.

As a volunteer tutor, you’ll:

• Tutor a group of 1-3 pupils (primary or secondary), with options to support online or in-person.

• Dedicate just one hour a week for a 10-20 week programme.

We provide the resources - you bring your enthusiasm! You’ll use our workbooks to deliver your sessions.

Whether you're a university student, a working professional, retired or simply looking to give back, your hour a week can open doors to brighter futures for these young people and make a lasting impact.

What you'll gain:

• Comprehensive training (2-hour induction, technical training for online tutors, optional further skills training).

• Ongoing support from your dedicated programme coordinator.

• Structured session plans and workbooks.

• Travel expense reimbursement (up to £5 per session).

• Free DBS check.

• Optional tutor socials and buddy system.

We look for volunteers with:

• Solid subject knowledge in the area they wish to tutor, which may be demonstrated by a degree or grade B at A-level qualification (or equivalent) or relevant experience.

• The ability to explain concepts clearly and patiently.

• A commitment to supporting pupils’ academic progress.

We recognise that valuable experience can be gained through diverse routes. If your qualifications differ from those mentioned, we still encourage you to apply. Please highlight any relevant experience or skills in your application.

We welcome applications from volunteers across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. (Please note: This is a volunteer, unpaid position.)

Our programmes run during term time, and you can sign up at ay time throughout the year.

Our volunteers say:

" The Action Tutoring team has been fabulous in their support: timely updates, always available, closely following progress, and ready to intervene where needed, very professional indeed!"

"Volunteering is very rewarding. I would say the skills that one develops from teaching the pupils are transferable to any walk of life and make you a better person. I would highly recommend it."

About us: GT Scholars is a charitable social enterprise that tackles educational inequality by giving ambitious young people the support, skills and strategies they need to achieve aspirations. We run a wide range of programmes that help young people achieve their academic and career aspirations, particularly those from less-privileged backgrounds. 

What makes us different? We run tutoring, mentoring & career insight programmes that help our scholars, aged 11-18, discover their strengths, develop their mindsets and design their own futures.

There are many charitable organisations and social enterprises offering programmes to improve the life chances of young people. 

However, our programmes use a unique 3:1 model which means that we’re able to sustainably use our profits to provide additional places on our programmes, to young people from low income homes. 

We believe that all young people are gifted and talented, regardless of their background. 

Our mission is to empower and develop the next generation of leaders and change-makers and we’re looking for volunteer tutors that are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives!

If you are an undergraduate or graduate, you could make a difference by joining us as a volunteer tutor. As a volunteer tutor, you’ll need to:

• Have a passion for helping children and young people

• Provide online one-to-one tutoring support for 1 hour week

• Build pupil confidence in English.

• Have strong subject knowledge (confident enough to tutor up to GCSE)

• Work collaboratively with other tutors and mentors

• Have a minimum of an undergraduate degree or be working towards this

Volunteer tutoring can be extremely rewarding and volunteers with GT Scholars benefit from:

• A flexible schedule - you can choose online tutoring hours to suit your schedule

• The chance to grow your contacts and meet like-minded volunteers 

• The chance to make a real difference in the life of a young person.

Additional information: We’re looking for tutors that can commit to a minimum of 2 academic terms of volunteering.

We will need to conduct reference checks and you will need an Enhanced DBS for this role as you will be working directly with children. We can process this for you or you may submit one if this is less than 3 years old.

About us: GT Scholars is a charitable social enterprise that tackles educational inequality by giving ambitious young people the support, skills and strategies they need to achieve aspirations. We run a wide range of programmes that help young people achieve their academic and career aspirations, particularly those from less-privileged backgrounds. 

What makes us different? We run tutoring, mentoring & career insight programmes that help our scholars, aged 11-18, discover their strengths, develop their mindsets and design their own futures.

There are many charitable organisations and social enterprises offering programmes to improve the life chances of young people. 

However, our programmes use a unique 3:1 model which means that we’re able to sustainably use our profits to provide additional places on our programmes, to young people from low income homes. 

We believe that all young people are gifted and talented, regardless of their background. 

Our mission is to empower and develop the next generation of leaders and change-makers and we’re looking for volunteer tutors that are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives!

If you are an undergraduate or graduate, you could make a difference by joining us as a volunteer tutor. As a volunteer tutor, you’ll need to:

• Have a passion for helping children and young people

• Provide online one-to-one tutoring support for 1 hour week

• Build pupil confidence in Science.

• Have strong subject knowledge (confident enough to tutor up to GCSE)

• Work collaboratively with other tutors and mentors

• Have a minimum of an undergraduate degree or be working towards this

Volunteer tutoring can be extremely rewarding and volunteers with GT Scholars benefit from:

• A flexible schedule - you can choose online tutoring hours to suit your schedule

• The chance to grow your contacts and meet like-minded volunteers 

• The chance to make a real difference in the life of a young person.

Additional information: We’re looking for tutors that can commit to a minimum of 2 academic terms of volunteering.

We will need to conduct reference checks and you will need an Enhanced DBS for this role as you will be working directly with children. We can process this for you or you may submit one if this is less than 3 years old.

Shout is the UK’s only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. When people text 'Shout' to 85258, they are connected to a Shout Volunteer for a text conversation. Our volunteers provide a safe space for people to share what's causing them distress, while showing warmth and compassion.

Tasks and Responsibilities

If your application is successful, you’ll be enrolled in a training group. New groups start every two weeks.

Shout Volunteers receive 25 hours of free training in communication, listening, managing and assessing risk, and problem solving. The training is self-paced and done online. You’ll learn how to bring people in distress to a place of calm and practice skills that will be useful to you throughout life.

As we are investing in you throughout your time with us, our hope is that you will complete the training in a timely manner and look at this as a longer term commitment. The experience you gain over time is valuable and our goal is to have volunteers commit to 200 hours on the platform, which can take up to two years to complete, as we ask you to take one 2-4 hour shift per week. 

Our Volunteer Training Support team is here to support you, answer any questions and provide feedback during training and throughout your time with Shout. You’ll be joining an incredibly supportive volunteer community and have access to the resources you need to do your role.

As a volunteer, you’ll be supporting people in distress, so it’s important we see the skills required to do that while you are in training. While most trainees complete the training and go on to volunteer, not everyone will pass the training. If this happens, there are other ways you can still support us.

Selection Criteria

A Shout Volunteer is kind and compassionate, a good listener, and has the ability to remain calm when supporting people in crisis. You will also:

• Understand the difference between being friendly and being a friend

• Be aware of your own mental health and wellbeing

• Be open-minded

• Be supportive

• Be reliable

• Be discreet and able to respect confidentiality at all times

• Be accepting and non-judgemental

• Be passionate about contributing some of your time to a cause such as Shout

• Adopt a growth mindset, and be willing to accept feedback

Requirements

• You must live in the United Kingdom or New Zealand while volunteering. 
• You must be over 18 years of age.
• You will need a reliable internet connection and a private place to take your shift.
• All of your volunteering must be done using a laptop or desktop computer and Google Chrome.

It’s worth spending time thinking about the nature of the role, and whether it’s right for you. We support all texters, regardless of race, religion, sexual identity or issue. You will need to be comfortable addressing topics frequently discussed with texters (suicide, self-harm, depression, etc.) without compromising your own mental health. 

Before you apply, please consider whether either of the following applies to you:

• Have you recently experienced grief, loss or change issue/s? For example; someone close to you has been ill or has died, you’ve lost your job, your relationship has ended.

• Is your current mental health and wellbeing in a place such that the stress and pressure of listening to the challenges of others would bring additional burden to you personally?

Benefits to Volunteers

The role is rewarding and can save lives. Shout Volunteers tell us they gain a sense of pride, satisfaction and purpose from taking conversations. They also tell us that their own wellbeing increases, they learn valuable skills and gain experience they can use at work and in their personal lives.

Volunteering can also be a great addition to your CV. You do not need to have any past experience in mental health to be a Shout Volunteer - we’ll provide you with all the training and support you need to do the role.

Application Process

You will need to create your account and fill in the application using a laptop or desktop computer and in a Google Chrome browser. This is a standard requirement for all of our systems at Shout, from the application through to the platform.

You should leave up to an hour to complete the form. As Shout is a text based service and we do not conduct in person interviews for our volunteer candidates what you write in your application and the strength of your references are how we get to know you. 

We appreciate when candidates take the time to write thoughtful, considered answers. We recommend you review your application with an eye toward things like spelling, grammar and punctuation. While some of our texters will occasionally reach out using more informal text speak, our volunteers respond in full sentences and double check their messages for accuracy before hitting send. 

Your application will be reviewed once we have received responses from both of your references. We ask for a personal reference and a professional reference. The personal reference can be a friend or colleague but the other must be someone who knows you professionally or has supervised you in some way. 

This could be a manager or supervisor from where you work or a teacher or educator from where you study. We recommend you choose references who are able to speak to your ability to fulfil the selection criteria outlined above.

We do not accept references from family members. This includes your partner or their relatives, your children, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents or godparents. 

Please allow up to a month for us to review your application and return a decision. 

If your application is approved, you can book your place on training. Training groups usually start every two weeks and spaces are available to book a couple of months ahead. While you are in training and before you are allowed on the platform we will carry out a background check.