Communication Assistant Volunteer Roles in Manchester

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility.

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility allows you to make a difference in your local community, allowing us to help and support everyone to have a voice that counts.  The roles we have available will challenge you, developing your communication skills, allowing you to gain professional experience that can be used in your future career, learn new things about yourself and others, meet new people, and have fun.

Volunteer Positions Available

We're recruiting for the following voluntary positions:

• Hospital Visitor Volunteer
• Relevant Persons' Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
• Service Team Volunteer

Hospital Visitor Volunteer

VoiceAbility’s professional advocates provide independent support for people under the Mental Health Act. Hospital volunteers can help people get access to advocates, and can also support the work that advocates do.

As a hospital volunteer, you might:

• hold drop-ins
• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
• share information
• refer people to an advocate, by completing a form online or calling our helpline

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteers

Some people live in a care home because other people have decided that’s the best and safest place for them.  They’re entitled to have support from an RPR, who is there to make sure they get the best care possible.  Some people have family members as their RPR, the RPR might be a person from VoiceAbility.  An RPR Support Volunteer supports the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:

· Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support

· Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes

· Raise concerns

· Keep detailed notes and records

· Make a real difference to someone’s life

Service Team Volunteer

VoiceAbility’s service team volunteer role is a varied role that provides support to advocacy service teams in a number of ways.

As a service team volunteer in England, you might:

• support the local advocacy team as needed
• drop off promotional materials at various locations
• attend events or assist in organising small local events
• support staff with presentations
• accompany advocacy staff on visits
• support staff with group advocacy and self-advocacy workshops
• submit regular reporting forms

Volunteering opportunities are available Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact HR for further options.

How to register your expression of interest

To find out more click on the “Apply” button to be redirected to our website.

Branch Secretary

RSPCA Macclesfield, South East Cheshire & Buxton

Would you get a buzz from being part of a team of volunteers dedicated to helping animals in need, working mainly from home at a time that suits you?

Key Responsibilities:

• To act as principal communications trustee managing and maintaining the administrative affairs of the branch.
• To act as main contact point for all branch communications with the national Society, the  branch committee and the branch membership.
• Order and distribute RSPCA stationary, leaflets, posters and other fundraising and promotional material.
•  Arrange branch meetings, usually 11 per year, there is no meeting in December, meetings generally last about 2 hours and are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month.
• Ensure all branch committee decisions are implemented and actions completed.
• Arrange the branch AGM Including the compilation and distribution of the annual report, nominations and agenda in line with the strict timetable laid down in the branch rules.
• Arrange the timely dissemination of the contents of all correspondence and literature received by the branch, ensuring availability to all committee members, and reply to all  branch correspondence where necessary.
• Liaise with the Branch Support Specialist and group chief inspector and notify them of all  branch meetings.
• Monitor the secretary email address, issue the newsletters, issue any one off appeals.
• Training is available.

Sometimes of the year are much busier than others. For example, April when the Annual Report needs to be done, May when all the calling notices for the AGM need to be sent out and in June when everything needs to be prepared ready for the AGM. Working from home with occasional visits to team meetings in Macclesfield, preferably local to the areas the branch covers.

Applicants will need to be able to prioritise/organise a workload, being tactful but clear, have basic computer skills, understanding confidentiality and working independently whilst keeping everyone informed and accept the ethos of the RSPCA.

We will work with all relevant regulatory bodies, including Local Authorities, the Charity Commission and other local and national bodies to ensure that safeguarding arrangements are robust, current and fit for purpose. The branch will cooperate with all inspection and scrutiny of its safeguarding arrangements as appropriate.

All those who work or volunteer for or with the branch will be given access to this policy.    

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch. 

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Choice International is a non-profit organisation promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in the UK and overseas. It researches, develops and implements development projects for disabled people and other disadvantaged people in the UK and overseas.

We are seeking a Fundraising Volunteer to support with writing funding proposals, completing funding applications to trusts and foundations as well as contacting corporates for sponsorship for events and one-off projects. You will work form our office based in East London to support with raising funds for our events and organisation in the long term.

Your Key responsibilities will include:

- Assisting with researching and approaching corporate entities, national and international, for event sponsorships, partnerships, Charity of the Year partnerships, and donations from corporate foundations

- Assisting with writing and delivering compelling presentations and proposals for funding to trusts, foundations and other institutes

- Writing emails and speaking with potential partners over the phone about the work of Choice with the aim of securing funds for the organisation.

You will have the following skills and experience:

- A good level of  written and oral communication

- Experience of writing funding proposals and working in fundraising would be an advantage

- Knowledge of corporate fundraising techniques including Charity of the Year, sponsorship, donations, marketing would be an advantage

- An ability to present and engage potential partners/sponsors in a compelling way

We are seeking a motivated and talented volunteer to support us in this role.

Working in a small team, you will be supporting Choice Directors, and will have responsibility for corporate, major donor and other fundraising. You will get involved with some of the largest grant funders in the UK, including the Big Lottery, Comic Relief, London Council and others.

The ideal candidate must have good written communication skills, with experience of writing funding proposals, as well as being motivated to develop a career in fundraising for a good cause.

Further, you should be able to work under your own initiative. We provide a wide array of training, development and guidance for our volunteers. Most importantly, you will have the opportunity to support development projects to improve the quality of life of marginalised people.If you are passionate about equality, diversity and international development and keen to gain valuable, hands-on experience, then we would like to hear from you.Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid position, with a possibility of contributing to the cost of travel from your home to our office.

Please note due to the volume of applications we receive we are unable to respond to all applicants, hence only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Volunteer Role Description

Light Touch Volunteer

Responsible to: Volunteer Coordinator

Time commitment: Minimum 3 hour’s a week

Location: Home

About the service

North East Wales Mind is a progressive mental health organisation that supports people experiencing mental health difficulties to flourish. The aim of our work is to help people build on their strengths, overcome obstacles, and become more in control of their lives. We have faith and optimism in our clients and so the services we deliver are built around their needs. We support the people of Flintshire and Wrexham to discover their own resources to ‘recover’ from periods of poor mental health, and to live life independently with their mental health condition.

Purpose of role:

To provide phone support to service users from home/ office. This role is flexible (you can make calls anytime between 5-7pm and requires you to call a client for up to half an hour a week for a period of up to 3 months.

Must have access to the internet and a phone that can switch to private setting or NEWMIND can provide them with a phone, or use of office equipment.

Main tasks:

· Providing emotional support via phone

· Assessing surrounding support

· Advising them with available provisions and services locally

· Providing practical support such as learning activities, wellbeing practises and links available to service user from home

· Writing records of dates and times and phone discussions

· Reporting back to the Volunteer Coordinator via email and phone for any extra available support

· Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to a member of staff.

What we are looking for:

· Confident and effective communication

· Understanding of professional boundaries

· Caring nature

· Knowledge of local services is desired.

· Lived experience of mental health difficulty desirable

· Understanding of, or experience of caring for someone with mental health difficulty, can be helpful but is not essential.

· Good listening skills, non-judgemental attitude, and empathy

· Ability to motivate.

· Ability to deal with stressful and difficult situations in a calm manner.

· Commitment for a minimum of 6 months

· Volunteers must be aged 18 and over.

What we can offer you:

· All volunteers will receive training in mental health awareness, confidentiality, boundaries, risk management, plus on-going training relevant to the role.

· Regular supervision with the Volunteer Coordinator

· Volunteer expenses

We are looking for Trustees interested in Disabled People's Organisations and Independent Living, who have skills relevant to Board governance.

The Lothian Centre for Inclusive Living (LCiL) is a person-led not-for-profit organisation. We work with disabled people regardless of their impairments, people with long-term conditions and older people, parents and carers. We support people in Edinburgh, West Lothian, East Lothian and Midlothian.

LCiL support Independent Living. Independent Living means all disabled people having the same freedom, choice, dignity, and control as other citizens at home, at work, and in the community. It does not mean living by yourself or fending for yourself. It means rights to practical assistance and support to participate in society and live an ordinary life.

The Opportunity

LCiL is looking to recruit up to four new board members. You would be joining the organisation at a crucial and exciting time. After some staffing issues and dealing with the loss of our much-loved Chair in early January, the organisation has now settled under the leadership of its former CEO who has returned in an interim capacity. One of her primary tasks is to recruit a permanent Chief Executive with guidance from the Board. Thus, she is also supporting the growth of this new team of Board members alongside our existing Directors. LCiL is a vibrant Disabled People’s Organisation, and as such we are looking for individuals with experience of disability or with a strong interest in Independent Living for Disabled People. Additionally, you would bring relevant professional skills to the role.

We are currently looking for individuals with experience in business development, customer care, volunteer support, communications (digital), Human Resources (HR), deputy chair/convenor, board Secretary, Company Secretarial matters, governance, finance, policy and fundraising. However, we are happy to discuss any other experience and skills you feel would contribute to LCiL’s success.

Please refer to the Board Information Pack for further information.

Application process

To apply, please send a letter of interest (2 sides of one A4 page) , or a 5 minute video, explaining:

Why you would like to become a Trustee of LCiL?

What you can offer to the organisation?

How our organisation could help you in your role?

You may also wish to attach/send your CV.

Application deadline

We looking forward to receiving your application, please send it by 12 noon on Tuesday 22 April 2025.

After this point letters of interest will be reviewed by the Board and the interim CEO. If selected, you will be invited to an informal interview, most likely online, with one or several members of the Board and the Interim CEO. After the interview, if both you and the Board are happy for you to join the Board, we will offer you a position on a trial basis.

Special Notice: We are disability confident employer and as such we encourage everyone to share any support requirements with our recruitment team as we are always willing to assist with all information at our disposal. This can be done by emailing us.

A company Limited by Guarantee.  Registered in Scotland 129392.  Charity No SC/017954

Twinkleboost CIO equips new parents with the skills they need to support their child’s communication development, so children can have better outcomes in life. We deliver this support in the non-threatening context of a fun; multi-sensory parent and baby class; led by Speech and Language Therapy Assistants. Each week, parents and carers are taught an evidence-based speech and language strategy which is practiced throughout the session. We focus on providing free sessions to families of children living in disadvantaged areas and children with SEND. For almost a decade, Twinkleboost has operated as a CIC and has recently transitioned to a CIO.

We are looking for a number of trustees to join our board who are able to support the growth of Twinkleboost CIO. We are looking for a trustee with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Experience of grant writing and bid applications
• Experience of income generation within a charity
• Experience of accounting
• A academic background of Speech and Language Therapy
• Personal experience of facing challenges as a parent
• Those living in the areas Twinkleboost operates: Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester
• Experience of business or management

The successful candidate with possess the following personal attributes:

• Flexibility to engage in the operation of the charity
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Good independent judgement

What difference will you make?

As a member of our board you will support our work and strategic direction, as well as help us to achieve our Purpose to support families so children can have better outcomes in life. The role of trustee at Twinkleboost is varied and interesting, providing scope to really make a difference.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a trustee, you will:

• be committed to the purpose and values of Twinkleboost CIO.
• work with the other trustees to implement and deliver the Strategic Plan.
• ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• contribute to the running of Twinkleboost CIO in your area of experience.
• prepare for, and attend, trustee and committee meetings.
• maintain confidentiality on sensitive and confidential information.

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.

Main purpose of job: To host our Parent/Carer online community support group as part of Mast Cell Actions community support services.

Key tasks include:

· Host support sessions with professionalism and enthusiasm.

· Moderate Q&A sessions, and facilitate audience interaction to keep participants engaged.

· Manage technical aspects of virtual events, to ensure smooth execution.

· Take the register and send post event emails using our bespoke event platform

· Raise safeguarding concerns using internal processes and procedures. Training will be provided

· Maintain confidentiality and follow charity policies and procedures

· Undertake relevant training

Key Objectives Include:

· The main purpose of this role is to facilitate and host our Parent/Carer Support Sessions alongside another volunteer

· Host support sessions in a manner that captivates and engages the audience, keeping them interested and actively participating throughout the event.

· Reassure and validate participants' experiences whilst encouraging story-sharing.

· Manage the technical aspects of virtual events proficiently.

· Represent Mast Cell Action professionally at all times, demonstrating strong communication skills, reliability, and adaptability in a virtual environment.

Experience/skills required:

· Proven experience as a virtual event host, moderator, or similar role is desirable but not essential as we can train you.

· Must have personal experience of being a parent or carer for a child with MCAS or suspected MCAS

About Waterwatch UK

Waterwatch UK is currently transitioning to become a charity, strengthening its mission to hold polluters accountable and empower communities to protect and improve water quality. We work to ensure transparency, drive policy change, and support public engagement in safeguarding our waterways.

Role Purpose

As a trustee, you will provide strategic oversight, ensure good governance, and help Waterwatch UK achieve its mission. Trustees collectively guide the organisation’s direction, legal compliance, financial health, and public impact.

Available Trustee Roles

We are recruiting trustees with expertise in the following areas. Candidates should specify in your application which role they are applying for.

Please note that the specific roles may be adjusted based on the applications we receive to ensure the best mix of skills and expertise on the board.

1. Chair of Trustees

• Leads the board, ensuring effective governance, decision-making, and strategic direction.
• Acts as a key ambassador for Waterwatch UK.
• Supports and guides the CEO.
• Chairs board meetings and ensures all trustees are engaged.

2. Treasurer

• Oversees financial planning, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Ensures compliance with charity financial regulations.
• Works with the CEO to develop sustainable funding strategies.

3. Secretary (Governance Trustee)

• Manages governance processes, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission requirements.
• Supports meeting administration, record-keeping, and reporting.
• Ensures policies and procedures are up to date.

4. Fundraising & Grants Trustee

• Develops and oversees fundraising strategies, including grant applications and donor engagement.
• Identifies new funding opportunities and partnerships.
• Advises on diversifying income sources.

5. Marketing & Communications Trustee

• Leads public engagement strategies, including branding, digital media, and PR.
• Supports outreach efforts to raise awareness and grow Waterwatch’s supporter base.
• Advises on website, social media, and campaign strategies.

6. Legal & Compliance Trustee

• Ensures Waterwatch UK operates within charity law and regulatory requirements.
• Provides legal guidance on governance, contracts, and policies.
• Advises on risk management.

7. Community Engagement & Partnerships Trustee

• Strengthens relationships with local communities, ensuring Waterwatch UK remains community-led.
• Develops partnerships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, and campaign groups.
• Supports volunteer engagement.

8. Environmental & Policy Trustee

• Provides expertise on water pollution, environmental law, and policy advocacy.
• Helps shape Waterwatch UK’s campaigns and policy positions.
• Engages with policymakers and regulators to push for systemic change.

General Trustee Responsibilities

• Ensure Waterwatch UK operates in line with its charitable objectives and complies with relevant laws.
• Contribute to strategic planning, decision-making, and risk management.
• Support financial oversight, ensuring funds are well managed and aligned with charitable goals.
• Represent Waterwatch UK’s values, advocating for its mission and engaging with stakeholders.
• Participate in board meetings and relevant working groups or committees.

Person Specification

We are looking for individuals who:

• Are committed to Waterwatch UK’s mission and values.
• Have expertise in at least one of the areas listed above.
• Can dedicate time and energy to board meetings and strategic work.
• Bring an independent perspective and constructive challenge.

Time Commitment

• Attend quarterly board meetings (in person or virtual).
• Participate in relevant working groups or committees.
• Support fundraising, advocacy, or governance efforts as needed.

Why Become a Trustee?

• Help shape the future of a newly forming charity tackling water pollution.
• Gain board-level experience and expand your professional network.
• Be part of a passionate and purpose-driven team.

How to Apply

Please include the trustee role you are applying for.

In your email, please include:

• A short expression of interest (1-2 pages) outlining:
  • The role you are applying for.
  • Your relevant experience and skills.
  • Why you want to support Waterwatch UK.
• Your CV
• LinkedIn profile (optional).

Currently, expenses are not covered, but the role should not incur any financial burden as it is remote. Once we secure funding, expenses will be reimbursed.

Deadline for applications: 17th April 2025 at 18:00

We are looking for self-motivated and compassionate individuals to help deliver our Helpline service and make a difference to the lives of anyone affected by cancer.

The Helpline offers those with cancer a chance to share their feelings and experiences with someone who has empathy for what they are going through. Helpline Volunteers create a safe and welcoming environment, listen, and provide emotional support and signposting individuals onto further information.

No special qualifications are needed for this role, but access to a telephone in a comfortable quiet setting is essential.

Little Cell of Mine Foundation

Little Cell of Mine Foundation empowers individuals with sickle cell disease through healthcare, mental health support, and entrepreneurial training.

Little Cell of Mine Foundation addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals living with sickle cell disease. These include limited and often inadequate access to specialized healthcare, recurrent pain crises that disrupt daily life and productivity, and the financial burden associated with ongoing medical expenses. Additionally, the foundation recognizes the psychological impact of the disease, including isolation, anxiety, and depression. By providing comprehensive support, from healthcare and mental health services to economic empowerment programs, we aim to improve the overall quality of life for those affected by sickle cell disease.

Fundraising Officer

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Are you passionate about fundraising and looking to gain more experience in international and Nigerian nonprofit fundraising? Little Cell of Mine Foundation is seeking a Fundraising Assistant to help us secure resources and expand our impact for sickle cell warriors.

What You’ll Do: Assist in researching and identifying funding opportunities (grants, corporate sponsorships, donor programs). Support in drafting proposals and fundraising campaigns. Help develop and execute creative fundraising strategies. Engage with potential donors and partners to build relationships. Track fundraising progress and assist in reporting.

What We’re Looking For: Someone with some experience in fundraising and a desire to grow. Knowledge of international and Nigerian nonprofit fundraising is a plus. Strong communication and research skills. A proactive and detail-oriented mindset.

Weekly Time Commitment

4-6 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

6+ months

Methodist Modern Art Collection Management Committee – curatorial/registrarial volunteer vacancies

Experienced and creative art curators or registrars are invited to express interest in volunteering as members of the Management Committee for the  Methodist Church’s Modern Art Collection. We are seeking expertise to help us to care for and exhibit these works, to advise Borrowers and support exhibitions ‘on the ground’, while always ensuring the Collection is being used as an effective tool for mission.

This unique and world class, touring collection comprises of more than 55 artworks by renowned artists such as Sutherland, Frink and Hambling. Works from the Collection are loaned for exhibition several times each year, usually to churches rather than professional galleries, as well as being shown annually in the highly interactive setting of the Church’s assembly for children and young people.

We are seeking one or more committed volunteers to join the Methodist Modern Art Collection Management Committee and or be co-opted to one of its working groups. The Committee normally meets three times a year online, plus an in-person ‘away day’, with electronic communication and online working groups convened in between. We pay all reasonable expenses for volunteers to attend in-person committee meetings, and to visit potential exhibition venues, meet exhibition organisers in person, or to support the installation/de-install of exhibitions.
 

Closing date : 7 April 2025

Meet with the Nomination panel :25 April 2025

FareShare Greater Manchester is looking for safe, confident drivers to join our busy, friendly delivery team. 

We re-distribute tonnes of surplus food a month to charities and community initiatives across Greater Manchester. This is an achievement of which we’re proud, and want to expand and is why we need your driving and delivery skills to support our growing operation, especially in these current times of increased need.

Key responsibilities

Driving a van to deliver surplus food orders to the premises of the various Community Food Members we support. 
Loading and unloading the vehicle and carrying out a range of tasks, from basic vehicle checks to delivery administration.

As a Delivery Driver at FareShare, you will be driving a temperature-controlled 3.5 tonnes Mercedes Sprinter van; working closely with a Driver’s Assistant to re-distribute food orders to the premises of a wide variety of Community Food Members. You will be involved with loading the vehicle and carrying out a range of tasks, from basic vehicle checks to delivery administration.

The required skills and attributes are as follows. You must:

Be aged 25 or over, with a clean driver's licence (or a maximum of 3 points).
(Experience of driving a van is desirable though not essential).

Be reliable and be able to commit to pre-agreed volunteer shifts.

Be physically fit to take on moving and handling of food orders.

Possess the ability to follow procedures and instructions.

Have good verbal communication skills.

Have a high respect for Health & Safety standards and procedures.

Have an interest in the work of FareShare Greater Manchester and our values.

In return you will gain:

Career, CV advice and support

A reference for future employers

Reimbursement of travel and lunch expenses 

The opportunity to give practical help to fight food poverty and reduce food waste (and associated CO2 emissions)

The opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends

Our operating hours are Monday - Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm. 

Drivers' 4 hour shifts begin at 8:30am. 

We especially welcome volunteers who can commit to one day a week. 

The days and rota hours of volunteering are agreed around your availability.

​IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us. There are no exceptions to this rule. This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles. We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.

Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)

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.

Beacon Counselling is a registered mental health charity in Stockport dedicated to improving mental health and emotional resilience of our community for more than 40 years.

We deliver a whole range of mental health and wellbeing services in schools, community hubs, online and from our base in the heart of Stockport, offered by our dedicated team of qualified paid and volunteer counsellors and wellbeing workers.

We are looking for both adult and/or children’s qualified volunteer counsellors, dedicated to improving the mental health and emotional resilience of our community. Our ideal candidates are committed to providing a high standard in their work, with a passion to supporting clients to help them on their journey towards positive mental health and who embed and share Beacon’s values.

Alongside the ability to expand your skills, experience and development through the delivery of a diverse caseload, you will have access to CPD opportunities and training, staff counselling scheme, weekly clinical drop ins, charity worker discount scheme, travel expenses will be provided and internal supervision will be provided with a minimum commitment of 2 clients per week.