Volunteer roles
Eastside seeks expressions of interest from prospective trustees who believe that they can make a significant and positive contribution to the organisation as we enter our 4th decade of delivery.
Remuneration: This is a pro bono role. Domestic travel expenses will be covered and reimbursed where required.
Reports to: Chair of the Trustees
Key Relationships With: Trustees, CEO / Artistic Director, Eastside Team, Key Stakeholders and Partners
Term of Appointment: 3 years +
Location: Eastside’s office on Hackney Road, E2 7NX, with occasional project visits across London and annual away day
Role Specification
Eastside is seeking Trustees to provide guidance and support for the CEO and senior executive team as well as expertise to the Board of Trustees. The organisation is in a strong position going into 2026 and is set on significant growth and expansion, aiming to maximise the opportunities created by recent successes; these include outstanding results on our national projects: Creativity Live (streaming live creativity workshops into schools and classrooms across the UK); SPOKEN WORD POWER (which has engaged and captured the voices of thousands of young people from deprived neighbourhoods across the country); sell out West End Gala fundraising nights (APRIL FOOLERY) and a national lottery heritage fund supported 30th anniversary project.
The Trustees will support the team in delivering exciting new projects across the creative arts, with particular focus on spoken-word poetry, the dramatic arts and film/digital media programmes. The Trust's work in schools is expanding and, while London remains a priority, there are clear plans to bring Eastside's offering to a national and international audience.
Person Specification
Eastside is looking for individuals who are passionate about its work with children and young people, and its mission to transform educational provision and learning experiences across the capital city and beyond through the application of art, culture and creativity. Applicants will have strong professional experience and networks, as well as stakeholder, funder and partner leverage.
Trustees will advise on how to reach wider audiences, grow corporate partnerships and provide support for Eastside's educational programmes. We particularly encourage applications from those representing diverse backgrounds and those with relevant lived experience. Experience at a senior level within the Arts/Youth Fundraising and Philanthropy sectors, Digital or creative arts (particularly film, TV and theatre), Legal, Education and Facilities management sectors (with revenue generation experience) would be welcome.
We welcome candidates who have experience of fundraising, either for a non-profit or a commercial organisation. Those without direct experience but who have good connections to high-net-worth individuals, grant-giving Trusts & Foundations or Corporate/Family Foundations are also highly encouraged to apply.
In addition to attending Board meetings, it is hoped that Trustees will attend Eastside projects where possible to engage with the creative delivery and the organisation's artists, advocate for its work within their own professional and personal networks, and promote individual and company-wide fundraising initiatives. Sitting on a trustee board requires the ability to take a more advisory approach than in executive roles. If you have not previously held any trustee or non-executive positions, you should demonstrate a track record of influencing the direction of your organisation at board level. If you already have significant trustee or non-executive experience, please detail this.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
-
Be 18 years of age or over.
-
Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
-
Undertake training - this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
-
Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
-
Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
-
Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
-
VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
-
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Support our incredible team of runners as they take on one of the UK’s most popular marathons in the seaside town of Brighton & Hove.
They’ll be running 26.2 miles around the scenic seaside town - taking in the iconic sights of Brighton’s Pier and Pavilion. Join us as we take to the streets to make some noise and give our runners the best event day experience.
When? Sunday 12 April 2026
Where? Brighton/Hove, exact location TBC
Cheer point am - 11.30am - 3.30pm
Cheer point pm - 1pm - 5pm
Whether you’re flying solo or looking for a fun Sunday activity for the family, add your voice to the noise and make a day of it. There’s no atmosphere quite like it!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
-
Be 18 years of age or over.
-
Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
-
Undertake training - this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
-
Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
-
Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
-
Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
-
VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
-
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
-
Be 18 years of age or over.
-
Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
-
Undertake training - this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
-
Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
-
VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
-
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Outreach Volunteers provide support to witnesses when they are attending court, as well as pre-trial and post-trial helping them to feel safe and informed. You will provide support to both prosecution and defence witnesses.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
-
Be 18 years of age or over.
-
Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
-
Undertake training – this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
-
Undertake an Enhanced DBS with Child Barred List check & be part of the DBS Update Service.
-
Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
-
Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
-
VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
-
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We’re excited to be opening a new café at our Spring Garden Lane site this April and are looking for warm, friendly volunteers to help create a welcoming space for our visitors, patients, and staff.
In this role, you’ll support the day-to-day running of the Hospice café. Tasks may include serving customers, preparing light snacks and drinks, operating the till, and helping to keep the café clean, organised, and inviting.
No previous experience is necessary—just a positive attitude, reliability, and a willingness to learn and support others.
Full training will be provided, including an online food safety course to help you feel confident in the role.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
The Hospice of St Francis helps local people and their families, in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, to live their precious lives well.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This role provides a telephone listening and support service to bereaved carers’ and family members whose relatives died under the care of The Hospice of St Francis. Last year our Bereavement Support Line volunteers made over 1,000 calls.
We are looking for additional volunteers to support this service. Do you have strong listening skills? Are you reflective, self-aware, adaptive with basic IT skills? We'd love to hear from you.
The role will be ome based and you will receive full training and ongoing support.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
The Hospice of St Francis helps local people and their families, in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, to live their precious lives well.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Inpatient unit Volunteers provide support to the kitchen staff by delivering meals and snacks to patients, collecting used crockery from patient rooms and washing up all staff & patient crockery and cutlery. Volunteers in this role also provide a warm welcome to visitors when required. This allows catering staff to concentrate on food preparation, and nursing staff to concentrate on patient care.
Full training provided. An enhanced DBS check will be required for this role.
“Since helping at the Hospice of St Francis I feel as though my life has been much enriched”
IPU Volunteer
Registered Charity
101 - 500
The Hospice of St Francis helps local people and their families, in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, to live their precious lives well.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Hours: We are looking for committed volunteers to help in our shops. Shop volunteers need to be fit and work to a rota; usually one morning or afternoon each week, but we can be flexible. We are particularly looking for volunteers in the following shops:
Greenway Owned (Chesham) NEW SHOP OPENED! Flexible shifts available, initially Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, from February to also be opening Monday to Wednesday
Amersham Owned- Monday afternoons, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Friday mornings, Weekends
Berkhamsted Owned - Tuesdays, Wednesday afternoons (Sorter), Saturday afternoons
Abbots Langley Owned - Friday afternoons
Highfield Owned (Hemel Hempstead) - Monday afternoons, Friday afternoons, Saturdays
Kings Langley Owned - Monday mornings, Saturday afternoons (ideally Steamer). DofE - Wednesday after school, Saturday mornings
Returned to Glory (Berkhamsted) - Mondays mornings and Weekends (ideally willing and able to help move furniture)
Marshalswick Owned (St Albans) - Steamers and Sorters for most days and Sundays also Stock Processor/Till Operator
All our shops are in the heart of the community. If you are looking for a fun role, to learn new skills and to work within a fantastic team then shops have the volunteer roles for you!
Tasks are incredibly varied but all require a commitment to the Hospice values. The main roles with training given, are:
Till Operator - serving customers on the till, customer facing
Steamer - Steaming clothes ready for sale
Sorter - Sorting donations in preparation to sell
Stock Processor - Hanging, tagging clothes, washing bric-a-brac, filling shop shelves
If you are interested in finding out more about these roles pop into one of the shops for a chat with the shop manager, complete our online application form or contact our friendly volunteering team.
“Bright, lively and a fun place to work with a brill people.” Shop Volunteer
Registered Charity
101 - 500
The Hospice of St Francis helps local people and their families, in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, to live their precious lives well.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Supporting our events has something for everyone! With roles based at our community events and mass participation events there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in a fun, memorable event experience.
Event support volunteers help our events by marshalling, welcoming participants, setting up and stewarding.
Our volunteers help to run and structure the events better, keep participants safe and allow us to continue to raise money for our care services.
Each role requires a different level of commitment, so please get in touch if you think you can help.
"I love helping at events, there is such a sense of camaraderie"
Event Volunteer
Registered Charity
101 - 500
The Hospice of St Francis helps local people and their families, in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, to live their precious lives well.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
A Touch of Gentleness is a non-profit CIC shaping a more compassionate culture by putting gentleness, presence, and human connection back at the heart of society, organisations, and everyday life
Please note the locations mentioned are a guide only. This role will require some remote work, and some in-person work around East Sussex.
Role Purpose
This is a wonderfully social and meaningful role that includes:
- Being a point of contact and support for volunteers,
- Nurturing a sense of community for volunteers in the local area.
- Representing A Touch of Gentleness at network meetings online and in person,
The role provides a beautiful opportunity to nurture community, connection, and gentle leadership in action.
Key Responsibilities
- Reporting to and liaising with the CEO and local Events Co-Ordinator’s
- Contacting and supporting newly qualified volunteers
- Fostering a Culture of Care amongst volunteers
- Organising occasional coffee meet-ups for volunteers in local areas,
- Networking online and in person with other organisations and charities as an ambassador for A Touch of Gentleness
Skills Essential
- Strong communication, listening and people skills
- A warm and open disposition
- Organised, reliable, responsive and solution-orientated
- Basic IT skills (email, google forms, WhatsApp)
- Ability to work independently while being part of a wider team
- Passion for human connection, inclusion and gentle presence
- A desire to serve others
- Preferably a car driver
Skills Desirable
- Familiarity with networking
- Ability to organise small local fund-raising events.
About A Touch of Gentleness CIC
A Touch of Gentleness is a heart-led not for profit CIC (community interest company ) offering free hand massage and gentle listening presence to individuals in the community and in organisations. With over 150 trained volunteers, we aim to bring more connection through touch and active listening. Through this service we helping to shape a more compassionate culture. One that is grounded in generosity, gentleness, joy and peace.
What We Offer
- Connection with a growing and compassionate network
- Flexibility to work around your life and community
- Supportive team environment and regular check-ins
- Training and development opportunities as we grow
HOW TO APPLY
If this feels like work you would be proud to do, please send a short covering letter to Helen detailing your suitability for the role and reasons behind your application along with your CV.
We review applications as they arrive and aim to respond within two weeks.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
-
Be 18 years of age or over.
-
Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
-
Undertake training - this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
-
Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
-
Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
-
Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
-
VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
-
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
Why join the Witness Service now
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Outreach Volunteers provide support to witnesses when they are attending court, as well as pre-trial and post-trial helping them to feel safe and informed. You will provide support to both prosecution and defence witnesses.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one or our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
-
Be 18 years of age or over.
-
Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
-
Undertake training – this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
-
Undertake an Enhanced DBS with Child Barred List check & be part of the DBS Update Service.
-
Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
-
Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Expenses
-
All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
-
VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
-
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support — and we’re also now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.
The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence.
Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.
The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.
This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service — so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.
Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.
Why volunteer with us?
-
Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.
-
Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.
-
Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.
-
Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.
What do we ask of you?
In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:
-
Be 18 years of age or over.
-
Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.
-
Undertake training - this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.
-
Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.
-
Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
-
Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.
Diversity Matters
-
VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
-
VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
-
We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.