Mentor volunteer roles in barkingside, greater london

Refugee Action Trustees x 2
Salary: N/A This is an unpaid volunteer role
Location: UK-based. Meetings are held in London, Manchester, Bradford, and Birmingham

About Refugee Action
Refugee Action exists to work with refugees and people seeking asylum who’ve survived some of the world’s worst regimes. We are a national charity with more than 40 years’ experience of empowering people who’ve survived some of the world’s worst regimes to secure the protection and support that they need to live with dignity and respect and build a new life in the UK. We do this by providing expert advice and casework, building the capacity of partner organisations and campaigning on the policies that affect them.

Our new 2030 Strategy
Here is the link to our 2030 Strategy; you can read more here.

Everyone involved in developing our new strategy was clear that if we want to create the future that refugees and many people in the UK want, we must demolish the hostile environment. It’s an environment that manifests itself in the racist rhetoric of our leaders and the systems they create; systems that are dehumanising and complex, which segregate people and sap their spirit. Our current leaders may be stooping to new lows with their words and policies, but they are simply repeating the behaviour of previous Governments. The hostility has been ramping up for years. And that hostility is rooted in a racialised logic that underpins the entire asylum and immigration system.

As a trustee of Refugee Action

We are currently looking to recruit 2 new trustees to join the Board of Refugee Action. Both roles are for people with lived experience of displacement.

You will be responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and steering the long-term stability of the charity. You will need to persuade, influence and communicate effectively with the rest of the board.

We are interested in recruiting Trustees who have insights into how grassroots, lived experience-led charities and organisations in the migration sector / movement operate and the issues they face; and also people who have insights into providing community-building and community development activities with refugees and people seeking asylum.

Please don’t be discouraged if this isn’t something you’ve done before, or if you don’t meet all elements of the role specification; we will provide mentoring and training to support new Trustees to understand their role. Please do consider applying if you have the courage and enthusiasm to encourage, challenge and support us to be the best we can be.

All our trustees are committed to being actively anti-racist and removing the barriers to power for people with lived experience. You will need to be committed to and demonstrate an understanding of shifting power to people with lived experience, anti-racist practice and decolonisation.

Overall duties of Trustees

Statutory duties
• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document for public benefit
• To ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects: the organisation must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are.
• To contribute actively to the board of Trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation
• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds

Other duties

In addition to the statutory responsibilities outlined above, other duties may include:

• Lead and provide guidance to the board in a given area of expertise
• Meet with donors and any other stakeholders to represent Refugee Action and its beneficiaries
• Keep up to date with Refugee Action’s services to clients, Influencing and Fundraising work
• Attend 5 meetings a year– 4 board meetings and 1 away day.
• Read and scrutinise board papers before a meeting so as to be able to contribute fully in the meeting
• Occasional participation in a working group
• Occasional participation in staff interview, disciplinary or grievance panels

Skills, knowledge and experience need for this role

• Commitment to Refugee Action’s vision, purpose and values and to act in a manner consistent with these, including being committed to shifting power to people with lived experience, anti-racist practice.
• Sound independent judgement with the confidence and insight to make positive contributions to board discussions.
• An interest in and some understanding of charity governance, the role and expectations of trustees.
• An ability to work collaboratively and effectively as a member of a team.
• Ability and willingness to positively represent the organisation.
• A willingness to learn and to enable us to learn from you.
• Experience and insights into leading or managing a lived experience-led charity or organisation in the migration sector / movement
• Experience of providing community-building and community development support and activities with refugees and people seeking asylum
• Experience of strategic thinking and of setting monitoring and reviewing plans
• Ability to read and understand financial information, review organisational policies and practices and identify key areas of risk (Training also offered in these areas if needed)
• Understanding of the role of Trustee and the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities this involves. (Training also offered in these areas if needed)

To apply for the Trustee role

To apply for the Trustee role, you will need to submit a maximum of no more than 4 A4 pages explaining how you meet the Experience, Skills and Knowledge section outlined in page 3 – 4 of the Role Description.

Experience may be paid or voluntary, full or part-time, in the UK or overseas. Don’t be discouraged if this isn’t something you’ve done before, or if you don’t meet all elements of the role specification; we will provide mentoring and training to support new Trustees to understand their role.

Closing date: 23:59 on Sunday 27 April 2025
Interviews: 15 & 16 May 2025 (on Zoom)

Refugee Action only operates in the UK, so all roles are UK-based.

Communications Board Member

YAF’s Communications Team underpin all of the organisation's outputs by managing our communication channels and brand identity. They are instrumental in providing a voice for our Board, our members and our industry peers. 

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work as part of a creative and proactive team, with the autonomy to devise innovative content plans and company-wide messaging. It’s a great opportunity to develop a combined fundraising, marketing and digital skill-set, offering tangible and versatile professional experience. 

What you’ll gain:

• Fantastic opportunity to develop new skills and experience outside of your work and boost your CV

• Chance to work with a friendly team and like-minded people that are passionate about transforming the landscape of voluntary professional development in arts fundraising

• Develop your network with leaders in arts fundraising and in the cultural sector

• Attend all YAF’s events and networking opportunities

We are working in partnership with New Citizens’ Gateway, a charity that empowers refugees and asylum seekers to foster a sense of belonging, integrate into the UK and rebuild their lives. They provide support for refugees and asylum seekers across London and beyond through a holistic model and multifaceted approach, which acknowledges the whole person and all their physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs. Their services including advice and guidance, campaigning, ESOL classes, community classes and groups, counselling, wellbeing services, youth activities and mentoring. 

New Citizens’ Gateway (NCG) are actively developing their Board and are now seeking new Trustees, bringing fresh skills and professional backgrounds to help continue their growth. The new trustees will join a collaborative and ambitious team and will be responsible for providing strategic support related to their area of expertise and support overall governance and leadership of the organisation.

NCG wants its Board to reflect the people it serves, so they actively encourage candidates to apply with lived experience of the refugee and/or forced migration journey to rebuilding your life in the U.K.

Key skills and experience are sought, although not limited to, the following areas: 

• Finance / wealth management
• Fundraising
• Marketing and communications
• Youth work
• NGO leadership

However, the Board is open to expressions of interest from candidates who do not possess skills in these areas, but that would like to be considered as a Board member. 

Board meetings are held four times a year (hybrid) in addition to attending occasional networking, fundraising and ceremonial events and meetings. All reasonable expenses will be covered by the charity. We anticipate a 1-2-hour monthly time commitment. 

If you do not match the criteria for this role, please don’t be put off from applying - training and support can be agreed for the right candidate.

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your expression of interest should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

Closing date: 12th May 2025

Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by the EOD on Monday 19th in preparation for submission to NCG on Tuesday 20th May.

Interviews with NCG: TBC

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field. While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

About the Role

The ePDP Programme Manager is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the Enhanced Professional Development Programme (ePDP) and managing the ePDP Liaison. This position ensures the successful delivery of the ePDP, aligning it with organisational goals and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. The Programme Manager will work closely with senior leadership, Heads of Department (HoDs), and the ePDP Liaison to design, implement, and refine the programme, ensuring it meets the needs of participants and the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Oversight of the ePDP

• Develop and execute the strategic vision for the ePDP, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.

• Collaborate with the Director: HRBP, Legal, IT & ePDP to define programme goals, KPIs, and success metrics.

• Continuously evaluate and refine the programme to address emerging needs and industry trends.

2. Team Leadership & Management

• Manage and mentor the ePDP Liaison, providing guidance and support to ensure effective programme execution.

• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team culture, encouraging innovation and accountability.

3. Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Heads of Department (HoDs) and external partners to ensure programme relevance and impact.

• Act as the primary point of contact for senior stakeholders, providing regular updates on programme progress and outcomes.

4. Programme Design & Implementation

• Oversee the design and delivery of ePDP content, ensuring it meets the developmental needs of participants.

• Coordinate with internal and external facilitators to deliver high-quality training sessions, workshops, and resources.

• Ensure the integration of feedback from participants and stakeholders to enhance programme effectiveness.

5. Monitoring & Evaluation

• Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track participant progress and programme impact.

• Analyse data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

• Prepare comprehensive reports for senior leadership, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

6. Communication & Advocacy

• Promote the ePDP across the organisation, ensuring high visibility and engagement.

• Develop communication strategies to highlight success stories and programme benefits.

Required Skills

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align the ePDP with organisational goals and adapt to changing priorities.

• Leadership & Team Management: Proven experience in leading and mentoring teams to achieve results.

• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional relationship-building skills to engage and influence senior leaders and cross-functional teams.

• Project Management: Strong organisational skills to manage complex programmes, budgets, and timelines.

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate programme vision and outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

• 5+ years of experience in programme management, learning and development, or a related field.

• Experience in designing and implementing professional development programmes.

About us

With our community work spanning more than three decades, Brentford FC Community Sports Trust has established itself as a pioneering organisation for the local community. It uses the power of sport to educate, motivate and inspire people from all backgrounds.

We are at a very exciting time of the Trust's development. 2025 celebrates 20 years as a Trust during which time we have expanded the way in which we engage with our surrounding communities with the aim of improving access and opportunity to physical activity, coaching, education, mentoring and employment. Our Community Hub model is proving to be a success in increasing activity and with the advent of a new stadium and Premier League status we have seized the opportunity to be creative in the way we invest in people and places.

Chair opportunity

Our current Chair is planning to retire in September 2025, after 20 highly successful years of dedicated service. We are now seeking to appoint a new Chair to lead the charity and ensure it continues to deliver substantial social impact.

We are looking for an experienced leader who understands good governance and enjoys working in a collaborative and inclusive way. Our new Chair should be positive, resilient, determined and someone who listens and learns from others within and beyond BFCCST.  A genuine commitment and empathy towards the needs of the communities that the Trust serves is key.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to become Chair of what can only be described as an extraordinary Trust and help to deliver the new strategy, using the Power of Sport to positively impact the lives of our community.

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting Brentford FC Community Sports Trust in recruiting for this role. Please ensure you read the candidate information pack before applying.

Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter in Word doc. format. Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following:

• Why is the BFCCST’s work important to you and how can you contribute to the Trust as our Chair?
• What experience can you demonstrate of bringing strategic thinking to a purpose-led environment focused on creating social impact?
• How would you go about ensuring that our many stakeholders are heard and represented at Board level?

The closing date for applications is Monday 28th April. Longlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place shortly after and shortlisted candidates will have an interview with the panel at BFCCST during the week beginning 12th May.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you. 

Brentford FC Community Sports Trust is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity to ensure that we reflect the full breadth of the people we aim to support. We work within an increasingly diverse area, and it is important that the Board is representative of the communities that we serve. We would particularly welcome applications from women and people from an ethnic minority background who are currently under-represented on the Board and warmly welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

BuDS’ visionary aim is to abolish disability by building a world which is Fair4All, free of the barriers which disable people.We are on an exciting journey to become a national charity, expanding our reach and impact across England. By 2025-26, this transformation will be complete, marked by a name change to ‘BuDS Disability Service’ and a shift to Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) status.

The role of Co-Secretary will be pivotal for the charity as it moves forward. We have decided to recruit Co-Secretaries because we recognise that the role will be easier to manage if divided between two individuals. The Co-Secretaries will be Trustees of BuDS and will need to embody our values and ethos. 

What Does the Role Entail?

The role of Co-Secretary is expected to involve a time commitment of around 2.5-3 hours per week, a combined total of 5-6 hours between the two post-holders. BuDS works remotely and flexibly using Microsoft Teams, so much of the work can be done at your own pace at times which suit you best. Meetings are kept to a minimum as all the Trustees are busy people.

Working closely with the Co-Chairs and Co-Treasurers, and split between the two CoSecretaries, the four key responsibilities will be:

1.The running of the Trustee Board & its meetings

2.Arranging the Annual General Meeting and curating the Annual Report

3.Liaison with the Charity Commission

4.Supporting the move to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation

What Experience & Skills Are Needed?

These are the skills and experience we think are needed for this role, divided between the two Co-Secretaries. We are keen to develop people’s knowledge and skills through training and mentoring.

Essential:

Experience and knowledge of supporting meetings and decision-making

Can use Microsoft Office 365 applications for remote working

A flexible, positive, problem-solving and organised approach to tasks

Commitment to the social model of disability

Lived experience as a disabled person Lives in England

Desirable:

Understanding of charity governance and the role of charity secretary.

Knowledge about Charitable Incorporated Organisations

About the Chair of Trustee Role

Role Overview

The Chair of Trustees ensures effective governance and strategic direction for Rebuilding Lives UK. They provide leadership to the board, oversee decision-making, and act as a key ambassador for the charity. The Chair supports the Chief Executive while ensuring accountability and compliance with regulatory requirements. A key responsibility of the Chair is to ensure that all trustees are actively engaged in their roles, fulfilling their responsibilities, and participating in training.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the board to ensure strong governance, accountability, and strategic leadership.
• Ensure that all trustees actively fulfill their roles, contribute to decision-making, and engage with the charity’s work.
• Provide mentorship and oversight to the Chief Executive.
• Hold trustees accountable for attending training and participating in board activities.
• Ensure that safeguarding measures are implemented across the charity.
• Oversee board meetings, ensuring productive discussions and informed decision-making.
• Represent the charity externally and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders.
• Support financial oversight, ensuring sustainability and compliance.
• Be actively involved in the charity’s operations where possible, offering support beyond governance.
• The Chair plays a key role in providing strategic direction and supporting the CEO through regular mentoring and guidance. While the board collectively oversees the charity’s performance, the Chair works closely with the CEO to ensure they are supported in their role, offering insights and fostering a collaborative relationship between the CEO and trustees.

Who We Are Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Experience in chairing boards or senior governance roles.
• Strong strategic leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
• Minimum of 10 hours per month dedicated to board duties.

What You’ll Gain from This Role

Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:

• Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
• Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
• Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
• Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
• Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
• Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.

Mandatory Training Requirement

All trustees, including the Chair, are required to complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of their appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.

Terms of Appointment

The Chair serves an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.

Voluntary Role

All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. 

Time Commitment:

• 10 hours per month, including:
  • Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
  • Providing strategic leadership and guidance to the CEO.
  • Annual half-day strategy session and leadership planning.
  • Regular check-ins with trustees to ensure engagement and accountability.

Planning Aid London (PAL) is seeking a remote volunteer Prospect Researcher to support our fundraising and supporter engagement campaign running from April to June 2025.

This short-term role (2–3 weeks, flexible) involves identifying individuals, organisations, and companies with an interest in planning, placemaking, and community development.

Your research will help PAL connect with potential donors, campaign amplifiers, and individuals who can make warm introductions. Tasks include online research via social media, professional networks, and publications; recording findings in a structured spreadsheet; and tracking your volunteer hours. This role is ideal for someone with strong research skills, a keen eye for detail, and an interest in community-driven planning. It offers valuable experience in nonprofit fundraising and prospect research, with flexible hours and opportunities for recognition and professional development.

Diversity Statement

Planning Aid for London’s main aim is to help support greater diversity and inclusion in the planning system. We work to empower people to have real influence over decisions about their environment and communities and welcome opportunities from anyone who would like to help us to achieve that.

Planning Aid for London is aware that discrimination based on sex, race, ability, sexuality, class, gender, religion, age, maternity, parenthood or other characteristics can be consciously or subconsciously replicated in its undertakings and seeks to eliminate any form of discrimination in its activities. To achieve this Planning Aid for London regularly reviews and monitors its work and practices.

Recruiting Multiple Volunteers

Are you passionate about community building, travel, nonprofit development, and positively impacting the world?

Bigger Than Us Residency is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers to join our team in multiple roles!

Volunteer Opportunities:

• Social Media Management: Work alongside the founder to develop and implement a social media strategy to expand the reach of the charity. (Potential to transition into a paid role once funding is secured.)

• Website Development: Lead the development and enhancement of our website, making it a powerful tool for the residency.

• Partnerships Lead: Play a key role in building relationships with funders, corporate sponsors, and nonprofit mentors. This position is crucial in securing sponsorships, in-kind donations, and guest speakers to support the residency. (Potential to transition into a paid role once funding is secured.)

• Fundraising: Collaborate with the founder to secure grants and develop a fundraising strategy for Bigger Than Us. This role is ideal for entry-level candidates or those looking to gain experience in the fundraising sector. (Potential to transition into a contracted role once funding is secured.)

We are also open to volunteers from other backgrounds not explicitly listed above. Additionally, we welcome volunteers interested in attending and assisting with the residency’s launch in Winter 2025. This will be an international opportunity, and we may be able to provide partial or full funding for travel based on volunteer time and role.

To get a sense of who we are and what we do, please visit our website (still in development). We aim to make history as the first retreat-style non-profit residency dedicated to supporting leaders focused on helping BAME communities worldwide.

How to Apply:
Please submit a brief blurb explaining why you’d like to volunteer and which role you're applying for when completing the quick apply.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Do you enjoying talking with people and helping them based on your life experiences?

Are you able to volunteer a few hours a week?

Yes? We’d love to hear from you.

What is knus?

knus is the UK’s first free, confidential, mental health peer support and coaching online chat service. knus offers mental health educational plans, relaxation experiences and live workshops.

What does knus mean? 'hug' in Danish.

Here’s some further information on what’s needed:

Are you over 18 and living in the UK?

You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.

Do you have a laptop?

A laptop and a quiet space to volunteer is essential.

How much time can you give?

A minimum of 3+ hours per week is required. We are flexible and like to work around you.

Do you like to learn?

We provide training for all volunteers that join us. Our peer support training is CPD accredited.  20-25 hours of volunteering training is required and is self led online.

If you’re interested head over to our website and we can have a chat or apply here.

Please note - all successful volunteers are required to donate the cost price of £20.60 for an Enhanced DBS check.  If you've got a current Enhanced DBS on the update service, this cost will not apply.

You must be a UK resident to apply for this role.

Summary

Supporting young people in leading activities and mentoring support by providing a listening ear and practical support and guidance.

Detailed description

You’ll find plenty of ways to use your listening skills as well as being a first point of advice for practical concerns that young people face or for supporting them in fun and exciting activities and games. We have our Youth Sessions based in Watford, Hatfield and Cheshunt.

Mondays: 
Cheshunt (Location to be disclosed after interview)
4.30pm to 6pm
Young Asylum Seekers support

Tuesdays
YMCA Orbital Community HUB
Haines Way, Watford, WD25 7QU
10 - 16 ages (19 with SEND)
6:30pm till 8pm
Open during half term

Wednesdays: 
Jim Macdonald Centre
9 - 13 ages - 4:30pm till 6pm
13 - 16 ages - 6:30pm till 8pm
Open during half term

Thursdays:
The Hive, Jim Macdonald Centre
11 - 17 ages - 4pm till 6pm
Term time only

You will be:

Supporting youth work activities and workshops

Supervising young people in discussion sessions

Building positive relationships with young people

Working with other staff to plan and evaluate activities by gaining feedback

The application process is simple - please submit an initial enquiries form by clicking on the below link with your details and ensure you let us know that you saw our advert on the CharityJob website and we will get in touch to discuss next steps. Following a brief discussion we will ask you to fill in a few more details, carry out an informal interview and apply for a DBS check as well as requesting details of two referees.

We also provide full training and support throughout your journey and you will have access to events and celebrations throughout the year!

We look forward to welcoming you to be a part of the One YMCA Family!

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!

Do you want to see more happiness and kindness in the world? We’re looking for dynamic Volunteers to be part of creating exactly that!

About the Role:

Our volunteers bring people together for shared online learning experiences, based on positive psychology, that boost the wellbeing of everyone involved.

- The amazing 6-week Happiness Habits Course is designed to be run by pairs of volunteers.  It features expert videos, science-backed exercises and the chance to form meaningful connections. Our course has been specially designed to gather the insights of the world's leading experts on six fundamental aspects of a happy and meaningful life: Gratitude, Self-Care, Relationships, Resilience, Kindness, and Meaning. It is a very impactful (many say life-changing) experience.

- Alternatively, you can get involved by supporting a Monthly Group, bringing like-minded people together to learn evidence-based tools for creating a happier and more meaningful life. Explore the monthly themes and encourage people to set personal actions towards happiness, that support both themselves and others.

Volunteering with Action for Happiness is a path of action that consistently feels like you are making a difference in the world. You don’t have to be an expert - or be happy all the time. If you are a warm and enthusiastic person that is more than enough to get started.

Why Volunteer with Us?

Do something that matters: spreading happiness and witnessing people transform for the better is a huge source of meaning.

Grow your skills: inspiring others, learning together and reinforcing your own happiness skills all contribute to personal growth.

Build community: meeting like-minded people, building lasting friendships and belonging to a global community contributing to a better future for all.

How do I know it’s right for me?

Try out free VOLUNTEER TRAINING via the Action For Happiness website and decide for yourself.

We've designed it especially to help you answer questions like this as it explains thoroughly what being a volunteer involves and helps you reflect on your readiness.

What is the time commitment?

You'll need to set aside a couple of hours for the training initially and a few more for planning your course or group and connecting with your co-volunteer. Then you'll need a couple of hours per session for facilitating (x6 weekly sessions for a course, or x1 session per month for a group). 

- Apply today! Together, we can inspire change that ripples out through people’s lives, communities and the world.
 

About Kith & Kids
We provide activities, opportunities, information and support for people with a learning disability or autism, their parents and siblings.
For all our projects and activities we are dependent on volunteers.

ELSP shop volunteers
Flexible timings, 4-hour time slots

We are currently looking for energetic and enthusiastic volunteers to join us in our boutique charity shop in Enfield, EN2.

Volunteers have a fantastic opportunity to help shape our members work experience placements within the shop.  You will support our members will all aspects of working in a charity shop, including using the till and customer service and spend time with them to review the skills they have learnt at the end of each shift.

What you'll do
At the shop you will be paired with one of our members with a learning disability or autism. You'll support and encourage them to complete the job/role they have been given for that specific day and encourage them to practice their social skills by interacting with the public in a polite and friendly manner.

You will also encourage them to work as part of a team and engage socially with staff and volunteers present in the shop.  You will build their confidence and encourage them to take on new challenges.

Requirements

What you need
You do not need experience. Full disability awareness training will be provided before you begin volunteering with us.
The only requirements we ask of you are enthusiasm, energy and to be open-minded.
Minimum age for volunteers is 20.

How much time?
There is no minimum commitment, however the more time you spend with our members the more you get to know them and can better support them.

What we can offer you
We can reimburse your travel expenses.
We'll also provide excellent training before you start and lots of helpful support.

By volunteering at our shop you will also:

• Use and develop your skills
• Learn something new!
• Increase your confidence
• Meet new people and make friends
• Gain experience for (other) work
• Give something back to the community
• Do something fun and satisfying in your spare time
• Challenge yourself
   

What about training?
Volunteers must attend training and complete a free DBS check before you begin volunteering.

This is a great opportunity to get to know everyone at Kith & Kids: your fellow volunteers, some of our members you will be working with, and gives the opportunity to develop some new skills and expand your knowledge in our workshops.

Topics we cover include:

• Communication
• Autism
• Supporting emotions
• Safeguarding
• Creativity & Participation
• Epilepsy
   

When do I need to come?

Volunteers must attend training and complete a free DBS check before taking part.

We'll be running face-to-face training in north London starting on the 24th May with lots of other dates to choose from.

In the meantime, we'll be meeting volunteers online from mid-April.

Training will take place in North London – once we have met you online for a chat, we will send you confirmation of our training venue details.