Volunteer roles

The Elizabeth Fry Charity provides support to women, mostly on licence from prison, who have a range of complex needs. Through our work, we help women to begin to address the issues they face, improve their lives and reduce the likelihood of further involvement in the criminal justice system.

The Elizabeth Fry Charity provides a 25-bed Approved Premises in Reading, enabling women to access accommodation, support, and monitoring.

As the Charity continues to grow and develop its services, we are seeking to strengthen our Board by recruiting a Trustee with finance, accounting, or audit experience.

To achieve our strategic plans, we require strong financial oversight to support sustainable growth, ensuring robust financial management and governance across all activities. We are therefore particularly interested in individuals who can bring:

• Professional experience in finance, accountancy, or audit (chartered or qualified desirable)
• Experience in financial governance, risk management, and internal controls
• Ability to interpret financial statements and support budget setting and monitoring
• Strategic insight into financial planning and sustainability within a charitable or regulated environment

Trustees, both individually and acting together as the Board, use their skills, knowledge, expertise, and contacts to govern the Charity, safeguard its assets and apply them as efficiently and effectively as possible to further its charitable objectives.

In this role, the Trustee with finance expertise will support the Board and Senior Management Team in maintaining strong financial oversight, contributing to strategic decision-making, and ensuring the Charity’s resources are used effectively to maximise impact.

We are interested in hearing from anyone who is passionate about the work we do and feels they can contribute to the success of the Charity.

The Board of Trustees meets five times annually at Elizabeth Fry House in Reading. Trustees are invited to participate in either our Finance or People and Safeguarding Committee, both of which meet four times a year. Additionally, Trustees conduct scheduled visits to the Approved Premises throughout the year.

About INQUEST

INQUEST is the only charity in England and Wales providing expertise on state-related deaths and the subsequent investigation and inquest process. For over 40 years, we have worked alongside bereaved families, campaigners, and legal professionals to advocate for accountability and meaningful change. Our casework team provides specialist advice to families who have been traumatically bereaved by state-related deaths involving police, prisons, mental health settings, and other forms of detention. We also work closely with the Inquest Lawyers Group. Through dedicated research and monitoring, we identify and keep track of key issues and missed opportunities to prevent state-related deaths. We aim to put the voices and experiences of bereaved families at the heart of everything we do.

INQUEST is a small organisation with a fast-paced and engaging environment. You can find more information about us and our work on our website.

About the role

We are recruiting two administration volunteers to support our casework team. Volunteers will be expected to:

· Provide administrative support with case file management;

· Communicate with lawyers for case updates;

· Carry out research on relevant state bodies, such as specific prisons;

· Help identify, research and monitor key issues and emerging concerns in relation to contentious state-related deaths.

What we offer

· Specialist training and guidance from the casework team;

· Regular mentoring and wellbeing support from staff;

· Opportunity to develop research, writing, and public engagement skills;

· Opportunity to attend legal meetings and inquest hearings;

· Networking opportunities with INQUEST staff, lawyers, campaigners, and community organisers;

· Reimbursement of expenses (travel costs and £7.50/day for lunch).

Desirable knowledge and skills:

· Interest in, and knowledge of, INQUEST’s work and values;

· Willingness to learn about the criminal justice system, inquests, mental health, abolition, and human rights;

· Commitment to social justice, antiracism, and holding the state to account;

· Good written and verbal communication skills;

· Good organisation and administrative skills, including IT literacy;

· Ability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced team;

· Some experience carrying out desk research.

We recognise that applicants can gain valuable experience in a range of contexts, and that the above skills need not be related to formal education or employment. We strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience of coronial and other state systems, and those representing the diverse communities with which we work.

We particularly encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented, disadvantaged, and racialised communities.

We require that individuals with lived experience of the coronial system, who have experienced the loss of a loved one, apply at a minimum of two years post-inquest so that we can provide appropriate care and support for staff needs.

Expected commitment

Volunteers are expected to commit 1 day a week for 6 months, with the possibility of extending further.

Please note that this opportunity requires you to attend our offices in Finsbury Park, London N4 

Join FARA, a charity with over 30 years of experience and 39 charity shops across London. Our FARA Fulham shop is looking for a creative and enthusiastic Social Media Instagram Volunteer to help us keep our Instagram content fresh, engaging, and up to date.

By volunteering with us, you’ll directly support our mission, help promote reuse through donation and recycling, and contribute to a positive experience for our customers and online community.

The Role:

As a volunteer, your responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

• Creating Instagram content, including posts and stories
• Capturing photos and videos that highlight our activities, updates, and events
• Showcasing donation appeals in a clear and appealing way
• Helping maintain a consistent and on-brand social media presence
• Monitoring basic engagement (likes, comments, and shares)
• Greeting and assisting customers when required

The Volunteer:

We’re looking for someone who:

• Knowledge of using Instagram and current social media trends
• Is creative, visually focused, and confident taking photos or short videos
• Is friendly, approachable, enthusiastic, and able to communicate our mission online
• Is reliable and able to work as part of a team
• Has experience in social media content creation is a bonus, but not essential

What’s in it for You?

At FARA, our shops are run by welcoming and collaborative teams. You’ll gain hands-on experience in social media content creation while working alongside supportive colleagues. Full training is provided, and we offer a positive, inclusive, and safe volunteering environment.

Your Time:

Our shop operates from 10:00 to 18:00, and we’re looking for someone who can volunteer for a minimum of 4 hours either in the morning or afternoon, whenever you are available in arrangement with the shop manager.

FARA is committed to creating an inclusive environment. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application process, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

Maintenance Volunteer

About the Role

As a Maintenance Volunteer, you will help maintain and improve the homes and environments of people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities. Your support will help create safe, comfortable, and welcoming spaces where people can thrive.

This role involves practical tasks such as painting, decorating, gardening, and general DIY. Please note that electrical, plumbing, and gas work are not included in this volunteer role.

 The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

• Improve the appearance and comfort of people's homes.
• Create safe and welcoming environments.
• Support people to feel proud of where they live.
• Enhance the wellbeing of the people we support.

 What You Will Do

• Assist with painting and decorating projects.
• Carry out basic DIY tasks and minor repairs.
• Help with gardening and outdoor maintenance.
• Support with assembling furniture and equipment.
• Follow health and safety guidance at all times.
• Report any maintenance concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Practical and reliable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Happy to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

 Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Complete volunteer induction and training.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and health and safety procedures.

Interested?

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

By volunteering with SeeAbility, you can help create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered.

Thank you for your interest in supporting the work of Portsmouth Cathedral through membership of its well-established Finance (incorporating Audit and Risk) Committee. 

We are looking for up to three candidates who have:governance and committee experience at senior level; relevant and recent financial or fundraising experience; and/or a track record in accountancy, investments, endowments, trading subsidiaries, audit and risk. In addition to sound interpersonal skills, they should be competent and able to exercise governance in a charity organisation 

We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion within our Committees. We welcome applications from anyone regardless of disability, ethnicity, heritage, gender, sexuality, social economic background, faith or other difference.
 

Volunteer Gym Buddy

 About the Role

As a Volunteer Gym Buddy, you will support people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities to attend and enjoy gym sessions. You will provide encouragement, help build confidence, and support people to achieve their fitness goals.

No gym expertise is required – just a positive attitude and a willingness to support others.

 The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help people to:

• Improve their health and wellbeing.
• Build confidence and independence.
• Access fitness opportunities in their community.
• Achieve personal goals in a supportive environment.

 What You Will Do

• Attend gym sessions with the person you support.
• Provide encouragement and motivation.
• Help people feel comfortable and confident in the gym.
• Promote independence and choice.
• Follow SeeAbility's safeguarding and health and safety procedures.
• Report any concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Friendly and reliable.
• Patient and supportive.
• Good communicators.
• Enthusiastic about helping others.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Experience of autism, sight loss, or learning disabilities is helpful but not essential.

Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Complete volunteer training and induction.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and procedures.

Interested?

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

Volunteer Cook

 About the Role

We are looking for enthusiastic Volunteer Cooks to support people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss by helping to prepare and cook nutritious, enjoyable meals. This rewarding role provides an opportunity to share your passion for food, encourage independence, and help create positive social experiences through cooking and shared mealtimes.

 The Difference You Will Make

As a Volunteer Cook, you will help people develop practical cooking skills, build confidence, and enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals. Your support can promote independence, social inclusion, and wellbeing while creating opportunities for people to learn, connect, and enjoy new experiences.

 What You Will Do

• Support people to prepare and cook simple meals and snacks.
• Encourage participation in food preparation and kitchen activities.
• Promote safe food handling and good kitchen hygiene practices.
• Assist with meal planning and shopping lists where appropriate.
• Help create a welcoming and enjoyable cooking environment.
• Support individuals to develop confidence and independence in the kitchen.
• Work alongside staff to ensure activities are safe, enjoyable, and inclusive.
• Assist with clearing up and maintaining a clean kitchen area after sessions.

 What We Are Looking For

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. You do not need to be a professional chef—just someone who enjoys cooking and supporting others.

We are looking for people who are:

• Friendly, patient, and reliable.
• Passionate about cooking and healthy eating.
• Good communicators and supportive team players.
• Respectful of diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiastic about helping people learn new skills.
• Able to encourage and motivate others in a positive way.

 Requirements

Successful volunteers will be required to:

• Complete an enhanced DBS check.
• Provide two satisfactory references.
• Complete some online training
• Follow SeeAbility's policies and procedures, including safeguarding, food hygiene, and health and safety requirements.

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a specialist charity supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious lives. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve their goals, develop independence, and be part of their community.

Volunteers play a vital role in helping us provide meaningful opportunities, develop life skills, and support the people we work with to achieve their aspirations.

Chair of Advisory Board – cultural leadership, strategic insight, advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration

Lancaster Arts is a dynamic and ambitious combined arts organisation, embedded within Lancaster University and supported as an NPO by Arts Council England. Its programme spans contemporary performance, music, visual art, commissions, artist residencies, Creative Gatherings and public programmes across the Nuffield Theatre, the Great Hall, the Peter Scott Gallery, campus spaces and locations across the wider region. Almost half of its programme takes place outside its venues, often in unexpected places including natural settings, community centres, carparks and historic buildings.

With a long-established reputation for the creation, development and presentation of cutting-edge contemporary arts, Lancaster Arts brings together artists, researchers, students, communities and audiences through work that is socially engaged, internationally relevant and rooted in the organisation’s vision of a world where social and environmental justice drives change.

Lancaster Arts is now seeking a new Chair of the Lancaster Arts Board (LAB) to provide strong, collaborative and values-led leadership. LAB is an Advisory Board, which provides strategic guidance, advocacy and critical support, helping Lancaster Arts strengthen its visibility, connections and influence across Lancaster University, the cultural sector and civic life, while supporting the organisation to remain responsive, resilient and relevant in a complex environment.

To succeed in this role, you’ll bring:

• A strong track record of leadership in the cultural sector or a closely related field
• A strategic outlook and the ability to navigate the intersection of Higher Education, the arts and wider civic and cultural relationships
• Skilled facilitation and communication, with the confidence to convene diverse stakeholders and support inclusive, purposeful Board discussion

You will also share Lancaster Arts’ commitment to inclusion, environmental responsibility and socially engaged practice, and bring the credibility, networks and enthusiasm to act as a public advocate and connector for Lancaster Arts.

Please see the candidate pack for full details.

• Closing date: Thursday 13th August 2026
• Interviews with Lancaster Arts: from 1st September 2026 onwards
• Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by EOD on 20th August prior to shortlist submission on 21st August.

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

Charisma is committed to inclusive and accessible recruitment processes. If you have any reasonable adjustments or wish to apply for this role under the Disability Confident Scheme, please contact our Operations Team. Charisma will ensure all candidates who disclose that they wish to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and that meet the minimum criteria for the role will receive an opportunity to interview with the Charisma Consultant representing the vacancy.

Resource Room Admin Support Volunteer

BucksVision is looking for volunteers to provide administrative support during Resource Room appointments in Milton Keynes. This role helps ensure appointments run smoothly and that important information is accurately recorded while members explore aids and equipment that may assist them with sight loss.

This is a flexible role based in the Milton Keynes Resource Room. Appointments usually take place on Wednesdays or Fridays, and volunteering can be arranged around individual availability.

As a volunteer, you will support Resource Room appointments in person, take notes while members meet with a BucksVision volunteer, record information about the aids, equipment, and support discussed, and provide general administrative assistance related to the appointments when needed.

The role requires good organisational and note-taking skills, the ability to handle confidential information with discretion, strong listening skills, attention to detail, basic administrative and computer skills, and a friendly and reliable approach.

Volunteering in this position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to people living with sight loss, meet new people, gain experience in an administrative support role, learn more about the aids and equipment available to support visual impairment, and build confidence while developing valuable new skills.

**Are you a master of words and persuasion?**
Ready to turn your writing skills into real impact? Join KUWFC as our Bid Writer Volunteer and help us unlock funding, score big wins, and supercharge opportunities for women and girls in football!

**What you’ll do:**
- Hunt for grants, sponsorships, and funding that can transform our club

- Write magnetic bids and proposals that grab attention and win support

- Team up with club leaders, coaches, and players to gather stories and stats

- Stay sharp on deadlines, trends, and opportunities

- Be the driving force behind our growth and success!

**Who you are:**
- A passionate writer, researcher, and storyteller—experienced or eager to learn

- Laser-focused, organised, and proactive

- Fired up about women’s football, equality, and community change

- Ready to volunteer up to 3 flexible hours a week

- Fundraising or charity experience? That’s a bonus!

**What’s in it for you?**
- Real impact—your words help us secure funds and change lives

- Boost your CV and build your fundraising portfolio

- Work with a vibrant, supportive team

- Gain hands-on experience in sports and nonprofit fundraising

- References and credits to power your next move

- Be part of something BIG for women and girls in South London!

**Ready to help us hit new heights?**
Send your CV and a quick note about your experience 

**Kenningwell United WFC welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds. Step up, make a difference, and help us grow the game for every girl and woman!**

Arts and Crafts Volunteer

About the Role

We are looking for enthusiastic and creative Arts and Crafts Volunteers to support people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to take part in enjoyable and meaningful arts and crafts activities. This rewarding role provides an opportunity to share your creativity, build confidence in others, and help create a fun and inclusive environment where everyone can express themselves.

The Difference You Will Make

As an Arts and Crafts Volunteer, you will help people develop new skills, express their creativity, increase their confidence, and build social connections. Your support can make a significant difference by reducing isolation, encouraging participation, and helping individuals achieve their personal goals while having fun.

 What You Will Do

• Support and encourage people to participate in arts and crafts activities.
• Help set up and tidy away materials and equipment.
• Assist individuals to complete creative projects at their own pace.
• Create a welcoming, inclusive, and positive atmosphere.
• Encourage social interaction and conversation during sessions.
• Support staff to ensure activities are safe and enjoyable.
• Share ideas for new arts and crafts activities where appropriate.

 What We Are Looking For

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. You do not need to be an artist or have professional experience—just enthusiasm and a willingness to help others.

We are looking for people who are:

• Friendly, patient, and reliable.
• Creative and enthusiastic about arts and crafts.
• Good listeners with effective communication skills.
• Respectful of diversity and inclusion.
• Able to work as part of a team.
• Passionate about helping people achieve their potential.

Requirements

Successful volunteers will be required to:

• Complete an enhanced DBS check.
• Provide two satisfactory references.
• Complete some online training
• Follow SeeAbility's policies and procedures, including safeguarding and health and safety requirements.

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a specialist charity supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious lives. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve their goals, develop independence, and be part of their community.

Volunteers play a vital role in helping us deliver meaningful opportunities and experiences for the people we support.

**�� Social Media Volunteer Wanted — Join the Heart of Women’s Football! ��**
**Kenningwell United Women’s Football Club (KUWFC)**
Remote / South London

**Are you a social media superstar?**
Do you scroll, post, and create non-stop? Are you passionate about women’s football and telling stories that inspire? KUWFC needs YOU to help us shine online and share the excitement of our club with the world!

**This is your backstage pass:**
- Capture the thrill of our matches, the personalities of our players, and the buzz of club life with vibrant posts, reels, and videos

- Share live updates, exclusive behind-the-scenes moments, and uplifting stories

- Ignite conversations and unite our fans—bring everyone closer to the action

- Work with players, coaches, and our media team to brainstorm and schedule awesome content

- Experiment and track what works—help us grow our reach and impact in creative ways!

**Who should apply?**
- You LIVE for social media—Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, all the platforms!

- You’re bursting with creativity and energy

- Confident communicator and collaborative team player
- Passionate about women’s football, empowerment, and community

- Ready to volunteer up to 3 flexible hours a week

- Bonus points for Canva, video editing, or analytics skills!

**Why join KUWFC?**

- Show off your creativity and help shape our club’s online voice

- Get real-world experience in sports and media

- Your work will be seen by thousands—build your portfolio and reputation

- Be part of a supportive, fun, and welcoming team

- Get references and credits for your next step (study, career, or both!)

- Make a real difference for women’s football in South London

**Ready to level up your social media game AND support women’s football?**

Send your CV and a short note about your experience 

**Kenningwell United WFC welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds. Help us tell our story, inspire the next generation, and grow the game for every girl and woman in South London!**

Are you a big football fan who enjoys playing football as well as watching it?

We are looking for volunteer football enthusiasts to both play football and enjoy talking all things football with someone with learning disabilities and or autism.  As a volunteer you will need to be able to volunteer for a couple of hours each week.

What does the role involve?

Our football volunteers will enjoy spending time having a kick about, perhaps watching a game on TV and perhaps having a post-match discussion. Trips to watch the odd live game would also be an enjoyable experience for the people we support.

Skills required: -

• To be kind, empathetic and friendly

• To have a good sense of humour and love to chat

• Good communication skills

• Positive & supporting attitude

• To be punctual and reliable

• Commitment to inclusion

• To be able to deal with information in line with our data protection and confidentiality procedures

• Becoming one of our football volunteers will provide opportunities for those we support to increase their confidence, boost their mood and keep fit. 

• Training and ongoing support from SeeAbility staff.

• The chance to develop new skills in accessible communication and inclusive practice.

• Being part of a warm, welcoming community that values every individual.

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses.

• This is a fantastic opportunity to give something positive back to society and have a direct impact on people’s lives. Being a football volunteer is a great way to get out and about, exercise, and help others

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Volunteer: Reading Volunteer

Hours: Flexible, as agreed

Do you love getting lost in a good book? Are you patient, kind, and passionate about helping others enjoy stories and conversation? Join us as a Reading Volunteer at SeeAbility and help make reading fun, inclusive, and meaningful for people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss.

What You Will Be Doing

As a Reading Volunteer, you will spend time reading with and supporting people we support to enjoy books, stories, magazines, poetry, and conversation. This could include:

• Reading aloud in a relaxed and friendly way
• Supporting people to choose books and topics they enjoy
• Encouraging communication, confidence, and imagination
• Sharing laughter, conversation, and meaningful one-to-one time
• Helping create a calm and enjoyable reading experience

Whether it’s a favourite childhood story, an audiobook, or discovering something new together, your time will help bring books to life.

The Difference You Will Make

For many people we support, reading and shared storytelling can reduce isolation, build confidence, improve communication, and create joyful moments of connection.

Your support could help someone:

• Feel more included and valued
• Develop confidence and social skills
• Discover new interests and experiences
• Enjoy companionship and meaningful interaction
• Experience the comfort and fun that stories can bring

Sometimes, simply having someone patient and understanding to spend time with can make a huge difference.

Skills Required

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Friendly, patient, and reliable
• Empathic, understanding, and encouraging
• Passionate about books, stories, and conversation
• Good listeners with a positive attitude
• Comfortable supporting people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss

No previous experience is required — just enthusiasm, kindness, and a love of reading.

Requirements

• Complete a DBS check
• Provide references
• Complete online training provided by SeeAbility

We will support you throughout the process.

The Benefits of Volunteering

• Gaining valuable experience and skills
• Meeting new people and becoming part of a supportive team
• Making a genuine difference in someone’s life
• Building confidence and communication skills
• Sharing your love of books and storytelling
• Receiving training and ongoing support
• We cover travel expenses up to 20 miles