Volunteer Roles in Europe

Are you a good listener? Do you enjoy meeting new people? Are you sociable with good interpersonal skills? Could you support people living with a challenging terminal illness? 

Our Association Visitor role might be the right role for you. 

We ask for a few hours each week to visit people in their own homes or to keep in touch by phone, email, video, text or WhatsApp

By becoming an Association Visitor and donating your time, energy and skills, you can make a real difference to the lives of people affected by Motor Neurone Disease. 

The MND Association was founded in 1979. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We also fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.

“I am extremely honoured to be a volunteer for the MND Association. The most rewarding thing is knowing that I have helped people to access the services, equipment and support they need.” Jo-Ann, Volunteer

Trustee Vacancy, Midlands

Voluntary Role. Reasonable travel and other expenses reimbursed.

First time trustees are very welcome to apply! Full training given

Help us deliver our Vision of a Midlands Region where no one goes hungry and where children don’t go to school on an empty stomach

Last year, our food helped over 500 frontline charities and community groups across the Midlands to provide 13 million meals.

FareShare Midlands (FSM) is the region’s largest food redistribution charity. We take good-to-eat surplus food from the food industry and get it to our Members - frontline charities and community groups all over the Midlands. We turn an environmental problem into a social solution.

Last year we redistributed almost 5,794 tonnes of food from our warehouses in Birmingham, Leicester and Nottingham. It is sorted and stored by our dedicated teams of staff and volunteers, and then redistributed to around 800 Members including food pantries and cafes, homeless shelters and drop-in centres.

These local organisations turn the food into food parcels, affordable shopping and delicious meals for people of all ages. As well as food, our Members provide vital support to families and the elderly, many of whom are facing challenging circumstances and living in poverty.

Last year our food reached more than 83,000 vulnerable people every week, providing 13 million meals. At the same time, we are growing our Employability Programmes to help people gain work experience, skills and jobs.

Our Purpose at FareShare Midlands is to Fight Hunger, Tackle Food Waste and to Create Opportunities.

The Role

Our Trustees set the strategic direction for the organisation, ensuring alignment to our values and are responsible for setting organisational strategy, policy, defining goals, agreeing the financial plan and evaluating performance.

We are looking for you to bring your life experience, insight, expertise and skills together with the enthusiasm and commitment to helping to reduce food insecurity and unnecessary food waste. You will have a passion for the work we do, have an understanding of poverty and inequality and a commitment to our values around a fairer and more equal society.

We welcome applicants who have little or no Trustee experience but a strong desire to be part of a force for good and helping to create lasting change.  An inquisitive mind and confidence to interrogate information provided to you by the Leadership Team.

It is imperative for us to have a board which reflects a range of backgrounds and identities and, most importantly, represents the people we exist to support, as we believe that such increased diversity will improve our creativity and decision making.

We welcome applications from anyone enthusiastic and interested about the work we do and a desire to help us create lasting change through the work that we do. We are particularly keen to talk to people with experience in; Finance, Fundraising; Food Industry; Employability; Marketing, PR or Communications; Business Development and IT; Transport/logistics and Warehousing and distribution.

You will work with our existing board of trustees and our Chief Executive who are ably supported by a Senior Management team as well as our staff and volunteers who all share a passion to make a difference for those who need the food we distribute.

The Commitment

The trustee board meets quarterly (January, April, July and October). Meetings are usually on a Saturday morning and last for 2-3 hours, often remotely. Plus one strategy day/board development day per year. Generally, board members have the opportunity to be part of or chair a committee too.

To Apply:

If you feel you have the passion and interest for the role we would love to hear from you. Please send an up-to-date CV or LinkedIn profile along with a supporting statement stating how your skills and experience would add value to the Board, as well as why you are interested in joining us. 

Do let us know if there is anything we can do to support your application, and if you have any individual needs or need any adjustments. 

The service supports people living with memory loss and dementia who have been identified as isolated, living in the community. Volunteers are matched with an older person who would like a befriender to provide social contact and company by visiting them in their home.

What you will get out of it?

• You'll be making a difference to the lives of older people.
• You'll gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact on older people’s lives.
• You'll have an opportunity to build confidence and skills in engaging with people.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF GOAL YC – TRUSTEES INCLUDING CHAIR OF TRUSTEES 

We are currently recruiting volunteer trustees who are passionate about supporting young people. 

Gospel Oak Action Link Youth Club (GOALYC) is a Camden based Charity providing at no cost to our users, a rich variety of sports, music, education and other activities to mostly disadvantaged young people in the Gospel Oak area. We offer training and employment opportunities for older teenage members, helping to boost their skills, self-confidence and aspirations, regardless of background or learning abilities. 

Our Trustees will guide the charity's direction, upkeep, and policies, making key decisions that create a positive difference to our youth. This involves: 

• Overall strategy decisions. 

• Organise fundraising. 

• Liaising with our partner organisation, QCCA. 

• Reviewing grant applications and reports to funders. 

• Board Meetings three to four times a year. 

Appointment is subject to a DBS criminal records check, references and board approval. 

Commitment: Part-time/voluntary (at least 5 hours a month)

Inspire is a London based careers and education based charity focussed on empowering young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to understand more about the world of work.

OUR MISSION

We believe all young people should have access to engaging, informative and inspirational advice on careers & the world of work. We inspire young people across London and beyond, through interactive programmes in schools, workplace visits, and face to face sessions with volunteers from our wide range of business partners. Our work ranges from students in primary school to young people with additonal needss.

Across our Work Related Learning Team, some of our programmes include:

• Employability Days (BOSS Day, You're Hired, Aspirations Day, Careers Day)
• Enterprise Days
• Financial Literacy sessions
• Mock Interviews
• Mentoring
• World Of Work (WoW) Week 
• Innovation Weeks
• Options Days

We are always recruiting volunteers, please see our attatched opportunities for 2024-25, get in contact to support!

Working closely with the Membership and Information Coordinator, this role involves meeting with community food members to review their requirements, and ensure that the food they receive from FareShare is being stored and distributed in accordance with FareShare regulations. The role includes travelling to CFM premises across Greater Manchester and carrying out office based administration.
 

Where? Maynard House, New Smithfield Market. Openshaw M11 2WJ

Hours? Monday to Friday. Start times between 09:00 -10:00 for a minimum four hour shift

How often? Volunteers are typically involved for one shift a week.

Support? The role is supported by the FareShare Membership Coordinator.

What will I be doing?

Arranging meetings with members by telephone or email.

Carrying out the offsite meetings, including completing a checklist and taking note of customer queries or concerns.

Following up on any required actions with the customer, and internally with the FareShare Membership Coordinator.

Inputting/updating data on to the database.

Answering phones and taking messages.

Completing and filing all paperwork accurately

Our requirements

Car user (travelling throughout the Greater Manchester boroughs). Clean Driving licence or max 3 points

ABOUT FARESHARE

FareShare is the UK’s national network of charitable food redistributors, made up of 18 independent organisations. Together, we take good quality surplus food from right across the food industry and get it to nearly 8,500 frontline charities and community groups, (CFMs), including school breakfast clubs, older people’s lunch clubs, homeless shelters, and community cafes. Every week we provide enough food to create almost one million meals for vulnerable people.

FareShare Greater Manchester has been run by EMERGE 3Rs since 2008. EMERGE is a charity that has been active in the 3Rs (reduce, reuse and recycle) since 1996. From our regional centre based on New Smithfield Market we redistribute food to over 250 CFMs.

Strong interpersonal skills, ability to communicate with diverse communities

IT Skills

Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (this qualification can be completed at FareShare).

Ability to prioritise and organise duties

Familiarity with answering phone and taking messages when required.

Data inputting using Excel and the FareShare in house database

Training

A full induction followed by a ‘Taster’ session progressing to ongoing training for the role, by on-the-job training and e-learning.

What you can expect from the volunteer role

Out of pocket expenses reimbursed – up to £6 for travel and up to £3 for lunch upon completion of a 4 hour shift

Mileage expenses reimbursed for off-site visits

Experience of working in a team

A reference after 3 months if applicable

Knowledge of the importance and benefits of addressing food surplus and recycling.

You will be required to complete introductory sessions before you are confirmed in the role.

Join/ help us as Grant and Fundraising advisor/officer. By helping us prepare our essential documents to approach donors and apply for grants you will enable us to focus on what truly matters: making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

What we do

Setting up this nonprofit  is on an exciting journey to expand our impact and establish a strong presence in the UK. Our dedicated team of volunteers is passionate about empowering young girls and women through education. Since 2021 we have created a network of qualified volunteers who have taught girls, boys and women in Afghanistan in various subjects. we have run workshops, seminars and supported socially and economically disadvanteged students to have access to education.  As we have  witness the impact of our work we wish to set up a nonprofit organisation to support our efforts and expand our impact. 

What we wish to achieve

We are aiming to position ourselves to raise funds and apply for our first grants. We need someone with expertise in strategy and planning, as well as someone who can assist in preparing the necessary materials to approach donors and organizations for grants.

Help us with one or more of the following deliverabels:

- Fundraising strategy

- Business plans

- Activity Report

- Project proposals and bids

- Writing grant applications and mailshots
- Utilising direct mailing to reach potential and current donors
- Recruit, organise, and manage volunteers to support fundraising and project execution
 

Your Impact

This isn’t just about raising funds—it’s about ensuring we can continue providing vital education and support to those who need it most, whether it’s teaching young girls in Afghanistan, empowering disadvantaged individuals.

We believe wholeheartedly in the power of our mission, and with your support, COEMPOWERED can continue to grow, reach new heights, and impact even more people. Your contribution will be invaluable in building a strong future for the organisation, and we’re excited to have you join us in this important journey.

Responsibilities:

• Lead a 2-hour weekly session during term time, following YoCO’s unique programme: ME (self-awareness), US (group dynamics), and THEM (community & global causes).
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and fun environment, supporting the personal development of all group members.
• Plan fundraising activities alongside your group and the YoCO support team, and attend events (some may be on weekends).
• Lead the group on a 5-day UK residential trip organized by YoCO.
• Regularly update YoCO staff on the group’s progress and address any issues.
• Attend an induction with the Group Manager, complete a DBS check, and receive First Aid and Safeguarding training (funded by YoCO).

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Passionate and Motivated: Enthusiastic about working with vulnerable young people, with a commitment to motivating and inspiring them to reach their full potential. Able to act as a positive role model and build strong, trusting relationships.
• Strong Communication: Excellent listening skills and a non-judgmental attitude.
• DBS Check: Must have or be able to obtain a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Travel Ready: Willing to participate in a 5-day UK residential trip and able to commute to Wallingford
• Team Player: Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team.

Note: Expenses will be covered.

Bramley Elderly Action (including BEA and OWLS) is looking to recruit a Chair of Money Committee with finance expertise to lead their Committee and bring skills to support the further development of the Charity and its positive impact on older people in their communities.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 7th October.

Location: Northwest Leeds 

Time commitment: c.1-2 days a month

Who we are.

Set-up in 1994 by local people, BEA/OWLS is a community-based charity with a small staff team and 200 volunteers, that works with a range of partner organisations, both voluntary and statutory, to improve health, increase happiness, and reduce social isolation and loneliness in older people.

At a strategic level, we seek to influence local and city-wide policy development as active members of the community and Leeds’ third sector. We share good practice whilst at the same time take learning from others.

About the role

The Chair of the Money Committee will bring their finance experience to strengthen the technical capability of the committee. As well as chairing the Committee meetings, Committee Chairs will lead on the strategic development of key finance issues.

Who we are looking for.

Applying your background in finance, you will have the capability to become a Committee Chair and lead the Money Committee. You should also be able to think strategically, challenge constructively and listen to others to ensure that we are inclusive and all voices are heard.

Most importantly, you will be a local person who is committed to helping older people live happy lives in our community. You will also have a willingness to invest the time and effort in delivering for local older people, which is important to us.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 7th October.

Make a lasting impact on future generations and your community, by becoming a governor for your local college.

Peridot Partners have partnered with the Department of Education to revolutionise the education governance sector, by appointing 137 new governors to college boards across England.

Education governors come from all backgrounds and sectors with either professional or lived experience that can help the board to make their decisions. A passion for education and future generations is a must, but you don’t need to have any experience in the education sector to become a governor.

Being an education governor or trustee is a rewarding and fulfilling venture for any of us. You don’t need to be a Chief Executive, a senior leader or even an educationalist to join the ever-growing pool of people who regularly attend board and committee meetings to influence and impact the quality of education delivered by our schools, sixth forms, further education colleges and universities. 

As an education governor, you will draw on the professional experience of your working career and your own life experiences to support and challenge the strategic direction of the organisation. You will reflect on the lessons that you have learnt through education, work and life to ask questions and understand how decisions being made on an operational level will and could impact the students and their potential for achievement.

Peridot Partners and the Department of Education are, together, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate(s) will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can see the available opportunities and register your interest. 

Help us create a world where refugees are seen for more than just a label, where their unique experiences and skills are valued o the board of The Launchpad Collective.

Location: Remote

Time commitment: 8 days per year

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 7th October.

Who we are.

The Launchpad Collective (TLC) is a newly registered charity dedicated to challenging the systems and inequalities that prevent refugee talent from being recognised and valued. We are committed to breaking down the barriers that hinder refugees and asylum seekers in the UK from accessing meaningful employment.

We connect with third parties to unlock additional employability support and push for social change. Together, we open doors so that refugees are recognised as positively enriching society.

About the role

We are now a charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) and seek to grow our Board of Trustees. We are looking for individuals with experience in Finance, HR, Communications, Senor Leadership of a company or charity and Education (ideally Higher Education or Students’ Unions). Experience with ethical organisations like B Corps would also be welcomed.

We welcome first-time Trustees and those with lived experience. We are particularly keen to appoint a Trustee based in the Midlands or North of England, as we work nationally and seek representation in these areas.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 7th October.

A bit about this role

This role is based in the Canterbury area covering postcodes CT1, CT2, CT3, CT4, CT5, CT6, ME13.

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• Planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• Keeping financial records from fundraising events
• Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Join Ardgowan Hospice as our new Chair of the Trustee Board and lead us in our mission to become the best wee hospice in Scotland, providing exceptional palliative care with love, compassion, and innovation. 

What will you be doing?

The Chair leads the Board of Trustees, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively in service of its vision and values. The Chair leads inclusively, supporting the Board’s work and providing support and challenge to the Chief Executive. The Chair is also an ambassador and figurehead for Ardgowan Hospice.

Leadership

• Be willing and able to lead the organisation in partnership with the Chief Executive.
• Support the Chief Executive by influencing our future well-being by having or developing relationships with principals in our locality in both the public and private sectors.

Clarity of Purpose

• Ensure the Board discusses and agrees on the strategy and core values of the organisation.
• Ensure that decisions advance the purpose, strategy, and values of the organisation.

Cohesive Board

• Create productive relationships with and among individual Board members.
• Create the environment for a high-performing Board team.

What are we looking for?

It’s essential for you to:

• Have a keen sense of strategic leadership and purpose.
• Have an inclusive leadership style: able to inspire and support everyone to participate on an equal footing.
• Listen and engage effectively; be comfortable with challenge and debate and able to encourage that in others while fostering a collaborative Board environment.
• Advocate; be able and willing to champion Ardgowan Hospice’s work through personal networks, social media and other channels.
• Be strongly committed to reducing health inequalities.
• Be responsive; as a small charity, things sometimes “come up” that require the Chair to advise, support or give consent to. It is, therefore, helpful to have a Chair who is available and responsive.

It’s desirable for you to:

• Be passionate about Hospice and palliative care.
• Be familiar with local health and social care networks, and have knowledge of the HSCP/health care environment.
• Have Trustee or Chair experience, but this is not essential.

What difference will you make?

As Chair of Ardgowan Hospice, you will have a profound impact on the lives of patients and families in Inverclyde by guiding our strategic vision and championing our mission to provide exceptional palliative care. Your leadership will be crucial in navigating financial challenges, spearheading a transformative capital building project, and ensuring our services reflect the dynamic and compassionate ethos of our community. Join us in this pivotal role and help shape the future of palliative care in Inverclyde.

Before you apply

Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting Ardgowan Hospice with our recruitment. 

We are asking you simply to send us a letter that introduces yourself to us, along with your CV. Within that letter, we’d like you to answer the following questions: 

1. What is it about this role that excites you? 
2. What is it about you that makes you a great candidate for this role? 
3. Why Ardgowan Hospice?

If you would like to have an informal conversation in the first instance, please contact the TrusteeWorks team to arrange it.

About The Role

Our wetland centres shape unforgettable experiences for our visitors to engage with wetland wildlife and learn more about the amazing work  WWT does to conserve wetlands and species around the world.

A good cup of tea and a relaxing snack looking over our beautiful wetlands are an important part of that experience. Plus, all the profit from our cafes and shops goes back into funding WWT projects. 

We're looking for friendly, welcoming people to help in our café and make that experience a great one.

In this role, you will be:

• Serving our visitors light meals, snacks and drinks

• Helping keeping our café tables clear, clean and free for use

• Engaging with our visitors, directing them to our seasonal highlights and daily talks, helping them to make the most of their visit

• Supporting behind-the-scenes with tasks such as washing up and sorting deliveries - keeping us on track

• Helping with food displays- helping visitors to make those tricky choices!

Our café has an amazing view of the reserve and you'll be able to watch the seasons change whilst helping visitors to have an enjoyable day.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You'll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 

About You

If you have a positive, friendly and can-do attitude and are happy to get stuck in, always keeping our customers in mind, this could be the role for you. You'll enjoy working alongside our staff team, interacting with visitors and helping make their experience in our café a great one. 

A good general knowledge of food safety and hygiene would be helpful, but we’ll give you training and the information you need.