Youth Children Volunteer Roles

As a Group Leader at Youth Challenge Oxfordshire (YoCO), you will play a key role in guiding and supporting young people through our 18-month program. This involves leading weekly 2-hour sessions in Carterton, creating a safe and engaging environment, and driving personal development.

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 Carterton
• Team Player: Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team.

Note: Expenses will be covered.

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic Independent Visitor volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people.

Our Staffordshire and Stoke Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Biddulph.

• Are you passionate about wanting to help young people?
• Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month?
• Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment?

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you.

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park.  We will match you with a child you share common interests with.

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided.

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer:

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her.
• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people.
• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake.
• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals.
• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together.  

 *names have been changed
 

The Application

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime
• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person
• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process

Our values are to be Compassionate, Open and Bold.  If this sounds like you, please click the apply button.  Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please call or email and we will be happy to help.​

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!

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic Independent Visitor volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people.

Our Staffordshire Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Swadlincote.

• Are you passionate about wanting to help young people?
• Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month?
• Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment?

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you.

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park.  We will match you with a child you share common interests with.

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided.

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer:

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her.
• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people.
• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake.
• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals.
• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together.  

 *names have been changed
 

The Application

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime
• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person
• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process

Our values are to be Compassionate, Open and Bold.  If this sounds like you, please click the apply button.  Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please call or email and we will be happy to help.​

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic Independent Visitor volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people.

Our Staffordshire Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Stafford.

• Are you passionate about wanting to help young people?
• Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month?
• Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment?

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you.

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park.  We will match you with a child you share common interests with.

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided.

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer:

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her.
• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people.
• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake.
• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals.
• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together.  

 *names have been changed
 

The Application

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime
• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person
• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process

Our values are to be Compassionate, Open and Bold.  If this sounds like you, please click the apply button.  Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please call or email and we will be happy to help.​

As a Group Leader at Youth Challenge Oxfordshire (YoCO), you will play a key role in guiding and supporting young people through our 18-month program. This involves leading weekly 2-hour sessions in Faringdon, creating a safe and engaging environment, and driving personal development.

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 Faringdon
• Team Player: Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team.

Note: Expenses will be covered.

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic Independent Visitor volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people.

Our Staffordshire Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Cannock.

• Are you passionate about wanting to help young people?
• Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month?
• Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment?

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you.

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park.  We will match you with a child you share common interests with.

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided.

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer:

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her.
• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people.
• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake.
• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals.
• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together.  

 *names have been changed
 

The Application

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime
• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person
• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process

Our values are to be Compassionate, Open and Bold.  If this sounds like you, please click the apply button.  Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please call or email and we will be happy to help.​

As a Youth Worker at Youth Challenge Oxfordshire (YoCO), you will play a key role in guiding and supporting young people through our 18-month program. This involves leading weekly 2-hour sessions in Wallingford, creating a safe and engaging environment, and driving personal development.

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 Wallingord
• Team Player: Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team.

Note: Expenses will be covered.

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic Independent Visitor volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people.

Our Staffordshire Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Tamworth.

• Are you passionate about wanting to help young people?
• Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month?
• Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment?

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you.

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park.  We will match you with a child you share common interests with.

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided.

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer:

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her.
• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people.
• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake.
• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals.
• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together.  

 *names have been changed
 

The Application

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime
• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person
• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process

Our values are to be Compassionate, Open and Bold.  If this sounds like you, please click the apply button.  Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please call or email and we will be happy to help.​

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic Independent Visitor volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people.

Our Staffordshire Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Walsall.

• Are you passionate about wanting to help young people?
• Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month?
• Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment?

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you.

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park.  We will match you with a child you share common interests with.

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided.

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer:

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her.
• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people.
• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake.
• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals.
• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together.  

 *names have been changed
 

The Application

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime
• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person
• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process

Our values are to be Compassionate, Open and Bold.  If this sounds like you, please click the apply button.  Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please call or email and we will be happy to help.​

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people.

Our Staffordshire and Stoke Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Leek.

• Are you passionate about wanting to help young people?
• Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month?
• Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment?

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you.

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park.  We will match you with a child you share common interests with.

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided.

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer:

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her.
• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people.
• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake.
• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals.
• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together.  

 *names have been changed
 

The Application

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime
• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person
• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process

Our values are to be Compassionate, Open and Bold.  If this sounds like you, please click the apply button.  Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please call or email and we will be happy to help.​

Become, the national charity for children in care and young care leavers, is here to make a difference to individual lives right now, and to improve the care system as a whole for future generations. We believe that young people who’ve experienced care should have the same chances as everyone else to live happy, fulfilled lives. We put young people at the heart of everything we do – helping them to be powerful agents of positive change in their own lives, in the care system and in society.

Due to recent and forthcoming planned retirements we are now seeking three new Trustees to join our diverse and dynamic Board of Trustees.

As a Trustee you will have the opportunity to shape the future of our charity and work with other Trustees and the staff team to help us deliver our mission of helping children in care and young care leavers to unleash their potential and to make the care system the best it can be.

This is an important and exciting time to join Become as we finalise our new five year strategy with lots of ambition for the coming years.

Our target is to have at least half of our Board members who are care-experienced.  We also actively seek to bring diversity of perspectives and experience, and welcome applications from younger people, those with disabilities, those from racially-marginalised backgrounds and LGBTQ+ communities. Gender balance is important to us so we particularly encourage women to apply.

We are particularly seeking Trustees who have experience in the areas of Human Resources (HR), Fundraising, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI), and Legal.

Please see the role description for further details.

This is an unpaid role, but we provide expenses for travel and subsistence.

If you are interested, please send a CV and covering letter by close of play on Friday 8 November 2024 telling us why you're applying and how you meet what we’re looking for to us by e-mail.

There will be a two stage interview process:

• Interview with young people (online) – Tuesday 19 November
• Interview with Trustees (and with the Chief Executive) – Thursday 28 November

The Board of Trustees interview will take place in person at 88 Old Street, London, EC1V 9HU.

As a Group Leader at Youth Challenge Oxfordshire (YoCO), you will play a key role in guiding and supporting young people through our 18-month program. This involves leading weekly 2-hour sessions in Wantage, creating a safe and engaging environment, and driving personal development.

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 Wantage
• Team Player: Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team.

Note: Expenses will be covered.

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic Independent Visitor volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people.

Our Staffordshire Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Stone.

• Are you passionate about wanting to help young people?
• Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month?
• Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment?

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you.

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park.  We will match you with a child you share common interests with.

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided.

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer:

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her.
• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people.
• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake.
• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals.
• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together.  

 *names have been changed
 

The Application

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime
• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person
• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process

Our values are to be Compassionate, Open and Bold.  If this sounds like you, please click the apply button.  Alternatively, if you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please call or email and we will be happy to help.​