Volunteer with us

When we know that a volunteer is pregnant, we carry out a risk assessment for the role to ensure it is safe. If any risks are identified, we will look at reasonable adjustments or suggest an alternative role that is more suitable.

In many cases you can still volunteer, but situations are assessed individually. Please contact our Volunteer Co‑ordinator to discuss your circumstances so we can consider the best and safest way for you to get involved.

We do host placement students, but these are arranged through local universities and spaces are limited. If you are interested, please speak to your placement tutor or get in touch with our Youth Voice & Volunteer Co‑ordinator for more details.

Yes, absolutely. Many of our members have disabilities or additional needs and representation among our volunteers is very important to us. Please let us know about any access needs or adjustments you require so we can support you effectively in your role.

Yes. We have opportunities specifically for businesses and corporate groups. You can find out more on our Supporters page or by contacting our Fundraising Manager, who can share our latest corporate volunteering information and opportunities.

If you are aged 14–19, you may be able to join our Young Leaders programme to gain experience. If you are over 18, you can apply for our standard volunteer roles at the Youth Zone.

Yes, we reimburse reasonable expenses incurred while volunteering with us. You’ll need to submit a claim with valid receipts and follow our expenses policy, which we’ll explain fully during your induction.

All volunteer positions require an enhanced DBS check. Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent you from volunteering; decisions are made based on the nature of the offence and how relevant it is to the role. If you have unspent convictions, you will be asked to provide details confidentially for review.

Most of our volunteer opportunities take place in the Youth Zone itself. However, there are some roles that involve less frequent visits and certain administrative tasks that can be done remotely. Each role description explains where the work is based.

You are free to step back from your volunteer role at any time. If you decide to leave, we simply ask that you give us as much notice as possible so we can minimise disruption to services for young people.

You will have a clearly defined volunteer role, a named person for support, and a main contact for your sessions. We provide training, ongoing guidance, and regular feedback so you can build your skills. We also value your ideas and experience and will look for ways to involve you and recognise your contribution.

For most roles you will be invited in for an informal interview of around 45 minutes. This is normally led by the Volunteer Manager along with a member of staff connected to the role, such as a Youth Worker from the relevant area.

Volunteering usually does not affect benefit payments, but it’s important to double‑check. The NCVO website has up‑to‑date guidance on how volunteering and benefits work together, which we encourage you to read.

Visit our Volunteer Vacancies page to explore the roles available. When you find one that suits you, you can start your application online. If you have a particular talent or expertise you’d like to share, take a look at our Specialist Skill Volunteer role too.

There is no formal contracted time commitment for volunteers. Each role will include a suggested time commitment to help you understand what’s expected, but there is flexibility. If you’re unsure you can meet the full suggestion, we can discuss options with you.

In most cases, being a non‑UK national won’t prevent you from volunteering. However, you should check the conditions of your visa and be prepared to show that you are allowed to volunteer as part of the recruitment process.

Most volunteer roles are open to people aged 18 or over. If you are a member of the Youth Zone and aged 14–19 (or up to 25 with additional needs), you may be able to get involved through our Young Leaders programme instead.

For most roles we simply ask that you care about supporting young people—no previous experience is required. Some positions do ask for certain skills or qualifications, and these will always be clearly listed in the role description.

Yes, you can. Experience working with young people is helpful but not essential. Everyone has to start somewhere, and we’re happy to support you in your first volunteering role alongside young people.