October 2024 volunteering opportunities: Make a difference this Autumn!

Are you looking to make a difference and give your time to help others? Then you are in the right place! Here you’ll find a range of volunteering opportunities available across the Dudley borough where you can help!

Contact Grace (grace@dudleycvs.org.uk / 01384 573381) or complete the Dudley Volunteer Centre registration form if you would like to:

• Receive more information about the volunteering opportunities
• Register your interest to volunteer
• Promote your volunteering opportunities

Barnardo’s

Barnardo’s is a children’s charity that supports young people in a variety of ways, from advocating for their rights to mental health support and fostering and adoption. Barnardo’s have a range of volunteering opportunities available. Whether you’re assisting customers in one of their shops, part of a team running a fundraising event, helping behind the scenes in an office, or spending time with families in their services, by volunteering you can help make a difference to children and young people’s lives.

Current volunteering vacancies, and to apply, are available here.

Beacon Centre for the Blind

Beacon Centre for the Blind support people in the Black Country and Staffordshire to live well with sight loss. Beacon have a range of volunteer roles available, including:

• Lifestyle Volunteers – Based at their centre in Sedgley, the purpose of this role is to provide assistance to staff in delivering a varied programme of social and leisure activities in small groups and on a one-to-one basis, helping to support the visually impaired people who visit the centre.  Hours available:  10am – 3pm, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and/or Thursdays. An enhanced DBS check and two references will be required for this role.
• Befrienders – They are looking for Befrienders to provide telephone and/or face to face support to lonely and isolated people living within the local area.  This will involve making weekly phone calls or home visits to offer a listening ear and social contact, keeping a log of phone calls and brief details of conversations. Befriending volunteers must be able to make calls from their own devices that incur no cost to them (unlimited minutes, free landline calls etc).   No experience is needed, however a polite, friendly and empathetic manner is essential. It’s preferable that Befrienders, wherever possible, are able to commit to a period of befriending of at least 6 months, though this is not essential. Good communication and listening skills and a friendly, approachable manner are essential, as are reliability and a commitment to confidentiality. Once telephone befriending is established, volunteers can go on to ‘in person’ befriending if required and if agreed by both parties. An enhanced DBS check and two references will be required for this role.
• Collecting box volunteer – This opportunity is available within their Income Generation team. The role requires a full driving licence and can be flexible with days/hours. You will be required to collect the contents of Beacon branded collection boxes from shops, newsagents, pubs and restaurants, around the Wolverhampton, Dudley and Stourbridge areas. A basic DBS check and two references will be required.
• Bowling volunteers – Volunteers are needed to assist and support our visually impaired and blind bowlers.  They visit Castlegate, Dudley on a Friday once a month. Volunteers will support bowlers by guiding them to the lanes, help with positioning etc. An enhanced DBS check and two references will be required for this role.
• Walking volunteers – Volunteers are required to help support visually impaired people to walk round a secure outdoor environment. Some of their members need guides which will be the volunteers main role. They walk once a month on a Friday (usually the fourth Friday of the month) around West Park for an hour at a slow steady pace, stopping at a café for refreshments after the walk. Must be happy to engage/chat with the members on the walk.  West Park, 11am – 12 – Connaught Road gate entrance. An enhanced DBS check and two references will be required for this role.
• Swimming volunteers – Volunteers needed to help support our members from the minibus to the Centre, assist them round the changing rooms and to the lockers and guide them to poolside. Volunteers have the option whether you want to go into the pool or not. There is always a qualified swimming instructor in the pool. Volunteers are not expected to teach anyone to swim or to help anyone get changed. All members are independent but need support getting round a new environment. They currently swim twice a month on a Monday and a Wednesday. An enhanced DBS check and two references will be required for this role.
• Tandem pilot volunteer – Volunteers will support our visually impaired and blind cyclists who take part in their Tandem cycling group, supporting cyclists as pilots as well as guiding them to the Cafe afterwards.  Tandem cycling takes place from Halfpenny Green Airport car park usually on Monday, depending on members and the weather. An enhanced DBS check and two references will be required for this role.
• Book club volunteer – Volunteer(s) needed to help support a  Book Club. They meet once a month, on a Thursday at Beacon Centre Sedgley. Volunteers will need to have an interest in reading and be comfortable communicating with people and supporting with providing refreshments. It is a very relaxed and enthusiastic group with a great passion for reading. An enhanced DBS check and two references will be required for this role.
• Shop volunteers (Halesowen, Wolverhampton and other locations) – Volunteering in one of their shops is an opportunity to learn and develop in retail, work as part of a great team and support Beacon at the same time. Tasks will involve arranging window displays, shelves and rails, serving customers on the till,  maintaining the tidiness of the shop and steaming and pricing clothing.  Volunteers will also receive certificated training.
• Volunteer Van Drivers/ Drivers Mates – Based at our Wolverhampton Warehouse, volunteers will drive around the local community delivering and collecting stock.  The role is best suited to those who are experienced drivers, although there are opportunities to volunteer as a drivers mate as well.   (Work hours 9.30am to 12.30pm and/or 12.30pm to 4pm).
• Volunteer Minibus Drivers – Volunteer minibus drivers will be required to drive around the local community picking up and dropping off members, also assisting members on and off the minibus.  Some driving experience is preferred and you would need to have a category D1 on your driving licence. An enhanced DBS check and two references will be required for this role.

More information available here.  Contact: people@beaconvision.org

Black Country Food bank – Drivers (Brierley Hill)

Black Country Food Bank are a charitable organisation helping vulnerable individuals and families in crisis through the provision of 3 days emergency food supplies while a longer-term solution is developed.

Black Country Food Bank are looking for volunteer drivers to deliver food packages to different food branches in Dudley and the wider West Midlands (such as Walsall). A van is provided but volunteers need to have a clean driving licence, be over the age of 25 and under 70, be able to provide two references, and be physically fit (the role involves lifting food packages). Volunteers are also asked to commit to at least 3 hours between 8am and 2pm. More information available here.

Contact: 01384 67125 or admin@blackcountryfoodbank.org.uk

Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust – Gardening Volunteer

We are a mental health NHS Trust, supporting patients in the Black Country. Based at Bushey Fields Hospital, volunteers support the Trust in various roles such as admin, gardening, ward activities, gym sessions and more. There is currently a small garden area at the hospital for patients to use, and we are looking for volunteers with an interest in plants and ideas to share about making a therapeutic natural environment.

Black Country Living Museum

Black Country Living Museum is an award-winning open-air museum that tells the story of one of the very first industrialised landscapes in Britain. Set across 26 acres, you’ll explore carefully reconstructed shops, houses and industrial areas that represent the Black Country’s story. You’ll learn how steam power, human ingenuity and an increasingly interconnected world transformed this region into a manufacturing powerhouse. You’ll meet our historic characters who’ll tell you stories of what it was really like to live and work during this revolutionary period of history.

As you walk around, you’ll discover our collections, which were ‘Designated’ by Arts Council England in 2012, recognising their quality and national significance. Most importantly, you’ll see history brought to life before your eyes – hear the clang of hammers, smell the smoke billowing from red brick chimneys and maybe even taste the best fish and chips in the Black Country!

Volunteering with us is more than just a chance to give back; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of the Black Country. Whether you’re retelling our story as a costumed character, helping to preserve our collections or supporting behind-the-scenes, your contribution will help keep the stories of the past alive.

Becoming a volunteer with us means having the opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, sharing your talents and expertise, and being part of our supportive volunteer community. We recognise that everyone’s reasons for volunteering are unique to them, so, if your goal is to gain work experience to kickstart a new career, pass on your knowledge to others or simply fill your spare time with something meaningful, we aim to offer a variety of roles that cater to your interests and aspirations.

You can express your interest to volunteer at the Black Country Living Museum here.

Black Country Mental Health

Black Country Mental Health support people to manage their mental health through the provision of peer support, drop in and other services. They are looking for volunteers including:

• Volunteer Qualified Walk Leader for their Walk and Talk Service.
• Volunteer fundraisers who can complete applications for grants.
• Horticultural project vacancies based as Wollescote Park managing the old walled garden. No particular skills are needed, just a willingness to help out and at the same time manage your mental wellbeing.

Volunteers need to be 18+ and a DBS check (supported by Black Country Mental Health) is required. More information available here.

Contact: enquries@blackcountrymentalhealth.org.uk

Blue Cross – Shop Assistant Volunteer (Dudley)

Blue Cross are an Animal Charity and are looking for a shop assistant volunteer for their charity shop in the Churchill Centre. As a shop assistant volunteer, you will process sales through a windows based till, support facing up and tidying the shop floor periodically throughout the day. By volunteering with the Blue Cross, you will learn new skills, meet new people, gain experience and be provided with a reference after 12 weeks of volunteering.

Volunteers must be aged 18+, provide at least 1 reference, and be able to commit to 1 day a week for 4 to 6 hours between 9am and 5pm. Having retail, till use, customer service or merchandising experience would be desirable, but training is provided. Interested individuals are welcome to visit the shop for an informal chat about volunteering.

Please note, the shop requires the use of stairs to access the kitchen and bathroom. The shop is also a loud, busy and bright environment.

To apply, visit: Shop Assistant: Shop Floor (shop floor volunteer) | Blue Cross Volunteering

Brierley Hill in Bloom & Harry’s (Brierley Hill)

Do you like watering plants? Meet Tim Sunter to help water the plants on Brierley Hill High Street. Meeting at 10am every Friday at Harry’s Cafe (Dy5 3AE).

 Brockswood Animal Sanctuary  (Sedgley)

Brockswood Animal Sanctuary rescue, care for, and rehabilitate sick, injured, mistreated, abandoned, and unwanted animals, providing them with a safe and happy Forever Home here with us.

Brockswood Animal Sanctuary have a range of volunteering opportunities across the sanctuary, including conservation, maintenance, gardening and site improvement, visitor support, living history, café and shop, fundraising and animal care (wait list for animal care currently). Some roles require a DBS. More information about each role is available here.

Contact: 01902884390 or office@brockswood.org.uk

Citizens Advice –  Volunteer Home Library Advice Service Driver (Sandwell/Wolverhampton)

Are you passionate about helping others and making a difference? Do you love being behind the wheel and want to use your driving skills to help the community? They join Citizens Advice Dudley and Wolverhampton as a Volunteer Home Library Driver. Reading is more than just a pastime, it’s a lifeline. It offers countless benefits but unfortunately, many people in our community can’t access these benefits.

As a Volunteer Home Library Advice Service Driver, you will provide an effective and efficient delivery of Library products to Library customers who are unable to access a Library due to a disability, illness or frailty, or is a full time carer under the Home Library Advice Service (HLAS) in the Sandwell and/or Wolverhampton area. You will also help to provide an effective and efficient Initial Assessment of members of the public and refer them to the Home Library Advice Service (HLAS) Coordinator if an advice need is identified.

This role requires organisation, attention to detail and physical strength and stamina. Being able to lift and carry boxes of books, load them into your car, and transport them safely is essential. A qualified driver status with a full, current UK driving license (max. 6 penalty points) and access to a car is required. Minimum commitment is 1 day per week for at least 6 months, and includes a 4 week induction and training plan.

Contact: Human.Resources@dudleycabx.org

Cradley Town DC CIC – Volunteers needed (Dudley Borough)

Cradley Town DC Established in 2018, an England Football Accredited 2*. We are a CIC, Community Interest Company, non-for-profit voluntary run organisation. Home to 40 grassroots football teams, Boys, Girls, U6s-U18s ,Youth & Senior. Delivering a first-class community football provision to the local community and through our volunteering, coaching and mentoring programmes developing role models and leaders for the future. Offering 3 Development Centres, Wildcats Centre, Pan-Disability Programmes, Camps and community events, catering for all ages and abilities engaging and improving the wider community.

Cradley Town DC have multiple volunteering opportunities available, including:

• Sports Coach (Halesowen) – Coaching football sessions, planning and setting up drills within a specific age group. This role is for weekedays and weekends.
• Team Assistant (Halesowen, Dudley, Netherton) – Assist the coach with setting up equipment and running planned training sessions and matchdays. This role is for weekedays and weekends.
• Parking Attendant (Halesowen, Dudley, Netherton) – Direct traffic to parking spaces, advise where and where not permitted to park. This role is for a Sunday.

No experience necessary, but an interest in sport is ideal and volunteers should be trustworthy and reliable. All volunteers will be required to undertake an FA DBS check (covered by Cradley Town DC) and provide 2 references. All roles involving contact with children will also be required to complete a FA Safeguarding Course (covered by Cradley Town DC). All volunteers will also be provided with support and mentoring ,as well as training opportunities for those wishing to pursue coaching qualifications.

By volunteering for Cradley Town DC, you will become a member of an award winning FA England Football Accredited 2/3* Club, meet new people, have the opportunity to learn various roles within the club, undertake FA Coaching Qualifications, FA Safeguarding Qualifications, and FA Emergency 1st Aid qualifications. You will have a great support network from our organisation’s Committee and have lots of opportunities to get involved in other events held by our organisation.

Contact: cradleytowndc@outlook.com / 07882 944872

Compton Care Community Hub (Dudley)

Compton Care are a specialist palliative and bereavement support provider. They have opened a new community hub at the Churchill Shopping Centre in Dudley, which includes a pre-loved fashion store, a coffee shop and an area with free access to computers for members of the public to use.

The community hub is looking for volunteers to support the shop and café, including helping with the tills, organising the shop, serving drinks and general customer service. They are looking for volunteers to support any day of the week, with a particular need for mornings. More information available here.

Contact: michellereece@comptoncare.org.uk

Dudley Youth Justice Service – Volunteer Panel member (Dudley & Brierley Hill)

Dudley has a dedicated team of staff and volunteers from local communities who work with children and young people who offend or are at risk of offending, and their families/carers. We are a multi agency service and are part of Dudley Children’s Services. Our team is made up of the following practitioners: Social Workers & Case Workers Education Health Police Probation Officers Housing We also work in close partnership with other support services including schools, charities and the local community.

A referral order panel meeting is a community-based meeting that takes place after a child pleads guilty to a criminal offense: The meeting aims to help the child understand the consequences of their actions and repair the harm they caused. The child, their parents or carers, and the victim (if they want to be involved) attend the meeting and are supported to make a plan which addresses the harm caused and builds on the strengths the child has to improve their future outcomes. As a volunteer panel member, you will support children and families with other community volunteers. The aim is to build relationships and plan interventions to build on strengths and enable the child to make amends for their actions that have caused harm. You will have an opportunity to support vulnerable children and their families, learn new skills and meet other community volunteers who are committed to changing outcomes for children in the Youth Justice service. Training will be given around ACES (Adverse Childhood experiences), Trauma informed practice, the importance of meeting speech and language needs and an insight into the Youth Justice service.

Volunteers with need to have a DBS check (supported by Dudley Youth Justice Service) and provide 2 references. Panel meetings are held on a Wednesday and Thursday evening, and we would like a minimum commitment of 12 months from our volunteers. Panels are not held every week but we would hope that if you supported a child and their family, you would be able to commit to them for the duration of their intervention. Referral Order’s can be between 3-12 months. At Dudley Youth Justice we have a ‘child first’ ethos and ideally volunteers would have empathy and an understanding of some of the issues children face. You will have an opportunity to support vulnerable children and their families, learn new skills and meet other community volunteers who are committed to changing outcomes for children in the Youth Justice service. We will cover expenses for travel, claimed by logging onto our HR systems.

Guide Dogs – Training dog fosterer (Stourbridge and surrounding area)

Guide dogs supports blind and partially sighted people to live the life they choose. They are looking for:

• Training dog fosters who can foster and walk a guide dog for 6 months (7 days a week) in their home. Volunteers are needed who can be flexible with the hours they are at home during the day, have access to a car and have a home with a safely fenced garden or safe area. During the week, a guide dog trainer or mobility specialist will pick up the guide dog in the morning and drop off in the afternoon, although sometimes the dog will need to be kept at home.
• Breeding dog volunteers to look after and raise the next generation of life-changing guide dogs. This vital volunteer role is perfect for dog-lovers who are looking for a permanent addition to their family. Most of the time your guide dog mum will be a wonderful, pet dog, then roughly once a year you’ll also get to enjoy the company of a litter of her guide dog puppies for around 7 weeks. You’ll see her puppies grow in just a matter of weeks – from tiny newborns with closed eyes, to excitable bundles of fur ready to explore the world. And, when the pups are ready to go, you’ll feel a huge sense of pride knowing you’ve made a big difference by raising life-changing guide dogs for people with sight loss. Our guide dog mums are perfect for families. They’re specially selected for their ideal temperament and characteristics and have the very best guide dog genes. She’ll also arrive socialised and house trained! Breeding dog volunteers need to have a home with a safely fenced garden. Dog handling experience, a clean driving licence, access to a car you are insured to drive, and living within an hour’s drive from the National centre to drive is desirable. Guide dogs cover all the costs for our guide dog mums, including her food, vet bills and any equipment or bedding she needs.

Contact: volunteermidlands@guidedogs.org.uk or more information available here.

Happy Hours Club – Volunteers needed (Stourbridge)

Happy Hours Club is a social and activities club, offering a safe environment for local people with learning difficulties involving, games themed, evenings and activities, and much more. Happy Hours Club meets every Tuesday evening between 19:00-21:00 in Stourbridge.

They are looking for volunteer helpers at the club to help with a variety of different roles, such as supporting Tuesday’s events and activities, or providing social media support.  Volunteers need to be aged 18 and above but require no training or experience. More information available here.

Contact: happyhoursstourbridge@outlook.com

Headway Black Country – Rehab Support Volunteer (Dudley)

Headway Black Country provides specialist services to adults with an Acquired Brain Injury or Stroke and to their families and carers. They are looking for volunteers who can work alongside staff to support clients in a group setting and on an individual bases, assisting in the delivery of rehabilitation sessions. An enhanced DBS (supported by Headway Black Country) and 2 references are required. A minimum commitment of six months volunteering, with at least one half day per week, is required. More information available here.

Contact: harmesh@headwayblackcountry.co.uk

Healthwatch Dudley – Volunteers

Healthwatch is your local health and social care champion and want to give everyone the opportunity to help make a difference in their community. They are looking for Healthwatch Champions to help use people’s experiences of health and social care to improve services. As a Healthwatch Champion, you could be doing:

• Engagement – To improve care, Healthwatch Dudley need to understand people’s experiences of using services and support. That’s where their engagement volunteers come in. From attending community events to running online focus groups, you will play a crucial role in listening to what people want from health and social care services.
• Administration – Volunteers can help Healthwatch with entering data from engagement into our secure system, proofreading reports to make sure they are accessible to the public and evaluating the websites of service providers.
• Enter & View  – To get a first-hand look at how health and social care services are running, Healthwatch train some volunteers to go into services and ask people about their experiences of them, like a care home. This includes observing how the service runs, talking to patients, carers and staff, and contributing to a report about your visit.
• Micro volunteering challenge – Their micro-volunteering challenge is a low commitment way for you to support their work to champion the voices of the people living in Dudley borough. By complete small actions, you can encourage more people to share their experiences of using dentists, care homes, mental health services and more. By collecting these experiences, Healthwatch can see what works well and what needs to be improved and take this information to leaders in the NHS and social care and encourage them to make change to benefit the people of Dudley.The micro-volunteering challenges include sharing information on Healthwatch Dudley with your community, interacting on social media, sharing promotional materials, giving your feedback on their work and testing the usability of service websites. By completing a set of five small challenges, you will receive a certificate, personalised recommendation letter, £10 voucher to spend in Dudley Borough shops and an invitation to their volunteer appreciation events. More information available here.

Not found a role that suits you? We’re always keen to hear from people who have new skills to offer us, if that’s you, get in touch. Contact: hello@healthwatchdudley.co.uk

Leasowes Walled Garden (Halesowen)

Leasowes Walled Garden are in need of volunteers to help at their garden. This help includes dead heading, weeding, pruning, cutting back bushes/hedges, planting, watering, clearing and sweeping pathways, cutting the grass (once trained), watering plants, putting the kettle on and making drinks. No experience is necessary, just come along to the gardens, enjoy some gardening and meet some great volunteers and visitors. There is also someone on site to help support volunteers with gardening.

Volunteering is available all year round, but more so in the summer. The gardens are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 10am and 12.30pm, with a need for volunteers particularly on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Contact: hales.abbey@virginmedia.com or 0121 550 5440

Marie Curie – Companion at home (Dudley)

Marie Curie is here for anyone with an illness they’re likely to die from, and those close to them. Whatever the illness, wherever you are, we’re with you to the end. We bring 75 years of experience and leading research to the care we give you at home, in our hospices and over the phone. And we push for a better end of life for all by campaigning and sharing research to change the system.

They are looking for a companion at home, where you will visit and provide companionship and emotional support to someone who has had a terminal diagnosis and their loved ones. The support can be as simple as sitting with them to give them some company, taking them out to give them a break from their four walls, providing some practical support to help them with tasks they are struggling with, e.g. putting a duvet cover on, making phone calls etc. It can also include providing respite support to give the carer a break from their caring role. Everyone is individual so our support is flexible, but within boundaries which are explained to the client in advance. We do not provide personal care, get involved with medication or provide counselling.

The role is flexible – all they ask is that you have a minimum of 3 hours per week to give and can commit a minimum of 12 months to the role. You will need to be at least 18 to be a Companion at Home volunteer, provide references and complete your DBS application (there is no charge and you will be supported to apply). You will also need to keep in touch with your Companion at Home Manager and provide a short report after each visit. Your client will look forward to your visit so it is important to be reliable and let your client know if you are not able to visit. A driver with their own transport would be advantageous but not necessary.

Volunteering for a national charity there will be ample opportunities to take advantage of training, learning new skills and getting involved in lots of events. Marie Curie values all of its volunteers and knows that without them it would not be possible to deliver many of its services. There is a whole team of people who provide support and information to our volunteers and every volunteer has a volunteer manager who is available to help them every step of the way.

Contact: Maxine.wragg@mariecure.org.uk or 07703381815

Medaille Trust (Remote)

Medaille Trust support and empowers survivors of modern slavery, trafficking and exploitation. We do this in a number of ways, from offering safe accommodation to offering support in safehouses and in the community on our Moving on projects.

Medaille Trust are looking for volunteers who could act as translators to accurately translate text from English into Bengali, Arabic, Amharic, French, Albanian, Vietnamese, Romanian, Tigrinya, Punjabi, Urdu and Hindi. A flexible role but requires a translating or interpreting qualification, or to hold a degree in any subject and to be fluent in speaking and writing in English and one of the above languages. Must be 18+ years, have access to a computer, a DBS check (supported by Medaille Trust) is required and proof-reading, IT and communication skills. More information available here.

Contact: volunteering@medaille-trust.org.uk

Mentor Link -Volunteer Mentor (Dudley and surrounding area)

Mentor Link is a registered charity providing long term dedicated mentoring and therapeutic support to vulnerable and distressed children and young people in schools in the West Midlands facing who are social and emotional issues impacting on themselves and their engagement in learning.

Mentor link are looking for a Volunteer Mentor who will provide 1-1 mentoring support once a week during term time. This role is perfect for someone who is a good listener, non judgmental, reliable, committed, patient and empathetic As a volunteer mentor, you will:

• Provide a listening ear, support and encouragement to your mentee.
• Ensure that you are both clear about the boundaries of the mentoring relationship and operate within those boundaries at all times.
• Ensure that confidentiality is maintained, but that the limits of that confidentiality are understood
• Take responsibility for developing the mentoring relationship, ensuring that mentoring goals remain the key focus of the mentoring sessions.
• Seek out any additional information which you think your mentee would find helpful, e.g. information on courses or careers.
• Be vigilant about potential safeguarding issues and immediately refer any disclosures/concerns to the designated person within Mentor Link and if you work in a school the designated school contact.
• Communicate any other needs or concerns in a timely and professional manner to Mentor Link staff.
• Let the charity staff (and if you work in a school the school) know if you cannot attend an appointment in good time or if you foresee any reason why you will be unavailable for a period of time.
• Attend compulsory induction and safeguarding training within the allotted timescale and any other training/networking offered as you feel meets your needs/interests.
• Follow the Mentor Link policies and procedures when carrying out your role at all times, please contact staff if you are unsure.
• Ensure that there is a positive ending to the relationship, for the mentee and yourself.

The role requires someone who is aged 18+, 2 character references, Enhanced DBS Certificate, and a commitment of 1-2 hours a week over a minimum of 6 months. More information available here.

Contact: enquiries@mentorlink.org.uk

New Baby Network – Infant Feeding Peer Supporter (Across the Dudley Borough)

We are a network for parents of new babies to come together, get feeding support, access antenatal education or attend wellbeing walks. We run several support groups every week at different locations across Dudley Borough as well as weekend walks, online sessions and monthly antenatal workshops. We are ran by peer support trained volunteers and facilitators that have undergone our 6 week peer support training.

The role of a volunteer infant feeding peer supporter is to provide evidence based information, empathy and signposting to help families meet their feeding goals. This is through 2 hourly slots when available. This in turn will improve the emotional, mental and physical wellbeing of parents/caregivers and babies, one of the core values of New Baby Network CIC. Volunteers will also be able to access training and supervision to develop their own valuable skills and talents.

Volunteers need to be aged 18+, live within the Black Country or Birmingham and have a personal experience of infant feeding and positive attitude to breastfeeding. We also would like volunteers to have an ability to empathise and form trusting relationships, share experience to support and empower others, have a caring and non-judgement approach, and the ability to maintain boundaries, take responsibility for own self-care and utilise the support and supervision provided. No qualifications are required for this role but if you have any relevant training or qualifications please do let us know about them.

You will be provided with a full peer support training course before starting volunteering, as well as update training as needed. You will also receive an induction to share safeguarding, confidentiality and other relevant policies. During face to face and live virtual sessions, you will help alongside another person, but for written/typed communication like social media chats or text messages you are unlikely to be directly supervised or work in a pair. You will also receive IBCLC lead infant feeding training, learn new skills and meet and support families. Access to further training and occasional paid positions do become available to apply for. We also hold regular recognition events for our volunteers.

Ways you will be involved as a volunteer may include:

• Promoting, protecting and sustaining breastfeeding in local communities.
• Interacting with families both in person and online to provide relevant evidence-based infant feeding information.
• Facilitating perinatal support groups with a focus on infant feeding, alongside other peer supporters.
• Supporting antenatal infant feeding workshops alongside a member of staff or a volunteer.
• Signposting families to appropriate external or public services.
• Helping to find appropriate spaces/venues to run community infant feeding support groups and safely prepare them for sessions to happen.
• Writing letters of encouragement to feeding families.
• Offering targeted support via SMS to specific families following a messaging schedule.
• Sharing relevant and interesting content on social media/virtual support groups.
• Taking part in, and/or help plan public events like the Big Latch On and other celebrations/publicity activities,
• Welcoming and encouraging participants of all backgrounds, behaving in a respectful and culturally safe way.
• Gathering and sharing evaluation or feedback about their volunteering activities to improve for the future, and be involved in decisions regarding the development of provision.
• Keeping records relating to the infant feeding book library, and loan out books from New Baby Network CIC.
• Upholding the values, visions and policies of New Baby Network CIC.

Peer supporters do not:

• Hold responsibility for any staff, other volunteers or budget.
• Carry out lone home visits.
• Take on extra responsibilities for parents like changing nappies, loaning money or offering childcare.
• Share personal details with families unless they choose to do so as an individual and not in the capacity of a peer supporter.
• Diagnose conditions, offer treatment advice or feeding plans.
• Give advice or information on topics outside the scope of a peer supporter

Contact: volunteers@newbabynetwork.co.uk

Oxfam Retail – Shop Volunteers (Stourbridge and Quinton)

Oxfam is a global community of people who believe in a kinder, and radically better world. Oxfam believe they can overcome poverty by fighting the injustices and inequalities that fuel it. Their shops sell donated items to raise funds for Oxfam’s work, as well as reducing waste by giving items a second life. Oxfam retail volunteers make a real impact every shift and help us work towards a world where everyone has the power to thrive not just survive.

Oxfam Stourbridge (DY8) and Quinton (B68) shops are looking for Shop Volunteers. As a Shop Volunteer you will learn all about what goes into making our fantastic shop thrive. Why not try a bit of everything – you can keep busy in the stockroom sorting and checking donations or be on the shop floor, serving customers and putting stock out on sale. Feeling creative? Then why not help set up our online shop offer or create stylish window displays to wow passers-by? The possibilities are endless, and best of all, you’ll be raising vital funds to support people facing poverty around the world.

Oxfam Stourbridge (DY8) shop are also looking for:

• Online Shop Volunteer. You will research donated items to value them, prepare items to make the most of our donations, writing accurate descriptions to go on the website, take quality photographs, and packing and posting online orders.
• Stockroom Volunteer. You will help out with sorting stock received from donors and to help build up the team in the shop. This would be suitable for someone who is fit and active. You will be provided with all training and support needed to develop your skills as part of Oxfam’s back room team. Days needed for this role include Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Volunteers need to be aged 14+, provide 1 professional reference (if this isn’t possible, please still get in touch with the shop team and they can support) but do not need to have any previous experience. Basic IT skills are required for the Online Shop Volunteer. Oxfam are looking for helpful and friendly individuals who are happy to be part of the  team and up for trying a range of different shop tasks. The role is flexible, with each shift usually lasting 4 hours. The majority of retail roles volunteers do not require a DBS, but Oxfam will request a DBS for lead volunteers. Oxfam also offer possible reference for future employers and if you volunteer with them for over three months, you can support Oxfam at festivals like Glastonbury, Reading and Isle of Wight. Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list and they may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role.

To apply, please use the following links:

Stourbridge Shop – https://volunteering.oxfam.org.uk/opportunities/results?#team=13318

Quinton Shop – https://volunteering.oxfam.org.uk/opportunities/results?#team=13307 

Peppers Pet Rescue – Cattery Volunteer (Halesowen)

A registered pet rescue charity that predominantly rescues cats. We help as many animals as possible, by rescuing and rehabilitating before rehoming. They are looking for a cattery volunteer to assist with providing care to the resident animals, and the maintenance of the pens. This include cleaning animal enclosures to a high standard, reporting any concerns, restocking supplies, and feeding, playing with, grooming and socialising the cats.

Morning, afternoon and evening opportunities are available, 7 days a week. Volunteers are asked to commit to 2-3 hours and a basic DBS is required. Individuals need to be able to work independently and have a good level of physical fitness (the cattery is accessed via stairs and some of our pens are at floor level, being able to lift and carry large boxes of cat food, litter). More information available here.

Contact: Pepperspetrescue@hotmail.com or 07726115672 (text or whatsapp)

Priory Community Pharmacy – Patient representative for Priory REACH (Dudley)

The Priory Community Pharmacy is the case site for delivering a range of new health checks alongside the vaccination service. This integrated service will be personalised for the individual and will identify early on health risks that may otherwise go unnoticed through standard care. The project is known as Priory REACH: Research in Evaluation of improving Access to Cardiovascular disease and Health lifestyle checks.

As a volunteer patient representative, you will ensure that the integrated service fits in with the local context and is appealing to the Dudley community. The role includes attending stakeholder meetings when possible to advise on the development of the integrated service and ensuring that it meets the needs of the local community. It will also include reviewing patient facing documentation to ensure that the content is reader friendly, easy to understand, as well as engaging, reviewing and interpretating of project data and findings.

The role is a mix of online or via telephone, and in person at the Priory Community Pharmacy if possible. It is a long term role (up to a year) where activities are undertaken on a monthly basis. No DBS check or previous experience is required, but individuals who frequently use community pharmacy services would be advantageous.

This is an exciting opportunity for volunteers to meet the research team and pharmacy staff, be involved in this new way of working that could have an impact on many people’s lives, and be included as co-authors on academic papers. If successful, this working model could be rolled out nationwide.

Contact: grace@dudleycvs.org.uk

Read Easy (Dudley)

Read Easy offer free, confidential one-to-one reading coaching to adults who want to learn to read. Read Easy  have a range of volunteer roles available, including:

• Reading Coaches who can support a reader over a 12 to 18 month period. Coaches are required to support two 30 minute sessions on weekdays between 09:00am – 17:00pm. A DBS is required (supported by Read Easy).
• Administrator/Secretary who is an excellent timekeeper, organised and will use their administration skills to support the smooth running of the local Management Team. By recording actions agreed at meetings, and supporting the Team Leader, Management Team and Coordinator with administrative support, this role ensures that the group functions at its best and works in the most efficient and effective way to help adults learn to read in your community.
• Coordinator  is the main point of contact on the Management Team for Coordinators. They play a crucial role in ensuring that the Coordinators feel well supported, so that they in turn can support Readers and Coaches. Coordinators help interview Reading Coaches, assess and enrol Readers before pairing them with trained coaches; then offer ongoing support to these Reading Pairs, visiting their reading sessions occasionally and maintaining support through regular calls with both Reader and Coach to check all is going well. They call on the group’s Literacy Specialist to respond to any literacy related difficulties a pair may be having. They also help run Coach meetings.
• Coordinator Supporter is the main point of contact on the Management Team for Coordinators. They play a crucial role in ensuring that the Coordinators feel well supported, so that they in turn can support Readers and Coaches. Your Coordinators help interview Reading Coaches, assess and enrol Readers before pairing them with trained coaches; then offer ongoing support to these Reading Pairs, visiting their reading sessions occasionally and maintaining support through regular calls with both Reader and Coach to check all is going well. They call on the group’s Literacy Specialist to respond to any literacy related difficulties a pair may be having. They also help run Coach meetings.
• Local Fundraiser will seek funding from local organisations that are interested in investing directly into their local communities. The average cost of running an average sized Read Easy group, is approximately £3,500 a year. The local fundraiser role is vital to your local group as you will be able to access local funds that Read Easy UK is not able to apply for as a national charity. Knowledge and previous experience of fundraising and writing funding bids is desirable, thought not essential.
• Publicity Organiser who who will help the local community understand what a Read Easy group does; how local people can get the reading support they need; and how volunteers can help. There are two distinct forms of publicity, one requiring raising awareness by giving talks, putting up posters and talking to people generally about Read Easy. The second is using social media effectively to raise awareness and publicise your group. This role is commonly supported by other members of the team, with specific skills to offer.
• Volunteer Recruiter – If you’re a ‘people person’ and enjoy meeting a wide range of people, the Volunteer Recruiter role will give you the opportunity to be the first point of contact for all potential volunteers and to have overall responsibility for managing the recruitment and interviews for your local group. You will need to be enthusiastic, a good listener and be able to spot a strong volunteer. By helping to recruit the right volunteers, you will play a vital role in ensuring the longevity of the group.

Contact: ddrecruiter@readeasy.org.uk or submit an application form here.

Revival Fires – Cafe role (Dudley)

Revival Fires are a ministry based in the heart of Dudley who are presence centred, people focussed and community orientated. As a pastoral team, they are committed to supporting the community in Dudley through life’s issues. They run a range of groups and activities for the local community, and are passionate about giving back.

Revival Fires have a café on site and are looking for volunteers to help out. The café role is for those aged 16 and above, and would include making hot and cold drinks, cleaning the café, handing the till and providing good customer service for residents of Dudley who attend the café. The role would be between the hours of 10am-2pm, with days to be decided. There are also opportunities for further support and training in this role. More information is available here.

Contact: anna@revivalfires.org.uk

Side-by-Side Theatre Company – Theatre production and gardening roles (Stourbridge)

Side-by-Side Theatre Company is a charity that provides those with the learning disabilities the opportunity train in the performing arts, developing the skills to create theatre in all it’s exciting and diverse forms.

Side-by-Side are looking for volunteers to support their theatre productions, including the preparation and making of props and costumes (September to June), They are also looking for volunteers to support with the care and maintenance of the gardens around the premises (all year round). More information available here.

Contact: jo.sidebyside@btinternet.com

Stourbridge Glass Museum (Stourbridge)

Stourbridge Glass Museum presents over 500 items from the internationally renowned Stourbridge Glass Collection, celebrating the heritage of glassmaking in both the local area and internationally. They also run a range of activities and events including Tunnel Tours and the International Festival of Glass. They have a range of long-term volunteering opportunities available across the front of house, tour guides, activity support and event support. Volunteers need to provide a minimum of 3 hours every 2 weeks, but can volunteer any day. More information available here.

Contact: info@stourbridgeglassmuseum.org.uk

Sue Ryder – Grief Kind Spaces Volunteer (Dudley)

Grief Kind Spaces provide peer to peer bereavement support with trained volunteers. As a Grief Kind Spaces Volunteer, you’ll help people who have experienced bereavement within your local community in an informal group setting. You will care about people who have bereaved and have time to offer. A DBS (covered by Sue Ryder), 2 references and a long-term commitment of 2 hours every other week is required. Volunteers will receive six hours of online training followed by a days face-to-face training, as well as support from the area coordinator and regular reflection sessions as a group. There are many opportunities to volunteer as a Grief Kind Spaces Volunteer, including:

• Making a real difference to people’s lives within your local community.
• Making new friends in a caring and dedicated team.
• Developing your skills and experience in the healthcare sector
• Enhancing your CV and gain written references for prospective employers
• Being a part of a team that celebrates diversity and respects cultural differences
• Increasing your grief literacy by receiving training from, and then representing, a leading bereavement charity.

Contact: griefkindspaces@sueryder.org

Team Pumpkin Boxing – Volunteer boxing coach (Brierley Hill)

Team Pumpkin Boxing are an amateur boxing club that provides a range of boxing sessions for all ages. They also provide  free sessions for those not in work, education or with mental health challenges, as well as a healthy eating programme for children and young people.

Team Pumpkin Boxing  are looking for long-term volunteer coaches who are interested in boxing and passionate about supporting their local community. Volunteers can shadow a coach to begin with, and would be looking to help support a range of sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. A DBS would be required and a free four-day course to be trained in boxing.

Contact: 07480 842698

Tenovus Cancer Care – Volunteer Driver (Kingswinford)

Tenovus Cancer Care give help, hope, and a voice to everyone affected by cancer. Our shops depend on a regular supply of quality donated stock. As some shops receive more donations than others, we need drivers to move stock between our shops to ensure they are all fully stocked. We are looking for a driver to assist our Rhiwbina volunteer shop driver in moving stock around Kingswinford, Bromyard and Tewkesbury. Even a few hours a week would help make a difference. All of this vital work needs to happen for us to raise more money to help cancer patients and their families.

Individuals should have an enthusiasm for the work of Tenovus Cancer Care, a good level of fitness and enjoy being outside. Good communication skills to be able to respond positively with any queries from members of the pubic. This role would suit a proactive and outgoing person who enjoys meeting with others. The ability to drive and have a good size car or van is essential for the driving role if based at one of our shops. You will need to check with your car insurers that you are insured for business use before starting with us (this can usually be arranged at no extra cost) and your driving licence and business insurance will need to be checked before you can start. Travel expenses covered and lunch inline with our policy if completing over a number of hours

You’ll be making a real difference to the lives of people with cancer in your local area The opportunity to develop new and existing skills Access to all internal vacancies Access to training Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in line with organisational policy The enjoyment of meeting new people and being part of both our Retail Team and Wales’ leading cancer charity. Expenses can be claimed back

Complete an online application form here. 

The Access Project (Remote)

The Access Project support students from under-resourced backgrounds to access top universities, through a programme of tuition and in-school mentoring to  get the grades and transition to university. The Access Project are looking for volunteers to tutor secondary school students to boost their grades. The role is remote for one hour a week. It also requires a DBS (supported by The Access Project), 2 references, and for the volunteer to have an undergraduate degree (any subject), currently be studying or have relevant experience. More information available here.

Contact: volunteering@theaccessproject.org.uk

Top Church Training – Volunteers needed

We’re looking for new volunteers to support our busy community coffee shop, Harry’s on Brierley Hill High Street. We are open Thursdays and Fridays to the public and we have a variety of group activities, workshops and training courses going on during the rest of the week.

It’s a varied and hands-on role where you will support the staff to prepare food an drinks for customers and buffets, lunchbags and afternoon teas. You will also prepare coffee using the Barista machine, service customers and operate the till, help to maintain the kitchen and customer areas to food safety standards, and help with events to theme days.

You don’t need any qualifications, but important personal qualities include a good team player, punctual and organised, confident talking to people and calm under pressure, willingness to learn about ability to follow instructions, and the ability to listen and show compassion to our customers and service users. Volunteer shifts are half days and full days (lunch is provided) and you will usually volunteer for one shift per week or per fortnight. You will receive on-the-job training and access our coaching and training modules to improve your employability skills and personal development. You will also be supported to do online training such as Food Hygiene and Allergens.

Top Church Training offer a high quality volunteer training programme, where you can specialise in the areas you are interested in most such as Hospitality, Kitchen Skills or Gardening . This consists of a Level 1 Induction programme so you can get to know each other, and a Level 2 portfolio which is made of six training modules. The training modules are fun and engaging and are a blend of workbook activities, group activities and on-the-job, practical training. All designed to get you where you want to be while making new social connections, building your confidence and making a contribution to your community.

Volunteers will be recognised at the Yearly Queen’s Award and can learn a range of skills from organisations and responsibility, to networking, leadership and adaptability. A DBS Check is essential (supported by Top Church Training) and relevant expenses are reimbursed. More information available here.

Contact: topchurchtraining@btconnect.com or grace@dudleycvs.org.uk

We Love Carers (Dudley Borough)

WeLoveCarers is an independent charity based in Stourbridge that supports unpaid carers and their families throughout the Dudley Borough. They provide support, information and advice to carers, including those who care for disabled children and adults.  We love carers have a range of volunteering opportunities available to support their playgroups, coffee mornings, craft groups and fundraising support (photographing and listing donations).

They are looking for volunteers to support their summer play scheme, where you will help We Love Carers with their summer activities to make this summer memorable for children with disabilities and have some fun along the way. No experience is necessary and training is given. Must be 16+ and have a great attitude! For more information and to apply, visit their website.

Contact: hello@welovecarers.org

West Mercia Scouts (Dudley Borough)

West Mercia Scouts are recruiting adult volunteers, ranging from squirrel leaders and explorer leaders to active support members. Volunteers will run their section and allow young people to make the most out of their Scouting adventure, at the same time having an adventure themselves. It also offers the chance to build on personal skills, like teamwork, confidence and leadership.  Volunteers don’t need to have been a Scout, and can bring any skillset to lend a hand. Volunteers need to be aged 18 and above, have a DBS check completed, undertake modules (in-person and online) and provide 2 references. For those under the age of 18, there is a young leader programme available. More information about here.

Contact: 07872 828165 or clare.vas@scouts.org.uk

YMCA Wrens Nest – Activity Assistant and Youth Mentor (Dudley)

The  YMCA Wren’s Nest Navigator project provides targeted interventions with individuals and families within Wren’s Nest in Dudley. Our volunteer led project combines of buddying, mentoring, face to face and online activities and support, all session activity is co-produced with individuals and local partners.

The YMCA  are looking for an activity assistant to support the delivery of the community project and volunteer 1 to 2 hours a week. They are also looking for a youth mentor so support a young person to improve areas of their lives through weekly mentoring sessions. Mentors receive full training and are matched with a young person for a minimum of 6 months. A DBS is required for both roles. For more information and to apply, visit their website.

Contact: dudleywrensnest@ymcabc.org.uk

By volunteering with any of the opportunities above, you can contribute to causes you care about, see the positive change you create, develop valuable skills and connect with a range of like-minded individual who share your passion for giving back.

Please note, Dudley Volunteer Centre refers potential volunteers to groups and organisations seeking voluntary help. We also offer advice and support in relation to good practice and management of your volunteering opportunities. 

We take every care to refer potential volunteers appropriately, but it remains the responsibility of the group or organisation to operate good volunteering practices for recruitment and management of volunteers. The volunteer centre does not take up references on potential volunteers or conduct DBS checks.