At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in care homes and hospitals, ensuring their voices are heard.
- Company: VoiceAbility is a leading charity advocating for people's rights and wellbeing across the UK.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop communication skills, and make a real difference in your community.
- Why this job: Join a rewarding role that challenges you while connecting with diverse individuals and fostering inclusivity.
- Qualifications: Open to anyone over 18 living in the UK; no prior experience required.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of just 3 hours per week; DBS check required.
Overview
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility.
Location: Bedfordshire
Salary: Volunteer Position
Contract Type: Part Time
All applications by 23/07/2026 23:59
About VoiceAbility
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website – www.voiceability.org.
Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility
Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!
We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you\\\’re looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!
Volunteer positions currently available in Bedfordshire
Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
- Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
- Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
- Raise concerns
- Keep detailed notes and records
- Make a real difference to someone’s life
Hospital Visitor Volunteer
Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate. The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake. This role entails weekly visits to either Townsend Court and Poplar Wards (Luton) on Fridays 1-4 or Fountains Court (Bedford) on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
- hold drop-in sessions
- attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
- share information
- assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
Support Session Volunteer
You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities. Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis. The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual.
- help people have their say when it matters most
- Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
- help people to make complaints and use local services
All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00. You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.
Safeguarding Commitment Statement
VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.
ED&I Statement
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.
VoiceAbility is a Disability Confident employer. Any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.
To find out more click “Apply Now”.
The Company
The Company has experienced unprecedented growth over the past few years. We have a vast number of employees, and provide support to clients from all over the country.
Documents
- RPR Support Volunteer Role Description – Download
- Hospital Visitor Volunteer Role Description – Download
- Support Session Volunteer Role Description – Download
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Volunteer with VoiceAbility in Bedfordshire employer: Sandwell College
Contact Detail:
Sandwell College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer with VoiceAbility in Bedfordshire
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with VoiceAbility's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to advocacy and support will help you align your motivations with theirs, making it easier to express your passion for the role during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former volunteers of VoiceAbility. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the organisation, and may even offer tips on how to stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Attend local community events or workshops related to advocacy and support services. This not only enhances your understanding but also shows your commitment to the cause, which can be a great talking point when you engage with VoiceAbility.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific scenarios where you've demonstrated empathy and communication skills. Being able to share real-life examples will showcase your suitability for the volunteer roles available at VoiceAbility.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer with VoiceAbility in Bedfordshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the volunteer positions available. Understand the responsibilities and requirements for roles such as RPR Support Volunteer, Hospital Visitor Volunteer, and Support Session Volunteer.
Tailor Your Application: When writing your application, make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the specific volunteer role you are applying for. Mention any previous volunteering or advocacy experience.
Show Your Passion: Express your motivation for wanting to volunteer with VoiceAbility in your application. Share why you believe in the importance of advocacy and how you can contribute to making a difference in the community.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell College
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the volunteer position you're applying for. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks of an RPR Support Volunteer, Hospital Visitor Volunteer, or Support Session Volunteer, as this will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with the role.
✨Show Your Passion for Advocacy
VoiceAbility is all about ensuring that individuals have their voices heard. During the interview, express your passion for advocacy and helping others. Share any relevant experiences where you've supported someone in need or contributed to community initiatives, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the cause.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation, its values, and the impact of the volunteer roles. This shows your genuine interest in VoiceAbility and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in these volunteer roles. Be ready to discuss your communication style and provide examples of how you've successfully interacted with diverse groups of people. This will reassure the interviewers that you can connect with those you’ll be supporting.