New Volunteering Opportunities for May 2026
Independent Visitor Volunteers
Could you volunteer and make a difference to a local young person in care?
An Independent Visitor is an adult volunteer who provides support and friendship to a young person in care. This involves establishing a long-term supportive relationship where the young person will have the opportunity to develop their interests, learn new skills and build their self-esteem.
In this role, you can make a positive difference to the life of a vulnerable young person. It would suit a dedicated volunteer who can be a good role model. Training is provided and the time commitment is a few hours once a month (visits usually happen at the weekend) for a minimum of two years.
Ref: V62
Mental Health Gardening Session Volunteers
Are you a keen gardener who is passionate about promoting the benefits of physical activity and raising awareness of mental health? A charity is looking for volunteers to support at gardening sessions in Newbury, helping to deliver a fun, safe and welcoming atmosphere to adults experiencing mental health problems.
Time commitment will be in the region of 3-6 hours a week, spread across two days (Tuesday and Thursday afternoons). Volunteers should be friendly and approachable, with good knowledge of gardening and allotments and an awareness of mental health.
Ref: V391
Activity Companions
Would you like to volunteer as a friend/companion to children and young people with physical or sensory disabilities, as they take part in different activities?
A local disability charity runs activities such as youth clubs, sports and trips out across the West Berkshire area, and volunteers are needed to help with these. The charity’s aim is to ensure that children and young people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else.
Volunteers do not provide ‘care’, but rather become friends/companions. Ideal for fun and lively volunteers who enjoy games, sports and being with young people. Timings are 3.45pm to 5.15pm, and 5.30pm to 7.15pm every other Friday in Thatcham.
Ref: V205
Information Room Volunteers
This is an opportunity to join a dedicated team of trained volunteers who enjoy helping people to find out the right information about medical conditions and other related issues. Following training, you will join a team in the local hospital who are kept busy signposting patients and visitors to accredited information and useful services. Volunteering takes place in the daytime on weekdays.
Ideal if you have good communication skills, a friendly nature and can show a natural empathy to people who from time to time might be distressed, anxious or worried. Good basic IT skills will be required, but training in specific systems will be provided.
Ref: V329
Brownie, Guide and Rainbow Volunteers
Be an inspiring role model to girls and young women in Newbury – and have fun in the process. Both leaders and helpers are needed. As unit leader, you’ll run the unit, lead a team of volunteers, and plan and deliver a programme of awesome activities.
If you’re enthusiastic about giving girls opportunities for fun, friendship, challenge and adventure then you’ll make a perfect unit helper. You’ll be key in providing the extra help needed to make unit meetings and events happen. Plus, you’ll get to know the girls and other volunteers, and be part of the Girlguiding community.
Ref: V126
Fundraising Events Organisers
The local branch of a cat welfare charity is looking for volunteers to join its Fundraising Events Team. The team plan and deliver local events such as centre open days and the annual Christmas bazaar. They develop ideas and share tasks such as contacting stall holders, planning event set-up, organising raffle prizes and helping publicise events.
Time commitment is 4-8 days per year (events are usually at weekends) and a little time in between for planning and admin in the lead up to an event. The role would suit those who enjoy planning, organising and being part of a friendly team.
Ref: V45
For additional advice and guidance on volunteering roles, please contact Volunteer Centre West Berkshire via vbase@vcwb.org.uk or call 01635 49004