accessibility & help

Refugee services volunteering

A refugee services volunteer shows a client around a fruit and veg market©InfoEvery year, our volunteers help thousands of vulnerable people – including unaccompanied children – adjust to life in a new country and access vital services. Could you help a stranger in a strange land?

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How would I be helping people?

As a refugee services volunteer, you could offer valuable support and advice to ease the process of settling into a new environment. You might help by:

  • offering peer befriending support to young refugees
  • helping refugees and asylum seekers access healthcare and clothing
  • showing refugees where to find local amenities such as the post office.

What skills and training do I need?

Language skills are desirable but not necessary. You need good interpersonal skills and to be sympathetic to people of different backgrounds, ages and physical and psychological needs who are faced with a difficult and stressful situation.

We will provide you with the training and support you need to do this role.

How much time do I need to give up?

You and your volunteering manager will discuss how much time you are able to give. Since our volunteering opportunities depend on local needs, some areas may need volunteers more regularly or for longer hours than others. If one of our services requires more time than you are able to give, we may have other volunteering opportunities that fit your schedule.

Will volunteering cost me anything?

We reimburse all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses when you volunteer for us. Volunteers are asked to keep expenses to a minimum and to supply receipts. Please feel free to discuss this with a volunteer advisor beforehand if you have any worries or questions.

Why are volunteers needed?

Without volunteers we would never be able to give people the help they need in a crisis. Because we offer so many services across the UK, we depend on people who generously give up their time to help others. 

How do I apply?

You can search and apply online for refugee services volunteering opportunities. You can also talk to a service manager about current opportunities near you.

Apply now

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