1. Mental Health Volunteering
- Mind: A leading mental health charity in the UK offering volunteering roles in helplines, peer support groups, and fundraising.
- Website: mind.org.uk
- Samaritans: Volunteers can provide emotional support over the phone or face-to-face, helping people in emotional distress.
- Website: samaritans.org
- Rethink Mental Illness: Offers a range of volunteering roles where you can support people affected by mental illness through advocacy, peer support, and social activities.
- Website: rethink.org
- The Mental Health Foundation: Volunteers can engage in activities promoting mental health awareness, education, and research.
- Website: mentalhealth.org.uk
2. Research Volunteering
- Psychology Research Studies (University Labs): Many universities in the UK have ongoing psychology research projects that seek volunteers for studies. Participating can help you gain insight into research methods and contribute to important studies.
- Check university psychology departments for research assistant opportunities.
- The British Psychological Society (BPS): The BPS often has opportunities for volunteering in various research projects, as well as networking with professionals in the field.
- Website: bps.org.uk
3. Youth and Children’s Support
- YoungMinds: A charity focused on children’s mental health, offering opportunities to volunteer with young people, run campaigns, and raise awareness.
- Website: youngminds.org.uk
- Barnardo’s: Volunteers work with children and families, supporting them with emotional and behavioral challenges.
- Website: barnardos.org.uk
- The Children’s Society: Volunteers can help support vulnerable children and young people in various ways, from advocacy to direct support in mental health services.
- Website: childrenssociety.org.uk
4. Counseling & Support Roles
- Cruse Bereavement Support: Volunteers provide emotional support to those grieving the loss of a loved one.
- Website: cruse.org.uk
- Relate: Volunteer to provide relationship counseling and support for individuals and couples.
- Website: relate.org.uk
5. Crisis and Helpline Support
- Crisis Text Line UK: Volunteers can become trained crisis counselors, offering support to individuals going through mental health crises via text.
- Website: crisistextline.org.uk
- The Trussell Trust: Volunteers work in food banks and support clients who are in need of immediate relief, often interacting with individuals experiencing various mental health challenges.
- Website: trusselltrust.org