If you enjoy making a difference and are looking for a rewarding role in youth work, why not become a Turning Tides Youth Club Volunteer and help raise the aspirations of young people in Southend?

As a volunteer, you will support our Youth Project Worker to deliver weekly youth club sessions for children aged 8–13. Our clubs are based in and around the Kursaal, Milton, and Victoria areas, providing young people with a safe and welcoming space to socialise, have fun, and take part in activities that build confidence and improve wellbeing.

Session times:

• Monday: 5:30 – 7:00pm
• Tuesday: 5:00 – 6:30pm
• Thursday: 5:00 – 6:30pm

This role is ideal for someone friendly, empathetic, and reliable, with a positive, can-do attitude and a genuine desire to make a difference in young people’s lives.

As a Hub Host, you’ll be the friendly face of the Hub—welcoming visitors, chatting with attendees, serving refreshments, and helping to set up and tidy away. Our Hub operates Monday to Friday, 10am – 2pm, and we’re looking for Hosts who can commit to one regular day per week.

This role is perfect for someone friendly, patient, a good listener, reliable, and who enjoys spending time with older people. In return, you’ll make a real difference, meet new people, and be part of a supportive team.

Become a member of our vibrant team of Volunteer Receptionists, where you’ll be the welcoming face for visitors at the heart of SAVS. This front-facing role includes managing phone calls, supporting staff with administrative tasks, and providing essential information about our projects, as well as local charities and services. Our Reception operates from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, and we’re looking for Volunteers who can commit to one regular morning or afternoon slot each week.

Ideally suited to someone friendly, positive and reliable, with good communication and computer skills and strong attention to detail, this role is an excellent way to brush up on your admin skills, learn about the local community and make new friends.

Are you a parent of a child aged 0–11 and looking for a flexible, varied role? Help shape local services for families in Southend by becoming a PVA. Get involved by sharing your experiences, joining workshops/discussions and influencing real community change. No experience is needed, just your voice. Find out more by clicking here.

• Provide role descriptions so volunteers understand what’s expected.
• Share schedules, updates, and changes in a timely and accessible way.
• Offer a clear point of contact for questions or concerns.

• Give proper induction and training before volunteers begin.
• Offer ongoing learning opportunities to build skills and confidence.
• Provide guidance and one to one supervisions.

• Create a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.
• Check in regularly, especially for roles that may be emotionally demanding.
• Have clear safeguarding, grievance, and support procedures.

• Reimburse agreed expenses (e.g. travel) where possible.
• Provide necessary equipment, materials, or resources.
• Ensure volunteers are covered by appropriate insurance.

• Thank volunteers regularly and sincerely.
• Celebrate achievements through events, certificates, references, or public recognition.
• Mark milestones such as long service or exceptional contributions.

• Offer flexible volunteering options that fit different lifestyles.
• Respect volunteers’ time and avoid unreasonable demands.
• Allow volunteers to step back or change roles without pressure.

• Invite volunteers to share feedback and ideas.
• Involve them in decisions that affect their roles.
• Act on feedback where possible and explain outcomes.

• Have transparent policies on conduct, health and safety, and data protection.
• Ensure volunteers know their rights and responsibilities.
• Maintain a culture of fairness and accountability.