The Avon Trust logoThe Avon TrustEst. 1962 · Charity 219050
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Lend your hours

There is a role for the time you can spare.

Our 2,960 volunteers shape every programme we run. We will match your skills, geography and available hours to a role that fits your life — quietly, properly, and with proper training.

A group of volunteers gathered around a table, planning a community event in soft afternoon light
Roles open this season

From two hours a week to a Saturday a month.

2 hrs / week · Sundays

Sunday Doors Befriender

Visit an older neighbour each Sunday for tea, conversation and a walk if they fancy one. Six-week training, lifelong friendships.

Across Somerset & Wiltshire · Roles open: 86

Apply

1 hr / week · term-time

Reading Partner

An hour each week in a primary school, listening to a child read aloud. Patient ear, gentle encouragement — no teaching qualifications required.

Bristol · Bath · Devizes · Roles open: 42

Apply

Saturdays · seasonal

River Keeper

Weekend mornings restoring chalk streams — planting, monitoring, recording. Waders provided; flask of tea brought by your team leader.

Bristol Avon · Hampshire Avon · Roles open: 60

Apply

4–8 hrs / quarter · remote

Pro Bono Adviser

Lend professional expertise — legal, finance, design, HR — to the small charities we support through First Steps.

Remote-friendly · Roles open: 12

Apply

Tuesdays · 3 hrs

Warm Welcomes Host

Help cook and serve in a community kitchen each Tuesday afternoon — and sit down for a meal with the people who come.

38 kitchens across the South West · Roles open: 110

Apply

Twice / month · evenings

Bridge to Sixth Mentor

Mentor a young person aged 13–19 through the long road of school. We provide training, a senior mentor of your own, and proper supervision.

Bristol · Bath · Trowbridge · Roles open: 34

Apply
How it works

From hello to your first shift, in five steps.

  1. Step 01

    Tell us a little about yourself

    A short form, no CV needed. Where you live, what you enjoy, how many hours a week you might spare.

  2. Step 02

    A cup of tea, in person or on a call

    An informal chat with a volunteer co-ordinator. We listen for the fit between what you'd love to do and what the work actually needs.

  3. Step 03

    Training, free of charge

    Two evenings or one Saturday, depending on the role. Safeguarding, listening skills, and a chance to meet your team.

  4. Step 04

    A trial shift, with company

    Your first session is shadowed by an experienced volunteer. You can change your mind at any moment — no awkwardness.

  5. Step 05

    Ongoing supervision and supper

    Every volunteer has a named supervisor, a monthly check-in, and an annual supper hosted by the Chief Executive in your area.

Express interest

Hello — we would love to hear from you.

Fill in the form below and a volunteer co-ordinator will be in touch within five working days. No pressure, no follow-up emails if it isn't the right moment.