Volunteer Jobs in UK for Foreigners

Are you a foreigner seeking meaningful volunteer opportunities in the United Kingdom? Whether you’re looking to gain experience, make a positive impact, or simply explore a new culture, volunteering in the UK can be a rewarding experience.

In this blog post, we’ll provide you with valuable information on volunteer jobs in UK for foreigners. We’ll cover everything from popular volunteer areas to application tips, so you can find the perfect volunteer opportunity that aligns with your interests and goals.

Get ready to make a difference and discover the incredible volunteer experiences that await you in the UK!

Can a Foreigner Volunteer in the UK?

Absolutely! The UK welcomes volunteers from all over the world. There are numerous organizations and projects that actively seek international volunteers to contribute their skills and enthusiasm.

Volunteering in the UK can be a fantastic way to experience British culture, meet new people, and make a positive impact on the community. Whether you’re interested in environmental work, social justice, or healthcare, there’s a volunteer opportunity out there for you.

Volunteer Jobs in UK for Foreigners

1. British Red Cross Volunteer (London)

• Overview: Help support emergency response, refugee services, and community outreach programs.
• Location: London and nationwide.
• Work Hours: Flexible hours, usually 3-5 hours per week.
• Requirements: Good communication skills and willingness to work with diverse communities.
• How to Apply: Submit an application through the British Red Cross volunteer portal.
• More Info: British Red Cross

2. National Trust Volunteer (Multiple Locations)

• Overview: Assist in maintaining historic sites and conservation efforts for natural environments.
• Location: Sites all across the UK.
• Work Hours: Flexible, ranging from one day a week to full-time seasonal roles.
• Requirements: Enthusiasm for history, nature, and conservation.
• How to Apply: Apply via the National Trust’s website.
• More Info: National Trust

3. Oxfam Retail Volunteer (Leeds)

• Overview: Help with retail tasks such as sorting donations, customer service, and visual merchandising.
• Location: Leeds (available in many cities).
• Work Hours: 4-6 hours per week.
• Requirements: Friendly attitude and basic retail experience (not mandatory).
• How to Apply: Visit the Oxfam volunteer page to apply.
• More Info: Oxfam UK

4. Amnesty International Campaign Volunteer (Bristol)

• Overview: Help raise awareness of human rights issues through local campaigns and events.
• Location: Bristol (roles available across the UK).
• Work Hours: 5-10 hours per week.
• Requirements: Passion for human rights and willingness to engage with the public.
• How to Apply: Submit an application through the Amnesty International website.
• More Info: Amnesty International UK

5. WWOOF UK Farm Volunteer

• Overview: Work on organic farms and learn about sustainable agriculture.
• Location: Rural locations across the UK.
• Work Hours: 4-6 hours per day, with food and accommodation provided.
• Requirements: Interest in organic farming and the environment.
• How to Apply: Register through the WWOOF website.
• More Info: WWOOF UK

6. Age UK Befriender (Manchester)

• Overview: Provide companionship and support to elderly individuals to combat loneliness.
• Location: Manchester (and other cities).
• Work Hours: 1-2 hours per week.
• Requirements: Patience, empathy, and good listening skills.
• How to Apply: Apply through the Age UK volunteer page.
• More Info: Age UK

7. Shelter UK Volunteer (Birmingham)

• Overview: Assist in charity shops or help with fundraising efforts for housing support.
• Location: Birmingham (available in other locations).
• Work Hours: 3-5 hours per week.
• Requirements: Customer service skills and interest in housing issues.
• How to Apply: Apply via the Shelter UK website.
• More Info: Shelter UK

8. Mind Charity Volunteer (Cardiff)

• Overview: Support mental health awareness campaigns and provide administrative assistance.
• Location: Cardiff (opportunities nationwide).
• Work Hours: Flexible, 2-5 hours per week.
• Requirements: Passion for mental health advocacy.
• How to Apply: Visit the Mind charity volunteer page.
• More Info: Mind

9. Cancer Research UK Event Volunteer (London)

• Overview: Help organize and run charity events, such as Race for Life and fundraising activities.
• Location: London and various cities.
• Work Hours: Event-based, usually weekends.
• Requirements: Energetic and organized, with strong teamwork skills.
• How to Apply: Apply through the Cancer Research UK website.
• More Info: Cancer Research UK

10. The Salvation Army Soup Kitchen Volunteer (Liverpool)

• Overview: Assist in preparing and serving food to homeless and vulnerable individuals.
• Location: Liverpool (available in other cities).
• Work Hours: 2-4 hours per shift.
• Requirements: Compassion and a desire to help those in need.
• How to Apply: Apply through The Salvation Army’s volunteer portal.
• More Info: The Salvation Army UK

11. Wildlife Trust Conservation Volunteer (Birmingham)

• Overview: Help with wildlife conservation projects, including habitat restoration.
• Location: Birmingham (nationwide opportunities).
• Work Hours: 3-5 hours per week.
• Requirements: Interest in conservation and wildlife.
• How to Apply: Visit the Wildlife Trust’s website to apply.
• More Info: Wildlife Trusts

12. RNLI Lifeboat Station Volunteer (Cornwall)

• Overview: Help with lifeboat station operations, fundraising, and community outreach.
• Location: Coastal areas like Cornwall.
• Work Hours: Flexible hours.
• Requirements: Physically fit and willing to work in a team.
• How to Apply: Apply through the RNLI website.
• More Info: RNLI

13. Guide Dogs UK Puppy Raiser Volunteer

• Overview: Raise and care for guide dog puppies for up to 18 months.
• Location: Various locations across the UK.
• Work Hours: Full-time commitment for the duration of puppy care.
• Requirements: Time, space, and love for dogs.
• How to Apply: Visit Guide Dogs UK’s website.
• More Info: Guide Dogs UK

14. FoodCycle Kitchen Volunteer (Newcastle)

• Overview: Help prepare and serve meals to people at risk of food poverty.
• Location: Newcastle (and other locations).
• Work Hours: 3-4 hours per week.
• Requirements: Enjoy cooking and working in a team.
• How to Apply: Apply through the FoodCycle website.
• More Info: FoodCycle

15. Greenpeace UK Activist Volunteer

• Overview: Assist in campaigns and awareness-raising events on environmental issues.
• Location: Nationwide, including London and Bristol.
• Work Hours: Varies depending on events.
• Requirements: Passion for environmental activism.
• How to Apply: Visit the Greenpeace UK website.
• More Info: Greenpeace UK

16. British Heart Foundation Shop Volunteer (Glasgow)

• Overview: Support retail operations in BHF charity shops, helping with stock, customer service, and donation sorting.
• Location: Glasgow (available nationwide).
• Work Hours: 3-5 hours per week, flexible shifts.
• Requirements: Enthusiasm for charity work and good people skills.
• How to Apply: Apply through the British Heart Foundation website.
• More Info: British Heart Foundation

17. St John Ambulance Volunteer First Aider (Edinburgh)

• Overview: Provide first aid cover at events or assist in delivering first aid training.
• Location: Edinburgh (nationwide opportunities).
• Work Hours: Flexible hours, typically during events.
• Requirements: First aid training (provided by St John Ambulance).
• How to Apply: Apply through the St John Ambulance website.
• More Info: St John Ambulance

18. Barnardo’s Volunteer (London)

• Overview: Support children’s charity work through assisting in charity shops, mentoring programs, or fundraising events.
• Location: London (opportunities across the UK).
• Work Hours: 2-5 hours per week.
• Requirements: Good communication skills and a passion for supporting children’s welfare.
• How to Apply: Visit the Barnardo’s website for available roles.
• More Info: Barnardo’s

19. Marie Curie Helper Volunteer (Brighton)

• Overview: Offer companionship to people with terminal illnesses, either in their homes or in hospice settings.
• Location: Brighton (nationwide roles available).
• Work Hours: 2-4 hours per week.
• Requirements: Patience, empathy, and willingness to support end-of-life care.
• How to Apply: Apply via the Marie Curie website.
• More Info: Marie Curie

20. Volunteering Matters (Cambridge)

• Overview: Help in social projects focused on education, youth work, and community building.
• Location: Cambridge (nationwide roles).
• Work Hours: 3-6 hours per week.
• Requirements: Enthusiasm for community service and strong interpersonal skills.
• How to Apply: Register your interest through the Volunteering Matters website.
• More Info: Volunteering Matters

Benefits of Volunteering in the UK

1. Skill Development
   Volunteering can improve transferable skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving.
2. Networking Opportunities
   You’ll meet people from various industries and communities, creating connections that could lead to future job opportunities.
3. Cultural Exchange
   You’ll get the chance to learn about British culture while sharing your own.
4. Personal Growth
   Helping others can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Steps to Apply for Volunteer Jobs in the UK

1. Research Opportunities
   Identify roles that match your interests, skills, and location preferences. Use trusted platforms like:
   • Volunteering Matters
   • Do-it.org.
2. Check Requirements
   Ensure you meet eligibility criteria, such as visa requirements and skill sets.
3. Prepare Your Application
   Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role.
4. Submit Applications
   Apply through official websites or contact organizations directly.
5. Attend Interviews or Orientation
   Some roles may require an interview or training sessions before you start.

Conclusion

Volunteering in the UK offers foreigners a unique chance to contribute to meaningful causes while gaining personal and professional growth. From conservation work with the National Trust to supporting refugees with the British Red Cross, there are countless opportunities for you to make a difference.

Take the first step today by researching roles that align with your skills and interests. With the right preparation and enthusiasm, your volunteer journey in the UK will be both fulfilling and impactful.

Ready to start your volunteering adventure? Explore opportunities and begin making a difference!