Volunteering with us

We are looking for dedicated individuals to join us in our mission to make a positive impact in our community.

Below are details of the Car Scheme, 1:1 Befriending Service, Social Activities Volunteering and our Office volunteering opportunities. 

Driving for our Community Car Scheme

Our car scheme is in high demand, so there’s always someone who could use a lift. As a volunteer driver, you’re in control – simply pick the journeys that work for you and your schedule.

You get to meet so many amazing people with fascinating stories to tell – it is so much more than just a car scheme!

Here’s What to Expect:

• Completely flexible commitment.

Mileage reimbursement – we’ll cover your travel at 45p per mile.

• Full training is provided, a DBS check, and a friendly office team to guide & assist you.
• Easy scheduling – use our online portal to select your drives, or opt for a weekly call from us – whichever suits you best!
• It’s a rewarding way to make a real difference in your community, on your terms.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the team!

Call us on: 01832 275433 or email admin@volunteer-action.org.uk

Becoming a Befriender

Benefits for the person being Befriended    

Being Befriended does not solve all life’s problems, but the opportunity to talk to a willing listener increases happiness, confidence and self-esteem. Meeting new people always opens new opportunities, creates new interests and widens horizons.  It can improve quality of life and improve both physical and mental health.  

Benefits for the Befriender    

Volunteering allows you to contribute positively to society and make a tangible impact in the lives of others.  Many volunteers find personal satisfaction and fulfilment in helping others and being part of a cause.   Our volunteers are all very positive about the benefits they experience.  It helps you connect with your local community and fosters a sense of belonging.  It can help combat your own feelings of isolation by forming meaningful connections with others.  Volunteering provides opportunities to learn new skills and gain experience that can be beneficial for personal and professional growth.   

Why are Befrienders needed?   

Social isolation and loneliness damage people’s health and quality of life. It can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke; as well as mental health conditions such as dementia, depression, anxiety, and suicide. Social isolation and loneliness limit mobility and activities of daily living, worsen general quality of life and are risk factors for violence and abuse. Overall, both social isolation and loneliness predict premature mortality, in much the same way as well-established risk factors such as obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking, substance abuse and poor access to health care. 

Characteristics of a Befriender  

Anyone aged 18+ is welcome.  Befrienders with all types of personalities are welcomed by VA.  Introvert or extrovert – all are welcome. Practical or intellectual  – all are welcome.  Our members are all different, so our Befrienders need to be different.  You just need to be willing to engage in conversation and be a good listener.  Be interested in the person you are supporting.  You will need to be patient, empathetic, trustworthy, non-judgemental and kind. 

Volunteer Action’s Befriending Scheme  

Volunteer Action Befriending is aimed at providing conversation and companionship in the member’s home.  Befrienders are not expected to carry out caring duties or practical tasks.

• We provide induction and on-going training, support sessions and are always available to support and answer questions in individual circumstances.
• We carry out assessments to link volunteers with suitable partners, with similar interests and outlooks to ensure that our partnerships are as successful as possible.
• All our volunteering vacancies require two references a Disclosure and Barring check (DBS).
• Travel expenses can be claimed if you need to drive to make your visits. We also try to pair a volunteer up with a local person if possible, when a volunteer does not drive. 

You could volunteer for our :

and a

Want to find out more?

Call us on: 01832 275433 or email befriending@volunteer-action.org.uk for a no-obligation conversation about volunteering. 

Social Activities Volunteering 

Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? Do you enjoy spending time with others, lending a helping hand, or simply bringing a smile to someone’s face?

We’re currently looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to support a wide range of social activities in the East Northamptonshire and Corby areas. These activities are designed to help older adults—particularly those aged 65+ living in rural isolation—feel more connected, valued, and included in community life.

Activities Include:

• Craft and creative groups
• Walking and gentle exercise groups
• Coffee mornings and social chats
• Games, quizzes, and reminiscence sessions
  …and much more!

Why It Matters:

Many older people in our community, especially in rural areas, experience isolation and loneliness. Regular social contact can have a powerful effect on mental and emotional wellbeing. Our groups offer a safe, welcoming space for older adults to make connections, share stories, and build friendships.

What You Can Do:

As a volunteer, you might:

• Welcome attendees and help them settle in
• Assist with setting up or running activities
• Offer encouragement and companionship during the sessions
• Be an extra pair of hands to make the day run smoothly

Whether you can offer a couple of hours each week or more, your time could make a big difference in someone’s life.

Ready to get involved?
We’d love to hear from you! Volunteering is flexible, rewarding, and a great way to meet people from all walks of life.

erika@volunteer-action.org.uk
01832 275433

Help us make East Northamptonshire and Corby a more connected place for everyone.
Because no one should feel alone.

Office Volunteering 

Are you organised, friendly, and looking to make a difference during your week?
Join us as a volunteer in our Oundle office, where you’ll play a key role in helping us support our local community.

What’s Involved?

We have a variety of administrative tasks that help keep our services running smoothly, including:

• Answering phone calls from our members
• Taking bookings and messages
• Helping with paperwork and filing
• Supporting general office organisation

No prior experience is necessary—we’ll show you everything you need to know!

When Can I Help?

Opportunities are available Monday to Friday, between 9am and 1pm for our phone calls scheme or 1pm – 4pm for administrative tasks, and we’ll work around your availability. Whether you can spare a couple of hours or a regular morning each week, your support is truly valued.

Why Volunteer in the Office?

Volunteering isn’t just about giving your time—it’s about getting something back too. As an office volunteer, you’ll:

• Feel good knowing you’re helping people in your community
• Build confidence by trying something new
• Learn or refresh admin and communication skills
• Meet new people and be part of a friendly, supportive team
• Enjoy the structure and sense of purpose that regular volunteering brings

Whether you’re retired, in between jobs, or just want to give a little time during the week, this could be the perfect way to get involved.

 Interested?

We’d love to hear from you!
admin@volunteer-action.org.uk
01832 275433

Be part of something local, supportive, and rewarding.
Volunteer with us in our Oundle offices —and make a difference, right from the heart of the action.