Carer Awareness Volunteer
Be the link that helps carers find support
Many people who look after a family member or friend don’t call themselves carers. They often don’t know where to get help.
By sharing information with others, you can make a real difference. A poster, a chat, giving a talk or a friendly face at an event could be the moment that a carer realises they are not alone.
What you can do
This role is flexible. You can share information in your local area or in other communities you are part of (such as cultural, social, or faith groups).
You can focus on just one activity or try a mix, depending on what suits you best:
- Share posters and leaflets in local places or in other communities
- Help set up and run an information stall at events
- Give short, friendly talks about carers and Carers Leeds
- Join staff or other volunteers at community activities
Have your own idea for reaching carers? We’d love to hear it.
Why it matters
Reaching hidden carers – Some people don’t realise they’re carers. You can help them find support.
- Breaking down barriers – A friendly face makes it easier for people to ask questions.
- Spreading awareness – More people will know about carers’ needs and the help Carers Leeds gives.
- Building community – Helping carers connect reduces isolation and brings people together.
What you’ll bring
You can get involved with or without experience. What matters most is an open mind and heart that welcomes people from all walks of life and communities.
We’re looking for kind, approachable people who enjoy:
- Listening
- Friendly conversations
- Or giving short talks to groups
What you’ll get
- Training and support from a named supervisor
- Travel expenses paid
- Social events with other volunteers
- Being part of a friendly and supportive team
- New skills and confidence
- A reference if you’d like one
Have Questions?
We’d love to chat with you. Contact Valerie Banks, Volunteer Coordinator, 07985 754570 or email valerie.banks@carersleeds.org.uk
About Carers Leeds
Established in 1996, Carers Leeds is a charity that provides information, advice and support to unpaid adult and parent carers across our city. This includes our Advice Line, carers support groups, one to one support and support in hospitals. Some of our services are universal – open to all carers – and some are targeted at specific groups of carers. Our services are provided to all communities throughout Leeds. We work in partnership with others to deliver our service and to influence them to act to benefit unpaid carers. This involves those working in health and social care and employers. We use what unpaid carers tell us about their experiences and what matters to them, to help create change at a local and national level.
About Volunteering at Carers Leeds
Thank you for contacting us about volunteering at Carers Leeds.Carers Leeds celebrates diversity and is an Equal Opportunities organisation. We welcome applications from all sections of the community — particularly individuals from Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities, and people with disabilities.Before completing your Volunteer Application Form, please read through our Volunteering FAQs below. You can also learn more about our Volunteering Selection Process.If you require the application in a different format, please get in touch:
- Carers Leeds Admin Team: 0113 246 8338
- Email: volunteering@carersleeds.org.uk
Can I volunteer if I am a carer?
Yes of course! We welcome your knowledge and experience. We would try to find a volunteer role that fits around your caring responsibilities.
Can I volunteer if my caring role has come to an end?
Yes. Carers interested in volunteering for Carers Leeds will be expected to wait a minimum of 12 months following a significant bereavement, before being considered as a volunteer.
Will I be out of pocket?
No, travel expenses involved in volunteering will be reimbursed. For example, using your car to travel to your volunteering is currently reimbursed at 40p per mile.
Will I need to have a DBS check?
This depends on the volunteer role you are applying for. There are some roles which do require a DBS check and some which do not. If you do require a DBS check, this is provided by Carers Leeds.
Will I receive training for my volunteer role?
Yes, all volunteers have an induction to Carers Leeds and then specific training related to their role for example listening skills or how to support a carer.
Can I volunteer with Carers Leeds if I am claiming Job Seekers Allowance or Employment Support Allowance?
Yes, if you are receiving certain benefits, you are still allowed to volunteer. However, there are some rules that you need to be aware of to make sure that your volunteering doesn’t have an impact on the benefits you receive and you must notify your benefits adviser that you want to become a volunteer.
What if I need to take a break from volunteering?
If your circumstances change, don’t feel you have to leave. Talk to your supervisor about your needs and we might be able to arrange for you to have a break from volunteering for a while. And we will be happy to welcome you back when you’re ready.
What happens if I am not happy in my volunteer role?
If you are not happy in your volunteer role talk to your supervisor about how you are feeling. Your supervisor will explore how we can support you and/or what options are available if you are not happy.
What if I decide that volunteering at Carers Leeds isn’t for me?
All volunteers will be asked to complete a three-month trial period. At the end of this time, you can decide not to continue with the arrangement for whatever reason.