Give your time, share your skills, and help young people stay connected to their education during illness.
Volunteer with us
Our volunteers are at the heart of Bright Futures UK. Whether you tutor, mentor, or offer companionship, you help young people continue academic learning, build social connection, and grow confidence in their future through serious illness. We provide full training, ongoing support, and flexible opportunities so you can make an impact that fits your lifestyle.
Volunteering Programmes
Help young people stay on track with their studies during long-term illness. You’ll provide one-to-one academic support, boosting confidence and helping them reach their learning goals.
Guide young people through life beyond the classroom. As a mentor, you’ll help them build life skills, explore career options, and prepare for the future with your encouragement and advice.
Sometimes, what matters most is simply having someone to talk to. Befrienders offer companionship, share hobbies, and reduce feelings of isolation for young people facing serious illness.
Bring your passions to life in fun, interactive workshops. From art and drama to coding or wellbeing, you’ll help young people discover new interests and build confidence in a relaxed group setting.
Application Process
01
Fill out our quick online application form and tell us a bit about yourself, your skills, and what kind of volunteering you’re interested in.
02
Please complete your onboarding promptly. This includes a short interview, DBS check, providing references, and an induction and safeguarding training.
03
We’ll carefully match you with a young person or programme that fits your experience, interests, and availability, then support you to begin your first sessions and get your journey underway.
Listen to Poppy share her experience of being a volunteer with Bright Futures UK, and giving you more details on what you can expect from your volunteering journey with us.
FAQs
Adults aged 18 and over in the United Kingdom who want to help children and young people keep learning during or after illness. We welcome students, graduates, and professionals who share our belief that education is a right for every young person.
Around one hour a week for a regular session, plus a little to plan and reflect. We agree on a consistent schedule together.
No. Some volunteers are qualified teachers, many are not. We match you based on subject knowledge, interests, and communication style, and we provide training and resources.
Apply online, have a brief interview, provide references, complete training and background checks, and then we match you with a young person. Matching time depends on your skills, availability, and current referrals.
We consider the child or young person’s goals, subjects, interests, preferred times, and access needs alongside your strengths and availability. We aim for a consistent weekly session that builds trust and community around the young person.