Organisation Name:
York Carers Centre
Organisation's Cause(s):
Carers
Local Community
Mental Health
Location of voluntary activity:
City of York – sessions delivered face to face, online, or by telephone.
When are volunteers needed: Counselling / Mental Health Support
Type of Voluntary Activity:
Community Work
Role description:
Volunteer counsellors provide face to face, online, or telephone counselling to unpaid carers living in the City of York. Referrals are assessed before being allocated, and presenting issues vary widely, including loss, stress, self care, relationship difficulties, low mood, and anxiety. Volunteers work with each client for up to 12 sessions and join a friendly team of qualified and trainee counsellors and psychotherapists. Basic IT skills are required; full induction and training on in house systems are provided. Professional Indemnity Insurance is mandatory. A DBS check will be arranged if needed.
Skills and behaviours needed for the role:
• Qualified counsellor or therapist (or working toward accreditation such as BACP or equivalent)
• Ability to commit a few hours per week for at least one year
• Empathy, active listening, and a non judgemental approach
• Understanding of the challenges faced by unpaid carers
• Basic IT skills
• Reliability, professionalism, and good record keeping
Will there be a DBS check? Yes
Driving Licence required? No
Volunteer's own vehicle required? No
Suitable for:
Ongoing Volunteering
Skilled Volunteer
What will the volunteer gain/benefit from:
• Experience supporting unpaid carers in the local community
• Skill development and practice maintenance
• Funded supervision (up to £75 per month while seeing clients)
• CPD opportunities and peer support sessions
• Being part of a supportive counselling team
• Making a meaningful difference to carers’ wellbeing
How to get involved:
Please email an enquiry to volunteering@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk. You will then be contacted by the Counselling Coordinator for an initial conversation about the role.
Web link: Click here
Closing date: 31-12-2026