Various roles - Leeds

​Lived experience of struggling with self-harm is required*

What are we looking for?We’re looking for adult volunteers of all genders with creative, social, DIY, or gardening skills to help out at our South Leeds premises. Volunteers who have used Battle Scars services are welcome, but it’s not a requirement — anyone with the right skills and enthusiasm can apply. 
​Please note there is a full application and selection process, so not everyone who applies will be recruited.

How could these volunteers help?Our daytime groups at Onward include social time before and after support sessions, with creative activities like arts, crafts, and writing, board games, or just chatting — all advertised in advance. Volunteers join in these activities and offer support to anyone feeling vulnerable. 
​Other roles include helping run services, maintaining the building, or tending the garden — with tasks to suit a variety of skills. Neurodiverse volunteers are especially welcome. For our over-50s peer support group, volunteers aged 50+ are ideal.

Location:
​Onward Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub, Onward House, Millshaw Park Way, Leeds, LS11 0LS
Days:
- Thursdays for helping out with social time activities - not required to help out every week but a regular pattern would be helpful (11:00-12:30 - encouraged to stay for the group)
​- ​Fridays for helping out with social time activities for the 50+ group - same as above, not expected to help every week (11:00-12:30 - encouraged to stay for the group)
​- Days/times of your choice to help out with the building or the garden

What training do we provide?
All volunteers need to attend Safeguarding and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion training. Further training opportunities are also available, such as our courses on self-harm, eating disorders, personality disorders, autism and many more. 

How do the volunteers benefit and what support do they get?Volunteers are valued members of our team, gaining the chance to build on existing skills, learn new ones, and use their lived experience to help others — all while finding a sense of purpose. We provide role-specific training, opportunities for further development, and ongoing support from our volunteer manager, staff, and experienced volunteers. 
​These roles are suitable for people of all ages and can be a great addition to a CV. Travel expenses can be covered up to £5.

Does this role require a DBS check?
Most of these roles require a DBS check depending on frequency of volunteering. The cost is covered by Battle Scars. ​

*Lived experience means that you self-harm or that you are struggling with self-harm urges now or in the past.

If you would like to apply, please fill in an application form. If you'd like more information, please contact the volunteer manager. 

“The role of facilitator in our peer support groups is incredibly important – this is where the charity began, bringing people together and offering support from individuals who have had similar lived experiences. “Our facilitators are able to develop creative ideas for topics and develop skills around how to facilitate groups, and how to support others who are struggling with their mental health. They are part of a team of individuals from across the UK who take great pride in facilitating our groups, and there is a real sense of belonging that we are keen to continue to foster.” 
Volunteer Manager