Overview
Join to apply for the Family Support Volunteer - Blackpool role at Rainbow Trust Children's Charity.
Location: Blackpool
Closing date: 30 January 2026
Salary: We will reimburse reasonable out-of-pocket travel expenses.
Rainbow Trust provides families who have a child with a life threatening or terminal illness with expert, practical and emotional support, where they need it for as long as it is needed.
Your Role
As a Family Support Volunteer, you will provide additional support to the families we work with by either volunteering alongside our Family Support Workers, or supporting families independently.
Responsibilities
* Social support for siblings, e.g. support with interests, craft and play activities, or helping with homework
* Accompanying the family on days out or sibling trips during school holidays
* Accompanying the family to hospital appointments
* Practical support in the family home, such as housework, shopping or gardening
What We’re Looking For
* An excellent communicator who can build relationships with children and young people
* Experience of interacting with people from a wide variety of backgrounds
* Experience of interacting with children and young people
* Confidence in working with children and young people with complex health needs
* Ability to empathise with families in stressful circumstances
* Non-judgemental, warm, friendly and with a sense of humour
* Commitment to following safeguarding, professional boundaries and confidentiality policies
* A full driving licence and use of your own transport may be required in some locations
* All ages from 18 onwards are welcome
Your Commitment
* Requirements for support can vary, but you are asked to volunteer for one session per week, Monday–Friday, during the day
* We are looking for volunteers who can commit to the role for the next 12 months
Training and Support
* A dedicated Rainbow Trust staff member will guide and support you
* You will receive a full induction and relevant training, including safeguarding, active listening, bereavement, health and safety, confidentiality and GDPR
* Further modules are available for you to develop your knowledge
* All volunteers will receive regular one-to-one support and supervision sessions
Why Rainbow Trust?
* We are a Sunday Times Top 100 Not-for-Profit organisation and a leading charity for children and young people
* Professional training and opportunities to develop your skills
* Join a friendly and welcoming team and make a valuable contribution to the families we support
* A calendar of volunteer social events, including Christmas events and Volunteers’ Week celebrations
* Out-of-pocket travel expenses reimbursed
Ready to apply?
* Get in touch with our Volunteering Team by email at volunteering@rainbowtrust.org.uk or call 01372 363438 for more information about volunteering with us
Selection Process
* Enrolment form, references, interview, and DBS check
Please note: We will only process applications from volunteers who are resident in the UK and who have the relevant immigration permits. We are unable to sponsor Charity Worker Visas.
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