Volunteering Opportunities for students & young people in Harrogate and Ripon

Volunteering Opportunities
for students & young people
in Harrogate and Ripon
email: volunteer@harcvs.org.uk
www.harvolunteercentres.org.uk
Community House
46-50 East Parade
Harrogate
HG1 5RR
Community House
Sharow View
Allhallowgate
Ripon
HG4 1LE

There are hundreds of organisations in the Harrogate area which involve
volunteers in their work. Different organisations have individual volunteer
policies and so some may not be able to accept volunteers who are under 16
or under 18. For example this may be due to issues such as insurance or
safeguarding of vulnerable individuals.
This is a listing of opportunities in the Harrogate District which welcome
young people and students as volunteers.
What to consider before volunteering?
Organisations are looking for volunteers who are reliable and can make and honour a
commitment. So before you start looking for roles it worth considering:
Whether you would like a short term volunteer role (e.g. helping at an event or volunteering
each week for a month) or a long term volunteer role (e.g. committing to a couple of hours
each week for a year).
How much time you would like to give and what days of the week you are available.
It is also worth thinking about what you would like to get out of volunteering? Many people
volunteer to gain experience or improve their existing skills. If you have a skill or an interest that
you can offer to an organisation let them know about it, for example you may be studying
photography, have an interest in music, a passion for working with young people or want to
become a vet.
What next?
Once you have found a role which interests you it is a good idea to get in touch with the
organisation directly to find out more about the role and when volunteers are needed. The
telephone number and email address of each organisation is provided in this listing. It is worth
noting that most Volunteer Managers are part time and so it may take them a while to get back to
you. If you have not heard back after 2 weeks please email us at volunteer@harcvs.org.uk and
we will help you make contact.
Will I need to fill in any forms or attend an interview?
Many organisations will ask you to complete an application form. Application forms may ask for
your contact details and some basic information about skills or experiences which might be
useful. You will also be asked to provide a couple of references. These can be character
references, for example from a teacher or lecturer.
Most organisations will ask you to come in for an informal chat before you start volunteering. This
is not a formal interview like a job interview and you are under no obligation to volunteer after you
have a met with an organisation if you decide it is not for you.
Some roles may require you to have a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) Check, for example if
you are working with vulnerable people or children. This can take a few weeks. If a role requires
a DBS check is it advisable to apply a month in advance of when you want to start volunteering.
All roles requiring a DBS check have been marked in this listing.
If you would like to come in and discuss local opportunities with us or ask any questions please
get in touch to book an appointment at the Volunteer Centre. We are located in Community
House, 46-50 East Parade, Harrogate, HG1 5RR. Our number is: 01423 509004 or email
volunteer@harcvs.org.uk

This is a listing of opportunities in the Harrogate District which welcome young people
aged 14and over as volunteers.
Bilton Conservation Group
Where: Meeting point is the Nidd Gorge,
Harrogate
When: 1 or 2 Saturdays per month 9.00-12.00pm
Contact: Keith Wilkinson
Tel: 01423 564708
Email: keith2niddgorge@talktalk.net
Bilton Conservation Group is run entirely by volunteers who have an interest in the natural
world. The lively group meet once or twice every month to carry out a whole range of
outdoor rural maintenance activities, including: bird boxing, wildlife habitat improvement,
tree planting, wildlife surveys, rural footpath work, fencing, building and repairing stiles,
and pond building.
Follifoot Park Disabled Riders
Where: Pannal Road, Follifoot, HG3 1DL
When: Rides times are Monday 1.30 & 2.30; Tuesday 9.30, 10.30, 5.00 & 5.45;
Wednesday 9.30, 10.30, 2.00 & 4.45; Thursday 1.45, 6.30 & 7.30;
Friday 10.15; Sunday 3.00 & 4.15
Contact: Wendy Thorburn
Tel: 01423 546161 Email: wendy.thorburn@live.co.uk
The charity provides therapeutic horse riding and carriage driving for children and adults
with a wide variety of disabilities. Volunteers are the essential part of the group and vary in
age and skills and normally give an hour or two each week. You don’t have to know
anything about horses – the group provides full introductory and on-going training so that
you can help make riding an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
The 100 disabled riders at Follifoot range
from two years old to seventy! There are
rides in groups of seven riders
throughout the week. Each rider
requires three support volunteers. This
is a great way to get some fresh air and
exercise, meet new people and make a
real difference! Minimum time
commitment 1 1 / 2 hours per week.
Opportunities for 14+

Opportunities for 14+
Girlguiding Harrogate Units
Where: Schools, Church & Village halls across Harrogate & Knaresborough
When: Monday - Friday depending on unit joined
Contact: Jean Tennant
Tel: 01423 884166 or Mobile 07960206026 Email: jeantguides@btinternet.com
Girlguiding Wetherby Units
Where: Methodist Hall, Bank Street, Wetherby, LS22 6NQ, Kirk Deighton Village Hall,
LS22 4DS & St. James' Hall, Church Street, Wetherby.
When: 7.30-9.00pm Tuesday (Methodist Hall & Kirk Deighton) & Thursday (St. James’)
Contact: Sue Everard Email: Sue@the-everards.co.uk
Girl guiding UK is part of a worldwide
movement which enables girls and young
women to fulfil their potential, to take an
active and responsible role in society through
its distinctive, stimulating and enjoyable
programme delivered by trained volunteer
leaders. Volunteers are female and assist the
group leader with different activities each
week ranging from sports to performing arts and much more. Rainbows meet for 1 hour,
Brownies meet for 75 minutes and Guides meet for 90 minutes.
Knaresborough Nidd Gorge
Where: meet at Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre car park, 50 Bond End, Knaresborough,
HG5 9AL
When: Alternate Saturdays 9.00-12.00pm
Contact: Andrew Willoughby
Tel: 01423 866987 / 07885 543453 Email: andrew.will@hotmail.co.uk
This is a volunteer groups which aim to protect and enhance the environment of
Knaresborough's Nidd Gorge. The team of volunteers go out on alternate Saturday
mornings to carry out conservation work along the Nidd Gorge.
Tasks include footpath maintenance, erecting
bridges and boardwalks, planting native trees
and shrubs, removing invasive species, stream
clearance etc. This is a fairly informal
volunteering opportunity and so volunteers
should be prepared to get stuck in chatting to
other volunteers in the group and getting their
hands dirty with the week’s task. This is ideal for
anyone with an interest in nature.

Opportunities for 14+
Oxfam Shops
Harrogate: 3 Montpellier Parade, Harrogate, HG1 2TJ
When: 4 hour shift Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday
Saturday & Sunday (18+ only)
Contact: Jayne Thorp Tel: 01423 565497
Knaresborough: 14 Market Place, Knaresborough, HG5 8AG
When: 4 hour shifts. Weekday afternoons Tuesday- Thursday
Saturday & Sunday (18+ only)
Contact: Karyn Burnham Tel: 01423 868650
Ripon: 12 Fishergate, Ripon, HG4 1DY
When: 4 hour shift Monday-Saturday 9-5 and Sunday 11.00-3.00
Contact: Natasha Ball Tel: 01765 601441
Oxfam shops raises money through selling fair trade and ethically sourced and donated
goods to fund projects and emergency relief globally through the Oxfam charity.
Volunteers are needed to work behind the scenes with donated stock using a bar-coding
system to categorise goods and attach the appropriate bar-code. Volunteers also put
together window displays and serve customers.
In the Harrogate Craft Volunteers are also needed for the 1st floor Boutique which has a
textiles, home furnishings and a crafting materials 'department' (e.g. Threads, patterns,
wool, lace, patchwork pieces, sewing fabric, beads and buttons etc.). Volunteers are
needed to carry out their favourite crafting activity whilst being available to help
customers and operate the till when needed.
Ripon Museums Trust
Where: The Workhouse Museum, Sharow View, Allhallowgate, HG4 1LE
When: Mon, Thurs, Fri (all) (Sat and Sundays for 18+)
Contact: Wendy Hunwick-Brown
Tel: 01765 690799 Email: admin@riponmuseums.co.uk
Ripon Museum Trust runs 3 museums in Ripon the Old Workhouse, the Police Museum
and the Courthouse Museum.
Volunteers are needed to help out at
the front of house selling tickets and
chatting to customers. There are also
opportunities to do admin and
historical research depending on your
interests. Your chance to get involved in
living history, meet and greet, arts and
crafts and much more! Learn more
about the history of Ripon!

Opportunities for 14+
Save the Children Shop
Where: 18 Commercial Street, Harrogate, HG1 1TY
When: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9.00-5.00, Tuesday afternoon, Thursday
afternoon, 3 out of 4 Saturdays.)
Contact: Frances Scurrah Tel: 01423 509488
Save the Children works in 120 countries to save children’s lives, fight for their rights and
help them fulfil their potential. The Save the Children shop supports with fundraising for
the charity. Volunteers will join a friendly team, helping with sorting and pricing donated
goods, serving customers at the till. Most volunteers do a shift of around 4 hours.
Sue Ryder Care Fundraising Shop
Where: 1A Castlegate, Knaresborough, HG5 8AR
When: Monday-Saturday (9.00-5.00pm) Sunday (10.00-4.00pm)
Contact: Debbie Williams Tel: 01423 797251
Sue Ryder Care provide hospice and neurological care for people facing a frightening, lifechanging
diagnosis. They provide expert medical care as well as emotional and practical
support for patients and their loved ones. The Sue Ryder Care shop supports with
fundraising for the charity.
Volunteers usually do shifts lasting for around 4 hours and help out with tasks such as
sorting, pricing, creating eye catching displays and operating the till point. Volunteers work
with a team of other volunteers and so there will be plenty of chance to chat and get to
know them.
Opportunities for 15+
This is a listing of opportunities in the Harrogate District which welcome students aged
15 or over as volunteers.
British Heart Foundation Shop
Where: 19 Beulah Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QH
When: 9.30-5.00 Mon – Sat and 10.00-4.00pm Sun
Contact: Michelle Syson
Tel: 01423 523295
The British Heart Foundation shop raises money for
the charity which aims to stop people dying
prematurely or suffering from heart disease. Are you passionate about books or music?
Would you like to enjoy using your love to help maintain our specialist books and music
shop. You will be trained in selection, pricing and sales floor duties. You will be doing the
following tasks: sorting, pricing, merchandising, window displays, customer service -
handling lovely old books etc. Volunteers are particularly welcomed for the weekend
opening hours. Volunteers need to be aged 18 and over for till work.

Opportunities for 15+
Harrogate Library
Where: Harrogate Library, Victoria Avenue, Harrogate, HG1 1EG
When: Saturday 9.00-5.00
Contact: Deborah Thornton Tel: 01609 533619
The Library are looking for IT volunteers to hold one to one sessions with older people who
would like to learn how to use modern technology such as iPads. Volunteers are needed
who are confident in using tablets, smart phones and computers and would be patient in
explaining how to use technology in a clear way. Volunteers will be working one to one
with older people in the main library.
United Response
Where: 4 Highgate Park & 47-49 Dalby Avenue, Harrogate
When: 9.00am – 10.00pm everyday
Contact: Wayne Dunn
Tel: 07817 564694
Email: wayne.dunn@unitedresponse.org.uk
Volunteers will be shadowing existing staff as they support people with disabilities to
maintain as independent life as possible whist encouraging people to seek new creative
opportunities. United Response support people to go to the cinema, shopping or for a
meal out. Volunteers in this role need to be prepared to get stuck in and chat to the people
they are supporting.
Opportunities for 16+
This is a listing of opportunities in the Harrogate District which welcome students aged
16 and over as volunteers.
Age UK Shops
Ripon Shop: 7 Old Market Place, Ripon, HG4 1EQ
When: Monday –Saturday 9.00-5.00 and Sunday 10.00-4.00
Contact: Vicki Moorey Tel: 01765 606872
Wetherby Shop: 10 Market Place, Wetherby, LS22 6NE
When: Monday –Saturday 9.00-5.00 and Sunday 10.00-4.00
Contact: Melanie Earnshaw Tel: 01937 588291
Age UK provides support for older people in order that they may lead as fulfilling and
enjoyable a life as possible independently in their own homes. The Age UK shops are in
need of volunteers who can help in running the shop which raises money to support Age
UK’s work. Volunteers will learn how to work the till, keep the shop’s appearance clean and
tidy, price and steam clothes and other tasks which may crop up. All volunteers will receive
training before starting out in the role. Volunteering shifts usually last 4 hours.

Opportunities for 16+
Avalon Ripon Klub (ARK)
Where: Ripon Bowling Club, 26 Bondgate Green, Ripon, HG4 1QW
When: Tue 7.00-9.00pm (term time only)
Contact: Jerry Anderson
Tel: 01423 780315 Email: jerryjanderson@btinternet.com
ARK provides a weekly social meeting place for adults with learning and/or physical
disabilities from Ripon and surrounding areas. ARK meets each Tuesday evening (apart
from school holidays) in Ripon Bowling Club to carry out various activities including music,
drama, games and crafts and pool. Volunteers are needed to work with the members and
help them to enjoy the regular session. This roles is great fun and is extremely rewarding.
Bilton Avalon Club
Where: Bilton Youth Centre, 69 Bilton Lane, Harrogate, HG1 3DT
When: Thursday 7pm - 9.15pm term time
Contact: Maggie Harvey
Tel: 01765 606490 Email: mharvey@hrprs.n-yorks.sch.uk
The Bilton Avalon Club provides leisure and recreation opportunities for people with a
learning disability of all ages (18+) through organised activities. Volunteers are needed to
assist with general club activities, under the guidance of a qualified leader. The group
organise a wide range of activities from playing pool and bingo, to crafts, indoor cricket,
cooking, growing things etc. You would have the opportunity to use your own initiative if
you wanted to introduce new activities.
Bilton Methodist Church Youth Club Helper
Where: Bilton Area Methodist Church, Skipton Road, Harrogate, HG1 3EX
When: Thursday (biweekly) 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Contact: Matt Lunn
Tel: 01423 501533 Email: matt.lunn24@btinternet.com
Do you enjoy working with young people - helping with a busy youth club can be
rewarding and make a real difference. The 'Ultimate' Youth Club relies on volunteers to
help with organising activities and socialising with members. The club aim to have four
volunteers each session so you will have a chance to
make new friends as well as make a difference!
Volunteers help with setting up i.e. Xbox, Wii,
serving tuck shop, tidying, as well as making the
young people feel welcome and cared for.
Volunteers need to enthusiastic, highly motivated
and happy to volunteer with young people.

Opportunities for 16+
Boroughbridge & District Community Care
Where: Gwendolen Court, Southholme Walk, Boroughbridge
When: Wednesday 11.30am and 1.15pm
Contact: Dave Allon
Tel: 01423 324504 Email: boroughbridgecommunitycare@googlemail.com
Boroughbridge Community Care provides care, transportation, recreation and an
information and advice service for the residents of Boroughbridge. The group hold a
weekly Lunch Club each Wednesday, where a two course meal with tea or coffee is
provided for around 30 people. 5 teams of 3 volunteers help to run the lunch club on a
rota system.
Volunteers are needed who can help on one
Wednesday every 5 weeks and occasionally
cover sickness and holiday. You will volunteer
with 2 other volunteers plus 2 Boroughbridge
High School students. Tasks include setting
tables, serving food, clearing tables and
washing up.
Boroughbridge & District Community Care
Where: 1 Hall Square, Boroughbridge, YO51 9AN
When: Friday 10am and 11.30am
Contact: Dave Allon
Tel: 01423 324504
Email: boroughbridgecommunitycare@googlemail.com
Boroughbridge Community Care also runs a weekly Coffee Morning on a Friday where
guests are served with coffee, tea and biscuits. Volunteers are needed who can help to
prepare teas and coffees, wash up and chat to guests.
Friends of Bebra Gardens
Where: Brewerton Street, off Castlegate in Knaresborough
When: Monday 9am-12.00pm
Contact: Andrew Willoughby
Tel: 01423 866987
Email: andrew.will@hotmail.co.uk
The volunteer group meet every Monday morning to
carry out gardening tasks. You would be doing
various tasks in this unusual urban park on the
sloping site on the side of the Nidd Gorge.

Opportunities for 16+
Play Worker – Harrogate Borough Council Disability Project
Where: Fairfax Community Centre, Fairfax Avenue,
Harrogate
When: Saturday 9.30-1.30pm (term time only)
Contact: Danni Mulholland
Tel: 01423 521667
Email: danielle.mulholland@harrogate.gov.uk
PIPA Saturday club offers all children the chance to play,
make a noise, make a mess, paint, cook, and have fun - regardless of their mental or
physical ability. We need enthusiastic, creative patient and caring people to support the
disabled children to allow them to play. If you have any particular activity based skills such
as sports, music, arts, crafts or drama this is a great role to put them to good use!
Harrogate Easier Living Project
Where: Community House, 46-50 East parade, Harrogate, HG1 5RR
When: Mon-Fri 9.00-4.30pm
Contact: Anna Woollven or Lizzie Hughes
Tel: 01423 813093 Email: help@harcvs.org.uk
HELP supports older and vulnerable people to live independently in their own homes.
HELP is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who could assist in the following ways: an IT
office volunteer who could give a couple of hours per week to work on developing their
website, graphic design and social media etc. An outgoing, motivated volunteer to join
their fundraising team. HELP is also looking for volunteers who can help out during the
week with gardening and DIY in the homes of vulnerable people. All volunteers will be
supervised and receive any necessary training.
Harrogate & Knaresborough Toy Library
Where: Harrogate High Youth Centre, Ainsty Road, Harrogate, HG1 4AP & Chain Lane
Community Centre, Chain Lane, Knaresborough, HG5 0AS
When: 10.00-12.00 Mon, Wed & Fri (Harrogate) & 9.30-11.30 Tues (Knaresborough)
Tel: 07598 325039 Email: toylibrary@live.co.uk
Contact: Liz Carlsen
Harrogate & Knaresborough Toy Library work closely
with families by offering play sessions and toy loans.
Volunteers help in busy play sessions by taking
money, making teas and coffees and playing with the
children. This role ideally suits anyone who is
interested in working with children or young people.

Opportunities for 16+
Henshaws Society for Blind People (Arts & Crafts Centre)
Where: 50 Bond End, Knaresborough, HG5 9AL
When: Monday to Friday 9.00-4.00 (Workshop Volunteers)
Sunday 11.00-5.00pm (Café)
Tel: 01423 814384 Email: volunteer@henshaws.org.uk
Henshaws provides support, advice and training to people with a visual impairment and
other disabilities. Volunteers are needed to assist in workshops at the Arts and Crafts
Centre to help with setting out and tidying away, and supporting the Artworkers.
Workshops include: Music, Textiles, Funky Bags, Jewellery, Sculpture, Pottery, Woodwork,
Paper and Horticulture.
On Sundays volunteers are needed to assist in running the café at the Arts and Crafts
Centre which is open to the general public.
Henshaws Society for Blind People (Housing)
Where: Houses are located around Harrogate & Knaresborough
When: Evenings and weekends
Tel: 01423 814384 Email: volunteer@henshaws.org.uk
Henshaws provide supported housing for people with a visual impairment and other
disabilities. Volunteers support people living in Henshaws houses to get out and about.
This could include helping someone to do their shopping or to do sociable activities at the
weekend. This role will is ideally suited for anyone who is thinking of doing a medical
degree or training to be an occupational or physical therapist.
Hospital Radio Request Collector
Contact: Nicola Pollard
Tel: 01423 886228 Email: njapollard@ntlworld.com
Harrogate Hospital radio is run entirely by volunteers. Are
you available in the early afternoons (2-4pm)? Volunteers
are required to go round the wards talking to patients
about hospital radio and collecting music requests for that
night's show.
The Hospital Radio are particularly looking for people to
collect requests on Monday to Friday afternoons. You must
be interested in music and able to advise patients on
choice. You need to be happy to be in a hospital
environment.

Opportunities for 16+
Interact
Where: St Georges Centre, 2 Mornington Terrace, HG1 5DH
When: Friday (Dance night), Monday (Drama Night), Wednesday (FAB club)
Contact: Mary Scurr
Tel: 01423 889494 Email: me.scurr@gmail.com
Interact is an inclusive drama and music scheme
for people over 18 years who may need support
to access drama, dance and music activities. The
group holds three evening events a week Dance
Night, Drama Night and FAB Club. Volunteers are
needed who are prepared to get stuck in and
play games including board games, pool and table tennis, chat to the members and sell
tuck teas and coffee.
Moor-View Kennels—Dog Walkers
Moor View Farm, Peat Lane, Bewerley, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 5JF
Contact: Joanne Brydon
Tel: 01423 711993
Email: enquiries@moor-view.co.uk
Moorview is a busy boarding kennels & cattery
and also a Dog Rescue rehoming centre. We
would welcome volunteers to walk some of our
rescue dogs and help with cleaning and feeding
them, also bathing and grooming. Volunteers
are needed who can commit one hour minimum
between 10am- 4pm each week.
Ripon Community Link Walled Garden
Where: Palace Road, Ripon, HG4 3HN
When: Monday-Friday 10.00-3.30 & Saturday 10.00-3.30 (Café)
Contact: Joy Rayden
Tel: 01765 607461 Email: j.rayden@riponcommunitylink.org.uk
The Walled Garden is one of Ripon Community Link’s projects and provides opportunities
for people with learning disabilities to learn horticulture skills. The Garden grows herbs,
fruit and vegetables which are harvested and sold from their shop. The charity also runs a
café, which is open to the general public. Volunteers are needed to help in the gardens this
could include carrying out general gardening jobs and working 1:1 with someone with a
learning disability to help them to garden. Ripon Community Link will provide a full

Opportunities for 16+
induction and training on working with people with learning disabilities. This role will is
ideally suited for anyone who is planning to do a medical degree or train as an
occupational or physical therapist. On Saturdays volunteers are needed to help with
waiting in the café.
Ripon Salvation Army Shop
Where: 86 North Street, Ripon, HG4 1DP
When: Tuesday – Saturday 9.30-5.00pm
Contact: Pat Clark
Tel: 01765 69265 Email: pat.clark@salvationarmy.org.uk
The Ripon Salvation Army are active in the community providing advice and food parcels to
those in need. The Salvation Army shop helps raise funds for this work. Retail Volunteers
are needed who are happy to meet new people, whilst gaining new skills in a happy fun
atmosphere. You will be helping out by steaming items of clothing and hanging them,
ticketing clothes, sorting bric- a- brac, books, toys and CD's, servicing the shop floor,
helping the public and serving at the till.
Royal British Legion Lister House
Where: Lister House, Southgate, Ripon, HG4 1PG
When: Monday – Friday 8.00am-4.00pm
Contact: Julianne Martin Long
Tel: 01765 694759 Email: jmartinlong@britishlegion.org.uk
Lister House in Ripon is a Royal
British Legion care home for ex
-Service people and their
dependants. Lister House
offers a varied schedule of
activities to its residents, and
volunteers are included in
delivering these activities and
ensuring residents get the
most from them.
Amongst the things on offer are bingo, quizzes, a gardening group and a singing group. If
activities are not your thing, volunteers also come in to spend an hour having a chat and a
cuppa with the residents. Some of the residents speak other languages including French,
German and Arabic so including French, German and Arabic so volunteers with a second
language are particularly welcomed. Times are flexible to suit you.

Opportunities for 16+
Seeing Ear
Online Library Volunteer
Where: From Home
When: Flexible
Contact: Rachel Seymour
Tel: 01424 777466
Email: support@seeingear.org
Seeing Ear help people who want to read but who cannot use ordinary books. The charity
has an online library providing books in a flexible format to support readers with a visual
impairment, dyslexia or a physical disability. Volunteers help to add books to the online
library by editing, styling and formatting Microsoft Word files. Seeing Ear provide training
via email before you start. Every book you go on to edit will provide another opportunity
for someone who struggles with reading ordinary books to take pleasure from reading or
get a fair chance at education.
Supporting Older People
Where: Various Locations around Harrogate
When: By arrangement
Contact: Charlotte O’Brien
Tel: 01423 531490
Email: sop.harrogate@gmail.com
Supporting Older People provides
befriending services to improve the
quality of life for older members of the
Harrogate and District community who
may be lonely or isolated. The charity
runs a visiting service, outings and social
events.
Volunteer befrienders are needed to pop
in to visit an older person for a cuppa
and a chat. The charity matches
volunteers and clients carefully based on
the client's needs and the volunteer's skills and interests. You need to be patient and a
good listener and be sympathetic to improving the quality of life of older people who find
themselves isolated and lonely. Volunteer visitors offer support and friendship, usually on a
weekly basis. This human contact makes a lasting difference, raises self-esteem, maintains
independence and greatly improves quality of life for the older person and, often, the
volunteer. This role would be ideal for anyone thinking of a career in medicine, caring or
therapeutic services.

Opportunities for 16+
Westfield House Care Home
Where: Ripon Road, Killinghall, HG3 2AX
When: by arrangement
Contact: Della Ryder
Tel: 01423 506344
Email: info@westfiedlhousecarehome.co.uk
Westfield House is a residential care home. The care home
require volunteer to provide entertainment for the residents.
Any help would be appreciated, whether you can sing, dance,
play music, perform poems or just lend a helping hand.
Volunteers needs to be naturally empathetic,
understanding, pleasant and have a patient nature.
This is an ideal role for anyone looking to gain experience
in health and social care.
Opportunities for 17+
Carers Time Off
Where: Various locations around Harrogate & Knaresborough
When: Various times
Contact: Christine Boxall
Tel: 01423 500555
Email: carerstimeoff@harcvs.org.uk
The charity organise volunteers who sit with adults for a few hours to enable their carers
to have a break from their caring commitments. Volunteers are needed who can offer their
time to give carers a break from their caring duties.
The charity match volunteers with a family and volunteers typically either sit, chat, read,
reminisce, play cards, watch TV, listen to music or go for a walk with the cared-for person
to allow their carer a break for up to three hours. You would not be asked to do housework
or nursing tasks. Volunteering can be done either on a regular basis or occasionally at
times to suit you. Visits usually last between 2-3 hours at a time and can be either during
the day, in the evening or at the weekend.
Carers Time Off will find a volunteering opportunity which fits in with the times you are
available for. This role is ideally suited to anyone with an interest in going into medicine,
care or therapeutic work.

Opportunities for 17+
Jennyfield Styan Centre
Where: Grantley Drive, Harrogate, HG3 2XU
When: Tuesday 11.00-2.00pm (Lunch club)
Wednesday 6.00-8.00pm (Junior Youth Group)
Contact: Shelley Jones
Tel: 01423 521667
Email: Shelley.Jones@harrogate.gov.uk
The Jennyfield Community Centre runs 2 events during the week
which require volunteer helpers. The Lunch club supports older people to get a hot meal
and volunteers help with serving the meal, clearing up and chatting to the regulars who
attend. The Junior Youth Club runs activities for 8-12 year olds including arts and crafts and
sports. Volunteers are needed who can get stuck in selling tuck and running activities.
Scope Charity Shop
Where: 34 Beulah Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QH
When: Saturday 9.00-5.30
Contact: Sue Lynch
Tel: 01423 501953
Email: lycnh@btinternet.com
Scope exists to make this country a place where disabled people have the same
opportunities as everyone else. Volunteers are needed to help in the Scope shop. You will
need to be happy to talk to customers and make them feel welcome in the shop, operate
the till and keeping an eye on the security of the shop. Volunteers should be able to
commit to 1 hour per week. Providing assistance to customers, operating the till and
various other duties.
Opportunities for 18+
ActionAid UK
Where: Various locations around Harrogate (flexible times)
Contact: Millie Hooke
Tel: 01460 238000
Email: events@actionaid.org
ActionAid is a global movement of people working together to further human rights and
defeat poverty, for all. Volunteers are needed who can help with local fundraising by
placing and emptying collection tins in your local community, including shops, local
businesses and community centres. Volunteers are responsible for collecting money from
the tins, banking the cash on behalf of ActionAid and writing letters of thanks and sending
certificates to supporters. The charity provides necessary training and the appropriate
resources for this role. This role is a great opportunity to get to know new people in your
community and to hone your writing and personal skills.

Opportunities for 18+
Bilton Methodist Church Toast Helper
Where: Bilton Area Methodist Church, Skipton Road, Harrogate,
HG1 3EX
When: Monday 8.30-10.30am
Contact: Matt Lunn
Tel: 01423 501533 Email: matt.lunn24@btinternet.com
Toast is a drop-in for parents and carers who are on the school run.
Based at the Methodist Church the group rely on volunteers to socialize with children and
families. Volunteers offer two hours on a Monday. The group have a rota system so
volunteers can chose how often they wish to volunteer. Toast aim to have two volunteers
each session so you will have a chance to make new friends as well as make a difference!
Volunteers help with setting up i.e. table laying, refreshments and toast.
Craft Aid International
Where: Harrogate Hospital & St. Andrew's Church Hall, High Street, Starbeck
When: Tuesday 9.50-11.10am (Harrogate) & Thursday 12.30-3.00 (Starbeck).
Contact: Susie Hart
Tel: 01423 202734
Email: Susie.hart@craftaidinternational.org
Craft Aid provide people with disabilities an
opportunity to learn craft-based skills and to use
these to serve disabled people living in poverty in
the developing world. Volunteers are needed to help
at weekly craft sessions for adults with disabilities
and learning disabilities. No specific skills are
required but patience and compassion are essential.
An interest in arts and crafts would be useful but Craft Aid will show you exactly what is
needed at each session. The sessions are staffed by a qualified craft instructor and
accompanying volunteers.
Harrogate and District Scouts (Young Leaders)
Where: Schools, Church halls and Village halls across Harrogate
When: Monday - Friday depending on unit joined and occasional weekends
Contact: Helen Westmancoat
Tel: 01423 867302
Email: dc.hands@nys.org.uk
Scouting aims to help young people achieve their full physical, intellectual, social and
spiritual potentials, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and

Opportunities for 18+
international communities. Using a progressive programme for personal development, by
taking part in a whole variety of activities and new experiences such as, camping, climbing,
water activities, air activities and land activities.
Young leaders are able to join from the
age of 14 in their area (Ripon & Boroughbridge).
Adult leaders assist with running
groups and are aged 18+. Adult leaders
need to complete training modules which
are held at weekends and assessed face to
face by the trainer. Leader helpers will also
need to complete safety training and safeguarding
training. This is a longer term
commitment to Scouting and following
training leadership skills can be used within any Scout pack across the country.
Harrogate & District Sea Cadet Unit (T. S. Cleopatra)
Where: Springfield Mews, Harrogate, HG1 2HP
When: Monday (seniors), Wednesday (band), Thursday (juniors) and Friday (seniors)
7pm-9 pm (some training at weekends)
Contact: Ged Williams
Tel: 07753270904
Email: suegedwilliams@aol.com
The Sea Cadet organisation aims to encourage valuable personal attributes and high
standards of conduct in young people, using a nautical
theme based on the customs of the Royal Navy.
The Sea Cadets are looking for adult instructors who
can help in running the Sea Cadets groups. This role
offers the chance to take part in business, professional
and personal training leading to national qualifications.
Leaders will support the groups in learning new skills
and trying new activities.
The Junior sea cadets are aged 10-12 years and senior
cadets are aged 12-18 years. The group are particularly
interested in volunteers with musical experience who
could support the band on a Wednesday evening.

Opportunities for 18+
Harrogate District Food Bank
Where: Mowbray Community Church,
St Cuthberts School, Pateley Bridge &
Trinity Church, Briggate,
Knaresborough, HG5 8BQ
When: Thurs 10.30-12.30 (Pateley Bridge)
& Mon 10.30-12.30 (Knaresborough)
Contact: Linda Macrow
Tel: 01423 553812
Email: info@harrogatedistrict.foodbank.org.uk
The Harrogate Foodbank provide 3 day food parcels to vulnerable people in a crisis
situation who are unable to afford to buy food. The foodbank is run entirely by volunteers
who help to collect and sort donations and distribute food parcels. Volunteers are needed
to help with sorting donated food ready for distribution, to meet with clients and give out
food at the foodbank distribution centres and to help out at foodbank supermarket
collection days (occasional weekends).
‘I volunteer because of something that
touched me personally.’ Kirstie, Harrogate
Teaspoons of time create heaps of gratitude
“I started volunteering 7 years ago when I was recovering from
being poorly and spending a lot of time on my own. I had done a
short counselling course at college and I wanted to keep busy
doing something which used those skills. I also had a sister who
was housebound at age 25 so when the Volunteer Centre suggested I could help others
who are isolated I knew what it was like personally.
Through ‘Carers Time Off’ I’ve been linked to a number of people over the years, giving
whatever time I can. Currently I support a lady who lives alone who can’t walk unaided.
Sometimes we just chat and drink tea, other times I’ll walk round the block with her. My
visits just break her day up. I visit about once a week for an hour. I keep in touch with all
the people I’ve visited in the past, or their families. I think volunteering has got to be
something you feel personally about. I feel, even though what I do is small, I’m helping
people and I like to keep busy.”

Harrogate & Ripon Volunteer Centre is an independent charity
supporting people in the Harrogate District to find out about and get
involved in volunteering. In an average week...
We rely on the generous support of individuals who donate towards our
service. If you have received information and advice from the Volunteer
Centre and would like to make a donation towards our services there are
different ways you can do so:
Donate Online: To make a secure online donation please visit
www.everyclick.com/harcvs
Donate when you shop online: Sign up to www.giveasyoulive.com/
charity/harcvs and we will receive a donation each time you shop online.
The donation comes directly form the retailer so it doesn’t cost you a penny
extra.
If you would like further advice about any aspect of volunteering please get
in touch with us at:
Volunteer Centre (Harrogate Office)
Community House
46-50 East Parade
Harrogate
HG1 5RR
Tel: 01423 509004
Volunteer Centre (Ripon Office)
Community House
Sharow View, Allhallowgate
Ripon
HG4 1LE
Email:
volunteer@harcvs.org.uk
www.harvolunteercentres.org.uk
/HarrogateVC
@HgateRiponVC
Harrogate & Ripon Volunteer Centres are an integral part of
Harrogate & Area Council for Voluntary Service Limited
Company limited by guarantee. Registered in England and Wales.
Charity No. 1144758 Company No.7760477