Volunteer opportunities with the British Red Cross

Make a difference in your community through a volunteer role. Develop new skills, meet like-minded people and make a meaningful impact.

Volunteering with the British Red Cross is an opportunity to make a real difference. Not only will you enjoy a truly rewarding experience and gain new skills, but you’ll also be there to provide vital support to people when they need it most.

You’ll join a group of local volunteers who are passionate about helping others—and you might even make some great new friends along the way. We have a variety of roles to suit all kinds of interests and skills. Not sure where to start? Explore the opportunities and find the perfect fit for you.

How do I apply?

Start your journey as a British Red Cross volunteer:

  • Find a role near you.
  • Complete the application form. You’ll get a confirmation email where you can track your application.
  • One of our friendly recruiters will be in touch to arrange a phone conversation to discuss the opportunity with you.
  • Depending on the role, additional checks may be required. These will be discussed with you on the phone.
  • Full training for the role will be provided.



Where can I volunteer?

We have a wide range of volunteering opportunities across the UK so it should be easy to find one that fits your free time.

Or search for a volunteer role near you.


Why volunteer for the British Red Cross?

Volunteering with the British Red Cross offers countless benefits, from learning new skills and improving your mental health to making a meaningful contribution to the world. As the world’s emergency responders, we’re here for humanity, providing vital support in times of crisis.

Most of our roles are for people aged 18+ but there are opportunities for teenagers aged 15 and over. We also welcome applications from people with experience of being a refugee or asylum seeker.

By volunteering with us, you’ll not only gain valuable experience but also contribute to a global mission of care and compassion. Join us and make an impact today.


of volunteers feel like they’re making a difference.

say it improves their mental health and wellbeing.

say it provides them with new skills and experience.

Volunteering stories

Our incredible volunteers respond to emergencies across the UK. From helping people in crisis to styling charity shop windows, learn more about the difference we’ve made together.

Matt shop volunteer 1084 x 610


“My favourite thing about volunteering is the people...it gives me positivity.”

- Matt, charity shop volunteer

Read about Matt’s volunteering journey.


Hatim, a volunteer with the British Red Cross, looks relaxed and smiles at the camera.

"Helping others is my medicine"

Hatim is a PhD student and a volunteer with the British Red Cross’s Refugee Support team in Birmingham. Here, Hatim shares his passion for helping young people settle into life in the UK.

content type Article estimated reading time 4 minutes
Kat, a British Red Cross volunteer, wears a British Red Cross t-shirt and stands against a colourful wall of graffiti.

Kat's journey as a British Red Cross volunteer

Here, British Red Cross volunteer Kat describes finding their community, the power of young volunteers’ voices and launching pronoun pins.

content type Article estimated reading time 4 minutes
Alex-volunteer-who-supported-arrivals-from-Sudan-landscape

"Seeing her run towards them brought tears to my eyes"

Alex was one of the British Red Cross volunteers who supported people arriving from Sudan to UK airports earlier this year. Here, she describes two encounters she'll never forget.

content type Article estimated reading time 4 minutes