Volunteering for Young People
Volunteering with Little Miracles is a fantastic way for young people aged 14 and over to build confidence, gain experience and make a real difference to families of children with additional needs, disabilities and life-limiting conditions.
Whether you're looking to develop new skills, complete your Duke of Edinburgh Award, boost your CV or simply give something back to your community, we offer meaningful volunteering opportunities in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.
We work closely with schools, colleges, Duke of Edinburgh participants and community groups to help young people get involved in a way that works for them.
Build Confidence and Gain Real-World Experience
Volunteering is about so much more than helping out. It's an opportunity to learn, grow and discover what you're capable of.
By volunteering with Little Miracles, young people can:
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Develop communication and teamwork skills
- Gain valuable experience for future education and employment
- Meet new people and make friends
- Learn more about supporting children and families in their community
- Undertake training that is great for your CV
Many of our young volunteers tell us that volunteering has helped them feel more confident, independent and connected to something meaningful.
What Young Volunteers Can Get Involved In
There are lots of ways to get involved, and every volunteer brings something unique.
Depending on your interests and the needs of each session, you might:
- Help prepare activities and resources
- Support children during sessions and events
- Assist with setting up and packing away
- Get involved in themed activity days and family events
- Support behind the scenes with practical tasks
Some volunteers enjoy working directly with children, while others prefer helping behind the scenes. Every role plays an important part in creating positive experiences for the families we support.
Duke of Edinburgh and School Volunteering
We warmly welcome young people completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award, as well as those volunteering through school or college programmes.
Our team can help you complete your required volunteering hours while gaining meaningful, hands-on experience in a supportive environment.
If you're looking for a more structured placement linked to a course or career pathway, you may also be interested in our Professional and Student Placements programme.
Many young people search for volunteering opportunities near them or ways to complete their Duke of Edinburgh volunteering section. Little Miracles offers local opportunities where you can gain experience, develop skills and make a genuine difference in your community.
A Safe, Supportive and Inclusive Environment
We want every young volunteer to feel welcome, valued and supported from day one.
All volunteers are assigned a dedicated Line Manager who will provide guidance, answer questions and support them throughout their volunteering journey.
You'll receive an induction and clear information about your role so you feel confident and prepared. Safeguarding, wellbeing and inclusion are always at the heart of what we do.
Where required, DBS checks and training are provided by Little Miracles at no cost, provided volunteers complete at least 10 hours with us.
As a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to making volunteering accessible and inclusive for everyone.
Who Can Volunteer?
We welcome young people from all backgrounds, abilities and experiences.
You don't need any previous volunteering experience to get started. What matters most is a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and a desire to help others.
Young people with additional needs are encouraged to apply, and we'll work with you to ensure you feel comfortable, supported and able to thrive in your role.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age do I need to be to volunteer?
Young people can volunteer with Little Miracles from the age of 14. Opportunities are available for those in school, college and the early stages of their career.
Do I need experience to volunteer?
No. We provide support, guidance and training where needed, so you can feel confident in your role.
Can volunteering count towards Duke of Edinburgh?
Yes. We regularly support young people completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award and can help you work towards your required volunteering hours.
Is there any training?
Yes, all volunteers are required to do our mandatory online training. For more information about what this entails, please contact us.
What kind of tasks will I be doing?
You may help prepare activities, support children's sessions, assist at events or help with practical tasks behind the scenes. Every session is a little different.
Will I be supervised?
Yes. All young volunteers receive support from a dedicated Line Manager and are guided throughout their volunteering experience.
Do I need a DBS check?
If you are 16 or older, some roles may require a DBS check. If one is needed, we'll guide you through the process and cover the cost if you volunteer for at least 10 hours.
Can I volunteer if I have additional needs?
Absolutely. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will work with you to make sure you feel supported, comfortable and able to participate fully.
How do I apply?
Simply complete our volunteer application form. If you're applying through a school, college or organised programme, please mention this when you get in touch.
How to Get Started
Ready to start your volunteering journey?
The first step is to complete our volunteer application form and tell us a little about yourself.
If you're applying through a school, college or community group, please include this in your enquiry so we can make sure you receive the right support.
If you'd like to chat with someone before applying, we'd love to hear from you. Email us at volunteering@littlemiraclescharity.org.uk or call 01733 262226.
Explore More Volunteering Opportunities
There are lots of ways to get involved with Little Miracles. You may also be interested in:
Start Your Volunteering Journey
Volunteering with Little Miracles is a chance to build confidence, gain valuable experience, make new connections and support families who need it most.
Take the first step today and discover the difference you can make.
