Volunteering at St Oswald's Hospice

Here you will find all the latest volunteering opportunities at St Oswald's Hospice.

View our current volunteering opportunities

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with St Oswald’s

We update this page with our current volunteering opportunities and role descriptions. If you’d like to apply for a role, please return your completed form to volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org.

Please note, we are only able to accept application forms specifically for the available volunteering opportunities shown on this page. If you’re still interested in volunteering but can’t find a suitable role today, please keep checking back for new opportunities soon.

View our current volunteering opportunities

Get prepared!

St Oswald’s Hospice is keen to recruit volunteers from a variety of backgrounds, to ensure that everybody has a chance to contribute to the development of our organisation and get valuable personal and professional experience along the way. Every volunteer application is followed up by an informal interview, during which staff aim to understand volunteer applicants’ skills, experience, achievements and motivations.

You can find our informal interview questions as well as the volunteer journey on this page – we are hoping that providing this form ahead of time will give future volunteers the best opportunity to feel prepared and informed and to provide a warm, inclusive welcome.

Useful links and downlaods

Download our Volunteer journey
Download our informal interview questions
Download the People Charter for Volunteers
Download Volunteer handbook
Download Volunteer recruitment accessibility guide

Hospice volunteering roles

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Lymphoedema Volunteers

Join our Lymphoedema Service and help make a genuine difference to people’s lives. We’re looking for compassionate, reliable volunteers who can bring comfort, confidence and kindness to our patients and support our dedicated clinical team. In this hands-on role, you’ll help prepare clinic rooms, support treatments (including bandaging, skin care and simple measurements), and offer a friendly, reassuring presence that patients truly value. Full training is provided — just bring your enthusiasm and a caring nature.

Current Vacancies

Gosforth Clinics

  • Morning Clinics (9am–12 noon): Monday – Friday
  • Afternoon Clinics (1pm–4pm): Monday – Thursday

Blaydon Community Clinic

  • Tuesdays, 9am–4pm

A fantastic opportunity to join one of our practitioners in a supportive and welcoming community outreach setting.

If you are warm, well-organised, and enjoy supporting others, we’d love to hear from you.

Download role description Apply now
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Adult Inpatient Unit Mealtime Assistance Volunteer

Join our mealtime volunteer team and help turn meals into moments of comfort, dignity and connection for patients on our Adult Inpatient Unit.

Why this role matters

You will:

  • Offer a friendly, reassuring presence
  • Help patients feel safe and supported
  • Contribute to a caring, patient-focused team

What’s involved

  • 2-hour shifts: 11:30–13:30 or 16:00–18:00
  • Assisting patients with meals and drinks
  • Full training provided, including safe feeding and care charts
  • Working alongside our nursing and catering teams

Perfect for anyone empathetic, people-focused, or exploring a future in health or social care.

Download role description Apply now
John Docherty Ward Helper at St Oswald's Hospice_

Ward Helper Volunteers

Our amazing Adult Inpatient Unit is looking for extra helping hands! We are looking to recruit a number of Ward Helper Volunteers to provide a food and drinks service to our patients. You will be volunteering alongside our fabulous Catering and Ward teams and provide a friendly presence for patients and their families – primarily listening and offering informal companionship when needed. Current vacancies available are:

  • Morning Coffee – 10am – 11:30am on Wednesdays
  • Lunch – 12.15pm – 1.45pm Monday – Friday
  • Afternoon Tea – 2pm- 3.30pm on Monday, Tuesday and Fridays
Download role description Apply now
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Hairdressing Volunteers 

Are you a skilled and compassionate hairdresser looking to use your expertise in a deeply meaningful way? 

Join us to provide gentle trims, simple styling, and beard care in a warm, supportive space. Your skills will help patients feel valued and comforted. 

We seek experienced, empathetic hairdressers or barbers who can commit to one day a month, working with individuals facing life-limiting conditions. 

A simple trim or soothing scalp massage can brighten someone’s day. If you’re ready for a rewarding experience, we’d love to welcome you to our compassionate team! 

Download role description Apply now
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Bereavement Support Volunteer

Are you a calm, compassionate listener who wants to make a real difference during one of life’s most difficult times? 

At St Oswald’s Hospice, we understand the deep impact of loss. Our bereavement team supports individuals and families as they navigate grief — but we can’t do it alone. 

We’re looking for volunteers to offer a listening ear and gentle support to people coping with the death of a loved one. You’ll help them explore their feelings and promote healthy grieving in a safe, supportive space. 

Why volunteer with us? 

  • Make a meaningful difference when it matters most 
  • Grow personally through powerful, shared human experiences 
  • Join a warm, supportive team of staff and volunteers 
  • Enjoy flexible volunteering that fits around your life 
  • Receive full training to feel confident in your role 

We ask for a commitment of around 12 months so we can provide consistent support to those who need us.

Please note: Full training is provided, but you’ll need to attend all sessions in our 9-part programme, which runs over 8 weeks. We are recruiting now for our May 2026 training course running on Wednesdays 9.30-12.30 starting on the 6th May 2026.

Download role description Apply now
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Podiatry Volunteer

Are you a qualified podiatrist? Would you like to use your skills to help give compassionate care to people living with life-limiting conditions? 

We are looking for someone to offer toenail cuts, general foot and lower limb care, and footcare education for our patients and staff. You will also need to be able to recognise signs of infection and report this to our nursing team. 

Your role will help to provide patients with a sense of normalcy and dignity during a challenging time. 

If you would like to support the wellbeing of our patients in a warm and welcoming environment, we would love to hear from you! 

Download role description Apply now
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Gardening Volunteers

Are you enthusiastic about gardening? Ready to make a difference to the lives of our patients and families?

We’re looking to expand our volunteer team and would love to hear from anyone with a passion for gardening and skill to share as a Gardening Volunteer!

Download role description Apply now
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Facilities Volunteer (Maintenance)

Our fantastic Facilities Team is looking for helping hands to support a wide variety of tasks right across the Hospice. If you’re a dab hand at DIY and have practical maintenance skills to share or develop, we’d love to hear from you! This role supports our friendly and busy team in keeping our clinical areas, offices and other spaces in good working order as a safe and welcoming place to be.

We are currently recruiting two volunteers for this role.

Download role description Apply now

Retail volunteering roles

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Shop Volunteer

Our fabulous shops are always looking to boost their volunteer power! You’ll be part of day to day shop life – customer service, processing donations and ensuring your retail space is inviting, organised and safe for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you see yourself creatively dressing windows, sorting and preparing stock, or front and centre behind the till, retail volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people, gain experience and skills for your CV and of course to generate income for our wonderful Hospice.

If you would like to find out more information about any of our shop volunteer roles, please email us below stating which shop/shops you would like to volunteer at. (Find your local St Oswald’s shop here).

Email volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org
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Shop Volunteer - Gateshead

Our Gateshead shop is looking for new volunteers to join the team. From serving customers on the till and sorting donations to creating eye-catching displays and stocking our shelves, there’s a role for everyone! It’s a great way to meet new people, gain retail experience, and support the Hospice.

Have you heard? We’ll soon be opening a new shop in Gateshead! It’s a fantastic time to get involved as our volunteers will play a key role in making the store a go-to spot for local shoppers and donors.

If you’re interested in lending a hand, pop into the shop or email volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org

Address: 31 Jackson Street, Gateshead, NE8 1EE

Tel: 0191 478 7261

Email volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org
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Shop Volunteer - North Shields

Our North Shields shop is looking for new volunteers to join the team. From serving customers on the till and sorting donations to creating eye-catching displays and stocking our shelves, there’s a role for everyone! It’s a great way to meet new people, gain retail experience, and support the Hospice.

If you’re interested in lending a hand, pop into the shop or email volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org

Address: 49 Bedford Street, North Shields, NE29 0SZ

Tel: 0191 258 3763

Email volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org
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Van Crew Volunteers

Might you enjoy helping us by volunteering with our Van Crew? We would love to take on some more Van Assistant volunteers to support our brilliant Drivers. You’ll be involved in the moving and handling of large household items, and making collections / deliveries from our shops around the region.

The role will be based at Kingston Park and will suit someone keen to support us in a physically demanding volunteer role, within a friendly team. Days optional Monday to Friday, 8am – 4pm.

If you would like to apply or find out more information about the role, please email us through the link below.

volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org
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Volunteer Book Scanner

Location: Various Locations. Role available in all of our shops. Find your local shop here.  

Schedule: Flexible hours, Monday – Saturday  

About the Role: Join our team as a Volunteer Book Scanner and help raise funds for St Oswald’s Hospice! In this role, you’ll use an online platform called Shopiago to scan barcodes of donated books, CDs and DVDs – helping to maximise the money we raise. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to volunteer in a non-customer-facing role with flexible hours. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Scan barcodes using a laptop or tablet. 
  • Assess quality of books, CDs and DVDs to ensure they’re suitable for resale. 
  • Pack books for shipping. 

Why Volunteer With Us? 

  • Flexible Schedule: Volunteer as much or as little as you like. 
  • Inclusive: Open to people of all abilities. 
  • Meaningful Impact: Your efforts help us raise funds for our important work in the community. 

Who Should Apply? Anyone interested in a simple, flexible volunteering opportunity. This role is perfect if you prefer to work behind the scenes or if you’re looking for a way to make a difference without a fixed schedule. 

How to Get Involved: Contact us to learn more and start making a difference today! Email volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org  to find out more or pop into your local shop.  

volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org Meet Frank, one of our Volunteer Book Scanners
St Oswald's Hospice eBay shop

Volunteer eBay Sales Assistant

Location: St Oswald’s Hospice Retail Hub, Ouseburn, Ouse Street, NE1 2AG 

About the Role: As an eBay Sales Assistant volunteer at St Oswald’s Hospice, you will play a vital role in identifying and listing valuable items from our donations for sale on our popular eBay page. This role involves selecting items with high resale potential, creating compelling listings, and assisting with packaging and shipping sold items. Your efforts will directly support the hospice’s charitable mission. 

Key Responsibilities: 

•Review and assess donated items to select those suitable for online sale.
• Research and identify items with high resale value, including collectibles, fashion, electronics, and more. 
• Create detailed and attractive eBay listings, including writing descriptions, setting prices, and uploading photos. 
• Assist with the packing and shipping of sold items, ensuring they are securely packaged for delivery. 

Ideal Candidate: 

• Strong interest in e-commerce and online sales. 
• Ability to identify valuable items and knowledge of market trends. 
• Good written communication skills for crafting engaging product descriptions. 
• Detail-oriented with an eye for presentation. 
• Reliable, with a willingness to learn and adapt. 

Benefits: 

• Gain experience in online retail and e-commerce. 
• Contribute to a meaningful cause by supporting St Oswald’s Hospice. 
• Be part of a dynamic and friendly team. 
• Enhance your skills in product evaluation, listing, and sales management. 

How to Apply: Interested in helping us raise funds through online sales? Contact our team at Ouseburn@stoswaldsuk.org to apply or for more information. 

Don’t take our word for it, read about our eBay volunteer Dave’s experience working with us here. 

Contact our Ouseburn team
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Sorting Volunteer

Location: St Oswald’s Hospice Retail Hub, Ouseburn, Ouse Street, NE1 2AG 

About the Role: As a Sorting Volunteer at St Oswald’s Hospice, you will play a crucial role in the initial processing of donations. Working under the guidance of the Retail Stock Team Leader, you will be responsible for sorting, categorising, and preparing donated items for distribution to our network of charity shops. Your efforts will ensure that high-quality stock is efficiently processed and made available to generate funds for the hospice. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Assist in the sorting of incoming donations, ensuring items are placed in appropriate categories (e.g., clothing, accessories, books, homeware). 
  • Identify and set aside high-value or specialty items for further evaluation. 
  • Ensure that damaged or unsellable items are properly disposed of or recycled, in line with the hospice’s sustainability goals. 
  • Help maintain an organized and tidy warehouse environment by ensuring that sorted items are stored correctly and labelled appropriately. 

Ideal Candidate: 

  • Attention to Detail: Keen eye for quality and the ability to accurately assess the condition of donated items. 
  • Team Player: Willingness to work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff, contributing to a positive and productive team environment. 
  • Reliable and Committed: Punctual and dependable, with a commitment to supporting the hospice’s mission. 

Benefits: 

  • Contribute to a Meaningful Cause: Your work will directly support St Oswald’s Hospice, helping to provide care and support to those in need. 
  • Gain Experience in Retail Operations: Develop valuable skills in stock management, quality control, and warehouse operations. 
  • Be Part of a Supportive Community: Join a team of like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference. 

How to Apply:
Interested in joining our team as a Sorting Volunteer? Contact Ann Traynor (AnnTraynor@stoswaldsuk.org) to apply or for more information. 

Contact Ann Traynor
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Donation Point Receptionist Volunteer

Location: St Oswald’s Hospice Donation Point, Ouse Street, Byker, NE1 2AG 

About the Role: We’re looking for someone to provide a warm welcome to supporters donating their second-hand items at our new Donation Point in Ouseburn!

Key Responsibilities:

  • To meet and greet people donating their second-hand goods
  • To encourage all donors to sign up to Gift Aid where possible. If donors are already signed up, to ask them for their Gift Aid number to add to their bags of donations
  • Answering and forwarding phone calls to the sorting team and event venue, the space
  • Ensuring the Donation Point remains tidy throughout the day

Ideal Candidate:

  • Friendly and approachable
  • Organised and adaptable
  • Comfortable and physically able to move donations from reception into the sorting area (Desirable but not essential)

Benefits: 

  • Gain experience in the fashion retail sector. 
  • Be part of a supportive and enthusiastic team, based at our newest location.
  • Contribute to a charitable cause, helping fund the vital work of St Oswald’s Hospice. 

 

 

 

Download role description Apply now
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Volunteer Administrator (Retail Collection Line)

Are you organised, friendly, and love a good chat? Do you enjoy helping things run smoothly behind the scenes? If so, we’d love to have you on board as a Volunteer Administratorwith our Retail Collection Line. 

In this volunteer role, you’ll be the friendly voice on the phone and the helpful person behind the emails, assisting with booking collections of donated goods and house clearances. You’ll also support with general admin tasks to keep everything running like clockwork. 

What you’ll be doing:

  • Chatting with donors over the phone and answering email enquiries
  • Booking in collections using our simple IT system
  • Helping with general admin tasks to support our team 

What we’re looking for:

  • Someone with great communication skills who enjoys speaking to people
  • Organised and reliable with a keen eye for detail
  • Comfortable using a computer
  • A friendly, positive attitude and a willingness to help 

We’ll provide guidance and support to help you feel confident in your role. 

By volunteering with us, you’ll be part of a friendly team, gain valuable admin and customer service experience, and make a real difference by supporting St Oswald’s Hospices’ vital work. 

Interested? We’d love to hear from you!

To find out more, please contact Brenda Hodgson, Retail Services Manager at brendahodgson@stoswaldsuk.org 

Download role description Apply now