Volunteer

Join Our Team and Make a Difference!

We invite you to become a crucial part of our mission to support individuals and families grappling with the effects of a loved one’s addiction. By volunteering with us, you join a community of care and support that extends across the nation.

Support people affected by a loved one's addiction.
Flexible remote volunteering opportunities available.
Comprehensive training provided for all roles.
Be part of a supportive, compassionate community.
Enhance personal growth and professional skills.

Volunteer Recruitment Windows

We recruit volunteers throughout the year with training delivered in February, June and October. Training is spread over four weeks and includes three half-day sessions, case studies, role plays, mentoring sessions, and a library of resources to support learning and development.

We are currently only recruiting volunteers to take Helpline calls.

Feel free to contact us here with any questions.

FAQs

What’s the minimum age to volunteer?

Our minimum age for volunteering is 30. This is because the role involves supporting people in sensitive, complex, and often emotionally challenging situations. We ask volunteers to bring maturity, resilience, and life experience, helping to safeguard both those we support and the volunteers themselves.

What volunteer roles are there?

We offer several key volunteer roles: Helpline Volunteer, Support Group Volunteer, Operations & Administration Volunteer, and Trustee. Each role serves a critical function, from facilitating support groups and managing helpline calls to administrative duties and strategic board governance. Full role descriptions are available below.

What is the time commitment, and where do volunteers work?

Volunteers are required to commit a minimum of two hours per week and stay for a minimum of one year (it costs AFS money if volunteers leave earlier). Most of our volunteering roles, including helpline and support group facilitation, can be performed remotely, providing flexibility to accommodate various schedules.

Click here to view a map of where our volunteers are based across England and Wales.

What training do volunteers receive?

All volunteers undergo comprehensive training tailored to their specific roles, including remote interactive sessions, workbooks, resources and case studies facilitated by experienced addiction support practitioners. Our training equips volunteers with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively support individuals and families impacted by a loved one’s addiction. We also ensure continuous support via on-demand training sessions, a training catalogue with additional modules, debriefing and supervision.

Why is volunteering with Addiction Family Support important?

The need for Addiction Family Support’s services is significant and growing. With rising addiction issues impacting thousands, our support services are more critical than ever. We receive an average of 900 helpline calls each month, and have an ongoing waiting list for support groups.

What impact does Addiction Family Support have?

Addiction Family Support profoundly impacts the people we support, improving clients’ mental health, well-being, and social connections. Ninety-one percent of clients have reported positive effects from our support. Our volunteers are crucial to achieving these outcomes by providing our vital support services.

What are the benefits of volunteering with Addiction Family Support?

Volunteering at Addiction Family Support allows you to significantly impact people affected by a loved one’s addiction, providing much-needed support and compassion. It offers personal growth, enhances your understanding of addiction, and improves communication skills. Your contribution will help build a resilient community and foster lasting change.

What is the minimum waiting period for volunteers with lived experience of addiction or those affected or bereaved by a loved one’s addiction?

Addiction Family Support requires volunteers with lived experience of addiction to have maintained abstinence for at least two years. Similarly, those affected or bereaved by a loved one’s addiction must wait two years since first engaging with the charity for support or since the death of their loved one before volunteering. This policy ensures the safety and well-being of all involved, reflecting our commitment to recovery and effective volunteering. We also offer additional support, such as weekly check-ins, for those in early recovery stages.

What's the process?

Once you enquire, we will arrange for you to attend an “Introduction to Addiction Family Support” meeting with our CEO via Teams. After the meeting, we will invite you to apply and schedule an interview if you are still interested and available to volunteer.

Volunteer Roles

At AFS, we provide a variety of impactful volunteer roles that enable you to directly support families, carers, and friends affected by a loved one’s addiction. Each role is tailored to leverage your unique skills and interests, contributing significantly to our mission. Join us and find a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your passion.

“I volunteer at AFS to let others know you can come out the other side. I want to give people hope.”

Mary | Helpline Volunteer

Helpline Volunteer

The AFS helpline operates daily from 9am to 9pm, seven days a week, 365 days a year, providing essential support to our service users. We need committed volunteers to handle calls, offering empathy and understanding to those in crisis.

Training spans three months and includes policy orientation, counselling basics, and hands-on practice with supervision.

Volunteers are expected to commit to at least one two-hour weekly shift. Regular monthly meetings and ongoing training sessions are also part of this role.

Support Group Volunteer

Support groups are a central aspect of AFS’s services, offering a confidential space for individuals affected by a loved one’s addiction. These groups foster shared experiences and mutual support, empowering participants to move forward.

We seek passionate volunteers to assist our facilitators in running these groups. Your role will include attending meetings and updating our client database. Expect to dedicate about two and a half hours weekly: two hours for meetings and up to thirty minutes for administrative tasks.

Operations & Administration Volunteer

AFS relies on volunteers to ensure the smooth operation of various ongoing and ad hoc projects. We appreciate any time you can dedicate to helping us maintain our operational efficiency.

Trustee

AFS is looking for dedicated individuals to enhance our board’s range of skills. Ideal candidates are motivated and successful professionals committed to providing strategic direction and ensuring our financial stability.

Volunteer Process

Enquiry Form

Submit the initial form to express your interest in volunteering with us.

Intro Call

Join an introductory call with our CEO, where you’ll view a presentation about our charity and volunteer roles.

Application

Fill out the detailed application form to proceed with your volunteer journey.

Interview

Attend an interview with our Training and Support Manager to discuss your application and suitability.

Checks & Setup

Provide references, complete a DBS check, and set up your Addiction Family Support email account.

Induction & Training

Undergo an induction process and receive the necessary training to prepare for your role.

Start & Support

Begin your volunteer role and benefit from continuous support throughout your time with us.