Volunteer
JRS UK volunteers are integral to our work. Without our dedicated volunteers, we could not help those seeking asylum.
JRS UK is reliant of the support of over 100 volunteers who offer accompaniment and support to our refugee friends. Volunteers form a critical part of our team, and we always welcome applications from people wishing to share their time and skills with us. If you’re over 18 years old, and are able to commit to volunteering for at least 6 months, please do browse our current volunteering opportunities below.
Please check back on this page regularly, as we’re always updating this page as opportunities develop.
If you have a specific skill or talent that you wish to contribute to the work of JRS UK, but the volunteering opportunities available don’t quite fit, please do get in touch and share your ideas with us.
We encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups.
“I realise how fortunate I’ve been to have had the opportunity of being part of the big JRS family.”
Gael, JRS Volunteer
CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES
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Join the "And Sew On..." Project: Sewing Volunteers Needed
Are you skilled at sewing and looking to make a difference?
We’re seeking intermediate and advanced sewers to join our “And Sew On…” project! By donating just a small amount of your time each month, you can help us build a vibrant community and support a meaningful cause.
Not a seasoned sewer? No worries! We welcome beginners too. Stay tuned for upcoming classes where you can learn and support our project. Alternatively, consider purchasing one of our handmade bags or making a donation to help us grow.
“And Sew On…” is more than just a sewing group—it’s a movement. We’re dedicated to empowering individuals through sewing, fostering self-sufficiency, and building a supportive community. We aim to teach practical skills, share expertise, and promote the revival of old clothing through mending and upcycling.
Right now, we’re sewing bags for our shop to assist refugee friends, for those leaving detention, and to raise funds for more sewing equipment. As our community grows, we plan to launch even more exciting projects.
Join us in stitching a brighter future—together!
Minimum time commitment for this role 1 or 2 days per month, on Tuesdays, for 6 months. On occasion other days may be required.
You will be supported by the team to do this and reimbursed for travel expenses.
Parish Friends of JRS UK - Fundraising and Outreach Volunteer
Do you have people skills, and a desire to raise awareness about refugees and asylum seekers?
JRS UK is looking for volunteers to represent and fundraise for JRS UK at parish-based events. This is a great way to share with others the reality refugees and asylum seekers face in the UK, to encourage people to start on their own journeys of social justice, and to help increase the capacity of JRS UK to continue walking with refugees.
This role will involve visiting parishes and speaking at Mass, or to local Justice & Peace groups.
The time commitment for this role is flexible to suit you! We encourage volunteers to hold an appeal in their own parish, but there is also the opportunity to visit other parishes, as well as going with JRS UK to festivals and events across the country.
Read more about the role here.
You will be supported by the team to do this and reimbursed for travel expenses. You will receive training and resources to equip you speak to others.
Refugee host with 'At Home'
“They showed me acceptance and love…unconditional love. I felt like a part of the family, I truly felt at home.”
– Henry, an ‘At Home’ guest
JRS’s definition of hosting is when someone with a spare room accommodates a person seeking asylum as a ‘guest’.
One of the greatest challenges faced by the people accompanied and supported by JRS UK is the lack of accommodation. The JRS ‘At Home’ programme responds to this need through organising accommodation for an agreed period with individuals, families, parishes, and religious communities for people who would otherwise be homeless.
If you live in the London area and have the space, you could make a huge difference to the life of someone that we support.
Read more about At Home hosting scheme: jrsuk.net/at-home-hosting-scheme
