Every day, millions of people across the UK care for loved ones who are older, disabled, or seriously ill. It is rewarding, but it can also be isolating and exhausting. Carers UK exists to make sure no one has to care alone – and volunteers play a huge part in making that happen. 

If you have ever thought about giving your time, skills, or experience to support others, volunteering with Carers UK is a fantastic way to get involved. Here’s how you can do it, what opportunities are available, and what you can expect when you join. 

Why volunteer with Carers UK? 

Volunteering with Carers UK is about more than just giving your time. It is about standing alongside the 5.7 million unpaid carers in the UK and helping to make sure their voices are heard. 

As a volunteer, you help raise awareness of the support available, share important information in your community, and help Carers UK campaign for better recognition and rights. You also get the chance to develop new skills, meet like-minded people, and be part of a nationwide network of caring and compassionate individuals. 

Carers UK welcomes people from all walks of life – whether you are a current or former carer, or simply passionate about supporting others. 

The different ways you can volunteer 

Carers UK offers a variety of flexible roles to suit different interests, lifestyles and time commitments. Here are some of the most popular: 

1. Community connector

Community Connectors help spread the word about Carers UK in local areas. You might distribute leaflets, speak at local events, or help connect carers to useful resources. It’s a great option if you enjoy getting out and meeting people. 

2. Workplace champion

If you are employed or have workplace experience, you can become a Workplace Champion. In this role, you promote awareness of caring within your organisation and encourage a supportive culture for working carers. 

3. Online awareness raiser

For those who enjoy using social media, this role involves sharing Carers UK’s campaigns, events and resources online. You help reach people who may not realise they are carers or who need support but do not know where to find it. 

4. Insight volunteer

Insight Volunteers share their personal experiences of caring to help shape Carers UK’s work. Your perspective can influence campaigns, services and policies, helping to make real change happen. 

5. Events and fundraising volunteer

This role is ideal if you enjoy organising or taking part in events. You could help at fundraising activities, represent Carers UK at community fairs, or lend a hand at awareness events across the country. 

All roles are supported by the Carers UK volunteering team, who provide guidance and training where needed, so you never feel alone in what you are doing. 

How to apply 

Getting started as a Carers UK volunteer is simple: 

Visit the volunteering page on the Carers UK website and have a look at the different roles on offer. 

Complete the online volunteer application form. You can choose up to two roles that interest you and share a bit about your experience and availability. 

Wait to hear from the volunteering team, who will review your application and get in touch with next steps. 

You will receive support throughout your journey, including information about your chosen role and access to resources that help you get the most out of volunteering. 

Please note that volunteers must live in the UK – Carers UK is unable to sponsor visa applications. 

What It’s like to volunteer 

Many volunteers say the experience is not only rewarding but life-changing. Norman, who has volunteered with Carers UK since 2012, describes it as “a way to give back” after receiving support himself. Through volunteering, he has raised awareness of carers’ issues, taken part in media work, and spoken to politicians – all while feeling valued and supported. 

As Norman puts it: 

“You are made to feel welcome and valued. You are never pressured into anything. You do what you can.” 

His story shows that volunteering can be empowering – helping you rebuild confidence, meet others, and make a genuine difference.