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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Shop volunteer
Role summary
Help welcome refugee friends to the JRS UK Shop: a warm, dignified space where people can freely choose essential food, toiletries, and clothing each month.
Many of the people we accompany are cut off from support and barred from accessing public funds, often facing long‑term destitution. Your hospitality ensures each person is met with kindness and respect, and complements JRS UK’s advice, casework, legal support, and advocacy.
What you’ll do
- Welcome refugee friends on arrival; offer tea/coffee and a listening ear
- Support people to browse and choose items; stay attentive to dietary or cultural needs
- Keep the Shop tidy and stocked; receive and sort donations; flag gaps to the team
- Work alongside staff and volunteers to create a calm, friendly environment grounded in dignity and choice
Why this role matters
Access to essentials is a lifeline during an isolating time. The Shop restores choice and agency, helping people care for their health and feel at home in community. This helps people meet practical needs , alongside specialist casework and advocacy.
Time and place
Wednesdays or Thursdays: 10am–1pm or 1pm–5pm (choose one regular slot).
JRS UK Centre: Hurtado Jesuit Centre, 2 Chandler Street, Wapping E1W 2QT
Read more
Celebrating World Food Day with the JRS Shop
Accessing healthy food and the freedom to choose
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
Befriending volunteer
Role summary
Offer regular phone calls and occasional face‑to‑face meet‑ups with a refugee friend to provide companionship, a listening ear, and connection.
Many of the people we accompany are barred from public services and support, can’t work, and may be at risk of homelessness. People can be trapped in this situation for decades.
During this time of isolation and marginalisation, steady human connection can be transformative. Befriending sits alongside JRS UK’s essential services, casework, and advocacy.
What you’ll do
- Make regular check-in calls (weekly) to build trust and offer encouragement
- Meet occasionally in a public place (e.g., for a walk or coffee), when comfortable for both of you
- Encourage engagement with JRS UK activities; relay any practical or wellbeing concerns to JRS UK staff
Why this role matters
The asylum system can be deeply isolating; befrienders ensure someone is not facing it alone. Refugee friends often tell us the reliability of a call makes a real difference to wellbeing and hope.
Time and place
A regular weekly phone call, as well as occasional in-person meet-ups.
Read more
‘You’ll get a lot more back than you put in’
