Volunteer Work Placement Trainee
Location: Leicester City Centre
Organisation: Shelter Housing Advice and Research Project (SHARP)
Placement Length: 8 weeks (Monday to Thursday)
Application Deadline: Ongoing
Expenses: Bus travel reimbursed (up to £6 per day)
About Us
Shelter Housing Advice and Research Project (SHARP) is a Leicester-based charity established in 1974 by the Leicester Shelter Group. We provide vital advice, support, and advocacy to individuals and families who are homeless or facing serious housing difficulties in Leicester and Leicestershire. We are currently funded by the National Lottery and are offering structured volunteer work placements designed to help individuals gain skills, confidence, and a pathway into employment or further education.
About the Role
We are looking for enthusiastic and committed volunteers to join us for a 8-week work placement. This opportunity is ideal for individuals looking to gain valuable work experience in the housing, advice, or charity sectors.
As a Volunteer Work Placement Trainee, you will support our team with administrative and casework-related tasks, gaining real-world experience in a professional advice setting. You'll work alongside experienced caseworkers and receive full training and ongoing support.
What You’ll Do
- Assist with admin tasks including photocopying, scanning, and file handling
- Use Microsoft Office and client management software (AdvicePro)
- Set up appointments and communicate with clients
- Draft and send letters and emails to clients
- Make follow-up phone calls to collect feedback
- Research and update information databases
- Support delivery of client cases alongside our caseworkers
- Work as part of a friendly, supportive team
What You’ll Gain
- Experience working in a busy advice and support environment
- Increased confidence and improved communication skills
- Familiarity with professional software and administrative systems
- An understanding of housing and homelessness-related issues
- A potential pathway into further education or employment
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for this placement, you must:
- Be aged 18 or over
- Not currently be in employment
- Be available to attend Monday–Thursday each week for 8 weeks
Priority will be given to individuals who have been unemployed for 3 years or more.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
SHARP is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, communities and lived experiences. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity, fairness and respect, and where differences are valued and celebrated. Selection for this placement will be based solely on eligibility, suitability and commitment to the role.
Support & Training Provided
- Full induction and training
- Ongoing guidance from our Volunteer Coordinator
- Friendly and supportive team environment
- Travel expenses covered (up to £6 per day for bus fares)
Interested?
We’d love to hear from you!
To find out more or apply, please contact:
Kulsum Bachani
Volunteer Coordinator
0116 254 6064
[email protected]
Help us make a difference — and gain the experience you need to take your next step.
Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer
Pay: From £3.00 per day
Work Location: In person
