Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to make a real difference to people in your community as well as increase your self-confidence and meet new people.

Exeter Community Initiatives has a variety of volunteering opportunities on offer where you will be given training and support so that you can develop and grow.

Our volunteer vacancies let you use your skills and experience for a good cause, connect to your local community and meet new people. 

With full training provided, many volunteers see an improvement in their confidence, self-esteem and mental health. Plus, there’s the joy of knowing you’re doing something worthwhile with your time for someone else.  

It doesn’t have to be a big commitment; some people just offer a couple of hours a week or month. 

Find the role for you below.

Looking for a meaningful way to support your local community?

Join ECI as an Ambassador or Trustee and help shape, support and grow our work across Exeter and Devon. Whether you’re passionate about community engagement, raising awareness, or contributing at a strategic level, there’s a way to get involved that suits you.

  • Flexible volunteering opportunities
  • Full support and training provided
  • Be part of a friendly, purpose-driven team
  • Make a real difference to local people and communities

Click here to find out more about our Ambassador and Trustee volunteering opportunities.

Looking for a rewarding volunteer role in a friendly local charity shop?

Join the team at Jelly and help support local families while gaining experience in retail, customer service, sorting donations, stock preparation and creating a welcoming space for the community. Whether you enjoy working with people on the shop floor or organising behind the scenes, there’s a role for you.

  • Flexible shifts
  • Full training provided
  • Supportive team environment
  • 25% shop discount + tea & biscuits included!

Click here to find out more about our Shop Assistant and Sorting Room volunteer opportunities.

Looking for a creative and rewarding volunteer role supporting mental health and wellbeing in your community?

Our Open Studios group is a relaxed weekly art space where people can paint, draw and create freely with optional guidance from professional artists — no pressure, just creativity at your own pace.

As a volunteer, you’ll help set up the space, prepare materials, make drinks and offer friendly, informal support to participants as they create.

  • 2.5 hours per week (Thursday afternoons)
  • Hands-on creative arts experience
  • Work alongside professional artists
  • Supportive, inclusive team environment
  • Training, expenses (if applicable) + plenty of tea and gratitude

Click here to find out more about joining our Magic Carpet volunteer team

Looking for a meaningful volunteering role where you can help someone build confidence, independence and a stronger sense of wellbeing?

Join ECI Transitions as a Volunteer Wellbeing Coach, workshop volunteer or co facilitator and support people to take positive steps forward in their lives through one-to-one guidance, encouragement and practical support.

Transitions brings together elements of mentoring, life coaching, befriending and peer support. Helping people apply what they’ve learned in real life, build coping strategies, and connect more fully with their community.

Click here to find out more about joining our Transitions volunteer team