Looking for a way to make a difference? Join us in making mental health and wellbeing support accessible to everyone in Leeds
There are different ways you can help shape and support MindWell, from taking on a volunteer role to sharing occasional feedback based on your experiences.
You do not need to be a mental health professional, and you can choose the type of involvement that works best for you.
Volunteer with us
Our volunteers help us make it easier for people in Leeds to find trusted mental health information, local services and practical support.
Volunteer activities may include:
- helping to keep our services directory accurate and up to date
- carrying out online research
- attending community events and representing MindWell
- raising awareness of MindWell and local support
- sharing messages on social media
- distributing printed resources across Leeds
- testing and giving feedback on the MindWell website
Opportunities vary depending on what the team needs. Some roles are regular, while others may involve a one-off task or short project. Many activities can be completed remotely and flexibly.
Please note that MindWell does not offer counselling, psychology or other clinical placements.
Current volunteering opportunities
You can view and apply for our current opportunities on the Doing Good Leeds website.
If there is not currently a suitable role, you can complete our short interest form to tell us what kinds of activities you may be interested in. With your permission, we will contact you if a suitable opportunity becomes available.
Join our lived experience group
You can also help shape MindWell without committing to a formal volunteer role.
Our lived experience group is open to people who have:
- personal experience of mental health difficulties
- experience of using or trying to access mental health support
- supported a family member, friend or someone else with their mental health
Group members may occasionally be invited to give feedback on our:
- website information and resources
- campaigns and public messages
- plans and new ideas
- work to make MindWell more useful and accessible
You can decide which opportunities you would like to take part in. There is no expectation to respond to every invitation, and you will never be required to share personal experiences or information unless you choose to.
Join the lived experience group
Why get involved?
Getting involved with MindWell can give you an opportunity to:
- help improve mental health information and support in Leeds
- use your skills, knowledge and experience to make a difference
- learn new skills and gain useful experience
- meet new people and contribute to work across the city
- take part in ways that suit your interests and availability
Volunteers receive guidance and support appropriate to their role. We can also reimburse reasonable, agreed expenses connected with volunteering.
Questions about getting involved
Please read our frequently asked questions below or contact us at mindwellleeds@gmail.com.
To see our current volunteer opportunities, visit the Doing Good Leeds website.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
If you have a question about volunteering with us, please take a look at the FAQs below as you may find the answer you’re looking for.
Who can get involved?
We welcome interest from people aged 18 and over from all communities and backgrounds in Leeds.
You do not need previous experience of working in mental health. The skills or experience needed will depend on the particular opportunity.
What is the difference between volunteering and the lived experience group?
A volunteer role usually involves agreed tasks, responsibilities and a time commitment.
The lived experience group is more flexible. Members are contacted occasionally when we would value their feedback on a piece of content, a campaign or an idea. You can choose whether to take part each time.
You are welcome to express an interest in both.
How much time do I need to give?
This depends on the opportunity.
Some volunteer roles may ask for a regular commitment, while others involve one-off tasks or short projects. Details will be included in each role description.
There is no regular time commitment for the lived experience group.
Can I take part remotely?
Many of our research, directory, content and feedback activities can be completed remotely. Other opportunities, such as representing MindWell at an event, will take place in person.
We will make this clear when we contact you about an opportunity.
What support will I receive?
Volunteers receive an induction, clear guidance and support from a named member of the MindWell team. Any training needed for a specific role will be provided.
People contributing through the lived experience group will receive clear information about each activity before deciding whether to take part.
What if my health or circumstances affect my availability?
We understand that people’s health, caring responsibilities and other circumstances can change.
We encourage you to be open with us about anything that could help you take part. We will try to offer flexibility where the needs of the role allow.
Will my expenses be covered?
We can reimburse reasonable expenses that have been agreed in advance, such as travel costs connected with volunteering.
We will explain what is available before you take part in an activity.
Will I need a DBS check or references?
MindWell opportunities do not involve providing direct mental health support.
References or a Disclosure and Barring Service check will only be requested where they are necessary and appropriate for a particular role. This will be explained before you apply.
Will I be working directly with people seeking mental health support?
MindWell is an information and signposting service, not a clinical service.
Some volunteers may speak to members of the public at community events. This would usually involve explaining what MindWell is and directing people to trusted information or local services.
Volunteers are not expected to provide mental health advice, counselling or crisis support.
Will volunteering affect my benefits?
You can usually volunteer while receiving benefits, although there may be rules about the type of activity you undertake and any expenses you receive.
You may wish to tell your work coach or benefits adviser before starting a regular role.
What support will I receive?
MindWell provides:
- A full induction and office tour.
- All necessary training and equipment.
- Regular one-on-one meetings with your supervisor.
- Access to ongoing eLearning and mental health resources.
Can I stop taking part?
Yes. You can decline an individual opportunity, take a break or stop volunteering at any time.
We welcome feedback if something is not working well and will do our best to resolve any concerns.
Why isn’t volunteering paid?
Volunteering is a great way to gain experience and demonstrate commitment. While it’s unpaid, it often leads to paid opportunities in the future.
Do you offer work experience or internships?
We’re currently focused on volunteer roles, but if you’re interested in work experience or internships, please get in touch to discuss potential opportunities.
How do I get involved?
You can:
- view and apply for a current volunteer role
- complete our short form to hear about future opportunities
- join our lived experience group