Group Support Volunteer
This is one of the most direct ways to get involved with Guy’s Gift.
As a Group Support Volunteer, you’ll be part of our bereavement support groups for children, young people and families. These groups provide a safe, supportive space where participants can connect with others, take part in activities, and explore their thoughts and feelings following the death of someone important to them.
Why this role matters
For many families, attending a group can feel like a big step.
These sessions help children, young people and families realise they are not alone in their experiences. As described in our volunteer guide, simply being welcomed, included, and supported can make a meaningful difference to how comfortable people feel taking part.
Your presence helps create a space where people feel safe, included, and able to engage in their own way.
What You’ll Be Doing
Helping prepare the space before sessions
Welcoming families as they arrive
Supporting children, young people and parents/carers during activities
Sitting alongside participants and encouraging involvement
Helping create a calm, inclusive and supportive group environment
Assisting with tidying up and checking in with the team after sessions
You’ll be part of the group, joining activities and conversations.
What we’re looking for
A warm, calm and approachable manner
Ability to listen with empathy and without judgement
Confidence being around children, young people and families
Willingness to take part in activities and conversations
Reliability and commitment to the full programme
Time commitment
Group programmes run over five weekly sessions, each lasting around 2 hours.
Volunteers are asked to attend all sessions where possible, helping provide consistency and stability for the families attending.
There will also be:
A short briefing before the group begins
A debrief session at the end
What support you’ll receive
Guidance and training before you begin
A structured programme led by qualified Bereavement Support Workers
Ongoing support during sessions
A chance to reflect and debrief after the programme
You’ll always be working alongside experienced staff who lead the sessions.
Boundaries of the role
This role is about supporting, not leading.
You won’t be expected to:
Lead activities or facilitate sessions
Provide counselling or advice
Have the “right” answers
As highlighted in the guide, often the most helpful thing you can offer is simply being present, listening, and showing kindness.
A gentle note
These sessions can sometimes feel emotional.
That’s completely natural, and you’ll be supported throughout. You’ll also have opportunities to reflect and talk things through with the team if needed.
Interested?
If this feels like something you’d like to be part of, we’d love to hear from you for an informal chat.