Group Assistant Volunteers help local Sands support groups run smoothly and safely. 

Group Assistant Volunteers do a variety of tasks to support the work of Befrienders. This can include being present at support meetings to assist the Befriender leading the session, helping set up venues, arranging materials for creative activities, providing administrative support, or helping with refreshments and expenses.  

You may also support promotion of meetings and events, or assist at remembrance events by setting up, welcoming guests, and sourcing materials.

All Group Assistant Volunteers receive guidance and training around safeguarding, so if a concern arises, you can work with the Befriender to take the correct steps and escalate to Sands if needed.

Local groups decide which activities best suit their community, so there are many ways to get involved. By volunteering as a Group Assistant, you are helping ensure that bereaved parents have access to the support and safe spaces they need during a difficult time.

Volunteering as a Group Assistant is a meaningful way to make a difference to bereaved families in your community, without needing to take on a direct support role.

By supporting Befrienders and local groups, you help ensure that parents affected by pregnancy or baby loss can access the care, connection and understanding they need.

Many people choose this role because it is flexible, varied, and allows them to contribute in ways that suit their skills, availability and wellbeing.

You don’t need specific qualifications or personal experience of pregnancy or baby loss to become a Group Assistant Volunteer.

You may be ready for this role if you:

• Are empathetic, welcoming and supportive of others
• Are comfortable working as part of a small volunteer team
• Can maintain clear boundaries and know when to step back
• Are organised and reliable
• Are committed to creating inclusive and safe spaces

We understand that volunteering around pregnancy and baby loss can be emotional, and we encourage everyone to consider their own wellbeing before applying.

Group Assistant Volunteers do not need to be a bereaved parent, but if you are, we believe that a person is best placed to judge their own readiness to volunteer as a Group Assistant once 12 months have passed since their own bereavement.     

As a Group Assistant Volunteer, you’ll receive ongoing support, including:

• Induction and training, including safeguarding
• Access to Sands eLearning modules
• Clear guidance, policies and role information
• A Sands volunteer email address and access to resources
• Opportunities to connect with other volunteers and Sands staff

You’ll never be expected to manage difficult situations alone.