Volunteering opportunities

Train with Hope UK to become a voluntary drug educator

Develop new skills, boost your confidence, and become part of our nationwide team

Hope UK is a Christian, national drug prevention charity. Our aim is to equip young people to make drug-free choices. We are looking for committed, enthusiastic and willing partners in our mission to serve children and young people in our communities.

Could you help us in this crucial work?

What volunteers do:

Hope UK volunteers help deliver preventive drug education and life skills training in schools, churches, youth groups, and community settings.

Ways you can get involved:

Session Educator – Deliver structured sessions with children, young people or adults.

Detached Educator – Run informal activities in community settings such as events or public spaces.

Church Speaker – Share about Hope UK’s work in churches and encourage support.

Who can apply:

To volunteer you must:

✅ Be 18 or over

✅ Be a Christian with an active faith

✅ Be drug-free (including alcohol and tobacco)

✅ Be willing to work with children and young people, and references and an enhanced DBS check are required as part of the application process.

✅ Be able to give around one day per month on average

Training and support:

✅ Free accredited training through the Open College Network

✅ Four training weekends plus guided learning activities

✅ Ongoing support, resources and mentoring

✅ Annual training conference and opportunities to develop new skills

✅ All travel expenses and resources provided

Interested?

Please complete your details below to receive our Volunteer Information Pack and Application Form or contact us to find out more about becoming a Hope UK Volunteer Educator.

Help equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills to make safe, drug-free choices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a Hope UK volunteer?

To become a volunteer drug educator with Hope UK, you need to complete our structured drug prevention training programme, which includes training weekends, practical experience, and distance learning. Once completed, you become a recognised Hope UK drug educator able to deliver drug education and prevention activities.

What training do Hope UK volunteers receive?

Hope UK volunteers receive training in drug awareness, safeguarding, communication skills, youth work, life skills education, and planning prevention activities. The training prepares volunteers to confidently work with young people, churches, and community groups.

What happens during Hope UK training weekends?

Hope UK training includes four training weekends where volunteers learn about drug prevention, safeguarding, communication skills, youth work, and planning activities. Volunteers also practise delivering sessions and receive feedback.

Do volunteers receive top-up training?

Volunteers are encouraged to attend training events and the Hope UK Annual Conference to stay updated and continue developing their skills.

How long does Hope UK volunteer training take?

Hope UK volunteer training typically takes 6–9 months to complete. This allows time for learning about drugs and prevention, developing communication skills, and gaining practical experience delivering sessions.

When can I start?

Training weekends take place twice a year, usually starting in February and September. There is usually a five-week gap between the four training weekends, allowing for all Basic Training to be completed within five months. You can apply at any time. We always encourage you to observe a session before you train with us, where possible.

Does volunteer training come with a qualification?

Volunteers can gain Open College Network (OCN) Level 2 accredited units in drug knowledge and drug prevention work by completing coursework, assessments, and practical activities.

How much does it cost?

It will cost Hope UK about £1200 to train you fully, and then another £450 a year to support you and keep you updated. We do not charge you for this training as you will be representing Hope UK where you live once you have completed the basic training. However, if you fail to use the training we will invoice you for the full cost of the training and any support/resources you have received.

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