top of page
REB_JULIANTRUST_7052_edited_edited_edited_edited.jpg

Volunteering

Evening shifts at a glance

Our evening volunteers help us open our doors and create a warm, welcoming space for up to 100 guests four nights a week. You'll be part of a team that prepares and serves food, welcomes guests, chats and listens, sorts donations and tidies up.

queue icon.png

7pm-9:30pm shifts run Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

bed icon (1).png

8-15 volunteers each evening

plate icon.png

We serve a hot meals and drinks, and provide showers and clothes.

hands icon.png

Create a safe, respectful and friendly environment.

What happens during an evening shift?

Arrive and sign in

Sign in, have a quick briefing with your supervisor and catch-up with your team. You'll find out what needs doing that evening and choose a role that suits you.

Prepare for opening

Help get everything ready before guests arrive. This could include preparing the evening meal, washing up, or sorting our clothing donations.

Welcome guests

From 8pm our guests arrive. You'll help serve food and drinks, hand out clothing and toiletries, chat with guests and create a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels respected.

Finish and tidy up

Once guests have left, everyone works together to wash up, clean the kitchen and dining area, and prepare the shelter for the overnight volunteers before heading home.

Ready to Get Involved?

Before joining one of our friendly teams, we ask that all prospective volunteers fill in our application form and attend a mandatory introduction session. These one-hour sessions are held at 6:30pm and provide an overview of our shelter operations, along with guidance on how you can make the most of your volunteering experience. You can view and select one of our upcoming induction sessions directly on the sign-up form.
 

After completing the session, you’ll be ready to begin volunteering on your chosen shift. You’ll be supported by experienced team members and have the chance to ask any questions you may have along the way.

Commonly Asked Questions

Who can volunteer?

Anyone aged 18 or over is welcome. We welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life, and we're committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

Can I pick what evening I volunteer?

Yes. You can choose the evening team that best fits your availability. Most volunteers commit to one regular evening each week, but we can often be flexible.

Do I need experience?

Not at all. Many of our volunteers have never volunteered before. All you need is a positive attitude and a willingness to help - we'll show you everything else.

How long does the application process take?

The application process can take as little as one week. Simply complete our online application form, attend a short induction, and once we've completed your reference checks, you'll be ready for your first shift.

What training is provided?

Every new volunteer starts with an induction and is supported by experienced supervisors. We provide training in several key areas helping you feel confident, prepared and supported from your very first shift.

Can I volunteer with friends or family?

Absolutely. Many people volunteer together with friends, partners, colleagues or relatives.

Contact us

Address: 
The Night Shelter, 16 Little Bishop Street, St Pauls, Bristol, BS2 9JF

Phone: 
0117 924 4604 (evenings only)

Follow Us

  • Facebook - Black Circle
  • Instagram
  • Bluesky logo
  • LinkedIn

Recent Social Media Posts

Awards

A purple crown made up of lots of people with the words 'The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service'

© Julian Trust 2018
Julian Trust is a registered charity, No 294751

bottom of page