Proudly independent, Oxfordshire-based, and leading the way in championing young carers.

Volunteer

Support Us

Be Free Young Carers provides the vital support young carers need to navigate the overwhelming responsibilities they face often far beyond their years. The work we do changes lives: not just for the children we support, but for their families and the wider communities around them.

By helping young carers feel seen, valued, and empowered, we give them the chance to grow into confident, compassionate adults.

There are many ways you can support this life-changing work, each one making a meaningful difference.

Become a Befriender

Befrienders come from all walks of life – if you’re over 18, a good listener, and have a few spare hours each week or fortnight, you could make a real difference to a young carer’s life.

What’s Involved
Meet with a young carer for 2–3 hours regularly over six months, offering them time to relax, talk, or enjoy hobbies and outings – like walks, sports, cafés, or museums. You’ll be matched based on location and preferences (South Oxon, Vale of White Horse, West Oxfordshire, Oxford City). A driving licence can be helpful, but isn’t essential. Travel and activity costs are covered.

Training & Support
You’ll receive full training in safeguarding, boundaries, and communication, plus ongoing support and regular check-ins. Peer support events also offer space to connect with other befrienders.

Why Volunteer?
It’s a rewarding way to support a young person, gain new skills, try new activities, and be part of a caring community.

Ready to get involved?
Contact us or complete our Befriender Application Form here.

Become a Volunteer

If you’re over 18 and enjoy working with young people, volunteering on our trips is a fun and rewarding way to make a difference.

What’s Involved
We run 20+ trips a year across South Oxfordshire, the Vale of White Horse, West Oxfordshire and Oxford City – each with around 25 young carers. There are also Youth Clubs that volunteers can get involved with, which run once a month at the same time and in the same place. We need a regular volunteer for each Youth Club we run. Volunteers help staff on trips and at Youth Clubs by supervising the young carers, ensuring everyone stays safe, feels involved and has a great time!

Training & Support
All volunteers receive guidance before events and are fully supported by our experienced team. You’ll be briefed on your role, the young carers’ needs, and how to handle any situations that may arise.

Why Volunteer?
It’s a brilliant way to give back, meet like-minded people, and enjoy fantastic days out – from Wet N Wild and Lego Workshops to bowling and cinema trips.

Ready to get involved? Contact us or complete our Volunteer Application Form here.

80%

of people are more likely to buy from a company that visibly supports a cause they care about.

70%

of employees say they feel more loyal to companies that make a positive social impact.

1 in 3

people in the UK are more likely to work for a company that gives back to the community.

86%

of consumers say they’re more likely to trust a brand that supports a social or environmental issue.

Become a Ambassador

Are you passionate about supporting young carers? Help us spread the word and raise vital awareness by becoming a Be Free Young Carers Ambassador.

What’s Involved
Ambassadors use their voice and networks to champion our cause, whether that’s speaking at events, sharing our message online, or helping connect us to new supporters and opportunities.

Training & Support
We’ll provide everything you need to confidently represent Be Free YC, from key messages to branded materials and regular updates on our work.

Why Volunteer?
It’s a chance to be part of real change, raising awareness for young carers and helping us grow our reach and impact across Oxfordshire.

Ambassadors are vital to us.
Please email yc@befreeyc.org.uk
to find out more.

Become a Trustee

Use your skills, experience and passion to make a lasting difference. Join our Board and help insure every Young Carer gets the support they deserve.

What’s Involved
As a trustee, you’ll help guide the strategic direction of Be Free Young Carers, ensuring we continue to provide life-changing support to Young Carers and their families. Being a trustee requires attendance at approximately 4 board meetings per year, plus occasional events and working groups.

Training & Support
We want all trustees to feel confident and supported in their role. That’s why we provide a comprehensive induction and ongoing development opportunities throughout your time on the Board.

Why Partner with Us?
By joining our Board, you’ll play a vital role in helping Young Carers feel seen, supported and able to thrive. It is an opportunity to use your skills for good, develop your leadership experience and be part of a charity making a real difference across the communities that we serve.

If you would like to discuss Trustee opportunities, please email yc@befreeyc.org.uk.

“Volunteering is just a great way to spend time – connecting with other people and having a positive impact, while also being good fun! I really enjoy it, and of course it feels really rewarding to be able to make a difference to a young carer and her family.” Laura, Be Free YC Befriender