Listening ear volunteer, Ballynahinch

Volunteer Now has partnered with Be Collective to bring a dedicated online platform for volunteering to Northern Ireland. The platform supports volunteers through the volunteering process and helps connect more people with a wider range of opportunities. There’s lots of great features to Be Collective like messaging, making a profile, and being able to compile all your experiences, training and roles as well as the skills gained within a social CV.You can search and apply for volunteer roles below. If you can’t find anything you like you at the moment – register now, then check back soon – new opportunities are added all the time!

As a volunteer, you’re not expected to fix problems — your presence, your time, and your willingness to listen are what make the biggest difference. Sessions can help people feel less alone, more connected, and more confident.

By giving a few hours of your time, you can help:

Reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness

Build positive connections and trusting relationships

Encourage confidence, self‑esteem, and motivation in someone who may be struggling

This is a rewarding opportunity for volunteers who enjoy listening, empathising, and helping others feel valued.

What the service is not:

It is not counselling

It is not about giving advice or telling someone what to do

It is not getting involved in complex issues outside your own experience or comfort zone

Volunteers receive training, support and guidance, and boundaries are kept clear so you can focus on simply being a compassionate listener.

• Build Positive Connections

• Adaptability
• Communication Skills
• Interpersonal Skills

50 Windmill St, Ballynahinch BT24 8HB, UK