Volunteer with Cheltenham Guardians Safeguarding Team

 

Join a specialist volunteer service dedicated to protecting vulnerable women and girls in Cheltenham’s nighttime economy.

 

Since 2015 the Cheltenham Guardians Female Safeguarding Team has provided a specialist, female-only response every Saturday night (10pm - 4am), working in close partnership with strategic partners. Our trained volunteers deliver proactive welfare support, early intervention and crisis response to ensure the safety and well-being of thousands of women and girls each year.

 

Role overview

As a Female Safeguarding Officer you will:

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• Conduct visible uniformed patrols in Cheltenham town centre

• Identify and respond to risks and vulnerabilities

• Provide immediate welfare support, de-escalation and assistance

• Liaise directly with emergency services as required

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Our volunteers have been first responders to major incidents including murder, serious violence and sexual assaults. The role demands maturity, sound judgement and resilience.

 

Who we are looking for

Professional, compassionate women who possess:

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• A strong sense of duty and commitment to safeguarding

• Emotional resilience and the ability to remain calm in challenging situations

• A good level of physical fitness and stamina for extended night shifts

• The maturity to make critical decisions under pressure

 

Essential requirements

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• Female (genuine occupational requirement under the Equality Act 2010)

• Aged 18+ with a clean background check (DBS required)

• Ability to commit to a minimum of one 6-hour shift every six weeks

• Full commitment to comprehensive initial training and ongoing professional development

 

Uniform & equipment
 

Volunteers are required to purchase their own approved uniform and equipment (approximate cost £300+, depending on size and seasonal items). Fundraising guidance and support are available.

 

How to apply

If you feel you have the qualities and commitment required, please email volunteer@cheltenhamguardians.org with:

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• A summary of your background and relevant experience

• Your motivation for applying to this specialist safeguarding role

 

If you would prefer a less frontline position initially, please ask about opportunities within our Nightcare Hub.

 

We look forward to hearing from dedicated individuals ready to make a meaningful contribution to community safety in Cheltenham.

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Volunteer with the Nightcare Hub

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Looking for a meaningful way to support Cheltenham's community without the physical demands of frontline work? The Nightcare Hub is seeking kind-hearted volunteers to provide a safe haven for women in need during Cheltenham’s Saturday night-time economy (10pm - 4am). As part of the Cheltenham Guardians family, the Nightcare Hub offers a vital space for rest, recovery and support.

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What we do

The Nightcare Hub is a lifeline for women who need a break from the night - a place to recharge, access support or arrange safe transport home. Volunteers here play a key role in welcoming service users, providing emotional support and coordinating with our wider team to ensure everyone gets the care they need.

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Who We're Looking For

We're seeking female volunteers with a warm, empathetic nature and a desire to help others in a less physically demanding role. If you're calm, approachable and ready to offer a listening ear, this could be the perfect fit for you. While less intense than front-line Guardian duties, your contribution will still have a profound impact.

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Requirements

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• Female (to align with our female-focused safeguarding mission)

• Caring and compassionate demeanor

• Ability to work calmly in a supportive role

• Willingness to train and collaborate with the CGST team​

• Able to commit to at least one six-hour shift every six weeks

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How to Apply

Ready to lend a hand at the Nightcare Hub? Please email volunteer@cheltenhamguardians.org and let is know which area of the charity interests you, a little about yourself, and why you would be suitable for the role you are applying for. We hope to hear from you soon!