Having a new baby can bring a whirlwind of emotions and at Smile Group we’re passionate about supporting new parents facing mental health challenges, such as postnatal depression and anxiety, during the perinatal period- during pregnancy and postnatally. Our charity offers a range of services, including peer support groups, home visits, talk therapy, and family sessions. With groups across Macclesfield, Congleton, Sandbach, and Crewe, we’re dedicated to creating safer and welcoming spaces where parents can share their experiences and feel supported.
But we can’t do it alone – we need passionate volunteers like you to help make a real difference in the lives of families in Cheshire East. Here’s how you can get involved:
Why Volunteer with Smile Group?
Volunteering with Smile Group offers a meaningful way to connect with your community and support families and caregivers who need it most. Your time will have a direct impact on new parents’ lives, helping them feel less isolated and more supported during a difficult time. Plus, volunteering with us gives you the chance to gain experience in the charity sector and feel better connected to your local community.
Volunteer Opportunities
We have a variety of roles available to suit different skills and interests:
Volunteer Peer Support Assistants
- Commitment: Minimum 2 groups per month (4 hours per group)
- Locations: Oak Tree Family Hub, Crewe (Monday) and Sandbach Children’s Centre (Tuesday) Occasional cover may be required at Congleton Family Hub (Wednesday) and Ash Grove Family Hub, Macclesfield (Friday). Groups run 10am-12pm.
- What you’ll do:
- Welcome parents and help them feel comfortable.
- Make drinks and assist with refreshments.
- Help with babies and toddlers, supporting play and craft activities.
- Set up and pack away the group space.
If you have a kind, empathetic approach, confident with babies and can make a great brew, then we’d love to hear from you!
Smile Squad – Community Outreach
- Time commitment: Minimum 2 hours per month
- What you’ll do:
- Raise awareness of Smile Group’s services in the local community.
- Distribute leaflets and posters to local venues like libraries, clinics, and community centres.
- Attend local events and help spread the word about perinatal mental health.
- What you’ll need:
- A good understanding of perinatal mental health.
- Strong communication skills and enthusiasm to connect with others.
- A willingness to travel to local community venues (mileage reimbursed).
If you enjoy being out and about, connecting with people, and promoting a cause you care about- then this will be perfect for you!
Volunteer Counsellor
- Time commitment: 2 face-to-face sessions per week (Sandbach or Congleton)
- What you’ll need:
- To be studying for an accredited L4+ qualification in Counselling.
- A good understanding of the challenges new parents face.
- What we offer:
- A supportive, friendly environment to gain valuable experience.
- Additional training and bi-monthly group supervision.
- Contribution toward external supervision costs.
This role is perfect for trainee counsellors looking to build experience in a charity setting.
What You’ll Gain
No matter the role, volunteering with Smile Group provides you with an opportunity to gain experience in the charity sector, connect with local families, and make a lasting impact on perinatal mental health. Plus, you’ll receive relevant training and reimbursement for reasonable travel expenses.
How to Apply
Ready to join our team? We’d love to hear from you! To apply or learn more about any of the volunteer opportunities, please contact us at connect@smilegroup.org.uk for more information, closing dates, and application details.
We’re excited to work with volunteers who share our commitment to supporting families in Cheshire East. Join us in helping parents know they are never alone.