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JDRF has now rebranded to Breakthrough T1D.
Our name has changed, our mission has not.

Volunteer

Volunteers make a huge difference. Our volunteers generously give us their time, skills and experience to tell people about our work, and to help us raise vital funds for research into better treatments and ultimately a cure for T1D.

Bear mascot at cycle fundraiser finish line

Why volunteer for Breakthrough T1D?

Volunteering is a great way to gain new skills or develop existing ones, create lasting friendships with like-minded people, and have lots of fun. And by volunteering for us, you’ll be making a real difference to the lives of people living with type 1 diabetes.

Whether you can give us a couple of hours occasionally, or a day a week, everything you do as a volunteer helps us drive forward the work we do and brings us closer to our vision of a world without type 1.

About our volunteering opportunities

We have roles to suit everyone’s skills, experience, or available time, from cheering on marathon runners, to telling people what life with type 1 is really like, to taking part in innovative research projects.

Whatever your connection to T1D, your level of experience, or even your age, we can find a role for you. If you don’t see a role that fits your skills or motivations, get in touch and we can find a unique role for you.

View volunteering opportunities

Volunteer stories

Volunteer FAQs

Find frequently asked questions about volunteering with Breakthrough T1D below or if you can’t find what you need, contact our volunteering team by emailing volunteering@breakthrought1d.org.uk.

  • How old do I need to be to volunteer for Breakthrough T1D?

    We welcome people of all ages to get involved with Breakthrough T1D UK. If you are 25 or under, you can join our Youth Ambassador Programme. If you’re older than 25, we’d love you to get involved in whichever Breakthrough T1D volunteer role you’re interested in.

  • Do I need to have a connection to type 1 diabetes?

    Not at all! For some of our roles you will need a connection to type 1 diabetes, to share your experiences or to tell us what it’s like to live with type 1. But we have plenty of roles that don’t need you to have a connection to type 1, such as being one of our Events Crew volunteers, offering your professional experience and expertise, or by taking on fundraising support or administration roles.

  • How much time do I need to give?

    How much time you decide to give is entirely up to you, but is often dependent on the role that you are interested in. For some roles, like our Insight and Experience Panel, you can give as much or as little time as you want to. We are very flexible with volunteering opportunities as we understand that everyone who volunteers has other commitments too.

  • Will you pay expenses?

    We believe nobody should be out of pocket for giving valuable time and support to us. We cover all reasonable expenses, including travel and, in some cases, the cost of a meal (please note this does not apply to home-based volunteers).

  • Once I have chosen a role will this be the only way I can volunteer?

    Not at all, if you would like to change your role with us or take on an additional role we will be happy to arrange this for you.

  • I’m not sure how I want to help but I would like to get involved

    If you’ve browsed our volunteering roles but are still unsure about what you would like to do just answer a few questions and complete your details on our volunteer sign-up form and one of our team will contact you to chat through your options and ideas.

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