Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation

Volunteering with the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to creating a more equitable and inclusive society.

By dedicating your time and skills, you play a vital role in supporting initiatives that empower and uplift the next generation.

Why volunteer with us?

Volunteering with the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation allows you to be part of a national conversation and demonstrate your commitment to creating a fairer society. Your involvement helps inspire young people to achieve their potential and fosters community engagement towards inclusivity and respect.

Being part of the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation has been life-changing. I’ve met incredible people, shared stories that matter, and contributed to building a fairer future. It’s more than volunteering – it’s becoming part of something bigger.

- Amara Thompson, Community Engagement Volunteer

Ways to Get Involved

Youth Council: Join our Youth Board to help develop a connected safe space that empowers and supports young people nationwide. As a member, you’ll contribute advice, feedback, and critical thinking to the foundation, helping us build a community both online and at events.

Community Initiatives: Participate in activities such as writing and performing spoken word poetry about Stephen’s life, designing posters that celebrate his legacy, or engaging in simple acts of kindness within your community. These initiatives encourage creativity and promote positive change.

What You Will Gain

  • Impact: Directly influence the foundation’s initiatives and programs, contributing to a more equitable society.
  • Networking: Collaborate with other passionate individuals within the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation’s network.
  • Growth: Develop valuable skills and experiences in leadership, communication, teamwork, and project management.​
  • Social Change: Play a vital role in delivering our mission to foster opportunities for marginalized young people in the UK.

How to Apply

We welcome applications in various formats—be it a video, letter, or CV—whatever works best for you. Share with us who you are, why you’re interested in volunteering, your hobbies, interests, strengths, and any other information you’d like to include. Please send your application to info@stephenlawrenceday.org. We will review all applications and contact successful candidates to discuss the next steps.​

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us at info@stephenlawrenceday.org.​

Your dedication and support are invaluable in helping us continue Stephen’s legacy and drive meaningful change in our communities.​

As a young person, I’ve always wanted to use my voice for good. Volunteering with the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation has given me the platform to help shape real conversations around equity and justice. It’s empowered me—and now I want to empower others.

- Jordan Malik, Youth Council Representative

Find your perfect volunteering role

We offer a wide range of volunteering opportunities to suit different lifestyles, skills, and levels of availability. Some roles are hands-on and community-based, while others can be done from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re looking for something regular or more flexible, we’re confident there’s a role for you.

GET INVOLVED

Want to be there as a child’s life changes for the better?

From helping run a parent and baby session in a children’s centre, supporting disabled children as they take part in school holiday activities or building a lationship with a young person being cared for b long-term relationship with a young person being cared for by their local authority, there’s lots of ways you can help children and young people thrive.

Want to be there as a child’s life changes for the better?

From helping run a parent and baby session in a children’s centre, supporting disabled children as they take part in school holiday activities or building a lationship with a young person being cared for b long-term relationship with a young person being cared for by their local authority, there’s lots of ways you can help children and young people thrive.

Want to be there as a child’s life changes for the better?

From helping run a parent and baby session in a children’s centre, supporting disabled children as they take part in school holiday activities or building a lationship with a young person being cared for b long-term relationship with a young person being cared for by their local authority, there’s lots of ways you can help children and young people thrive.

Child poverty has been central to our work since Barnardo’s was founded more than 150 years ago, and our new strategy makes clear that it remains central to everything we do today.

- Lynn Perry

CEO of Barnardo’s

Applying to become a volunteer

Have a look at our volunteering website and once you’ve found a role you’d like to do, apply by pressing the green “click here to apply” button. 
The next step is an interview for you to get to know us, as well as the other way round! Your potential volunteer manager will chat to you about the role and learn more about you, so you can both find out if it could be a good fit. They’ll also discuss any disability or support needs you may have. Wherever possible, we’ll make reasonable adjustment to ensure you can carry out the role.

Disclosure checks

To do some of our roles volunteers need to first undergo disclosure checks to see if they have criminal convictions and cautions. If the role you have applied for requires either a DBS (England and Wales), PVG (Scotland) or Access NI (Northern Ireland) check, we will take you through the process.
Having a criminal record will not necessarily stop you from volunteering with us. It will depend on the nature of any offences and the role you want to apply for. We would encourage you to discuss this with your volunteer manager in your initial conversation.

References

You’ll need to give us the names and contact details of two people who can provide a reference for you. This helps us make sure we are keeping the children, young people and families we support safe. Your referees must have known you for at least two years and not be related to you in any way. They can be from outside the UK, but references must be written in English.

How long does the application process take?

After you submit your application we know you’ll be keen to hear back from us. The volunteer manager who looks after the role will try and respond to you within five working days, but there may be times where we take longer. If you have not heard from someone within 10 working days, please email volunteering@barnardos.org.uk.
The time the application process takes can vary. Your volunteer manager will be able to give you a better idea based on the local process. They’ll stay in touch by email, telephone, or our online system where you make your application, to let you know where things are. You can also contact them to find out what’s happening with your application if you have any questions in the meantime.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about volunteering

Below we’ve written answers to some questions we often get asked about volunteering. If you have a question that’s not answered here, please contact the volunteer manager for the opportunity you are interested in. You can contact them via the green “ask a question” button on the page that describes the role on our volunteering website.

Questions about what it’s like to volunteer

How much time do I need to commit to volunteering? Can I be flexible with my volunteering hours?

There’s no minimum time commitment when volunteering with us. However, for some roles we do ask you to help us regularly so there’s continuity for the children, young people and families we support. We have a range of roles so we are confident that we can find something to suit your needs, be that regular or flexible volunteering.

There’s no minimum time commitment when volunteering with us. However, for some roles we do ask you to help us regularly so there’s continuity for the children, young people and families we support. We have a range of roles so we are confident that we can find something to suit your needs, be that regular or flexible volunteering.

There’s no minimum time commitment when volunteering with us. However, for some roles we do ask you to help us regularly so there’s continuity for the children, young people and families we support. We have a range of roles so we are confident that we can find something to suit your needs, be that regular or flexible volunteering.

There’s no minimum time commitment when volunteering with us. However, for some roles we do ask you to help us regularly so there’s continuity for the children, young people and families we support. We have a range of roles so we are confident that we can find something to suit your needs, be that regular or flexible volunteering.

There’s no minimum time commitment when volunteering with us. However, for some roles we do ask you to help us regularly so there’s continuity for the children, young people and families we support. We have a range of roles so we are confident that we can find something to suit your needs, be that regular or flexible volunteering.

There’s no minimum time commitment when volunteering with us. However, for some roles we do ask you to help us regularly so there’s continuity for the children, young people and families we support. We have a range of roles so we are confident that we can find something to suit your needs, be that regular or flexible volunteering.

Yes. SLDF’s is a Disability Confident level 3 employer, and we apply this good practice to volunteering as well. Part of our recruitment process is ensuring that the role is right for you. Please detail any disability or support needs in your application and our volunteer manager will have an open and honest conversation with you about this. Wherever possible, we will make reasonable adjustment to ensure you can carry out the role.

Ready to start volunteering?

Keep in touch

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EMAIL ADDRESS

We respect your privacy, and will only use your details to send you relevant information about the Foundation, including the latest newsletter updates and details of any new available resources. Your information is safe with us – we will never share it with anyone else. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy (link opens in a new window). If you don’t want to hear from us, please email info@stephenlawrenceday.org You can unsubscribe at any time.

THOMAS AQUILINA

STEPHEN LAWRENCE DAY FELLOW, LONDN SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE

The London School of Architecture has appointed Thomas Aquilina as its inaugural Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation Fellow through the generous donation of the Foundation in September 2021 under the instigation of founding LSA Vice-Chair Elsie Owusu OBE and the RIBA, marking another significant step in the LSA’s commitment to widening access and participation in architectural education.

Through this Fellowship, Thomas is committed to researching means of tackling of historic and current underrepresentation of black and other racialised groups in the architecture profession. A tutor in Critical Practice and Design History at the LSA, Thomas is a registered architect and educator dedicated to building communities of radical thought and progressive practice. He is a co-director of the New Architecture Writers programme and a co-founder of the publishing collective Afterparti. Thomas is also investigating local understandings of spatial justice in London as a Design Researcher in Residence at the Design Museum. As a past recipient of the Stephen Lawrence Architecture bursary, Thomas’ trajectory in architecture is one indebted to Stephen’s legacy. Under the fellowship, Thomas looks to:
  • Lead conversations at the LSA around curriculum reform, in particular in relation to decoloniality, decarbonisation and destandardisation.
  • Work on delivering on the strategic priorities contained in the LSA’s ambitious Access and Participation Plan, which seeks to increase the number of Black and Asian students in its cohorts, and students from low-income and low-participation backgrounds.
  • Cultivate and nurture relationships with local schools, devising an ambitious ‘Part 0’ outreach programme.
  • Serve as a visible role model and mentor within to the school to underrepresented racialised groups.

The LSA once again wishes to express its gratitude to the RIBA, Elsie Owusu and the vision of Baroness Lawrence for enabling such pioneering research and action at the LSA and subsequently the wider architectural community.

LSA Stephen Lawrence Foundation Fellow, Thomas Aquilina, said:
“At this exciting time of new directorship for The LSA, I want to support the work of building an architecture school that is attune to the value of equitable and radical perspectives.”

Baroness Doreen Lawrence said:
“I am pleased to see that the LSA has appointed Thomas Aquilina to lead on this ambitious plan in researching decoloniality in architecture. For too long access to the profession of architecture was limited and challenging for those from underrepresented groups, this will be a great asset in widening participation for all.”

London School of Architecture Head of School and CEO, Dr Neal Shasore, said:
“It is fantastic that, thanks to this donation, we have been able to offer this new Fellowship. In an intensely competitive field, Thomas’s vision of what we could achieve was truly inspiring. I am looking forward to working closely with him over the coming year, ensuring the LSA leads the conversation around decoloniality and architectural education.”

JASON MBUKU

Freshfields Stephen Lawrence Scholar

To say I was grateful to be named as a Freshfields Stephen Lawrence Scholar would be an understatement. The application process was tough but enjoyable and I’m very proud of myself for having been successful. I can’t wait to get started and learn the invaluable skills Freshfields have in store for us, [and] meeting some amazing people in the process.

Tyron Denton

FRESHFIELDS STEPHEN LAWRENCE SCHOLAR

Why did you decide to apply for the Freshfields Stephen Lawrence Scholarship?
After receiving an email from Mrs Gillow and shortly after having a meeting with her, I did some more research on Freshfields and more importantly the Stephen Lawrence Scheme. Aside from knowing that it would be a great opportunity regardless of whether I received a scholarship, the aims of addressing the underrepresentation of black male students within City careers in the name of Stephen Lawrence was truly compelling.

How did you feel when you heard you were selected for the scholarship?
I was extremely grateful. As a man of faith I couldn’t stop giving thanks to God as it would not have been possible without his favour. I was also extremely grateful to be part of an empowering scheme that will undoubtedly leave a legacy to inspire black men in the future.

What does the scholarship offer and what do you feel you have gained from the opportunity?
The scholarship has a lot to offer, far more than just monetary contribution towards studies. It’s a 15-month development programme tailored to each scholar including career advice, work experience, an alternative route to an interview for a training contract at Freshfields mentoring amongst much more. I am still in the very early stages of this journey, however from the insight day and assessment centres alone I have gained an incredible amount. I have been able to meet and converse with accomplished professionals who work within the City, and fellow students, all of which has given me a better perspective to careers and life in general.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of applying?
If you are thinking of applying, I would highly recommend speaking with the university contact for the Scheme. I’d say enter the process with an open mind and willingness to learn more about yourself, others, and careers. It sounds very cliché, but be yourself. Freshfields genuinely want to get to know you as a person, from the application to the assessment centres, so showcase the best version of yourself. In doing so you’ll also find that you gain a lot more from the experience, whether that be mentors, friends, or gaining a better understanding of your strengths and weaknesses.

Robert Gomez

STEPHEN LAWRENCE BURSARY STUDENT

Different people have different backgrounds and people’s financial situations are not the same. I needed the financial help of a bursary or it would have been a case of me not going to university.

“The bursary has completely changed my time at DMU. It means I can spend more of the day focussing on the course rather than having to worry about other stuff.

“If this bursary was not in place it would have been incredibly difficult to manage university life.

“I am enjoying the course. When you are given a brief in the first year of study you can go wild with it. You are allowed to go crazy. You can create a building and then turn it on its head. You have the freedom of creativity. I think it’s a different story from the second year onwards!
“Architecture was the dream for me since secondary school. The bursary has solidified that dream and is turning it into reality.

“Hopefully in a few years’ time I will be running my own practice. It is a long journey but it’s got to be done when it comes to having ambitions in your life.”

Grace Carter

STEPHEN LAWRENCE BURSARY STUDENT

‘Growing up with a single parent as a mixed raced girl, I have seen how hard life can be. My mum brought me up to work hard and to believe in myself so I applied for an internship in London, knowing I would struggle to find and pay for accommodation. It seemed like an impossible task to afford to live in London and pursue my career however thanks to the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation I have been able to flourish in London. I have been able to access my current workplace without any hassle due to the support the Foundation has given me. I’m eternally grateful for this generosity and still can’t believe I’m able to stay in such nice accommodation that is so close to my workplace without worrying about finances.

Stephen Appiah Kubi

As a Scholar, one of the ways I take advantage of the power of learning is that I am encouraged to develop a commercially aware outlook that follows current socioeconomic, political, legal, and technological issues. In analyzing how these issues affect businesses, we develop a more entrepreneurial mindset.

The power of learning extends far beyond tackling business challenges. It equips us with the knowledge and understanding needed to address inequality and drive positive change for a more inclusive society. Embracing an attitude of learning forces us to let go of lazy assumptions and ignorant generalisations, ones that divide our society.”

DAN HORNER

STEPHEN LAWRENCE BURSARY STUDENT

‘The accommodation bursary granted to me was the biggest anxiety relief, moving down to London and pursuing a placement opportunity was daunting enough without the added pressure of finding accommodation. The bursary has allowed me to enjoy what London has to offer as well as learning new skills on my placement that can enhance my career prospects in the industry I love.

The accommodation is perfect for my needs, safe and well located with transport links, I am forever indebted to the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation for allowing me to have this opportunity with minimum worry.

Thank you again for all the support.’