Volunteering with MAB
Get involved
Make a real difference in the lives of people with sight loss — from one hour a week.
At MAB, our volunteers give their time to support people with sight loss across nine London boroughs. They are the reason we can reach as many people as we do — and we have done since 1922.
Volunteers visit people in their own homes — reading post, helping with forms, and accompanying service users on shopping trips and outings. Often, it is simply the regular company that matters most. Whatever you can offer, it makes a real difference to someone living with sight loss.
A volunteer and a service user out for a walk — the everyday work of MAB.
Why your support matters
Our volunteers play a crucial role in enabling MAB to offer a wide range of support to our service users.
We are always in need of more compassionate and committed individuals — especially for our Home Visiting Service.
How you can help.
As a volunteer, you can make a significant difference in the lives of people with sight loss. The work is varied — some of it practical, some of it about being there.
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Reading mail
Letters, bills and correspondence — read aloud or sorted.
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Paperwork & forms
Help completing applications, returns and official forms.
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Companionship
Friendly visits and emotional support — especially for those living alone.
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IT & tech support
Training and help using phones, screen readers and computers.
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Sharing your skills
Bring your unique skills and expertise to the role.
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Specific individual needs
Supporting one person, on the things that matter to them.
Volunteer spotlight
Noula — Ealing
Noula, who is visually impaired herself, plays an important part in the smooth running of events across the Ealing region. A passionate supporter and a wonderful volunteer — she represents MAB at talks and events, and visits and phones service users on our behalf.
Volunteer spotlight
Dianne — editorial
MAB volunteer Dianne is working with a service user to complete editing, proof-reading and publication of a set of short stories written by the service user — showing how volunteers can use their professional skills to make a real difference.
The most essential qualities are the simplest ones.
Patience
An understanding and supportive approach.
Empathy
Genuine care for others’ wellbeing.
Friendliness
A warm and welcoming personality.
Our team is diverse — all ages and cultural backgrounds, each bringing unique experiences. Whether you’re retired, unemployed or working full-time, we’d be delighted to have you join us if you can commit to at least one hour per week.
Hear from our volunteer
Donna — twenty years of service.
Donna, one of MAB’s dedicated Enfield volunteers, recently won a Lifetime Achievement Award from Enfield Council for her outstanding 20+ years of service.
Become a volunteer
Ready to make a difference?
One hour a week is enough. We provide a free half-day awareness course, so you’ll feel confident from your very first visit. No prior experience needed.