Cleaning & General Volunteer

About us

Pawz for Thought is a charity based in Sunderland that helps animals in need across the North East. Since our beginning in 2003 we have grown and are now a very busy charity, helping thousands of animals each year. The animals we help include companion animals such as cats, rabbits, birds and other animals, as well as a huge range of wildlife. Our incredible volunteers support everything we do: animal rescue and transport; animal care; cleaning; admin and reception; fundraising and events; fostering and rehoming.

We are an entirely volunteer-run organisation and therefore are always looking for volunteers to support us in a range of roles.

The role

We are currently looking for volunteers to support with the cleaning and tidying of our Sunderland rescue in North Hylton. This will be a busy role with a range of tasks.

Main tasks and activities

• General cleaning around the offices and animal rooms.
• Deep cleaning areas (may include jobs such as power hosing areas etc).
• Cleaning animal pens where necessary.
• Cleaning equipment such as bowls, trays, cages, carriers, storage areas etc.
• Sweeping floors and generally tidying and cleaning.
• Washing and drying used bedding/towels/blankets.
• Helping with tasks such as ripping newspaper for hedgehog boxes, organising donations and storage areas, refilling food boxes.
• Putting away any donations and unused equipment.
• Cleaning volunteer areas such as the kitchen and toilet.
• Representing Pawz in a friendly and professional manner.

There is scope for other tasks that suit your skills or interests, such as building cages and other practical tasks.

Relevant skills

• Experience of cleaning or general maintenance would be brilliant, but not necessary.
• An interest and/or passion for wildlife and animals.
• Comfortable working around animals.
• Experience of or a willingness to adhere to organisational policies and procedures.
• Ability to work independently and use your initiative, as things can often be very busy.
• Attention to detail.
• Punctual, reliable and trustworthy.
• Ability to work well in a team.
• Strong listening skills.
• Ability to be flexible, resilient and able to problem-solve.
• Non-judgmental, open minded and empathetic attitude.
• Ideally, volunteers will be able to give a half day or day regularly.

What this role can offer volunteers

• Induction and support.
• Opportunity to develop and utilise your skills and experience.
• Gain valuable experience.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Being part of a team and supporting the organisation.
• The chance to play a vital part in helping animals.

If you would like to apply for this role, or to have a conversation about it, please get in touch at volunteering@pawzforthought.org