Volunteering as a Macmillan Buddy

Our Macmillan Buddy service provides a lifeline for people with cancer, offering them weekly support from someone who understands what they’re going through. The service is delivered by volunteers, who undergo a comprehensive training programme and are fully supported by a team of staff and lead volunteers. 

We have temporarily paused volunteer recruitment to the Macmillan Buddies scheme, following very strong interest in the role in early 2024. We expect to re-open recruitment for the role later in 2024. Please check back on this page for updates.

We have a wide range of other roles on offer at Macmillan. You can find more information on all of our types of volunteering using the headings above or by attending one of our online information sessions. You can also view all currently available roles in the 'Find a role' section.

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One service, multiple forms of support

The Macmillan Buddy service currently offers support in two formats (though we are looking to introduce a video call format soon): 

  • Telephone Buddying – This involves providing company, a listening ear and occasional advice such as signposting towards other Macmillan services. 

  • Community Buddying – This is where the volunteer visits the service user face-to-face in the local community, usually the service user’s home. This can also include offering support with simple practical tasks around the home.

In each case, support is usually provided weekly and for a period of up to 12 weeks.

Why become a Buddy volunteer?

Being a Macmillan Buddy is one of the most intensive volunteer roles we offer, but it is also one of the most rewarding. As a Macmillan Buddy volunteer, you can make a real difference to people’s lives, at the hardest time of their life, and you’ll get to feel that each time you volunteer. 

You’ll also: 

  • Be a key part of a friendly team of volunteers and staff 
  • Receive comprehensive training and support 
  • Have the opportunity to develop your communication and people skills 
  • Receive out of pocket expenses, in line with our expenses policy 
We also offer the opportunity to be a Lead Volunteer in the service – this involves taking a more managerial role in service, helping to match service users with volunteers and supporting both service users and volunteers throughout the match.

This is a great opportunity to develop advanced leadership and communication skills, whilst supporting a friendly team of committed volunteers. 

Asha, Community & Telephone Buddy 

"One of the ladies I supported had a lovely garden so we used to enjoy that together, I would make her a brew and have a chat.

With every person you speak to, you meet and talk to people with interesting backgrounds. You will give and get something different each time."

A man smiling while taking a phone call

Stewart, Telephone Buddy

"I like meeting new people and finding out about them. I’m there as a listening ear and for a warm-hearted conversation.

There is something really special about supporting someone over the phone. It's the most rewarding thing I have done in a long time."

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