Assistant Driver

Posted for Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter

Posted by Volunteer Centre Newcastle

You will be redirected to the Volunteer Centre Newcastle website to express your interest.

Our volunteer driver assistants play a vital behind-the-scenes role in keeping the shelter running smoothly, ensuring that animals can access essential medical treatment promptly and that our shops and donation points are well-stocked and operational. Without this logistical support, the pressure on our animal care and retail staff would be significant. You’ll be helping to keep every part of the organisation connected and functioning, directly supporting the welfare of every animal in our care.

What you will be doing:

This is a varied, active and physically demanding role carried out alongside our shelter driver in shelter vehicles. No two days are the same, and your contribution will be felt across the whole organisation.

Assisting with the safe transportation of our animals to and from veterinary appointments (our vet is based in Gosforth), ensuring they are calm, secure and well-handled throughout
Collecting donated items from donation points across North Tyneside and Newcastle, loading and unloading stock safely and efficiently
Transferring stock and donated items between our shelter, donation points and retail stores at Four Lane Ends and Wallsend
Assisting with the organised storage of donated items at the shelter
Representing the shelter professionally when collecting donations or liaising with members of the public, acting as an ambassador for our work
Following an induction period and successful completion of our internal driving assessment, deputising for our driver when required due to sickness or annual leave

What will you get out of it?

Join an inclusive and diverse organisation that has been re-homing animals since 1896.

Have fun, meet new people and be part of a motivated team who are making a difference to the lives of our animals.

Learn new skills and gain experience to enhance your CV.

Share skills and knowledge that you have.

Gain the satisfaction giving back to our community

Training to fulfil your volunteer role will be provided and reasonable out of pocket travel expenses will be reimbursed.

What skills do I need?

What you need for this role?

Hold a valid driving licence that permits driving of a category B vehicle
Physical fitness and the ability to lift, carry and manoeuvre heavy items repeatedly over the course of a session
A reliable and punctual approach - the animals and the team depend on you turning up as scheduled
A calm, confident manner when handling or being in close proximity to animals during transportation
A professional and friendly approach when representing the shelter with members of the public and donation partners
The ability to follow procedures and work within a framework designed to keep animals, volunteers and members of the public safe
Flexibility and adaptability. Tasks and priorities can change quickly and a willing, positive attitude is essential
Strong communication skills and the ability to work well both as part of a team and independently
Enthusiasm, reliability and a genuine love of animals!

Posted for Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter

Posted by Volunteer Centre Newcastle

You will be redirected to the Volunteer Centre Newcastle website to express your interest.

Details

Accessibility
Age restrictions
DBS check required
Equal Opportunities Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Ongoing support
Volunteer induction
Volunteer Policy
Volunteers covered by insurance
Written role description

When is this role available?

When: 25/09/2026 - 29/12/2027

	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat	Sun
Morning
Afternoon
Evening

We are looking for volunteers on a weekdays from 8am till noon or 10am till 4pm.
On occasion we may ask you to help at shelter fundraising events outside of these hours, if you are able to do so