Volunteer with Cheltenham Guardians Safeguarding Team

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Are you ready to make a real difference in Cheltenham’s night-time economy? The Cheltenham Guardians Safeguarding Team (CGST) is looking for compassionate, resilient, and dedicated women to join our specialist female safeguarding service. Since 2015, we’ve been safeguarding thousands of women and girls every Saturday night from 10pm to 4am, working alongside emergency services to ensure their safety, security, and well-being.

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What We Do

As a Cheltenham Guardian safeguarding officer, you’ll be on the frontline, providing proactive and reactive support through uniformed patrols, threat monitoring and intervention. From responding to violent incidents to offering a reassuring presence, our work is challenging, rewarding, and vital. We set a high bar for our volunteers because the stakes are high—service users depend on us to make the right decisions at the right time.

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Who We’re Looking For

We need female volunteers who are caring, compassionate, physically fit and ready to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. To address an age imbalance in our team, we’re ideally seeking candidates aged 18–40, though we’ll consider older applicants if they demonstrate the right qualities. You’ll need stamina, emotional resilience, and a commitment to safeguarding others, even when tested to your limits. This isn’t for everyone, Guardians have been first responders to serious incidents including a murder, violent and sexual assaults, so please consider this carefully before applying.

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Requirements

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• Female (due to the nature of our work with vulnerable women)

• Ideally aged 18–40 (older candidates considered if suitable)

• A good level of physical fitness and stamina

• Compassionate and calm under pressure

• Willingness to undertake rigorous training and meet strict entry standards

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Uniform

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Given our very limited resources, Guardian volunteers are required to pay for their own uniform (which may cost in excess of £300 with seasonal variations). Don't worry! We can help you fundraise for this if needed.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to step up and become a probationary Guardian safeguarding officer, please complete the preliminary application form below.

Not sure you’re fit enough for front-line work? Consider volunteering with our Nightcare Hub instead (see below).

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Volunteer with the Nightcare Hub

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Looking for a meaningful way to support Cheltenham’s community without the physical demands of frontline work? The Nightcare Hub is seeking kind-hearted volunteers to provide a safe haven for women in need during Cheltenham’s Saturday night-time economy (10pm–4am). As part of the Cheltenham Guardians family, the Nightcare Hub offers a vital space for rest, recovery, and support.

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What We Do

The Nightcare Hub is a lifeline for women who need a break from the night—a place to recharge, access support, or arrange safe transport home. Volunteers here play a key role in welcoming service users, providing emotional support, and coordinating with our wider team to ensure everyone gets the care they need.

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Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking female volunteers with a warm, empathetic nature and a desire to help others in a less physically demanding role. If you’re calm, approachable, and ready to offer a listening ear, this could be the perfect fit for you. While less intense than frontline Guardian duties, your contribution will still have a profound impact.

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Requirements

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• Female (to align with our female-focused safeguarding mission)

• Caring and compassionate demeanor

• Ability to work calmly in a supportive role

• Willingness to train and collaborate with the CGST team​

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How to Apply

Ready to lend a hand at the Nightcare Hub? Please complete the preliminary application form below. This is your chance to support women in a safe, welcoming environment and be part of a team that’s transforming lives.