How do I write an engaging role description?

A clear, inclusive role description helps volunteers feel confident and excited to get involved. Use this checklist to help you write a role description that keeps it simple and effective:

Keep it clear and inclusive

Use plain, welcoming language—avoid jargon and technical terms.

Share accessibility info

Let volunteers know if the role is accessible and if adjustments can be made. (We’ve linked to our Writing Accessible Roles Guide to help you with this.)

Set realistic expectations

Be upfront about time commitment, tasks, and any specific days or times they’ll be volunteering.

Make it easy to read

Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and markdown formatting to structure your description clearly. Don't overload the potential volunteer with too much information keep it to the key points. (We’ve linked to our Markdown Guide for tips.)

Show the impact

In the Impact section, explain how the role makes a difference—whether it’s helping others, supporting a cause, or improving the community.

List key skills

In the Skills Required section, include anything essential like:

• Using IT equipment
• Great communication
• Being welcoming to all

Add helpful extras

Include anything else you think is important for the volunteer to know before they apply. You could mention if the role is outdoors (and what to wear), or if there are any special requirements, how many other volunteers they might be working with etc 

Think about why someone might be volunteering, are they looking to make a difference, they might be hoping to make new friends or build new skills so highlight this in your description.