Cara is the Irish word for “friend”. As a Cara your role at camp is to look after the daily ...
Volunteer
Volunteers create the magic for children and families living with serious illness.
Find your best fit
We require over 2,500 volunteers each year to help run our programmes. We offer volunteer opportunities as part of our Residential Camps and Outreach programmes. You need to be 19 years or over to volunteer. Volunteers are a huge part of the heart and soul of Barretstown. You play a leading role in providing the magical, transforming experience we give our campers and their families.
Hear from our Caras
Hear from some of our Caras about what it's like to volunteer at Barretstown.
Barretstown Camps - Spring 2024 Volunteer Camp Calendar
All volunteers must arrive at the stated time for onsite training
Barretstown Camps - Summer 2024 Volunteer Camp Calendar
Residential Camp Volunteer Opportunities
Family & Bereavement Camps run over weekends and the commitment is 3/4 days. Children & Teen camp commitment vary from 4 to 8 days. Volunteering is residential with all meals provided. Volunte ...
Interpreters perform a very important role in translating and acting as the link between campers ...
The Barretstown medical centre is known as the “Med Shed”. Each summer we require volunteer ...
Volunteer as part of our Outreach Programmes
These programmes bring the joyful spirit of Barretstown to children and families beyond our gates throughout the year. We run Hospital Outreach Programmes, Camp in Schools and Camp on the move.
Have some questions or want to have a chat?
Got some questions? We would be delighted to talk to you and answer any questions you may have. Just click below to fill in your details or call us on 045 863 100.
Get In TouchWhat should I expect?
How we support you
Training is provided for all volunteers. As a new volunteer you will work along trained staff and returning volunteers for guidance. You will always work as part of team with plenty of support. At camp you’re active all day helping our campers get the most out of their experience through encouragement and support in all aspects of camp life while having serious fun.
Quote from a Family
Just wonderful people.The volunteers are such great role model for the kids. My 11 year old daughter said that she wants to volunteer at Barretstown when she is old enough. I think that this is just incredible that not only is she having a wonderful experience she is also meeting people who give up their time to help others and is moved to consider volunteering herself when she's old enough. What a great endorsement of the cara programme
How you make a difference
Volunteers are the heart and soul of Barretstown. Volunteers play a lead role in providing the magical, transforming experience we give our campers and their families.
Quote Volunteer 2020: It’s hard to describe what exactly you do there. You’re given the role of “Cara” (friend in Irish) and basically you’re just that. After the first time I volunteered I knew I was coming back – it was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had
Still wondering what Barretstown is all about?
Have a look yourself
Other ways you can get involved
Interested in completing your internship or work placement with Barretstown?
Have a few hours to spare? Why not join our network of Community Champions.
