Tilly Riisager

I manage and coordinate all volunteers, from recruitment and onboarding through to day-to-day support. I have designed and developed our volunteer onboarding process, ensuring all volunteers are fully vetted, compliant, safe and well-supported. I work closely with volunteers on the ground - coordinating activities, distributing supplies, gathering feedback and building relationships based on individuals’ strengths, interests and development goals.

Alongside volunteer management, I oversee the TimeGivers external communications, contribute to marketing strategy and impact reporting and ensure our branding is reflective of our values. I also lead projects and events on the ground and have contributed at a strategic level to the development of our new tech and CRM systems.

I bring a strong background in frontline social and community work. I am qualified in Low Intensity CBT and previously worked within NHS Talking Therapies, supporting adults experiencing mild to moderate depression, anxiety and panic disorder through evidence-based guided self-help. I also worked as a Support Worker at St Mungo’s, supporting people experiencing homelessness to identify personal goals, access services and navigate complex systems, working closely with a range of partner agencies. Earlier in my career, I worked at The National Archives, reflecting my long-standing interest in community, art and history.

I am deeply passionate about TimeGivers’ focus on prevention and early intervention. I believe meaningful change starts by opening up honest conversations with young people about diversity, adversity and community - and by giving them the tools to make a difference. Growing up with an older brother with learning needs and physical disabilities has shaped my belief that all young people can give back when given equal opportunities. I am particularly motivated by creating inclusive and accessible volunteering opportunities for young people with SEND, those at-risk and those facing barriers.

One of my most meaningful experiences at TimeGivers was working with Garratt Park Secondary School, our first SEND school. I project-coordinated a long-term programme where Year 11 students and local volunteers met weekly at the school to learn DIY and woodwork skills, transforming a grey playground into a greener, more welcoming space using recycled and donated materials. The project became a space for genuine skills-sharing and a powerful example of long-term commitment and collective effort. Saying goodbye as the students moved on was incredibly hard, made even more special when one student received a Jack Petchey Award for her dedication. It remains one of the most human and grounding experiences I’ve had since moving to London.