Administration support volunteer roles in oakham, rutland

Our amazing team of volunteers helps us run over 600 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help to raise vital funds. These funds are then used to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and their families across the UK.

Over 60 donation centres receive and distribute 100’s of bags of stock every single week. All of these donations need to be lifted and shifted so they end up in the right shops - we don’t require a weightlifter, but you will be need to be physically fit to help move the many donations we receive.

As well as working up a sweat, our donation centres also sell a variety of stock which all need processing and putting on the shop floor. Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till once in a while, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.

You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.

Why we want you

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 600 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

What you will be doing

• Sorting large amounts of donations and stock
• Work on the till processing sales and returns
• Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
• Create stylish window displays
• Replenish stock on the shop floor
• Stock-take and other administrative tasks

The skills you need

• Physically able to lift and carry large amounts of stock within our Health & Safety Guidelines
• Friendly and helpful
• Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
• Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
• Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks

What's in it for you

• Have fun and meet new people
• Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
• Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
• Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
• Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer

Location:

Unit 2b, 30/40 London Road, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 6HJ, United Kingdom

Minimum age: 14 years

Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK

We are looking for a Director of Events & Operations to join YAF’s leadership team for the next two years starting in June 2025. We are looking for an enthusiastic and committed individual to manage our programme of events and oversee our operational management.

What you’ll gain:

• Valuable leadership experience in a respected arts organisation 

• Expanded professional network across the cultural sector

• Opportunity to design our strategy and shape YAF’s future

• Skills in events management, leadership, and strategy planning

• Chance to make a significant impact on the future of arts fundraising

• Experience working with a passionate team dedicated to improving acccessibility in arts fundraising

A strong interest in arts fundraising and the aspiration to develop your career within the cultural sector are essential. It is not essential that you currently work within the arts. 

Would you like to be part of our future?  After a period of growth Grassroots Suicide Prevention are seeking to recruit further trustees.

We are a national suicide prevention charity, and our vision is a future where more lives are saved from suicide. We empower people to help saves lives from suicide through connecting, educating, and campaigning nationally:

· Connecting: We listen and connect people to support through our Stay Alive app, tools, and resources to help keep people safe from suicide.

· Educating: We offer bespoke and evidence-based consultation and training, co-designed to empower individuals, organisations, and communities to develop the skills and confidence to help save lives.

· Campaigning: We help remove the stigma around suicide. We know that most suicides are preventable with timely intervention and the right support. We raise awareness through campaigning on the ground and influencing at a strategic level.

As a Trustee, you will be joining a charity in a strong position with an ambition to build on our successes.  We will be looking to build on existing activities and developing new innovative projects.

Trustees are our most senior leaders. They set our strategic direction, make sure we’re using our resources effectively and ensure we’re having the greatest possible impact in the communities in which we work. Trustees are expected to undertake duties in a manner that reflects GSP’s values and ethos.

We are particularly looking for Trustees with skills and experience in one of the following areas:

•  charity experience, ideally a CEO or former CEO who has grown a local charity into a national

• fundraising and/or someone who sits across marketing, comms and fundraising but with more experience on fundraising than comms 

• frontline support both online/digital and face to face in health and social care 

• business development and networking

We are a friendly and welcoming organisation and are passionate about what we do. You’ll be joining our Board of Trustees at an exciting time with lots of opportunities to build on our success over the next few years. If you have the time and enthusiasm to be part of something amazing, please get in touch.

We welcome applications from those with lived experience.

If you would like to apply and/or find out more about this position, please see the job description attached.

Volunteer opportunity to help White Ribbon Aliiance UK's update our website content and configuration so that they are relevant, engaging and user-friendly to support our mission to improve maternal and reproductive health. 

Role Description 

Role: Website Management Volunteer (Volunteer, unpaid)

Supported by: Movement Director

About White Ribbon Alliance UK: We prioritise the eradication of gender-based violence and the promotion of gender equity in sexual and reproductive health and rights, especially for marginalised and underrepresented communities. We enable access to unbiased and evidenced-based resources, education, and support for women, girls, and trans individuals. We influence healthcare professionals, hospital systems, policy makers, and the public to centre the human rights of women, girls and trans men, intersex, and non-binary people throughout the lifecycle of their sexual health needs. 

Purpose of the Role: The Volunteer Website Manager will support White Ribbon Alliance UK's efforts to improve maternal and reproductive health by helping us on a two month project working to polish up our websites to keep them relevant, up to date and engaging for members of the public. 

Our aspirations for activities the volunteer would perform:

• Review our websites and provide constructive feedback and pragmatic recommendations for improvement.

• Update and maintain our website, ensuring it’s visually appealing and aligns with our brand.

• Ensure that content on our websites meets with internal and external policies and guidelines.

• Work with our team to understand website needs and integrate feedback for improvements.

• Utilise SharePoint and Microsoft Teams for collaboration and document management. 

• Handle ad hoc work required by the charity such as social media, copy writing, administrative tasks, etc.

NOTE: We are looking for volunteers who can reliably contribute 5 or more hours per week for an 8-10 week period to the charity. 

Necessary skills and qualifications:

• Proven expertise in creating and maintaining websites.

• Interest in sexual and reproductive health (SRHR). 

• Strong understanding of, and passion for, intersectional feminism. 

• Effective communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Familiarity with website building tools such as GoDaddy, Squarespace, and Wix.

• Proficiency in Canva, Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, or similar platforms. 

Desirable skills and qualifications: ​

• Photo and video editing skills. 

• Social media content creation skills.

• A basic understanding of HTML. 

Why volunteer with us?

• A referencable project for your CV and portfolio.

• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects in the SRHR space. 

• Development of new skills, including experience working in nationwide non-profit organization. 

• Network with professionals and activists in the field.

• Personal and professional development opportunities, including rerenceable projects for your portfolio.

• Flexible volunteering hours to suit your schedule. 

Diversity and Inclusion: We highly value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals in underrepresented communities, such as Black, Asian, disabled, chronically ill, LGBTQ+, and retired individuals. .

APPLICANTS RESIDING INSIDE OF THE UK must already have the eligibility to work in the United Kingdom. The charity cannot sponsor any visas. We are particularly keen to have volunteers located in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland join the team; however, those residing in England are equally welcome. 

APPLICANTS RESIDING OUTSIDE OF THE UK may volunteer if the laws in your resident country allow you to perform the activities mentioned in this role description and to volunteer outside of your resident country.

We believe that every child should have access to a quality education at a safe, inclusive school, with the opportunity to become a truly global citizen… do you too?

It’s an incredibly exciting time at African Adventures Foundation as we develop the vital programmes we deliver at the 34 partner schools we work with in Ghana, Kenya, and Zanzibar.

We have ambitious plans to help drive greater impact at our partner schools, and are looking to strengthen our existing Trustee Board that’s full of energy and experience!

 Do you have experience in charity governance, delivering projects in an African culture and context, or delivering WASH or female empowerment/education/menstrual health programmes?

If so, read on… we’d be keen to hear from you about becoming one of our amazing volunteer trustees! 

Introduction to African Adventures Foundation

African Adventures Foundation is a registered charity set up in 2013 to provide support to 34 schools in developing areas of Ghana, Kenya and Zanzibar.

These schools provide education, health and food security, and social support to young people whose access to these basic services would otherwise be very limited. African Adventures Foundation helps by funding food security programmes, the construction of important school facilities, and hygiene projects that will benefit children’s health and education.

Our mission is to provide more children with a quality education and better opportunities in life.

 All trustees are responsible for governing a charitable company and directing its management and operation. They must also ensure that the trust complies with all legal and statutory requirements.

Trustee Responsibilities:

The role of a Governance & Delivery Trustee is to ensure the Foundation complies with its charity obligations, maximise impact through effective in country project delivery, and bring valuable insight into the specific cultural and operational context of working in Africa.

We are looking for two Trustees to bring specific expertise to the overall Trustee Board alongside the Chair, Fundraising, and Treasurer Trustee positions.

Governance (role specific)

● Understand and represent the needs of the charity’s governing framework on behalf of the Chair and board.

● Recommend relevant changes or documentation, and identify any areas od noncompliance to be addressed within improvement plans.

● Act as spokesperson and figurehead for African Adventures Foundation internally and externally concerning our charity governance.

 Delivery (role specific)

 ● Contribute to governance, approval, and impact assessment processes at board level for the successful delivery of Foundation projects.

● Provide best practice advice, support, and oversight to the projects being delivered on behalf of the board as required.

Context & Culture (role specific)

●    Bring experience, knowledge and good judgement relating to the culture and context of the communities and territories we operate in.

● Bring an understanding of delivering charitable projects in an African educational context to board level.

● Bring an understanding to Trustee Board level, of delivering WASH programmes and Female empowerment, education, and menstrual health projects.

General (all Trustees)

 ● Support and provide advice on AAF’s purpose, vision, goals, and activities while working alongside the trustee Board, founder, and African Adventures personnel.

● Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation, adding to overall good charity governance.

● Support broad decision-making, risk management, and charity planning through a range of platforms and processes.

● Keep abreast of changes in AAF’s operating environment through your external experience.

● Be fully prepared to attend, participate and contribute in Board meetings and Trustee events.

● Act as AAF ambassador applying your skills, experience and knowledge in a range of scenarios including government, fundraising and networking events.

● Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect African Adventures Foundation’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

● Support the Chair with administrative tasks as required.

 What we are looking for:

● Attention to detail.

● A good knowledge of charity governance and willingness to challenge.

● A good understanding of delivering charity/NGO projects.

● A good understanding of operating and/or overseeing delivery in an African culture and context.

● Background in WASH and/or female empowerment, education, and menstrual health projects.

  Essential qualities and attributes of all our trustees

● Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees, and to act in the organisation's best interests.

● Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

● Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions.

● A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

● Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

● Willingness to lead according to African Adventures Foundation’s values.

● Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

 Terms of appointment

 ● Trustees are appointed for a 2-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 6 years.

● This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

 Time commitment (estimated at one day every month)

● Attending quarterly Trustee Board meetings. Currently, these are alternating between online and in-person at HQ near Southampton, UK. 

● Flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad hoc issue and Trustee comms

● Attending occasion workshops and fundraising & networking events as per availability.

We are looking for people to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role and broaden the diversity of thought within our board.

Seeking passionate leaders!

Commitment: 3-5 hours a week at the beginning stages, and then 5 hours a month

Location: Remote (with potential in-person international retreats in the future)

Application Deadline: Rolling Basis

Start Date: ASAP

About the Role:

Bigger Than Us Residency seeks dedicated Board Members to provide strategic guidance, fundraising support, and leadership as we launch our pilot program. As a board member, you will help shape the direction of the residency, oversee governance, and support fundraising efforts.

This is your opportunity to be apart of a brand new charity! With big goals and enthusiasm, we are looking for leaders who want to be a part of something grand, leaders who are looking for their next big volunteer opportunity with potential for paid work in the future!

Responsibilities:

• Attend quarterly board meetings and provide strategic input.
• Support fundraising efforts through networking and outreach.
• Offer mentorship and guidance to the residency team.
• Help develop partnerships and funding opportunities.
• Provide oversight on program development and impact evaluation.

Ideal Candidate:

• Experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, or program development.
• Strong network within the nonprofit, philanthropic, or corporate sector.
• Passionate about supporting Black and Brown-led nonprofits.
• Willing to contribute expertise and connections to help the residency thrive.

Special Skills (We do not expect one person to specialise in all skills; please let us know your niche) :

• Report Writing
• Finance and budgeting 
• Website Management 
• Social Media Management
• Extensive Decision Making 

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field. While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

About the Role

The ePDP Programme Manager is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the Enhanced Professional Development Programme (ePDP) and managing the ePDP Liaison. This position ensures the successful delivery of the ePDP, aligning it with organisational goals and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. The Programme Manager will work closely with senior leadership, Heads of Department (HoDs), and the ePDP Liaison to design, implement, and refine the programme, ensuring it meets the needs of participants and the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Oversight of the ePDP

• Develop and execute the strategic vision for the ePDP, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.

• Collaborate with the Director: HRBP, Legal, IT & ePDP to define programme goals, KPIs, and success metrics.

• Continuously evaluate and refine the programme to address emerging needs and industry trends.

2. Team Leadership & Management

• Manage and mentor the ePDP Liaison, providing guidance and support to ensure effective programme execution.

• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team culture, encouraging innovation and accountability.

3. Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Heads of Department (HoDs) and external partners to ensure programme relevance and impact.

• Act as the primary point of contact for senior stakeholders, providing regular updates on programme progress and outcomes.

4. Programme Design & Implementation

• Oversee the design and delivery of ePDP content, ensuring it meets the developmental needs of participants.

• Coordinate with internal and external facilitators to deliver high-quality training sessions, workshops, and resources.

• Ensure the integration of feedback from participants and stakeholders to enhance programme effectiveness.

5. Monitoring & Evaluation

• Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track participant progress and programme impact.

• Analyse data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

• Prepare comprehensive reports for senior leadership, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

6. Communication & Advocacy

• Promote the ePDP across the organisation, ensuring high visibility and engagement.

• Develop communication strategies to highlight success stories and programme benefits.

Required Skills

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align the ePDP with organisational goals and adapt to changing priorities.

• Leadership & Team Management: Proven experience in leading and mentoring teams to achieve results.

• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional relationship-building skills to engage and influence senior leaders and cross-functional teams.

• Project Management: Strong organisational skills to manage complex programmes, budgets, and timelines.

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate programme vision and outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

• 5+ years of experience in programme management, learning and development, or a related field.

• Experience in designing and implementing professional development programmes.

Job Title: Trusts & Foundations Fundraiser
Reporting to: Operational Director
Hours: 4 to 6 hours per week (we can be flexible and work with your schedule)

Willowbrook Farm Charity

Willowbrook Farm Charity exists to create nurturing educational and cultural spaces in the Oxfordshire countryside that are welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to communities who have been historically underrepresented in rural environments — including people from racialised backgrounds, neurodivergent individuals, and young people with diverse learning needs.

In partnership with Willowbrook Farm (www  willowbrookfarm  co  uk), where we host our activities, we aim to build a nationally recognised centre of excellence that supports personal growth, wellbeing, and connection with nature. Through hands-on learning, community building, and cultural exchange, we empower individuals and groups to explore sustainable living, ethical land stewardship, and the transformative potential of nature-based education.

Our Values

Community
We foster a culture of care, connection, and belonging. We create space for people to come together in joy, learning, and mutual support, building relationships rooted in respect and shared purpose.

Stewardship
We honour the land as a living system and recognise that the wellbeing of people and nature are deeply interconnected. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of ethical and responsible stewards — who care for the earth, each other, and future generations.

Equity & Inclusion
We are dedicated to removing barriers so that people of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities can access and participate fully in experiences of farming, countryside living, and sustainability. We celebrate diversity and work to create welcoming spaces where everyone can thrive.

Connection with Nature
We centre our actions on a deep respect for the natural world. We believe in restoring and nurturing the bond between humans and nature, creating a place where both can flourish in harmony.

Job description

We are thrilled to welcome a Trusts & Foundations Fundraiser to support our Operational Director at a pivotal time for our charity.

After a challenging period of inactivity due to the impacts of Covid, we are excited to embark on a new chapter, as we are ready to restart our activities in 2025 and to develop our projects and create a positive impact in our community.

This is a unique opportunity for those eager to be part of a project evolving from its early stages to the launch of new initiatives. The volunteer will have ample opportunity to grow with the charity.

We are looking for a passionate and articulate Fundraiser with experience in focusing on Trusts & Foundations.

What this position entails

Will be working and managing a team of three fundraising assistant volunteers who will also support our charity with Social Media activities. We are looking to recruit a talented and driven individual to join us and help to develop our Trust and Foundations fundraising programme as we are walking towards restarting our activities this year.

The key focus of the role is:

· Work towards developing a warm portfolio of donors, including large multi-year funders, seeking to extend their support wherever possible through close relationship fundraising.

· Researching, exploring and securing new business opportunities.

Main areas of responsibility:

·  Work closely with the Operational Director, Volunteer Marketing Manager and Volunteer Fundraising and Admin Assistants to develop innovative and persuasive proposals aimed at acquiring new partnerships and supporters.

· Thank funders promptly and ensure that regular progress reports and updates are received by supporters as and when required.

· Develop creative and exciting stewardship plans to enhance the long-term relationship between Willowbrook Farm Charity and our funders.

· Work on the fundraising cycle to identify new prospects securing new income.

· Identify new potential funders and match them to WBFC work.

· Prepare and submit high-quality funding proposals and budgets in accordance with timetables and application criteria.

· Maintain accurate records, analysis and reporting of new business secured.

What do you need to become our Fundraising Coordinator?

Essential:

This role would suit a candidate with a good understanding of the charity sector and

proven success in fundraising from trusts and foundations, along with a superb ability to write with flair and creativity, as well as the verbal presentation skills to match. We are looking for a motivated team player to join our exciting and new team of volunteers. If you are seeking personal development and the opportunity to take the next step in your trust fundraising career, this could be the role for you.

By getting involved you will gain:

· This is an excellent opportunity for professionals eager to utilise their talents to address community needs and contribute to reducing inequality.

· Additionally, this is an excellent starting point for those wanting to progress in their fundraising career and see projects developing from early stages.

Location: Fully Remote. But we welcome those who wish to come and visit the farm at least once to understand more about us.

Commitment:

The estimated time needed is 4 to 6 hours a week, and we welcome those volunteers who can offer more, although it is not a requirement for the role. We can be flexible and work with you to find hours that fit ours and your schedule - all help is much appreciated!

As a volunteer-led charity, we prioritise volunteers who want to become part of our team of volunteers rather than those looking for a temporary assignment. Therefore, we won’t accept applications from volunteers who cannot commit to at least 5-6 months with us.

How to apply:

Please send your CV and cover letter demonstrating your relevant experience and why you would like to get involved with our charity. 

Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application.

Interviews will be scheduled as the applications come in.

If we find some great candidates, we may close the vacancy earlier than the application deadline mentioned. So don't delay - apply today!

What’s involved? 

• Write & design a branch/group newsletter 

• Compile the newsletter with contributions and support from volunteers, members and local partners 

• Organise the distribution of the newsletter to all local members 

• Contribute to the national volunteering newsletter

This role will suit me if I:

• Have good writing skills 

• Am creative and have good attention to detail 

• Have good organisation and communications skills 

• Have good computer skills 

What’s in it for me?

• Enhance your writing, communication and editing skills 

• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team 

• Make a positive impact to the lives of people affected by MND 

• Get access to a range of learning opportunities 
   

How flexible is the role?

The Newsletter editor will work for approximately 2 hours a week and attend on average 12 committee/planning meetings a year, plus adhoc meeting with MND Staff and volunteer group Leaders.

What sort of training/induction will I receive before starting?

You’ll be inducted into the role and informed about the Association. As part of this, you will receive e-learning, face-to-face training and mentoring. The training programme will also include experiential and reflective learning.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Join the Board of Trustees at Leicester Print Workshop

Leicester Print Workshop is seeking up to three committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

About Leicester Print Workshop

Leicester Print Workshop, an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, offers high quality printmaking facilities and development opportunities for artists in the East Midlands and beyond. Its outreach activities in local schools and the community aim to increase participation in printmaking among people of all ages. The organisation is currently seeking trustees to help guide its strategic direction during an important phase of development. 

Key Skills Sought

To complement the skills of our existing trustees, we are seeking individuals with significant experience in philanthropic fundraising, financial management or development of online learning.  Previous experience as a trustee would be helpful, but training will be provided for those taking on their first board appointment.

Why Join Us?

·Play a vital role in shaping the future of a leading arts organisation.

·Collaborate with a passionate team dedicated to promoting the art of printmaking.

·Contribute your expertise to a respected and influential institution.

Commitment

These positions are unremunerated and require a commitment of up to 10 days per year.Appointments are for three years initially, renewable once.

Closing date 9th May 2025