Animal Volunteer Roles

 Our charity shop in the heart of Bexhill-on-Sea is looking for a friendly volunteer to join our team and help make our shop a huge success. Make new friends, have fun, and help us help more animals!

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager and one other volunteer to help make it a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

 About Our Charity Shop

The shop is part of the RSPCA Sussex East and Hastings Branch and plays an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community and funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work. Our shops sell a mixture of donated items, including clothes, books, bric-a-brac and collectables, and a selection of new items.

We have positions available on the shop floor and in our stock room or you could volunteer to do a mixture of both.

 Volunteer Charity Shop Assistant responsibilities:

• Helping customers in the shop find what they need.
• Accepting donations of items and money from the public.
• Processing sales through the till and card machine. 
• Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell.
• Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging items.
• Merchandising stock on the shop floor. 
• Creating attractive shop window displays.

What we are looking for in a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant: 

• Friendly volunteers who are confident talking to people.
• Retail experience would be ideal but is not necessary as full training will be given.
• We are ideally aiming for someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment on a morning or afternoon shift each week. 
• Good communication and numeracy skills.
• You will need to be aged 16 or over.
• Based in the Bexhill-on-Sea area

What we can offer you as a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant:

• A way to meet new people and make new friends in your local area.
• A place where you will learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more.
• An excellent induction and training programme relevant to your role.
• The opportunity to make a huge difference to the welfare of animals
• Reimbursement for any reasonable travel expenses you may incur whilst volunteering with us.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch! 

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependant on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

A bit about this role

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• Planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• Keeping financial records from fundraising events
• Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

A bit more information about this role and the team

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others
• Excellent organisational skills
• The ability to prioritise and delegate
• An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly
• Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Purpose of your role:
To deliver talks to local groups and clubs, in order to raise vital funds. We have a range of scripted talks, ranging from the history, the reserves and the work of Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, to talks on bats or hedgehogs, which you could choose to deliver. Or you could create your own talk based on something that you are knowledgeable and passionate about, in line with the Trusts aims and objectives. We will support you by helping you to create your own PowerPoint presentation and we will book talks on your behalf.

Tasks you will be involved with:
 .Talking to members of the public about the work of the Trust
 .Support the planning and preparation and delivery of talks
 .Setting up display stands

A bit about this role

If you enjoy driving and would love to use those skills to help our cats, this could be the role for you. Our transport volunteers provide vital assistance to our teams and volunteer groups in the local area by transporting equipment, litter, food– and even cats! They have the essential role of connecting our network of volunteers, sites, vets and supporters.

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection, we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Arranging and transporting equipment, litter and cat food
• Transporting cats to and from vets, foster homes and centres
• Transporting equipment to and from events

A bit more information about this role and the team

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by providing transport assistance to local volunteer groups and teams. You will meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Good organisation and time management skills
• Knowledge of the local community
• A current driver’s licence
• Either access to a vehicle or happy to drive a Cats Protection van (subject to availabilty)
• The ability to carry out some heavy lifting

Time expectation

Our transport volunteers usually spend two to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Are you passionate about animal welfare and eager to make a difference in your community? Join us as a volunteer trustee for the RSPCA Shropshire Branch and play a vital role in shaping the future of our organisation.

About Us

The RSPCA Shropshire Branch is dedicated to improving the lives of animals in our local area. As a branch of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), we work 

tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need in the Shropshire area, which includes supporting the National RSPCA Inspectorate with local cruelty cases. We also educate and raise awareness, hold free microchipping events and offer welfare assistance.

Role Overview

We are seeking enthusiastic individuals with experience in charity or business management to join our team of trustees. 

We are currently looking for individuals with expertise in:

• Finance

• Governance

• Fundraising

Various roles are available, including positions as Treasurer or Secretary.

Responsibilities

• Serve on the governing body of the charity, overseeing the management and governance of the Branch.

• Collaborate with fellow trustees to develop and implement strategic plans for the organisation.

• Contribute to decision-making processes and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and best practices.

• Attend monthly committee meetings, typically lasting around 2 hours, and actively participate in discussions and decision-making.

Benefits

• Make a meaningful impact on the welfare of animals in your community.

• Gain valuable experience in charity governance and leadership.

• Collaborate with like-minded individuals and contribute to a rewarding cause.

• Opportunity for personal and professional development through training and networking.

Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend monthly 2 hour committee meetings, with additional duties as required. The time commitment may vary depending on individual roles and responsibilities. Meetings are generally held online with quarterly meetings held in-person.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about animal welfare and possess the skills and experience we are looking for, we would love to hear from you. 

Join us in making a difference for animals in need. Become a trustee with the RSPCA Shropshire Branch today!

Do you have bags of enthusiasm and are good at organising events? If yes, volunteer for the RSPCA as a Fundraiser and have fun and meet new people whilst raising vital funds for animals in need in your area!

As a Fundraising Volunteer, you will play a vital part, in organising and assisting with our fundraising activities. All the proceeds from these activities go directly towards the essential animal welfare work that we do at branch level. We rescue and rehome around 200 animals each year and provide community help and support with animal welfare in all DA postcodes plus BR8 postcodes.

Volunteer Fundraising Volunteer responsibilities:

• Organise, advertise, and promote fundraising activities to raise vital funds to improve animal welfare.

• Plan and participate in organised events for fundraising over an agreed time period.

• Communicate all planned activities with staff and other volunteers.

• Work alongside other volunteers, staff and members of the public, ensuring excellent customer service at all times.

• Ensure best practice in fundraising and that it is legally compliant.

What we are looking for in a Fundraising Volunteer:

• Someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment 4 hours weekly.

• Lots of enthusiasm to help us raise much needed funds

• Good communication and organisational skills

• Friendly and approachable

• Ability to work on own initiative

• Applications are particularly invited from people residing in DA postcodes or BR8 postcodes

What we can offer you as a volunteer Fundraising Volunteer:

• You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the animals in your area..

• Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.

• Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and training programme.

• Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

•  Join our small but friendly team of staff and volunteers

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch. 

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Our charity shops in the heart of Dartford and Gravesend are looking for friendly volunteers to join our team and help make our shops a huge success. Make new friends, have fun, and help us help more animals!

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager and 1-2 other volunteers to help make it a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare.

About Our Charity Shops:

The shops plays an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community and funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work. We rescue and rehome around 200 animals each year and provide community help and support with animal welfare in all DA postcodes plus BR8 postcodes. Our shops sell a mixture of donated items, including clothes, books, bric-a-brac and collectables, and a selection of new items. We have positions available on the shop floor and in our stock room or you could volunteer to do a mixture of both.

Volunteer Charity Shop Assistant responsibilities:

• Helping customers in the shop find what they need.
• Accepting donations of items and money from the public.
• Processing sales through the till and card machine, including Gift Aid.
• Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell.
• Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging items.
• Merchandising stock on the shop floor.
• Creating attractive shop window displays.

What we are looking for in a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant:

• Friendly volunteers who are confident talking to people.
• Retail experience would be ideal but is not necessary as full training will be given.
• We are ideally aiming for someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment for at least 4 hours weekly.
• Good communication and numeracy skills.
• You will need to be aged 16 or over.

Applications are particularly invited from people residing in DA postcodes or BR8 postcodes

What we can offer you as a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant:

• A way to meet new people and make new friends in your local area.
•  A place where you will learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more.
•  An excellent induction and training programme relevant to your role.
• The opportunity to make a huge difference to the welfare of animals.
• Reimbursement for any reasonable travel expenses you may incur whilst volunteering with us.
• Join our small, but  friendly team of staff and volunteers.
• We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Branch Trustee, Fundraising Strategy (RSPCA Central London)

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees with responsibility for fundraising strategy. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives.  You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.
As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to commit ~20 hrs per month to various activities in support of the branch (e.g., meetings, fundraising events, as well as offline work to develop our fundraising plan and associated administration). However, the commitment may vary depending on whether the trustee takes on additional duties.

The RSPCA Central London Branch
The RSPCA Central London Branch is one of the network of branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area, across central, north east and west London. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which are run by volunteers who have the support of the National
Society of RSPCA.
RSPCA Central London Branch is one of the leading animal welfare organisations in its area of operation. We provide high quality services including adoption and fostering, care andtreatment, inspector support, and advocacy - with a primary focus on cats and small furry animals. We fund our services primarily via income generated from a small network of charity shops, supplemented by bequests, donations, grants, and public fundraising.
Founded in 1824 the RSPCA has been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.
Primary responsibilities for the role of Branch Trustee - Fundraising Strategy
● Develop and own the end-to-end fundraising strategy for the branch
● Proactively plan resourcing to support fundraising activities, e.g., other trustee
participation and engagement, volunteer engagement, etc.
● Oversee the day-to-day fundraising activities outlined in the fundraising strategy
● Help grow and manage an active list of volunteers
● Coordinate and participate in in-person fundraising activities

● Identify new opportunities to fundraise within the community and bring proposals to Branch Trustee meetings for approval (e.g., partnerships with Run for Charity, local festivals, etc.)
● Work closely with our marketing and social media team to promote our animal welfare campaigns, events and fundraising using digital media.
Please note that although there might be some opportunities to visit our animal centres,
this is not a hands-on animal welfare role.
Core Branch Trustee responsibilities:
● Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
● Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
● Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
● In conjunction with fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
● Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
● Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
● Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
● In conjunction with fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch.
What we are looking for in a fundraising volunteer:
We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and
skills in the following areas:
● Experience working with charitable/ not for profit organisations -
● Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
● Business planning, including building a strategic roadmap with track record for execution and delivery;
● Hands-on experience building strong partnerships within the community
Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

You will needto be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.
What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee:

● We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
● Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
● The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
● The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
● A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.
Practical considerations:
● Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected (you can join as a member upon application and be considered on a probationary basis until you complete the minimum 3-month membership term if needed)
● Potential trustees must volunteer with the branch for a minimum of 6 months before being considered for election to the board of trustees.
● Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
● Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to confirm that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
● References will also be required.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

A bit about this role

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. Our Cat Welfare Team Leaders have the important role of coordinating, encouraging and supporting teams of fosterer volunteers and cat care volunteers. They help make sure volunteers with direct cat care roles are happy and confident and provide advice and guidance when needed. This incredible teamwork means we are able to help more cats and kittens in need.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Volunteering alongside colleagues including the Branch Coordinator, Cat Welfare team, Branch Development Manager and Vet team to ensure that CP cat care policies, procedures and standards are applied in branch
• Support fosterers to follow Cats Protection cat welfare policies and procedures
• Acting as the main point of contact within the branch for cat welfare and ensuring that welfare updates are shared and implemented effectively
• Supporting the branch by ensuring that accurate and up to date records of all cats helped are maintained, using specified Cats Protection systems
• Attending relevant Cats Protection volunteer training sessions and encouraging other volunteers to do likewise
• With the other volunteers, recruit, induct and support all branch fosterers and cat care volunteers using Cats Protection processes
• Represent the branch at relevant meetings
• Play an active part in the branch committee, being part of the branch team leading on cat adoption information and updates
• Collaborating with the Cats Protection Cat Adoption Team Leader to ensure the highest standards of cat care are applied in line with Cats Protection policy and procedures

A bit more information about this role and the team

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by leading and supporting other volunteers in direct cat care roles. You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• A willingness to follow Cats Protection policies and procedures
• Basic knowledge and experience of cat welfare
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to engage with people on all levels, to build strong and effective relationships
• A willingness to develop themselves and others and to update knowledge and skills as necessary
• Good administration and organisational skills
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• The ability to handle sensitive issues with objectivity and pragmatism
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

The time expectation for this role will vary depending on the number of volunteers and cats in care. Our Cat Welfare Team Leaders usually spend between 10 to 12 hours per week in this role which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. 

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

This is an exciting opportunity to pass on your human resources and employee relations expertise whilst helping the RSPCA; promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things.

As a HR & Employee Relations expert you would be supporting the branch by helping them maintain and develop staff throughout the organisation. You would play a key role in advising Trustees on the long-term and strategic direction of human resources and contributing towards policy setting.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a  committee meeting every other month lasting 2 hours either in person or virtually (can alternate). However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

•  Advise Trustees on the long-term vision and strategic direction for investment in human resourceSupport the Branch grow, maintain, and develop staff throughout the organisation.
• Contribute to HR policy setting, strategic direction, goal and target setting, and evaluate performance against targets, budgets, plans and charitable objectives.
•  Ensure that HR activities and interventions are linked to the RSPCA Isle of Wight Branches charitable objectives and complement the company culture.
• Advise on and help improve management of HR.
•  Ensure the Board of Trustees properly remunerates staff, reviewing and rewarding performance and development opportunities.
• To work with the Branch Manager to review current HR management arrangements and provide guidance on HR strategy and short and long-term direction. 
• Receive progress reports on HR and any recurring staffing issues.

 What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside Human Resources experience, including a CIPD membership, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

•  We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything  you need to carry out the role.
•  Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
•  A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

This is an exciting opportunity to be a hands-on trustee at branch level, helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things. With your support and expertise, we will achieve so much!

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long terms aims.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a  committee meeting every other month lasting 2 hours either in person or virtually (can alternate). However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee

• Apreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.  
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Support Specialist write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas:

•  Marketing communication including social media, PR, website;
•  Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
•  Local community and supporter relationships;
•  Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or
•  Are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything  you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a background in health and safety, who could devote their time to volunteer with us as one of our trustees at our Tunbridge Wells & Maidstone Branch. This role will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a  committee meeting every other month lasting 2 hours either in person or virtually (can alternate). However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee - Health and Safety

•  To act as the branch committee member with specific responsibility for informing co-trustees, branch  volunteers, and staff on health and safety matters relating to branch activities, and to assist with the implementation of good health and safety practices.
• Liaise with the branch manager regarding the implementation of any new health and safety guidelines from the Society, or the branch’s health and safety provider.
• Work with staff managers to ensure that the required staff training on health and safety is carried out.
• Ensure that health & safety risk assessments including manual handling, COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations), and fire is carried out and reviewed annually.

 What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside health and safety experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee - Health and Safety

•  We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
•  Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
•  A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

TRUSTEE - BRANCH SECRETARY 

RSPCA South West Somerset Branch

Overview of the Branch Secretary opportunity

As a Branch Secretary, you would be in an essential volunteer role as the principal communications trustee managing and maintaining the administrative affairs of our branch. Using your expertise and skills, you will be able to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives.

This role would require a time commitment of 1-4 hours per month.  This would include attending a committee meeting every 4-6 weeks in the evenings, usually lasting up to 2 hours and the annual general meeting.

We are happy to take applications from outside the branch catchment area, as long as you are able to join meetings by electronic means such as Zoom, and are willing to travel to in person meetings a couple of times a year.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA South West Somerset Branch

The RSPCA South West Somerset Branch is one of the branches of the RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of the RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of the RSPCA.

The RSPCA South West Somerset Branch runs charity shops in Taunton, Wellington, Chard and Bridgwater.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Secretary

• To act as the primary contact point for all branch communications with the national Society, the branch committee, and the branch membership.

• Arrange branch meetings, ensure accurate minutes are taken and distributed in accordance with branch rules.

• Ensure all branch committee decisions are implemented and actions completed.

• Arrange the branch AGM including the compilation and distribution of the annual report, nominations, and agenda in line with the strict timetable laid down in the branch rules.

• Arrange the timely dissemination of the contents of all correspondence and literature received by the branch, ensuring availability to all committee members, and reply to all branch correspondence where necessary.

• Order and distribute RSPCA stationery, leaflets, posters and other fundraising and promotional material.

• Liaise with the Branch support specialist (BSS) and group chief inspector and notify them of all branch meetings.

• Advise the BSS of all changes to branch facilities, services, and contact details.

• Maintain the branch membership list.

• Submit recommendations for national Society awards to the BSS, in accordance with the wishes of the committee.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.

• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.

• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).

• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.

• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.

• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.

• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.

• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

Above all, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. 

Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful, but not essential.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert, although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Secretary

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.

• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.

• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.

• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.

• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.

• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.

• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.

• References will also be required.

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee

There is some information on the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees, and we have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our Branch!

This is an exciting opportunity to share your Governance and Compliance expertise whilst helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty. You will be able to influence how we do things, and with your support, we will achieve so much more!

We are looking for someone with a Governance and Compliance background that could spare some time to volunteer with us as one of our trustees at our Tunbridge Wells & Maidstone Branch.

This role will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a  committee meeting every other month lasting 2 hours either in person or virtually (can alternate). However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Governance and Compliance

•  Take the lead on policy review, amendment and implementation and create a timetable to ensure Branch policies are reviewed at appropriate intervals.
•  Set out processes and work with senior staff and trustees to ensure policies are implemented and embedded throughout the Branch.
•  Use your experience and expertise to ensure the Branch is complying with its governing document and other regulatory requirements.
•  Provide technical governance knowledge and leadership and to keep abreast of any developments in the charity sector that are relevant to the Branch operations.
• Assist in setting the long term strategy of the Branch, ensuring the charity meets its objects and purpose.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Above all, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA's charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would have a background in Governance and Compliance and have the ability to put ideas into action.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – Governance and Compliance

•  We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
•  Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
•  A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.