Challenge Events Volunteer Volunteer Roles

About Sense Touchbase Pears 

Sense TouchBase Pears is a welcoming, accessible environment where everyone can feel connected, included and part of the community. We combine health and social care services with arts, sports and wellbeing activities. And support disabled people to access employment, education, volunteering, and training opportunities.

 As an activity volunteer, you will be helping to set up, supervise and interact in some fun activities at the centre from ‘Messy Play’ and ‘Stay and Play’ to craft sessions and supporting with events. This exciting and fast-paced role is a rewarding way to give back to your local community, by helping us to provide affordable and inclusive activities in the area. Please note that at this time we are looking for volunteers aged 18+ due to the busy nature of the role.

This role is based around providing services to members of the local community and you will not necessarily be working with people with additional needs/disabilities.

Key Duties

As an activity volunteer, you will be an ambassador for TouchBase Pears, and for Sense, as well as being a vital part of the Facilities Team. You will help provide a warm welcome to everyone who comes into the building and help us with our fun and engaging activities.  

• Supporting the TouchBase Pears team, working work together to deliver an outstanding experience for every person’s visit. 
• Setting up and clearing away activities, including ‘messy play’ and ‘stay and play’
• Supporting with the supervision of activities 
• Encouraging participation by interacting with the public
• Helping keep our visitors safe when taking part in the activities 
• Adhering to our Health & Safety procedures
• You will be always supported on site during volunteering and a facilities coordinator will be available if you need any support or have any questions. For the weekly role which will be for our Stay and Play, you will eventually be leading the activity without supervision within the room, but a facilities coordinator will always be on site if you need them.

A standard / enhanced Disclosure & Barring check will be required for this volunteer role, which we will support you with.

Skills & Qualities

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Enthusiastic about Sense and passionate about the work we do
• A cheerful and  positive attitude
• Flexible and willing to get involved with a wide variety of tasks 
• Reliable & trustworthy
• Able to work well as part of a team. 
• Good with people and enjoy interacting with the public.
• Able to communicate well with a wide range of people with different skills, abilities, and backgrounds. 
• Are interested in developing your skills to to best support people who are deafblind, have sensory impairments or complex needs effectively.  This could include people who use TouchBase Pears regularly, visitors or co-volunteers.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Respectful of others and their diversity.
• Interested in supporting your local community.

What Sense offers

• A full induction with ongoing support and guidance from the Sense TouchBase Pears Team. 
• The ’feel-good’ factor – knowing that you are making a difference to supporting your local community. 
• We’ll provide you with training on Hearing Impairment Awareness and Visual Impairment Awareness training. We also have additional optional training to further develop your skills relating to supporting people with disabilities. 
• An opportunity to develop new skills and experiences along with adding to your career and/or personal development. 
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and join a passionate team passionate about making a difference in the lives of the people we support. 

Our values

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work as we pursue our vision of a world where no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential.

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate

Sense Virtual Buddying volunteers make a real difference to supporting young people and adults who may be lonely or isolated.

Sense matches volunteers with disabled people to meet for an hour a week on Zoom, over phone, by email, text or letter writing. Our volunteers have spent thousands of hours with their buddies — learning new skills, having fun, and forming fantastic friendships. Sense matches each volunteer with someone who has similar interests, to make sure you have a great time. You and your buddy choose a time that suits you, and you can decide what activities you’d like to do together.

The Role of a Virtual Buddy

Sense matches each volunteer with someone who has similar interests to ensure you’ll have lots of fun together. Once matched with a buddy, you will get to know each other remotely via video calls and phone calls.

You’ll arrange weekly sessions and plan fun things to do together – what this looks like will be inspired by your mutual interests. You could be gaming, doing arts and crafts, playing music, seed planting – there are so many possibilities! We will provide you with weekly themed activities to help to support you in planning your interactions with your buddy.

We’ll also keep in touch with you to ensure you have all the support you need.

The programme is open to all volunteers who are 16 and over. You don't need to have previous experience volunteering or caring for disabled people. We welcome people from all backgrounds and with all interests.

Want to find out more? Every month we host an information session on Zoom for our Virtual Buddying volunteers and those who are thinking of getting involved.

What we can Offer You

Before you start your volunteering role, we’ll make sure that you’ve had the training you need to feel confident. This will be delivered online and via video call.

While you’re volunteering with us as a Virtual Buddy, you’ll get:

• A written account of your volunteering and references if required
• Reimbursement of pre-agreed expenses (up to £25)

Volunteering as a Sense Virtual Buddy is a great opportunity to develop new skills and get to know new people whilst making a real difference to a person’s life. 

Who we are Looking For

We need positive, empathetic volunteers who are passionate about supporting people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. We are looking for volunteers who are great communicators and who are friendly, enthusiastic, positive and ready to have fun!

We’re also always looking for volunteers who have knowledge or experience of British Sign Language (BSL) and/or other communication methods like Makaton.

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

We’d love for you to consider joining us as a Sense Virtual Buddy!

- Helping to support the Trust’s 2030 strategic objectives by developing a bold, confident, young local voice, that raises awareness of the challenges faced by people and wildlife across Warwickshire, Coventry, and Solihull and inspires young people and their communities to take action for nature.  The role will look to    develop impactful and meaningful content, targeted at young people in the area, that support nature’s    recovery and mobilise young people to take action. 
- Working closely with the campaign volunteer role, build engagement and awareness of campaigns through social media, press, events, blogs, contacting local MP's and much more.
- Identifying and sharing (with the Trust and the wider public) stories in the local area which could help to raise awareness of campaigns and the wider movement and purpose.
- Helping others to take action for nature through the promotion and communication of events, campaigns, awareness raising and practical examples. 
- Raising the profile of the work of the Youth Committee and the wider Trust to a younger audience.
- Managing and updating the Committee's social media sites with compelling content with the objective of increasing followers and engagement. 
- Promote the work of the Trust and #TeamWilder in local communities.
- Create content for and distribute the Youth committee newsletter to those who have agreed to receive it, whilst also working to increase this database of contacts.
- Working with a diverse range of people across all age groups and communities. Meeting and engaging with like-minded people at campaign events or Trust/Youth Committee meetings.
- Work closely with the campaign volunteer and the Marketing and Communications team within the Trust, to create and share content with as wide and diverse an audience as possible, across a variety of new channels and mediums. 
- Help to build a database of young people and others in the community who wish to take action for nature.

Level the Playing Field in Development

We work at the intersection between human rights, decolonisation and anti-racism in international development.

Systematic and ongoing neocolonialism, racism within the development sector.

There are a lot discussion around decolonisation and anti-racism in the international development sector. We are here to create practical change.

We work towards addressing and combating the challenges in these spaces by:

Moving beyond discussions to practical solutions Contributing to the reform of current discriminatory policy frameworks and practices in the sector Providing a safe platform for open and candid discussions Collective activism within the global community Changing narratives

We encourage volunteers to come with openness and no judgement. We love creativity and people who are willing to learn and use the skills they have for change.

Admin Volunteer

• Role Description: Updating the resources database and other databases. Supporting with the monitoring and updates on the website. Supporting with social media Note taking during online events. Newsletter development and distribution.
• Volunteer 2-3 hours per week for 1-2 weeks remotely.

We are seeking 2 Community Engagement Mangers to join our team and help raise awareness of BPD and our work. This is an exciting opportunity to join us, and gain experience of working for a small non-profit with big ambitions.

About Us

We are Borderline Support UK CIC, a non-profit organisation which is entirely volunteer-run and is led by our service users who are living with, or affected by, borderline personality disorder (BPD). We provide support and information to anyone in the UK affected by BPD. Every year we support more than 2000 people through our peer support groups and support services. We support people diagnosed with BPD, those who are living with symptoms, and their loved ones.

About the role

You will manage a small team of Community Engagement Officers – our Community Engagement Officers work in their local area, and help us to share information and raise awareness of BPD and our work. They act as ambassadors for our organisation, providing information in their local community.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing a small team of Community Engagement Officers, including providing ongoing training, coaching and support
• Being a point of contact for team members
• Arranging and chairing regular team meetings
• Attending leadership meetings with reports, views and suggestions
• Acting as a positive ambassador for Borderline Support UK CIC

Experience

We welcome applications from people with different and varied skills, for this role we are particularly looking for:

• Experience of managing a small team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
• Good organisation skills
• Positive outlook and can-do attitude
• Some knowledge of mental health and the challenges it presents

What will you gain as a volunteer?

• You’ll join a friendly, passionate team of volunteers and develop an understanding of how a small non-profit operates
• You will have the opportunity to network with other volunteers and play a key role in the mental health community
• You’ll have the opportunity to utilise your existing skills, while developing and learning new ones to take forward into the future
• We will provide references after 3-months of active volunteering

Time Commitment

Time can be as little or as much as you can give, we are flexible to fit around your commitments. All volunteers are required to complete an induction (held virtually over Teams) and be happy to attend regular meetings online with your team.

Practical Considerations

You will receive training from the leadership team, and ongoing direction from a named key contact. We carry out reference checks for all individuals who will be volunteering with us on a regular basis. Volunteers will be required to complete induction and basic training before commencing the role. Volunteers must be over 18, and have the right to live and work in the UK.

How to apply

Please submit your application through Charity Job, we will then contact you to arrange an informal interview over Teams.

Borderline Support UK CIC is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for this volunteer position without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age

The Organisation

Victim Support is an independent charity. We are dedicated to supporting people affected by crime and traumatic incidents in England and Wales, and we put them at the heart of our organisation. Our support and campaigns are informed and shaped by them and their experiences.
We provide specialist services to help people manage after crime and to empower them to ensure their voices are heard individually and collectively at a local and national level.
Our services help people affected by all types of crime and we provide free confidential support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for people affected by crime and traumatic events — regardless of whether they have reported the crime to the police or when it occurred.
Most of our services are delivered locally through skilled staff and volunteers who are deeply rooted in their communities. We adapt our services to meet local need and pride ourselves on being responsive to local demands. These services are closely linked into the National Homicide Service providing a dedicated, comprehensive service for those bereaved by murder and manslaughter and our national Supportline.
We are an independent charity, and our unrivalled national overview gives us the ability to share best practice and innovate in our services as well as champion victims’ rights from a strong evidence base.

More information about Victim Support can be found on our website.

The Role

The role of the Chair is, in addition to sitting as a trustee, to provide leadership and direction to the Charity’s Board, guiding and supporting Trustees in fulfilling their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation. This includes strategic planning; risk/opportunity management; ensuring that the Board operates within its charitable objectives; adhering to the Articles of Association; and ensuring the sound financial health of the charity, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability.

Person specification

• Have a strong commitment to the work of VS.
• Good, independent judgement.
• Support relationships between Board and the Chief Executive and senior leadership team, including mentoring and constructive challenge.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak your mind, but listen with respect to the views of others.
• Our Chair will need to:
• Lead the Board of Directors to ensure that Victim Support is an effective charity that delivers support for victims and brings change through their voice.
• Chair meetings effectively, promoting a transparent and open culture while ensuring that clear decisions are reached and appropriately recorded.
• Meet regularly with the CEO and support, motivate and constructively challenge them including leading their annual performance appraisal.
• Have a sound understanding of the obligations of acting as a Trustee.
• Review board structures, skills and committees.
• Act as ambassador for the cause and the Charity, representing the charity (where appropriate) at key meetings and events.
• Be able to drive awareness of the charity to relevant stakeholders, including the public, relevant government departments and the wider victim support sector.

Please download the Candidate Information Pack for further information.

How to Apply

If you would like to apply for this fantastic opportunity, please provide the following with your application:

• An up to date CV, no longer than two A4 pages with details of two referees (we will not contact them without your prior permission).
• A supporting statement, no longer than two A4 pages which address: a)how your skills, experience and personal qualities meet our requirements; b) demonstrate an understanding of risks and opportunities facing the charity and c) your thoughts on how you would support the charity to implement its five year strategy.

All applications should be sent to Trustees Unlimited - see website.

If you have any difficulty uploading your application or if you would like to have an informal and confidential discussion about the role, alternatively please contact Melissa Baxter:

Closing date for applications: Monday 2nd September 2024
Interviews with Victim Support: Thursday 19th and Friday 20th September with an opportunity to meet key stakeholders during the previous week.
VS may also wish to hold second interviews.

While not essential, we particularly encourage applications from individuals who are currently underrepresented on our Board, including those from LGBTQ+ communities, diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, and people with disabilities.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Job Description

Role Title:  

Volunteer Information Advice and Guidance Assistant (x 2) 

Where: 

Nova New Opportunities, 2 Thorpe Close, W10 5XL with travel to other locations within the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC). 

When:  

April 2023, minimum commitment of 6 months 

2-5 hours weekly

Between 10am-2pm

Monday to Wednesday 

About Nova: 

Based in North Kensington since 1983 and serving its poorest wards & those of surrounding London boroughs, Nova works with individuals from marginalised and disadvantaged communities who are looking to develop their potential and achieve a better future for themselves. Nova brings about real and lasting change in people’s lives by addressing every person as an individual and seeking out ways to best support that person to reach their goals. We endeavour to help every person that comes to us who is motivated and committed to improving his or her life.  

Reaching 2,500+ people each year, we believe in improving people’s lives one person at a time, helping committed and motivated individuals to achieve their potential by: 

• Developing knowledge, education and confidence

• Connecting diverse groups

• Providing opportunities

Our work, operates on 2 levels:

• Grassroots Community Support – including responsive actions (e.g. Grenfell, COVID-19), education, IAG, family programme and volunteering  

• Wider Reaching Dialogue Events and Influencing – focussing on challenging stigma, prejudice and inequality – working with individuals, organisations, networks and decision makers to move through conversation to action

Purpose of role:

Support the Nova Information, Advice and Guidance Programme team respond to the challenges and needs of the community enabling them to thrive.

Role Description:

This role will act to assist Advisors delivering support to people helping them improve skills for employment purposes. With the disruption of Covid-19, many households have been thrown into a continuum of health and financial challenges which have in some cases demotivated and reduced self-esteem. In the short-term our aim is to intensively support 30 RBKC individuals rediscover their potential, increase their confidence and assist them in reaching their potential through training, volunteering and longer-term secure meaningful paid employment.

You will:

• Enjoy listening and helping others in a non-judgemental manner 

• Be able to work in a team and seek guidance when needed

• Have a naturally resourceful outlook

• Have a genuine interest in providing Information, Advice and Guidance

• Support advisors to successfully deliver robust services according to client needs

You need to be:

• DBS Checked

• Confident in the use of IT

• Some experience of supporting people 

• Inquisitive

• Committed

• Competent

• Reliable

• Honest

• Punctual

• Patient

• Fair

• Open minded

• Respectful of client information and circumstance 

• Clients may come from various cultural backgrounds and face different challenges. 

• Comfortable following Nova staff directions and working independently

Further information:

• Induction and appropriate training will be provided.

• IAG qualification or experience of community work would be desirable but not essential. 

Main point of contact/supervisor:

Head of IAG / Head of IAG Development and Strategy

How to apply: 

Please email your updated CV and brief covering letter (no more than one A4 page) outlining why you would like to join the IAG team.

Job Title: Fundraising volunteer

Location: Remote with ability to attend ad-hoc meetings in North Somerset

Organisation: Little Paws Rescue

Job Type: Part-Time, Permanent

Work schedule: Flexible with a minimum commitment of 2 hours a week

About Little Paws Rescue:

At Little Paws Rescue, we are a small, dedicated charity focused on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming cats in need. We operate across North Somerset, Bristol and surrounding areas, providing a sanctuary for cats and a network of support for cat owners. Our mission is driven by compassion and a commitment to improve the welfare of cats in our community.

Job Description:

As a Fundraiser for Little Paws Rescue, you will play a crucial role in securing the financial resources needed to sustain and expand our services. You will work closely with the charity directors to execute fundraising campaigns, engage with donors, and innovate new ways to generate income.

This role is essential for us to sustain our work as a charity, and we’re looking for someone with bags of enthusiasm, a can-do attitude, and of course, a passion for our feline friends!

Responsibilities:

- Develop and implement effective fundraising strategies and campaigns.

- Organise fundraising events and initiatives, from conception to execution.

- Build and maintain relationships with donors, volunteers, and the local community.

- Apply for grants and corporate sponsors.

- Work closely with the marketing officer (to be appointed) to utilise our website and social media in the fundraising strategy.

- Maintain accurate records of all fundraising activities and donor information in compliance with GDPR regulations.

Requirements:

- Ideally some experience in fundraising and/or marketing.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

- Strong organisational skills.

- Creative thinker with a flair for devising and implementing fundraising initiatives.

- An understanding of the challenges facing small non-profit rescues.

- Must have own laptop/IT equipment.

- Proficiency in Excel and social media platforms

What’s in it for you?

- Work from anywhere, anytime.

- A supportive and passionate team committed to animal welfare.

- Satisfaction of contributing directly to the care and welfare of cats in need.

We look forward to hearing how you can contribute to our cause!

Don’t tick all the boxes but think you’d still be a great fit? We want to hear from you! Get in touch with us for an informal chat about the role.

Vacancy - Chair of the Board of Trustees Barbara Bus Fund, Stanmore

The Barbara Bus Fund is recruiting for a new Chairperson.

The Barbara Bus Fund is a registered charity, which was set up in 1968 to help people who cannot get out or use public transport or an ordinary car, because they have a disability that necessitates full-time use of a wheelchair.

Today the BBF operates a fleet of 15 specially converted vehicles from Stanmore, Aylesbury and North Wales. The BBF is operated by a combination of paid and volunteer staff with head office at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore.

The role of Chair is a voluntary position with the requirement to commit to one to two days per month, attend online meetings every 6-8 weeks and the AGM. The Chair will lead the Board of Trustees, chair committee meetings and the AGM.

Previous trustee / charity experience is required and the commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. Previous experience within the health / care / transport sectors will be a distinct advantage however, other relevant experience and the right attributes will also be considered.

The BBF holds an annual meal to thank the volunteers and staff, and there are other periodic meetings and events throughout the year.

Please see the full Application Pack for further information.

OVERALL PURPOSE OF ROLE

MAIN ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Using the voluntary working practices, policies, procedures and values set by Alex TLC, work with paid staff to ensure the charity shop business is run accordingly.

Work to the high standards expected at all Alex TLC shop premises according to the requests of the Shop Manager.

Work as a team member, taking full responsibility for all shop duties undertaken.

Participate in all training and legislative checks required by Alex TLC, statutory and specific to role.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES (INTERNAL & EXTERNAL)

Maintain excellent levels of customer service (remembering customer service extends to colleagues and service providers, as well as customers), going above and beyond where possible.

TECHNICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Expert knowledge of the safe and correct use of all equipment used in the day to day running of the charity shop, for example the till, steamer, pricing equipment. Training is provided.

OTHER FEATURES OF JOB

Hours of work are according to those agreed between yourself and the Shop Manager.

Opportunity for paid employment in our charity shops.

Opportunity to attend the Alex TLC Community Weekend and meet sufferers of leukodystrophy and their families. Volunteers assist in the running of activities during the Weekend and attend the social events included.

LOCATION

South East London Alex TLC charity shop premises.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING

DESIRABLE:

· GCSE, ‘O’ Level or equivalent Mathematics and English Language

· customer service

EXPERIENCE

DESIRABLE:

· Willingness to learn about leukodystrophy and the challenges our beneficiairies face

· charity shop or other retail

WORK BASED COMPETENCIES

DESIRABLE:

· Good customer service skills

· Good telephone skills

· Good writing skill

· Good numerical ability

· Good organisational ability

· Flair for display

· Computer literacy

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

ESSENTIAL:

· Motivated

· Honest

· Committed

· Ability to work in a team

DESIRABLE:

· Enthusiastic

· Articulate

· Calm under pressure

· Methodical

· Resourceful

· Commercial acumen

Track Acadermy is a small but highly respected sport for social change charity in North West London. We are essential in the local community and are currently seeking a proactive and postive Chair of Trustees to lead and bolster our board and give the support to staff, volunteers and coaches to help change young lives in London.

The Chair will hold the Board and Executive Team to account for the Charity’s mission and vision, providing inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring that each trustee fulfils their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. The Chair will also support, and where appropriate, challenge the Chief Executive and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the entire Executive of the charity to achieve agreed objectives. They will act as an ambassador of the charity in partnership with the Chief Executive.

Principal responsibilities:

• Strategic leadership
• Governance
• External Relations
• Efficiency and effectiveness
• Relationship with the Chief Executive and the wider management team

For more detail see attached job description.

We are particularly keen for a Chair with expertise in:

• Strategic leadership
• Charity governance.
• Charity fundraising.
• Service delivery and community work.

Desirables:

It would be great if a candidate has insight into any of the following: 

• Youth sports and athletics.
• Education sector.
• Small charities.

Enhance Barawak’s impact by forging local, national and international strategic partnerships; and nurturing links with organisations that share our values and can help fuel our community’s growth. As one of our Strategic Partnership Leads, you’ll connect with diverse organisations to co-create services and activities that uplift the Afro-Hebrew community.

Welcome to Barawak

Barawak is the first UK-registered charitable organisation dedicated to uplifting and empowering the Afro-Hebrew community in the UK.  We understand the unique challenges faced by our community, and we are here to provide support, resources, and opportunities to help overcome these hurdles.

Our vision is to see our community thrive, free from the burdens of poverty and inequality. We're here to bring this vision to life by providing essential support and resources that uplift and empower every individual and family.

Our Purpose

At Barawak, our mission is clear: to address and alleviate the immediate and long-term challenges faced by our community. We're dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to the essentials – from food and toiletries to vital services. But our goals go beyond just meeting basic needs. We are also here to open doors to new opportunities through education and skill-building, helping our community members to stand tall and secure a better future for themselves and their families.

Our Commitment

At Barawak, we’re driven by four key goals to uplift our Afro-Hebrew community:

1. Alleviating Poverty: We’re here to give more than just immediate help. Our support includes essential items and help with basic needs, aimed at long-term financial stability for our community.
2. Empowering Through Education: Education and skills are keys to opening doors. We offer practical workshops and mentoring in financial smarts, job skills, and more, to spark economic opportunities.
3. Fostering Harmony and Diversity: We celebrate our rich Afro-Hebrew culture and encourage understanding across communities. Our work strengthens community bonds and enriches cultural events.
4. Promoting Health with Sports: Good health is vital. We offer sports and wellness activities that boost both body and mind, helping everyone feel part of something bigger.

In all we do, helping out, sticking together, and staying strong guide us. By the grace of our God, we're not just making today better — we're shaping a brighter, more hopeful community and future for us all.

Our Team

Currently, our team consists of dedicated trustees and advisors who are laying the groundwork for a robust volunteer organisation. We are in the process of expanding our team to include passionate, committed individuals who share our vision and are eager to make a real difference in the community.

Joining Our Cause

As a volunteer at Barawak, you'll be part of a meaningful journey to support and enrich the lives of those in our community. We value every contribution, and we provide a supportive environment where your skills and dedication can truly flourish. Whether you're leading a service or a vertical, assisting with operations or reporting, your role at Barawak is crucial to our collective success and your help will go a long way to helping us reach our strategic goals.

Understanding the Verticals at Barawak

Imagine Barawak as a living, thriving tree. Our verticals are like the main branches—each one strong and important, reaching out in its own direction but all connected to the same trunk, our community's mission. These four powerhouse teams each have a special job:

• The Fundraising and Financial Management vertical covers fundraising and money matters: This team is all about finding resources—like getting donations and grants—to keep our programmes strong and healthy.They will spend their time writing fantastic letters, sponsorship proposals and funding requests on behalf of Barawak as a whole, but also (supporting programme leads) to specific organisations for Barawak service lines.

• The Strategic Partnership Development and Collaboration vertical covers building bridges: They're the connectors, making friends with other groups, businesses, and everyone who can help us grow.

• The Volunteer Engagement vertical covers welcoming our helpers: This bunch is in charge of gathering our most valuable resource—people like you who want to volunteer and make a difference.

• The Marketing Outreach and Advocacy vertical covers spreading the word: They tell our story far and wide, making sure everyone knows what we're up to and how they can join in.

Each vertical team works in two distinct ways: the first way is for Barawak as a whole, and the second way is in support of each Barawak service, feeding our programmes, like roots bringing water and nutrients to the branches. Whether it's Poverty Relief, Education, Employment Support, Community Engagement or Sports and Wellness, these verticals give the support each programme needs to blossom and bear fruit. Working together, they make sure we're all pushing in the same direction—towards a future where our community stands tall and proud.

Introduction to the Strategic Partnership Lead Role

The Strategic Partnership Lead is crucial in forging strong connections and building strategic alliances. This role focuses on nurturing relationships that support Barawak’s overall mission and each unique programme, ensuring the organisation's growth and the successful delivery of its objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Trustee Support:

• Act as the primary liaison between the Board of Trustees and potential partners.

• Advise trustees on partnership opportunities that align with Barawak's strategic direction.

• Prepare briefing materials and strategic recommendations for trustees on collaboration efforts.

• Coordinate with trustees to identify partnership needs and priorities across all service lines.

Barawak-wide Partnership Development:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive partnership strategy for Barawak as a whole.

• Identify and engage with local, regional, and global organizations, businesses, councils, and government entities.

• Cultivate relationships that lead to resource sharing, joint initiatives, and co-created programmes.

• Secure commitments and formalize agreements that provide sustainable support for Barawak’s operations and initiatives.

Programme-Specific Collaboration:

• Tailor partnership strategies to support the unique needs of each programme lead.

• Work closely with the Poverty Relief, Education & Skill Development, Employment Support, Community Engagement & Racial Harmony, and Sports & Wellness leads to identify potential partners that can provide targeted resources and support.

• Facilitate introductions and negotiations between programme leads and potential partners, ensuring a mutual understanding of goals and expectations.

• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of partnerships in supporting programme objectives, providing regular reports to programme leads and trustees.

Strategic Alliance Management:

• Maintain a dynamic network of partners, constantly evaluating and nurturing these relationships.

• Organize regular meetings and networking events to foster a community of collaborators.

• Provide ongoing support and guidance to partners, ensuring their contributions are effectively integrated into Barawak’s programmes.

Reporting and Analysis:

• Track and report on partnership activities, outcomes, and the impact on Barawak’s service delivery.

• Use data and feedback to improve partnership strategies and collaboration efforts.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Proven experience in partnership development, relationship management, or a similar role.

• Strong networking skills with the ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

• Strategic thinking with a keen understanding of non-profit operations and community-based initiatives.

By taking on this role, you will be at the forefront of building a community that supports and enriches the lives of the Afro-Hebrew community through collaborative and strategic partnerships.

Important: This advert is for a voluntary role, which is unpaid and not subject to reimbursement of expenses. Any agreement with the successful candidate is not intended to be a legally binding contract between us and may be cancelled at any time at the discretion of either party. By applying for the role, candidates agree that neither of us intend any employment relationship to be created either now or at any time in the future.

Are you full of ideas about how the serving community can raise vital funds, and how to highlight SSAFA’s impact? Do you enjoy inspiring and motivating people into action? If so, we’d love to hear from you! You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just a desire to support the serving community.

What is a Serving Community Team Fundraising Coordinator?

There is a SSAFA presence throughout the serving community, both in the UK and overseas. In many areas SSAFA have Serving Community Teams that offer financial, practical, and emotional support to serving personnel and their families. Each team is formed of a group of dedicated volunteers who make this possible.

Fundraising Coordinators are essential members of the Serving Community Team. They lead the development and delivery of a local fundraising plan. With the help of Fundraising Volunteers, this could include coordinating events, appeals, local grants or collections.

What difference will you make?

Volunteers are the lifeblood of SSAFA. We have been involving volunteers in supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 130 years. Our beneficiaries come from all backgrounds and age groups and the number of people contacting us for help rises each year.

In order to keep providing support to those who need it most, we need Fundraising Coordinators who can shout about the impact of SSAFA, and inspire people to donate, support our mission and join our community.

What will you be doing?

Although every SSAFA Serving Community Team has different needs, below are the main activities of a Fundraising Coordinator:

• Planning and strategy: Leading the development of a local fundraising plan with support from the wider team, including the Engagement and Events Coordinator.
• Growing a team: Together with the Serving Community Team Volunteering Co-ordinator and SSAFA’s Regional Fundraising Manager, recruiting and supporting a group of fundraising volunteers to help deliver your fundraising ideas.
• Marketing: With help from SSAFA’s Marketing and Communications team creating eye-catching fundraising materials to support the annual fundraising plan.
• Reporting: Tracking and reporting on the success of fundraising activities and providing an annual report to SSAFA Central Office.

What about training and support?

• Online, e-learning, training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep people and their personal information safe.
• Local induction and support
• Access to a range of e-learning courses, resources and local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Ongoing support from SSAFA’s volunteering and operations based regionally and at our central office.
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out their role.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across the serving community and local area.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Empathy regarding the needs and challenges related to serving community.
• Good IT skills e.g. ability to use Outlook and Excel – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Be an effective listener, respectful and have a non-judgemental approach.
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.

Depending on the needs of the team, this role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a few hours each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Please note this is a volunteer role and does not form part of any contract of employment.

Minimum Age: 18

Are references required? Yes. Two-character references from people who know you well (not family members).

Is a criminal record check required? No

We work to make SSAFA as safe as possible for everyone. Part of this involves volunteers attending an informal interview, providing two suitable references, and completing relevant training for your role. 

Are you full of ideas about how the serving community can raise vital funds, and how to highlight SSAFA’s impact? Do you enjoy inspiring and motivating people into action? If so, we’d love to hear from you! You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just a desire to support the serving community.

What is a Serving Community Team Fundraising Coordinator?

There is a SSAFA presence throughout the serving community, both in the UK and overseas. In many areas SSAFA have Serving Community Teams that offer financial, practical, and emotional support to serving personnel and their families. Each team is formed of a group of dedicated volunteers who make this possible.

Fundraising Coordinators are essential members of the Serving Community Team. They lead the development and delivery of a local fundraising plan. With the help of Fundraising Volunteers, this could include coordinating events, appeals, local grants or collections.

What difference will you make?

Volunteers are the lifeblood of SSAFA. We have been involving volunteers in supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 130 years. Our beneficiaries come from all backgrounds and age groups and the number of people contacting us for help rises each year.

In order to keep providing support to those who need it most, we need Fundraising Coordinators who can shout about the impact of SSAFA, and inspire people to donate, support our mission and join our community.

What will you be doing?

Although every SSAFA Serving Community Team has different needs, below are the main activities of a Fundraising Coordinator:

• Planning and strategy: Leading the development of a local fundraising plan with support from the wider team, including the Engagement and Events Coordinator.
• Growing a team: Together with the Serving Community Team Volunteering Co-ordinator and SSAFA’s Regional Fundraising Manager, recruiting and supporting a group of fundraising volunteers to help deliver your fundraising ideas.
• Marketing: With help from SSAFA’s Marketing and Communications team creating eye-catching fundraising materials to support the annual fundraising plan.
• Reporting: Tracking and reporting on the success of fundraising activities and providing an annual report to SSAFA Central Office.

What about training and support?

• Online, e-learning, training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep people and their personal information safe.
• Local induction and support
• Access to a range of e-learning courses, resources and local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Ongoing support from SSAFA’s volunteering and operations based regionally and at our central office.
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out their role.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across the serving community and local area.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Empathy regarding the needs and challenges related to serving community.
• Good IT skills e.g. ability to use Outlook and Excel – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Be an effective listener, respectful and have a non-judgemental approach.
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.

Depending on the needs of the team, this role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a few hours each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Please note this is a volunteer role and does not form part of any contract of employment.

Minimum Age: 18

Are references required? Yes. Two-character references from people who know you well (not family members).

Is a criminal record check required? No

We work to make SSAFA as safe as possible for everyone. Part of this involves volunteers attending an informal interview, providing two suitable references, and completing relevant training for your role.