Charity Shop Volunteer Roles

Want to be an invaluable part of a fun, committed and friendly team and support families affected by childhood cancer? We're looking for a Front of House Volunteer to help our team and welcome families visiting our family support centre. We offer fun, relaxed training, a chance to meet new people, great support and we reimburse out-of-pocket expenses.

Volunteer Role: Front of House Volunteer

Hours: Every other Thursday, 4-8pm (on a fortnightly basis)

Location: The Square, Woodhouse Square, Leeds, LS3 1AD

Families who have been affected by children’s cancer (including patients, parents, siblings and grandparents) can come to The Square for a coffee and a chat, as well as book and access a variety of support services, including:

• Wellbeing Services & Activities
• Specialist 1:1 Support
• Family Support Groups and Events

Key Activities:
As a Front of House Volunteer you will support the Family Support team with a variety of tasks including:

• Meeting and greeting families and other visitors
• Making drinks for families and visitors
• Answering the telephone, transferring calls and taking messages
• Making bookings and updating our database
• Setting up rooms for meetings and events

This role is subject to an enhanced criminal record check.

We're looking for volunteers who:

• Have experience of working in a customer service environment
• Are confident, friendly and approachable
• Have good IT skills and experience of using a database
• Are able to move furniture (tables and chairs) and boxes
• Are able to climb multiple flights of stairs
• Are able to manage own emotions when working with families affected by childhood cancer
• Are able to maintain professional boundaries and follow Candlelighters Policies and Procedures

Why Volunteer with Candlelighters?

• Learn new skills and boost your CV
• Ongoing support from our friendly Family Support and HR teams
• Reimbursement for certain expenses, including travel
• Charity Worker Discount Card and access to The Company Shop
• Access to a mental health hotline for when you need a little extra support
• The heart-warming feeling of knowing you’ve made a difference in the lives of children and families affected by childhood cancer

Join us in bringing hope and joy to families facing childhood cancer.

Fundraising Volunteer

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Our vision is a society where every cat has their best possible life because they are protected, cared for and understood by everyone.

We are a movement of people championing the welfare of cats. We lead society in a richer understanding of all cats and care for those that need our help.

Our Purpose is to to help people see the world through cats’ eyes

Our brand new Community Fundraising Hub is here to support you in this role, so there's never been a better time to get involved!

A bit about this role:

As a charity we can help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations from our supporters. Raising funds is a key role in our charity, helping to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need.

As a fundraising volunteer, we will support you every step of the way to ensure your time at Cats Protection is a positive and rewarding one. Whatever time you can give really does make a big difference We have lots of exciting activities to choose from for example attending a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, handling administrative tasks, or contributing to the development of new fundraising ideas. Whatever your skill set, this role could be perfect for you!

What can you expect to be doing?

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:

• face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with fundraising events, attending supermarket collections and monitoring collection boxes.
• online fundraising – assisting with online appeals, increasing social media engagement to maximise funds raised.
• bringing new ideas! We always love to come up with new ideas to raise funds for cats and we’d love to help bring yours to life.
• engaging with your local branch and Fundraising Hub and feeling like an integral part of the team.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.

We're looking for someone with:

• Sympathetic to cats and our values
• Happy to be part of a team of dedicated volunteers and employees.
• Flexible and adaptable to different events/activities
• Open to new ideas and ways of fundraising

Time expectation

This role is very flexible, often certain times of the year are busier than others. You can choose your level of involvement to suit your schedule.

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 well being of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Fundraising Volunteer

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Our vision is a society where every cat has their best possible life because they are protected, cared for and understood by everyone.

We are a movement of people championing the welfare of cats. We lead society in a richer understanding of all cats and care for those that need our help.

Our Purpose is to to help people see the world through cats’ eyes

Our brand new Community Fundraising Hub is here to support you in this role, so there's never been a better time to get involved!

A bit about this role:

As a charity we can help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations from our supporters. Raising funds is a key role in our charity, helping to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need.

As a fundraising volunteer, we will support you every step of the way to ensure your time at Cats Protection is a positive and rewarding one. Whatever time you can give really does make a big difference We have lots of exciting activities to choose from for example attending a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, handling administrative tasks, or contributing to the development of new fundraising ideas. Whatever your skill set, this role could be perfect for you!

What can you expect to be doing?

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:

• face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with fundraising events, attending supermarket collections and monitoring collection boxes.
• online fundraising – assisting with online appeals, increasing social media engagement to maximise funds raised.
• bringing new ideas! We always love to come up with new ideas to raise funds for cats and we’d love to help bring yours to life.
• engaging with your local branch and Fundraising Hub and feeling like an integral part of the team.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.

We're looking for someone with:

• Sympathetic to cats and our values
• Happy to be part of a team of dedicated volunteers and employees.
• Flexible and adaptable to different events/activities
• Open to new ideas and ways of fundraising

Time expectation

This role is very flexible, often certain times of the year are busier than others. You can choose your level of involvement to suit your schedule.

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 well being of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Volunteer Fundraising Events Helper

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.

Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about the role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our Fundraising Event Helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!

What can you expect to be doing

● Help set up and/or man stalls at events

● Help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections

● Help at fundraising events such as Quiz nights, cake sales and dances

● Promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You’ll meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. By being the link between members of the public and Cats Protection, the money you collect will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens

We’re looking for someone with

● A friendly, outgoing outlook

● An affinity with people

● Willingness to be part of a team

● A passion for feline welfare

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.  

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

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 well being of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Fundraising Volunteer

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Our vision is a society where every cat has their best possible life because they are protected, cared for and understood by everyone.

We are a movement of people championing the welfare of cats. We lead society in a richer understanding of all cats and care for those that need our help.

Our Purpose is to to help people see the world through cats’ eyes

Our brand new Community Fundraising Hub is here to support you in this role, so there's never been a better time to get involved!

A bit about this role:

As a charity we can help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations from our supporters. Raising funds is a key role in our charity, helping to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need.

As a fundraising volunteer, we will support you every step of the way to ensure your time at Cats Protection is a positive and rewarding one. Whatever time you can give really does make a big difference We have lots of exciting activities to choose from for example attending a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, handling administrative tasks, or contributing to the development of new fundraising ideas. Whatever your skill set, this role could be perfect for you!

What can you expect to be doing?

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:

• face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with fundraising events, attending supermarket collections and monitoring collection boxes.
• online fundraising – assisting with online appeals, increasing social media engagement to maximise funds raised.
• bringing new ideas! We always love to come up with new ideas to raise funds for cats and we’d love to help bring yours to life.
• engaging with your local branch and Fundraising Hub and feeling like an integral part of the team.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.

We're looking for someone with:

• Sympathetic to cats and our values
• Happy to be part of a team of dedicated volunteers and employees.
• Flexible and adaptable to different events/activities
• Open to new ideas and ways of fundraising

Time expectation

This role is very flexible, often certain times of the year are busier than others. You can choose your level of involvement to suit your schedule.

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 well being of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Volunteer Fundraising Events Helper

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.

Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about the role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our Fundraising Event Helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!

What can you expect to be doing

● Help set up and/or man stalls at events

● Help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections

● Help at fundraising events such as Quiz nights, cake sales and dances

● Promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You’ll meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. By being the link between members of the public and Cats Protection, the money you collect will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens

We’re looking for someone with

● A friendly, outgoing outlook

● An affinity with people

● Willingness to be part of a team

● A passion for feline welfare

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.  

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

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 well being of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Events Coordinator - RSPCA Milton Keynes

Are you proactive, organised, and think outside the box? If yes, why not consider volunteering for our RSPCA branch where you would be instrumental in finding new fundraising avenues whilst having fun organising and attending events!

Our Branch Events Coordinators are vital in helping us raise the funds we need to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome or release thousands of animals each year! We have a cattery, 3 charity shops and many fosterers

This is an excellent volunteering opportunity which would enable you to play a major role in our fundraising activities, really put your flair into the role, and gain a vast amount of personal satisfaction and achievement in return.

Volunteer Events Coordinator responsibilities

• You would aim to identify potential sources of funding which could be explored.
•  Use your knowledge of the area to contact local businesses who might be interested in supporting the RSPCA.
•  You would organise and coordinate events that bring together those also determined to improve the welfare of animals to raise the funds we need to come to the aid of animals who are in need.
•  Attend events to ensure that the money raised, and any donations are collected safely.

What we are looking for in a volunteer Events Coordinator

•  We are looking for someone who is reliable and committed to helping us.
• You would have excellent organisational and communication skills as well as being PC literate.
• Have excellent interpersonal skills which you will utilise when interacting with the general public.
• Previous experience of organising events or managing projects for a minimum of 400 expected attendees.
• Someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Events Coordinator

• 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.

This role would shape the future of events and fundraising, opportunity to create a team of people to support and challenge the norm.

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.

Why am I needed?

Our shops depend on a regular supply of quality donated stock. As some shops receive more donations than others, we need drivers to move stock between our shops to ensure they are all fully stocked.

Our fantastic supporters rely on stock donations being collected from their door when they are unable to bring it to us. Here at Tenovus Cancer Care we receive donated stock in many different ways, and this includes us collecting stock from supporters at their front door and picking up collections from local business partners. 

All of this vital work needs to happen for us to raise more money to help cancer patients and their families.

What will I be doing?

Dependant on your volunteer location, duties may include but may not be limited to:

Predominantly assisting the Retail team in moving stock between shops

Taking this donated stock to shops and to the Warehouse

Delivering donation bags to homes in selected areas and collecting the full bags on an agreed day

Collecting donations at businesses where our ‘Donation Stations’ are located

Offering feedback to the Retail team on how to improve the collections service.

What skills and qualities do I need?

An enthusiasm for the work of Tenovus Cancer Care

A good level of fitness and enjoy being outside

Good communication skills to be able to respond positively with any queries from members of the pubic

Reliability, honesty and like helping as part of a team

This role would suit a proactive and outgoing person who enjoys meeting with others

The ability to drive and have a good size car or van is essential for the driving role if based at one of our shops. You will need to check with your car insurers that you are insured for business use before starting with us (this can usually be arranged at no extra cost) and your driving licence and business insurance will need to be checked before you can start.

How much time do I need to commit?

This can be discussed with the Retail team and hours are very flexible to fit around you – please note on your application how much time you can give.

What support and training will I be given?

A dedicated member of staff will be on hand to offer you advice, support and guidance in your role.

What benefits can I expect?

You’ll be making a real difference to the lives of people with cancer in your local area

The opportunity to develop new and existing skills

Access to all internal vacancies

Access to training

Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in line with organisational policy

The enjoyment of meeting new people and being part of both our Retail Team and Wales’ leading cancer charity.

Expenses can be claimed back

Where will I be based?

You’ll be based at one of our Tenovus Cancer Care shops in either Romsey or Tetbury, with regular travel around your agreed areas. You must have access to your own vehicle.

Inclusivity:

Whether you’re a volunteer, supporter, or staff member, we want everyone to feel welcome at Tenovus Cancer Care. We are committed to greater diversity across our people to make sure we have a breadth of experience, skills and perspective that reflects the communities we serve.

We are working to ensure that Tenovus Cancer Care is a fair and equitable place to volunteer. We strive to ensure everyone is treated fairly, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, race (which includes colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), sexual orientation, religion, or belief, or because someone is married or in a civil partnership.

Are you a creative, hands-on individual ready to make a difference?

Oxfam is looking for a volunteer to join the team within our Festival Shops prop area, bringing sustainability, creativity, and innovation to life. This is your chance to join a vibrant team, transform retail spaces, and support Oxfam’s mission to end global poverty.

What You’ll Do

In this unique voluntary role, you’ll:

· fix, design, and create props for summer festival shops and other pop-up events,

· sustainably source furniture and materials, ensuring funds go toward Oxfam’s global work.

· repair and upcycle furniture that has travelled across the UK, keeping it functional and durable.

· design inspiring retail spaces, including themes that align with Oxfam’s mission and customer trends.

· build your skills in painting, construction, and creative problem-solving while documenting your project for a standout CV and portfolio.

About the Role

The Oxfam Festival Shop, based at our Northern Logistics Centre in Batley, transforms empty marquees into vibrant, themed selling spaces. As a volunteer, you’ll work in a dedicated warehouse area, shaping our props and visual merchandising materials and travel to pop up shops and festivals to set up as necessary.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking someone who:

· Is passionate about sustainability and upcycling.

· Has an interest in retail and visual design.

· Can work with tools and materials (or is excited to learn).

· Thrives on creativity and working to a budget.

You’ll receive full training and support, so if you don’t match all these qualities but still feel excited about the role, please get in touch. We’d love to hear from you!

Volunteering that works for you

Volunteering can be very flexible to suit you. So even if your skills don’t match this role, get in touch and we will find something right for you.

This role can offer you:

· A portfolio of skills which are transferable into many other industries

· Full training

· A chance to work with like-minded individuals who are passionate about sustainability and working to end poverty

· A relaxed and interesting working environment

· The opportunity to give back and do something enjoyable at the same time!

· A reference (available after three months volunteering)

· Paid expenses

· The opportunity to volunteer with Oxfam at one of the UK’s major festivals (available after three months volunteering)

Everyone Has Something to Offer - Oxfam welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds and abilities. We’ll work with you to find a role that fits your skills and interests.

Volunteer recruitment process

1. Application received (through online application form) - please state your interest in the Prop Coordinator position 

2. Application reviewed and submitted for clearance/reference checks

3. We call you for an initial chat to get to know you and discuss what you are looking for (which task interests you the most? do you prefer to work in a group or on your own? do you have any accessible restrictions that we may be able to support? etc)

4. After clearance, you are invited to attend site for an Induction and to start your volunteer journey with us.

 Be part of something extraordinary. Apply today and bring your creativity to Oxfam Festival Shops!

Emmaus Leicestershire ad Rutland operate a unique model to support people who have experienced homelessness, known as companions. We provide them with a home, care, training and mentoring, support for as long as they need it, and work opportunities within our social enterprises, which are based around the recycling and sale of preloved goods donated by members of the public.

We are seeking a suitable candidate to fill a vacancy for the important volunteer trustee position of Honorary Treasurer. Given the growth of the community, the ambitious programme of projects in our Strategic Plan, and the need to consider new directions and initiatives, the Board is looking for a Treasurer with experience in these areas. The successful appointee will be a trustee, Company Director, and a member of the Board, working with other trustees and other stakeholders, to oversee the implementation of our strategy and to address homelessness issues.

Join us as Dog A.I.D.'s new Honorary Secretary and you would be joining the Board at an exciting time as we have launched the charity’s Strategic Plan with a new CEO supported by a small but strong team, which we will be building further this year. As Honorary Secretary you would be using your skills and experience to support the leadership and strategic direction of our charity as we look to achieve ambitious strategic growth targets over the coming years, becoming a larger, more robust charity with increased profile and reach.

Dog A.I.D. empowers physically disabled people by coaching them to train their own pet dog to become an accredited Assistance Dog. By focusing on the existing pet/owner bond, outcomes for our clients include:

 · increased independence and self-confidence

· improved mental well-being

· reduction in social isolation

· reduced reliance on family members and/or carers.

· increased opportunities, with many of our clients being able to return to work or education, supported by their accredited Assistance Dog.

We are looking for an active and well-organised Secretary who can provide support for our governance functions. You will be required to attend and minute online quarterly Board meetings and other ad-hoc meetings and strategic discussions.

Canterbury Food Bank

 Fundraising Lead (Volunteer)

Can you spare a minimum of three hours per week?

Hybrid – the role may require some travel to the Canterbury Food Bank’s warehouse and to attend events.

Unpaid role, reasonable expenses covered

Voluntary

Volunteer role description

Can you help us bring in the funds to underpin Canterbury Food Bank’s success in tackling food poverty? 

We are looking for a Volunteer Fundraising Lead to play a significant role in working with the trustees to shape a fundraising strategy, to help raise awareness of Canterbury Food Bank CIO (CFB), and generate income through events, projects and fundraising activities.

CFB currently raises money through grants and individual donations. With an increasing demand on its services, the trustees would like to broaden the charity’s fundraising activities. To support this, CFB is looking for someone to: raise funds, meet fundraising targets, raise the charity’s profile with key funding partners, and inspire relevant groups to support us.

About Canterbury Food Bank: 

CFB is one of the biggest of its kind in the country.In 2024 it distributed enough emergency parcels to make 117,351 meals, nearly 49,000 of which were for children.

The role: 

• Work with the Board of Trustees to agree a fundraising strategy, including setting annual fundraising targets
• Help develop, lead, and support a voluntary fundraising team
• Identify income-generating opportunities and develop projects
• Build, develop and maintain relationships to secure funding
• Use your people skills to bring the team together.
• Bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to help the team develop new ideas and activities that will raise funds for CFB
• Leading the fundraising team meetings.
• Using your local networks and connections to work with businesses, shops, schools, libraries and groups in your area to host events.
• Inspire more volunteers to join CFB and become fundraising volunteers.
• Responsible to the fundraising sub-committee 

Person specification: 

• Passionate about food insecurity and reducing social isolation
• Experience working in a fundraising role, including grants, trusts and foundations
• Ability and willingness to work to financial targets 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and attention to detail
• Able to work flexibly and under pressure
• Ability to be creative and entrepreneurial in order to find new ways to raise funds

Benefits:

• In these important volunteer roles, you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing you’re supporting people in a financial crisis in the Canterbury District.
• You’ll meet lots of new people and make new friends.
• You can share your existing skills and develop new skills 
• We pay reasonable expenses related to your volunteering with us, including reasonable travel costs.

Trustee Role (Branch Secretary) RSPCA Chiltern Branch

Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? Become our principal communications trustee and help us to maintain our branches affairs and improve animals’ lives.

About our Branch

At RSPCA Chiltern Branch, our primary mission is to rescue and foster animals—predominantly cats—and provide financial support to pet owners in need of veterinary care. We are supported by a dedicated team of six volunteer trustees, an animal coordinator, and a full-time shop manager. Our successful charity shop in Buckingham helps funds our vital work.

We are seeking to recruit the next generation of trustees, including someone to take on the important role of Branch Secretary. We welcome applications from people of all social and cultural backgrounds, aged 18 to 99. Our trustees play a key role in shaping our work and are passionate about improving animal welfare.

While we cover a wide area across Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire, trustees do not need to live locally, as most of our work is conducted remotely through calls and regular Google Meetings. However, if you are nearby, there are opportunities to assist with occasional tasks, such as delivering donations or meeting for a friendly coffee.

If you are passionate about improving animal welfare, we would love to hear from you.

About a Branch Secretary

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.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

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.
• In the absence of the membership secretary, assume responsibility for the maintenance of the branch membership list.
• Submit recommendations for national Society awards to the BSS, in accordance with the wishes of the committee.

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 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.

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.

Why am I needed?
Our shops depend on a regular supply of quality donated stock.  As some shops receive more donations than others, we need drivers to move stock between our shops to ensure they are all fully stocked.

Our fantastic supporters rely on stock donations being collected from their door when they are unable to bring it to us. Here at Tenovus Cancer Care we receive donated stock in many different ways, and this includes us collecting stock from supporters at their front door and picking up collections from local business partners.  

All of this vital work needs to happen for us to raise more money to help cancer patients and their families.

What will I be doing?

Dependant on your volunteer location, duties may include but may not be limited to:

Predominantly assisting the Retail team in moving stock between shops

Taking this donated stock to shops and to the Warehouse

Delivering donation bags to homes in selected areas and collecting the full bags on an agreed day

Collecting donations at businesses where our ‘Donation Stations’ are located

Offering feedback to the Retail team on how to improve the collections service.

What skills and qualities do I need?

An enthusiasm for the work of Tenovus Cancer Care

A good level of fitness and enjoy being outside

Good communication skills to be able to respond positively with any queries from members of the pubic

Reliability, honesty and like helping as part of a team

This role would suit a proactive and outgoing person who enjoys meeting with others

The ability to drive and have a good size car or van is essential for the driving role if based at one of our shops. You will need to check with your car insurers that you are insured for business use before starting with us (this can usually be arranged at no extra cost) and your driving licence and business insurance will need to be checked before you can start.

How much time do I need to commit?

This can be discussed with the Retail team and hours are very flexible to fit around you – please note on your application how much time you can give.

What support and training will I be given?

A dedicated member of staff will be on hand to offer you advice, support and guidance in your role.

What benefits can I expect?

You’ll be making a real difference to the lives of people with cancer in your local area

The opportunity to develop new and existing skills

Access to all internal vacancies

Access to training

Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in line with organisational policy

The enjoyment of meeting new people and being part of both our Retail Team and Wales’ leading cancer charity.

Expenses can be claimed back

Where will I be based?

You’ll be based at one of our Tenovus Cancer Care shops across Wales and England, with regular travel around agreed areas. You must have access to your own vehicle.

How do I apply?

If you are aged over eighteen years old and would like to apply please contact the Shop Manager in your local shop directly or alternatively please contact our Volunteer Development Team on our website.