Communications manager volunteer roles in wealden, east sussex
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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 volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best – whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you!
What can you expect to be doing?
This is a really flexible role – you can choose what you’d like to get involved with:
- Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins
- Online fundraising – setting up online appeals, increasing social media engagement to maximise funds raised
- Marketing – spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press
- Championing our work – getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
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 vital funds through fundraising activities. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated group of volunteers. Whether you’d rather be out and about, or volunteering from your own home, there are so many ways to fundraise.
We’re looking for someone with
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Willingness to be part of a team
- Good organisational skills
- Flexible approach
- Knowledge of local community networks (would be an advantage)
Time expectation
This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments. You’ll be part of a team all working together to raise vital funds while having fun in the process!
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.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Are you looking for a volunteering role that supports the impact of the whole third sector? Infrastructure charity DataKind UK is looking for new members to join our Board of Trustees, including a Chair and Treasurer.
DataKind UK is a small charity with a vision for a strong, thriving third sector that embraces data use to become more impactful. We connect third sector organisations with data professionals to improve their decision making, problem solving, and working practices, by applying data science approaches to sector-wide challenges.
We’re looking for enthusiastic and supportive individuals to fuel our mission and direction by providing oversight of our operations, supporting with major decision-making, and advocating for our work and cause.
Being a trustee is a great way to give your time to a cause you care about, broaden your network, and develop your strategy and governance skills and knowledge. We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, and candidates with disabilities, as we would like to increase the representation of these groups in our community.
How to apply
To apply, please read our candidate pack for more detail and send a 1-2 page cover letter outlining what you would bring to the role based on the skills outlined in the candidate pack, especially highlighting if you are interested in the Chair or Treasurer role, along with your CV, by Monday 2 June.
Initial screening calls will take place during the week commencing Monday 9 June.
Interviews will take place on the 17, 18, and 19 June 2025, with the aim of new members being recruited and onboarded for the following board meeting in August.
Supporting third sector organisations to achieve their missions through increased use of data science.




The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer Position: Champion.
Location: Remote with occasional in-person event participation.
Reports to: Fundraising Manager / Region-specific Volunteer Coordinator.
Position Summary:
As a Champion for ROLDA, you will play a crucial role in driving our online and in-person fundraising efforts. This position is ideal for a passionate individual dedicated to animal welfare who wants to help make a tangible difference towards our rescue efforts. In tandem with the ROLDA team, you will lead initiatives, develop strategies, and inspire supporters to contribute to ROLDA’s mission, amplifying our impact.
Key Responsibilities:
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Fundraising Strategy Development: Collaborate with ROLDA’s leadership to create and implement innovative online and in-person fundraising campaigns.
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Campaign Management: Coordinate and execute engaging, high-impact fundraising campaigns, such as peer-to-peer fundraisers, social media drives, and seasonal events.
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Event Leadership: Organise and attend fundraising events, representing ROLDA in the community. Recruit and manage a team of event volunteers when necessary.
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Donor Engagement: Foster relationships with existing and potential donors, recognise and thank contributors, and cultivate new support channels.
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Social Media Outreach: Collaborate with the social media team to create content that promotes fundraising efforts and highlights donor stories and campaign updates.
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Reporting and Goal Setting: Set and track fundraising goals, prepare reports to measure progress, and share outcomes with the team to enhance future initiatives.
Requirements:
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Previous experience in fundraising, sales, marketing, or community engagement (experience in nonprofit organisations is a plus).
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an ability to connect with a diverse audience.
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Self-motivated and able to work independently, managing multiple projects and deadlines.
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Availability to attend periodic in-person events.
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Passionate about animal welfare and committed to ROLDA’s mission.
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Ability to pass a background check.
Time Commitment:
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Flexible hours, with a minimum commitment of 5 hours per week.
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Availability for occasional in-person events in your area.
Benefits:
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Opportunity to make a direct impact on animal rescue efforts.
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Gain experience in fundraising, project management, and community engagement.
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Collaborate with a dedicated, like-minded team working toward meaningful change.
If you’re ready to lead our fundraising efforts and drive positive change for animals in need, we’d love to hear from you!
Please Note: ROLDA does not support visa applications for volunteers. All in-person volunteers must have the legal right to volunteer in the country where they are located. It is the volunteer's responsibility to ensure they meet the necessary visa and work authorisation requirements before participating in any activities with ROLDA. However, remote volunteer roles do not require a visa, as they can be performed from anywhere.
Our mission is to ensure animals have a good life by advocating for them and by inspiring everyone to treat them with compassion and respect.




Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role Overview
As the Volunteer Executive Assistant, you will play a crucial role in supporting the CEO by managing key administrative and strategic tasks that help drive the organisation’s success. This position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with senior leadership, gaining insight into high-level decision-making and organisational strategy.
You will act as a trusted partner to the CEO, assisting with scheduling, communication, and project coordination to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
This role is perfect for someone who:
Enjoys taking initiative and finding creative solutions to challenges.
Has a keen eye for detail and can anticipate the needs of leadership before they arise.
Is looking for a hands-on learning experience in executive leadership, nonprofit management, or organisational strategy.
Wants to make a meaningful impact by supporting a mission-driven organization.
Responsibilities:
Act as a key point of contact and liaison between the CEO and internal/external stakeholders.
Coordinate, prepare, and follow up on meetings, ensuring the CEO is always equipped with relevant information and materials
Draft and edit correspondence, reports, and presentations to maintain a professional and impactful standard.
Undertake research and data analysis to support decision-making and strategic initiatives.
Assist with project management tasks, ensuring deadlines and objectives are met.
Support the planning and coordination of events, campaigns, and advocacy initiatives.
Keep track of key actions, priorities, and goals, ensuring the CEO's time is optimised for maximum impact.
Adapt to the evolving needs of the CEO and the organization, stepping into new challenges with enthusiasm.
What We’re Looking For
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Proficiency in Microsoft Office / Google Suite
Ability to work independently and handle confidential information
Previous experience in executive support or administration (preferred but not required)
Passion for our mission and a commitment to supporting nonprofit work
What You’ll Gain
By joining us as a Volunteer Executive Assistant, you’ll gain more than just experience—you’ll become part of a meaningful mission while developing key professional skills. Here’s what you can expect:
- Valuable Executive-Level Experience – Gain first hand insight into the operations of a CEO and how strategic decisions are made within an organisation.
- Professional Development – Enhance your skills in executive administration, leadership, time management, and communication—great for career advancement.
- Mentorship & Networking – Work closely with an experienced CEO and connect with professionals across different sectors, expanding your career opportunities.
- Resume Booster – Having experience as an Executive Assistant to a CEO is a strong asset for future job opportunities, particularly in business, nonprofit leadership, and administration.
- Flexibility – Enjoy a volunteer role that fits around your schedule. We understand that life is busy, so we offer flexibility in working hours.
- Personal Fulfillment – Contribute to a cause you’re passionate about, knowing that your work is directly helping to drive real change.
This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with a CEO, gain invaluable executive experience, and contribute to a mission-driven organisation. If you’re highly organised, proactive, and eager to make a real impact, we’d love to hear from you!
Join us in driving positive change—apply today by sending your CV and a brief cover letter
We look forward to welcoming you to the team!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Unify Giving is a revolutionary platform empowering direct donations to individuals experiencing homelessness. Our goals is to increase transparency, accountability, and the overall impact of charitable giving and create a more equitable and compassionate world by connecting donors directly with those in need.
About the Role:
We are seeking a highly motivated and results-oriented Payments/Stripe/Stripe Connect Specialist to join our growing team. In this role, you will play a critical role in ensuring seamless and secure payment processing for our platform. You will be responsible for integrating and managing Stripe Connect within the Unify Giving app, optimising payment flows, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
Responsibilities:
- Design, implement, and maintain seamless payment processing integrations using Stripe Connect.
- Optimise payment flows to minimise friction and maximize transaction success rates.
- Collaborate with engineers and product managers to implement new payment features and functionalities.
- Troubleshoot and resolve payment-related issues.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices in payment processing.
- Bonus: Experience with software development or a strong technical aptitude will be highly valued.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience in payment processing, with a strong understanding of Stripe Connect.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Passion for making a positive social impact.
- Bonus: Experience with software development or a strong technical aptitude.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of those in need.
- Collaborative and supportive team environment.
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation,
Connecting donors directly with individuals expriencing homelessness.



Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
A bit about this role
This role is based in the Tenterden area.
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
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".
WHO WE ARE
We are a Kingston-based social enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion. Encouraging different cultures to unite enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. Partnering with cultural, social and sports organisation's, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.
We conduct research to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. Our findings are supported by educational opportunities designed to broaden perspectives.
Ready for an adventure? Dive into the heart of Quilombo UK by exploring our website and videos! Discover our mission, values and the impactful work we do to make a difference in our community.
Your journey with purpose begins here
Join us in creating positive change!
ROLE DESCRIPTION
Join our dynamic team as a Volunteer HR Recruiter and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our non-profit Organisation. As a key member of our Human Resources team, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end recruitment process, ensuring the acquisition of talented individuals passionate about our mission. Your expertise will contribute to building a dedicated and skilled workforce, enabling us to impact the community positively. This role offers a unique opportunity to utilise your HR recruitment skills for a meaningful cause while gaining valuable experience in the non-profit sector.
Collaborate with hiring managers to identify hiring needs and implement effective sourcing strategies,
Interview and Selection
Build and maintain a strong talent pipeline.
Conduct initial screening interviews to effectively evaluate the candidates’ skill set and cultural fit while providing an engaging experience.
Foster positive relationships with candidates, keeping them informed about the status of their applications.
Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws and regulations.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date candidate records and recruitment metrics.
REQUIRED SKILLS:
Proven experience as an HR Recruiter or in a similar role
Familiarity with job boards and professional social platforms
Strong understanding of recruitment processes and employment laws
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Office based skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Excellent time management and organisational skills
Strong marketing and negotiation skills
Outstanding teamwork skills and ability to create relationships at all levels, showing respect to different types of people.
Professionalism and Confidentiality
WHAT WE OFFER:
Opportunity for professional growth and development in Recruitment and other HR departments depending on your knowledge and learning aptitude.
A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and innovation.
Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday to Friday.
Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.
Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer
Contract length: 16 weeks
Expected hours: No less than 12 per week
Benefits:
- Work from home
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Flexitime
Work Location: Remote
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
A bit about this role
This role is based in the Mid Kent area covering Maidstone, West Malling, Aylesford, Larkfield, Leybourne, Bearsted, Paddock Wood, West Kingsdown, Wrotham, Hollingbourne, Harrietsham, Lenham etc
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
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats


Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Role
Your mission will be leading efforts in safeguarding Onja’s legal interests as it continues to grow.
Responsibilities:
- providing accurate, relevant and timely advice to management and staff on a needs basis in respect of a broad range of issues, with a particular focus on employment law and dispute resolution;
- ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations that apply to the organisation;
- managing and mitigating legal risks by designing and implementing organisational policies and procedures;
- collaborating with third parties, including external counsel and regulators, as needed; and
- designing and delivering legal training to the organisation;
Requirements:
- Twelve month commitment (this ensures sufficient time to make a truly meaningful impact) with potential to renew/extend.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Bachelor of Laws or equivalent
- Legal industry experience preferred
- Strong stakeholder management skills.
- High degree of professional ethics and integrity.
- Strong analytical and research skills.
- Ability to work well within a team and individually.
- Professional legal qualification and/or exposure to employment law/dispute resolution would be a plus
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.
We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Mid Sussex group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.
In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills.
Time Commitment
We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.
You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Mid Sussex area to carry out this role.
The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
SheCanDo
SheCanDo is a women empowerment organization focused on breaking gender biases, promoting gender equality, and fostering workplace inclusion.
Across Nigeria and beyond, women and girls continue to face systemic barriers that limit their access to leadership, innovation, and economic opportunities. Despite making up nearly half of the population, women are underrepresented in decision-making spaces, with only 6.4% of CEOs in Nigeria being female and less than 10% of girls actively encouraged to pursue problem-solving or entrepreneurial ventures. Many young girls grow up without the mentorship, resources, or confidence to break societal stereotypes and position themselves as leaders, innovators, or business owners.
At SheCanDo, we tackle the barriers limiting women and girls by providing them with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to excel in leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Our programs are designed to break stereotypes, foster confidence, and equip women with practical tools to thrive in a competitive world.
Donor & Sponsorship Relations Officer
Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)
Application Summary: Do you enjoy building meaningful relationships and creating win-win partnerships? Join SheCanDo as a Donor & Sponsorship Relations Officer and help us grow our network of donors and corporate sponsors. Your work will directly support our programs that empower young girls to lead and innovate. Role Description: As the Donor & Sponsorship Relations Officer, you will: Develop and maintain strong relationships with corporate donors and sponsors. Create, customize, and send out sponsorship packages and partnership proposals. Follow up with donors and sponsors and keep them engaged through updates. Celebrate and acknowledge donor contributions through reports, shout-outs, and impact stories. Qualifications & Skills: Excellent communication and relationship-building skills. Experience in corporate sponsorships, fundraising, or donor relations is a plus. Enthusiastic and professional demeanor. Weekly Commitment: 4–6 hours per week (flexible schedule, remote role)
Weekly Time Commitment
4-6 hours per week
Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)
6+ months
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Lay Trustee
Remote based
Approximately 4 to 6 board meetings per year in London
Voluntary, with expenses
We’re looking for a leader with vision and a passion for the work of the College. We expect that our Trustees play a very important role at the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM).
Decisions made by the Board of Trustees will help set the direction of our charity, play essential role in decision-making and have a major influence on the success of our work. Becoming a trustee is a fantastic way to make a difference for our organisation and our vital work in local communities.
Trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction for RCEM and for developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with governing documents as well as financial, legal and regulatory guidelines. You can find out more about the roles and responsibilities of Trustees on the gov uk website guide called: The Essential Trustee. You can also see more information on our website.
Applications will be by CV and covering letter, via the application button.
Closing date: Midnight on 12 May 2025.
Interview dates: Expected to be held in first week of July 2025.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.
We are looking to recruit a Co-Group Coordinator for our Brighton and Worthing group. As our local Co-Group Coordinator you’ll jointly take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.
In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills.
Time Commitment
We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.
You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Brighton and Worthing area to carry out this role.
The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.
Shout is the UK’s only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. When people text 'Shout' to 85258, they are connected to a Shout Volunteer for a text conversation. Our volunteers provide a safe space for people to share what's causing them distress, while showing warmth and compassion.
Tasks and Responsibilities
If your application is successful, you’ll be enrolled in a training group. New groups start every two weeks.
Shout Volunteers receive 25 hours of free training in communication, listening, managing and assessing risk, and problem solving. The training is self-paced and done online. You’ll learn how to bring people in distress to a place of calm and practice skills that will be useful to you throughout life.
As we are investing in you throughout your time with us, our hope is that you will complete the training in a timely manner and look at this as a longer term commitment. The experience you gain over time is valuable and our goal is to have volunteers commit to 200 hours on the platform, which can take up to two years to complete, as we ask you to take one 2-4 hour shift per week.
Our Volunteer Training Support team is here to support you, answer any questions and provide feedback during training and throughout your time with Shout. You’ll be joining an incredibly supportive volunteer community and have access to the resources you need to do your role.
As a volunteer, you’ll be supporting people in distress, so it’s important we see the skills required to do that while you are in training. While most trainees complete the training and go on to volunteer, not everyone will pass the training. If this happens, there are other ways you can still support us.
Selection Criteria
A Shout Volunteer is kind and compassionate, a good listener, and has the ability to remain calm when supporting people in crisis. You will also:
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Understand the difference between being friendly and being a friend
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Be aware of your own mental health and wellbeing
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Be open-minded
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Be supportive
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Be reliable
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Be discreet and able to respect confidentiality at all times
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Be accepting and non-judgemental
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Be passionate about contributing some of your time to a cause such as Shout
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Adopt a growth mindset, and be willing to accept feedback
Requirements
- You must live in the United Kingdom or New Zealand while volunteering.
- You must be over 18 years of age.
- You will need a reliable internet connection and a private place to take your shift.
- All of your volunteering must be done using a laptop or desktop computer and Google Chrome.
It’s worth spending time thinking about the nature of the role, and whether it’s right for you. We support all texters, regardless of race, religion, sexual identity or issue. You will need to be comfortable addressing topics frequently discussed with texters (suicide, self-harm, depression, etc.) without compromising your own mental health.
Before you apply, please consider whether either of the following applies to you:
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Have you recently experienced grief, loss or change issue/s? For example; someone close to you has been ill or has died, you’ve lost your job, your relationship has ended.
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Is your current mental health and wellbeing in a place such that the stress and pressure of listening to the challenges of others would bring additional burden to you personally?
Benefits to Volunteers
The role is rewarding and can save lives. Shout Volunteers tell us they gain a sense of pride, satisfaction and purpose from taking conversations. They also tell us that their own wellbeing increases, they learn valuable skills and gain experience they can use at work and in their personal lives.
Volunteering can also be a great addition to your CV. You do not need to have any past experience in mental health to be a Shout Volunteer - we’ll provide you with all the training and support you need to do the role.
Application Process
You will need to create your account and fill in the application using a laptop or desktop computer and in a Google Chrome browser. This is a standard requirement for all of our systems at Shout, from the application through to the platform.
You should leave up to an hour to complete the form. As Shout is a text based service and we do not conduct in person interviews for our volunteer candidates what you write in your application and the strength of your references are how we get to know you.
We appreciate when candidates take the time to write thoughtful, considered answers. We recommend you review your application with an eye toward things like spelling, grammar and punctuation. While some of our texters will occasionally reach out using more informal text speak, our volunteers respond in full sentences and double check their messages for accuracy before hitting send.
Your application will be reviewed once we have received responses from both of your references. We ask for a personal reference and a professional reference. The personal reference can be a friend or colleague but the other must be someone who knows you professionally or has supervised you in some way.
This could be a manager or supervisor from where you work or a teacher or educator from where you study. We recommend you choose references who are able to speak to your ability to fulfil the selection criteria outlined above.
We do not accept references from family members. This includes your partner or their relatives, your children, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents or godparents.
Please allow up to a month for us to review your application and return a decision.
If your application is approved, you can book your place on training. Training groups usually start every two weeks and spaces are available to book a couple of months ahead. While you are in training and before you are allowed on the platform we will carry out a background check.
Shout is the UK’s only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.