Communications Volunteer Roles in Manchester, Greater Manchester

 WHO WE ARE

The Developers Club Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation primarily established  to support the housing and professional development of young adults at risk of long term youth homelessness. Our mission is to acquire and provide quality accommodation that is truly affordable to our charity partners whom have well established programmes that tackle the causes of long-term homelessness amongst those aged 18 – 25. Close to 130,000 young adults were recorded as homeless 2021 – 2022 and we believe that providing a solid foundation to them at such a crucial time in their transition into independence can be life changing for generations to come.

The TDC Foundation is seeking a dedicated and experienced individual to fill the role of Secretary. This key position will support the governance of the foundation and ensure the smooth operation of its activities.

The three key activities of the foundation are:

1. Provision of affordable housing: Partnering and providing quality homes to charities at an affordable rent that gives young adults at risk of long-term homelessness the best start to their transition into independent living.

2. Volunteer Mentorship: Providing talks and 1-2-1 Life Skills, Education and Career Development mentoring.

3. Grant funding: Giving grants to charities working towards the prevention of youth homelessness and or providing mentorship in the areas of Life Skills, Education and Career Development.

In order to facilitate the above, we aim to raise £250,000 annually through several charitable initiatives e.g. charity races and auctions.

About the Role: The Secretary will be responsible for leading the administrative support for the Board of Trustees, organizing meetings, taking minutes, and maintaining essential records. This role also involves ensuring compliance with charity regulations, coordinating communication, and helping to execute the foundation’s mission. Candidates must be able to commit a minimum of three years as a trustee and dedicate up to 20hrs/month max depending on foundation’s current activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Schedule and organise board meetings, including circulating agendas and related materials. 
• Take minutes during board meetings and ensure timely follow-up on action items.
• Ensure compliance with relevant charity and legal requirements.
• Manage correspondence and communications with board members and external partners.
• Maintain and update foundation records, including governance documents.
• Assist with trustee recruitment and onboarding processes.
• Support the foundation’s fundraising and grant application activities when required.
• Attend fortnightly board meetings and contribute actively to discussions during the setup phase. Meetings will transition to quarterly once the setup phase is complete.
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation and promote its mission and values.

Skills and Experience:

• Previous experience in a similar administrative or secretarial role (experience within a charity or nonprofit organization is a plus).
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and handle sensitive information with confidentiality.
• Familiarity with charity governance and compliance requirements is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Who We’re Looking For: We are seeking a professional, preferably with prior experience in the charity sector or similar organizations, to help guide our foundation through its next phase of growth. An individual with a strong understanding of charity administration or governance would be ideal, but we welcome applicants from all backgrounds who meet the requirements.

Why Join Us: At TDC Foundation, you'll be part of a passionate team committed to driving positive change. You will play a crucial role in shaping the foundation's direction and making a tangible impact on our mission.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply for the role, applications should be sent to the email provided.

By joining our Board of Trustees, you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young adults at risk of homelessness. We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to our team.

Please note that The Developers Club Foundation is yet to receive official charity status, and an application will be submitted once suitable additional Trustees have been appointed. Thank you for your support.

About Remap

Remap is a UK charity with 65+ branches across the country. We design and build devices for disabled people. Our engineers give their time for free. Charity funds are used to reimburse material costs and travel expenses.

Role Description

Surrey Remap have a new vacancy for the voluntary position of Fund Raiser.

The successful candidate will identify funding opportunities and plan funding applications. This will include attending courses and taking part in networking events that will enable the local funding landscape to be understood and from that develop an approach strategy. Then following confirmation with the management team draft funding applications.

This role will form a key role within the Surrey Remap management team and include attendance at team meetings and writing reports on fund availability and associated analyses. Because the team members’ locations are spread across a wide area of Surrey, meetings will normally be conducted via Zoom.

Specific experience in fund raising is not essential. An enquiring mind, a friendly investigative approach to business and excellent communications skills are essential. All members of Surrey Remap must have DBS clearance which will be arranged by Remap Central Office. Applicants must be 18+.  The post will require working from home with the usual computer facilities and skills associated with Microsoft Office.

There are no specified working hours. The Fund Raiser may devote as many hours as are available and necessary to achieve objectives.

Applications

We have a simple recruitment process. You can apply online. There will be an interview with the Chair and a chat with a fund raiser specialist at Central Office will follow.

We will then request two references. Once they are received, Central Office will arrange DBS clearance.

We are looking for a passionate individual eager to gain experience in developing educational resources for our flagship project, app, and platform: Power of 10. The ideal candidate will have a background in sustainability and the ability to communicate complex concepts in a clear, accessible manner, along with a creative eye for design. The successful candidate will report to the Power of 10 Manager and be happy to take direction when needed, but equally happy to take their own initiative on certain projects. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain knowledge and experience of the process of resource development and help contribute to a inspirational content that inspires the next generation of climate activists.

Commitment

We are looking for someone to commit 10 hours per week with a flexible remote working schedule. Must attend weekly team meeting to report progress.

Responsibilities

• To support Power of 10 manager in the development of new resources
  • To take guidance on new resources to be developed
  • To come up with individual ideas for resource creation
• To research content for the resources
  • Fact check and ensure good source management
• To input content into templates for resources
  • To use software to input info and design into existing templates and occasionally create new documents from scratch
• Proof reading
• Updating older versions of resources when necessary
• Spreadsheet management plus referencing management

Join our board as a trustee: help us navigate a path to a sustainable future

 Are you passionate about making a difference and equipped with the skills to guide a small charity through challenging times?

CMV Action are seeking proactive and committed trustees to join our board and support us in building a sustainable future.

About CMV Action

CMV Action is the only charity in the UK providing support and information to families affected by congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV). Congenital CMV is the most common viral infection that can affect babies before birth, with potential long-term health impacts such as hearing loss, developmental delays and vision loss. It can also cause miscarriage and stillbirth.

As many as 1 in 200 newborn babies are born with congenital CMV.  The majority of these will not have any symptoms.  However, around 1 in 1,000 born in the UK every year will have permanent disabilities as a result of congenital CMV – around 900 children every year.  As congenital CMV is a relatively unknown condition, it is a common misconception that it is rare.  It is in fact more common than Down’s syndrome, Toxoplasmosis, Spina Bifida or Cystic Fibrosis.

What we’re looking for

 We welcome application from everyone, and are particularly interested to hear from individuals who share our values and can bring the following skills and experience to our board:

• Proactive and strategic thinkers: You are purposeful about the directions you choose and willing to explore new paths to drive our charity towards self-chosen outcomes.
• Experience in finances, fundraising, marketing or strategy planning: Your expertise in charity finance, fundraising strategy, business development, or organisational change will help us build a sustainable future.
• Collaborative leaders: You excel in building strong relationships and working effectively with a diverse range of people and organisations.
• Evidence-based decision-makers: You value research and expert advice, using robust evidence to guide strategic decisions that achieve the best outcomes.
• Committed to accountability and transparency: You act with integrity, ensuring our charity operates openly and ethically.
• Advocates for inclusivity: You are dedicated to ensuring that our work is accessible and equitable for all, embracing the diverse needs of the community we serve.

A bit about this role

We need Fundraising Volunteers to help in and around Mitcham. The postcode areas we are active in are SM1, SM2, SM3, SM4, SM5, SM6, SW2, SW4, SW8, SW9, SW11, SW12, SW13, SW14, SW15, SW16, SW17, SW18, SW19, SW20, SE1, SE5, SE11, SE15, SE16, SE17, SE24, SE25, SE26, CO0, CR4, CR7, KT1, KT2, KT3, KT4, KT17, KT19.

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 Volunteer led branches operate within local communities nationwide and rely on funds donated by generous members of the public to continue to help cats and kittens in need of new homes, supporting owners with neutering, managing trap, neuter and return programmes and educating people about cat welfare. 

Our fundraising volunteers are part of a passionate team that help raise funds to help cats. They help plan and deliver exciting and varied fundraising events, which can be anything from craft fairs, cake sales, sponsored abseils – and anything in between!

What can you expect to be doing?

• Helping organise fundraising events in your local area 
• Championing our cause and making a better life for cats
• Getting involved with new and exciting fundraising ideas 
• Engaging communities, spreading awareness and starting conversations
• Promoting National fundraising initiatives where appropriate

A bit more information about this role and the team

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and help raise funds that will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens in need. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Good communication skills
• Responsible to handle money
• Willingness to be part of a team
• Confidence in speaking to members of the public
• Knowledge of local community networks (would be an advantage)

Time expectation 

Our fundraising volunteers usually spend 2 to 3 hours per week in this role. You can offer your time flexibly, seasonally or remotely and it can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. 

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

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

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

About the opportunity

We are seeking committed vegetarians and vegans to join our volunteer board of trustees.

Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is the only UK charity specifically dedicated to supporting older vegetarians and vegans. If you share our belief that all older people should be enabled to maintain their chosen diet and lifestyle, have access to trusted information on healthy eating and rights, and enjoy good quality food wherever they live, this role may be of interest to you.

Our trustees work with the CEO of VfL and its operational team to ensure good governance and realise the strategic aims and development of this unique charity. VfL has experienced sustained growth and impact since it was formed in 2007 and is highly respected for the breadth and quality of its work across care, advocacy, and catering sectors.

We are a small board who regularly review skills and experience across our membership to ensure we optimise our effectiveness in supporting the charity. In anticipation of members completing their tenure in 2025, including our present chair/vice-chair, we seek new trustees to sustain VfL’s success and progress in the years ahead. While interested in diverse backgrounds, we would be especially keen to hear from those with specific experience in any of the following:

• Working in health, nutrition, social care relating to older people (voluntary or statutory sector).
• Previous or existing role as trustee of a charity or organisation connected to supporting older people.
• Roles relating to capacity building or business development.

The role of trustee is a voluntary one although expenses are paid when incurred in connection with the role. The board meets quarterly, mainly via video conferencing but with at least one meeting a year in Manchester where VfL is based. Full board meetings are held on a Saturday. Some communications occur between meetings (usually by WhatsApp or email) and occasionally additional (short) meetings are required to make decisions timeously – these will always be scheduled by arrangement with members.

To be considered for this role 

You should have the skills and experience outlined above and be committed to the aims of VfL. You should be able to articulate the contribution you believe you can make to furthering these aims.

Our Vision for 2025

Business Development

• 1 in 6 UK care homes will be a member of VfL’s UK List. 1 in 100 will be VfL accredited. The first port-of-call for help and advice for those supporting older veg*ns.

Research and Policy

• A key voice in the 'choice and dignity' debate about care homes and their residents.

Supporter Services

• Responsive to the wishes, hopes and aspirations of all veg*ns in later life across the UK. Their first port-of-call for help and advice. Actively supporting the trends for reduction in meat consumption across all age groups.

To apply 
Please send a covering letter along with a CV of no more than 2 pages FAO Chair, Dr Barbara Sharp. We usually offer an informal chat about the role to applicants in the first instance prior to a formal recruitment process including interview.

Jabalie

Jabalie is a UK charity working internationally with survivors and individuals that are at high risk of gender-based violence.

“Gender-based violence” (GBV) is violence or abuse that is directed against a person or community because of their gender identity or expression, or the violence or abuse affects persons of a particular gender disproportionately. Gender-based violence affects people of all genders, including women and girls, men and boys, transgender individuals, and non-binary people. However, women and girls are disproportionately affected.

Some key statistics include: • One in three women and girls globally will experience some form of violence in their lifetime. • One in four men globally have experienced sexual or physical violence by an intimate partner. • One in four LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced violence or abuse by an intimate partner.

Many victims feel unable to leave their relationship and for those that do, many return to their abuser for a variety of reasons - for example, because they are financially dependent on them, or remain emotionally controlled by them. It takes an average of 7 times for a victim to leave an abusive relationship permanently.

Jabalie is a UK charity that aims to educate and empower survivors and individuals at high-risk of gender-based violence to promote their safety, autonomy and economic independence. We are developing an education and empowerment programme to help build survivors' knowledge, skills and confidence so they can build their lives outside the shelter and become financially independent.

The programme will have 5 areas: (1) Understanding GBV; (2) Skills Development; (3) Legal Rights; (4) Women's Health; and (5) Mental Health. We will also have a training of trainers programme, advocacy against GBV, and are building a community of survivors and GBV activists. I've attached our Strategic Plan 2024-27 with further details.

Our pilot programme will be created in the UK and Kenya using a model that can be upscaled internationally.

Graphic Designer

Role Description

Jabalie is a UK charity that aims to educate and empower survivors and individuals at high-risk of gender-based violence to promote their safety, autonomy and economic independence.

We are a new organisation seeking to build our online presence and brand awareness through our social media channels. We are looking for 1-2 volunteers to join our team to help design visually engaging social media posts. If interested, there are opportunities for the volunteer to get involved in broader marketing strategy and communications.

The length of volunteering is flexible and can be ongoing or for a set period depending on the volunteer's capacity.

We are a small but ambitious and friendly team. We look forward to receiving your applications!

Weekly Time Commitment

2-3 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role

3-5 months remotely

Introduction

The English-Speaking Union (ESU), is a charity and membership organisation that works to give young people the speaking and listening skills and cross-cultural understanding they need to thrive. The ESU’s speech and debate programmes and international exchanges improve young people’s attainment, self-esteem and social skills, helping them to fulfil their potential and to change their lives and communities for the better.

We are looking for volunteers to help support and judge our competitions, please find details below:

• Schools’ Mace - The oldest debating competition for schools in England and Wales (ages 11-18)
• Public Speaking Competition - The largest such competition for schools in England and Wales (ages 13-16)
• Performing Shakespeare Competition - Students express their passion and imagination and compete for a chance to perform at Shakespeare’s Globe (ages 11-14)

You don’t need to be a debater or public speaker yourself – you just need to be enthusiastic about encouraging and inspiring young people to be the best they can be. There are opportunities throughout the year, each requiring around 4-5 hours’ commitment from late afternoon onwards. Full training is given, and it’s great fun, with students often covering thought-provoking topics from obesity and the NHS to Churchill and what defines happiness.

We look forward to welcoming you soon and can't wait to get you started!

Overview of the role

We are an exciting team that aim to design and develop fantastic programme for all members of our organisation. We have several ongoing pieces of work and upcoming projects that enable volunteers to get stuck right in and have real impact. You will have a part in designing programme, see it develop and then watch it reach local Scouting.

We will provide support when inducting you into the role, engage you in an exciting project and then help you on your next steps as a volunteer at the end of the project. This is a great opportunity for those who have never volunteered at Headquarters to give it a go. We would love to see plenty of new faces!

What would I be doing?

This role will be working as part of the Programme Design Team to facilitate work on one of our short-term projects. You will be joining one of our Project Cohorts. After applying, we will review applicants’ skills and experience, before selecting a group to work on a particular project with set goals. 

Our upcoming projects will be aiming to develop our top-quality programme. This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in innovative and impactful programme design. Each project is anticipated to last for 3 months. Once your project is complete, we will support you in your next steps as a volunteer. This could include inviting you to apply to join the Programme Design Team on a long-term basis. 

Trustees

“Become a Trustee and Change Lives”

£3500-5000 per annum + Expenses

Cheshire (1 x Monthly F2F Meetings, Rest Remote)

Our client is a not-for-profit on a mission to promote independence, inclusion, and wellbeing for those with housing and support needs. As they embark on an ambitious five-year plan, they’re searching for three trustees to guide their strategic journey. This is your chance to make a real difference.

Your Role as a Trustee

Imagine being part of a team shaping the future for thousands of individuals. As a trustee, you'll provide governance oversight and strategic counsel, ensuring the mission stays on track. You'll engage in thought-provoking debates, leverage your expertise through key committees, and drive their digital transformation while championing their "We Care" values. 

They are seeking professionals with senior leadership experience in social care, housing, digital transformation, finance, law, or strategic planning. But beyond expertise, they want individuals who embody empowerment, compassion, and respect. Perhaps you or a loved one has lived experience of disability or care needs – bringing invaluable insight to the role.

The Rewards

As a trustee, you'll have a front-row seat to our client’s impactful work, gaining governance experience and developing strategic skills. You'll join a passionate team dedicated to creating an inclusive society. And most importantly, you'll play a pivotal part in empowering lives and driving positive change.

The Requirements

They’re looking for effective communicators and collaborators who can commit to six board meetings annually (with the occasional virtual meet-up). You'll need to undergo standard checks, engage in training, and be willing to act as an ambassador – promoting our client’s cause through your professional and personal networks.

• Senior leadership experience in social care, housing, digital transformation, or related fields

• Expertise in areas like finance, HR, law, or strategic planning

• Passionate about our client’s mission and committed to making a positive social impact

• Effective communicator, collaborator, and critical thinker

• Alignment with our client’s values of empowerment, compassion, and respect

• Lived experience of disability or care needs (personally or through family)

• Availability to attend six annual board meetings and periodic virtual meetings

• Willingness to undergo checks (DBS, etc.) and engage in training

Keen to Use Your Skills for Social Good?

If you're ready to join our client’s mission and leave a lasting legacy, apply now and help create a future where everyone can thrive.

A Little Bit of Sunshine UK (ALBOS UK) is seeking to recruit a Director of Education and Programmes to lead and oversee our education and outreach programmes. 

About A Little Bit of Sunshine

A Little Bit of Sunshine is a charity dedicated to giving young people a voice in shaping mental health services that work for them. By connecting young people and decision-makers, we can co-create mental health systems that are inclusive, accessible, and effective for everyone.

We're a small charity run by volunteers and are looking to expand our team as we continue to grow. We are an inclusive charity and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply for this role.

Overview of the role

As the Director of Programmes and Education, you will lead the development and delivery of key projects, workshops, and outreach programmes. You will manage existing projects while also developing new ones that align with the charity’s strategy, ensuring that all work is driven by the needs and experiences of young people. Additionally, you will help build and maintain relationships with external partners and key stakeholders in the charity, mental health, and youth sectors.

This new role will provide an exciting opportunity to help shape and deliver programmes and educational initiatives that make a real impact on young people’s lives.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and develop the charity’s ongoing programmes and create new initiatives to meet strategic goals.
• Lead the development of an impact reporting, evaluation, and learning framework.
• Ensure that our work reflects developments in mental health, youth work, and social action.
• Build relationships with senior managers across various sectors, including charity, health, and social care.
• Work closely with the Youth Steering Group and wider team to co-create impactful programmes.
• Support the Senior Leadership Team by providing strategic advice on mental health education initiatives.

More responsibilities are listed within the attached role description.

Why Join Us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a charity that is making a difference in the mental health landscape for young people. You will be able to shape the future of our programmes and work alongside a passionate team dedicated to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for youth mental health.

We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.

Selection Process

• This role will close on the 18th November 2024 at 9am.
• Stage 1 selection process: 25th-29th November
• Stage 2 Interviews: 9th-14th December

If you’re interested in this role and would like to have an informal chat, please get in touch with us!

About this opportunity

We are seeking a committed vegetarian or vegan interested in taking up the role of Chair on our Board of Trustees.

Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is the only UK charity specifically dedicated to supporting older vegetarians and vegans. If you share our belief that all older people should be enabled to maintain their chosen diet and lifestyle, have access to trusted information on healthy eating and rights, and enjoy good quality food wherever they live, this role may be of interest to you.

Our trustees work with the CEO of VfL and its operational team to ensure good governance and realise the strategic aims and development of this unique charity. VfL has achieved sustained growth and impact since it was formed in 2007 and is highly respected for the breadth and quality of its work across care, advocacy, and catering sectors.

In anticipation of our current Chair completing her tenure in 2025, we currently seek someone who has the potential to lead our small board and sustain its effectiveness in supporting VfL towards further progress in the years ahead. Ideally, the candidate will have at least 3 years’ experience in Governance and an understanding of the sector within which VfL operates.

The role of Trustee is a voluntary one although expenses are paid when incurred in connection with the role. The board meets quarterly, mainly via video conferencing but with at least one meeting a year in Manchester where VfL is based. Full board meetings are held on a Saturday. Some communications occur between meetings (usually by WhatsApp or email) and occasionally additional (short) meetings are required to make decisions timeously – these will always be scheduled by arrangement with members.

To be considered for this role 

You should have the skills and experience outlined above and be committed to the aims of VfL. You should be able to articulate the contribution you believe you can make to furthering these aims.

Our Vision for 2025

Business Development

• 1 in 6 UK care homes will be a member of VfL’s UK List. 1 in 100 will be VfL accredited. The first port-of-call for help and advice for those supporting older veg*ns.

Research and Policy

• A key voice in the 'choice and dignity' debate about care homes and their residents.

Supporter Services

• Responsive to the wishes, hopes and aspirations of all veg*ns in later life across the UK. Their first port-of-call for help and advice. Actively supporting the trends for reduction in meat consumption across all age groups.

To apply 
Please send a covering letter along with a CV of no more than 2 pages FAO Chair, Dr Barbara Sharp. We usually offer an informal chat about the role to applicants in the first instance prior to a formal recruitment process including interview.

 VOLUNTEER ROLE BRANCH  SECRETARY

 RSPCA Darlington & District Branch  are looking for a Volunteer to become the Branch  Secretary to run the Branch alongside our committee of Trustees.

Are you who we are looking for?

Do you have the  management and organisational expertise which you could use to help our good cause?

Are you an enthusiastic, dedicated person who is passionate about animal welfare?

Overview of the Branch Secretary opportunity

If you have all of the above  then you could become  our principal communications trustee in the role of Branch Secretary, and help us to maintain our branch affairs and support us in improving animal welfare in our area and the work of our local Inspectors as they focus on animals who suffer from abuse, cruelty and neglect. Through your excellent administration and communication skills, you would need to be able to have oversight of our finances, fundraising events and face book page. You would also need to coordinate our work in providing education to small groups in the community when requested,  oversee the distribution of food to local animal food banks, support the  employment of our staff in the cat hub .

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Secretary

Through your excellent administration and communication skills, you would need to be able to have oversight of our finances, fundraising events and face book page. You would also need to coordinate our work in providing education to small groups in the community when requested,  oversee the distribution of food to local animal food banks, support the  employment of our staff in the cat hub.

• You will also  act as the primary contact point for all branch communications with the National Society, the branch committee and the branch membership
• You will arrange branch meetings ensure accurate minutes are taken and distributed in accordance with branch rules
• You will ensure all branch committee decisions are implemented and actions completed
• You will  work with the membership secretary  to arrange the branch AGM including the compilation and distribution of the annual report, nominations and agenda in line with strict timetable laid down in the branch rules.
• You will ensure  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 when necessary.
• Be responsible for the ordering and distribution of  RSPCA stationery, leaflets, posters and other fundraising and promotional material when required.
• You will liaise  with the Branch Partnership Manager (BPM) and group Chief Inspector and notify them of all Branch meetings.
• Be aware of the outcome of Regional Board meetings and support regional activities.
• Actively promote and advertise the Society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch Trustees and Volunteers and welcome new members as and when needed.
•  In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch.
• Manage Branch, Trustees and Volunteer activities.
• You will advise the BPM of all changes to Branch facilities, services and contact details
• In the absence of a Membership Secretary resume responsibility of the Branch Membership list
• Submit recommendations for National Society Awards to the BPM, in accordance with the wishes of the committee
• You will need to complete an RSPCA application form and we will require 2 references

 As a minimum, all trustees would normally be expected to attend  four - six weekly committee meetings which last about 2 hours, however the commitment may vary depending upon need.

As a Branch Secretary you would also be required to become a Branch Trustee and a Member of the RSPCA National Society. 

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee

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

RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Secretary

• We will provide you with training and mentorship from the outgoing Branch Secretary.
• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.
• Support from your peers who will help you get the job done!

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Membership fees are for a Single adult. £24 (Per Year) 18 years old or over.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidelines for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
•  References will also be required.

About the RSPCA

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

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

The RSPCA Darlington & District Branch

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

The main activities of our branch are on our Facebook page RSPCA Darlington & District Branch and on our website.

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 and the work the Branch carries out.

Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and charity legislation can be useful.

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.

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. 

We’ll look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you.

Join Sculpt as a Youth Advisory Board Member!

About us

Sculpt is a UK-based charity providing research, training and work-experience opportunities that empower young people to shape their own futures and those of their communities. As the role of young people in the organisation is crucial, we have an independent Youth Advisory Board (YAB) that evaluates and steers our work. The YAB consists of young people from different backgrounds and experiences who are aware of the problems facing young people today and want to do something positive about them.

About the Youth Advisory Board

Sculpt’s YAB is a group of passionate young people with a keen interest in youth issues who bring their insight and voice to the issues we work on. Their role is to constantly review, monitor, and quality control our work in order to ensure it remains youth–led and effective. 

Members of the YAB support us by:

• Providing a voice, ideas and insight to help ensure our work is relevant to the needs of young people

• Working together to advise and provide insights on social issues from a variety of perspectives

• Applying their life experiences in the development of socially positive causes

• Problem-solving and evaluating existing decision-making to refine ideas and initiatives

• Helping us raise awareness of our work among other young people

What we can offer you:

• Valuable volunteering experience and a chance to work as a collective team to do rewarding work 

• Chance to develop a variety of highly transferable skills, from leadership and decision-making, to conflict management, communication and more

• Opportunity to gain valuable insight into how a charity is run and to engage with a diverse team of professionals, the CEO and board of trustees 

• Learn about a variety of different societally impactful projects

• Opportunity to represent Sculpt at conferences and events  

If you are interested in the problems facing young people, joining Sculpt’s YAB is a great way to gain experience volunteering in an advisory role at an NGO, as well as to influence the work we do. 

Current YAB team: 

We currently have six YAB members. Within this, we have a Chair of the YAB, Vice chair of the YAB, and 4 general members. 

What would I do? 

The YAB meets monthly to discuss Sculpt’s current work and projects, as well as hear about the different opportunities available to Advisory Board members. An agenda is prepared and shared in advance. Meetings are usually held online but we sometimes meet in person. 

As a member of the YAB, you will gain first-hand experience of being part of a youth-led organisation. From providing input into and evaluating our programmes, to designing new campaign and social media ideas, you will have the opportunity to develop your written and communication skills and shape what we do to serve young people. All training offered by Sculpt is open and free to Advisory Board members. Please note that being a YAB member is a volunteer role. 

Travel expenses for in-person meetings are reimbursed, and we make adjustments where needed to remove barriers to participation. This can include providing support/ assistance for online participation or covering the costs of a personal assistant/carer or interpreter/translator if YAB members use one, for example. 

About the open roles

We are currently hiring for YAB General Members. Please read the role description below to determine if it will fit your interests and experiences. However, please do not be discouraged from applying if you have limited prior work experience or knowledge in these areas. We are most interested in finding candidates who are passionate about our work and are eager to learn.

YAB General Member

As a YAB General Member, you will ensure that Sculpt pursues its organisational objectives, provide strategic direction to the organisation’s work, and attend meetings and prepare for them in advance if needed. There will be opportunities to get involved in various areas of our work across fundraising, programme design and evaluation, policies, communications, and social media. 

The Sculpt team will help facilitate the collaboration with the YAB and bring you opportunities to contribute to. At the same time, we are always open to hear your thoughts and advice on how we can continue being effective and responsive. You will be well-supported by us, other YAB members, and the YAB Chair. 

Looking for young people 14-25 years old, with a focus on those 14-18 years old (but young people up to 25 years can apply).

We also want to add that members must be available for an online meeting once a month at either lunchtimes or early evenings. - this is to manage expectations as the younger age people will have less control over their own diaries/timings as it will depend on school, parents, hobbies etc

How to apply

We can’t wait to receive your application and learn more about you! Please make sure to include:

●  A short CV (max. one A4 page)

●  A cover letter explaining your interest in the position – this is more important than having prior experience! (max. one A4 page) 

Upon successful appointment, two character references will be requested. These do not have to be from previous employers. We want to hear from someone who knows you and can speak to your character and abilities.

Sculpt is an inclusive organisation and we embrace diversity because we know that bringing together people with different experiences, perspectives and backgrounds will lead to even greater results for young people. We encourage applications from young people from all backgrounds, identities and lived experiences including those who are LGBTQIA+, Black, Asian or another minority ethnicity, disabled, young carers, refugees, and from low-income backgrounds.

The application deadline is 8th of December 2024.

We look forward to hearing from you!