Community Fundraising Administration Volunteer Volunteer Roles

Our groups are entirely volunteer run and led. They are in the front line of engagement with local people, with an extensive programme of walks, talks, day trips and indoor meetings for the group and members of the public. We're looking for people who are passionate about connecting people with nature and helping in the smooth running of the group. By becoming part of the group, you'll have the chance to use your existing skills (and learn new ones) to build the group and make it an ever more important aspect of local RSPB connections with people. The roles available will depend on the group and can include:

• Publicity and / or social media
• Website editor
• Helping with organising and running events

Being a community group, you'll also have the opportunity to make new friends, have fun, and know you are enthusing people about the joys of nature. All you need is a willingness and ability to help with one or more of the varied activities of our RSPB groups, and able to give a minimum of a few hours each month. We have groups across the UK (see our map to find your nearest group). Feel free to contact your local group direct or go along to an event or two to find out more. If you can't find a group near you and would like to help set one up, please click on "Ask a question".

Notes: This opportunity is not based on a reserve and may not include practical conservation work. It is also not suitable for work experience. However it can usually be customised to your skills, experience and requirements depending on your situation.

We are committed to better reflecting society within our workforce and are keen to encourage more applications from people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities and younger people.

At Rainbows, we support around 750 babies, children and young people with serious and terminal conditions throughout the East Midlands, providing support at our Hospice, in local hospitals and at home. As part of this, our Family Support Team work with families to navigate through the emotions of caring for a child who has a life-limiting condition.

As these families can be based all across the region, Keep in Touch Volunteers play a vital role in connecting families with the Hospice. Volunteers do this by making an outreach telephone call to a family; checking-in with them and signposting them to any wider support which may be needed, as well as any support or services which Rainbows may be able to provide.

Typical tasks the role could involve:

• Making outreach telephone calls to Rainbows families.
• Checking on a family’s welfare and alerting them to available support if needed.
• Relaying any concerns to the Family Support Team.
• Regularly submitting an activity log summarising their calls so we can make sure everyone is receiving the help they need. 

Will it suit me?

This profoundly rewarding volunteer role is ideal if you love engaging with people and are passionate about directly supporting Rainbows families across the East Midlands. This role is ideal for someone with excellent interpersonal and listening skills who can think on their feet. Given the nature of our work, empathy and sensitivity towards the needs of children, young people, and their families are crucial. You'll be using your computer skills to record outcomes of your conversations in our database, so a basic confidence with technology is a must. Understanding the importance of confidentiality, boundaries, and safeguarding is essential within Rainbows. While previous experience in caring for others is beneficial, it is not a requirement.

We are looking for a new Chair to lead a highly motivated group of trustees to support an inspiring charity for people with autism or a learning disability.

At Talkback we seek to enable everyone with autism or a learning disability to lead the fulfilling lives that they want and to actively contribute to their local community.

Our organisation began 24 years ago to give people with a learning disability a voice that was listened to. In response to the needs of the people we support as well as new legislation and the requirements of local and national government, we have diversified, developed and grown to become a highly successful organisation that delivers a wide range of projects across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.

We support people aged 16 and above, helping them to define and achieve their life objectives through services such as education, health & wellbeing and employment support.  We provide a social network as well as a range of opportunities to engage in sport, woodwork, art and drama. 

We employ around 70 staff along with a dedicated group of volunteers. They are led by a highly experienced CEO and a motivated leadership group.  Supporting these professionals is a trustee group with a wide range of experience. Talkback has adapted and survived through challenging times. Government funding has always been limited and continues to be so.  This requires us to identify alternative sources of funding and to be imaginative in our approach to delivery.

We are looking for a Chair who is motivated to make a real difference to the lives of people who often face disadvantage and to offer leadership and help shape the strategic direction of Talkback. So, if you are someone who relishes a challenge, then leading the Board of Trustees at Talkback could be just what you are looking for.  You will work with a group of like-minded, passionate, experienced, and friendly people.

The role would be within Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes, though most Board meetings are remote and would require around 5 hours of your time each month, as well as visits to charity services and events.

Principle roles and responsibilities

As Chair your role is to work closely with the CEO and Leadership team and to ensure that the skills and experience of Board members are used to the best advantage.  The Board exists to:

● Ensure the organisation complies with charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

● Ensure that the organisation pursues its stated charitable objectives as defined in the Constitution, by establishing a clear vision, set of values and strategy.

● Ensure that operational plans and budgets support the vision and strategy

● Ensure that the views of stakeholders including members are regularly sought and considered

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.

● Ensure that major risks to the Charity are identified and managed.

● Ensure that the organisation has appropriate governance structures.

● Support the Chief Executive Officer in the delivery of the charity’s objectives, holding them to account for the management and administration of the charity

As Chair you will be required to:

• Oversee the Board of Trustees ensuring that it comprises of a diverse range of skills, experience and knowledge

• Chair the Trustee Board meetings and AGM, prepare and plan agendas and ensure agreed actions are implemented.

• Ensure that the opinions of all trustees are heard and respected, and oversee votes where required.

• Support the CEO and leadership team by attending charity events and by acting as an ambassador for the organisation.

• Provide line management of the CEO

• Attend key internal and external meetings

• Act as an ambassador for the charity.

Personal Attributes

· Enthusiasm and commitment together with strong interpersonal skills and experience of operating at a strategic level

· The ability to engage with people from a wide range of backgrounds

· The ability to influence others without dominating, ensuring that everyone contributes towards discussions and the decision-    making process

· Willingness to attend functions and build relationships with local partners

Safeguarding Statements

‘Talkback is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults with care and support needs and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.’

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and will require a Disclosure & Barring Service check (DBS) and references. Successful applicants will also have to complete a Fit and Proper Person’s Declaration.

Join the Oxfam community

As a Retail Volunteer you will learn all about what goes into making our fantastic shop thrive. You can keep busy in the stockroom sorting and checking donations or be on the shop floor, serving customers and putting stock out on sale. Whatever suits you! Best of all you’ll be raising vital funds to support people facing poverty around the world.

About this role

We will give you all the training and support you need so you will develop your skills as part of our team. You don’t need to have any experience – we’ve got you covered. You can also get some lunch and travel costs too. Whatever you need, we’re here to help.

You can focus on any part of volunteering that interests you the most. As a Retail Volunteer you’ll develop skills that boost your confidence. Why not try a bit of everything?

• Sorting donations including checking and pricing
• Serving customers on the till
• Create stylish window displays
• Keeping the shop fully stocked
• Helping donors as they come in

Volunteering that works for you

Volunteering can be very flexible to suit you. So even if your availability or skills don’t match this role, get in touch and we will find something right for you. By volunteering for a few hours a week, you will meet new people and have some fun for a good cause.

Everyone has something to offer

At Oxfam we know that everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role which works for you. 

What happens next?

After you apply the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do in the shop. From there you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!

Could you lead the SSAFA presence at your local military base? Ideally you will already have links to the base; you’ll have some experience of managing people and basic I.T skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you!

What is a Service Committee Chair?

There are SSAFA committees on many military bases in the UK and overseas. Each one has a Chairperson to oversee all aspects of the committee. Reporting to the Regional Chair, you will ensure that the committee is running in line with SSAFA’s policies to keep clients and volunteers safe; that all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the committee is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA on site.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 130 years. In recognition of their service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need volunteers who can represent SSAFA on the base and beyond, ensure that everyone knows about SSAFA services and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, networking, coordination, and administration. Many volunteers can carry out this role from home and from their place of work.

The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment. You would need to organise and attend a minimum of four meetings each year. The Chair is an Office Bearer and in addition to voting rights, holds the casting vote.

What would you be doing?

• Providing support to all SSAFA Service Committee volunteers

• Holding regular committee meetings, at least four per year

• Ensuring that all requests for grants are reviewed by the committee in line with the committee’s Terms of Reference

• Working with the Community Volunteer Coordinator to oversee all SSAFA community volunteering, ensuring beneficiaries get support that is effective and timely

• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and recruiting new volunteers as needed

• Building positive relationships with the senior management team on the base and the local SSAFA branch working in the wider community

• Providing reports and information to the local SSAFA branch and to SSAFA’s Central Office

• Overseeing an annual plan and fundraising programme to meet the locally identified needs

• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser

• Working with Central Office staff to ensure all volunteers complete all mandatory tasks in line with the training and vetting requirements of their role.

• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including adhering to our policies such as the volunteering policy and data protection policy

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Give back to your local military community

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity on site

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others

• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA committee and the wider SSAFA community

• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What about training and support?

• An induction to SSAFA specifically designed for Chairs and Chairmen within SSAFA’s Volunteer Network

• Online training modules on safeguarding and GDPR, so you are up to date on how to keep beneficiaries, their families and information safe

• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your training up to date.

• Support from a Regional Operations Support Manager (per region)

• Support from SSAFA’s Welfare team, Volunteer Development team and Volunteer Experience team

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people

• Good written and spoken English

• Ability to engage the senior managers on site representing SSAFA and the needs of clients

• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies represented on base and SSAFA colleagues

• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role

• Volunteer management skills

• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role e.g. prompt reporting of safeguarding concerns in line with SSAFA policies

• Reliability

• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies

• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required

• Ability to provide two referees: former employers or other people that know you well (other than relatives)

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Are you a great communicator who enjoys bringing people together? Local
groups across the UK are run by volunteers and offer friendship and support to
people living with Parkinson's and their families and friends. We need great
organisers who can keep our members and volunteers connected to our local
group’s range of activities.

What you will be doing:
Help organise and promote the groups range of activities
Keep up to date about the news and developments of Parkinson's UK
more widely, sharing these with the group
Encourage and inspire others to engage with activities
Attend regular committee meetings and take and circulate notes
Work with local Parkinson's UK staff to ensure the group runs within
Parkinson's UK governance procedures.

The skills you need:
Strong administrative, organisational, communication and IT skills to help
keep the group running smoothly
Good collaboration skills - support the team to be inclusive, open to a
diversity of views
Positive attitude; making things happen in your local community and
bringing people together to work as a team
Supportive; able to listen to the needs of people with Parkinson's, and
reflect these to the group to shape the support provided
Honest; you'll know when to ask for help, or when tasks might be seen as
less important, and able to share that with Parkinson's UK and your group

Could you coordinate the training for the local SSAFA volunteers in your area? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with a wide range of people and good written and spoken English. Get in touch with us to find out more.

What is a Training Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Each one has a Training Coordinator to make sure that all volunteers get all the training they need for their role and that training events are organised and run for the branch. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

Our SSAFA branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

To offer the best possible service to our clients SSAFA volunteers need training appropriate to their role. It’s important that we keep records of all the training completed by volunteers and provide local training to meet their needs, whilst also being interesting, fun and varied. We’d love to hear from you if think you could help with this important role.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular commitment to the branch, but days and times could vary to suit you.

What would you be doing?

• Coordinating induction and training for new volunteers
• Completing the admin needed for new volunteer to attend local and national training.
• Running interesting and relevant annual branch training days (minimum of one per year)
• Maintaining an accurate list of all volunteers and the dates when training was completed.
• Working with the Regional Trainer, branch volunteers and the Learning and Development team to identify local training needs and arrange for the required courses to be delivered.
• Supporting and encouraging any volunteers facing barriers to completing their training
• Providing reports to the local SSAFA branch and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
• Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to clients as well as providing development opportunities for our volunteers.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses
• Support from the branch secretary, Regional Trainer and the Learning and Development Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people, possibly with some experience of teaching/training and admin
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to undertake training.
• Willingness to use spreadsheets/records of volunteer training.
• Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.

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

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Are you interested in working with us to eliminate homelessness in Worcestershire?

We’re seeking an innovative and passionate individual to join our Board of Trustees.

Who are Maggs?

Maggs’ overarching vision and purpose is to work with partners to eliminate long-term rough sleeping in the county, whilst offering homeless and vulnerable people opportunities to thrive and realise their full potential.

The charity began in 1985 through our Worcester Day Centre in Deansway. We have since acquired a second day centre in Malvern and a countywide outreach team that boasts two additional teams: Harm Reduction and an Intensive Transition Team.

We also have our Clothing Project and Accommodation Project, providing 15 housing opportunities for former rough sleepers.

Our goal is not just to support rough sleepers in their situation, but to help them to make the changes necessary for them to change their lifestyle, by dealing with the issues that hold them back, like lack of confidence, substance abuse, or poor health, so that they can access permanent housing and return to a conventional lifestyle off the streets.

The Role:

Our trustees play a vital role in ensuring that Maggs achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity, and Maggs has a clear strategy that aligns with our goals and vision.

Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable Maggs to grow and thrive, and through this, work with the homeless and vulnerable to raise self-confidence thereby enabling positive life change.

Board members have a collective responsibility, meaning that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Duties:

· Support and provide advice on Maggs’ purpose, vision, goals and activities.

· Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

· Oversee Maggs’ financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Review and approve Maggs’ financial statements.

· Provide support and challenge to Maggs’ CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

· Keep abreast of changes in Maggs’ operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of Maggs’ governance by, but not limited to attending Board meetings and being adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

· Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Maggs’ interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of Maggs’ objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

Please note that as a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Could you help your local SSAFA branch recruit volunteers in your area? You just some basic I.T and admin skills, patience, the ability to get on with a wide range of people and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be the role for you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Recruitment Coordinator?

Recruitment Coordinators help us find local people interested in supporting SSAFA and take them through our recruitment and selection process.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

To offer the best possible service to our clients we need to match the right volunteers to the right role. Could you spare a few hours a week to help recruit new volunteers and welcome them to SSAFA by supporting them through their induction phase? We’d love to hear from you if think you could help with this important role.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The role is about recruitment and so will involve attending local recruitment fairs a few times a year as well as meeting volunteers both face-to-face and virtually. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but the administration part of the ole can be done form home.

What would you be doing?

• Be the first point of contact for all volunteering enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Supporting volunteers through the recruitment and induction process and ensuring volunteers are communicated with throughout.
• Arranging informal interviews for new volunteers conducted in-line with SSAFA policies.
• Conducting ID checks (where relevant) so the volunteer can begin the vetting process
• Supporting volunteers to book onto role specific training and ensuring they complete their mandatory training.
• Working with the VDM to ensure branch vacancies are advertised on the branch website and national websites and support any national recruitment campaigns
• Maintaining good relationships with local Volunteer Centres and other local sources of volunteer promotion and attend local recruitment fairs.
• Evaluating volunteer recruitment activity, experimenting with creative ways to recruit volunteers from a variety of sources to create a diverse network of volunteers.
• Treating all potential volunteers inclusively with respect and sensitivity, regardless of age or background
• Supporting any volunteers facing barriers to find a suitable role.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
• Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to beneficiaries as well as providing volunteering opportunities.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. This training would take approx. 3 hours.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.  
• Access to a range of e-learning courses.
• Support from the Volunteer Development Manager and Trainer (per region)
• Access to the Volunteer Experience Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people, with good listening skills, patience, and a positive attitude  
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal
• Good written and spoken English.
• Respectful and non-judgemental with potential volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to use IT systems for initial and on-going training and during the role, including accessing and responding to emails and using Microsoft offices software.
• Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to undertake training.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely., in line with SSAFA policies.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings and events and t meet volunteers.

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

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?

Join us as a volunteer at Marie Curie charity shop in Byker, where your efforts will directly support our mission to provide vital care for terminally ill individuals and their families.

As a Retail Volunteer, you'll be the heart and soul of our store, bringing joy to our customers and helping us create a vibrant shopping experience.

Why volunteer in one of our shops?

• Gain retail experience.
• Meet new people.
• Support your local community.
• Donate your skills and knowledge.
• Be part of a friendly team.

Volunteers are involved in a wide range of roles and day-to-day activities that support the running of each store for two hours or more a week.

On the store floor you could be involved with providing excellent customer service, processing transactions on the tills, replenishing stock and putting up eye-catching displays to entice customers in.

Behind the scenes, volunteers get involved with store housekeeping and administration, sorting through donations to find those hidden gems and preparing goods for sale by sorting, steaming and pricing items.

Do you have specific retail skills to donate? We're also looking for volunteers with skills and ideas around visual merchandising, identifying stock generation channels and raising awareness of our charity shops. Using your local knowledge, you could help to maximise the shop’s potential.

Your role will include some of, but is not restricted to, the following tasks:

• Sort through donations, find hidden gems
• Prepare items for sale
• Maintain the shop floor and provide excellent customer service to our shoppers
• Operate the till 
• Help out with basic housekeeping

Young Volunteers

Please note: A signed Parent/Guardian Consent Form is required for all volunteers aged 14-17 years.

Skills & Qualities

· Friendly and cheerful manner

· Able to work well as part of a team

· Able to follow instructions

· Knowledge of popular and quality brands would be useful

Could you help your local SSAFA branch recruit volunteers in your area? You just some basic I.T and admin skills, patience, the ability to get on with a wide range of people and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be the role for you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Recruitment Coordinator?

Recruitment Coordinators help us find local people interested in supporting SSAFA and take them through our recruitment and selection process.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

To offer the best possible service to our clients we need to match the right volunteers to the right role. Could you spare a few hours a week to help recruit new volunteers and welcome them to SSAFA by supporting them through their induction phase? We’d love to hear from you if think you could help with this important role.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The role is about recruitment and so will involve attending local recruitment fairs a few times a year as well as meeting volunteers both face-to-face and virtually. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but the administration part of the ole can be done form home.

What would you be doing?

• Be the first point of contact for all volunteering enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Supporting volunteers through the recruitment and induction process and ensuring volunteers are communicated with throughout.
• Arranging informal interviews for new volunteers conducted in-line with SSAFA policies.
• Conducting ID checks (where relevant) so the volunteer can begin the vetting process
• Supporting volunteers to book onto role specific training and ensuring they complete their mandatory training.
• Working with the VDM to ensure branch vacancies are advertised on the branch website and national websites and support any national recruitment campaigns
• Maintaining good relationships with local Volunteer Centres and other local sources of volunteer promotion and attend local recruitment fairs.
• Evaluating volunteer recruitment activity, experimenting with creative ways to recruit volunteers from a variety of sources to create a diverse network of volunteers.
• Treating all potential volunteers inclusively with respect and sensitivity, regardless of age or background
• Supporting any volunteers facing barriers to find a suitable role.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
• Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to beneficiaries as well as providing volunteering opportunities.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. This training would take approx. 3 hours.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.  
• Access to a range of e-learning courses.
• Support from the Volunteer Development Manager and Trainer (per region)
• Access to the Volunteer Experience Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people, with good listening skills, patience, and a positive attitude  
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal
• Good written and spoken English.
• Respectful and non-judgemental with potential volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to use IT systems for initial and on-going training and during the role, including accessing and responding to emails and using Microsoft offices software.
• Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to undertake training.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely., in line with SSAFA policies.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings and events and t meet volunteers.

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

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Could you coordinate the training for the local SSAFA volunteers in your area? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with a wide range of people and good written and spoken English. Get in touch with us to find out more.

What is a Training Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Each one has a Training Coordinator to make sure that all volunteers get all the training they need for their role and that training events are organised and run for the branch. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

Our SSAFA branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

To offer the best possible service to our clients SSAFA volunteers need training appropriate to their role. It’s important that we keep records of all the training completed by volunteers and provide local training to meet their needs, whilst also being interesting, fun and varied. We’d love to hear from you if think you could help with this important role.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular commitment to the branch, but days and times could vary to suit you.

What would you be doing?

• Coordinating induction and training for new volunteers
• Completing the admin needed for new volunteer to attend local and national training.
• Running interesting and relevant annual branch training days (minimum of one per year)
• Maintaining an accurate list of all volunteers and the dates when training was completed.
• Working with the Regional Trainer, branch volunteers and the Learning and Development team to identify local training needs and arrange for the required courses to be delivered.
• Supporting and encouraging any volunteers facing barriers to completing their training
• Providing reports to the local SSAFA branch and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
• Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to clients as well as providing development opportunities for our volunteers.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses
• Support from the branch secretary, Regional Trainer and the Learning and Development Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people, possibly with some experience of teaching/training and admin
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to undertake training.
• Willingness to use spreadsheets/records of volunteer training.
• Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.

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

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

 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.

Could you coordinate the training for the local SSAFA volunteers in your area? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with a wide range of people and good written and spoken English. Get in touch with us to find out more.

What is a Training Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Each one has a Training Coordinator to make sure that all volunteers get all the training they need for their role and that training events are organised and run for the branch. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

Our SSAFA branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

To offer the best possible service to our clients SSAFA volunteers need training appropriate to their role. It’s important that we keep records of all the training completed by volunteers and provide local training to meet their needs, whilst also being interesting, fun and varied. We’d love to hear from you if think you could help with this important role.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular commitment to the branch, but days and times could vary to suit you.

What would you be doing?

• Coordinating induction and training for new volunteers
• Completing the admin needed for new volunteer to attend local and national training.
• Running interesting and relevant annual branch training days (minimum of one per year)
• Maintaining an accurate list of all volunteers and the dates when training was completed.
• Working with the Regional Trainer, branch volunteers and the Learning and Development team to identify local training needs and arrange for the required courses to be delivered.
• Supporting and encouraging any volunteers facing barriers to completing their training
• Providing reports to the local SSAFA branch and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
• Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to clients as well as providing development opportunities for our volunteers.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses
• Support from the branch secretary, Regional Trainer and the Learning and Development Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people, possibly with some experience of teaching/training and admin
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to undertake training.
• Willingness to use spreadsheets/records of volunteer training.
• Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.

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

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No