Community Manager Volunteer Roles

It Gets Better UK envisions a world where all LGBTQ+ youth are free to live equally and know their worthiness and power as individuals. We strive to tell the stories of LGBTQ+ people and to provide positive and reassuring messages to LGBTQ+ youth.

Founded in 2010 in America, the It Gets Better Project has since grown into a global movement, with affiliated charities in 20 different countries. We launched in the UK in October 2018 and have grown significantly since then. Our rapidly expanding organisation now includes a newly appointed staff team consisting of a CEO and a Volunteer Coordinator, alongside a dedicated team of volunteers across the UK.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking dynamic and committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees. We are particularly looking for expertise in the following key areas:

Key areas of expertise and desired backgrounds

• Corporate Partnerships and Strategic Fundraising:
  • Experience in securing and managing corporate partnerships, preferably within the charity sector. Knowledge of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and strategic fundraising initiatives that drive financial support and long-term relationships.
     
• Charity Law:
  • Extensive knowledge of UK charity law, with experience in providing legal advice on governance, compliance, contracts, and safeguarding within a charitable context.
     
• Small Charity Growth and Development:
  • Proven track record in leading or advising small charities through periods of growth. Expertise in strategic planning, resource management, volunteer engagement, and scaling operations sustainably.
     
• Community Engagement and Advocacy:
  • Deep understanding of the LGBTQ+ community, with experience in community organising, advocacy, or public engagement. Ability to build strong relationships with community stakeholders and effectively represent the charity’s mission.

Roles and responsibilities

As a trustee, you will play a critical role in guiding our strategic direction, ensuring good governance, and supporting the delivering of our mission. Your responsibilities will include:

• Strategic Oversight: Collaborate with fellow trustees and staff to develop and implement strategies that align with the charity’s goals and ensure its sustainable growth.
• Advisory Role: Provide expert advice in your area of expertise, whether that be corporate partnerships, legal matters, charity growth, or community engagement.
• Support and Advocacy: Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting our work and engaging with key stakeholders to advance our mission.
• Operational Input: While our board is transitioning from an operational to a more strategic focus, trustees will still be expected to take on functional roles as needed, especially in areas where the charity requires additional support

Qualifications and skills

We are looking for individuals who are passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ youth and can bring the following skills and experience:

• Demonstrated commitment to advancing equality and inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ community.
• Relevant professional experience in one or more of the key areas listed above.
• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to high-level decision-making.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team.
• Willingness to dedicate time and expertise to the charity’s success.

Time commitment

• The Board meets at least four times a year.
• It is expected the trustees spent at least two hours a week on their duties.
• As we continue to transition our board to a more strategic focus, trustees may be asked to support operational tasks on an as-needed basis.

INDEPENDENT CHAIR OF THE BOARD RECRUITMENT PACK

AUGUST 2024

ABOUT BRITISH ICE SKATING

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

British Ice Skating, the National Governing Body for Figure Skating and Speed Skating in the UK, is looking to appoint an inspiring leader to help take Ice Skating to new heights.

OUR MISSION

To establish a proactive organisation through robust governance, financial management, and utilising technology.

HOW WE’LL GET THERE

By establishing investable programmes that enhance lives, promote inclusion, increase participation and deliver exciting performances on the world stage.

ORGANISATIONAL OBJECTIVES

An NGB with an ethos of excellence; 

To establish a proactive organisation through robust governance, financial management, and utilising technology.

A household name;

Create a national awareness of British Ice Skating as the driving force behind ice skating across the UK.

A route to success;

Drive a culture of excellence from grassroots to world stage through a talent and performance pathway for coaches and skaters.

 A united and diverse workforce;

To allow staff, coaches and volunteers the opportunity to flourish based on shared values and a developmental approach.

Create opportunities for all;

Be at the heart of making ice skating accessible across the UK by creating and leading engaging programmes that break down barriers

Grow through partnerships;

Unlock future investment and support through increased stakeholder engagement.

HEADLINE NUMBERS

2.1m Annual Operating Budget.

24 Staff Members.

5000 Members.

ROLE PURPOSE

The Chair will lead and hold the Board, CEO and Executive Team to account for the Company’s mission and vision, providing inclusive leadership to the Association and Board through a period of significant change and ensuring that each Board member fulfils their duties and responsibilities for the effective and robust governance of the Company and BIS.

The Chair will also support, and, where appropriate, challenge the Chief Executive and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the entire Executive of BIS to achieve agreed objectives. They will act as an ambassador and the public face of BIS in partnership with the Chief Executive.

Term of Office: Four years.

Remuneration: The Chair role is voluntary and unpaid, though expenses will be refunded in line with the BIS Expenses Policy.

Time Commitment: Minimum of 20-30 days per annum.

KEY RESULTS AREAS

Chair meetings of the Board effectively and efficiently, bringing impartiality and objectivity to the decision-making process and ensuring a focus on strategy, performance against the strategy, added-value and accountability.

Ensure that the Board meets its duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of BIS, including a clear delegation of matters where appropriate.

Provide leadership to BIS and its Board ensuring that the Board sets the overall strategic direction of BIS.

Appraise the performance of the Board and its members on an annual basis and act on the outcomes.

Ensure that Board members are fully engaged and that decisions are taken in the best, long-term interests of BIS and that the Board takes collective ownership.

RESPONSIBILITIES

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP & GOVERNANCE

Develop and deliver BIS’s strategic aims and objectives in accordance with its constitution, in partnership with the CEO.

Ensure effective communication to BIS’s members and stakeholders.

Ensure that the Board is regularly refreshed and incorporates the right balance of skills, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead BIS effectively.

Ensure that the Board is able to regularly review major risks and associated opportunities, and satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities, and manage and mitigate the risks.

Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of BIS, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability.

Ensure that any conflicts of interest at Board level are kept to a minimum and handled appropriately in line with BIS policy.

Lead the Board performance review and implement an appropriate action plan.

COMMUNICATIONS AND WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

Work closely with the CEO to set the Board agendas and ensure that the Board meetings are well planned and decisions taken are implemented and monitored.

Develop and maintain an open and supportive relationship with the CEO including regular contact, whilst respecting their executive responsibilities.

Line manage the CEO ensuring they have the opportunity for professional development, including carrying out their annual appraisal.

Maintain close relationships with key stakeholders and influencers such as UK Sport, the International Skating Union and the Home Nations’ Sports Councils.

Represent BIS at external functions, meetings and events, acting as an ambassador for BIS at all times and a spokesperson when appropriate to promote the Association and the sport of ice skating.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

A strong track record of leadership with the ability harness the skills of all the directors and the operations team in delivering the organisation’s vision and mission.

Strategic ability together with the capacity to delegate and prioritise.

 The ability to consult effectively, listen non-judgmentally, debate productively, and the courage to make decisions accordingly.

A firm commitment to diversity and continuing the drive to widen demographic access to skating.

A clear vision informed by an up-to-date, understanding of Sport and the operation of an NGB including governance requirements.

The ability to lead by example and to motivate a strong team of professional colleagues.  An understanding of the opportunities and challenges of leading an NGB.

A firm commitment to diversity and continuing the drive to widen demographic access to skating.  An entrepreneurial mind-set with business and commercial acumen.

The ability to provide challenge and work collaboratively with the Board and CEO to forge the future direction of BIS.

Excellent communication skills with the ability to speak compellingly to all stakeholders.  Confidence in the public-facing role and the ability to embody the values of BIS.

A passion for sport, with an enthusiasm to develop skating and the organisation.

A positive and progressive outlook, with ambition, resilience, and a sense of humour.

For more information about British Ice Skating’s structure and strategy, see our site.

 APPLICATION PROCESS 

If you would like to have an informal chat about the role, please get in touch with the Executive PA Parul Jani.

When you are ready to apply, please send a copy of your CV and a cover letter outlining how you meet the requirements of the role, plus a completed copy of the BIS Equality Monitoring Form, to the Executive PA, Parul Jani, via email.

• Applications close Sunday 15th September at 5pm.
• Interviews for shortlisted candidates are planned for the week commencing Monday 30th September.

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. You can find out more about volunteering with Oxfam here.

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!

We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Bristol and South Gloucestershire Group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills. 

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the XXX area to carry out this role.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

About Us

The Redbridge Carers Support Service is a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing support, guidance, and respite to unpaid carers in the Redbridge community. We understand the challenges faced by carers and strive to improve their quality of life by offering a range of services, including emotional support, practical advice, and access to local resources.

The Redbridge Carers Support Service is seeking a dedicated Volunteer Social Media role to join our team!

We are seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our team as Volunteer Social Media Ambassadors. In this role, you will have the chance to use your creativity and communication skills to promote our cause and engage with our online community.

Key Responsibilities:

- Interact with followers and supporters to build a strong online community

- Create engaging content for our social media platforms

- Share inspiring stories and updates about our organisation

- Collaborate with the marketing team to develop impactful social media campaigns

Benefits:

- Gain valuable experience in social media management

- Showcase your creativity and communication skills

- Make a meaningful difference by spreading awareness about our cause

Requirements:

- Passion for our cause and a desire to make a positive impact

- Strong communication, creative and writing skills

- Graphic design / illustration skills

- Familiarity with popular social media platforms

Time Commitment:

We ask for a commitment of at least 4 hours per week, preferably during regular office hours. However, we are open to discussing flexible arrangements that suit both the volunteer and the organisation.

How to Apply:

If you are interested in this rewarding volunteer opportunity, please send a copy of your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your motivation to volunteer with the Redbridge Carers Support Service.

Becoming a Trustee for Herts Musical Memories

Herts Musical Memories are celebrating there 8th Year of becoming a charity and we are now at last, beginning to recover from the Pandemic. We urgently need to expand our board to ensure that the charity continues to grow – the following provides some background to our work and lays out what it means to become a trustee.

Herts Musical Memories purposes are:

• To facilitate structured group sessions designed around the principles of music therapy and group singing for people with dementia and their carers.

Herts Musical Memories objectives are:

• To provide activities for people with dementia and their carers that help stimulate memories

• To provide activities that incorporate social interaction and peer support for people with dementia and their carers

• To reduce feelings of isolation for families coping with dementia and to provide access to artistic and social stimulation

What Herts Musical Memories values are:

Health, wellbeing and equality will be at the core of all Herts Musical Memories activities relating to service users, staff and volunteers and the wider public.

In relation to our service users Herts Musical Memories will actively promote equality for people with dementia.  To free them from fear and isolation and to use our services to demonstrate to the wider public that people with dementia still have a place in society and should be treated with dignity and respect.

The Singing Sessions:

‘Thank you for Bringing the sunshine into my Mum’s week.’  Carer

Herts Musical Memories provides stimulating social activities involving music, seated movement and singing for people with dementia and their carers.  The charity runs 9  groups in 4 weekly blocks across Hertfordshire with an admin and song preparation session every 5th week.  There is an average of 25 people per session with sometimes over 30 people attending.  The sessions last 90 minutes with time set aside for socialising and light refreshments. 

Most of the participants are dealing with the impact of an early diagnosis and are usually accompanied by a family member, usually a spouse.  People who live alone often come with a professional carer.

Sessions are held at fixed dates and times in community centres or church halls. The venues are chosen carefully for ease of access, to be on regular bus routes, good parking and for having good facilities. This does mean that, sometimes the venue can be expensive, but the venue plays an important part in making the sessions a positive experience.

The sessions are structured to include a range of activities that are repeated each week providing the service users with a routine that becomes familiar with regular attendance.  Songs are chosen from popular music from the 1950s going up to the 1970s. The sessions will include; songs that require movement, singing rounds where people get a chance to sing in harmony, rhythm exercises using percussion instruments and exercises in dexterity using bean bags.

The service users are taught new songs – incredibly due to the way the human brain remembers music, people with dementia can cope with this and actively enjoy learning new things – this increases their confidence and boosts their self-esteem.

The sessions are delivered by a professional group leader with the support of volunteers. 

Finances:

Herts Musical Memories has no formal funding – we raise a contribution through fees which are £6 per session, we raise up to £10,000 per year through events held on our behalf another £5,000 through donations and the rest we have to fundraise for.  To run the charity effectively we need to raise just over £10,000 per group.  To help us achieve this we have developed a 5 year fundraising strategy.  Our goals are to achieve enough funding to recruit a part time administrator, create a reserve of 6 months running costs ensuring a sustainable future.

‘I’d like to thank you, you make me feel so happy’ - guest

What Does it Involve to Become a Trustee

Trustees share formal responsibility for the charity and must act in its best interests, regardless of how they're elected or appointed. Some trustees may take on specific roles on the board, such as chair, vice-chair, secretary and treasurer.

Herts Musical Memories meets 4 times per year mainly on Zoom but with some face to face in West Hertfordshire.  If a trustee has particular expertise in finance, fundraising, HR we do occasionally hold one on one sub meetings with the CEO.  No experience is necessary as there is plenty of training available – it is a commitment but it is a rewarding commitment.  Becoming a trustee is about taking on a position where you can make a real difference to the people who live in your local community.

Top five traits of a good trustee

· A good trustee is ready for a challenge – running a small charity is always a challenge and supporting the CEO in facing those challenges is a vital role of a trustee.  Whether it be support, advice or helping to access the necessary expertise that can support the charities development

· They are open and listen to many voices – there are many people prepared to offer advice and many voices to be heard, from the team running the charity to the beneficiaries.  Listening and understanding enables a trustee to offer advice and help the charity seek solutions that will improve and enable it to reach its goals.

· Trustees are team players – running a charity is a team effort which is relevant from the Board through to the beneficiaries by working together as a team a charity is more likely to prosper and grow.

· Trustees have expert knowledge – this expert knowledge can be in training, marketing, fundraising, HR, Law or it could be in a first hand knowledge of the charities services and the impact it has on families and the ability to use that understanding to enhance the charities service for people living with dementia.

· They exercise good judgement and care – this is essential, working with vulnerable adults comes with a lot of responsibility. We need to be sure we work within the parameters of Charity Commission’s guidelines to ensure good practice which protects all involved from the  trustees, staff and beneficiaries.

A good trustee also knows what they are doing within the framework of their role. At a basic level, they should understand and know how to act as described by The Charity Commission.  The regulator’s ‘The essential trustee’ guidance sets out six main duties:

· Ensuring that the charity is working for the benefit of the public

· Compliance with the law

· Acting in the best interests of the charity

· Ensuring accountability

· Financial responsibility

· Acting with reasonable care and skill

It may seem overwhelming to become a trustee but it is, as mentioned so rewarding and the satisfaction, that as a trustee you are truly making a positive difference to people lives.

 Please note Herts Musical Memories is based in Bushey, Hertfordshire (Hence why this is the position location listed), however meetings with trustees are typically held in locations within West Hertfordshire or remotely via Zoom.

CONCORDIA

Meetings in

Brighton and London       

Appointment of three Trustees with experience of:

• Digital

• Volunteering

• Business Development with finance experience

Concordia, founded in 1943, holds a unique position, with 80 years of experience bringing international workers to the UK and supporting volunteering placements. Our respected and expert perspective needs to be voiced more widely to challenge unhelpful public perceptions of international work placements as well as cross-cultural misapprehensions.

Today, we continue to place international workers on UK farms to carry out a range of seasonal work, as well as helping to bring in harvests and feed the nation while enabling prosperity for the communities of workers back home. We also facilitate volunteer placements, for individuals and groups, specialising in international and cross-cultural exchange. 

With an innovative strategy we are seeking trustees to join our Board who:

• are excited by the vision and the ambition of Concordia and can contribute to a strategic, cohesive and effective Board

• recognise and understand Concordia’s special UK and international role to encourage an understanding of different beliefs and cultures and promote harmony between nations 

• have successful leadership experience, possessing excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well energy and commitment

If you would like to find out more we would be pleased to hear from you. For an informal confidential discussion call Richard Evans or Kevin Everett

Please download further details of the position from our website:

Marylebone Executive Search

Apply online with a CV and brief personal statement outlining why you are interested in joining Concordia. 

Closing date for applications: 11 September 2024

Initial interviews: 16 – 27 September 2024

Final Panel Interviews:          8 October 2024

To find out more visit: Concordia's website

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on young people’s lives? Do you have a friendly, welcoming personality and a good sense of humour? We invite you to join our team as a Volunteer Project Worker! You’ll engage with young individuals through various programs, providing support, guidance, and creating a positive, enjoyable atmosphere. Your enthusiasm and commitment will help foster a nurturing environment, making a real difference in their lives and contributing to our community’s success.

As a Volunteer Project Worker, you will play a key role in supporting our outreach sessions. Your friendly and welcoming demeanour will contribute to creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere for children of all ages and backgrounds. Whatever your PASSION is – come and teach our children!!! Your main responsibilities may include:

1. Play Sessions: - Engage with children in interactive and imaginative play sessions, promoting creativity and social development.

2. Cookery Activities: - Assist in cookery sessions, helping children explore the joy of preparing simple, nutritious meals.

3. Sewing and Crafting: - Guide children in sewing and crafting activities, fostering their artistic expression and fine motor skills.

4. Friendly Support: - Provide a warm and welcoming presence, ensuring that every child feels valued and included during the sessions.

5. Sense of Humour: - Bring your good sense of humour to create a joyful and enjoyable environment for both children and fellow volunteers.

6. Flexibility: - Be adaptable and ready to assist in various activities as needed during outreach sessions.

Derwentside College is supported by a Board of determined, successful professionals who share a collective belief in the transformative power of education. Join them in realising their vision to be an outstanding college that is highly valued by learners and partners.

• Location: Consett, County Durham

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 23rd September.

Who we are

Located in a semi-rural location, high on the edge of the Pennines, Derwentside College is based on a single site in the heart of the town of Consett. We offer a diverse range of provisions to young people and adults from across the local, predominantly rural community. We currently deliver education and training to around 4,000 learners across over 200 courses, supported by around 170 staff.

About the role.

As you will see from our refreshed strategic plan, we have a vision to be an outstanding college highly valued by our learners and partners.

We recognise that, as a leadership team and as a board, without outstanding governance, you can’t be outstanding in other areas. It is this understanding, coupled with our mission to provide high-quality education and training, that shapes the future and transforms lives that has led to the recent growth and improvement of our governing body.

Our Board is led by our Chair, David Allsop, who has worked tirelessly with our Principal & CEO, Chris Todd, and other colleagues across our leadership and board to refocus the direction, culture and aspirations of the College.

Part of this process has been David and Chris’s work together to build a renewed sense of collegiality across our board. We have appointed a number of new members who are experienced, successful experts in their respective fields who are already offering a new level of challenge, scrutiny, and support. This is driving a more inclusive culture of successful governance.

Given the depth of our ambitions, we are now seeking to recruit further governors to our board who can offer their own professional expertise whilst bringing a new and different set of questions that will ensure that we continue to deliver on our mission.

As such, we would welcome applications from individuals with professional expertise in the following areas:

• Audit & Risk
• Local strategic leadership

Who are we looking for?

We recently refreshed our strategic intentions and reasserted our drive towards a future of prosperity. To achieve our organisational aims, it is vital that our Board continues to be made up of experts and experienced professionals who can offer the appropriate levels of challenge and lines of questioning to allow us to grow, develop, and improve.

Following a recent successful governor recruitment process and having given further thought to the expertise we need across our Board, we have identified two key areas of expertise that we believe will further strengthen our Board’s ability to offer deeper scrutiny, challenge, and support to our senior leadership team.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 23rd September.

We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Brent group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills. 

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Brent area to carry out this role.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

We are currently looking for a personal assistant to the charity's chair person.

Responsibilities typically include: 

· Acting as a first point of contact for enquiries: (email/calendar management and managing diaries 

· Typing, compiling, and preparing reports, presentations, and correspondence. 

· Miscellaneous tasks to support the Chair

· Forming a relationship with our clients as they are part of the community. 

Essential skills for this role are: 

· Organization skills: The ability to prioritize tasks, manage time, and keep track of deadlines is crucial.  

· Communication skills: should be able to communicate effectively in writing. 

· Attention to detail: the ability to pick up on small details can prevent costly mistakes from occurring. 

· Problem-solving skills: the ability to identify and resolve problems quickly and efficiently.  

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause. The organisation has a warm and friendly atmosphere and will be extremely rewarding for the candidate. 

Would you like to volunteer your time and knowledge as a Trustee to support Latin American communities across London and the UK? IRMO would love to hear from you.

We are recruiting three new trustees to help steer our organisation through its next chapter of growth. As board members, IRMO trustees play a vital role in supporting our organisation to broaden its reach and impact, bringing valuable and varied expertise to the table.

We particularly encourage individuals from the Latin American community to apply. However, we would like to hear from all candidates who believe they can make a difference for our organisation and our community.

About IRMO

Our vision is a future where Latin Americans and other Spanish and Portuguese speakers living in the UK have equal rights, live free from poverty and discrimination, and feel empowered to pursue their aspirations.

Our mission is to enable the development, agency, and participation of all Latin Americans and other Spanish and Portuguese speakers, by responding to both immediate needs and structural inequalities. 

We do this by offering high-quality information and advice services, opportunities for development and training, and a platform to seek social and systemic change. Our work is organized across three main operational areas—Advice and Casework, education, Training and Employment, and children and Young People—and a crosscutting area: Advocacy, Research, and Campaigning.

With 40 years of experience, we support over 4,000 people every year. 

Being a Trustee

IRMO’s Board of Trustees is made up of six to nine Trustees, who work together to ensure the charity is run properly. As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to support IRMO’s strategic development and oversee its finances. Trustees meet every two months (usually online in the evening) and are asked to commit an additional eight to ten hours between meetings to follow up on actions and provide advice and input on strategic documents and areas of work relevant to their areas of expertise.

General Responsibilities

• Stay up to date with and assess the political, economic and social contexts that affect IRMO’s work
• Support the development of and approve IRMO’s key strategic documents
• Annually review and approve IRMO’s budget
• Review, update and approve major policies
• Approve salaries, benefits, terms and conditions for staff
• Ensure that IRMO’s financial structure is adequate for its current needs and long-term strategy
• Ensure that the organisation has the necessary resources in place to meet its long-term goals
• Ensure that the Board of Trustees is adequately informed of the condition of the organisation and its operations
• Ensure that published reports adequately reflect the nature of the services and the financial condition of the organisation
• Approve major actions of the organisation, such as capital expenditure over authorised limits and major changes in activities and services 
• Review staff results in relation to IRMO’s aims and objectives, as well as annual and long-term goals
• Appoint, supervise, support, and appraise IRMO’s Director
• Provide candid and constructive criticism, advice, comments and praise
• Ensure that the Director has established appropriate policies to define and identify conflicts of interest throughout the organisation and are administering and enforcing those policies
• Appoint independent examiners/auditors subject to approval by members
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation affecting the organisation
• Annually review the performance of the Board of Trustees and take steps to improve its performance

We encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible, as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Could you look after the finances for the local SSAFA service in your area? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T and finance skills. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Branch Treasurer?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into small local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a treasurer overseeing the divisions that, in turn each have a treasurer of their own. This is a key role involving financial planning and financial administration.

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.

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.

One of the key ways we help people is by tapping into various sources of funding on their behalf. Monitoring and reconciling this flow of funding into and out of SSAFA accounts is important to ensure clients receive timely support and we are able to account for all charitable funds in our care.

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. This flexible role involves using our on-line financial management system and on-line bank accounts and so can be done when and where suits you best. You will need to attend a number of branch committee meetings each year.

What would you be doing?

• Maintaining and reconciling local bank accounts and recording transactions
• Supporting divisions to manage their local finances.
• Making and recording all authorised payments
• Preparing year end accounts and financial statements including arranging an independent review
• Working with the branch secretary, advise on a local fundraising programme to cover branch running costs.
• Identify and manage the return of any surplus monies from grants as appropriate.
• Providing reports to the branch committee and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Maintaining accurate records using our on-line finance management system
• 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 responsible role in a well-respected charity
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• 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.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• 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 – treasurers webinar (with some pre-course learning), and financial management system training.
• 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.
• Support from the branch Chair and the Finance team based as our central office.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses
• Support from the Volunteer Support Manager and the Volunteer Support 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 some experience of financial administration
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Willingness to use our on-line banking and on-line finance management system (this is covered in training)
• Reliable attitude: contact volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to gravel to meetings 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

Communications Coordinator

Working to support disadvantaged young people or trekking the Inca Trail? Why not do both?! 

Get the best of both worlds for a volunteering opportunity where you give your skills, rather than your money. 

Are you looking for a break from 9-5? Or are you looking to do a year abroad as part of your studies, or even before you start your studies, in an exciting and challenging environment? When volunteering with LAFF your skills will be put to good use and you will have the opportunity to work directly with beneficiaries, gain valuable field experience and increase awareness of international development issues. Based in beautiful Peru, on the doorstep of Machu Picchu, this is also a great chance to improve your Spanish fluency.

Location: Cusco
Employment Type: Full-time unpaid volunteering positions of minimum 7 hours per day are preferable, though applications for part time roles are also considered.

Leave: 2 days per month
Duration: 3 months
Application Deadline: Ongoing 

Communications is an essential part of LAFF’s work as a means of creating long term relationships with supporters. As the Communications Coordinator, you will play a key role in fostering new relationships and maintaining existing ones. 

You will focus on informing our communities of relevant news from LAFF, our partners, and Peru. Your independent research skills and innovation will see you collaborate with all of LAFF’s team to collect and present information. You will also work closely with Fundraising to develop campaigns and tailor communications to specific audiences.

LAFF’s mission of supporting access to education through partnership with local organisations means that you will work closely with partners to get updates and new material. LAFF believes in celebrating progress and raising awareness, and not exploiting vulnerable personal circumstances in our communications. You will ensure that all visual and written media complies with our Brand Guidelines and does not engage with ‘poverty porn’. Your success in this position will rely on your understanding of the socio-economic problems in Peru that affect LAFF’s beneficiaries, and your ability to effectively communicate the importance of LAFF’s work and progress.

Objectives of this Role

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, the Communications Coordinator will be expected to carry out the following tasks: 

1. Manage all of LAFF’s communications 

2. Produce and disseminate high quality electronic communication regarding LAFF’s activities.

3. Provide semi-monthly and monthly reports on social media performance

4. Collaborate with LAFF’s Fundraising Coordinator to build relationships with donors, identify new funding opportunities and launch effective online campaigns

5. Maximize and update LAFF’s communications strategy

6. Maintain and strengthen LAFF’s online presence

7. Write and publish articles to raise awareness of thematic issues central to the aims of LAFF

8. Support the marketing efforts of our partners’ social enterprises

9. Ensure that communication practices reflect LAFF’s priorities, mission and vision

10. Network and strengthen the social media strategy to link LAFF with other stakeholders and organizations (including NGOs, donors, companies, universities and other supporters) to ensure continued support for existing and new initiatives

Skills and Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in a related field (Communications, Languages, International Relations) or experience working in a communications role

• Volunteering experience and/or work experience in Communications, PR, Journalism, Education and International Development highly desirable

• Intermediate or advanced Spanish skills

• Experience with/good knowledge of different social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter)

• Proficient in graphic design and formatting tools such as Canva and Adobe InDesign

• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills

• Interest in acquiring communications and International Development experience

• Highly organized, flexible, independent, culturally sensitive and detail oriented with the ability to multitask

• Good knowledge of GSuite

Personal Qualities

We are looking for a motivated individual who is able to work individually and as part of a team. The Communications Coordinator position requires a proactive attitude and attention to detail to collect relevant information across the full team to update donors and LAFF’s online community. Time management is key so that deadlines are met in time for feedback to be incorporated before publishing communications. A creative mindset will engage LAFF’s community with new and interesting communications, whilst analytical thinking is also important for maintaining a consistency in external communications and social media posts. The right candidate will understand LAFF’s mission and reflect this in the voice and message they use when designing content.

About Latin American Foundation for the Future
The Latin American foundation for the Future (LAFF) is a UK-based charity supporting marginalised children and young people in Peru. We work through local partner organisations in Cusco and support activities and projects in the areas of formal education; vocational skills and personal development; sustainability, including income generation, cost reduction and capacity building. We strive to empower our beneficiaries enabling them to become independent and sustainable. 

To apply:

Complete and submit a response to our volunteer application form and highlight ‘Communications’ as your area under the ‘Coordinator Positions’ section.

Please note this position is unpaid. Successful applicants will be contacted to arrange an online interview.