Environmental Volunteers Volunteer Roles in Belfast

Role description

Are you passionate about changing the way we treat animals? Do you want to help reduce environmental damage? Do you want to inspire people to enjoy healthy vegan food that both looks good and tastes great? 

The Vegan Society aims to make veganism more accessible. We help people to adopt a vegan lifestyle by supporting individuals, policy and decision-makers, caterers, manufacturers, healthcare professionals and the media. 

Why do we need you? 

Dr Jeanette Rowley is a consultant on veganism and the law and our Vegan Rights Advocate. Jeanette has been a leader in the promotion of the legal rights of vegans for over a decade and is the founder and chair of The Vegan Society’s International Rights Network. She is now looking for a volunteer to help refresh and update published material relating to the legal protection of vegans. This project will include working on our guide for employers and relevant content on our website. 

What does the role involve? 

The role involves working collaboratively with our Vegan Rights Advocate to review, assess, evaluate and update the information provided on our website and in some of our resources, such as our guide Supporting Veganism in the Workplace. 

At the review and assessment stages, you will read specific advocacy resources to familiarise yourself with the subject matter and content. You will conduct independent research into each specific topic, take notes from relevant authoritative online sources, and assist in evaluating our resources and identifying areas requiring updating and development. 

You will contribute to research on equality and inclusion, help to communicate best practice, fact-check information, and assist with redrafting and updating copy. 

What training and support are available? 

This role will come with an induction session and access to a regular point of contact to support you as a volunteer. You will receive an introduction to the project and tasks. Although the work will be carried out remotely, you will not be required to work totally independently and will work on the tasks collaboratively on a mutually agreed basis. 

What knowledge, experience and skills are required for this role? 

• General knowledge and understanding of UK Equality Diversity and Inclusion principles and practice 
• Experience and skills in conducting research 
• The ability to work both collaboratively and independently 
• Proficient in written English 
• Experience of using Word and working on shared documents 
• A legal or advocacy-related background would be useful, but is not essential. 

What does my availability need to be? 

This role is for a fixed period of six months. We ask for volunteers to commit to about four to six hours a week, although this may vary from week to week. The role can be performed outside traditional working hours and in any time zone, although staff support is only available between 9am and 5pm UK time.

Who does this role report to? 

Dr Jeanette Rowley will be the main point of contact for the tasks. Kaya Gromocki, our Senior Volunteering and Engagement Officer, will be available for support and for anything related to your volunteering experience. 

Surfers Against Sewage

Join the Wave of Change

Are you ready to inspire and guide efforts to restore and protect our ocean? Surfers Against Sewage is seeking a dynamic and daring leader to take the helm as our Chair of the Board. 

As we enter a new strategic plan period for 2025-2028, we are driven by our values of being open, authentic, daring, dynamic, and purposeful. We are a vibrant and diverse community of Ocean Activists, taking action where we surf, swim, and play. 

Our mission is to connect the stories, evidence, and data of our community to those in power to demand systemic change. As a strong advocate and skilled networker, you will amplify our voice, build influential relationships, and mobilize support to advance our cause. 

We are ambitious and seek nothing short of an end to pollution and the restoration of our seas and wild waters. You’ll work closely with the Chief Executive and the Board to push the boundaries of what we might achieve and help keep SAS at the forefront of environmental activism. We sound the alarm and lead the fight to stop polluters, always.

YOU WILL BE:

• Passionate about the Ocean: You have an authentic connection to the water, whether you surf, swim, or simply love the sea.
• A Strong Advocate: You are a powerful voice for the ocean, capable of inspiring and mobilizing others.
• A Skilled Networker: You bring experience and influence, with the ability to build and leverage networks to advance our mission.
• Campaign Savvy: You understand the power of great campaigning and share our thrill in creating positive change.
• Values-Driven: You operate with a strong steer from your values and share ours of being open, authentic, daring, dynamic, purposeful, and driven by a diverse and inclusive community.
• Collaborative Leader: You have an inclusive leadership style and enjoy working with others to achieve common goals.
• Fun-Loving: You have a good sense of fun and share our enjoyment for the way we campaign.

RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE:

• Strategic Leadership: Provide leadership of the Board in setting the strategic direction and priorities for SAS, ensuring effective governance while pushing the boundaries of our campaigning and activism.
• Support the Chief Executive: Drive our mission and objectives by ensuring SAS stays at the forefront in the fight to protect and restore the ocean.
• Governance and Management: Ensure the Board fulfils its governance and management duties and responsibilities.
• Team Building: Harness the skills, experience, and energy of the Board to create an effective and cohesive team for the CEO and Leadership team.
• Advocacy and Networking: Build and leverage networks to advance our mission, including political networks and connections with key influencers.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

• Connection to the Water: Whether professionally or through your passion, you have a deep connection to the ocean.
• Knowledge: Expertise in the water sector, plastics, chemicals, water sports, social or environmental change, politics, or policy.
• Media Savvy: Experience with public interviews, TV, and radio.
• Networking: Strong connections and influence with key people, including political networks.
• Community Engagement: Focus on healthy blue communities and economies, improving ecosystems and well-being.
• Transparency and Honesty: Lead on providing accurate and accessible real-time data, revealing the truth to deliver UK-wide transparency about all sewage and plastic pollution.
• Passion: Lead on a nature-based approach to ensure our rivers, lakes, and seas can thrive again, valuing and protecting nature forever.

TERM AND COMMITMENT

The Chair of the Board is typically appointed for a term of three years, with the possibility of reappointment. 

The role requires a modest time commitment, including attending Board meetings, representing SAS at events and in the media, and engaging with stakeholders, joining us on protests and at stunts. 

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Summary

The Sussex Area of the Ramblers has two Countryside Officers, one for East Sussex and one for West Sussex. The primary activity in the role is to act on behalf of members where a reported planning development is likely to have an adverse impact on the walking environment in the Sussex countryside.

Description

The Ramblers, which celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2025, is the only charity dedicated to removing barriers so everyone can enjoy walking in green spaces, and to improving Britain’s most popular and least-known walking places. We’re committed to campaigning to keep our countryside open to all and to fighting for the things that matter most to walkers. We lead the way, and the walks, for a vibrant community united by the joys of walking, helping everyone get more out of their walks. 

The role of East Sussex Area Countryside Officer involves reviewing planning applications published by Local Authorities and lodging objections on behalf of Sussex Ramblers if an application is likely to have an adverse impact on the Sussex countryside and the places where people walk. Objections may be expressed in writing through a response to the planning process, but could also involve site visits and on occasions attendance at public hearings or meetings with representatives of Local Authorities or with other stakeholders such as Parish Councils and environmental and wildlife organisations.

The role holder will work closely with other Ramblers volunteers such as the East Sussex Area Footpath Officer, the West Sussex Area Countryside Officer and Local Footpath Wardens in East Sussex and where necessary will seek advice and guidance from Ramblers' Central Office. Other main contacts include the Local Authorities, Parish/Town Councils, the South Downs National Park Authority and the East Sussex Local Access Forum. The role holder will be a member of the Area leadership team (Area Council). You will need to be a member of the Ramblers.

About Waterwatch UK

Waterwatch UK is currently transitioning to become a charity, strengthening its mission to hold polluters accountable and empower communities to protect and improve water quality. We work to ensure transparency, drive policy change, and support public engagement in safeguarding our waterways.

Role Purpose

As a trustee, you will provide strategic oversight, ensure good governance, and help Waterwatch UK achieve its mission. Trustees collectively guide the organisation’s direction, legal compliance, financial health, and public impact.

Available Trustee Roles

We are recruiting trustees with expertise in the following areas. Candidates should specify in your application which role they are applying for.

Please note that the specific roles may be adjusted based on the applications we receive to ensure the best mix of skills and expertise on the board.

1. Chair of Trustees

• Leads the board, ensuring effective governance, decision-making, and strategic direction.
• Acts as a key ambassador for Waterwatch UK.
• Supports and guides the CEO.
• Chairs board meetings and ensures all trustees are engaged.

2. Treasurer

• Oversees financial planning, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Ensures compliance with charity financial regulations.
• Works with the CEO to develop sustainable funding strategies.

3. Secretary (Governance Trustee)

• Manages governance processes, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission requirements.
• Supports meeting administration, record-keeping, and reporting.
• Ensures policies and procedures are up to date.

4. Fundraising & Grants Trustee

• Develops and oversees fundraising strategies, including grant applications and donor engagement.
• Identifies new funding opportunities and partnerships.
• Advises on diversifying income sources.

5. Marketing & Communications Trustee

• Leads public engagement strategies, including branding, digital media, and PR.
• Supports outreach efforts to raise awareness and grow Waterwatch’s supporter base.
• Advises on website, social media, and campaign strategies.

6. Legal & Compliance Trustee

• Ensures Waterwatch UK operates within charity law and regulatory requirements.
• Provides legal guidance on governance, contracts, and policies.
• Advises on risk management.

7. Community Engagement & Partnerships Trustee

• Strengthens relationships with local communities, ensuring Waterwatch UK remains community-led.
• Develops partnerships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, and campaign groups.
• Supports volunteer engagement.

8. Environmental & Policy Trustee

• Provides expertise on water pollution, environmental law, and policy advocacy.
• Helps shape Waterwatch UK’s campaigns and policy positions.
• Engages with policymakers and regulators to push for systemic change.

General Trustee Responsibilities

• Ensure Waterwatch UK operates in line with its charitable objectives and complies with relevant laws.
• Contribute to strategic planning, decision-making, and risk management.
• Support financial oversight, ensuring funds are well managed and aligned with charitable goals.
• Represent Waterwatch UK’s values, advocating for its mission and engaging with stakeholders.
• Participate in board meetings and relevant working groups or committees.

Person Specification

We are looking for individuals who:

• Are committed to Waterwatch UK’s mission and values.
• Have expertise in at least one of the areas listed above.
• Can dedicate time and energy to board meetings and strategic work.
• Bring an independent perspective and constructive challenge.

Time Commitment

• Attend quarterly board meetings (in person or virtual).
• Participate in relevant working groups or committees.
• Support fundraising, advocacy, or governance efforts as needed.

Why Become a Trustee?

• Help shape the future of a newly forming charity tackling water pollution.
• Gain board-level experience and expand your professional network.
• Be part of a passionate and purpose-driven team.

How to Apply

Please include the trustee role you are applying for.

In your email, please include:

• A short expression of interest (1-2 pages) outlining:
  • The role you are applying for.
  • Your relevant experience and skills.
  • Why you want to support Waterwatch UK.
• Your CV
• LinkedIn profile (optional).

Currently, expenses are not covered, but the role should not incur any financial burden as it is remote. Once we secure funding, expenses will be reimbursed.

Deadline for applications: 17th April 2025 at 18:00

Treasurer (Trustee) - CPRE Oxfordshire

We’re passionate about making the countryside in Oxfordshire a better place for everyone to enjoy. Our vibrant team of volunteers inspire people to care for the countryside and enjoy the benefits it brings wherever they live.

With your support we can do even more! As treasurer you’ll have an essential role in planning and accounting for our finances to ensure the long-term sustainability of our charity you will also be a member of the CPRE Oxfordshire’s Board of Trustees.

Our friendly team will provide you with training and support to develop in your role. You’ll gain valuable skills and experience in the financial management of a charity.

Why we want you:

By volunteering with us you’ll be helping to find positive solutions for the issues facing the countryside and the environment. By applying your skills and experience you can make a real difference and be a central part of a friendly and passionate charity.

As treasurer you’ll ensure our financial affairs are conducted within legal requirements and good practice. You’ll work closely with the team to oversee the financial sustainability and development of our charity.

We’re ideally looking for volunteers with experience in financial management and a passion for environmental and countryside issues.

As a guide, we anticipate this voluntary role will take 3-4 hours per week. The Board of Trustees meets 3 times a year plus an AGM (normally a Saturday in June/July). There are 3 additional Operational management meetings a year that you would be required to attend.

What you will be doing:

· Keeping accurate records of income and expenditure in line with legal regulation.

· ​ Helping us to set an annual budget and periodically produce an updated rolling five yearly financial plan which will help assess the future viability of the charity

· Regularly reviewing the reserves policy considering the latest Charity Commission guidance, seek approval from trustees for any amendments

· Providing advice to trustees on investments when the level of reserves exceeds 12 months of expenditure considering latest Charity Commission guidance

· Being a signatory for cheque payments, reimbursing invoices, paying monthly staff salaries and expenses

·  Preparing financial reports and appoint auditors annually to independently audit and inspect the accounts

· Ensuring that the final accounts are produced in accordance with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) and that funds are correctly identified. The chair's annual report must be in accordance with SORP

· Working with the charity’s secretary ensure that the approved annual and audited accounts are presented to Companies House on time

· Summarising a set of accounts to be presented at the AGM. 

·  Leading the annual review of finance policies and procedures advising trustees of any changes

· Acting as the lead contact for both the charity’s bank and CCLA Investment Management Limited.  Ensure that the mandates for both organisations reflect the latest finance procedures

· Regularly review cash flow and ensure that funds are available in the current bank account to meet day to day activities

·  Updating National CPRE about our charity finances

· Assisting with funding applications and accounting for external funding

· Where relevant, ensuring employment regulations are met e.g. staff salaries, pensions.  Advise chair and seek approval from trustees on the annual pay award for staff

·  Safeguarding the good name and values of our charity

· We ask that a treasurer is willing to become a trustee of the charity and a member of CPRE

The skills you need:

· A commitment to CPRE policies, brand, campaigns and initiatives

·  Ability to keep accurate records and confidence in handling finances

·  Experience of setting and managing budgets

· Experience in financial software and spread sheets

· Experience of forward planning income and expenditure

· Be able to provide financial updates and present information in an understandable way

· Access to a computer and the internet at home

· Be able to commit to volunteering regularly to suit your availability including attendance at meetings

· Happy carrying out tasks independently and as part of a team

· Good written and verbal communication skills

What's in it for you:

· Use your skills and experience to contribute to the success of our charity and make a positive difference to the countryside

· Meet like-minded people and enjoy being part of a team, there will be opportunities to get involved with social events and workshops locally

· Enhance your CV by developing new skills and gaining valuable experience

· We’ll give you a reference for your future work or volunteering

· The opportunity to attend a volunteer induction day hosted by CPRE’s national office

· The role is voluntary although we will pay out-of-pocket travel expenses

We are looking for a highly motivated Partnerships Development Assistant in maintaining our relationships with charities and enterprises as well as expanding now-u’s base of partnerships. You will have a strong passion for forming partnerships and will bring your knowledge and interest to the team to deliver excellent growth for now-u.

You should be confident in pursuing new partnership opportunities, using the organisation's CRM system and reporting data to the Head of Partnerships on a recurring basis.

You will hold a hands-on role working in a small team and you will be comfortable working in a team on projects, identifying new opportunities, proposing how best to support and deliver them in collaboration with other departments.

If this job excites you, we look forward to hearing from you, with your CV and a cover letter as to why your previous experience (preferable but not necessary) would suit the role. If you feel like you may not have all the experience but feel, with the right development this is the right opportunity for you then still apply.

Your role

• Working with the Head Of Partnerships to identify potential charity and social enterprise partners.

• Contacting charities to form potential partnerships.

• Building relationships with existing partners.

• Working with the wider team to plan and execute campaigns and initiatives.

• Writing and designing proposals to potential partnerships.

• Support the Head of Partnerships in delivering the strategic initiatives to enable us to achieve our long-term growth and vision

• Manage and keep the organisation data and CRM system up to date.

Qualifications/Experience

It is essential you have partnerships experience and you enjoy working with people. You would also need digital skills and learn how to use tools such as Gmail and Slack. Experience maintaining a CRM would be desirable

Who we are

now-u is a new non-profit app, launched in July 2020, with a mission to inform, involve and inspire people to help tackle some of the world’s most pressing environmental and social problems. In these unprecedented times, we cannot ‘go back to normal’.  The now-u app facilitates ways for people to do good that are easy, enjoyable, and make a real difference to people, communities and the planet. This July, our four campaigns are: i) domestic abuse in the UK, ii) refugee welfare & resettlement in Europe, iii) water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) around the world and iv) a green recovery.

This is an opportunity to provide really important support to a new project that we hope could really make a positive difference in the world. You would also become part of a small friendly volunteer team who would love to work collaboratively on any other ideas you may have regarding the app.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The Organisation
Tearfund is a Christ-centred INGO, founded in 1968. We have a huge vision: to see all people freed from poverty, living transformed lives and reaching their God-given potential. Tearfund’s role is to be a highly effective, servant-hearted partner of local churches. We currently support 31,000 churches in more than 50 of the world’s poorest countries, and our aspiration is to equip 250,000 churches to be transformation centres for their communities and countries. As we do this, we are seeing extraordinary and sustained change at both individual and community level, across a wide range of countries and contexts. The church is the largest civil society organisation on the planet, and we believe the church is the most powerful agent of holistic, transformational change in the world.

To find out more about the work Tearfund do, visit the website.

The Role:
In addition to the specific requirements for the Digital Trustee set out below, the successful candidate will be able to demonstrate that they:

• Are a committed Christian, actively involved in their local church and willing to affirm Tearfund’s statement of faith, with some understanding of the evangelical constituency of the church in the country and region in which they live;
• Have an understanding of good governance and some governance experience, and are able to contribute on the wide range of governance issues that the Board may address;
• Have a reasonable understanding of the developmental and theological issues relating to Tearfund and a strong commitment to justice for people living in poverty.

Person Specification:

• Proven experience in digital strategy and transformation, including areas  such as digital innovation in fundraising and development work, agile transformation, service design, data transformation, and horizon scanning  future trends.
• Ability to communicate complex digital concepts in an accessible way, fostering a culture of shared digital responsibility across the board.
• A strong understanding of the ethical and social implications of digital innovations, ensuring that Tearfund’s digital strategies remain consistent with our Christian values and commitment to justice.
• The ability to communicate complex digital concepts effectively to non- specialists, fostering a collaborative and inclusive governance environment.
• Desirable: Strong knowledge of risk management, cybersecurity, and disaster recovery planning, with a track record of implementing effective strategies in these areas.

Further Information
For comprehensive information about Tearfund, the role responsibilities and the person we are looking for, please download the Candidate Information Document.

How to Apply
If you are passionate about joining Tearfund and believe you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please apply with the following:

• An up-to-date CV
• A supporting statement of no more than 2 sides of A4, detailing why you would like to be considered, your relevant experience and expertise and what you think you can bring to the role, and confirmation that you can affirm Tearfund's statement of faith.

All applications are being handled by our recruitment partner, Trustees Unlimited (part of the Russam group). This is a global search.

All applications should be sent to Trustees Unlimited.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Melissa Baxter, Managing Partner - Charities.

Closing date for applications: Friday 21st March 2025
Interviews with Tearfund: Early April 2025 (date tbc)