Fundraising research volunteer volunteer volunteer roles in Manchester

What will you be doing?

Candela is a volunteer-run nonprofit. We're growing our funding base in 2026, and this role is about making that happen. Working alongside our directors, you will have the opportunity to:

Sponsorship and funding:

• Identify and approach potential sponsors, starting with companies whose values or sector align with our mission: we teach physics through VR experiences including solar energy and fusion, so there's a natural fit with energy, renewables, and sustainability companies
• Research and apply for relevant grants, particularly in education, STEM access, and social impact
• Help develop and refine our sponsorship packages and pitches for different audiences
• Develop and manage a funding pipeline

Partnerships and relationships:

• Develop relationships with companies who could support us through funding, equipment donations, or employee volunteering
• Explore partnerships with organisations in the energy and sustainability sector who may have CSR budgets or outreach programmes aligned with what we do
• Help us build credibility and visibility with potential supporters

Note: As we're a small team, you'll have real ownership over this area. You can shape the approach based on your own experience and networks.

What are we looking for?

• Experience in fundraising, business development, partnerships, sponsorship, or grant writing - whether professional or through voluntary/community work
• Confidence approaching organisations and building relationships, particularly at a corporate or institutional level
• Strong written communication since you'll be drafting proposals, emails, and applications
• Someone who can commit roughly 3–7 hours per week, with flexibility around your schedule
• Passion for education, equity in STEM, or making technology accessible to young people

Nice to have: a background in energy, renewables, or sustainability, but this isn't essential. What matters most is your ability to build relationships and secure support.

What difference will you make?

By leading on this, you'll be directly contributing to our goals to:

• Educate students aged 14–18 on the real-world applications of physics using VR
• Increase equitable access to super-curricular STEM activities in disadvantaged communities
• Show young people that physics can lead to exciting careers beyond academia

MARINElife is a science charity that conducts cetacean and seabird research and monitoring

by gathering information of key marine species so they can be better protected.  For over 30 Years, we have carried out research, educational and outreach work on whales, dolphins, seabirds and other marine animals in the oceans of North-west Europe. We also provide relevant, robust and up-to-date information to those working for the sustainable future of our oceans.

The vital work is done in partnership with a wide range of sponsoring bodies from ecotourism through to research institutes and shipping companies. Our goal is to help conserve marine animals and to raise awareness of the threats they face by engaging the public and policymakers.

Everyone here has a passion for the marine environment. Our Trustees play a key role and are responsible for the oversight and governance of the charity, including ensuring the charity has the strategy to deliver its aims. They work as a team on the MARINElife Board of Trustees and also take a hands-on lead on specific topics as required.

Day- to- day operation of the charity is carried out by a small and dedicated team. They work with an enthusiastic community of volunteers and supporters, who survey the seas and deliver the data that forms our important contribution to marine science and conservation.

We currently have three exciting opportunities for Trustees to join us who, in addition to a passion for the marine environment, have the skills to contribute to governance of the charity and deliver our ambitious strategic plan. In addition to general Trustee duties, we are specifically seeking Trustees who have the ability to take the lead in the areas of:

· Digital Communications and Technology

· Fundraising

Our Trustee with the Digital Communications & Technology Brief will additionally take responsibility for supporting development of the Website and social media channels, the development of relevant strategy and policies on behalf of the Board, and giving guidance and support to staff, volunteers, and MARINElife’s partners. 

Our Trustee with the Fundraising Brief will additionally take responsibility for engagement with stakeholders and potential funding bodies to help the Board of Trustees maximise fundraising and resourcing opportunities to sustain and strengthen the charity.

What We’re Looking For:

For the Trustee Digital Communications & Technology - experience and expertise in communications technology to support MARINElife’s existing communications team, and to ensure that technologies used are fit for the purpose of delivering MARINElife’s digital content. You will advise the Board on website and social media communications capability and ensure the positive impact of our communications. Experience of Krystal Web Hosting for Charities and Wordpress is desirable.

For the Trustee Fundraising - experience and expertise in Fundraising to ensure MARINElife Income sources are fit for the purpose and experience in developing and overseeing the application of fundraising policies to enable the delivery of the charity’s objectives.

We require all our Trustees to be:

o Passionate about the marine environment and to be able to enthuse our mission.

o Strategic thinkers and clear communicators with an ability to stand back and see the bigger picture and to think about what is best for the Charity as a whole

o Enthusiastic contributors, able to work effectively with others as part of a team and willing to play an active role in the development of the Charity

Previous Board or Trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds with a passion for the environment who have the experience that we are looking for to strengthen our Board.

The Trustee role is voluntary; the time requirement will vary but will require on average a one day a month commitment including Quarterly Trustee board meetings.

Closing date for applications is 09/04/26. If you would like an informal discussion about this opportunity, please get in touch.

VOLUNTEER POSITION – Grants Assistant

Hope and Vision Communities is a small charity based in Reading providing supported, move-on accommodation for people who have successfully completed residential rehabilitation.  We have a Christian ethos, where everyone can be loved and accepted with a sense of belonging, with the hope and opportunity of a new life. We are growing to expand who we can help to other geographical areas, as well as working on opening a women’s service.    

Growing our services means that we also need to grow our fundraising income, and to help reach this, we are looking for a skilled volunteer who could help us increase our grant submissions. The role will support the Trusts and Grants Fundraiser in managing a regular flow of grant applications to Trusts and Foundations.

Key Responsibilities

 •  Research and apply for grants and funding opportunities already identified in our CRM system - this could be potentially 3 applications a week where you prepare a customised case for support to be sent out to a funder

Key Skills and Qualifications

 •  Experience in using Microsoft Sharepoint for remote working

 •Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to inspire and engage diverse audiences.

 •  Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.

Hope and Vision Communities is a small charity based in Reading providing supported, move-on accommodation for people who have successfully completed residential rehabilitation.  We are growing to expand who we can help to other geographical areas, as well as working on opening a women’s service.    

Growing our services means that we also need to grow our fundraising income, and to help reach this, we are looking for a skilled volunteer who could help us take our communications to the next level. The role will support the Trusts and Grants Fundraiser with a focus on managing the charity’s social media posts; updates to the website and supporting event admin.

Key Tasks:

• Scheduling audience-specific, engaging and shareable content in different formats 

• Regularly posting across our social media platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook) and monitoring engagement to increase our following 

• Creating call to actions to increase our Mailchimp mailing list 

• Book attendance at networking and fundraising events

• Help us with copy writing for the press, fundraising tools and internet site. 

Key Skills:

• Comfortable in using digital comms tools such as mailchimp; wordpress; eventbrite; canva 

• Experienced in using social media such as Facebook; Instagram; LinkedIn 

• Able to research social media management tools such as Buffer 

• A confident copywriter who can write for different comms channels 

• Confident communicator with strong organisational skills

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

EXPERIENCE 

Relevant experience using digital communications tools and creating engaging content 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES 

Ability to present written and verbal information clearly, accurately and to a standard appropriate for external presentation and communication 

Ability to work well within a team and independently 

Understanding of issues faced by those recovering from addiction 

Demonstrated commitment to the vision, mission and values of the organisation 

You will be supported to succeed and gain real workplace experience with a great group of people and the chance to make a real difference to the people in recovery we support.   

MAIN PURPOSE: 

• To support the comms/fundraising team with communication and events. 

• Help us increase our outreach in the communities and beyond, build a group of supporters and regular donors.

Estimated need for the charity: 

Roughly 4-6 hours per week, whenever is most convenient for you. For example, 3 hours, two days a week. You will be working mainly remotely from home, although volunteers are very welcome to work from our offices in Hare Hatch. You must have access to your own laptop and secure internet connection. 

CutOff Recycle

We convert human hair waste into organic fertilizers for sustainable agriculture.

Grant Writer

About Us

CutOff Recycle is a Tanzania-based circular economy startup transforming human hair waste into organic fertilizers for smallholder farmers. We’ve diverted over 4 tons of waste from landfills and created income opportunities for 350+ individuals.

Role Overview

We are looking for a passionate Grant Writer to help us unlock funding opportunities and scale our environmental and social impact globally.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and identify relevant grants (climate, agriculture, circular economy, ESG)
• Write and submit compelling grant proposals
• Support fundraising strategy and documentation
• Maintain a database of funding opportunities and deadlines

What We’re Looking For

• Strong writing and research skills
• Experience (or interest) in grant writing or fundraising
• Passion for sustainability, climate, or social impact
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

What You’ll Gain

• Real-world experience in climate finance
• Contribution to a high-impact African startup
• Recommendation letter + portfolio work
• Potential for long-term paid engagement

Minimum Hours per Week:

4-6 hours per week

Duration:

3-5 months

About the Role

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. and our mission is to increase inclusion and representation for disabled families across society. We offer a variety of services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails, and more.

We are looking for volunteers to help us apply for and secure funding to support our valuable work. This role can be done remotely, with no fixed rota, and the amount of time you give is flexible.

Who Are We Looking For?

• Interested in fundraising or securing funding

• May have experience in the community or charity sector

• Legal or corporate background, or studying law or similar subjects

• Willingness to learn, motivated, and proactive

• Organised and detail-oriented

• Positive attitude and collaborative

What Do We Expect?

• Willingness to undertake our virtual training programme at a time convenient to you

• Have a basic DBS check (preferably on the update system) or be willing to complete one with us

• Sign our volunteer contract (we are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments if needed)

• A positive and inclusive attitude toward disability and illness

What Can You Expect?

• A supportive, kind, and nurturing team that values its volunteers

• Flexibility – contribute at times that suit you

• Supportive approach to accessibility and accommodations

Benefits of Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C.

• Make a tangible difference in your community

• Develop skills in fundraising, research, and grant applications

• Enhance your CV and demonstrate reliability to future employers

• Explore new areas of interest and take on additional tasks if desired

• Build confidence while contributing to meaningful work

Volunteer Bid Writer – Children With Voices

Position Overview:

Children With Voices, a dynamic and community-driven charity committed to supporting vulnerable individuals and families, is seeking a motivated and skilled Volunteer Bid Writer. This role is instrumental in securing funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to ensure the continuous growth and success of the charity's initiatives.

Responsibilities:

1. Research and Identify Funding Opportunities:

  - Conduct thorough research to identify potential funding sources, grants, and partnership opportunities aligned with Children With Voices' mission and projects.

2. Proposal Development:

  - Collaborate with the charity's leadership team to gather information on projects and programs requiring funding.

  - Develop compelling and well-articulated grant proposals, ensuring alignment with donor guidelines and requirements.

  - Craft persuasive narratives that effectively communicate the impact of Children With Voices' activities.

3. Grant Application Submission:

  - Prepare and submit grant applications within specified deadlines, adhering to all application guidelines and requirements.

  - Maintain accurate records of submitted proposals, deadlines, and communication with funding bodies.

4. Relationship Building:

  - Establish and maintain positive relationships with potential donors, grant-making organisations, and other stakeholders.

  - Engage in effective communication to convey the charity's mission and project goals.

5. Collaboration and Coordination:

  - Work closely with the fundraising team and project managers to gather necessary information for proposals.

  - Collaborate with other team members to ensure the integration of programmatic and financial data in grant applications.

Qualifications:

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

- Previous experience in grant writing, proposal development, or related fields is desirable.

- Strong research skills to identify relevant funding opportunities.

- Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.

- Detail-oriented with strong organisational and project management skills.

- Passion for the mission and values of Children With Voices.

Time Commitment:

Flexible, with an estimated commitment of 5-10 hours per week.

Location:

This role can be performed remotely, with occasional virtual or in-person meetings as needed.

Benefits:

- Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause and make a positive impact.

- Gain valuable experience in grant writing and fundraising within a charitable organisation.

- Develop and enhance your skills in communication, research, and project coordination.

- Travel expenses are paid and you will have a healthy meal!

Our Mission

Brain tumours do not discriminate, and they do not respect boundaries. They can strike anyone, at any age. And they strike quickly. We understand that taking on a fundraising challenge isn’t as simple as putting one foot in front of the other. Combine the physical challenge with an ambitious fundraising target, taking part for a charity close to your heart and finding time to train, the challenge can feel overwhelming. This is where our Motivational Caller volunteers play a vital role. By offering encouragement, reassurance and a listening ear, they empower fundraisers to reach their goals!

How can you help?

To ensure our fundraisers receive the best possible support, we like to give each of them a call ahead of their challenge event to wish them good luck and offer encouragement. With hundreds of fundraisers taking part, we rely on the support of our volunteers to help make these calls possible.

This is what your volunteer role will look like:

• The Events team will provide clear, step-by-step instructions to help you log into our telephone system from the comfort of your own home. This usually takes around 10 minutes and you’re very welcome to do this alongside a member of staff via a Teams call if you’d prefer extra support.

• You’ll receive a password-protected spreadsheet containing a list of fundraisers allocated to you. Calls can be made at a time that suits you, during the week or two leading up to each challenge event.

• We will provide you with all the information you need including a script to follow and frequently asked questions so that you feel confident to make calls to our fundraisers.

• After each call, you’ll simply update the spreadsheet with any key notes or feedback.

What impact will you have?

By calling our fundraisers, you’ll create a personal connection with members of our community and help them feel recognised, valued and supported for the incredible efforts they’re making. By helping fundraisers reach the start line feeling supported and inspired, you’ll play a vital role in maximising the funds raised for The Brain Tumour Charity, directly contributing to life-changing support services and vital research for the future.

We are looking for:

As part of our volunteer team you will be enthusiastic, friendly and willing to chat to our fundraisers about the event they are taking part in. We need you to have:

• Great verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• A friendly telephone manner
• General interest in The Charity and/or our fundraising events
• Access to the internet, preferable through a secure Wi-Fi source
• Basic IT skills, including using the Microsoft Authenticator App and Excel.
• Access to a laptop or computer (preferred)

What can you gain from volunteering?

• You’ll have the opportunity to develop your communication and listening skills through one-to-one conversations with our fundraisers.

• You’ll develop an understanding of how the Events team at The Charity operates.

• You’ll help the Events team raise more than £3.9 million a year, helping fund life-changing support and pioneering research.

Time commitment

We’ll need your help in the week or two leading up to each of our Challenge events throughout the year. The role is very ad-hoc and flexible, so you’ll be free to make the phone calls at a time to suit you within those weeks. Our busiest times of year are Spring and Autumn!

All phone calls will need to be carried out between 10am – 4pm on weekdays only. This is a remote role.

Practical considerations

You will receive a full induction to The Brain Tumour Charity and any specific training for the role, as well as ongoing direction from one of the team, who will be your key contact. Volunteers must be over 18. The Brain Tumour Charity is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals belonging to minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented communities. We encourage volunteers to claim for any reasonable expenses that are incurred in the course of their volunteering with The Charity. Find out more in our Volunteer Expenses Policy. If we receive a high volume of applications, we may close the role early, so we’d encourage you to apply at your earliest opportunity.

Need support with the application process?

We are committed to being inclusive and recognise that there may be a number of ways we could support you through the application process. If there’s any adjustments we can make to help you fully engage in the process, don’t hesitate to let us know by getting in touch with the Volunteering Team.

Grants from charitable trusts and foundations are an essential source of funding for community organisations working with deaf children, young people and their families. This support allows communities to develop work that meets the needs of deaf children and young people. With your knowledge of grants and persuasive writing skills, you’ll help support communities to research and submit life-changing funding bids.

About you

• Aged 18 years and over

• Knowledge of potential funding sources both locally and nationally

• Ability to volunteer independently from home under your own initiative

• Well organised with good attention to detail

• Proactive and reliable

• Confident user of Microsoft packages and databases

What you will do

• Support community groups and organisations to identify and win new sources of funding

• Research trusts and foundations (both locally and nationally) that may support work in communities

• Prepare information about funders including deadlines and criteria for applications

• Develop links with funders and share information

• Work with organisations to write compelling applications that meet the required conditions

• Understand the boundaries of the role and ask for support where appropriate

What will you gain from the role?

Other volunteers have told us that training and volunteering has given them:

• Increased confidence and new skills

• A broader understanding of childhood deafness and the issues faced by families

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of families, children and young people. You will be asked to complete a self-disclosure form, provide references, and complete our essential training.

• A sense of achievement by making a positive difference

Support and training
We will provide you with:

• Basic training to help keep yourself, others, and data safe

• Feedback on the funding bids to which you contribute and their outcomes

• A named point of contact at the National Deaf Children’s Society

• Reimbursement of agreed expenses such as travel costs

• Clear information about what to do and who to contact if you are worried about something

This Role Builds Strategic Alliances That Multiply Impact

At Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C., building sustainable partnerships with businesses and organisations is central to our mission. The Corporate Sponsorship and Partnerships Officer ensures that our vision connects with external supporters who share our values and want to contribute meaningfully to systemic change. You will identify, cultivate, and manage relationships that provide financial support, in-kind contributions, and strategic collaborations, helping the C.I.C thrive while maintaining ethical and values-aligned partnerships. This is not a transactional sales role. It is a strategic, high-impact, and relationship-focused role critical to the C.I.C’s sustainability.

Why This Role Matters

• Corporate partnerships and sponsorships:
• Provide vital funding to expand CIC programmes
• Enable community projects, events, and campaigns
• Strengthen credibility and visibility in the broader ecosystem

Without this role, potential opportunities for collaboration, funding, and influence could be lost. With it, the CIC can scale its impact ethically and strategically.

Purpose of the Role

This role exists to:

• Research, identify, and approach potential corporate partners and sponsors
• Develop partnership proposals and sponsorship packages aligned with CIC priorities
• Manage relationships with sponsors, ensuring transparency, alignment, and mutual benefit
• Support the Fundraising Director in building strategic alliances that amplify impact
• Ensure all corporate engagements uphold CIC values, trauma-informed practices, and anti-exploitative principles
• You are the connector that turns shared values into actionable support.

About the role:

To create, manage, and optimise content and communications that engage donors and the community, ensuring consistent messaging, ethical standards, and alignment with campaigns and organisational values.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential / Highly Valued Experience

• Experience in copywriting, communications, journalism, or similar.
• Familiarity with email marketing platforms and newsletter creation (e.g., Mailchimp, CiviCRM, or equivalent).
• Experience developing content for fundraising or donor engagement.
• Social media content creation for organisational impact.
• Strong editing, proofreading, and content planning skills.
• Ability to write clearly, persuasively, and in a tone consistent with the C.I.C’s values.
• Understanding of audience segmentation and personalised communications.
• Awareness of data protection, confidentiality, GDPR, and safeguarding requirements.
• Experience tracking engagement metrics and refining communications based on results.
• Collaborative skills to work with multiple teams and volunteers.
• Ability to adapt content for different audiences, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.

Desirable / Can Be Developed

• Experience producing multi-channel campaigns (email, social media, print).
• Knowledge of design and layout tools for content (e.g., Canva, InDesign).
• Volunteer coordination and mentoring experience.
• Analytical skills to interpret donor response data.

Qualifications

• Formal qualifications not required.
• Equivalent professional experience in communications, content creation, or donor engagement is highly valued.

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Develop compelling, clear, and accurate content for donor and community communications, including:
  • Emails and newsletters
  • Campaign materials and updates
  • Fundraising appeals and donor acknowledgements
• Maintain consistent organisational voice and messaging across all communications channels.
• Collaborate closely with the Fundraising Director to align content with fundraising campaigns and donor engagement strategies.
• Work with the Social Media Team to ensure content complements online campaigns and wider communications.
• Track donor engagement and responses to communications, using feedback to refine messaging, segmentation, and targeting.
• Support segmentation and personalisation of donor communications to maximise relevance and impact.
• Ensure all communications comply with data protection, confidentiality, and ethical standards (GDPR, safeguarding, and organisational policies).
• Adapt content for different community audiences, ensuring accessibility, clarity and inclusivity.
• Proofread, edit, and review communications for accuracy, tone, and impact before distribution.
• Contribute to content planning and calendars, coordinating timing and messaging with campaign schedules.
• Provide guidance and support to other volunteers involved in communications or content creation.
• Maintain documentation of communications templates, processes, and donor engagement metrics.
• Actively participate in team meetings to share insights, track performance, and improve communications strategy.

What You Gain

• Founding-level experience in corporate partnerships and sponsorship strategy
• Leadership exposure in high-stakes negotiation and collaboration
• Opportunity to shape sustainable funding models for a high-impact C.I.C
• Priority consideration for future paid roles
• Direct contribution to community empowerment and systemic change

This role builds strategic influence, partnership management, and ethical fundraising skills.

This role is not suitable if you:

• Prefer transactional sales over relationship building
• Avoid high-responsibility or strategic thinking roles
• Are seeking immediate paid employment
• Are uncomfortable negotiating or representing an ethical, trauma-informed organisation

Important to Be Clear

• This is a volunteer role during the C.I.C’s build phase
• It carries real responsibility for relationship-building and fundraising sustainability
• Paid roles will emerge as funding and sustainability allow

Formal qualifications are not required, but desirable.
Essential equivalent experience mandatory.

Next Steps:

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to:

• A values-led conversation
• A practical discussion about event planning, coordination, and execution

If you believe that well-organised, purposeful events can change communities, and that experiences inspire action, this role is for you.

A Final Word
Partnerships are about values, not logos.

If you know that:

• Ethical funding protects the mission
• Who we align with reflects who we are
• Long-term impact beats short-term gain

We are looking for passionate Animal Advocates to join our Events Team and help raise vital funds for animals in need in their local community. This role is ideal for someone who loves animals, enjoys connecting with people in their community, and wants to make a meaningful difference.

Animal Advocates organise and host small fundraising stalls within their local area, helping to raise awareness and funds to support animals who need our help.

Key Responsibilities

As an Animal Advocate, you will:

• Identify opportunities to hold a fundraising stall in your community at least once a month (for example at markets, fairs, community events or outside local businesses).
• Research and approach local businesses who may wish to donate items that can be sold to raise funds to support our work.
• Encourage people in your community to donate good-quality second-hand items that can be sold on the stall.
• Set up and run fundraising stalls to engage with the public and promote the charity’s work.
• Help raise awareness about the animals we support and the difference donations make.
• Be a vital part of our Events Team.

Support and Resources

As part of our team, volunteers will receive:

• A welcome pack containing everything you need to get started.
• Ongoing support from advice on organising stalls, collecting donations and growing your impact.
• Encouragement to build a small local team of volunteers, if you prefer working as part of a team, to support your activities.

Essential Experience / Skills:

• Passionate about helping animals.
• Friendly and confident speaking to people in their community.
• Organised and motivated to plan local fundraising opportunities.
• Happy to approach local businesses and community members.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.

What You’ll Gain

This is a fantastic opportunity to:

• Help animals in need
• Meet like-minded people
• Become a positive voice for animals in your community
• Develop fundraising, community engagement and leadership skills.

Every stall you organise helps us provide care, safety and a brighter future for animals who need it most.

Closing Date: The job advert will close as soon as suitable candidates have been found. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible!

This Role Transforms Words Into Funding for Change. At Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C., compelling storytelling and clear proposals unlock the resources we need to grow and sustain our mission.
The Grants and Proposal Writer ensures that the CIC secures funding from trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies. You will research opportunities, craft persuasive applications, and maintain documentation for reporting and compliance. Your work directly supports programmes, events, and initiatives that impact vulnerable communities.
This is not a generic writing role—it is strategic, high-impact, and central to CIC sustainability.

This role exists to:

• Research and identify grant and funding opportunities aligned with the CIC’s mission
• Develop high-quality proposals, applications, and supporting materials
• Coordinate with the Fundraising Director and other team members to ensure accurate and compelling submissions
• Maintain records of applications, deadlines, and reporting requirements
• Track outcomes, feedback, and lessons learned to improve future proposals
• Ensure compliance with grant conditions, CIC policies, and ethical fundraising standards

You are the storyteller who converts opportunity into actionable support.

Why This Role Matters

Grants and proposals are a critical revenue stream:

• They provide predictable and scalable funding
• They allow the CIC to expand programmes and reach more communities
• They strengthen credibility with partners, donors, and funders

Without this role, potential funding opportunities may be missed or poorly executed. With it, the CIC can secure long-term resources and scale impact ethically.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential / Highly Valued Experience

• Experience in grant writing or proposal development, producing clear, persuasive, and well-evidenced applications
• Ability to research funding opportunities, assess eligibility, and interpret complex funder guidelines
• Strong written communication and storytelling skills, particularly for social change, community impact, and beneficiary-centred narratives
• Ability to translate programme data and outcomes into measurable impact statements
• Experience preparing or contributing to reports and documentation for funders, including outcomes and financial narratives
• Understanding of, or experience within, non-profit, CIC, charity, or social impact sectors
• High attention to detail with strong organisation and deadline-management skills
• Confidence collaborating with diverse internal stakeholders to gather accurate information
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple applications, and prioritise effectively in a volunteer capacity
• Commitment to the organisation’s mission, values, and principles of equity, inclusion, and integrity

Desirable / Can Be Developed

• Awareness of ethical, legal, and compliance considerations, including CIC requirements and data protection
• Proficiency with basic digital tools (e.g. Word, Google Docs, spreadsheets, shared tracking systems)

Qualifications

• Formal qualifications not required; equivalent professional or voluntary experience is highly valued

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Identify funding opportunities: Proactively source and monitor relevant grant-making organisations, charitable trusts, foundations, statutory bodies, and corporate funders aligned with the organisation’s mission, values, and programmes. Maintain awareness of emerging funding trends and opportunities within the non-profit and social impact landscape.
• Research eligibility and priorities: Analyse funder guidelines, eligibility criteria, strategic priorities, funding cycles, and assessment processes to determine suitability. Provide clear recommendations on which opportunities to pursue and advise on positioning applications for best alignment.
• Write high-quality grant proposals: Develop clear, persuasive, and well-structured grant applications, expressions of interest, and supporting documents. Translate complex programmes and outcomes into compelling narratives supported by evidence, budgets, and measurable impact.
• Collaborate with internal teams: Work closely with programme leads, finance, monitoring and evaluation, and leadership teams to gather accurate data, budgets, case studies, outcomes, and delivery plans. Ensure proposals reflect current activities and realistic capacity.
• Application and deadline management: Maintain an organised and transparent system to track funding opportunities, application stages, deadlines, submission requirements, and reporting obligations. Ensure timely preparation and submission of all materials.
• Compliance and quality assurance: Ensure all grant submissions meet ethical standards, legal requirements, and Community Interest Company (CIC) regulations. Review applications for accuracy, consistency, safeguarding considerations, and data protection compliance before submission.
• Funding tracking and reporting support: Record funding awarded, declined, or pending. Assist with donor acknowledgement, progress updates, and end-of-grant reports by collating outcomes, financial information, and impact evidence in line with funder requirements.
• Continuous improvement: Reflect on feedback from funders, analyse success rates, and contribute to improving grant-writing processes, templates, and organisational funding strategy over time.

Who This Role Is For

This role is suited to someone who:

• Can write persuasively and strategically
• Understands grant-making processes or is willing to learn
• Is organised, deadline-driven, and detail-oriented
• Can translate programme impact into compelling narratives
• Values ethics, transparency, and trauma-informed storytelling

You are a strategic writer and funding advocate

What You Gain

• Founding-level experience in grant writing and fundraising strategy
• Strategic insight into funding cycles, donor expectations, and impact storytelling
• Leadership exposure in shaping sustainable funding models
• Priority consideration for future paid roles
• Direct contribution to community empowerment and CIC growth

This role builds strategic writing, research, and funding acquisition skills.

What This Role Is Not For

This role is not suitable if you:

• Avoid strategic or detailed writing tasks
• Prefer low-responsibility volunteer work
• Are seeking immediate paid employment
• Are uncomfortable representing an ethical, trauma-informed organisation

Important to Be Clear

• This is a volunteer role during the CIC’s build phase
• It carries real responsibility for securing ethical funding
•  Paid roles will emerge as funding and sustainability allow

Next Steps

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to:

• A values-led conversation
• A practical discussion about grant writing, deadlines, and proposal strategy

If you believe that well-crafted proposals can fuel meaningful change, and that writing can create impact beyond words, this role is for you.

A Final Word

Grants are about people, not just funding.
If you know that:

• Trust is built through honesty, clarity, and accuracy
• Ethical compliance and data protection safeguard both funders and communities
• Respectful storytelling strengthens long-term partnerships and impact

…then you already understand the heart of effective grants and proposal writing.

We are asking Local Coordinators to launch Amnesty Human Rights Where You Live initiatives in their area of the East Midlands, helping to bring together local people with an interest in human rights. This is an on-the-ground role promoting activism in your area.

Over the next twelve months, Coordinators would then support their local team to: 

• Raise awareness of and campaign on human rights issues locally. 

• Persuade local politicians to put human rights at the heart of their decisions 

• Engage their local community and ‘change the conversation’ on human rights

• Mark International Human Rights Day on 10 December 

• Set up an Amnesty local group with fundraising to enable future campaigning 

They would also have the chance to team up with other Coordinators to help develop and deliver a human rights campaign for the East Midlands. 

This is a great opportunity to make a difference in your local area on issues you are passionate about while also gaining experience and confidence with a wide range of campaign and communication skills.  

What support would I get? 

Coordinators will be supported at every step by the Amnesty East Midlands Regional Organiser and other staff, who will provide: 

• Support for a local launch meeting for Human Rights Where You Live 

• Training in knowledge and skills 

• 1-1 coaching 

• Organising, campaigning and fundraising resources 

• Face-to-face and online networking with other activists as a regional team. 

My main staff point of contact would be: East Midlands Regional Organiser

All Coordinators would:

• Communicate regularly with the East Midlands Regional Organiser

• Feedback on their activities on a regular and structured basis. 

• Aim to attend a reasonable number of core training and networking sessions online and in-person, depending on individual circumstances. 

What skills and knowledge are needed? 

• Some knowledge of your local area in the East Midlands. 

• Good written and oral communications skills 

• Experience of team-working 

• Basic IT competency (email, word processing, etc.) and internet access 

Experience of campaigning is always welcome but not essential – we find that people often have skills from something else they have done that would be very helpful for the role. 

How much time is needed? 

We would estimate around 2-3 hours a week would be the average, although there may be some periods where more or less commitment is needed. We’d ask that you commit to your local Human Rights Where You Live project for at least one year, although we recognize that people’s circumstances do change. 

We also understand that this role may need to fit around your family, studies, caring or other commitments.  

Any other requirements? 

Coordinators would need to be living in the East Midlands and unlikely to move in the next 12 months. We welcome interest from students at East Midlands universities. 

We would ask that any Coordinator be at least 18. However, if you are under 18 but would still like to get involved in Amnesty, please do get in touch to find more about our youth groups. 

We welcome interest from people who are already volunteering with another community or campaign group with an interest in human rights, and who are interested in doing a local Human Rights Where You Live project as a collaboration between Amnesty and that group. 

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

Job description

Quilombo UK is looking for a Bid Writer (Grant & Funds), who loves to face work challenges; to join their growing team.

The Bid Writer (Grant & Funds) will play a critical role by assisting the manager to prepare the proposal that helps the organization to further develop and establish.

This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; love to 'give back to their community'. The role is for you if you are looking for flexibility and autonomy. Where necessary specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Apart from writing proposals, you will also be reviewing and editing previously written content wherever necessary.
• Working with other team members to produce bid responses and writings
• Helps in writing funding applications for the varied projects that we run in order to meet our organisational objectives.
• Also helps in presentations and all supporting documentation.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• You must be based in the UK
• You will need to have good written skills
• Able to write effective, concise and compelling content
• You will be self-starting and willing to research and look for new funding opportunities that match our aims and objectives;
• Ability to work on tight deadlines
• Well organized, proactive and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
• Able to speak confidently with a variety of stakeholders.
• Good time-management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and excel.
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.

The volunteering program with Quilombo UK requires a minimum of 16 weeks of commitment. We are looking for someone who can offer 12 hours a week, Monday - Friday (2 times a week).

Please note that this is a volunteering unpaid role.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Benefits: Work from home

Experience:

• Technical Writing: 2 years (preferred)

Work Location: Remote