Home Start Volunteer Volunteer Roles in Bristol

Sense Virtual Buddying volunteers make a real difference to supporting young people and adults who may be lonely or isolated.

Sense matches volunteers with disabled people to meet for an hour a week on Zoom or over phone. Our volunteers have spent thousands of hours with their buddies — learning new skills, having fun, and forming fantastic friendships. Sense matches each volunteer with someone who has similar interests, to make sure you have a great time. You and your buddy choose a time that suits you, and you can decide what activities you’d like to do together.

The Role of a Virtual Buddy

Sense matches each volunteer with someone who has similar interests to ensure you’ll have lots of fun together. Once matched with a buddy, you will get to know each other remotely via video calls and phone calls.

You’ll arrange weekly sessions and plan fun things to do together – what this looks like will be inspired by your mutual interests. You could be gaming, doing arts and crafts, playing music, seed planting – there are so many possibilities! We will provide you with weekly themed activities to help to support you in planning your interactions with your buddy.

We’ll also keep in touch with you to ensure you have all the support you need.

The programme is open to all volunteers who are 16 and over. You don't need to have previous experience volunteering or caring for disabled people. We welcome people from all backgrounds and with all interests.

Want to find out more? Every month we host an information session on Zoom for our Virtual Buddying volunteers and those who are thinking of getting involved.

What we can Offer You

Before you start your volunteering role, we’ll make sure that you’ve had the training you need to feel confident. This will be delivered online and via video call.

While you’re volunteering with us as a Virtual Buddy, you’ll get:

• A written account of your volunteering and references if required
• Reimbursement of pre-agreed expenses

Volunteering as a Sense Virtual Buddy is a great opportunity to develop new skills and get to know new people whilst making a real difference to a person’s life. 

Who we are Looking For

We need positive, empathetic volunteers who are passionate about supporting people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. We are looking for volunteers who are great communicators and who are friendly, enthusiastic, positive and ready to have fun!

We’re also always looking for volunteers who have knowledge or experience of British Sign Language (BSL) and/or other communication methods like Makaton.

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

We’d love for you to consider joining us as a Sense Virtual Buddy!

This is an exciting opportunity to be a hands-on trustee at branch level, helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things.  With your expertise and support we will achieve so much! 

We need volunteers who have expertise in Legal and GDPR matters to help us manage the Branch effectively and within legal limitations. You will get new skills and experience whilst enabling us to help more animals. 

Overview of the Branch Trustee opportunity

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a legal background, who could devote their time to volunteer as a trustee at our Preston & District Branch and support us with GDPR compliance.

Alongside passing on your expertise, this opportunity will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental, alongside fellow trustees, in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.  As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a bi-monthly committee meeting lasting around 2 to 3 hours (virtual meetings are an option). However, the commitment may vary depending on your availability,  and if you decide to take on additional duties.Trustee do not need to live within the branch boundaries but occasional travel to Branch sites may be required from time to time.

About the National RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering. Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Preston & District Branch

Over 80% of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which are run by staff & volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

The Preston & District Branch is part of a network of  140  branches, and one of only 8 in the North of England with an animal centre. We are a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area and engaging with the local community. Our mission is to provide safe homes to abandoned, neglected or abused animals, to nurse them back to health, rehabilitate them and find them their forever home.

RSPCA Preston is a well established branch with approximately 20 members of staff and 75 volunteers across 4 locations. The main activity of our branch is providing a rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming centre within the Preston area (close to JCN 31 of the M6). To continue helping animals in need we also operate 3 charity shops in Longridge, Chorley and Penwortham which bring in a regular income to keep our animal centre open. 

Take a look at our website to see a little more about the work we do.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Legal and GDPR

• Assist the Branch in ensuring that activities are GDPR compliant and reviewing and updating the Branch processing activities register.
• Support the Branch in developing and updating Branch policies, particularly the Branch privacy notice and internal data protection policy, to make sure they are compliant.
• Support the Branch when liaising with external specialist providers such as HR and health and safety specialists. 
• The Branch may occasionally enter into new leases with regards to its charity shops; so, liaising with external specialists for advice if it does not fall under your area of expertise. 
• To assist the Branch when developing new schemes, such as providing welfare assistance to those on low incomes, to ensure any new schemes are GDPR compliant.

Core Branch Trustee responsilities

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside legal and GDPR compliance experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action. 

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected at our AGM.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee

For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee, and to ensure it is the right decision for you there is some information on the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees, and we have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch! 

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.   

Volunteer role - Cat Fosterer

Volunteer manager - Volunteer Coordinator

Where you will be based - Home

Why we want you:

We are the RSPCA and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. Our volunteers are incredible, they play an essential role in helping us carry out our important animal welfare work every day.

Our fosterers play a vital role by providing a temporary home for animals that are in the care of the RSPCA, either during rehabilitation or whilst they are waiting for a suitable permanent home to be found.

You could be fostering an animal for just a few weeks, or it could be a longer-term placement for several months or more.

What you will be doing:

• Providing care and suitable housing in a safe environment for cats while they are in foster care in accordance with Society policies and guidelines
• Feeding, watering, providing enrichment and grooming cats (as appropriate)
• Keeping accurate records of expenditure on fostered animals, via receipts and completed expense forms
• Completing records/daily observations in relation to behaviour and health and liaising with your Foster Coordinator when needed
• For cats ready for rehoming: raising awareness about animals in your care with the hope of rehoming them (including sharing images and videos with your local contact/team)
• For cats' subject to an RSPCA case: using discretion (where needed) if the animal has specific needs or reasons for being in your care
• Offering a separate room to keep the cat/s in and your family/household must be fully supportive (and checked/confirmed that there are no cat allergies within the household)
• Transporting your foster cat for appointments, vet consultations, etc

The skills you need:

• Volunteers must be aged 18 or over
• Previous experience of fostering would be beneficial, and experience caring for cats is essential
• If you have existing cats, it is preferred that they be spayed/neutered and vaccinated (unless there are medical reasons why they can't be), but this can be discussed on a case by case basis
• If in rented accommodation, permission from the landlord must be obtained

What's in it for you:

• Meet like-minded people and get to know more about the work of the RSPCA
• Add an important animal welfare role to your CV
• A great induction and training relevant to your role
• Support from our local and national teams
• You’ll be making a huge difference to the welfare of animals

Disclaimer:

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and introductory period. Before you can start volunteering you’ll need to complete our suite of eLearn training including a simple online Health & Safety assessment.

Some cats simply don’t respond well to cattery life becoming stressed that affects their health and wellbeing, whereas they thrive in a quiet loving foster home. Kittens, with and without their mums, often need foster homes, until they are weaned and old enough for permanent adoption. Some cats looking for foster homes are subjects of an ongoing criminal investigation, so are in our care whilst the case progresses. With these cats we will not know how long the case will take to resolve and, occasionally, animals may have to be returned to their owner, in accordance with a court ruling.

As a cat fosterer you will play a vital role in looking after the cats in our care until their case is resolved or they find a new home. You'll be providing all the daily care for cats/kittens in your own home, ensuring a safe environment that will cater for their individual (sometimes complex) needs. RSPCA staff will match cats/kittens with foster homes, and will give you all the information and support that you need for each fostered animal. The time commitment for each foster placement can vary from a couple of weeks to many months, with support provided to accommodate holidays and emergencies.

This is a great opportunity to make a real difference to the welfare of cats and kittens in our care.

What is required:

• Be able to transport the cat/kittens to vet appointments and the RSPCA establishment as required.
• Have time to spend with them or be around them.
• A spare room/space at home for fostering a cat is ideal, although not essential (they will not be allowed outside of your home environment, so will need a specific space)
• Have lots of love, time and patience to give the animal whilst they are with you.

If your application is successful, you'll be asked to record and upload a short video, or take some photos of your home environment to accompany your volunteer profile. A home visit may also be required prior to and/or during your time fostering. You’ll get online access to all the necessary training for your role, and we ask you to keep this up to date. You will also receive training from the RSPCA establishment that your foster animal is from, and they will provide you with a point of contact and ongoing support, training and advice. We have a suite of wellbeing resources available and can make reasonable role adjustments to support you in your volunteering.

VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISER - RSPCA Middlesborough, Teesside & District Branch

Are you passionate about helping animals in your community? Would you like to do something meaningful with your free time? Do you live in Teesside? Then we would love to hear from you! The RSPCA needs people like you so we can continue to improve animal welfare in Middlesbrough and Teesside.

We are looking for volunteers to support local fundraising activities. By raising more funds, we can support more animals and, by investing a small amount of your time, you can make a real difference. Funds raised are used for animal welfare programs so you can directly see how your efforts make an impact. You won’t be on your own. You’ll be joining a team of motivated people who use their skills and love of animals to do something meaningful and have fun at the same time. 

WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING?

You’ll be helping to organise and carry out fundraising activities within your community. If you are an experienced fundraiser, then we’d love for you to share that experience and your ideas - and you’ll get a lot of freedom to make your ideas come alive. If this is new to you, that’s no problem - you’ll work with our team to carry out fundraising projects and gain new experiences.

We have many different activities which can be matched to your skills and availability. So, whether you have a lot of time, or just a little, we can help you make a difference. Whether you’d prefer to volunteer from home, or join us at a wide range of events, you can play your part in raising the funds to help animals who need your support.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Whatever your background or skills there is a role for you. If you are an experienced fundraiser, you can lead individual projects or co-ordinate a team of fundraisers and see your ideas turn into reality. If you have fund-raised before, that’s fine too - it’s a great place to learn. 

We support every type of animal and we seek every type of person to help us- diversity is our strength.  We are a team, we support each other, value each other and learn from each other and we want other people to join us. We want you to bring your experience and motivation, your problem solving skills and we’ll all share the teamwork to get things done. Together we can make a real difference.

WHAT DIFFERENCE WILL YOU MAKE?

Fundraising is how we generate income, which is then used to support animal welfare. It is at the heart of everything we do, so you will play a critical role. Without fundraising volunteers we cannot support those animals who desperately need our help.

There are lots of benefits to becoming an RSPCA Middlesbrough, Teesside & District Branch Volunteer, these include:

Using your skills to do something useful.

•  Passing on your skills and learning new ones.
•  Gaining real leadership experience.
•  Creating real opportunities to improve animal welfare in your community.
• Access to RSPCA Learning Hub with a wide range of training materials
•  Lead not follow - shape our future direction and make your mark

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

We hope to hear from you and we can’t wait for you to join the team.

Sight loss can be a big deal for many people: It often comes later in life and throws up many challenges. There can be a lot to get your head around and new things to learn. In this role you will help people who have had an initial contact with RNIB by sharing with them relevant information, including available services, ways to connect with others in a similar situation, and opportunities to play a positive role in removing barriers in society. In support of your conversation you will make brief, accurate notes in the customer contact record. In short, you’ll play an important role in helping people on the journey to living well with sight loss. You will join a well-established, friendly team that makes outbound calls to RNIB beneficiaries and supporters. This role can be done from home, with the ability to make calls at times that fit in with your schedule. We’re seeking a minimum commitment of four hours per week, for a period of around six months. Calls can be made between 10am and 7pm. Full training will be given before you start making calls. We are seeking to recruit a group of volunteers that includes some individuals with lived experience of sight loss. How you will be supported in your role Comprehensive training will be given before you start making calls, and support will continue throughout your volunteering. The team you are joining is located across the UK. There are opportunities to connect with other volunteers and colleagues via MS Teams, including social “Kettle catchups”. The team meets twice a year in person, and you will be very welcome to take part.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• You must be aged 18 or over. This opportunity requires two references. You will need a laptop or PC through which you will access an RNIB virtual desktop. Reliable Broadband is needed as calls will be made through your internet connection. You’ll need a quiet and confidential space at home when making calls, so that neither your screen nor conversations are visible / audible to others in your household.

Home based

• This role is home based

Additional location information

• Homebased

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• You will have a friendly, empathetic and non-judgemental disposition and be able to listen well – acknowledging, and building rapport. A sociable nature and the ability to put people at ease are important qualities. You will be confident with IT and will have experience of MS Windows and common software

Dog Fosterer – LU1-LU7 or MK45

Many of the dogs in our care have never experienced life in a loving, family home. Can you help them avoid longer in kennels, providing a calm and caring environment whilst we find them a PAWesome forever home?

As a dog fosterer, you would be supporting the RSPCA in providing our dogs with the safety of your home whilst tending to their welfare needs such as feeding and grooming. In addition to this, by providing a temporary loving environment, you will play a crucial role in a dog’s wellbeing and socialisation, which will significantly improve their chances of successful rehoming.

Once everything is in place, the animal centre will guide you through the fostering process and ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, food, and veterinary care for your fostered dog. The RSPCA is also happy to reimburse any other pre-agreed expenses that you may incur through volunteering for us.

Whilst our dogs are in your foster care, you will:

•  Provide them with care, suitable housing, and a safe environment as per our policies and guidelines.
•  Feed, water, and groom them in line with our advice.
• Transport them to any veterinary appointments if required.
•  Provide them with your time and patience.
• Help us spread the word about the dogs in your care so they might find their forever home quicker.
• Playing and cuddles are also a must as well as a comfy bed! 

What we are looking for in a volunteer Dog Fosterer

•  Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience caring for dogs.
•  You will need a secure garden and plenty of time to spend with our dog.
•  Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.
•  For their wellbeing, our dogs need the whole family to be on board and supportive.
• Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they can’t be so, please let us know if this is the case). 

What we can offer you as a volunteer Dog Fosterer

• You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the dogs in your care.
• Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.
• Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme. 

Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               
It is worth mentioning that our dogs do have different needs as whilst some are ready for rehoming others may require rehabilitation or ongoing medication. Therefore, we also aim to understand your situation and circumstances to ensure that we match you with your perfect foster dog.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Dog fosterers need to live within the Branch Area LU1-LU7 or MK45

You will be put in touch with our dog fostering coordinator who will be able to answer any questions and guide and support you through the process.

Barbara Bus North Wales is a Satellite Branch of The Barbara Bus Fund.  Started in 2009 BBNW operates 4 wheelchair accessible vehicles from bases around North Wales and on Anglesey.  Vehicles are available for loan by wheelchair users who are unable to transfer, and can be used by friends and family who have completed the registration process.

BBNW is recruiting a part-time Coordinator on a voluntary basis.  The role will be based from the candidate's home.

Essential

Fluent in Welsh and English
Self-motivated
Computer literate (MS Office, Access)
Full manual driving licence

Daily Operations

Register new passengers and drivers and enter onto the database
Maintain Access Database
Arrange vehicle demonstrations for new users
Take bookings and keep the diary up to date

Volunteer management

Liaise with volunteers to arrange vehicle servicing and repairs
Support volunteers (3) in their role

Other

Liaise with Head Office
Attend 6-weekly online Committee Meeting
Prepare and circulate management report in advance of meeting
Promote the charity by way of attending events and distributing literature

Please register your interest by contacting the Operations Manager

To apply for the role please send a cover letter and your Curriculum Vitae

Age UK Hillingdon, Harrow and Brent is committed to making later life better for everyone in Hillingdon, Harrow and Brent. We have an active board of Trustees from a range of different backgrounds who continually provide guidance and support to the charity.The Trustee role offers an exciting opportunity to get involved in an engaging, decision making role which contributes to the strategy, financial strategy and day-to-day management of the organisation.

Our existing Board has a diverse range of experience and skills and we are looking to grow and develop these to support the organisation in the future.  We are particuarly interested in hearing from people with experience and/or knowledge of the following areas:

• Financial Management (including investment planning/management accounts) 
• Estate Planning
• Charity Retailing
• Fundraising / Income generation Fundraising

This is not an exclusive list of skills as each new Trustee brings their own valuable skills and experience.  We are keen to develop our Board's diversity and appreciate that the role of a Trustee is new to some people.  If you would like an informal chat about what the role involves please contact us.

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

Do you love trees, woodlands and beautiful homegrown timber?

Woodland Heritage is looking to recruit a Vice Chair and Chair to its trustee board.

You would be joining a dedicated and passionate group of volunteers and a wider staff group who are developing exciting plans for the charity’s future.

Experience of the charity / woodland / forestry / timber / making sectors is helpful but certainly not essential.

We welcome applications from a diverse range of people and we want to listen to your ideas and benefit from your guidance. If you have any questions about this, please do ask.

What is essential is compatibility with the charity’s mission and values and the desire to bring your life’s experiences and skills to the table.

If this isn’t the right time or opportunity for you, do you have someone in mind you could share this opportunity with?

Being a trustee at Woodland Heritage is an engaging, thought provoking opportunity to make a difference. You will receive insight and access to remarkable people, amazing woodlands, fine timbers, beautiful furniture, stunning workshops and so much more.

Woodland Heritage is creating a thriving UK wood culture that benefits our environment, all people and our economy. We do this by championing the good use of home-grown timber from sustainable, productive woodlands for the benefit of present and future generations. Through a combination of demonstration sites, research, education, membership and outreach, we build on the wisdom and skills of the past to weather the challenges of tomorrow.

Put simply: Grow trees. Use wood. For our future.

Time commitment, events and meetings

In addition to bi-monthly trustee meetings, which usually take place virtually and in the evening (though a few times per year these will be in person or hybrid meetings for which reasonable expenses will of course be paid), there will be additional time and involvement required to undertake these roles effectively. The role of chair in particular would suit someone who wants to give several hours of their time per week.

Skills & Experience

There are many ways to be an effective trustee and you can read more about the essentials on the government's website. You may have skills in the following areas:

· Governance

· Finance

· Risk management

· Fundraising and Marketing

· Business

· Forestry & Making

· Culture & People

Supporting you

You will be supported with an initial induction with the staff team. This will be followed by activities to familiarise yourself with the organisation’s activities and your governance role.

Once you have become familiar with these you will be able to get more involved in those things which you find exciting and rewarding.

Along the way you will be supported by the staff team and trustees to make a real difference!

Your application

· Applications close on the 3rd January 2025.

· Week commencing 6th January 2025: We will contact all candidates to inform them of the shortlisting outcome.

· Week commencing the 13th January 2025: virtual meetings will take place to discuss your application and to answer any questions you have.

· Shortlisted candidates will have the opportunity to meet the trustees at a trustee meeting on the 20th January 2025, held online.

· We would be delighted to speak with you at any stage if you have questions or would like to learn more!

Thank you for your interest in becoming a trustee!

Branch Trustee (General Role)
This is an exciting opportunity to be a hands-on trustee at branch level, helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things. With your support and expertise, we will achieve so much!

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long terms aims.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
•  In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Support Specialist write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
•  Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas:

•  Marketing communication including social media, PR, website;
•  Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
•  Local community and supporter relationships;
• Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or
•  Are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

- We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
- Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
- The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
- The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
- A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee
 
You will be joining a small team of experienced trustees who will offer you all the support you need. The position is to be home based, but you need to live in the Branch Area LU1-LU7 or MK45 postcode area.
We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and depending on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Seeking Volunteer Trustees to join in the starting up of a Peace Charity in Manchester, UK.

- This is an unpaid volunteer Trustee position & does not pay expenses. The charity is only just starting, when the charity is more established we can consider paying expenses for volunteer roles, but currently at the present time the role is unpaid with no expenses. If the charity takes off, we can have a board meeting about paying volunteer expenses.

- We need a Board of Trustees before we can apply to the Charities Commission for England & Wales for registration, we intend to register as a Charity in 2025 after we have a solid and diverse Board of Trustees in place.

The founder will be Cindy Baxter, Trustees that join now will be considered co-founders as well as Trustees given they would help to set the Charity up from scratch.

Job Summary
The Trustee plays a pivotal role in the governance and strategic direction of the organisation. This position involves overseeing the management of resources and ensuring that the organisation operates in accordance with its mission and objectives. The Trustee will work collaboratively with other board members to enhance the organisation's impact, engage in fundraising activities, and foster positive relationships within the community.

Duties

• Attend regular board meetings and actively participate in discussions regarding the organisation's strategy and policies.
• Provide oversight on financial management, ensuring that funds are used effectively to achieve organisational goals.
• Engage in fundraising efforts, utilising personal networks and community connections to support financial sustainability.
• Assist in marketing initiatives to promote the organisation's mission and programmes to a wider audience.
• Foster positive public relations by representing the organisation at events and within the community.
• Collaborate with staff to develop programmes that align with organisational objectives and community needs.

ABOUT THE PROPOSED CHARITY:

The International Society for the Promotion of Permanent & Universal Peace (International Peace Society - IPS for short) will be an inclusive and ethical Society created in the UK in Manchester, the 'City of Peace', to further Domestic & International Peace initiatives. Especially to in future, if the Society becomes successful & raises enough funds, employ professionals, in particular, of the Social Sciences - particularly those skilled in Peace & Conflicts, Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, Humanitarian efforts, Domestic & Family Abuse, International aid, International Diplomacy & many others. The Society, if successful, will have other jobs & volunteers also of all types of skills & abilities relevant to the Society's aims as well. The founder of this 2024 Society is Cindy Baxter, a Social Scientist & Registered Social Worker in England with 8 years experience in Safeguarding (Child Protection) across two countries (Australia & the UK), with studies in Psychology, Sociology, History & a Social Work Masters Degree that included a community development course. Cindy has an enormous amount of experience of doing paperwork for Government, experience of working with asylum seeking children, has experience of travelling to other countries & interacting with people from different cultures & Cindy is also a descendent of the Peace Family Line - her Great-Grandfather is Robert J C Peace who was born in Battersea in London in 1921. Cindy will go on to study a PhD in Social Sciences part-time whilst helping to run the Society alongside other founders & trustees. If the Society became successful, & enough funds were raised, an employment call would then go out to locate a suitable Peace President for the Society & other essential staff.

At the moment however the Society is at the very beginning stages where Trustees are needed to help start the Society, help with fundraising & apply to register the charity with the Companies House & the Charities Commission as a Charitable Not-For-Profit Company (Limited by Guarantee) in England in 2025.

There would be two main aspects to the Society:

- Domestic Peace & International Peace

CHARITABLE PURPOSES:

- The advancement of human rights, conflict resolution or reconciliation or the promotion of religious or racial harmony or equality and diversity

- The advancement of health or the saving of lives (saving lives by preventing wars, ending wars, de-escalating the negative impacts of wars & by domestic & family abuse assistance)

- The prevention or relief of poverty (where it relates to war or domestic/family abuse/exploitation)

- The advancement of education (Peace Education & Social Sciences)

- The advancement of the arts, culture, heritage or science (The advancement of Social Sciences specifically)

A brief overview - this is not an exhaustive list of everything the Society will aim to do but a general starting point:

The International section of the Society would likely involve forms of overseas aid, focus on diplomacy, encouraging Peace between Nations, spreading messages of peace & peaceful resolution of conflicts, attempts to avert war, especially nuclear war, employing independent Diplomats, etc. Attempting to encourage communities to unite in a spirit of peace, for example by hosting events for the public & the Society's members to attend, such a big peace walks or charity luncheons or charity galas etc. The Society will start in Manchester but if it becomes successful could branch out into other regions of the UK or even into other Countries. The Manchester office where it will start, may in future employ people or enlist volunteers who may work overseas at times as part of their role. The main reason would be to encourage as much as possible conflict/dispute resolution & encourage Nations and differing Nationalities to find diplomatic ways of resolving difficulties in an effort to end wars & prevent new wars/conflict from continuing to occur. Social Scientists, Social Policy graduates and other professionals may also be employed to uncover the deeper reasons behind what is causing specific conflicts/wars in particular regions of the world & give advice on how best to proceed to attempt to end the war/address the underlying problems that are leading to conflict/war.

- support offered to veterans & victims of conflicts/wars including those who are asylum seekers/refugees due to war

- Representing Peace in the North of England

- If the Peace & Justice Project based in London was willing to partner with the IPS we could work in tandem with them, they focus a lot on the Politics of Peace

In terms of Domestic Peace (within the UK) there will be a section of the Society that assists people & families having difficulties with domestic & family abuse or other family problems that are disturbing the peace (e.g. if the Society raised enough funds in future we could hire couple's therapists, domestic abuse specialists or partner with or support local agencies that already specialize in domestic & family abuse)

- support offered to survivors of abuse/neglect/trauma

Other potential aims:

Peace Education, Peace Awareness, Peace initiatives, Humanitarian efforts.

Further aims & purposes of the Society will be discussed in Trustee meetings, we are open to collaborating to discuss the overall aims & purposes of the Charity & how these can be brought into reality. Ultimately we want to have a Charity that helps a lot of people both within the UK & Internationally. This Society is only just starting right now, as such it is not yet registered. The purpose of this advertisement is to recruit Trustees to the Board of Trustees & be able to start the process of having the charity registered once we reach a fundraising goal of £5000.

Seeking to recruit up to a maximum of 11 Volunteer Trustees for the IPS. Applications from people of varied backgrounds, skills & abilities welcomed, including people with disabilities. If you think you have what it takes to be a Trustee for the IPS please apply.

You can access more information about the Trustee role for Charities on the UK Charity Commission website "what is a trustee and how to become one" & "the essential trustee what you need to know what you need to do".

What the IPS needs from you as a Trustee on the Board of Trustees:

- A commitment to act as a volunteer Trustee for the IPS for at least 1 year, however ideally for 3 years or longer

- Time commitment of at least 6 hours per month to join trustee meetings & discussions regarding the founding document & other various administration matters related to setting up a Charity. A virtual option will be provided for meetings for those that wish to work from home.

- Preferred location of Trustees - Greater Manchester - at least 3 of the Trustees need to be based in Greater Manchester or surrounding areas & be able to commute to Manchester Central easily.

However applications from regions outside of Greater Manchester & surrounds will be considered as long as the applicant will commit to either commuting into Greater Manchester for meetings, or commit to joining us virtually. Remote option is available.

You must live in the UK & be legally entitled to volunteer in the UK.

If you are outside of Greater Manchester & surrounds, but live in the UK, please mention this in your CV & indicate whether you are willing to commute into Manchester Central or join regular meetings virtually.

- The IPS values diversity, we encourage applications from persons with diverse backgrounds & with disabilities

- You will need a basic standard of English to apply for this volunteer position

- You must be at least 18 years old to apply for this volunteer position

- Two references required

- Proof of identity & address in the UK

Preferred attributes/values:

- A strong desire to see both domestic & international peace & the motivation & drive to ensure the Charity can start up strong, become a successful charity & become registered

- Integrity, kindness & an ability to work well with others in a team

- Experience in the charity sector, social sciences (including Peace & Conflicts graduates), social care and/or management of a charity/setting up a charity. If you have experience in any or multiple of these areas & are interested please submit an application

Preferred skills/abilities/experience: IPS will need a diverse range of skills & talents on the Board of Trustees. Some skills & abilities we will be seeking are:

- Charity management

- Management of charity finances & fundraising

- Payroll & HR work experience

- IT support for the new website & social media channels

- Business administration

- Experience or vast knowledge of overseas aid, diplomacy and other peace initiatives and efforts (For the International Peace side of the IPS)

- Domestic & family abuse work experience & qualifications (for the Domestic Peace side of the IPS)

- Couples counselling work experience and/or social work dispute resolution & de-escalating conflicts work experience

An applicant who has experience of fundraising & of starting and/or managing a Charity will be highly favoured. Particularly an applicant with experience of International aid & Diplomacy.

If you have skills/talents/abilities which have not been listed above which you believe would contribute beneficially to a role as Trustee for the IPS, in line with the IPS' goals, aims & charitable causes then please describe how your unique skills/abilities/talents will suit a Trustee role for the IPS in your application and this will be considered.

The main criteria is a passion for the cause of peacemaking. If you are passionate about peacemaking and believe you could be a Trustee for the IPS please apply. For those who wish to be a general volunteer for the IPS, another call will go out next year for general volunteers after the Board of Trustees has agreed on the structure of the organisation and completed the founding document.

Please be aware that all applications which proceed onto potential recruitment to Trustee positions with the IPS will be required to undergo DBS checks before being allowed into any Trustee meetings.

Please read the guidance on the UK Government page about who is ineligible to be a Trustee - "Automatic disqualification rules for charity trustees and charity senior positions".

Prospective trustees will be asked to sign a declaration to confirm that they are not disqualified from acting as a charity trustee if successful in the recruitment process.

The likely set up for the Charity will be a Not-For-Profit Charitable Company (limited by Guarantee), this will require registration with the Companies House & The Charities Commission for England & Wales once the charity is able to prove earnings of £5000 or more per year. Please keep this in mind. Trustees will have very limited liability, at maximum £10. Trustees are not expected to contribute money to set the charity up, you do not need to have money to be a Trustee, however having fundraising experience or an ability to talk to others in the general community about the importance of raising money for Peace Initiatives will be essential for at least some of the 11 Trustees that will be recruited. Or have the ability to manage future volunteers (not in Trustee positions, general volunteers) to help them learn or develop the skills to fundraise for the IPS.

Fundraising is an essential part of any Charity & we will need to demonstrate we can raise £5000 annually before we can register our Charity. Applications close on the 15th of January 2025. All applications will be considered as such please do not despair if you haven't heard back before the 15th of January 2025. Interview times will be able to be flexible around the applicants with interviews occuring late January or early February 2025.

You do not need to provide a cover letter alongside CV but if you would like to explain more in your cover letter why this position is for you then you're welcome to provide a cover letter.

This is an exciting opportunity to be both a co-founder & Trustee of the 21st Century version of the International Peace Society!

The 21st Century version of the IPS will be non-denominational and is open to people of all faiths & beliefs including those who are religious and those who are not for example agnostic & athiest. It will be an inclusive society open to all.

Postal Address:

First Floor Swan Buildings 20 Swan Street, City Centre, Manchester M45JU – this is a postal address only. The IPS does not have an office space just yet, this will be a matter that will be discussed during Board Meetings.

 WHO WE ARE

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

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

The three key activities of the foundation are:

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

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

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

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

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

Key Responsibilities:

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

Skills and Experience:

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

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

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

APPLICATION PROCESS

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

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

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

We’re seeking new trustees to join our board. This is an exciting opportunity to help lead Big Leaf Foundation in the next phase of its development and to use your skills and experience to make a lasting difference to the lives of displaced young people in Surrey.

We are seeking individuals with:
o commitment to our vision, mission and values;
o excellent teamwork and leadership skills and effective decision-making;
o willingness to commit time and effort to the role;
o good, independent judgement, strategic vision and ability to communicate ideas;
o history of impartiality, fairness and commitment to promoting equality and diversity.

We particularly need individuals with skills and experience in one or more of the following areas:

o charity governance;
o risk management;
o data security and IT;

o diversity and inclusion;
o evaluation and reporting.

The statutory duties of a trustee are to:

o Ensure the organisation complies with its governing document.
o Ensure that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.
o Ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives – the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objectives, no matter how 'charitable' and 'worthwhile' those activities are.
o Contribute actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets. o Safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.
o Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
o Ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
o Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation's funds.
o If the organisation employs staff, to appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor his or her performance.

In addition, with other trustees to hold the charity “in trust” for current and future beneficiaries by:

o Ensuring that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

o Being responsible for the performance of the charity and for its “corporate” behaviour; ensuring that the charity complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.

o Acting as guardians of the charity’s assets, both tangible and intangible, taking all due care over their security, deployment and proper application.

o Ensuring that the charity’s governance is of the highest possible standard.

Trustees should make full use of any specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the board make good decisions and all trustees must adhere to our Trustee Code of Conduct.