Individual Support Volunteer Volunteer Roles in Manchester

As a Business Development Manager you will be the front of the charity by helping to create opportunities when engaging small, medium and large enterprises.  The role will provide effective day-to-day management relating to all aspects of the charity’s set up and operations.

The role will ensure financial sustainability by assisting the CEO, Marketing Lead and fundraisers identify and secure appropriate funding that supports the values of the charity, and to clearly demonstrate and promote the positive impact of the charity. 

What will you be doing?

• To manage all operational activity of the charity according to the strategic direction provided by the CEO and Trustees.
• Where required to undertake aspects of business development including identification of funding opportunities, bid writing and tender submissions.
• To assist the CEO with updating and revising the charity’s business plan and fundraising strategy in accordance with the Trustees’ strategic direction.
• Contacting potential partners to establish rapport and arrange meetings.
• Researching organisations and individuals to find new opportunities.
• Where appropriate attend conferences, meetings, and charity events.
• Develop a growth strategy focused both on financial gain and stakeholders’ satisfaction.
• To undertake any other relevant duties within the overall scope of the role, as requested by the CEO and Trustees of the charity.
• Lobby government and other policy makers on behalf of the charity’s cause or client group.

What are we looking for?

• Bachelor’s degree in business, sales and marketing or related field.
• Highly competent IT skills
• Proven customer service skills
• The ability to prioritise and manager own workload
• Understanding of data protection and confidentiality
• Excellent time management and organisational skills
• Ability to motivate and empower people
• High levels of commitment, reliability and motivation
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to learn quickly and take on tasks outside of current skill set.

Time commitment and expenses:

• 1-3 hours per week, either in or out of office hours.
• We request a minimum commitment of 3 months volunteering.

What difference will you make?

• Share your knowledge and experience.
• Learn new skills.
• Shape how the charity presents itself to service users, stakeholders, funders and the general public.
• Network with a friendly team of people.
• Make a difference to the charity and the lives of others.

Role Description

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of an important departments in our organisation, working with the team on fundraising efforts while gaining valuable experience within Emerge Worldwide. We are looking for an individual with the passion and drive for fundraising, to help the organisation reach our fundraising goals and enable us to achieve the crucial work we do in raising awareness and prevention against sexual exploitation and sex trafficking.

We make an impactful difference in the lives of children, young people, women and professionals as well as organisations and businesses. There has been a 10% increase in sexual exploitation and sex trafficking against children (NSPCC 2022), and 99% of victims in the commercial sex industry are female (Unseen).  We desire to provide free training so as many women and girls are trained, enabling increased protection against this horrific crime. 

As a volunteer fundraiser, you’ll be instrumental in the organisation securing the essential funds that allow Emerge Worldwide to reach more people, including supporting and empowering victims and survivors. Your efforts will directly contribute to us offering services to the most vulnerable people. 

What are we looking for?

We’re seeking volunteers with experience in fundraising, fundraising research to help drive our fundraising efforts and expand our support network, including sponsorship. Any experience in bid writing is desirable. We are also seeking volunteers who have event planning and project planning experience. 

This role will include:

● Researching funding and sponsorship opportunities.

● Exploring additional fundraising opportunities and strategies.

● Developing a simple donor journey and stewardship plan to engage supporters, providing ways to deepen their connection with our charity.

● Assisting in the planning and organisation of fundraising activities and events.

● Reaching out to businesses and companies for potential partnerships and donation opportunities.

● Supporting the promotion of our fundraising initiatives and activities.

● Assisting with online fundraising efforts.

● Contributing creative fundraising ideas to boost engagement and donations.

● Collaborating with our Social Media team to create engaging content and campaigns that promote our fundraising efforts, increase visibility, and inspire community support.

We are looking for volunteers who have:

● A track record in delivering successful fundraising.

● Experience of fundraising in the charity sector is desirable but not essential.

● Experience in planning successful events and activities.

● Good knowledge of the current fundraising landscape and interest in keeping up to date with fundraising trends.

● Reliable, organised with good timekeeping.

● Able to work independently and proactively as well as in a team.

● Clear and confident in communication.

● Excellent working knowledge and comprehension of written English.

What you will gain:

This role provides a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in fundraising, bid writing (where applicable), and event planning. You’ll develop valuable skills in building partnerships, communication, and project management—skills that are highly sought after across many sectors. In addition to gaining practical experience, you’ll be part of a passionate and supportive team, working closely with experienced professionals who are eager to help you grow, share their expertise, and celebrate your achievements.

By volunteering with us, you’ll experience the profound impact of helping your community receive awareness, prevention and interventions that will help safeguard and protect them against sexual exploitation and sex trafficking, as well as empowering and supporting victims and survivors. This is a perfect role for anyone looking to start or advance a career in the charity sector, communications, or event management, as well as for those who want to make a meaningful difference with their skills.

We are a welcoming team, dedicated to creating a positive and engaging volunteer experience where you’ll feel valued, inspired, and empowered to bring your ideas to life.

Please note that we will request references, and a DBS check will be required due to the nature of our work.

Volunteer Fundraising Events Organiser

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Our vision is a society where every cat has their best possible life because they are protected, cared for and understood by everyone.

We are a movement of people championing the welfare of cats. We lead society in a richer understanding of all cats and care for those that need our help.

Our Purpose is to to help people see the world through cats’ eyes

Our brand new Community Fundraising Hub is here to support you in this role, so there's never been a better time to get involved!

A bit about this role:

As a charity we can help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations from our supporters. Raising funds is a key role in our charity, helping to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need.

As a fundraising volunteer, we will support you every step of the way to ensure your time at Cats Protection is a positive and rewarding one. Whatever time you can give really does make a big difference We have lots of exciting activities to choose from for example attending a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, handling administrative tasks, or contributing to the development of new fundraising ideas. Whatever your skill set, this role could be perfect for you!

What can you expect to be doing?

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:

• face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with fundraising events, attending supermarket collections and monitoring collection boxes.
• online fundraising – assisting with online appeals, increasing social media engagement to maximise funds raised.
• bringing new ideas! We always love to come up with new ideas to raise funds for cats and we’d love to help bring yours to life.
• engaging with your local branch and Fundraising Hub and feeling like an integral part of the team.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.

We're looking for someone with:

• Sympathetic to cats and our values
• Happy to be part of a team of dedicated volunteers and employees.
• Flexible and adaptable to different events/activities
• Open to new ideas and ways of fundraising

Time expectation

This role is very flexible, often certain times of the year are busier than others. You can choose your level of involvement to suit your schedule.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The well being of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Create Change through Arts Therapies , Lead with Purpose

We are looking for trustees to oversee the direction of the charity. We have delivered rapid growth over the last two years and now need to expand our Board of Trustees. By joining our board you will be: 

• Making a Lasting Impact: you can help transform lives through creative therapeutic support for individuals taking action to deal with their mental health.
• Shape the Future: you will be part of shaping the future of our charity as we expand services and reach more people in need.
• Use Your Expertise for Good: bring your professional skills to the board, whether in finance, education, governance, fundraising, or therapeutic services, and help guide the strategic direction of our charity.

We are seeking to fill our board with the following expertise: 

Experience in the following areas would be valuable:

• Finance and Accounting: To oversee the financial health of the charity, ensuring sustainability and growth.
• Fundraising and Income Generation: To support us in developing sustainable income streams, including grant applications, corporate partnerships, and individual giving.
• Therapeutic Services and Arts Therapy: Professionals who understand the sector and can help shape our programmes in alignment with best practices in mental health care.
• Marketing and Communications: To help us raise the profile of Arts Therapies UK through digital strategies, media relations, and public engagement.
• Legal and Governance: Individuals with experience in charity law or governance to ensure we remain compliant with regulatory requirements.

Trustee Roles and Responsibilities:

As a trustee, you will:

• Ensure that the charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit.
• Provide strategic oversight of the charity’s projects and services, ensuring they align with the overall mission.
• Monitor financial performance and ensure the charity is operating within its means.
• Act as an advocate and ambassador for Arts Therapies UK, raising awareness of the charity’s work.
• Attend 6 weekly (approximetley) trustee meetings held online, an annual strategy day (in person), and contribute to subcommittees and requests for support where necessary.
• Uphold the charity’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Why Join Arts Therapies UK:

• Purpose-Driven Work: Support our mission that provides interventions to individuals facing mental health challenges across the whole country.
• Impact: Directly influence the charity’s ability to reach more people in need, through strategic decision-making and governance.
• Development: Build on your leadership and governance skills while making a meaningful difference in your community.
• Collaborative Board: Join a diverse and experienced group of trustees who are passionate about mental health and the arts.

If you are interested please read the attached role descriptions carefully and then submit a CV and brief covering letter. 

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Event Helper at Cats Protection!

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.

Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about the role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our Fundraising Event Helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!

What can you expect to be doing

● Help set up and/or man stalls at events

● Help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections

● Help at fundraising events such as Quiz nights, cake sales and dances

● Promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You’ll meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. By being the link between members of the public and Cats Protection, the money you collect will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens

We’re looking for someone with

● A friendly, outgoing outlook

● An affinity with people

● Willingness to be part of a team

● A passion for feline welfare

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.  

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The well being of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Are you passionate about using your skills and expertise to help support and develop a UK-wide relationships and sex education charity?

Sexpression:UK provides high quality, comprehensive relationships and sex education workshops to young people between the ages of 11-18 in schools and youth groups. We operate across the UK through our unique network of affiliated branches and volunteers based at universities and students’ unions in 18 towns and cities.

You will have strong empathy with our mission to educate and empower young people to make individual, informed decisions about their bodies and their health. You will be committed to using your expertise to contribute to the future development of the charity and ensuring high quality governance of the organisation.

We are looking for an individual with financial experience to join our board of trustees.This is an exciting time to join our charity with the opportunity to contribute to a unique youth-led charity playing a leading role in some of today’s biggest issues.

Zambia Orphans Aid UK (ZOA-UK) is looking for part-time volunteers to support our Digital & Communications work by giving three hours a week. The ideal candidate/s will have a passion for all things digital and an interest in international development. We are seeking people who have good digital understanding, a flare for design and experience of creating social media content across a range of platforms.

You will possess a positive attitude together with a proactive approach to problem solving. You will be home-based and have the freedom to set your own hours, so self-motivation is essential. 

This post will support ZOA-UK’s communications and digital activities to increase the reach, profile and influence of the charity and build our brand as a leading charity supporting orphans and vulnerable children in Africa. Our volunteers support the small team to create a cohesive and effective approach to delivering our messages to target audiences, driving supporter engagement and donations, and raising awareness of the needs of orphans and vulnerable children in Zambia.

Range of likely duties to include:

1. Write up case studies and stories of change and ensure they and accompanying photographs and video footage are stored securely in our image and case study database

2. Help build our social media activity to achieve measurable outcomes in terms of raising awareness, and increasing numbers of supporters who convert to become donors

3. Use Canva to create inspiring content for social media channels – Instagram, facebook, X, linkedin etc

4. Create blogs, infographics and other content for the website, ZOA-UK’s supporter newsletters and annual report

Volunteer Fundraising Events Helper

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.

Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about the role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our Fundraising Event Helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!

What can you expect to be doing

● Help set up and/or man stalls at events

● Help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections

● Help at fundraising events such as Quiz nights, cake sales and dances

● Promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

● Free text as bullet points

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You’ll meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. By being the link between members of the public and Cats Protection, the money you collect will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens

We’re looking for someone with

● A friendly, outgoing outlook

● An affinity with people

● Willingness to be part of a team

● A passion for feline welfare

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.  

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The well being of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Are you passionate about using your skills and expertise to help support and develop a UK-wide relationships and sex education charity?

Sexpression:UK provides high quality, comprehensive relationships and sex education workshops to young people between the ages of 11-18 in schools and youth groups. We operate across the UK through our unique network of affiliated branches and volunteers based at universities and students’ unions in 18 towns and cities.

You will have strong empathy with our mission to educate and empower young people to make individual, informed decisions about their bodies and their health. You will be committed to using your expertise to contribute to the future development of the charity and ensuring high quality governance of the organisation.

We particularly welcome applicants with experience in any of the following: monitoring and evaluation, working in schools in the United Kingdom, devolved nation experience, or corporate experience.

This is an exciting time to join our charity with the opportunity to contribute to a unique youth-led charity playing a leading role in some of today’s biggest issues.

Welcome to Unlock YOUR Potential, a brand new dynamic charity starting up thats dedicated to transforming lives and empowering individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. We are passionately committed to creating new pathways for positive change through our comprehensive programmes and holistic support.

Our Vision: We envision a world where every individual has the opportunity to unlock their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.

Our Mission: Our mission is to empower, inspire, and support those facing barriers and challenges. We deliver tailored programmes that foster skills, confidence, and networks, paving the way for success.

Our Values:

• Passion: Our work is fuelled by a deep care for the communities we serve.

• Results: We are driven by the tangible outcomes and achievements of our beneficiaries.

• Innovation: We constantly seek innovative methods to enhance our programmes.

• Collaboration: We believe in the power of partnership and inclusivity.

• Integrity: Our operations are marked by professionalism, ethics, and transparency.

At Unlock YOUR Potential, we will be offering a suite of transformative programmes and services designed to empower individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our holistic approach addresses key areas such as employment, education, life skills, mentoring, and personal development.

Graphic Designer:

We are seeking a talented and creative volunteer to join our team as a Graphic Designer. This is a one off or regular volunteer role and is crucial in designing a variety of urgent and important items such as social media posts and graphics, a guide booklet on Unlock YOUR Potential, branded documents like recruitment packs, participant forms, training manuals, internal posters (e.g., safeguarding and values), and much more. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Design visually appealing and brand-consistent graphics for social media posts and other digital platforms.
• Create a comprehensive guide booklet on Unlock YOUR Potential.
• Develop branded documents including recruitment packs, participants forms, training manuals, and internal posters.
• Collaborate with the team to understand design requirements and deliver high-quality visuals.
• Ensure all designs align with our mission and values, effectively communicating our message to the community.
• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines and maintaining quality.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience in graphic design, preferably in the non-profit sector but not essential.
• Proficiency in graphic design software.
• Strong creative skills and an eye for detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for social impact and creating opportunities for those facing socio-economic challenges.

Time Commitment:

• This volunteer role offers great flexibility to fit around your life. You can design one-off items or design regularly for us.

Together, let’s unlock potential and create positive change.

Unlock YOUR Potential

• BREAKING BARRIERS 
• UNLOCKING POTENTIAL

Are you passionate about Nursing, Social Work, or Community Development? Join Marie Curie as a Companion Volunteer and gain invaluable experience while making a meaningful impact.

As a Companion Volunteer, you'll provide one-on-one companionship and support to individuals with terminal illnesses and their families across the UK. Your dedication will not only enrich lives but also offer you a profound sense of fulfilment and professional growth.

Marie Curie is excited to launch our Companions in the Community Service, supporting individuals in their final year of life within care and nursing homes across Surrey. This pioneering service will complement the vital work of our Nursing Team and local community services, offering compassionate end-of-life care to patients and their loved ones.

Why You'll Love This Role:

• Make a real difference and provide crucial emotional and practical support to those with life-limiting conditions.
• Enhance your skills in a supportive charity environment and connect with professionals in the healthcare sector.
• Engage with residents through regular visits, facilitate heartfelt conversations, and offer tailored support as needed.

Your Role as a Companion:

• Engage with residents by regularly visiting care homes to interact with and uplift residents.
• Create spaces for meaningful conversations about what truly matters to them.
• Offer support and provide companionship to those who are actively dying and assist with tasks like Advance Care Plans or ongoing needs.

Skills and Experience we’re looking for:

• Passionate and Empathetic with a genuine desire to support others during their end-of-life journey.
• Local Knowledge and/or residency in the Surrey community.
• Strong communication, active listening skills and the ability to build rapport.
• Basic IT skills for handling documentation and communication.

What You’ll Gain:

• Develop and refine your abilities in a charitable setting.
• Receive comprehensive induction, training and support.
• Connect with professionals and volunteers across the charity and healthcare sectors.
• Experience the profound satisfaction of making a difference in people’s lives during a crucial time.

What We Ask of You:

• References and Documentation: Provide two non-family references and relevant identification documents.
• Commitment to Training: Adhere to all charity policies, complete induction and role-related training.

At Marie Curie, we are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of patients and their families. We value diversity and are committed to treating all volunteers with respect and fairness.

Ready to make a difference? Join our team as a Companion Volunteer and contribute to a compassionate and supportive community.

Welcome to Unlock YOUR Potential, a brand new dynamic charity starting up thats dedicated to transforming lives and empowering individuals aged between 18 and 60 years old from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. We are passionately committed to creating new pathways for positive change through our comprehensive programmes and holistic support.

Our Vision: We envision a world where every individual has the opportunity to unlock their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.

Our Mission: Our mission is to empower, inspire, and support those facing barriers and challenges. We deliver tailored programmes that foster skills, confidence, and networks, paving the way for success.

Our Values:

• Passion: Our work is fuelled by a deep care for the communities we serve.

• Results: We are driven by the tangible outcomes and achievements of our beneficiaries.

• Innovation: We constantly seek innovative methods to enhance our programmes.

• Collaboration: We believe in the power of partnership and inclusivity.

• Integrity: Our operations are marked by professionalism, ethics, and transparency.

At Unlock YOUR Potential, we will be offering a suite of transformative programmes and services designed to empower individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our holistic approach will address key areas such as employment, education, life skills, mentoring, and personal development.

Its an exciting time to launch our new charity with the new governments focus on getting people back to work or in training and development, there will be plenty of opportunities for us to make a huge impact but we need to set the foundations and get ourselves ready to launch. 

Head of Delivery (HoD):

We are looking for a Head of Delivery, who can join our new charity start-up and help us build a solid foundation and help to create, design, develop and immpliment our core programmes at Unlock YOUR Potential, providing our key services to those who need it. This includes Employability and Enterprise Programme, Health and Well-Being Programme, Life Skills, Mentoring and Personal Development Programme.

As our Head of Delivery you will be responsible for the delivery and long-term strategy of Unlock YOUR Potential's programmes. You will be responsible for;

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of all programmes and services.
• Collaborate with partners and stakeholders to enhance our offerings.
• Ensure that all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve programme delivery and impact.
• Monitor and report on the outcomes and achievements of our programmes.
• Support the team in troubleshooting and resolving any issues that arise during programme delivery.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the delivery team.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience in programme/project management, preferably in the non-profit sector.
• Strong leadership and organisational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for social impact and creating opportunities for those facing socio-economic challenges.

Time Commitment:

• Approximately 6-8 hours per week, with flexibility to fit around your life.​

Join us in making a difference and unlocking the potential of disadvantaged people in our community!

Unlock YOUR Potential

• BREAKING BARRIERS
• UNLOCKING POTENTIAL

Being a Walk Leader involves a regular commitment as you will be taking responsibility for one of the main objectives of our group: leading a local walking group. With this in mind, these are the activities involved in being a Walk Leader: 

• Lead a local walking group, being a point of contact for the walking group participants. 
• Be able and willing to be facilitating a walking group at least once monthly
  • ​We understand that you may be working full-time and have a family life, so please consider carefully if this level of commitment is right for you,
  • You may only be able to commit to once a month; this is okay, as long as it can be the same day/time each month and this can be evenings or weekends, for example,
  • We want our Group Leaders to take ownership of this as long as it works for you and the participants who attend,
  • It is important that if for any reason you cannot make it to lead a walking group you are able to ensure there is someone able to step in for you.
• Being prepared to provide advice and guidance regarding any concerns, within the limitations outlined below (see section below on what volunteers should not do) 
• Being willing to interact with and, if needed, offer support to other Group Leaders 

Important thoughts on our volunteer roles 

MenWalkTalk has been set up to offer opportunities for men with mental health issues to come together and feel no pressure or stigma about discussing their issues with other men. 

Supporting men with mental health issues is at its core, and it may help you in your volunteering if you too have lived experience of a mental health problem, either personally or from a close relative or friend. It will also help if you have an open, non-judgemental attitude, and that you are able to adopt a positive, patient and supportive approach towards supporting people with mental health problems. 

We would like you understand that whatever role you are able to volunteer for, when representing MenWalkTalk volunteers should at all times behave in a professional, confidential and non-discriminatory manner at all times, and promote equal opportunities for all. 

What a MenWalkTalk Walk Leader should not do 

MenWalkTalk is about getting more people walking, benefiting from the physical, social and mental wellbeing benefits that come from walking and talking. 

Within their volunteer roles, MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Walk Leaders should not offer to provide individual or emergency support for people experiencing mental health problems or in crisis. There are lots of people and organisations who can help, and MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Walk Leaders will be provided with information and guidance on signposting anyone to access the necessary support. 

Similarly, unless they are qualified to do so MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Group Leaders won’t provide therapeutic or coaching advice. Again, you will be provided with information on directing anyone to the appropriate support. 

More About MenWalkTalk:

Mission

To provide support to any adult male, whether they may have experienced, or are experiencing, a mental health issue or not. To listen to them, support them, walk with them and signpost them to specialist support where appropriate.We want to raise the awareness of mental health issues that men currently face, promoting a better understanding of this area. 

Vision

“For men to feel able to speak out, feel heard, understood and supported. To promote a positive change in people’s lives through mutual support and advice”

Values

Welcoming; We understand it can be difficult, we are here for you. Approachable; We are available without judgement. Partnership; We understand there is strength in numbers and will support you to further support. Positive; We will try to find the positive in every situation.

Rochdale and District Mind is a mental health charity that supports people in the community who are facing mental health challenges. Our area of operation is Heywood, Middleton, Rochdale, Bury and N.E. Lancashire. As part of the Mind Federation and the Mind in Greater Manchester partnership, our goal is to ensure that individuals do not face mental health issues alone and can live free from stigma and discrimination.

Our team consists of over 70 dedicated staff members and volunteers who provide a wide variety of services and activities, including counselling, therapeutic group workshops, advocacy, crisis support, dementia support, two wellbeing cafés, as well as other wellbeing activities such as sports sessions. To ensure our services are effective and rooted in the needs of the community, we involve people who use our services in shaping our offer. We are also pleased to be recognised for our work with our Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities in Rochdale. We work proactively both with our service users and with other key stakeholder organisations to tackle health inequalities. 

Chair opportunity

We are flexible in our approach and are open to a single Chair or Co-Chair arrangement. We are looking for strong governance experience and the ability to lead. Our new Chair or Co-Chairs will have energy and drive, a genuine passion for mental health support and be able to bring both knowledge and connections to the organisation.

It is an interesting time to be joining us. In recent years, Rochdale and District Mind has experienced significant growth, with both our annual turnover and staff numbers doubling. We have successfully integrated our offerings into the strategic framework of our local Integrated Care Board, adapting our services to address the evolving mental health needs of our community. We are currently engaged in a phase of reflection and consolidation, and with our new CEO Philip Bramson now in place are poised to embark on the next chapter of our journey from a solid foundation. 

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting Rochdale and District Mind in the recruitment for this role. Please click here to apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• Why are you interested in a Chair or Co-Chair role, and why with Rochdale and District Mind? 
• How can you contribute to Rochdale and District Mind as our Chair or Co-Chair?
• Please highlight relevant experience and demonstrate how your skills match the specific requirements of the role as set out in the role description.

If you would like a call to discuss the role in more detail, please email Bernice Rook at our recruitment partners Eastside People to arrange a convenient time. Having a call of this kind will not influence the success or otherwise of your application.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustments so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

The closing date for applications is Friday 14th February and our candidate assessment schedule is as follows:

• EP interviews carried out through the recruitment process with final interviews taking place by Fri 21st February.
• Formal interviews with Rochdale and District Mind in the week commencing 3rd March.
• The successful candidate or candidates will be asked to attend two Board meetings as an observer, after which the appointment will be confirmed via a trustee vote.

Eastside People is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and works with our clients to ensure that we recruit inclusively, seeking to address the underrepresentation of some groups of people in leadership teams. We warmly welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.