Policy Researcher Volunteer Roles in Edinburgh

Role Description

About Pain Concern

Pain Concern is a charity providing information and support to people with pain and those who care for them, whether family, friends or healthcare professionals. Visit our website to find out more about what we do, including our Airing Pain radio programme, Pain Matters magazine, information helpline, community pain education sessions and our research and campaigning work.   

All pain is unpleasant, but for the 7.8 million people in the UK living with long-term pain it is a part of everyday life. It diminishes quality of life more than any other condition, leading often to loss of work, depression and disability. Anyone at any age can develop persistent pain and you will very probably know somebody affected. Although there is usually no cure, people who receive the appropriate treatment, information and support can manage their condition effectively with life-changing results.  

Role Purpose

Are you looking to build your skills in web development?

This voluntary role provides an opportunity to gain and develop skills whilst doing something worthwhile.

What you will be doing

• Update and maintain the charity’s website

• Work with the project coordinator to improve the tagging and SEO of the website

• Work closely with the media team, ensuring all posts and pages are uploaded correctly

• Troubleshoot any issues with the website

• Over time, development of the charity’s website to improve user experience.

Is this role right for me?

We are looking for an individual who possesses some or all of the below experiences, skills and qualities.

• Previous experience using WordPress

• Good understanding of SEO

• Excellent IT skills

• Knowledge of HTML (not essential but desirable)

• Good communication skills.

• Happy to use Microsoft Teams for meetings

Availability and location

• Volunteer 2-4 hours per week, at least 6 months commitment

• You can volunteer on days/times which suit you and fit around your current commitments

• You can volunteer from our office at Newcraighall, Edinburgh or from your location.

Benefits to you

• Experience volunteering as part of a friendly team
• Meet new people  

• Build on your employability skills  

• Training and a dedicated volunteer line manager looking after you   

• A job reference after 3 months of volunteering. 

• Satisfaction of giving a valuable service to the community 

• On-site car parking 

• Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Volunteer Policy   

How do I apply?

Download and complete an application form our website 

About Pain Concern

Pain Concern is a charity providing information and support to people with pain and those who care for them, whether family, friends or healthcare professionals. Visit our website to find out more about what we do, including our Airing Pain radio programme, Pain Matters magazine, information helpline, community pain education sessions and our research and campaigning work.

All pain is unpleasant, but for the 7.8 million people in the UK living with long-term pain it is a part of everyday life. It diminishes quality of life more than any other condition, leading often to loss of work, depression and disability. Anyone at any age can develop persistent pain and you will very probably know somebody affected. Although there is usually no cure, people who receive the appropriate treatment, information and support can manage their condition effectively with life-changing results.

Purpose of Volunteer

Role Pain Concern is looking for a highly motivated, hard-working candidate seeking entry into financial accounting. For the right candidate, this is a chance to boost your CV whilst doing something worthwhile. Previous post-holders have gone on to gain employment in the finance industry. As a member of Pain Concern’s finance team, you will assist our management team. By joining us you will join a fast-growing and respected service. The location is Pain Concern’s office in Edinburgh. The successful candidate will probably be educated in accounts to HNC or up to degree level. Previous experience or training is not necessary. We are looking for a willingness to learn, commitment to accuracy and attention to detail. Knowledge of Sage while useful, is not essential. It is a part-time unpaid position of between 4 to 6 hours per week with a minimum commitment of 6 months.

What would I be doing?

1. Maintaining financial records.

2. Processing customer and supplier transactions.

3. Processing bank transactions

4. Allocating income and expenditure against funds and projects

5. Month-end procedures: 

▪ Bank reconciliation ▪ Project reports ▪ Aged creditor and debtor reports ▪ Trial balance

6. Administrative tasks associated with financial records.

7. Attending team meetings.

Benefits to you:

• Experience volunteering as part of a friendly team

• Meet new people

• Build on your employability skills

• Training and a dedicated volunteer line manager looking after you

• A job reference after 3 months of volunteering.

• Satisfaction of giving a valuable service to the community

• On-site car parking
• Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Volunteer Policy

How do I apply?

To apply or for more information please visit our website.

Do you want to take part in vegan volunteering around your local area?

You can do that – right here at The Vegan Society. 

We have an ever-growing Community Network of vegans just like you, who have a passion to volunteer and promote veganism where they live. 

Every month, our Network choose from a range of outreach tasks. These could include town centre stalls, writing to a councillor or MP, sharing our campaigns on social media or contacting local businesses. You're in control of how much or how little you do. 

As an Advocate, you will have a network of other Advocates and an Organiser in your area. Your Organiser will be your main point of contact. They will send you tasks every month and ask you to feed back on what you've completed and any positive outcomes. 

Why do we need you to volunteer?

As the vegan community grows, veganism itself becomes better understood. We're finding that more people are looking to The Vegan Society to find out what being vegan is all about.

Local communities are starting to see the vegan movement as something real and something that’s happening in their area. More people are embracing a vegan lifestyle, which we welcome. From new businesses, to families, to councillors, many people need support. This could be with a range of topics: going vegan, finding correct information around a vegan diet, providing vegan options in their business, MPs listening to vegan constituents, and learning about our work.

Local issues are often unique and more varied than national issues. Our volunteers from local areas are vital! They enable us to share our messages and campaigns in an effective way. Research tells us that people are far more likely to trust information from a peer rather than an outside expert, so community volunteering vastly increases the impact of our campaigns.

Our network of committed local vegans across the country is growing! The Vegan Society organises various outreach activities to influence change in every level of society. There are a range of activities going on all the time, from general educational stalls at events to meeting with local policy influencers.

Advocates are a crucial voice in their own community. They ensure that our campaign messages are spread far and wide. They provide a strong vegan presence in local communities.

What does the Advocate role involve?

Being an Advocate for veganism with The Vegan Society will mean communicating with people in your local community. You'll share the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. You will form part of a local group, headed up by a local Organiser. The Organiser will feed back your collective efforts to staff. You will also be invited to our private Facebook group, for vegan socialising and ideas sharing.

You’ll stay in touch with the Organiser and bring your passion to tasks. Activities can range from staffing a stall to giving a talk at an employee event. It could also mean writing to a local newspaper or lobbying an MP.

Messaging can differ every month. Part of our mission statement is to ensure people can remain vegan, so you might focus on getting more vegan options available in local businesses. Or within our Live Vegan for Less campaign, you may share cheap vegan recipes to help people with the cost of living.

When acting as an Advocate, you will use The Vegan Society’s branding and messaging guidelines. Your local Organiser will guide you in doing this, as they hold physical resources and handbooks. You can report any issues and feedback you have to your Organiser. You can also contact staff if your Organiser isn't available or you have any problems.

What training and support is available?

You will be provided with a big welcome and full induction from your local Organiser. They will introduce you to the group and any actions that are ongoing. Any training and development will be provided via your Organiser, and you can also ask for specific training on any areas that you need some development in.

What skills would be useful in doing this role?

• The ability to stay motivated in order to achieve the best possible outcomes
• Good email etiquette, responding in a timely manner
• Committed to veganism and the mission of The Vegan Society
• Ability to stay calm if confronted with differing opinions or challenges
• A good communicator, with the ability to be persuasive
• Confident in communicating with people from a range of backgrounds
• Experience of campaigning
• Any experience in talking with members of the public through customer/public service would be helpful
• Awareness of current affairs, especially those that relate to veganism
• Regular availability and a willingness to stay committed to actions
• Good team player

How much time do I need to invest? 

For Advocates, we ask for people to engage in a minimum of four to six actions per year. An example of an action could be writing to an MP or holding a stall. But the more you can do, the better! On occasion, there may also be online meetings to plan for actions or provide training.

As Professor Jane Anderson steps down in 2025, National AIDS Trust (NAT) is seeking a new Chair to guide us into our next chapter.

This is a pivotal moment for NAT as we develop our next five-year strategy, shaping our efforts to achieve the government’s goal of eliminating all new HIV transmissions by 2030. At the same time, we will continue our vital work to reduce and eliminate HIV-related stigma. Collaboration remains at the heart of our approach as we work alongside the government, partners, and stakeholders to drive meaningful change for people living with and at risk of HIV.

Our next Chair will play a crucial role in achieving these goals, providing strategic leadership and supporting both the Chief Executive and the Board as we navigate key challenges and opportunities in the years ahead.

We are seeking an individual who embodies NAT’s values and brings a deep commitment to equality and human rights.

Main responsibilities:

Providing Strategic Leadership: Collaborating with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Board of Trustees to guide the direction of National AIDS Trust.

Inspiring the Board and Stakeholders: Promoting the organisation’s vision and mission, motivating both internal and external stakeholders.

Leading Strategic Reviews: Working with the Board, CEO, and senior staff to regularly assess and refine National AIDS Trust’s strategic aims and objectives.

Strong Chairing: Demonstrating excellent chairing skills to ensure the Board operates cohesively, with effective agenda-setting and diligent follow-up on decisions made.

Fostering Board Culture: Cultivating a positive, collaborative culture within the Board, subcommittees, and other working groups, ensuring that they function efficiently.

Oversight of Financial Health: Ensuring the Board is assured of the robustness of National AIDS Trust’s finances, overseeing annual business planning, and approving the budget.

Financial Stewardship: Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation and that funds are used in accordance with its objectives and relevant regulations.

Collaborating Across the Organisation: Building effective working relationships with Trustees, the CEO, staff, and volunteers to achieve National AIDS Trust's goals.

Appointing and Developing Trustees: Leading the recruitment, appraisal, and development of a diverse group of high-calibre Trustees, ensuring a range of skills, expertise, and perspectives to support the organisation's aims.

Ensuring Governance Compliance: Overseeing governance practices and ensuring the charity complies with the law and Charity Commission guidelines.

Ambassadorship: Representing National AIDS Trust as an ambassador, utilising your networks to further the organisation’s interests and raise its profile.

Commitment and Terms

The role requires a full and active commitment to the charity’s work, with the following expected involvement:

• Chairing quarterly Board meetings.
• Attending and sometimes chairing subcommittee meetings, including ad hoc Nominations and Appointments Committee meetings, as well as biannual Advisory Committee meetings.
• Regular (currently monthly) phone or video calls with the CEO.
• Representing the charity at additional engagements, as necessary.

East London Waterworks Park is looking for volunteer managers to develop and manage meaningful and sustainable volunteer experiences.

East London Waterworks Park is a volunteer-led charity that has won a 2024 New London Architecture award and raised £2m towards buying land from the Department for Education to transform the 14-acre Thames Water Depot on Lea Bridge Road on the border of Waltham Forest and Hackney, into a new biodiverse park with natural swimming ponds, forest schools and community spaces. 

We are looking for volunteer managers to contribute to our community-led working group who are developing and managing meaningful and sustainable volunteer experiences within East London Waterworks Park. 

There is opportunity to lead on projects in communications and governance, and facilitate the direction of the working group.

The Comms Circle currently meets fortnightly on a Tuesday evening on Google Meet and spends voluntary time outside of the meeting completing agreed tasks remotely.

You should be experienced in developing and managing meaningful and sustainable volunteer experiences with a range of different roles. Strong organisational and interpersonal skills are essential. We also value your ability to think strategically and build relationships within the community. Experience in managing and motivating volunteer teams is important and a strong understanding of volunteer engagement and the ability to create a positive and inclusive environment will be invaluable. You should be comfortable with community-led processes. Our roles are quite flexible. We hope that people bring radical imagination, peace with nature, and courageous inclusiveness to the role. 

Contribute to the creation of a new biodiverse community-owned park with free access natural swimming ponds. Your leadership and organisational skills will be instrumental in coordinating the efforts of our diverse team of volunteers, including architects, ecologists, teachers, community researchers, and communications strategists. By effectively managing and motivating our volunteer base, you'll ensure that their contributions are aligned with the park's goals and maximise their impact on our community and the environment.

About Vibes in Care (ViC)

Vibes in Care CIC is a newly forming Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) dedicated to amplifying the voices of children and young people who are care-experienced or at risk. By harnessing insights from lived experience, we develop training, workshops, and advocacy initiatives that reshape professional practices within the care sector.

• Founded on Lived Experience: We believe that those who have gone through the care system have the clearest insights into how to improve it.
• Innovative Training & Workshops: Our programmes empower professionals - such as social workers, educators, and youth workers - to bring about lasting change in how care is delivered.
• Collaborative Culture: Partnership is at the heart of ViC. We work closely with local authorities, youth organisations, and sector specialists to co-create solutions.

Why We Need You

We are seeking Trustees who share our passion for transforming the care experience. Whether you have direct care experience (e.g., have been in care yourself), professional experience in the sector, or simply a deep commitment to improving outcomes for care-experienced children and young people, your voice and leadership are invaluable at this pivotal stage of our growth.

The Role

• Steer Strategic Vision: Help shape and refine ViC’s long-term plans, ensuring that lived experience remains at the core of every decision.
• Champion Good Governance: Oversee compliance with charity regulations, manage financial health, and set policies that maintain transparency and integrity.
• Advocate for Care-Experienced Children and Young People: Act as an ambassador, raising awareness about ViC’s mission and the importance of centring care-experienced voices.
• Support Growth & Partnerships: Contribute insights on fundraising, partnership-building, and community engagement to help ViC expand its reach and impact.

What We’re Looking For

1. Care Experience (Highly Valued): We particularly encourage applications from individuals who have first-hand insights into the care system.
2. Dedication to Social Impact: A genuine desire to improve day-to-day experiences and long-term outcomes for care-experienced children and young people.
3. Collaborative Mindset: Ability to work well in a team, valuing diverse perspectives and open dialogue.
4. Integrity & Oversight: Commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards and acting in the best interests of ViC’s beneficiaries.
5. Strategic Thinking: Capable of understanding big-picture objectives, assessing organisational risks, and spotting growth opportunities.

Skills & Experience (Desirable)

• Professional or Personal Care Experience: Lived experience, in social care work, child protection, or related fields.
• Finance/Accounting: Competent in budget oversight, financial planning, or grant management.
• Legal & Compliance: Familiarity with UK charity regulations or basic legal frameworks.
• HR & Governance: Ability to guide policy setting, recruitment, and staff/volunteer support.
• Fundraising & Communications: Skill in securing resources and raising organisational visibility.

What’s In It For You?

• A Real Chance to Influence: Your perspective will be integral in shaping how ViC evolves.
• Professional Development: Gain governance experience, hone leadership skills, and build your professional network.
• Impact & Legacy: Contribute directly to improving practices that affect some of society’s most vulnerable young people.
• Flexible & Supportive Environment: We meet quarterly, with much of our collaboration happening remotely, so you can fit your responsibilities around other commitments.

Time Commitment

• Board Meetings: Held four times per year (virtually or in person).
• Preparation & Engagement: A few hours each quarter to review papers and stay updated on organisational developments.
• Additional Involvement: Optional sub-committees or working groups on areas like safeguarding, finance, and training delivery.

Application Process

• CV & Cover Letter: Apply via CharityJob outlining your relevant experience (especially care experience), why you’re passionate about our cause, and how you hope to contribute as a Trustee.
• Informal Interview: We’ll invite shortlisted candidates for a conversation with our Director (Founder) to explore mutual fit and answer any questions.
• Appointment: Successful applicants will be welcomed onto the board, pending usual referencing and compliance checks.

Join us in creating meaningful change for care-experienced children and young people. Your lived insight, passion, and dedication could transform how professionals approach care and, ultimately, transform futures. We look forward to hearing from you!

About YAUK

Youth Advantage UK is a charitable organization that uses a research-led approach to inform policy work and projects that aim to promote and further the human rights of young people aged 11 to 25 across the United Kingdom.

Please note that this is a remote VOLUNTEER role.

We won't accept applications from individuals residing outside of the UK as we operate on the principle of bettering the lives of young people in the UK. Therefore, we require our volunteers to have an understanding of what it is like to live in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted partner to the organisation, providing coaching and guidance to volunteers and working closely with department heads and managers.

• Manage and resolve escalations of volunteer relations cases with a consultative, solutions-focused approach.

• Support managers in identifying performance gaps and development opportunities within their teams.

• Provide expert advice to managers on performance management, grievances, and disciplinary matters in line with global best practices.

• Partner with stakeholders to ensure consistent application of policies across the organisation.

Requirements

• Strong knowledge of UK employment laws and practices and its relevance in a volunteer led organisation.

• Excellent writing and communication skills.

• IT literacy with own equipment (laptop and phone)

• Ability to work well in a team.

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

• Passionate for personal development

• Previous volunteering experience or experience in any kind of start up desirable

• Right to volunteer in the UK

Benefits

• This is a UK-based, 100% fully remote and flexible role.

• Supportive team and management to enhance your skills and build on your experience.

• Your work will help transform and empower many young people’s lives, rights, and interests and assist in promoting equality for all young people.

Why Volunteer with Us?

We are a supportive and friendly organization that takes pride in developing and nurturing our volunteers and providing them with excellent opportunities to thrive and further encourage their career growth and future aspirations.

We offer a fully remote working environment and a flexible and adaptable working schedule. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization, enhance your skills, and gain valuable experience. If this sounds like you and you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you!

A Little About Us!

Youth Advantage UK is a research-led, un incorporated un registered charitable organisation. We use a research-led approach to protect the rights and interests of young people through positive action such as projects, policy work, research, services, events. We promote and empower change.

Why we need you!

Youth Advantage UK are in our early stages but are growing and looking for volunteers to help achieve our aims to become a registered charitable organisation. Your skills and expertise are what we need to continue to grow. Without our volunteers we cannot grow and appreciate those who apply with us!

What we offer!

Anybody who wishes to help and contribute to a good cause are welcome to apply for one of our volunteering positions. We will speak to you about what your aims are to ensure that the volunteering position you are applying for is suitable. By volunteering you have the chance to learn something new and contribute to a successful organisation who is looking to help young people in the UK.

Note - if you apply for this role and are unfortunately not appointed, we will consider you for the Marketing Manager role

We are looking to appoint a volunteer who has experience in management and who is able to support the functions of our Marketing Department through the effective management of our marketing team and marketing policy. These functions include; website, social media, engagement, events and sponsorship (as a temporary function within this department).

Key accountabilities:

• Departmental strategic management 
• Marketing policy development 
• Social media output 
• Website development and design 
• Engagement and events 

Requirements 

• To have experience working in the charity sector or voluntary sector 
• To have experience in managing a team of people 
• To be competent in IT, social media and website design 
• To be an effective communicator 

We are looking to appoint a Chief Operating Officer who can provide leadership to operational departments and maintain consistent effectiveness across the organization. 

About YAUK

Youth Advantage UK is a charitable organization that uses a research-led approach to inform policy work and projects that aim to promote and further the human rights of young people aged 11 to 25 across the United Kingdom.

Please note that this is a remote VOLUNTEER role.

We won't accept applications from individuals residing outside of the UK as we operate on the principle of bettering the lives of young people in the UK. Therefore, we require our volunteers to have an understanding of what it is like to live in the UK.

Key responsibilities 

• Oversee the operations of the organization ensuring of efficiency

• Translate strategy into actionable plans

• To provide leadership to departmental heads in departments such as Communications and IT (this may extend to other departmental heads as required)

• Work with the CEO to develop strategy

• Lead the creation of policy and guidance

Requirements

• Proven leadership experience

• Understanding of key business functions

• Excellent decision-making skills

• Ability to problem solve effectively

• Great at multitasking

• Competence in strategic planning

• Integrity

• Ability to use remote tools and IT systems

• Good people and communication skills

• Right to volunteer in the UK

Benefits

• This is a UK-based, 100% fully remote and flexible role.

• Supportive team and management to enhance your skills and build on your experience.

• Your work will help transform and empower many young people’s lives, rights, and interests and assist in promoting equality for all young people.

Why Volunteer with Us?

We are a supportive and friendly organization that takes pride in developing and nurturing our volunteers and providing them with excellent opportunities to thrive and further encourage their career growth and future aspirations.

We offer a fully remote working environment and a flexible and adaptable working schedule. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization, enhance your skills, and gain valuable experience. If this sounds like you and you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you!

About Us

Youth Advantage UK is a charitable organization that uses a research-led approach to inform policy work and projects
that aim to promote and further the human rights of young people aged 11 to 25 across the United Kingdom.

Overview

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Training Coordinator who is able to grow and develop our fundraising team, supporting the organisation to get the funding it needs to operate and be successful.

Key Responsibilities

• To provide training sessions to new fundraising volunteers
• To teach others how to complete grant applications
• To equip volunteers with the skills and knowledge to carry out fundraising for the organisation
• To support the development of skills and knowledge within the fundraising team aiming to support those who have non or limited experience in fundraising

​Requirements

• To have at least 3 years in charity fundraising
• To have the ability to guide and support others
• To have good spoken communication skills
• To be able to deliver training sessions to groups
• To be able to use remote working systems
• To be familiar with grant fundraising and sponsorship

What We Offer

• An opportunity to make an impact in our mission-driven organization.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Professional development opportunities.

About Us

Youth Advantage UK is a charitable organization that uses a research-led approach to inform policy work and projects
that aim to promote and further the human rights of young people aged 11 to 25 across the United Kingdom.

Overview

We are looking to recruit a Specialist Fundraising Trainer who is able to grow and develop our fundraising team, supporting the organisation to get the funding it needs to operate and be successful.

Key Responsibilities

• To provide training sessions to new fundraising volunteers
• To teach others how to complete grant applications
• To equip volunteers with the skills and knowledge to carry out fundraising for the organisation
• To support the development of skills and knowledge within the fundraising team aiming to support those who have non or limited experience in fundraising

​Requirements

• To have at least 3 years in charity fundraising
• To have the ability to guide and support others
• To have good spoken communication skills
• To be able to deliver training sessions to groups
• To be able to use remote working systems
• To be familiar with grant fundraising and sponsorship

What We Offer

• An opportunity to make an impact in our mission-driven organization.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Professional development opportunities.

Role description

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

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

Why do we need you? 

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

What does the role involve? 

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

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

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

What training and support are available? 

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

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

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

What does my availability need to be? 

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

Who does this role report to? 

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

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.

Reports to: Chief Development Officer

We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced Head of Fundraising to lead the Fundraising department of Youth Advantage UK. The Head of Fundraising will be responsible for managing all fundraising initiatives and functions of the charity, including strategy development, donor engagement, and team leadership. This position requires a dynamic leader who can inspire and support the Fundraising team, ensure the charity complies with relevant laws and regulations, and drive the development of innovative fundraising strategies to secure long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

● Manage the Fundraising Team: Provide leadership to the fundraising team, including managing the fundraising manager and other team members.

● Develop Fundraising Strategies: Create and implement effective fundraising strategies to achieve financial targets and align with organisational goals.

● Ensure Compliance: Maintain adherence to regulations, policies, processes, and legislations, including data protection and the Charity Governance Code.

● Strengthen Donor Relationships: Cultivate relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, trusts, and foundations to secure sustainable funding.

● Innovate Income Streams: Identify and develop new income streams, including digital fundraising, legacy giving, and strategic partnerships.

● Monitor Performance: Track fundraising metrics and provide reports to the Chief Development Officer.

● Promote Organisational Values: Ensure the charity’s values, mission, and approach are reflected in all fundraising activities.

● Foster Partnerships: Build and maintain collaborative relationships with other organisations to enhance fundraising opportunities and resources.

Ideal Candidate:

● Experience: At least six months in a senior fundraising role with proven success in meeting and exceeding income targets.

● Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management abilities to inspire and develop fundraising staff.

● Strategic Thinking: Ability to design and implement innovative fundraising strategies.

● Communication Skills: Exceptional communication skills to engage donors, partners, and internal stakeholders effectively.

● Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with fundraising tools, CRM systems, and data analytics.

● Commitment to Inclusion: Understanding and experience in embedding diversity, equality, and inclusion within fundraising practices.

● Passion for Youth Development: Genuine enthusiasm for supporting young people and advancing the mission of Youth Advantage UK.

Day-to-day Tasks:

● Managing the fundraising team, including sharing best practices and meeting professional standards.

● Leading the execution of fundraising campaigns and initiatives to achieve financial goals.

● Building and maintaining relationships with donors and partners.

● Ensuring compliance with fundraising regulations and ethical standards.

● Developing donor engagement plans to nurture long-term relationships.

● Tracking progress against financial targets and reporting to senior leadership.

● Representing Youth Advantage UK at fundraising events and meetings.

Short-term Tasks:

● Recruiting and onboarding new members of the fundraising team.

● Conducting donor prospecting and research to identify new opportunities.

● Updating and improving fundraising materials, including donor communications.

● Reviewing and streamlining internal fundraising processes for efficiency.

● Creating a roadmap for the upcoming year’s fundraising strategy.

Why Join Youth Advantage UK?

Youth Advantage UK is a research led organsation that aims to further the rights of young people between 11 and 25 years old across the UK through policy work and projects. As the Head of Fundraising, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's growth and making a tangible impact on the lives of young people. You’ll work with a passionate and dedicated team, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop strategies to ensure the sustainability of our mission. We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment where all volunteers are valued and encouraged to grow both personally and professionally.