Refugees volunteer roles

the3million is currently seeking up to three new non-executive directors to strengthen its dynamic board and support the work of this passionate organisation at the forefront of migrants’ rights in the UK. 

Nine years after the Brexit referendum, we are navigating ongoing challenges affecting EU citizens’ communities. We are continuing to build power from the ground up, empowering people to get their voices heard. Your contribution will be crucial to making change happen.

These positions are voluntary and therefore unpaid.

About the3million

We are the leading organisation representing EU citizens in the UK. Our vision is a world where EU citizens can thrive, reach their potential and have an equal voice in UK society. Our work ranges from informing people of their rights and community organising of EU citizens’ communities, to holding the Government to account on the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement and promoting access to justice. 

We are a grassroots and non-partisan organisation, working with a variety of stakeholders, from MPs to NGOs, legal advisors and the media on specific issues affecting migrants’ rights. We regularly engage with the Home Office and its monitoring bodies to advocate for change. 

We were formed through the efforts of volunteers from many different backgrounds who came together in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit referendum in 2016. We hold on to that can-do, nimble spirit and friendly and non-hierarchical collegiality.

In 2024, the3million’s contribution towards creating lasting and significant change for EU citizens living in the UK was recognised at the EmpowerEU Awards, in the "Outstanding Achievement” category.

the3million was incorporated as a limited by guarantee not-for-profit company with Companies House in November 2017. As such, the role of members of the Board of Directors is similar, though not identical, to that of Charity Trustees.

What does the role involve? 

You will join a small board of professionals committed to helping EU citizens in the UK. We are specifically seeking directors with expertise, skills and knowledge in any or several of the following backgrounds: fundraising, legal compliance, HR, risk management, community organising, racial justice and safeguarding.

As a the3million non-executive director, you’ll play a vital role in keeping the organisation on track with its objectives. You will apply your professional experience towards shaping our strategy on fundraising, governance, campaigning and other areas of work.

The main purpose of your role:

As directors at the3million, you will have responsibility to:

• Ensure the3million is meeting its aims and objectives and acting in line with any relevant legislation or regulations
• Act in the best interests of the organisation
• Ensure the3million applies its resources exclusively in line with its strategic aims 
• Ensure the financial viability of the3million 
• Contribute effectively to the Board of Directors in giving clear strategic direction, and evaluating performance against set targets
• Support the Chief Executive Officer and monitor their performance
• Act with reasonable care and skill

What you will gain:

• An insight into how the organisation runs;
• Confidence in building relationships with a wide range of people, and the opportunity to learn from the varied experiences that other Board members bring to the table;
• An opportunity to use your skills, knowledge and experience to the benefit of the organisation and the communities we serve;
• A sense of pride when hearing about the difference our campaigning and organising efforts make, knowing you have had a role in protecting the rights of EU citizens in the UK.

Being a director is a voluntary role and is not paid, but expenses including for travel are reimbursed.

Director Person Specification

Key skills:

• Knowledge of and ability to carry out the core responsibilities of being a director (please note that onboarding and support is available to new Board members, particularly those who have not served on a Board before)
• Timeliness and clarity in your communication on and around meetings or projects
• Strategic vision: an ability to think about the ‘bigger picture’ and longer term (5 years ahead) as well as the ‘here and now’ 
• A willingness to act as an ambassador for the3million, promoting our work to friends and colleagues
• An ability to work as a member of a team, to comment, challenge or question in a way that is helpful, supportive and constructive
• A good sense of judgement

Qualification and experience

You will ideally have one or more of the following:

• Experience of working in senior teams, preferably at board level;
• Experience of volunteering/working in the third  sector;
• Fundraising;
• HR;
• Community organising;
• Safeguarding;
• Racial justice;
• Experience working in the migration field would be an advantage.

Personal attributes

• Integrity and honesty
• Proactiveness
• A demonstrable commitment to the3million's aims and values
• Team player, flexible and adaptable

Time commitment 

• A two hour evening board meeting every two months (online)
• Regular discussion and meeting with fellow directors (online)
• Follow up to meetings – reading and commenting on minutes, carrying out any agreed actions.
• One to two away-days per year (in-person);

Restrictions

• Over 18
• Must be currently based in the UK
• Not bankrupt
• Subject to satisfactory DBS check and references
• Not excluded by Companies House or Charity Commission
• Conflicts of interest that would be so significant as to undermine the role in general, such as being a member of a group that discriminated against people based on gender, ethnicity or nationality.

Who should apply?

Applications are welcome from everyone with the relevant passion and experience in one or more of the areas listed above. Having worked in the migration sector or in campaigning is not necessarily required. We recognise that many other settings offer transferable skills.

One of the3million’s core values is equity - we are people-led, we value diversity and are enriched by differences. We strive to listen to, engage with and represent the broadest range of people. 

We are particularly eager to hear from candidates with lived experience of migration. If you are from a background that is underrepresented in the migration sector we also strongly encourage you to apply. This could include coming from a community that experiences racism, living with a disability or not having been to University.

We recognise our team is not currently representative of communities that experience racism and that our own ways of working may replicate wider societal oppression and injustices. We are actively working towards becoming an anti-oppressive organisation, including taking steps to create a more inclusive recruitment process.

We believe our work will be stronger with greater diversity. the3million welcomes the whole person to work, and we understand that each of us brings our experiences, our backgrounds and our own unique lens to what we do.

Please send your CV along with an accompanying letter explaining your reasons for applying. We highly recommend going through the role specifications below before you start your application.

Next steps
 
Applications are welcome from everyone with the relevant passion and experience. If you would like to speak to someone on our current Board or a staff member to find out more about us before applying, you are welcome to do so.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a one-hour interview. Interviews may be carried out over the weekend. 

Successful applicants will be onboarded by other Board members, ensuring they are welcomed into the organisation.

Application Instructions

Please send your CV along with an accompanying letter explaining your reasons for applying. Applications submitted without a covering will not be reviewed. 

If you are on LinkedIn, please share with us the URL of your profile.

Please also download and fill in the equality and diversity monitoring form. We only use this information to understand the demographics of people we are reaching and to guide us in making the3million fairer. This process is separate and confidential; this information is not reviewed or taken into account in the recruitment process.

Please email all the above to us at recruitment[at]the3million[dot]org[dot]uk.

Do you live in Wales and want to gain valuable skills, have new experiences, and support vulnerable people? 

We are offering 1 young person aged 18-25 the opportunity to volunteer for up to 11 months with the French Red Cross (Croix Rouge) in Montrouge. The programme will run from September 2025 – August 2026 (subject to visas). 

You will join the head office communication department of Croix-Rouge insertion, a programme funded by the French Red Cross that enables destitute young people, homeless people and long-term jobseekers to re-connect to the labour market, through civic participation. An intermediate to fluent level of written and spoken French is essential for this role and you will have the opportunity to further develop your written skills in French and gain experience in communicating across a range of channels, as well as developing your conversational French through lessons provided by Croix Rouge. 

On your arrival in France, you will take part in a 3 days on-arrival seminar in Paris, where you will get to know your national coordinators and other European volunteers. You will also have the opportunity to discover the beautiful city of Paris before leaving for your placement role! Your role involves volunteering for a maximum of 35 hours per week, including French lessons and a personal project. 

This is a great opportunity to get involved in key projects and find out what you are interested in. The main thing we want to see is your motivation for this placement! 

Typical tasks may involve: 

• Activities at Headquarters: 

• Manage and update the association's web pages and social media accounts (including SEO improvements) 

• Create, update, and adapt various materials (posters, flyers, brochures, catalogues, activity reports, videos, presentations, etc.) 

• Monitor and share news related to Croix-Rouge insertion activities 

• Participate in the organisation of national events (General Assembly, seminars, partner meetings, etc.) 

• Support the creation of Activity Reports and ensure deadlines are met 

• Contribute to discussions and working groups to deepen the Croix-Rouge insertion project and improve communication practices 

• Provide logistical support for organising the General Assembly 

• Facilitate the flow of information between headquarters and the local offices 

• Activities on the Ground (Croix-Rouge Insertion Local Agencies - Bondy and Bobigny): 

• Assist the agencies in the development, daily operations, or sustainability of their actions related to Access to Rights, Prison-Justice, Mobility, Digital Inclusion, and Basic Skills for RSA beneficiaries 

• Support the sharing and learning of skills between teams to fully experience the support process, especially in the development of theatre improvisation workshops for beneficiaries 

• Assist in communicating on the ground to change the perception of the public interest, which is still often stigmatised in priority urban areas 

We’re looking for the following qualities: 

• Someone sensitive to the association's social and environmental dimension 

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail 

• Creative with good interpersonal skills

• Interest in office automation tools, graphic design software and animation tools (Adobe Suite, Canva, etc.) 

• Interest in digital media (social networks) 

• Ability to analyse, summarise and write in French

Please note that only young people based in Wales can apply for this role. This role requires someone with intermediate to fluent levels of spoken and written French. Interviews will take place online with shortlisted candidates. 

We are keen to hear from individuals especially those who do not normally get the chance to volunteer overseas, who are passionate and motivated about working in the humanitarian sector and international volunteering but who also understand that these types of placements require adaptability and resilience. We are especially interested in applications from those who are from low socio-economic backgrounds, are carers or are care experienced, have accessed free school meals, are refugees or asylum seekers and those with disabilities or additional needs. 

This is an exciting time for the Helen Bamber Foundation Group as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen our services for survivors of torture, trafficking, and human cruelty and those seeking protection. Our work is more crucial than ever, as we advocate for vulnerable individuals within a challenging and evolving global landscape.

This year, we are looking to find five inspirational Trustees to join the Group supporting Helen Bamber Foundation and Asylum Aid, comprising three new Trustees for Helen Bamber Foundation and two new Trustees for Asylum Aid. We are also looking for one of those new Trustees to sit on both Boards.

At Helen Bamber Foundation we are looking for three trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas:   policy, advocacy, public affairs or strategic communications; clinical or therapeutic experience; or human rights expertise.

At Asylum Aid, we are looking for two trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas: finance and accounting or someone with lived experience of being an asylum seeker, refugee or having sought another form of humanitarian protection in the UK, or of statelessness.

As a trustee of Helen Bamber Foundation or Asylum Aid, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and steering the long-term stability of your charity. 

At Helen Bamber Foundation we are looking for three trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas:   policy, advocacy, public affairs or strategic communications; clinical or therapeutic experience; or human rights expertise.

At Asylum Aid, we are looking for two trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas: finance and accounting or someone with lived experience of being an asylum seeker, refugee or having sought another form of humanitarian protection in the UK, or of statelessness.

For details of how to apply and who to speak to get find out more about this opportunity, please refer to the Trustee Recruitment Pack. 

Location: Glasgow

Hours: 2-4 hours a week

Closing date: 24 September 2025

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As Family activity volunteer, you will provide support to families seeking asylum who live in Glasgow through delivering activities that support children’s wellbeing and integration of parents.

We provide support to people seeking asylum in Glasgow while their asylum claims are being considered. Being new to communities, our clients need additional help to reduce isolation and help develop their confidence. We do that by organising activities that keep them busy, engaged and connected with locally available services. Your role is to lead on family-friendly activity planning and delivery – you will encourage families to come, design posters, help foster a friendly and non-judgmental environment.

Your role is crucial in complementing existing Migrant Help services by helping provide additional opportunities for clients to improve their skills and develop confidence.

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What you will do

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• Organise and deliver family and children-oriented activities to people seeking asylum in Glasgow weekly
• Promote a safe and non-judgemental environment for people joining activities
• Organise and adapt activities centring clients’ voice
• Communicate with other volunteers and staff where needed to deliver activities smoothly
• Encourage clients’ independence and provide words of encouragement, empathy
• Pack and store items securely in agreed locations
• Create interactive posters to encourage clients to engage in activities
• Be a point of contact for clients during activities and forward any concerns to staff
• Regularly communicate with volunteer coordinator and staff and openly share successes, challenges and ideas on improvement.

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What we expect from you

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• Complete relevant induction and training provided by Migrant Help
• Undergo a criminal conviction check (DBS, PVG or AccessNI).
• Commit to volunteering for a minimum of 6 months, at agreed times.
• Attend volunteer support sessions as required.
• Complete feedback forms when required highlighting any growth opportunities and honestly communicating what is not working well
• Adhere to confidentiality and safeguarding procedures
• Uphold Migrant Help’s values.
• Start volunteering at an agreed time and be punctual
• Complete all relevant documentation as required by volunteer coordinator
• Be open and understanding of different customs, values, and beliefs

​What you not be able to do

• Volunteer with us if you are under 18.
• Exchange contact information with clients
• Buy gifts, food or lend or give/receive money to/from clients
• Carry out casework tasks, such as, complete benefits applications, liaise with local authorities or refer to other services or provide immigration advice
   

You will be an excellent candidate for this role if you

• Have spare time to undertake befriending on a regular basis
• Are willing to work with diverse range of people
• Are non-judgmental and inclusive
• Have a friendly and approachable nature
• Are reliable and punctual
• Are patient
• Have empathetic listening skills
• Are a keen learner
• Have access to a laptop or computer to use
• ​Are comfortable using computer or laptop for typing and sending emails, video calls.

​

You will benefit from volunteering with us by

• Gaining experience useful for your future CVs and cover letters 
• Being able to provide a volunteering reference to your future employer or educator 
• Being a part of dedicated and inclusive service 
• Developing new skills 
• Being more aware of immigration and asylum systems in the UK 
• Having reasonable expenses reimbursed 
• Having regular check ins and supervision to support your volunteering experience and growth

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We look forward to hearing from everyone, especially if you:

• ​Are a speaker of Kurdish-Sorani, Tigrinya, Amharic, Vietnamese or Arabic.
• Have an excellent knowledge of your local area
• Have lived experience of trafficking, asylum or immigration systems
• Have an understanding of trafficking, asylum or immigration systems
• Have a vehicle and can drive

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About Migrant Help

​Migrant Help is a leading charity that has been established for over 50 years and delivers a range of support and advice services to migrants across the UK. Our vision is for a global society that protects vulnerable migrants, treats them with respect and enables them to reach their full potential. 

We place a high value on employees in relation to the work that they do and the benefits the organisation offers, with an ethos of being a Great Place to Work. 

At Migrant Help, we foster a culture in which equality, diversity and inclusion are recognised, valued and encouraged. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, we match your skills with the needs of our organisation. As long as you share our values, vision and goals. We welcome applications from candidates regardless of their age, religion or belief, race, gender reassignment, disability, sexual orientation, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity.

MigrantHelp is committed to safeguarding those we provide a service to, applicants will have to undergo strict vetting procedures throughout different stages of the recruitment process.

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Our busy Homework Club is part of our delivery of child and family support services, in order that low income and vulnerable families have improved access to services, employment opportunities and life chances.

Do you have some teaching or coaching exeperince either as a parent, classroom assistant or teacher? On Fridays afternoons from 3.30-5.30pm the Centre provides an after-school Homework club during term time. Children from three local primary schools, and a few from Year 7 attend the club.  Many come from families where English is a second language.

Volunteers sit on a table with 1 or 2 children and provide help with their homework, maths and English work mostly, and some reading.  Volunteers commit to one session a week on Friday (3.30 – 5.30pm). 

Our Mission

Each Person Matters: The Cardinal Hume Centre enables families, children and young people to overcome poverty and avoid homelessness.

What are we looking for?

• Ideally you have some experience in teaching, either professionally, voluntary or at home with your own children. 
• You are friendly, patient and can have rapport with children easily.
• Able to help with maths and English at primary school level. 

What is the time commitment?

• Ideally at least one academic term
• Fridays, 3.30 – 5.30pm at The Cardinal Hume Centre and we are trialing an outreach sessions at a local Library & Hotel on otger weekdays

How will you be supported?

• You will be supported by the Family Services staff team. 
• You will have access to wide range of e-learning topics.  Child safeguarding and fire safety awareness is mandatory for all new volunteers.
• You will be reimbursed for travel expenses.

This role is for people who already have some previous experience in people facing roles. We are looking for people who have empathy, are good listeners and are non-judgemental. You will be supporting a small number of clients who have more complex needs and require extra support to get through difficult situations. We are looking for people who have two to four hours a week to spare. You will be offered support in this role by the Partnership.

Support clients by:

• Providing moral support in meetings and making sure the client understands.
• Making phone calls or supporting a client to make calls.
• Helping with form filling and letter writing
• Working with clients on solutions to more complex issues e.g. debt.

Benefits for you:

• Support from a Case Worker Co-ordinator

• Increasing your knowledge of the asylum process and immigration law
• Improving your knowledge of community resources and how to support clients to access them

• Establishing relationship with clients who appreciate someone walking alongside them

If you are interested in becoming a Caseworker please submit your CV and someone from the Partnership will contact you. 

We are looking for a Program Coordinator for our Adult Education Program based in Ioannina, for a minimum commitment of 6 months.

In this role, you’ll be coordinating the implementation of language classes and associated tasks at two refugee camps: Katsikas and Agia Eleni.

The majority of the students are from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The sites have two to four English classes each day, which are differentiated by English ability from A0 to A2. 

Role description

You will…

• Coordinate and manage daily operations of the adult education program
• Develop the program in coordination with the Programs Manager
• Assess impact and effectiveness against program objectives
• Ensure that teachers are equipped with the necessary knowledge to complete their administrative tasks to a high standard and in a timely fashion
• Conduct regular class observations, providing teachers with quality feedback on their teaching
• Provide new teachers with key insights into language teaching in the refugee context
• Ensure inductions to and exits from the education team are smooth and effective, including successful handover of classes between teachers
• Liaise and collaborate with relevant local and national authorities and stakeholders and represent Second Tree in relevant external meetings
• Capture and compile monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) reports in line with program deadlines
• Ensure overall management of the program, guaranteeing quality and relevance

Skills 

You have…

• University Degree in Education/Teaching
• Certificate in English language teaching (TEFL/TESOL/CELTA or equivalent)
• Experience in developing and delivering teacher training

You are able to…

• Oversee the daily activities of the adult education team
• Ensure that teachers’ needs are met and that they in turn meet the requirements of their roles
• Be accountable and efficient, making sure that tasks that you take up are completed in the agreed timeframe
• Be honest and transparent, being able to give and receive feedback in the most straightforward way
• Have a strong sense of humor, being able to make fun of yourself is key
• Care for people, the interests of the people we work with should always be your first concern
• Instil the values above in the people that work with you
• Communicate in English at a C2 level, both written and orally
• Manage individuals effectively to create a positive team environment in which shared problem solving is encouraged
• Prioritise and delegate tasks effectively, ensuring all deadlines are met
• Manage a wide-ranging workload

Knowledge 

You understand and possess knowledge of…

• Education in emergencies concepts
• The refugee crisis and its impact and trajectory
• The needs of refugee students and can adapt content, programming and best practices to meet these needs
• The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and how to develop syllabi in line with it
• Assessment and evaluation procedures, and how to prepare students for language proficiency test
• Adult refugee projects and opportunities for further learning and employment
• Research on adult learning strategies and pedagogies, especially for illiterate or semi-literate adults
• ESL/EFL lesson planning procedures
• ESL/EFL methodologies, theories and techniques
• Your own personal leadership skills/profile and how to effectively manage a team

We offer

• Accommodation in a shared house.
• Transportation to/from work.
• After completion of a three month trial, if you commit long-term, small monthly expenses refund.

In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the volunteer houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the volunteer houses are full, this would allow us to offer a volunteering opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

NOTE: If you require a visa to stay in Greece for the minimum ten-week commitment, please know that as a Greek NGO, we are unable to sponsor your visa.

How to apply:

Please send the following to Giovanni Fontana at: volunteers @ secondtree . org

1. Your CV

2. Your cover letter

3. Copy of your qualifications (If applicable)

In your mail, please:

1. Put “Adult Education Coordinator” as the subject line

2. Specify the dates you would be available to volunteer (starting date and length)

3. At the end of the email, copy-paste the link of the ad you are responding to

If the application includes all of these we will get back to you in a maximum of 48hs.

We are looking for a Social Media Specialist who can strategically identify, and post, engaging content for our social media feeds, which will inspire people to support our work with refugees and asylum seekers in Epirus.

In your role, you will interact with our Instagram and Facebook communities to increase engagement, followers and the quality of their experience. You will also identify key influencers and conversations where we can engage to better showcase our work and expand our reach. You are the person who thinks “this would make a good post” while activities are taking place. More than that, your interest and belief in social media as a force for good should be backed with an interest in data and analytics, using them to influence our social media communication strategy.

Skills Required:

• Strong written and spoken English skills
• Proactive, problem-solving mind-set
• Demonstrable ability to manage a Facebook, Twitter or Instagram feed in a professional capacity
• Ability to demonstrate your success at creating and delivering social media strategies for specific projects
• Ability to show your experience at producing regular reports using Facebook Insights, Twitter Analytics, Google Analytics or similar tools.
• Data-driven and have an evidence-led approach to social media strategy.
• Up-to-date with the latest trends/developments in social media communications.
• Ability to manage and prioritise multiple tasks and respond flexibly.
• Ability to deal with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to identify key influential external figures and agencies to further our social media reach and impact.
• Ability to find creative solutions to communications challenges

Skills Desired:

• Experience working in a refugee context or with a vulnerable population
• Experience working in an NGO, Charity or in the field of human rights
• Language skills: Arabic, Persian, Dari, Sorani and/or Kurmanji

Your responsibilities:

• Regularly post and schedule content on Second Tree’s social media feeds.
• Work with the wider Second Tree team to ensure that all content on our social media feeds aligns with organisational, and specific project strategies.
• Work with Second Tree team to moderate and respond to comments and interact with followers to best develop our online communities.
• Produce regular reports on social media performance.
• Use Google Analytics (or similar) to produce reports on referrals to the Second Tree website and conversions attributable to social content.
• Advise colleagues and help them to develop content strategies based on previous reports and insights
• Develop social media strategies to expand our reach and impact through social media channels
• Identify key social influencers who we can engage with
• Maintain a strong knowledge of developments, innovations, and new tech in social media and identify any that may be of benefit/interest to Second Tree

What We Offer:

• Accommodation with all the basic amenities (WiFi, laundry, kitchen) covered in a shared team house.
• Transportation for work-related activities (if needed)
• Reference letter pending successful completion of engagement

We have two volunteer houses that can host up to nine people where long-term volunteers are accommodated. Some volunteers choose to rent their own accommodation. In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the volunteer houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the volunteer houses are full, this would allow us to offer a volunteering opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

The successful candidate will be encouraged to join us on the ground and immerse themselves in our work. Your participation could take on many forms, from support in the education programs to activities in the kindergarten to the delivery of workshops and expeditions with the Youth Scouts – we look forward to hearing your ideas on how best to apply your skills in this context. By coming here, you would gain a first-hand experience of the situation on the ground, working in a grassroots organization with a small but dedicated team. This immersion will give you a solid sense of our work, our mission and our approach – which would facilitate your ability to attract supporters.

We encourage applicants to work with us on the ground, but even if you cannot physically come to Greece, we will still consider your application.

NOTE: If you require a visa to stay in Greece for the minimum ten-week commitment, please know that as a Greek NGO, we are unable to sponsor your visa.

How to apply

Please send the following to Giovanni Fontana: Volunteers @ secondtree . org

1) Your CV

2) Your cover letter

3) Copy of your qualifications (If applicable)

In your mail, please: 

4) Put “Social Media Specialist” as the subject line

5) Specify the dates you would be available to volunteer (starting date and length)

6) At the end of the email, copy-paste the link of the ad you are responding to 

If the application includes all of these we will get back to you in a maximum of 48hs.

SUMMARY

Roles Description: Finance Trustee, Community Organising and Campaigning Trustee, and Legal Trustee

Remuneration: Like most Trustee roles, these roles are unremunerated

Reports to: Chair of the Board of Trustees

Start date: As soon as possible

Benefits: In addition to making a real difference in the lives of and deepening your understanding of youth organising, you will receive:

• Safeguarding Training and support in developing expertise here
• Reimbursement of expenses incurred in your role

At The Advocacy Academy, we envision a world where young people with lived experience of injustice (LEofI) harness their collective power to shape a more fair, just, and equal society. Our mission is to organise and support these young people to drive systemic change on the most pressing issues of our time.

We do this by offering deep coaching, delivering transformative leadership programmes, and creating clear pathways for sustained action. Through shared learning and community-building, we help young leaders build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to launch and lead proactive campaigns. We also recognise that real change starts from within - so we’re committed to a governance structure that is values-driven, participatory, and beyond reproach, ensuring TAA is as accountable to young people as it is to the communities we serve and its wider responsibilities.

We’re now looking to recruit three new Trustees to join our Board and help steer this work. We're especially keen to hear from people with leadership experience in one or more of the following areas: Finance & Fundraising, Community Organising and Campaigns & Legal

Trustees of The Advocacy Academy play a unique role in delivery of our mission. They are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation, represent it to the community, and accept ultimate compliance authority for the charity and its activities. As a Trustee with experience in the UK’s youth sector, you will support the Board and the Executives in ensuring that TAA continues to deliver an exceptional quality of youth work, and the role that safeguarding plays in achieving this. As a trustee:

• Work with the Chair, Trustees and Senior Leadership team to ensure there is a clear, long-term and strategic vision The Advocacy Academy.
• Work with the Board to ensure we function within the legal and financial requirements of a UK registered charity and company, our constitution and that we strive for best practice
• Take responsibility with the other trustees so that the organisation has effective practice to safeguard the people it works with
• Act as an ambassador, spokesperson and champion our work supporting our income activities, and fostering networks that can help generate income.

About Our Board of Trustees

• Our Board currently consists of four members, recruited, selected, and approved by the Board of Trustees.
• Each trustee serves a three-year term, and we are made up of individuals from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.
• The Board meets quarterly (four times per year) to provide strategic oversight and governance. Operations/day to day are managed by the Executives.
• Given the size of the board, we expect all trustees to join at least one subcommittees meeting per year, unless there are extenuating circumstances. .The subcommittee meets are typically held prior to full Board meetings.
• Board meetings are held at our Liberation Centre in Brixton and subcommittee meets are held virtually
• The role of trustee is voluntary, though reasonable expenses are reimbursed.2• Trustees are expected to prepare in advance by reading reports and meeting papers, and are also warmly invited to attend our events throughout the year.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

1. Finance Trustee - Trustee will provide charity financial governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Finance Director and the Finance & Risk Committee will:

• Provide support on financial oversight and ensure compliance with relevant charity and regulatory requirements.
• Review and co-present financial reports and key insights to the Board of Trustees.
• Actively participate in the Finance and Risk Committee, ensuring effective financial scrutiny.
• Strategic contribution to long-term financial and fundraising planning and support the organisation’s risk management framework.
• Attend Finance and Risk subcommittee meetings quarterly.

2. Community Organising and Campaigning Trustee - The Community organising and campaigning Trustee will provide organising and Campaigns governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Director of Organising and Campaigns and fellow trustees, they will:

• Provide strategic oversight of The Advocacy Academy’s organising and campaigning activities and priorities.
• Ensure campaigns are ethical, legally compliant, and aligned with the organisation’s values.
• Support the development of effective, youth-led organising and campaigning strategies.
• Offer insight into advocacy trends, movement-building, and political landscapes.
• Serve as a sounding board for the team, offering critical friend feedback without operational interference.
• Help the board assess risks and opportunities related to public positioning, reputation, and partnerships.
• Good governance, diversity and teamwork are at the core of the Board’s values. We want to ensure trustees represent the young people we work with and we are particularly interested in applications from people with lived experience.

3. Legal Trustee - The Legal Trustees will provide Legal perspective on governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Trustees, they will:

• Provide strategic legal perspective on compliance with charity law, employment law, using legal knowledge or by signposting to our external legal support.
• Provide legal perspective on any strategic decisions the board makes, which the board can then pursue formal legal advice on.
• Provide legal perspective on risk related to public campaigning, partnerships and public communications.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

1. Finance Trustee -

• Proven expertise in charity fundraising and financial management.
• Experience of charity finance and fundraising is essential.
• Previous board or trustee experience.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

2. Community Organising and Campaigning Trustee -

• Understanding of power-building, community organising, or movement strategy (essential).
• Experience in grassroots organising and campaigns, advocacy, or social justice movements.3• Familiarity with political or social justice contexts in the UK.
• Willingness to support youth leadership and work in solidarity with young campaigners.
• Previous board or governance experience is helpful but not essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

3. Legal Trustee -

• Qualified legal professional (e.g. solicitor, barrister, legal academic) with UK-based experience.
• Knowledge of charity, or employment law desirable.
• Experience in risk, governance, or compliance, particularly in the charity sector.
• A commitment to social justice and supporting youth organising work.
• Ability to translate legal concepts clearly for non-specialist trustees.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

EXPECTATIONS & ENTITLEMENT

• Attend at least one training programme that we run, so that you understand the work we deliver
• Attend trustee meetings, which are held four times a year in London or virtually, and last between 3 expected to attend at least three each year.
• Participate in one of our sub-committees as may be required by the trustee role.
• Demonstrate commitment to The Advocacy Academy by supporting fundraising efforts.
• Serve for a term of three years and be able to stand for re-election for a further term and possibly two.
• Work with the Chair to review your performance
• Claim reasonable travel and accommodation expenses to attend meetings -4 hours - trustees are expected to attend at least three each year.
• This is an outline of the responsibilities and duties of the Trustee roles, it is not intended as an exhaustive list and may change from time to time to meet the changing needs of The Advocacy Academy’s board. Any changes will be made in consultation with the post holders.

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply to be our Trustee by sending your CV together with a supporting statement to us. Your supporting statement should explain why you would like to be our Trustee and the contribution you believe you would make to The Advocacy Academy, with particular reference to the specific Trustee role and Requirements above.

DATES

• •Closing Date: The deadline for applications is 7th October 2025 by 9am.

Please note that there will be two rounds of interviews, and we will be conducting interviews on a rolling basis as applications are received. The application deadline may be brought forward if suitable candidates are identified early.

NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US

We aim to be representative of the community we are working with. We encourage applications from people of colour, those who identify as LGBTQIA, working class as well as disabled people, those living with mental health conditions, refugees and migrants. We welcome people from all identities who are made to feel marginalised.

We’re not just committed to being an equal opportunity employer, we actively celebrate diversity in all its forms. Let us know if we can do anything to make the application or interview process more accessible. If you are invited to interview, we will at that point ask you for any accessibility requirements or preferences.

As an employer we make all reasonable adjustments to support employees in their work if they are disabled or have a health condition. We support the Access to Work scheme which could provide you with financial support to get the help you need to do all tasks successfully. We are happy to facilitate Access to Work assessments and reclaims, and would actively welcome applicants who would need this in order to do the job.

All staff who work on our programme must have, prior to starting work, a returned satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dated no earlier than 1st January 2021. The Advocacy Academy will assist the application for, and pay for the processing of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

We welcome applications from people with convictions. Please disclose in your application if you have any convictions, cautions, reprimands or final warnings that are not “protected” (as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 

Events Officer has the responisbility of organising (along with the help of a Trustee Events Manager) our magical visits to children/adults with LD, this could be at the hospital, social groups, refugee centres, libraries etc etc.

They will monitor the chapter email for submitted event booking forms (some of these will come from events organised by the Events Manager on Trustees). These will then be added to the calendar and advertised to volunteers. They will ensure each event organised has a handful of volunteers confirmed within a week of the event itself. They will then provide information and support to a Lead Volunteer to run the events. They will ensure that regular events are being attended by volunteers and that they have the costume and materials that are needed for these. They will follow up after events to ensure social media posts are made, hours are uploaded and that costumes are returned. They will ensure that all volunteers are attending events.

Events Officer has the responisbility of organising (along with the help of a Trustee Events Manager) our magical visits to children/adults with LD, this could be at the hospital, social groups, refugee centres, libraries etc etc.

They will monitor the chapter email for submitted event booking forms (some of these will come from events organised by the Events Manager on Trustees). These will then be added to the calendar and advertised to volunteers. They will ensure each event organised has a handful of volunteers confirmed within a week of the event itself. They will then provide information and support to a Lead Volunteer to run the events. They will ensure that regular events are being attended by volunteers and that they have the costume and materials that are needed for these. They will follow up after events to ensure social media posts are made, hours are uploaded and that costumes are returned. They will ensure that all volunteers are attending events.

Events Officer has the responisbility of organising (along with the help of a Trustee Events Manager) our magical visits to children/adults with LD, this could be at the hospital, social groups, refugee centres, libraries etc etc.

They will monitor the chapter email for submitted event booking forms (some of these will come from events organised by the Events Manager on Trustees). These will then be added to the calendar and advertised to volunteers. They will ensure each event organised has a handful of volunteers confirmed within a week of the event itself. They will then provide information and support to a Lead Volunteer to run the events. They will ensure that regular events are being attended by volunteers and that they have the costume and materials that are needed for these. They will follow up after events to ensure social media posts are made, hours are uploaded and that costumes are returned. They will ensure that all volunteers are attending events.

CFAB Experts by Experience Advisory Group Member

Volunteer role

Could you be part of our Experts by Experience Advisory Group to help make a positive contribution to our efforts to protect children and reunite them with family overseas?

Children and Families Across Borders protects children who have become separated from their families across international borders. As the UK member of the International Social Service network, our specialist team inter-country social workers, work with over 130 partners around the globe to reunite families. Our work is complex but life changing.

CFAB is creating an Experts by Experience Advisory Group and is looking for people to join and support our work. The purpose of our engagement would be to would be to embed the voices and insights of individuals with direct and personal experience of aspects of our work into the service design and decision-making processes within CFAB. We believe that the insights and input from those with experience of our work will help to ensure that our services, our strategies and our messaging are grounded in real needs and experiences rather than assumptions and ultimately lead to better outcomes for children.

We would consider individuals with direct, personal experience of international kinship care, international adoption, alternative care, international migration and asylum as experts by experience.

Requirements:

The Advisory Group will meet twice per year (either remotely or in person) and there will also be opportunities to feed in and participate in other ad hoc projects.

Experts by Experience will:

• Provide advice and recommendations on policy, program design, and delivery.
• Review and contribute to strategic documents, reports, and evaluations.
• Identify opportunities for co-production and co-design within the organization.
• Act as advocates and champions for the integration of lived experience.
• Ensure diverse experiences are represented and inform inclusive practices.

What can we offer you?

Though this is a voluntary role, your participation will be compensated. Expenses will also be covered in line with CFAB’s expenses policy.

We will ensure we offer pre and post meeting support to experts to identify and reflect on any issues that require processing.

We will provide training to support your skills development based on the opportunities you would like to be involved with. We will share with you the impact of your participation on our work.

This is an exciting opportunity to become involved in a prestigious charity at the forefront of key issues on child protection. Founded in 1955, Children and Families Across Borders (CFAB) helps vulnerable children who are separated from their family overseas.

We are looking for a new trustee, preferably with public affairs and stakeholder management expertise, to help us deliver on our ambitious new strategy. 

Background:

CFAB is a unique charity that has the capacity to change the lives of vulnerable children at a time when demand for its services is growing year on year. We are led by a dedicated and committed staff and a Board of Trustees who have built on the organisation’s longstanding record of achievement to position us firmly for the future. With a balanced budget and strong reserves, CFAB can now achieve more by increasing its earned income to deliver direct services, by growing its philanthropic funds to reach more children who find themselves outside the system, and by expanding its training offer to strengthen our role as a sector leader in this specialist field.

What makes CFAB Special: 

CFAB is the only charity in the UK with a specially qualified children’s international social work team. We use expertise gathered over 70 years to ensure that vulnerable children are cared for and protected, no matter where they come from. We operate through our International Social Service network to professionally evaluate care options in more than 120 countries – giving children with family overseas the best possible chance of a secure, stable and loving home – and wherever possible reuniting them with family members. 

CFAB runs the UK’s only professional, free Advice Line dedicated to international child protection, and provides specialist consultancy to help resolve complex international cases. CFAB also provides training to disseminate learning on how best to manage inter-country social work cases involving children and families. We also advocate for legislation and best practice to meet children’s needs and to ensure families separated by international borders are supported to reunite when this is in the child’s best interests. 

Who we are looking for:

If you have an interest in child protection or children’s rights, as well as a background in public affairs or stakeholder management, we’d love to hear from you. This is a chance to be a trustee for a well-known charity that is making a real difference in children’s lives. You’ll be joining a dedicated and friendly group of trustees with a diverse range of skills and backgrounds. The board recently agreed on an ambitious new strategy that emphasises the enhancement of CFAB’s public profile. We are looking for trustees who can help us deliver on that, through their expertise and enthusiasm. 

We welcome applications from those who are experience trustees as well as those who do not have previous experience as a trustee, but who have relevant personal experience and are willing to show a commitment to CFAB and our mission. 

To make an application, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining how you meet the Person Specification requirements. We will be holding interviews on a rolling basis, with a view to appointing someone by October 2025.

Role Description: 

A. Public Affairs and Stakeholder Management Trustee Role Description

Role description 

The Trustee should:

1. provide leadership to the Board in the area of public affairs, policy and stakeholder management. This could include a focus on PR, public affairs, external communications or local government engagement. You do not need to have experience in all areas.
2. monitor decisions made at the Board in relation to Public Affairs and Policy work and ensure that they are implemented
3. assist in setting the strategy of the organisation and in setting and monitoring performance against targets.
4. actively participate as the key member of the sub-committee of the Board
5. assist in securing additional exposure of CFAB’s work, particularly through facilitating opportunities with press, guiding digital publications (whether social media or online media opportunities) and amplifying CFAB’s voice with relevant audiences, including local and national government or supporters 

As with all Trustees, this Trustee is also responsible for:

• ensuring CFAB complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations 
• ensuring CFAB pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association, and that it uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects
• ensuring CFAB operates within the parameters laid down by the CFAB Governance Manual
• safeguarding the reputation and values of CFAB  
• ensuring the financial stability of CFAB and its effective and efficient administration  
• protecting and managing the property of CFAB and ensuring proper investment of funds
• appointing and monitoring the performance of the Chief Executive
• representing CFAB externally

Every Trustee is asked to use their specific skills, knowledge and professional experience to help the Board of Trustees collectively reach sound decisions.

This includes ensuring Trustees: 

• scrutinise Board papers and actively contribute to Board discussion
• participate in relevant committees 
• respond to any request from the CEO, for advice and support to the CEO or other team members on specific initiatives
•  remain conscious of any conflicts of loyalty or interest.
•  take decisions solely with the best interests of CFAB in mind. 

B. Person Specification

The Trustee should bring to CFAB a skill mix appropriate to the governance of CFAB, including: 

1. Public Affairs Strategy

• Experience developing and advising on public affairs strategies that influence policy and public service priorities.
• Understanding of how to align public affairs with organisational goals and impact measurement.

2. Policy Understanding 

• Strong grasp of local government structures, priorities, and decision-making processes.
• Knowledge of policy areas relevant to the charity’s mission (e.g. safeguarding, family services, children’s welfare).

3. Stakeholder Mapping and Engagement

• Ability to identify, map, and prioritise key stakeholders including local authorities, elected officials, council executives, and public sector partners.
• Strategic thinking around managing and nurturing high-value relationships over time. 

4. Local Authority Relations

• ​Experience working within or alongside local authorities.
• Understanding of commissioning processes, partnership frameworks, and funding mechanisms in local government. 

5. Advocacy and Influence

• Experience in shaping public debate, contributing to consultations, or influencing policy outcomes.
• Confidence in representing the charity at public meetings, sector forums, or roundtables.

6. Communication Skills 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for engaging with senior stakeholders, writing policy briefings, and contributing to thought leadership.
• Ability to distil complex policy issues into accessible messages. 

7. Strategic Governance Insight 

• Understanding of the role of a trustee in public affairs oversight (e.g. ensuring activity is compliant with charity law).
• Ability to challenge and support the executive team in shaping an ethical and impacƞul engagement strategy. 

8. Political Acumen

• Awareness of the political landscape at local and national levels, including the ability to identify risks and opportunities for engagement.
• Insight into how local priorities may shift due to political changes or economic pressures. 

9. Crisis and Issues Management

• Experience supporting or advising on responses to public scrutiny, policy changes, or contentious issues involving local authorities. 

10. Collaboration and Diplomacy

• Skilled at building consensus across diverse stakeholders.
• Sensitive to the reputational considerations of engaging with public bodies. 

11. A clear commitment to CFAB’s values and beliefs and the fulfilment of its mission 

C. Commitment

CFAB has four regular Board meetings per year of which one is held concurrent with the AGM. There is also a Marketing committee which meets four times per year, which the Trustee should attend wherever possible. Additional Extraordinary Board meetings may be called as necessary. Other trustees will participate in committees including: Finance & HR, Fundraising and Policy & Practice. Overall time commitment is approximately 2 – 3 hours a month.