Support Officer Volunteer Roles in Edinburgh

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.

Shannon Trust Volunteer Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (EDIB) Volunteer

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy levels amongst people in prison?

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning.  As our Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (EDIB) Volunteer your role will help us to make this a reality by providing support with a variety of EDIB administrative tasks. This will include supporting with organising EDIB meetings, training and events, taking minutes for EDIB meetings and focus groups, explore EDIB data and information, and other EDIB related admin tasks as needed. We are seeking a proactive, committed, and enthusiastic individual to join our team and help us continue our journey.

This is a home-based role and we are looking for a volunteer who can commit to 7 hours per week on a consistent and reliable basis - the role has been listed as permanent however this is a voluntary role only. The individual will ideally have previous experience of working with a Diversity and Inclusion role or is keen to gain experience.  The ideal candidate will have an awarenss of religous and cultural events, able to operate relevant IT applications including Microsoft Office, have experience of working under pressure and to deadlines and have access to a personal laptop and homeworking space. 

Volunteer benefits include; induction training and ongoing training, support and development in the role, flexible working, recognition for your contribution and reimbursement of expenses where applicable. The biggest benefit though is our culture – our people really want to work for the organisation.

We welcome volunteer applications from people with lived experience of the criminal justice system and do not routinely ask for details of any criminal convictions.

Closing date: Midnight Monday 3 March - Please note interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis and we may close this vacancy early. 

We're looking for a new Chair of Trustees to lead The Jo Cox Foundation as we continue making meaningful change on issues that the late Jo Cox MP was passionate about. We are looking for a high-profile, influential and well networked leader to support the development of the Foundation through our next phase.

Who we are

The Jo Cox Foundation makes meaningful change on issues that the late Jo Cox MP was passionate about.

We are a small charity and, like Jo, we believe that a kinder, fairer and more connected world is possible. Underpinning this belief is the understanding that we have more in common than that which divides us. As we work to make change, we follow Jo’s example of collaborating with others and bringing people together to achieve more than we can alone.

We work in three areas: we nurture stronger communities, champion respect in politics, and advocate for a fairer world.

About the role

The role of the Chair is to work in partnership with the CEO and the rest of the Board to provide strategic leadership for The Jo Cox Foundation, and to develop a high performing Board of Trustees to ensure the effective governance of the organisation.

This is an unpaid, voluntary role. The Jo Cox Foundation will pay reasonable out of pocket expenses, including travel expenses.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for a high-profile, influential and well networked individual to lead our Board of Trustees. You’ll be willing to use your personal profile and networks to support the development of the Foundation through our next phase, helping us to grow our income, activities and impact, as we continue our work on areas that Jo was passionate about.

In addition, you will have strongly held personal values which align with The Jo Cox Foundation’s vision and Jo’s ‘more in common’ ethos. These will be reflected in your respect for others and the desire to make a truly positive contribution through your work.

Applications should be made before close of business on Friday 14th March. Applications received after that day may be considered but that is not guaranteed.

Aspens are looking for trustees to join us on the next exciting part of our journey. We'd love to hear from you if you have accountancy, social care, business development or fundraising experience.

What will you be doing?

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism? Do you have the skills, experience, and dedication to help guide a forward-thinking charity? If so, we’d love to hear from you!

About Aspens CharitiesAt Aspens we provide high quality care and support to people on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities; and their families; meeting their needs and aspirations and empowering them to learn and grow through an integrated network of services across the South-East.

Why Become a Trustee?As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in overseeing the governance and strategic direction of Aspens Charities. You will work alongside a committed Board to ensure our services remain impactful, sustainable, and aligned with our core values.

Your Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership, ensuring Aspens meets its charitable objectives.
• Oversee financial management, risk assessment, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
• Support and challenge the Executive Team to drive excellence in service delivery.
• Act as an ambassador for Aspens, promoting our work and values.
• Attend Board meetings and contribute to key strategic decisions.

What We’re Looking For:We welcome applications from individuals with diverse professional backgrounds. Key attributes include:

• A strong commitment to the aims and values of Aspens Charities.
• Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
• Willingness to dedicate time to Board meetings and governance activities.
• Integrity, good judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively.

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• Accountancy
• Health & Social Care sector knowledge
• Fundraising and business development

Time Commitment & LocationThis is a voluntary, unpaid role with reasonable expenses covered. The Board meets approximately three times a year, with 3 committee meetings and occasional additional meetings or events. Meetings are held in person and virtually.

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to the goals and aims of the charity. 
• Dedication to the role and a willingness to devote the required time. 
• The ability to make good independent judgements. 
• Being able to think creatively. 
• Understanding the importance of carrying out required legal duties. 
• Proven strategic abilities that can be used to create effective plans. 
• Strength of character coupled with the ability to voice concerns and opinions.
• Proven experience working as a member of successful teams. 
• Integrity and objectivity which can be applied to all aspects of the role.

Experience of either accountancy or fundraising / income generation. 

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, your leadership will directly shape the future of Aspens Charities and the lives of the people we support. You will help:

• Improve Quality of Care – Ensuring individuals with learning disabilities and autism receive the best possible support.
• Drive Strategic Growth – Expanding and developing services to reach more people in need.
• Ensure Financial Sustainability – Overseeing resources to secure long-term impact.
• Strengthen Governance – Upholding transparency, compliance, and ethical leadership.

Your expertise will make a lasting difference, creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.

Make a lasting impact on future generations and your community, by becoming a governor for your local college.

Peridot Partners have partnered with the Department of Education to revolutionise the education governance sector, by appointing 137 new governors to college boards across England.

Education governors come from all backgrounds and sectors with either professional or lived experience that can help the board to make their decisions. A passion for education and future generations is a must, but you don’t need to have any experience in the education sector to become a governor.

Being an education governor or trustee is a rewarding and fulfilling venture for any of us. You don’t need to be a Chief Executive, a senior leader or even an educationalist to join the ever-growing pool of people who regularly attend board and committee meetings to influence and impact the quality of education delivered by our schools, sixth forms, further education colleges and universities. 

As an education governor, you will draw on the professional experience of your working career and your own life experiences to support and challenge the strategic direction of the organisation. You will reflect on the lessons that you have learnt through education, work and life to ask questions and understand how decisions being made on an operational level will and could impact the students and their potential for achievement.

Peridot Partners and the Department of Education are, together, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate(s) will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can see the available opportunities and register your interest. 

Tafara Wellness Initiative

We are dedicated to empowering women and children in African communities to overcome mental health challenges and cultivate resilience and joy through providing free counselling.

Africa has a serious mental health issue that has to be addressed right away as the continent has the highest suicide rate in the world, estimated at 11.2 per 100,000 people, despite a moderate reduction over the past ten years (far above the global average of 9.0 per 100,000). Part of the mental health emergency is due to the AIDS epidemic, widespread poverty, and a lack of mental health resources and infrastructure. Providing mental health is essential for sustainable development as it enables individuals to pursue education, maintain employment and contribute positively to their communities. For women and children specifically, better mental health can lead to improved family dynamics, increased school attendance, and greater economic participation.

The Tafara Wellness Initiative looks to address the mental health crisis and build more resilient and thriving communities in Africa through:

• Ensuring women and children in Africa have access to timely, appropriate and tailored psychological and mental wellness programs that enable them to thrive.
• Expanding communal support and awareness for mental health and eliminate stigmas around mental health in African communities

Grant Writer

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Tafara Wellness Initiative is a nonprofit dedicated to providing trauma-informed care to women and children in Africa. Our mission is to support healing, resilience, and empowerment in underserved communities. By delivering evidence-based therapy and wellness services, we aim to create safe and nurturing environments where individuals and families can thrive. Through research, partnerships, and advocacy, we strive to maximise our impact and bring meaningful change to those who need it most.

Role Summary:

We are seeking an experienced volunteer Grant Writer to support our fundraising efforts by researching, writing, and submitting grant applications. Your work will be instrumental in securing funding that allows us to expand our services and support more women and children in need.

Key Responsibilities:

-Identify relevant grant opportunities from foundations, corporations, and government entities.

-Write compelling grant proposals that align with funding priorities and organisational goals.

-Maintain and update a database of grant deadlines and submission requirements.

-Collaborate with the team to gather necessary information and documentation.

-Track and report on submitted proposals and funding outcomes.

Skills & Qualifications:

-Proven experience in grant writing, preferably for nonprofits.

-Strong research and analytical skills.

-Excellent written communication and persuasive writing abilities.

-Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

-Familiarity with grant databases and funding sources is a plus.

Weekly Time Commitment

4-6 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

6+ months

Tafara Wellness Initiative

We are dedicated to empowering women and children in African communities to overcome mental health challenges and cultivate resilience and joy through providing free counselling.

Africa has a serious mental health issue that has to be addressed right away as the continent has the highest suicide rate in the world, estimated at 11.2 per 100,000 people, despite a moderate reduction over the past ten years (far above the global average of 9.0 per 100,000). Part of the mental health emergency is due to the AIDS epidemic, widespread poverty, and a lack of mental health resources and infrastructure. Providing mental health is essential for sustainable development as it enables individuals to pursue education, maintain employment and contribute positively to their communities. For women and children specifically, better mental health can lead to improved family dynamics, increased school attendance, and greater economic participation.

The Tafara Wellness Initiative looks to address the mental health crisis and build more resilient and thriving communities in Africa through:

• Ensuring women and children in Africa have access to timely, appropriate and tailored psychological and mental wellness programs that enable them to thrive.
• Expanding communal support and awareness for mental health and eliminate stigmas around mental health in African communities

Grant & Partnership Researcher

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Tafara Wellness Initiative is a nonprofit dedicated to providing trauma-informed care to women and children in Africa. Our mission is to support healing, resilience, and empowerment in underserved communities. By delivering evidence-based therapy and wellness services, we aim to create safe and nurturing environments where individuals and families can thrive. Through research, partnerships, and advocacy, we strive to maximise our impact and bring meaningful change to those who need it most.

Role Summary: We are looking for a detail-oriented volunteer Grant & Partnership Researcher to support our efforts in identifying funding opportunities and potential partnerships. Your research will help us expand our network, secure resources, and strengthen our impact.

Key Responsibilities:

-Conduct research on grant opportunities, donors, and potential funding sources.

-Identify and assess partnership opportunities with organisations aligned with our mission.

-Maintain an organised database of funding leads and partnership contacts.

-Provide summaries and recommendations based on research findings.

-Support the grant writing team with relevant background information.

Skills & Qualifications:

-Strong research and analytical skills.

-Ability to evaluate funding opportunities and partnership potential.

-Experience in nonprofit fundraising or development is a plus.

-Organised, detail-oriented, and able to work independently.

-Proficiency in using online databases and research tools.

Weekly Time Commitment

7-9 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

6+ months

Job Purpose:

As a Fundraising Trustee, you will play a critical role in shaping and delivering the fundraising strategy of Animal Action Greece. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and the executive team, you will provide strategic oversight, advice, and support to enhance our income generation activities and ensure financial sustainability.

About the charity:

As a small charity, we operate in two countries, in two languages but work as one team, one organisation and with one purpose – seeking to improve animal welfare in Greece. Animal Action Greece is a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales with Company number 881216 and charity number 233574. Our registered office is at 51 Borough High Street, SE1 1NB, London, UK.

Animal Action Greece operates in Greece through its civil non-profit company (A.M.K.E.) with a distinctive name «Animal Action Hellas AMKE» which is registered at the general business register (G.E.MI) under Number 160831407000, with a registered office of D. Falireos 43, Neo Faliro 18547, Athens, Greece. In Greek, our name is «Δράση για τα Ζώα στην Ελλάδα A.M.K.E» / «Drási gia ta Zóa stin Elláda A.M.K.E».

Since 1959, Animal Action Greece has been dedicated to the prevention and relief of cruelty and suffering amongst animals in Greece. Our vision is for Greece to become a nation where people care about the quality of animals’ lives. As the longest-serving national animal welfare charity in Greece, we have transformed thousands of animals’ lives—but our work is far from over. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and promote long-term change in attitudes towards animal welfare at every level of Greek society.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership on fundraising, ensuring alignment with the charity’s mission and objectives.
• Support the development and implementation of a sustainable fundraising strategy, covering individual giving, corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, major donors, and digital campaigns.
• Advise on innovative fundraising approaches and opportunities to diversify revenue streams.
• Assist in building relationships with key donors, funders, and stakeholders to secure long-term support.
• Ensure compliance with relevant fundraising regulations and best practices.
• Advocate for the charity’s work, leveraging personal and professional networks to raise awareness and secure funding opportunities.
• Monitor and evaluate fundraising performance, providing recommendations for improvement.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Proven experience in fundraising, business development, or income generation, preferably in the non-profit sector.
• Understanding of different fundraising methods, including digital fundraising, major giving, and grant applications.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify and maximize fundraising opportunities.
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills.
• Passionate about animal welfare and committed to the mission of Animal Action Greece.
• Willingness to contribute time, expertise, and contacts to support the charity’s growth.

Desirable:

• Experience working at a trustee or board level.
• Knowledge of fundraising regulations and governance.
• Established networks within philanthropy, corporate giving, or grant-making bodies.
• Experience in marketing, communications, or public relations related to fundraising.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to make a significant impact on animal welfare in Greece.
• A collaborative and passionate team dedicated to driving change.
• The chance to use your skills and expertise to develop and grow a respected charity.
• The ability to expand your professional network and gain board-level experience.

About I Have a Voice

At I Have a Voice, we are passionate about empowering young people to engage with politics and have a say in the decisions that shape their lives. We break down barriers to political participation through education, advocacy, and grassroots campaigns—ensuring that young people, regardless of background, feel confident and equipped to influence change.

From working with schools to delivering training and amplifying youth voices on key policy issues, our work is making politics more accessible, diverse, and representative. As we grow, we are looking for committed and experienced individuals to join our Board and help shape our strategic direction.

Why Join Our Board?

This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in a dynamic, purpose-driven organisation at the forefront of youth political engagement. As a Board Member, you will:

• Influence the growth and sustainability of I Have a Voice.
• Help shape our strategy to expand our impact and reach.
• Guide governance and financial sustainability, ensuring strong and effective decision-making.
• Be part of an inspiring network of changemakers dedicated to democracy, education, and empowerment.

We are particularly keen to hear from individuals with expertise in:

• Governance – ensuring strong organisational leadership and compliance.
• Fundraising & Development – securing sustainable income and forging key partnerships.
• Education – deepening our impact in schools and the wider education sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight: Help shape and refine I Have a Voice’s strategic priorities.
• Governance & Compliance: Ensure we meet legal and ethical responsibilities as a nonprofit.
• Fundraising & Partnerships: Support initiatives to secure funding and build strategic relationships.
• Advocacy & Influence: Champion I Have a Voice’s mission and expand our network of supporters.
• Advisory Role: Provide guidance and mentorship to the leadership team where needed.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from passionate individuals who share our vision of a more engaged and empowered generation of young people. You might have experience as a board member or trustee, in school leadership, policy work, fundraising, or nonprofit governance. Above all, you should be:

• Committed to youth political engagement and democratic participation.
• A strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills.
• Willing to actively contribute to Board discussions and initiatives.
• Well-connected within governance, fundraising, or education sectors (desirable).

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that is reflective of the communities we work with - from across the UK, lower socioeconomic households and racially marginalised groups.

Who we are

MS is a neurological condition affecting the central nervous system creating a wide range of symptoms which vary greatly from person to person.

We work with the MS community, supporting them to make the right choices for themselves about how to manage the impact of their MS and live a life as close as possible to how they wish.

The role
Following our most recent skills audit, we are looking to recruit two or three new trustees to
supplement our combined skill set.

Whilst we are keen to hear from people with a passion for supporting the MS community, we are open to applications from people that can bring specific skills where we have identified gaps also.These include, but are not limited to:

• Health/ holistic healthcare
• Legal
• Fundraising
• Hands on social media implementation and optimisation
• Data strategy and technology

Shout out for help with eCommerce

Barking Mad Goodies is our online shop to support our rescue work in Romania. Can you help us build it up?  Are you a Shopify/eCommerce specialist?  Asides from our superb, branded grain free dog food (which we are so proud of!), we are expanding our range of dog treats and sundries as fast as we can. Running the rescue takes all our time and energy which means we so need help with building our shop.

We are looking for volunteer help with someone familiar with Shopify who can help us jazz up our shop, build our customer base through email marketing and social media, help craft google ads and more,  thus helping us help more dogs in need. This role may involve three or four hours max to start, but once things are in place, probably one or two.

All profits from the shop go back to our dog rescue.

Candidates should have proven experience in eCommerce, email marketing and Google Ads 

Reasonable expenses with prior agreement covered, but there shouldn't be any, we hope! We have 500 dogs to feed daily. 

We are looking for a Digital Advertising and Commerce Specialist Volunteer to join our team and help us enhance our online visibility, drive more donations, and raise awareness for our wildlife and welfare initiatives. This volunteer position is perfect for someone with a passion for digital marketing and a desire to contribute to a meaningful cause.

As a volunteer, you will help manage and optimise our Google Ads campaigns, Google Merchant account, and Facebook Commerce presence. Your efforts will directly contribute to increasing traffic to our website, improving conversion rates, and supporting our fundraising efforts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Google Ad Grants & Google Ads: Optimise Google Ads campaigns within the Google Ad Grants programme. Ensure the campaigns are aligned with our goals and meet Google’s guidelines for non-profits.
• Google Merchant Center: Maintain our Google Merchant Center account, manage product feeds, and optimise for visibility in Google Shopping.
• Facebook Commerce: Optimise Facebook Commerce to expand our reach and engage with potential donors and supporters through Facebook’s e-commerce platform.
• Digital Advertising Strategy: Develop a digital advertising strategy across Google Ads, Google Merchant, and Facebook Commerce. This will include keyword research, ad copywriting, audience targeting, and more.
• Campaign Optimization: Continuously monitor and optimise all digital advertising campaigns for improved performance, clicks, conversions, and ROI.
• Collaboration: Work with our communications and fundraising teams to identify key initiatives and align digital marketing efforts with our charitable goals.

What We’re Looking For:

• Experience with Google Ad Grants & Google Ads – Knowledge of managing Google Ads campaigns and experience with the Google Ad Grants platform (preferred).
• Google Merchant Center & Facebook Commerce – Understanding of managing product feeds in Google Merchant Center and running Facebook Commerce shop.
• Digital Advertising Knowledge – A good understanding of digital advertising practices including keyword research, ad targeting, and performance optimization.
• Passion for Wildlife & Animal Welfare – A genuine passion for our cause and a desire to make a tangible impact on animal welfare and conservation efforts.
• Proactive & Self-Motivated – Ability to work independently and take initiative in a remote work environment.
• Excellent Communication Skills – Strong written and verbal communication skills to craft compelling ad copy and collaborate with the team.

We are looking for passionate individuals with a variety of skills and expertise. Currently, we are specifically looking for Trustees who can support the following areas:

Children & Young People
Digital & IT
Finance
Human Resources
Legal & Compliance

However, we will welcome applications from anyone who is keen to transform lives and join us on this exciting journey with us. You don’t need prior experience of sitting on a Board, a dance background or specific qualifications to become a Trustee. What matters most is your passion for supporting people with learning disabilities, your commitment to building a more equitable society and your willingness to contribute to our work, our vision and our future success.

Trustees play a crucial role in shaping what we do, helping us stay clear on our purpose and offering ideas that guide our organisation as we grow. We’re looking for Trustees who can bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights from their lived and professional experiences. We want our Board to reflect the diversity of our work, our participants, and our supporters.

We are based in Lancashire, with national and international reach, and we welcome applications for remote Trustees. We currently have Trustees based in Portugal and the Netherlands.

The role of Trustee is a volunteer role and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses for travel may be claimed.

The role requires attendance & contribution at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and four Board meetings per year (plus any required preparation and pre-reading). Quarterly Board Meetings take place mostly online and periodically in person at a North West location.

There will also be potential additional engagement in strategy work and sub working groups throughout the year and occasional representation of the charity at various events with key stakeholders.

The Community Liaison Officer plays a crucial role in responding to enquiries from our key stakeholders, such as individual and corporate donors, community fundraisers, volunteers and guests. By providing compassionate customer service, they help to raise awareness of the mission of the food bank, drive donations and support those in need. 

Hours: ~3 hours a week: to be done around your own schedule and chosen hours. Includes a fortnightly 1-hour team Zoom meeting.

Location: Remote

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 1,500 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items to build a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people who find themselves in a crisis situation where they need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

Job description:

• Answering all social media messages and emails from the community, guests, donors, businesses and volunteers with enthusiasm and compassion.

• Providing a positive experience for our potential guests by helping them to understand the processes at the food bank or how they can access other support if they live outside our remit.

• Responding to messages and emails in a timely, efficient and professional manner.

• Problem-solving – taking ownership of each query, liaising with coordinators from other teams when suitable to ensure these are resolved.

• Supporting fellow members of the Communications Team.

Person specification:

• Experience in a customer service role.

• Excellent written communication skills.

• An understanding of the challenges that food bank users face, from food and fuel poverty to feelings of shame and embarrassment.

• An understanding of GDPR, customer confidentiality and handling sensitive information.

• A passion for supporting the community and social equality.

Benefits:

• Flexible hours - fit around your own schedule!

• Work from the comfort of your own home

• Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!

• Gain access to free workshops for volunteers and upskill on a range of topics (conflict resolution, mental health first aid, arts and crafts, and more)

• Join free social events for volunteers (such as picnics, walks, games nights and celebration events)

• Gain a sense of community and meet the huge team of volunteers