Supporter Communications Manager Volunteer Roles

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind

About Sense

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

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

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

Charity Shop Assistant (SW18 4SR or SW18 4JB)

Our branch charity shops are in the heart of Wandsworth and Earlsfield and we’re looking for friendly volunteers to join our team and keep our shops successful and a place to visit for the community. Make new friends, have fun, and help us help more animals!

Overview of opportunity

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager and other volunteers to help raise vital funds for our local animal welfare work. 

About the RSPCA

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

Our Branch

We are just one of over 150 branches of RSPCA, we are also a separately registered charity to the National RSPCA and raise our own money locally to fund our animal welfare work to prevent cruelty, promote kindness and rescue, rehabilitate & rehome animals in need in our branch area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches like us, which is run by a committee of volunteers. Our shops play an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community and funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work. Our shops sell all sorts of donated items including clothes, books, bric-a-brac and collectables. We have positions available on the shop floor and in our stock room or you could volunteer to do a mixture of both. 

Role Responsibilities:

You will support our shop managers and provide assistance to our valued customers;

• Helping customers in the shop find what they need
• Accepting donations of items and money from the public
• Processing sales through the till and card machine, including Gift Aid
• Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell
• Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging and items
• Merchandising stock on the shop floor
• Creating attractive shop window displays

What we are looking for:

As a shop assistant you will enjoy interacting with people and making money for a good cause, you will be;

• Friendly and confident at talking to people
• Experienced in retail and/or customer service although this is not necessary as full training will be given
• Flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment predominately on regular days and times (this helps our shop managers plan their work)
• Good communication and numeracy skills
• You will need to be aged 16 or over, parental consent will be required if under 18.

What we can offer you:

Training and support will be provided throughout your time with us, you’ll also benefit from;

•  Meeting new people and making new friends in your local area
• Learn new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more
• Induction and training relevant to your role
• The opportunity to make a huge difference to the welfare of animals

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch! 

Please note this is a volunteering role available with RSPCA Wimbledon, Wandsworth and Sutton District branch registered charity number 210637 not National RSPCA registered charity number 219099 which is a separate charity.

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

We are happy to reimburse our volunteers for any reasonable travel expenses they may incur whilst volunteering with us. To keep our costs down, this does mean we can only accept volunteers who live within easy reach of our shops (SW18). 

Citizens Advice Waltham Forest has served the local community for over 40 years, providing independent advice, information and advocacy on a wide range of subjects.  We now have a number of vacancies on our Board which we are seeking to fill with people local to Waltham Forest who are passionate about supporting the people and communities of our borough.

About Citizens Advice Waltham Forest

During the past three years we have made our service even more accessible to local people by increasing our outreach to 14 different locations across the borough and offering digital as well as face-to-face advice. 

During  the pandemic we responded by working even more closely with the council and other borough partners to continue to support our community. 

We are now looking forward to ensuring our strategy continues to meet the needs of our Waltham Forest communities in the challenging months and years ahead.

About our Board of Trustees

We are looking for local people who have an understanding of the Waltham Forest area, can exercise independent judgement, have strong communication skills and are willing to give their time and commitment to being a trustee. We would particularly welcome applications from those who can bring financial skills, people management/ HR experience, and from those who have used our services.  The Board currently meets a minimum of four times a year for full Board meetings. In addition, trustees are actively encouraged to join one of our subcommittees, according to their particular area of expertise or experience. 

Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.  We would also encourage young people to apply.  If you are interested in becoming a trustee and would like to discuss flexibility around location, time, ‘what you will do’ and how we can support you please contact us.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS VACANCY IS FOR APPLICANTS OVER THE AGE OF 18 ONLY

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind

About Sense

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

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

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

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind

About Sense

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

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

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

About Together Now: 

At Together Now, we believe every family deserves to live together. Our mission is to reunite refugee families who have been separated due to conflict, persecution, or other hardships. We rely on public donations and volunteer support to provide vital services, including covering travel and documentation costs that make family reunions possible. 

Purpose of the Role: 

As Bookkeeping Volunteer you'll play a key role in helping the charity to keep accurate financial records, including reporting to grant funders. Working closely with the Director, your contributions will directly support the charity’s vital work. 

Main Responsibilities: 

Bookkeeping records: 

• You'll use quickbooks to keep bookkeeping records, ensuring transactions are categorised correctly and allocated to the correct funder (weekly) 

• You'll report any missing receipts to make sure we have the information needed to report to funders and keep accurate records. 

• You'll create payroll journals on quickbooks using information from our payroll provider. You'll reconcile the payroll accounts (monthly) to ensure the correct amount is paid to HMRC, pension provider etc.

• You'll reconcile bank accounts to statements and report any problems (monthly)

Grant funding: 

• You'll use classes on quickbooks to keep track of different grants and make sure we are following the funders spending requirements.

• You'll liaise with the director to make sure that spending is allocated to the correct funder

• You'll report on grant funds to the director and casework manager (weekly), including how much is available to spend on casework for clients.

• You'll support the bid writer and director with financial information for funding bids

• You'll support the bid writer and director with information from quickbooks for end-of-grant reporting to funders. 

Reporting  

• You'll attend regular meetings with the director to highlight and go through any finance queries

• You'll provide financial reports for board meetings, and to support with end of year accounts   

• You'll support with claiming gift aid from HMRC

Person Specification: 

Skills and Attributes: 

• Attention to detail: Able to keep accurate records with good attention to detail. 

• Computer skills: Able to use MS Office, Sharepoint, email, and bookkeeping software confidently.

• Numerical skills: Confident working with numbers and doing calculations

• Honesty and discretion: Honest and discreet when working with confidential financial information. 

• Understanding of accounting and financial operations: Understanding of bookkeeping practices and requirements. 

• Communication skills: Ability to liaise with other staff, volunteers and trustees, confidence to advise on decisions and promote best practice.

• Self-Motivation: Capable of managing your workload independently and taking initiative on new ideas. 

• Passion for the Cause: A genuine interest in helping Together Now reunite refugee families. Lived experience of seeking asylum or family reunion would be beneficial.

Experience: 

• Previous bookkeeping experience is highly beneficial, particularly if related to charities with grant funding. 

• Experience with quickbooks bookkeeping software is desirable but not essential. 

Benefits to the Volunteer: 

• You'll gain experience in bookkeeping using quickbooks and in financial reporting 

• We can offer flexibility to contribute around your own schedule. 

• You'll be part of a passionate, dedicated team committed to reuniting refugee families. 

• You'll have the opportunity to develop valuable skills in bookkeeping and financial reporting. 

We are a small local charity but we have had a significant impact on work in our field both strategically and operationally. 

Our charitable objects as laid down in our constitution are:

• To reduce poverty by promoting the safety, choices and independence of victims of domestic abuse
• To educate by fostering awareness and understanding of the nature, prevalence and impact of domestic violence and means of reducing these
• To reduce the risk of domestic abuse by provision of services and supporting an integrated multi agency approach

Join us in empowering survivors of domestic abuse and expanding our impact, using your financial expertise to ensure our stability and drive sustainable growth.

What will you be doing?

The Treasurer plays a crucial role in maintaining the financial integrity of Reducing the Risk. This role involves overseeing the charity's financial affairs, ensuring financial viability, and ensuring that proper financial records and procedures are maintained. The Treasurer provides strategic financial guidance to the Board of Trustees and supports the charity's mission through sound financial management.

Treasurer Key Responsibilities: 

• Financial Oversight and Strategy
• Budgeting and Financial Planning
• Reporting and Compliance
• Financial Transactions and Controls
• Liaison with External Stakeholders
• Governance
• Support and Training

What are we looking for?

Essential: 

• A strong background in financial management, accounting, or a related field. 
• Experience in financial planning and budget management. 
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Ability to communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders. 
• Commitment to the mission and values of Reducing the Risk. 
• Commitment to developing a knowledge of Charity Finance regulations and practices (guidance will be provided) 

Desirable: 

• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent). 
• Previous experience as a Treasurer or in a similar role within a charity. 
• Understanding of SORP requirements and charity law. 
• Experience with financial software and systems used by charities.

What difference will you make?

By joining us, you’ll help sustain a charity known for its safe, trusted services and innovative partnerships. Your financial expertise will support our plans to expand community-based programs, develop our training into a self-financing enterprise, and enhance our impact on victims of abuse and their children, both locally and beyond.

Are you interested in the personal and professional development of local young people?

Play an important role in the functioning of our Trustee board.

We are looking for a new Trustee & Secretary.

Overview 

Esteem works with young adults aged 14 - 26 to build lasting self-Esteem and stronger communities through group activities and 1-2-1 support. 

Esteem creates spaces where everyone matters.

Esteem works with 200 young adults annually across all of Sussex who face barriers to achieving their life goals. We have a base in Shoreham and offer a variety of different opportunities, including social drop-in sessions, mentoring, wellbeing sessions, volunteering and counselling. We have a dedicated staff team with various backgrounds and a commitment to championing the views of young adults throughout the organisation.

This is an exciting opportunity to volunteer for a charity that is passionate about giving young adults the chance to develop their skills and confidence, both for their own benefit and for that of society as a whole. Esteem works with young adults to run Wellbeing, Social, Mentoring and Volunteering opportunities, with a youth-led and asset-based approach.

This voluntary role of Trustee & Secretary will include duties such as organising and minuting board meetings and some administrative duties to support the board.  As well as the normal duties of a trustee (see The Essential Trustee Duties) The main aim is for the Trustee Secretary to support the Chair and the CO in ensuring the smooth functioning of the board of trustees. This would also compliment other areas we seek to enhance the trustee team, which include a wide range of skills, and expertise in youth work, strategy planning, business development, financial administration and fundraising, as well as an interest in vocational and personal development for young people, combined with an in-depth understanding of our work and ambitions.

You will be jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. All trustees should also be aware of, and understand, their individual and collective responsibilities, and should not be overly reliant on one or more individual trustees in any particular aspect of the governance of the charity.

During Trustee meetings, your role would be to take minutes and record actions. Following each meeting, you would write up the minutes, share with the Board, as well as support the Chair and CO to plan for the next meeting.

Individuals are sought who have a strong empathy with Esteem’s goal of enabling young adults to flourish. The Esteem Secretary will be expected to contribute around 6 hours per month to the organisation, including board meetings, which run for two hours every two months, from 6-8pm at The Old School House, Shoreham. A minimum commitment of two years would be preferable. This post requires some flexibility due to the nature of Esteem being a growing organisation.

Your regular tasks and responsibilities will include:

• Attend Board meetings on Tuesday evenings eveyy 8 weeks at Esteem, from 6-8pm

• Read meeting minutes and pre-reading documents ahead of meeting (sent at least 1 week before the meeting)

• Contribute to all aspects of Esteems Strategy and maintain oversight of the organisation

• Ensuring meetings are effectively organised and minuted

• Ensuring meeting minutes are agreed with Chair and circulated post-meetings

• Maintaining effective records and administration

• Assisting the trustees to uphold  the legal requirements of governing documents, to be compliant with charity law, company law etc. (where relevant)

• Communication and correspondence to include:

• Liaising with the Chair to plan Board meetings 

• Draw on the Governance calendar to help plan agenda items and liaise with the CO  and trustees to produce the necessary updates for review at the Board meeting

• Receiving agenda items from committee members and staff

• Circulating agendas and reports with trustees, staff and Esteem’s youth steering committee with the support and direction of the CO and Chair

• Assist in organising the Annual General Meeting - including 

• Developing the Agenda with the Chair 

• Organisation of venue and dates and invitations

• Circulation of papers

• Supporting the smooth running of the day

• Minuting of the AGM

• Seeking agreement of the minutes from Chair and distribution

• Support the Trustees with organising trustee induction and ongoing training

Person Specification

Essential:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Effective time management and organisational skills

• Ability to work to specified deadlines

• A keen eye for detail

• Experience of record keeping, information retrieval and dissemination of data/documentation to Trustees (or Directors or senior managers) and relevant parties. 

• Experience of writing agendas and concise minutes

• Competent computer user and able to communicate by email

• Able to exercise independent judgement and take reasonable care, skill and diligence in their role

• Commitment to working towards Esteem’s values of Trust, Support, and Respect

Desirable:

• Knowledge of Charity law and the voluntary sector.

• Knowledge of, or experience in, the role of a company secretary

• Knowledge and understanding of issues affecting young adults. 

• Have knowledge of Google Drive

Appointment to this role is subject to satisfactory vetting and barring checks.

What we offer

• A Diverse and Inclusive Environment: Equality, diversity and inclusion are central to Esteem’s values and how we work. We are proud of our commitment to diversity and inclusion and support young adults and staff from different backgrounds so they can be their best selves. Our networks include All Sorts (LGBTQIA+), Adur Refugees and Possibility People.

• Wellbeing Activities: You will be invited to attend wellbeing activities that our staff team and young adults enjoy every three months in our Wellbeing Week.

• Training Opportunities: You will be invited to training opportunities.

Applicants that are offered an interview will be asked to provide two referees and bring ID to the interview to enable us to take up references and undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Esteem welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We value diversity and promote inclusion through our activities, as well as in our policies and practices. Our culture and values reinforce this. We seek to create an inspiring and inclusive environment where all feel valued and able to contribute to the organisation.

If you have the skills, knowledge and drive that we are looking for, and are passionate about making a real difference in young adults' lives, we would love to hear from you.

About The Role

This role involves:

• maintenance of a range of powered machines including hedge trimmers, strimmers, blowers and lawn mowers;
• year-round maintenance of Arundel’s vehicles, including a works van, two compact tractors and a ride-on lawnmower;
• ensuring that routine maintenance is carried out on these vehicles;
• communicating with your manager on any necessary purchases for repairs/ or maintenance;
• keeping up to date with WWT news

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You'll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 

About You

This role will suit you if:

You have a can-do and enthusiastic attitude in completing tasks in all weathers, and are both a practical person and physically fit. Experience and knowledge in machinery and/or vehicle maintenance, ideally with qualifications, is essential, together with a competent, confident approach to maintenance and repair, being able to work independently and proactively. Much of your time will be spent working independently, but you will be happy to seek out help when needed. As nearly all our roles take place in public view, we need people committed to good customer service, engaging with visitors in our work, and positive and friendly communications with other staff and volunteers.

Please note that this role is currently only open to those aged 18+, and a driving licence is essential as there will sometimes be the need to use trust vehicles on site.

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you'll love volunteering at WWT

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife - talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake...
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind

About Sense

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

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

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

As a Sales Assistant Volunteer you will be at the till, serving customers as the friendly face of your shop. You will help people facing poverty around the world by giving great customer service and making donors, customers, and supporters feel welcome in our shop. We’ll give you ongoing training and support so that you can feel right at home as part of the Oxfam Community!

About this role

We will give you all the training and support you need so you will develop your skills as part of our team. You don’t need to have any experience – we’ve got you covered. You can also get some lunch and travel costs too. Whatever you need, we’re here to help.

As a Sales Assistant Volunteer you’ll develop skills that boost your confidence:

• Improving your communication skills in this customer-facing role
• Serving customers on the till, handling cash and card payments
• Creating a friendly shop environment to make everyone feel welcome

Volunteering that works for you

Volunteering can be very flexible to suit you. So even if your availability or skills don’t match this role, get in touch and we will find something right for you. By volunteering for a few hours a week, you will meet new people and have some fun for a good cause.

What you will be doing

• Making everyone feel welcome
• Serving customers on the till
• Handling cash and card payments
• Helping donors as they come in
• Keeping the shop clean and tidy

The skills you need

• Helpful and friendly
• Happy to be part of a team
• Excited to learn new skills
• Up for trying a range of shop tasks

What's in it for you

• Some lunch and travel costs
• Improve language and communication skills in a customer facing role
• Boost your CV by learning transferable skills
• Grow your confidence and meet new people
• We can be flexible around your education, family, work, or health etc.
• Possible references for future employers.

What happens next?

After you apply the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do in the shop. From there you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!

VOLUNTEER TRUSTEE VACANCIES

Thiese are three separate voluntary roles for Trustees:

 !)  legal background, preferably a Lawyer

2) ICT

3) Finance.

 Trustees are the people who share ultimate responsibility for governing a charity and directing how it is managed and run.Citizens Advice North Oxon and South Northants particularly welcomes applications from people from ethnic minorities.Trustees ensure we have a clear strategy, and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.A trustee's role in any charity is to be the ‘guardians of purpose’, making sure that all decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first. They safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation. They make sure these are used well and that the charity is run sustainably.

Trustees don’t usually do the day-to-day running of the charity. They delegate this to the staff, led by the Chief Executive. Instead, they play the role of a ‘critical friend’ to the Chief Executive by giving support and by challenging – in a supportive way – to help them manage effectively.

Our trustee board meets four to eight times a year, both full meetings and sub-committees with specific functions.

The Organisation
St John’s Winchester is one of the oldest almshouse charities in England, with a history that stretches back over 900 years. It was founded in the 12th century by Bishop Henry of Blois, a key figure in Winchester's medieval history and the brother of King Stephen. The charity’s original mission was to provide care and shelter for the poor and elderly, embodying values of compassion and care.

The almshouses in the heart of Winchester have evolved over the centuries but have always remained dedicated to supporting our residents. Throughout its long history, St John's has expanded its services to include a range of housing and welfare support, responding to the changing needs of society.

Today, St John’s Winchester is dedicated to supporting older people. It offers sheltered housing through its almshouses and provides specialised care services, including dementia support. The charity sustains its work through a substantial property portfolio, continuing to serve the Winchester community while evolving to meet contemporary needs.

More information about St John's Winchester Charity can be found on their website.

The Role
The Chairman of the Board of Trustees at St John’s Winchester Charity provides strategic leadership and governance, ensuring that the charity fulfils its mission, complies with legal obligations, and operates efficiently. The Chairman collaborates closely with the Chief Executive and the Board to set and execute the charity’s strategy, uphold its values, and oversee its operations. This is a critical role for guiding one of the UK’s oldest charitable foundations in its mission to provide alms housing and care for older people within the City of Winchester.

Person Specification

Essential 
•  Leadership Experience: Proven experience in a senior leadership role within an organisation, with a strong track record of strategic oversight and governance.
•  Integrity and Judgement: High standards of integrity, with sound independent judgement and a commitment to the charity’s values.
•  •Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills, capable of articulating ideas clearly and effectively and listening to others with empathy and understanding.
•  Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with other trustees and staff, fostering a positive and productive working relationship.

Desirable
•  Local Knowledge: A broad network of connections in the Winchester area, with a deep understanding of local community needs and issues.
•  Sector Expertise: Knowledge and understanding of the almshouse, social care, and commercial property sectors is highly desirable.

Please download the Candidate Information Pack for further information.

How to Apply
If you are passionate about joining St John’s Winchester and believe you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please apply with the following:

•  An up-to-date CV
•  A supporting statement of no more than 2 sides of A4, detailing why you would like to be considered, your relevant experience and expertise and what you think you can bring to the role.

All applications are being handled by our recruitment partner, Trustees Unlimited (part of the Russam group). 

All applications should be emailed to Trustees Unlimited.

If you have any difficulty uploading your application or if you would like to have an informal and confidential discussion about the role, alternatively please contact Melissa Baxter.

Closing date for applications: Monday 18th November 2024  
Interview with St John’s Winchester: December 2024 (dates TBC)

We look forward to recieving your application.

Join the Oxfam community

As a Social Media Volunteer you will help our friendly shop team by connecting with your community to attract new supporters to the shop. Best of all you’ll be raising vital funds to support people facing poverty around the world.Please not this role is shop based and under 18 volunteers will not be expected to run any of our social media accounts. The accounts are run by the Shop Manager and you will be supporting by creating exciting and fun content.

About this role

This is an exciting opportunity to support shops with managing different social media channels. With an aim to maximise engagement, promote volunteering and raise awareness of Oxfam’s campaigns.

We will give you all the training and support you need so you will develop your skills as part of our team. You don’t need to have any experience – we’ve got you covered. You can also get some lunch and travel costs too. Whatever you need, we’re here to help.

This role usually requires 2 – 4 hours per week so it would be fantastic if you would consider getting involved in other areas of the shop.

As a Social Media Volunteer you’ll develop skills that boost your confidence.

• Improve your communication skills in this public-facing role
• Put your creativity to good use by making exciting content
• Set your shop at the heart of the community by connecting with people in your area

Along with learning all about this role, you can branch out and try other things. Whether it’s about the shop floor or behind the scenes, we will help you to learn as many skills as you want.

Volunteering that works for you

Volunteering can be very flexible to suit you. So even if your availability or skills don’t match this role, get in touch and we will find something right for you. By volunteering for a few hours a week, you will meet new people and have some fun for a good cause.

Everyone has something to offer

At Oxfam we know that everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role which works for you. 

What happens next?

After you apply the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do in the shop. From there you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!