Supporter Communications Manager Volunteer Roles

Are you passionate about making a real difference? Do you believe in the power of community? If you have financial expertise and want to help Roehampton become a flourishing, healthy, inclusive and collaborative place to live and work, we invite you to join our team as the Treasurer for Our Roehampton. Every financial decision you help make will ripple through our community, enabling us to do more, reach further, and impact lives for the better. You’ll be part of a passionate team that values collaboration, inclusivity, and heart. This is a volunteer role. 

We are a dedicated community development charity (and company limited by guarantee - Roehampton Trust Ltd) committed to creating positive, lasting change in Roehampton. We believe in building social capital and on the good things that are already happening in our community, supporting the development and deployment of the passions, skills and experiences of the people who live and work here. We also believe that we are stronger together so we work in partnership and collaboration with our community, and the wider community and voluntary sector in Wandsworth and London. We have 3 years core funding in place to support 2.5 roles to drive the charity’s work forward, so this is an exciting time to join us as we look to the future and making a huge difference to the people we serve. 

What you’ll do: 

• Oversee the charity’s financial affairs and ensure they are legal, constitutional, and within accepted accounting practices. 
• Support and liaise with our Director in the budgeting, financial planning, and reporting that will help guide the strategic direction of our work. 
• Liaise with our accountants on year-end accounts and any other issues that arise. 
• Work closely with the Board and staff team, offering guidance and insight to ensure our resources are used efficiently and effectively. 
• Serve as a Trustee on our Board. 

What we’re looking for: 

• A passion to make a positive impact for and with the local community 
• Experience in financial management or accounting (qualified or working towards a qualification). 
• Experience of or a willingness to understand charity accounting and the SORP framework to ensure we meet our legal requirements and have consistent reporting 
• Compassion and empathy – understanding the importance of our work in people’s lives. 
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse team. 

Together, we can create a thriving, resilient community. 
If this sounds like a role for you, we’d love to hear from you! 

Registered charity no 1146841.

We are now recruiting for the following volunteer position:

Trustee

Please note that it is a genuine occupational qualification that a female takes on this role, and the post is exempt under section 7 (2) (e) of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 

An exciting and unique opportunity has arisen for you to join us at the Well Women Centre, as we move into our new premises on Wood Street. The Trustees will be representing, developing and promoting the interests of the Well Women Centre. We are a welcoming Board who are passionate about the work we do with women from the Wakefield District. 

Established in 1985, the Well Women Centre is a charity providing mental health, emotional and practical support in a safe, women only space. We support all women age 16+ from Wakefield and District. We provide services by women for women from a holistic, non-medical approach to improve women’s mental health and well-being. We offer flexible services centrally and outreach designed to overcome the inequalities and accessibility barriers that women can experience.

Volunteers play an important role within the centre and we have a hard-working Board of Trustees who guide and support the Well Women Centre.

We welcome applications from women of all ages and backgrounds, with the empathy and inspiration to give their time, to join our Board of Trustees, there is no need to have previous trustee experience. We will provide training and development opportunities.

We are looking for women with diverse skills and life experience to join our Board to ensure it works well and fulfils its responsibilities. We are particularly interested in women with experience in corporate/commercial fundraising and finance but there is more than one space available so even if your experience lays elsewhere we would like to meet you. The role is very much strategic, rather than operational.

A commitment to attend up to eight Board meetings a year in person in Wakefield town centre (usually starting at 5.45pm) plus an option to join sub committees with up to seven meetings a year via video platform. There is a minimum requirement of attending six of the Board meetings in any one year. This is an unpaid role but authorised expenses are paid.

For more information on how to apply please visit our website.

Closing date is Monday 18th November 2024 by 1pm, with interviews on the afternoon of Thursday 20th November 2024

In-Deep Community Task Force is a grassroots charity working with isolated older people and children with Special Education Needs (SEND) and their families in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, Lambeth and surrounding areas.

We aim to promote friendship and understanding in the community, and tackle loneliness and isolation by bringing people together to take part in meaningful activities. We offer a range of services and support for those in need.

In-Deep is run by a board of trustees and our activities are supported by volunteers, including volunteers with disabilities, students and people from the local area. In-Deep volunteers were thrilled to be awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2013; this is the most esteemed award for volunteers of any charity, and a testament to their dedication.

In-Deep’s Mission Statement

We want to promote an inclusive society where everyone feels welcome and connected to the community. Our vision for the future is to extend our activities to different boroughs in London, so that more people can come to our activities and experience friendship.

Office Assistant Role

Schedule: 1 to 2 days a week (Monday, Tuesday, and/or Thursday)

Responsibilities:

• General administrative duties
• Emailing and making new contacts to promote services
• Assisting in fundraising applications
• Finance and budgeting tasks
• Supporting current staff

Requirements:

• Comfortable making phone calls
• Ability to work independently
• Willingness to receive training and guidance from current staff

Skills:

• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Proficiency in MS Office and other relevant software
• Attention to detail and problem-solving abilities

Ideal Candidate:

• Proactive and self-motivated
• Friendly and approachable
• Adaptable to various tasks and responsibilities

This role offers a great opportunity to gain experience in a supportive environment while contributing to the team’s success

Why we want you
As branch secretary you help coordinate a range of activities and a calendar of events to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that
we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.

What you will be doing

• Communication with branch volunteers
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s central office
• Co-ordinating a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Strong administration skills
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

We’re looking for a passionate and dynamic individual to Chair our Board of Trustees. If you have the vision, leadership experience and a passion for landscape restoration, this is a unique opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of Beaver Trust.

Who we are

Beaver Trust is a nature restoration charity, established in September 2019, run by a small team with a diverse skill set and extensive experience in beaver ecology and restoration. We provide practical solutions to help people co-exist with beavers. We influence legislation that rebuilds ecosystems and strengthens our resilience in this ecological and climate crisis. Our vision is for thriving waterways vibrant with life, where beavers are embraced as a vital part of our biodiverse landscape.

​​Why Join Us?

As Chair of Beaver Trust, you will play a pivotal role in driving one of Britain’s most exciting and impactful restoration charities. You will have the opportunity to work with passionate individuals dedicated to restoring beavers to regenerate our landscapes. This is a unique chance to shape the future of Beaver Trust and contribute to achieving our vision of thriving waterways vibrant with life, where beavers are embraced as a vital part of our biodiverse landscape.​

​The Chair of the Board of Trustees provides leadership and direction to the Beaver Trust’s board, ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance and strategic oversight of the organisation. The Chair works closely with the CEO and trustees to ensure that Beaver Trust’s mission and strategic objectives are achieved.

The Chair guides the board in making strategic decisions, and fosters a culture of transparency, accountability, and innovation. The Chair also plays an important role in fundraising, networking, and advocacy for Beaver Trust’s work.

Beaver Trust values diversity, equity and inclusivity and welcomes applications from people with diverse backgrounds.

Time Commitment

The Chair is expected to remotely chair quarterly board meetings and attend additional committee meetings as required. In person meetings may be held once or twice a year. Additional time will be needed for document review, strategy development, monthly meetings with CEO and ad-hoc meetings, estimated at up to two days per month.

Remuneration

Unremunerated. This role is voluntary and is not accompanied by financial remuneration; however reasonable expenses will be covered (for example, travel, accommodation, subsistence and supporting child-care expenses to attend meetings).

Term

Three-year, fixed-term post with the possibility of extension

Key Responsibilities

Governance and Leadership

• Provide leadership, alongside the CEO, in setting the organisation’s vision, strategy and values.
• Provide leadership to the board, to ensure that trustees act cohesively and effectively in the charity’s best interests, to manage its resources responsibly and act with care and skill.
• Ensure effective governance and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Lead the board in supporting the CEO and Senior Management Team, fostering an effective partnership between the trustees and management.
• Support subcommittees where needed in their roles and responsibilities.
• Chair board meetings, ensuring they are well-run, productive, inclusive and focused on key governance and strategic matters.
• Ensure the board operates effectively, addressing skills gaps and recruiting new trustees as required.
• Develop and maintain a strong, productive working relationship with the CEO.
• Undertake an annual review of the CEO’s performance on behalf of the board.

Strategic Planning

• Work with the CEO and trustees to develop and monitor the implementation of Beaver Trust’s strategic plans, ensuring they are aligned with the organisation’s vision, mission and core values.
• Provide guidance on the development of policies, partnerships, and funding strategies that support long-term financial sustainability.
• Lead the board in reviewing key projects, offering strategic insights into new opportunities and risks.

Fundraising and External Relations

• Act as an ambassador for Beaver Trust, leading by example in alignment with our core values.
• Support fundraising efforts, working with the board and executive team to identify new revenue streams, partners, and donors.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with applicable external stakeholders as required. This may vary according to the chair’s own experience and networks.
• ​Board Development & Performance​
• Work with all committees to ensure that they are representative of the charity and able to work effectively and productively within their remit.
• Conduct /cooperate with annual evaluations of the Chair, other trustees and CEO/board performance, addressing any issues and driving continuous improvement.
• Ensure succession planning is in place for key roles, including the Chair and CEO.

​Skills and experience

Essential:

• Demonstrated leadership experience.
• A proven understanding of governance and legal responsibilities of charity trustees, with a strong commitment to high standards of accountability and transparency.
• Experience in chairing boards or committees, with strong facilitation skills and the ability to manage diverse opinions and complex discussions, to reach clear and agreed decisions within agreed timeframes.
• Proven track record of strategic planning and implementation, with the ability to provide insight and oversight in complex situations.
• Strong emotional intelligence, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with trustees, staff, stakeholders, and partners.
• Passionate about environmental conservation and committed to Beaver Trust’s mission of restoring beavers to regenerate our landscapes.
• A desire to develop beaver-related knowledge.
• Ability to align with Beaver Trust values and ensure they shape our work.

Desired:

• Experience in fundraising, advocacy, or public relations, with established networks in the environmental sector.
• Understanding of the complexities of practical, political and social aspects of species restoration.
• Understanding of UK environmental law, restoration policy, and sustainable land management practices.
• Beaver related knowledge or experience

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS VACANCY IS FOR APPLICANTS OVER THE AGE OF 17

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.

THE CHURN PROJECT seeks a new Trustee to join Board of Trustees

 We are looking for a passionate and committed individual to join our Board of Trustees and contribute to the overall governance and strategic oversight of our organisation.

The Churn Project is a well-established and highly regarded community charity dedicated to reducing isolation and enhancing wellbeing for those in and around Cirencester. We focus on supporting individuals facing loneliness, life transitions, poverty, or mental health challenges. Our vision is for all residents to feel included and valued. What is unique about the Churn Project is that we support people from pregnancy to old age through our three services: Family, Community Wellbeing and Ageing Well.

We are looking for new Trustee to join our energetic and committed Board and help steer the charity through its next exciting period of development.

We welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds, whether you are an experienced Trustee or wanting to take your first step at Board level.  We would like to increase the diversity and life experience of our Board and are particularly interested in people who offer one or more of the following:

· experience or skills to support our team in the following areas: commissioning services; income generation; enterprise/business development; marketing/communications

· with active careers

· have overcome adversity in their lives

Trustees are unpaid directors of the charity, who have overall control of it and work together to oversee its strategy, direction and aims. In essence, Trustees are responsible for making sure the charity does what it was set up to do.

· Trustees meet every 8 weeks for two hours, normally during the day, in the Churn Project offices in Cirencester. We hold at least one away day every year which Trustees are asked to attend, together with the AGM evening and occasional ad hoc events. 

· In addition, Trustees need to allow time to read papers ahead of meetings.  When appropriate, we use occasional working groups for particular issues and Trustees are invited to join these in line with their experience, skills and interests.

· There is a range of opportunities to get involved in the Churn Project’s work outside meetings, should you have the time and wish to do more.

What we offer in return is a great opportunity not just to make a difference in an area that matters to you, but also to develop your skills. You will be making strategic decisions, influencing, and shaping innovative projects and helping improve the health & wellbeing of our community.

We can reimburse for any travel and out-of-pocket expenses and provide support through an induction period.

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.

The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre is a small, charitable organisation based in West Sussex, which has been set up to provide care, rehoming, education and treatment to ill, injured and unwanted reptiles across the county of Sussex. We are an organisation which is pending registration as a charity run by volunteers purely through expertise and love of reptiles.

We are a very small team and are currently awaiting confirmation of charity status after recently applying to register as a charity.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre achieves its core charitable purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. 

They ensure that The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre has a clean strategy and that our work and coals are in line with our vision. 

Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable the Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre to grow and thrive, and through this achieve our charitable purpose.

Main duties and responsibilities 

• Support and provide advice on The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, monitor and evaluate progress
•  Ensure the effective administration of the organisation. 
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively
• Review and approve the Sussex Reptile centres, financial statements
• Provide support and challenge to The Sussex Reptile Rescue’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Keep abreast of changes in The Sussex Reptile Rescue’s operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of The Sussex Reptile Rescue’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect The Sussex Reptile Rescue’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of The Sussex Reptile Rescue’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

 What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. 

You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion. 
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
• Willingness to lead according to our values [charity values].
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

• Trustees are appointed for a 2-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 8 years.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

• Attending 6 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held both remotely and in person. 
• Attending [details of annual strategy / training days]

Committee membership

Ad hoc and occasional support through working groups and / or support to the executive team.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Are you a great communicator who enjoys bringing people together? Local
groups across the UK are run by volunteers and offer friendship and support to
people living with Parkinson's and their families and friends. We need great
organisers who can keep our members and volunteers connected to our local
group’s range of activities.

What you will be doing:
Help organise and promote the groups range of activities
Keep up to date about the news and developments of Parkinson's UK
more widely, sharing these with the group
Encourage and inspire others to engage with activities
Attend regular committee meetings and take and circulate notes
Work with local Parkinson's UK staff to ensure the group runs within
Parkinson's UK governance procedures.

The skills you need:
Strong administrative, organisational, communication and IT skills to help
keep the group running smoothly
Good collaboration skills - support the team to be inclusive, open to a
diversity of views
Positive attitude; making things happen in your local community and
bringing people together to work as a team
Supportive; able to listen to the needs of people with Parkinson's, and
reflect these to the group to shape the support provided
Honest; you'll know when to ask for help, or when tasks might be seen as
less important, and able to share that with Parkinson's UK and your group

Why we want you
As branch secretary you help coordinate a range of activities and a calendar of events to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that
we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.

What you will be doing

• Communication with branch volunteers
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s central office
• Co-ordinating a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Strong administration skills
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

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.

 VOLUNTEER ROLE BRANCH  SECRETARY

 RSPCA Darlington & District Branch  are looking for a Volunteer to become the Branch  Secretary to run the Branch alongside our committee of Trustees.

Are you who we are looking for?

Do you have the  management and organisational expertise which you could use to help our good cause?

Are you an enthusiastic, dedicated person who is passionate about animal welfare?

Overview of the Branch Secretary opportunity

If you have all of the above  then you could become  our principal communications trustee in the role of Branch Secretary, and help us to maintain our branch affairs and support us in improving animal welfare in our area and the work of our local Inspectors as they focus on animals who suffer from abuse, cruelty and neglect. Through your excellent administration and communication skills, you would need to be able to have oversight of our finances, fundraising events and face book page. You would also need to coordinate our work in providing education to small groups in the community when requested,  oversee the distribution of food to local animal food banks, support the  employment of our staff in the cat hub .

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Secretary

Through your excellent administration and communication skills, you would need to be able to have oversight of our finances, fundraising events and face book page. You would also need to coordinate our work in providing education to small groups in the community when requested,  oversee the distribution of food to local animal food banks, support the  employment of our staff in the cat hub.

• You will also  act as the primary contact point for all branch communications with the National Society, the branch committee and the branch membership
• You will arrange branch meetings ensure accurate minutes are taken and distributed in accordance with branch rules
• You will ensure all branch committee decisions are implemented and actions completed
• You will  work with the membership secretary  to arrange the branch AGM including the compilation and distribution of the annual report, nominations and agenda in line with strict timetable laid down in the branch rules.
• You will ensure  the timely dissemination of the contents of all correspondence and literature received by the branch, ensuring availability to all committee members and reply to all branch correspondence when necessary.
• Be responsible for the ordering and distribution of  RSPCA stationery, leaflets, posters and other fundraising and promotional material when required.
• You will liaise  with the Branch Partnership Manager (BPM) and group Chief Inspector and notify them of all Branch meetings.
• Be aware of the outcome of Regional Board meetings and support regional activities.
• Actively promote and advertise the Society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch Trustees and Volunteers and welcome new members as and when needed.
•  In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch.
• Manage Branch, Trustees and Volunteer activities.
• You will advise the BPM of all changes to Branch facilities, services and contact details
• In the absence of a Membership Secretary resume responsibility of the Branch Membership list
• Submit recommendations for National Society Awards to the BPM, in accordance with the wishes of the committee
• You will need to complete an RSPCA application form and we will require 2 references

 As a minimum, all trustees would normally be expected to attend  four - six weekly committee meetings which last about 2 hours, however the commitment may vary depending upon need.

As a Branch Secretary you would also be required to become a Branch Trustee and a Member of the RSPCA National Society. 

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee

There is information on the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees and we have an online session about becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the 

RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Secretary

• We will provide you with training and mentorship from the outgoing Branch Secretary.
• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.
• Support from your peers who will help you get the job done!

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Membership fees are for a Single adult. £24 (Per Year) 18 years old or over.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidelines for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
•  References will also be required.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for 200 years and are proud to be the oldest animal 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 and Trustees who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Darlington & District Branch

The RSPCA Darlington & District Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which are run by volunteers and trustees who have the support of the Nation Society of the RSPCA.

The main activities of our branch are on our Facebook page RSPCA Darlington & District Branch and on our website.

What we are looking for in a Volunteer

Above all, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare and the work the Branch carries out.

Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and charity legislation can be useful.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills.  You do not need to be an expert, although commitment, common sense and the ability to be objective are vital.

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

We’ll look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you.

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.