Volunteer Roles in East Midlands

About us: GT Scholars is a charitable social enterprise that tackles educational inequality by giving ambitious young people the support, skills and strategies they need to achieve aspirations. We run a wide range of programmes that help young people achieve their academic and career aspirations, particularly those from less-privileged backgrounds. 

What makes us different? We run tutoring, mentoring & career insight programmes that help our scholars, aged 11-18, discover their strengths, develop their mindsets and design their own futures.

There are many charitable organisations and social enterprises offering programmes to improve the life chances of young people. 

However, our programmes use a unique 3:1 model which means that we’re able to sustainably use our profits to provide additional places on our programmes, to young people from low income homes. 

We believe that all young people are gifted and talented, regardless of their background. 

Our mission is to empower and develop the next generation of leaders and change-makers and we’re looking for volunteer tutors that are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives!

If you are an undergraduate or graduate, you could make a difference by joining us as a volunteer tutor. As a volunteer tutor, you’ll need to:

• Have a passion for helping children and young people

• Provide online one-to-one tutoring support for 1 hour week

• Build pupil confidence in Science.

• Have strong subject knowledge (confident enough to tutor up to GCSE)

• Work collaboratively with other tutors and mentors

• Have a minimum of an undergraduate degree or be working towards this

Volunteer tutoring can be extremely rewarding and volunteers with GT Scholars benefit from:

• A flexible schedule - you can choose online tutoring hours to suit your schedule

• The chance to grow your contacts and meet like-minded volunteers 

• The chance to make a real difference in the life of a young person.

Additional information: We’re looking for tutors that can commit to a minimum of 2 academic terms of volunteering.

We will need to conduct reference checks and you will need an Enhanced DBS for this role as you will be working directly with children. We can process this for you or you may submit one if this is less than 3 years old.

International voluntary roles for senior safeguarding professionals

The Church of England, Diocese in Europe is looking for experienced, senior safeguarding professionals to serve as independent members of the Diocese’s Safeguarding Advisory Committee.

The Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Committee (DSAC) provides advice, strategic support and guidance to the Diocesan Bishop and his staff in respect of the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults across our chaplaincies in over 30 countries across Europe.  Committee members are also sometimes asked to advise the Bishop and the Diocesan staff about action to be taken in difficult safeguarding cases.  The Committee is responsible for reviewing safeguarding cases retrospectively in order to identify any lessons that need to be learned.

DSAC membership consists of senior Diocesan representatives, and independent safeguarding professionals who bring an external perspective to enhance the level of scrutiny and transparency provided by the DSAC.  They provide challenge and support.  This is a unique opportunity to contribute to safeguarding in an international church context, with the chance to make a real difference in developing the future strategy of the organisation.

Skills and Experience: 

External members must have extensive, current or recent child protection or adult safeguarding experience at a senior level in a statutory, voluntary or private organisation.  We would be particularly interested in hearing from anyone who has experience of safeguarding in an international context, people who have experience working with survivors of abuse, and anyone with direct experience of working with refugees and asylum seekers. 

In accordance with Church of England safeguarding policies, the Diocese in Europe is committed to Safer Recruitment Practice, and all appointments will be subject to appropriate checks.

Further Information: 

These are voluntary positions.  The DSAC meets 5 times a year and 4 of these meetings are on zoom with one in person in London.  Meetings are normally 2 hours in duration. Reasonable UK travel expenses will be met. The Diocese will offer a period of induction and support together with access to training and development.  The Diocese of Europe brings together over 250 Anglican congregations in more than 30 jurisdictions across Europe, Russia, Turkey and Morocco.  For more information see our website by searching for Diocese in Europe.

 To express interest: 

Please submit a covering letter and CV, detailing your suitability and experience for these roles via email as stated on this site by April 14 2025.  It is expected that interviews will be held in late April 2025.  Members serve three year terms which are renewable once. If you would like an informal chat about the role please email as above.

We are looking for Trustees to work with our executive team to develop our strategic direction, ensure effective governance & inspire us.

Key Responsibilities

Ensuring effective governance

• Providing support and leadership to ensure trustees fulfil their duties and contribute to strategic decision-making
• Maintain a supportive team culture among trustees, leveraging their varied experiences and networks for the charity's benefit
• Supporting colleague trustees to develop a collaborative team approach
• Develop and plan to ensure diversity & inclusion models and other relevant skills are embedded in our appproach

Development of the charity’s long-term strategy

• Working in collaboration with trustees, the CEO, and the Senior Executive Team to oversee the development of the long-term strategic plan
• Review delivery of the annual plan to achieve funding & project objectives
• Research broader networks, potential partnerships & stakeholders to support the charity's strategic goals and funding requirements

Working with others

• Develop productive working relationships and networks
• Agree annual objectives as a board within a mutually supportive network ensuring oversight to deliver

Acting as a representative of the charity

• Be an ambassador, developing our network with decision makers and other stakeholders as appropriate 

About Vibes in Care (ViC)

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

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

Why We Need You

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

The Role

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

What We’re Looking For

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

Skills & Experience (Desirable)

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

What’s In It For You?

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

Time Commitment

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

Application Process

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

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

Position:                Research, Communications and Project Intern

Location:               UK home-based (remote)

Commitment: Flexible hours (voluntary)

About Lived Expert

Lived Expert, founded by Mark Johnson MBE, is a pioneering social enterprise focusing on harnessing the power of lived experience. We've led transformative projects in areas like addiction, homelessness, neurodiversity, and the justice system, and now seek an enthusiastic intern to contribute to our mission.

Role Purpose

As a Research, Communications and Project Intern, you'll play a supportive role in our dynamic team, helping to convey powerful stories and assist in project coordination. This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about social change and looking to gain experience in the social enterprise sector.

Key Responsibilities

1. Support Research Tasks: Help in data entry, collection and analysis.
2. Assist in Communications Tasks: Support in creating content for social media, newsletters, and other communication channels.
3. Project Support: Help in coordinating various projects, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication.
4. Consultation Assistance: Aid in gathering and analysing insight from peoples’ lived experience for ongoing projects.
5. Collaborative Work: Work closely with the team to support various initiatives and campaigns.

Person Specification

· A keen interest in social enterprise, research, communications, and project support.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Organised and detail-oriented, with a willingness to learn.

Benefits

· Gain valuable experience in communications and project coordination.

· Work remotely with a flexible schedule.

· Opportunity to contribute to impactful projects in a meaningful sector.

· Receive guidance and support from an experienced team.

A special opportunity has arisen to be instrumental in shaping the future for Wimbledon and Putney Commons.  Do you have the drive, enthusiasm and experience to take on this important charity trustee role? 

This is a Ministerial Appointment to the Board of Conservators by the Secretary of State for the Home Office under Section 12 of the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Act 1871. 

The Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators (WPCC) ensure that Wimbledon Common, Putney Heath and Putney Lower Common are managed and conserved in accordance with the Wimbledon and Putney Commons Act 1871, and their legal obligations as Trustees of a registered charity. We are a non-political organisation, dedicated to the conservation and protection of the Commons.

The Commons comprise around 1,140 acres of countryside in London, designated as a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation with approximately 80 percent designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The open space can be enjoyed for exercise and recreation and attracts large numbers of visitors. The Commons are also home to many sporting facilities including some 48 acres of playing fields used for rugby, football and cricket, has 16 miles of horse rides, and a golf course. 

We are looking for someone with drive, enthusiasm and an appropriate balance of skills to complement the experience within the existing Board. An interest or experience of nature conservation and recreational open spaces would be beneficial. 

To ensure an appropriate balance of skills and experience within the Board, it would be particularly advantageous if applicants were able to demonstrate skills and experience of finance, income generation and fundraising. The initial appointment is for a three-year term, which may be extended by further three-year terms. It is desirable that applicants are able to demonstrate experience in being part of a multi-disciplinary Board of Trustees and will uphold the Seven Principles of Public Life (the Nolan Principals). 

For further information on how to apply, please download the Candidate Brief and Information Pack for this challenging but rewarding role.

The closing date for returned applications is 10am on 21 April 2025.  Interviews for the post will take place in early May 2025.

Alternatively, the Candidate Brief and Information pack can be downloaded from our website.

5 x Trustee Position including one Treasurer Role

 3ST (Third Sector Together) North West London Voluntary and Community Sector Alliance

About Us

3ST is the alliance of the voluntary and community sector across North West London's Integrated Care Board (ICB) region. We support the voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in influencing and engaging with our health system while supporting the delivery of meaningful services. Our mission is to increase the VCSE sector's contribution to addressing health inequalities, improving service quality, and supporting healthier lives across North West London.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced professional to join our Board of Trustees, bringing expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Financial Management and Accounting

• Procurement and Contract Management

• Human Resources

• Corporate Governance

Key Responsibilities

1. Governance

· Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit.

· Safeguard the charity’s reputation, values, and mission.

· Ensure compliance with the Charity Commission’s regulations, the charity’s governing document, and relevant UK laws.

· Support the development and monitoring of organisational policies and procedures

2. Strategic Oversight

· Contribute to the strategic direction of 3ST, ensuring alignment with our mission and values

· Monitor the implementation and effectiveness of agreed strategies and objectives.

· Guide the development of procurement and contract management processes

3. Financial Management

· Approve budgets and ensure proper financial oversight, including adherence to charity accounting standards.

· Ensure the charity has sufficient resources to operate sustainably and responsibly.

· Assess and manage financial risks appropriately.

4. Risk Management

· Identify and evaluate potential risks, ensuring appropriate measures are in place to mitigate them.

· Maintain safeguarding practices to protect beneficiaries, staff, and the reputation of the charity.

5. Legal Compliance

· Ensure the charity meets its legal and regulatory requirements, including filing annual returns and accounts.

· Ensure adherence to data protection and equality legislation.

6. Advocacy and Representation

· Act as an ambassador for the charity, fostering positive relationships with key stakeholders and partners

· Uphold and actively promote the charity’s values and aims.

· Support the Alliance's representation and influencing work across the health system

· Champion the role of the VCSE sector in addressing health inequalities

________________________________________

Person Specification

Essential Experience and Skills

· Senior-level experience in either finance, procurement, or governance within the public, private, or voluntary sector

· Understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities

· Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

· Experience in strategic planning and risk management

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

· An understanding of or connection with North West London.

Desirable Experience

· Knowledge of the health and social care landscape in North West London

· Understanding of integrated care systems and NHS structures

· Previous board or trustee experience

Personal Qualities

· Commitment to reducing health inequalities and improving community wellbeing

· Strong ethical principles and commitment to public service

· Ability to work collaboratively as part of a diverse board

· Strategic thinking and ability to analyse complex information

Time Commitment

· Board meetings bi-monthly (6 per year)

· Annual Board Strategy Away Day

· Additional time for document review and strategic planning sessions

Remuneration

This is a voluntary position. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed according to our trustee expenses policy.

If you want to make a difference to people living with a mental health condition then we’d love to hear from you!

About us

At The Mental Health Community we use our lived experience to build understanding and support for what it’s like to live and work alongside managing a mental health condition. 

We know that it can be difficult to get, or keep a job if your energy levels, how you’re feeling and your ability to go to a place of work every day are affected by a mental health condition like anxiety or depression. But we also know that having a sense of purpose and belonging can really help with the symptoms and impact that mental health conditions can have on you.

Our work is focused on helping people with a mental health condition who are in work or looking for work. We do this by supporting businesses to improve how they look after people, because we know that by creating inclusive and safe spaces at work we make it possible for people with mental ill health to stay in the workplace which helps keep them well and benefits the businesses too.

By joining our board you will be: 

• Making a lasting impact by helping us make more workplaces safe and inclusive for people with a mental health condition
• Shaping the future of our charity as we expand our services and reach more people who need our support
• Using your skills and experience for good by helping guide the strategic direction of our charity.

What we’re looking for

We are looking for at least 4 new trustees to join our team. Whatever your skillset, we’d love to hear from you and there are some areas where we need particular help:

· Treasurer: oversee our financial health, provide guidance on building long term financial plans to help us grow and ensure appropriate financial management.

· Marketing and Communications: strategic oversight of our marketing and communications, raising awareness of our work and reaching new audiences through digital strategies and media engagement.

· Fundraising: develop our fundraising strategy and income streams, including grant applications, corporate sponsorship and campaigns.

· Governance: guide us in operating transparently and effectively whilst maintaining high standards of governance in compliance with our governing document and charity law.

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental ill health, young people aged 18-30, people of all socio-economic backgrounds, genders and people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

About the role

As a board of trustees we meet remotely every 6 weeks, there may be some activity in between meetings so the estimated total time commitment is 4 hours every 6 weeks.

In addition to using your specific skills to develop how we work, all trustees share responsibility for:

· Developing our activities to help us achieve our purpose and positive impact,

· Making sure we are compliant with our governing document and the requirements of the Charity Commission, and

· Being an active member of the board to help us make good decisions

What you can expect from us

We are committed to supporting our Trustees: you can expect an induction to the organisation and trustee role plus any additional conversations and support you need to help you feel confident in your role.

Our meetings are relaxed and informal; there are no expectations of ‘business clothes’, technical jargon or having all the answers.

We welcome and support your preferences for the way we work together, how you like to receive information and how we can make it easier for you to participate actively in our discussions.

One more thing

We know that great trustees come from many backgrounds and with a variety of experiences and that’s great - we really value people who bring different perspectives and add new voices to our team.

But you might not feel you ‘check all the boxes’ as you read this advert or the role description, especially if you’ve been marginalised or excluded. We get it, and we’ve felt like that too. But we hope you’ll apply anyway because we’d love to hear from you and will take care to help you feel welcome and included.

For more information on the role please see the role description.

The organisation

Thank you for considering becoming a Director of Every Body Outdoors (EBO). We are a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) that aims to make the outdoor space more inclusive to plus size people. There are several strands to our work including:

• community building, both online and in person
• coordinating volunteer led walking groups across the country
• organising plus size hill skills and navigation courses, and other plus size specific courses and events
• working with brands to improve the size inclusivity of their clothing
• working with retailers to encourage them to stock a wider range of plus size clothing

We run an Instagram account with over 15k followers, an active facebook group with 3k members and have over 20 volunteer walk leaders. To find out more about EBO you can read a short summary of who we are and our asks for brands.

By serving on the board of EBO, you directly contribute to creating a safe space and empowering our plus size community to access outdoor activities, wearing well fitting kit. Board membership is a strong addition to your professional profile, showing a commitment to leadership and community service.

The Board

We are a small organisation, with the board currently consisting of four Directors, who are all co-founders of the organisation. We currently have funding which allows us to pay a freelance worker for 2 days a week. Due to the small size of the organisation it is important that Directors are available to provide unpaid support and direction to our freelance worker and to take a hands-on role in developing the organisation.

Our main role as a board is to:

• lead the strategic direction of EBO
• ensure that EBO complies with its governing documents, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• financial oversight of funded projects and safeguarding the financial stability of the organisation
• support our freelance worker in their role to deliver funded projects, coordinate courses, events and social media
• seek out appropriate opportunities for funding and fundraising and supporting applications
• meet with brands and develop partnerships

The people

We are looking to recruit an additional two Directors to strengthen our board. We are encouraging applications from candidates with experience in a leadership or governance role (e.g working in a leadership role or a role that requires you to interact with a board, as a school governor, as a board member or trustee of another organisation)

It is vital that candidates have an understanding of the issues faced by plus size people in the outdoors, and are passionate about breaking down these barriers. While we recognise the value of lived experience as a plus size person this is not a pre-requisite for applying for the role.

An ideal candidate would also have proven experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising and income generation
• Third sector finance
• Strategic planning
• Advocating for community needs
• Social media campaigns
• Event planning
• Community building

EBO is dedicated to fostering equality and diversity, creating an inclusive and collaborative environment where everyone involved with the organisation feels respected and empowered to contribute their best. We acknowledge the intersectional barriers to accessing the outdoors and warmly encourage applications from individuals belonging to groups that have been historically underrepresented.

By law, to apply you must be at least 16 years old and cannot have been disqualified from acting as a company director in the past, or be under restriction from a bankruptcy, IVA or debt relief order.

Commitment

This is an unpaid, voluntary position, though  expenses may be covered where appropriate. All staff, directors and volunteers for EBO are expected to follow our Code of Conduct.

Based on our experience the time commitment required as a board member is 10 - 12 days a year and consists of:

• Attendance at 4 board meetings (held online), including preparation time - 2 days
• Attendance at 2-3 task specific meetings - 1 day
• Answering emails and questions regarding day to day running of EBO - 2 days
• Attendance at brand/partnership/event meetings, including preparation time - 2 days
• Support freelance worker, by checking documents or regular check ins - 2 days
• In person representation of Every Body Outdoors at events (e.g Kendal Mountain Festival) - 1-3 days

Additionally there are opportunities to volunteer to review kit and clothing, attend events and contribute posts for our social media.

How to Apply

To express your interest, send a short CV (max two pages) and a cover letter (one page). Please use your cover letter to outline any relevant experience that is not reflected in your CV, your motivation for joining our board, and how you would contribute to the EBO mission to make the outdoors more inclusive and accessible for plus size people.

The closing date for applications is 2nd April 2025, and we will respond to all applications within two weeks of this date. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an online interview, and successful candidates will be asked to attend the next board meeting as an observer before a final decision is made on their membership.

If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will hold an informal online information session on 26th March at 6.30pm with two of the current board members, please contact us if you would like to attend. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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.

Lock keepers have been a fixture on Britain’s canals for hundreds of years and are one of the oldest traditions of the waterways. As ‘the face of the waterway’, modern-day volunteer lock keepers play an integral part in the visitor experience. Their role is to provide a polite and friendly welcome to waterway visitors, assisting boaters through the locks and helping to maintain the area.

It’s a perfect opportunity for those who enjoy working in the outdoors and are perhaps looking for something different to do and want to help support the Canal & River Trust. The key qualities we’re looking for are enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

Anyone can join as long as you are over the age of 18 and have a least a day a week available.

Lock keepers have been a fixture on Britain’s canals for hundreds of years and are one of the oldest traditions of the waterways. As ‘the face of the waterway’, modern-day volunteer lock keepers play an integral part in the visitor experience. Their role is to provide a polite and friendly welcome to waterway visitors, assisting boaters through the locks and helping to maintain the area.

It’s a perfect opportunity for those who enjoy working in the outdoors and are perhaps looking for something different to do and want to help support the Canal & River Trust. The key qualities we’re looking for are enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. 

Anyone can join as long as you are over the age of 18 and can aim to be available for at a least a day a week. Following appropriate selection, training and induction sessions we expect the role to commence fully around April and run through to October (local variations may apply).

For everyone, for ever starts with every one of us.

We’re looking for great people to help protect nature, beauty and history for the next generation. The National Trust Council is a unique opportunity to bring your skills and experience to ensure we deliver our objectives as a charity. It’s also an exciting time to join our Council as the Trust goes into a new strategy period. Our Strategy: People and Nature Thriving.

Our Council members make important appointments, help inform strategy and keep us connected to our members, local communities and the wider public. It’s important that the Council reflects the breadth and diversity of our work and the energy, enthusiasm and experience of Council members are invaluable to us. These volunteers make a real difference. And so could you. We welcome application from all members over the age of 18.

About the Council

The Council plays an important role in how the National Trust is governed. Its main responsibilities are:

• To appoint Trustees
• To monitor and support their work
• To ensure our strategy is consistent with our charitable purpose and that it is being delivered by the Board of Trustees

You can read more about our Council’s role and the Council’s current members on our website.

Council members are ambassadors for our work and inspire support for the Trust among members and the wider public.

The Council’s strength comes from the breadth of knowledge and experiences of the people on it. It has 36 members – an equal balance of elected and appointed people. The elected members are directly chosen by members of the National Trust. The appointed members come from organisations (chosen by our members every six years) which have a connection to the Trust’s work.

Wherever you are in your career path or whatever you do, your input could help us look after inspiring places for future generations. Now’s your chance to make a real difference.

Time Commitment

Council members will be elected from November 2025 for three years and can expect to spend about ten days a year on Council business. There are three Council meetings a year, including one which is held as part of a three-day visit hosted by one of our regions or countries. Meetings are likely to be a mix of in person and virtual. The time commitment is spread across these activities and includes time for preparation. There is also the opportunity to get more involved if you wish with additional briefings, informal property visits or by supporting the work of the Council’s committees.

Council meetings are usually held during the working day, allowing time for travel where appropriate. The 2026 schedule is as follows:

• Early February 2026
• Three days in June/July 2026 (regional visit)
• Early October 2026

Council members may serve a maximum of three three-year terms, subject to re-election or re-appointment. Some of our Council members go on to become Trustees.

Council membership is a voluntary role, therefore, as with all our volunteer roles, travel expenses are reimbursed, as are additional expenses incurred such as accommodation.

You can also read more about the specific responsibilities of the Council in section 1.13 of the Governance Handbook.

About You

We encourage applications from all backgrounds. Your unique ideas, experiences, and outlook will contribute to our diverse Council. Showcase your qualities and experiences—most importantly, demonstrate your passion for our work.

If you have knowledge, attributes and experience that you think will help our Council oversee our Board’s delivery of our strategy, please consider putting yourself forward.

The Council’s Nominations Committee, which oversees the election, is happy to receive applications from volunteers and non-members as well as members. However, in order to be eligible to stand for election to the Council our constitution requires that candidates are members of the National Trust. Membership will need to be taken up by 31 March 2025 if you wish to go forward to the election.

The Nominations Committee wishes to be fully inclusive and fair to all candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments to submit your application, please let us know.

About the Election and Election Process

This year we are expecting to fill seven election vacancies for a three-year term starting after the AGM in November 2025.

Standing for election involves making an application to our Nominations Committee and having your candidacy published to our members in the autumn in the election material and on our website. In fairness to all candidates, you should not participate in any other methods of publicising your candidature.

A ballot of members is conducted in September/October and the results are usually announced at the AGM.

Please note that the Nominations Committee is required to recommend to members those candidates who they believe are best suited to undertaking the work of the Council. In reaching its recommendation, the Committee will consider how candidates demonstrate the broad range of the qualities and experience we’re looking for and can help the Trust achieve its ambition of being for everyone – you can find out more about these in the candidate information.

Any current members of the Council who are standing for re-election should note that attendance records for meetings will be published.

Please read our Code of Conduct which applies to everyone who volunteers in a non-executive capacity.

How to apply and closing date

If you would like to stand for election, you will need to complete an application which contains the following:

• A candidate information form [JH1] which includes your election statement and answers to two questions posed by the Nominations Committee, as well as a completed declaration and affirmation;
• Supplementary information which you can use to explain anything that you think might be helpful to the Nominations Committee that is not included elsewhere in your application;
• A brief CV (maximum length two sides of A4);

Next Steps

The Nominations Committee will meet in April to review applications and will invite a number of candidates to meet the Committee. You can expect to hear from us about the progress of your application towards the end of April.

The Committee will meet invited candidates on 1, 2 & 8 May 2025. We plan to hold these meetings online and alternative arrangements may be possible if candidates have issues accessing online meetings, you’ll just need to let us know. The Nominations Committee aims to match its recommendations to the number of vacancies which are expected this year.

Please note that valid election statements of all eligible candidates, whether or not they are invited to meet the Committee, will go forward for publication to our members. Anyone wishing to withdraw from the election process will need to notify us by 30 May 2025.

If you are successful in the election, you will be invited to attend an induction day in January 2026 in one of our offices, either Swindon or London.

Could you use your social media, marketing and communications experience to raise the profile of a small charity? Help us to increase our social media presence and engagement, generate greatr content and help promote existing activities.

Our charity delivers a range of awareness campaigns and support services to patients, relatives, partners and carers who have been affected by a poorly understood pain condition; Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). We are looking for 2 experienced social media and communications volunteers who are able to develop posts and campaigns from design to inception, create fresh and engaging content, increase engagement and to increase awareness of the charity and of the condition we represent.

Even though we are a small organisation we have big ideas and would like to draw on your experience in the communications world to help the charity deliver engaging content and communications to help us spread our aims and message to all our audience.

What Will You Be Doing?

• Engagement: Help increase engagement, improve the number of followers/likes, create & execute a content calendar
• Content Creation: Produce fresh, branded and engaging content for our social media channels 
• Graphics: Prepare graphics and text for sharing across channels 
• Strategy: Help develop a social media strategy
• Engage with our followers and encourage interaction 
• Manage and maintain social media channels on a regular basis
• Support charity campaigns, marketing, events and fundraising activities by promoting them on our social media feeds
• Use your creative skills to devise strategies to engage, grow, and widen our target audiences
• Develop publicity materials and communication techniques for social media to raise awareness of our chronic condition 

You will be with a small team of volunteers who will provide an overview of our existing social media content, our brand and how we have approached our social media content to date. 

Experience
We are looking for a volunteer who has experience in:

• Different types of marketing and communications media, including electronic and social media
• Writing and editing marketing content for social media platforms including Facebook, X, Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn (especially TikTok, Instagram Reels & posts and YouTube)
• Building strategies to increase social media following and /or build fundraising or awareness campaigns
• Developing a coherent brand voice for social media, from content creation to community interactions
• Using and setting up tools such as Buffer, Canva etc
• Creating and executing content calendars to help plan social media activity 

Skills Required

• Excellent written communication skills
• Accuracy and attention to detail 
• Creative writing and design abilities
• Good computer and digital skills
• Enthusiasm for communications and marketing and willingness to learn
• Ability to quickly understand the needs of our team / organisation / users
• Ability to transform small snippets of information into interesting and engaging stories suitable for X, Facebook, Instagram etc.
• Understands the resource constraints of a small charity and is able to work with these
• Open to feedback 
• An interest in helping Burning Nights CRPS Support achieve its aims
• Good organisational skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills, and able to work as part of a team

What Difference You Will Make
You will join the charity during a critical and challenging period and your expert knowledge and experience will be invaluable to our success. You will have a key role in ensuring we can maintain our support services and become a sustainable charity to allow us to fulfil our aims.

Benefits

You would be a part of our small, friendly and forward-thinking charity team, focused on reaching people who may not have heard about the charity or about the condition. You would have a key role in developing a socoal media strategy for a small charity. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference to a rare condition.
You will further develop your communication skills, gain PR and marketing experience and develop your social media skills.

This is a remote volunteering role, volunteering from your own home.

Volunteer opportunity to help White Ribbon Aliiance UK's update our website content and configuration so that they are relevant, engaging and user-friendly to support our mission to improve maternal and reproductive health. 

Role Description 

Role: Website Management Volunteer (Volunteer, unpaid)

Supported by: Movement Director

About White Ribbon Alliance UK: We prioritise the eradication of gender-based violence and the promotion of gender equity in sexual and reproductive health and rights, especially for marginalised and underrepresented communities. We enable access to unbiased and evidenced-based resources, education, and support for women, girls, and trans individuals. We influence healthcare professionals, hospital systems, policy makers, and the public to centre the human rights of women, girls and trans men, intersex, and non-binary people throughout the lifecycle of their sexual health needs. 

Purpose of the Role: The Volunteer Website Manager will support White Ribbon Alliance UK's efforts to improve maternal and reproductive health by helping us on a two month project working to polish up our websites to keep them relevant, up to date and engaging for members of the public. 

Our aspirations for activities the volunteer would perform:

• Review our websites and provide constructive feedback and pragmatic recommendations for improvement.

• Update and maintain our website, ensuring it’s visually appealing and aligns with our brand.

• Ensure that content on our websites meets with internal and external policies and guidelines.

• Work with our team to understand website needs and integrate feedback for improvements.

• Utilise SharePoint and Microsoft Teams for collaboration and document management. 

• Handle ad hoc work required by the charity such as social media, copy writing, administrative tasks, etc.

NOTE: We are looking for volunteers who can reliably contribute 5 or more hours per week for an 8-10 week period to the charity. 

Necessary skills and qualifications:

• Proven expertise in creating and maintaining websites.

• Interest in sexual and reproductive health (SRHR). 

• Strong understanding of, and passion for, intersectional feminism. 

• Effective communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Familiarity with website building tools such as GoDaddy, Squarespace, and Wix.

• Proficiency in Canva, Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, or similar platforms. 

Desirable skills and qualifications: ​

• Photo and video editing skills. 

• Social media content creation skills.

• A basic understanding of HTML. 

Why volunteer with us?

• A referencable project for your CV and portfolio.

• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects in the SRHR space. 

• Development of new skills, including experience working in nationwide non-profit organization. 

• Network with professionals and activists in the field.

• Personal and professional development opportunities, including rerenceable projects for your portfolio.

• Flexible volunteering hours to suit your schedule. 

Diversity and Inclusion: We highly value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals in underrepresented communities, such as Black, Asian, disabled, chronically ill, LGBTQ+, and retired individuals. .

APPLICANTS RESIDING INSIDE OF THE UK must already have the eligibility to work in the United Kingdom. The charity cannot sponsor any visas. We are particularly keen to have volunteers located in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland join the team; however, those residing in England are equally welcome. 

APPLICANTS RESIDING OUTSIDE OF THE UK may volunteer if the laws in your resident country allow you to perform the activities mentioned in this role description and to volunteer outside of your resident country.