Volunteer Roles in East Midlands

You could become part of our team of trained, supportive and compassionate volunteers who are at the core of the support we provide. Our volunteers share an unshakeable commitment to the welfare of the families they support and remind families that they matter.

Our home-visiting volunteers are each matched with a family and commit to providing 2-3 hours of support once a week (between Mondays-Fridays and within the hours of 9am-5pm). The focus of this support is relationship-building within the whole family unit. They might need help accessing support, getting out of the house, or just a friendly person to talk about their worries with.

In the same way that there is no typical ‘Home-Start family’, there is no typical ‘Home-Start volunteer’ either. Our families are individual and diverse and having a diverse range of volunteers helps us to pair the two effectively.

• We welcome volunteers of all ages and from all sections of the community.
• No special qualifications are necessary, but volunteers are usually parents or grandparents with a love of people, and an interest in, and experience of, young children and family life.
• For our home-visiting volunteers we ask that you commit to a free friendly volunteer training course.
• We will offer you regular training and development workshops.
• You will have back up, and ongoing support in the form of regular one-to-one catch ups with your volunteer coordinator.

If you share our passion for helping families, this could be the role for you!

For those interested in becoming a volunteer, we ask that an ‘Expression of Interest Form’ (found on our website) is submitted and then we can get in touch with you to talk you through the application and training process.

Here are some quotes from some of the families our volunteers have supported, to show just how much of an impact our volunteers have:

“I felt really supported.  I get the kids out now, I’m more confident and I speak out a bit more.”

"My eldest loves our volunteer and doesn’t want her to leave. It was like having heaven when she was around…She has been so helpful just giving me some time to myself to reset for the day. She’s the best person I’ve ever had support wise! "

“All the support was good and just what I needed it was good helping the healing process being able to talk to the volunteer has helped me become more open with friends in general.”

"I have found it really helpful to talk to someone who is non-judgemental and has first-hand experience of being a Mum."

If you think this volunteering role is for you, then please do get in touch.  We look forward to hearing from you.

Finance, Audit and Risk Committee (FAR) Member - Voluntary position.Seeking a volunteer to guide the financial and strategic direction of CILIP.

About the role

CILIP (The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals) is seeking a committed and enthusiastic person to join our Finance, Audit, and Risk Committee. This is a great time to get involved as we work to improve how we support library, knowledge and information professionals across the UK

As a member of the FAR Committee, you’ll help guide the financial and strategic direction of CILIP.  Ensuring we continue to support our members and promote the importance of libraries and information services in society.

About CILIP

CILIP is the UK’s professional body for librarians and information specialists. We help our members develop their skills and careers while advocating for the value of libraries, knowledge and information services.

• Vision: A professional community, dedicated to changing lives through quality information, services and expertise.
• Mission: To be the leading professional membership association for people working in information, knowledge, libraries and related disciplines.
• Values: We will stand for and actively champion the values that unite our profession: Social justice, Intellectual freedom and Evidence-based practice

Role Responsibilities

As part of the FAR Committee, you will provide advice and oversight on financial and risk matters. Your role will include:

• Reviewing the financial planning, budgeting, and reporting of CILIP's Executive team
• Ensuring robust financial controls, audit and risk management processes are in place
• Helping to develop strategies to achieve our goals
• Ensure CILIP manages its resources responsibly
• Acting in the best interests of the charity

Who We Are Looking For: 

We’re looking for someone with financial expertise who shares our mission and values.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with financial expertise who wants to make a real difference. We are particularly interested in candidates who:

• Have a background in charity finance, accounting, audit practices or a related field
• Have experience managing investment portfolios
• Possess strong strategic thinking and leadership skills

Will I be paid?

CILIP FAR members are volunteers and these positions are unpaid but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed, in line with CILIP’s expenses policy.  

Diversity and Inclusion

CILIP is an equal opportunities employer and committed to championing diversity, inclusion, and representation. We particularly welcome applications from people from under-represented groups. If you need any reasonable adjustments for any part of the recruitment process, please do let us know. 

Induction and Support

Trustee experience is not needed.  New trustees will receive full training and support to help them succeed in the role. You’ll work with our trustees and in partnership with our Chief Commercial Officer, ensuring accountability to the board as a whole.

This role offers opportunities for personal fulfilment and professional development while supporting an organisation that makes a difference.

If you are passionate about empowering library, knowledge and information professionals and want to use your financial expertise to make a difference, we would love to hear from you.

How to apply

Send a copy of your CV and personal statement by 6th April 2025.

Registered Charity No 313014

Fundraising Volunteer

Team: Regional fundraising

Responsible to: Head of Regional Community Fundraising

Potential time commitment per week: 4-6 hours

Location: Midlands

Rethink Mental Illness (RMI) is one of the UK’s leading mental health charities providing on the ground support and signposting to over 100,000 people each year. In England 1 in 4 of us will suffer some form of mental health issue in our lifetimes the services RMI provide are vital in ensuring people suffering from mental health can live their best lives.

Our Fundraisers raise much needed funds through as variety of activities and events throughout the UK. This could be a charity ball, bake sale or a carol concert. You will supported in your role by your local the head of regional community fundraising. 

We are looking for volunteers who have:

• Good  interpersonal and listening skills
• Good organisational and networking  skills
• Passionate interest in raising funds for Rethink Mental Illness
• Moderate IT skills
• Have previous fundraising experience (not essential )

General tasks include:

• Meet with regional teams and other volunteers  to discuss ideas/developments and fundraising opportunities.
• Help in the organising, running  and promoting of  specific events
• Work together with regional team other volunteers to develop community fundraising initiatives.
• Collect and deposit funds in branch account

What can we offer you?

• Gain valuable experience for your CV
• Meet new people in the local community
• Make a valuable contribution to the work of Rethink Mental Illness 
• Induction and ongoing training and support within your role

Recruitment process: We aim to run an inclusive volunteering programme, which is open to all. We particularly welcome applications from people who have, or have been affected by poor mental health.

Our process of recruitment is: an on line Application form

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.

PR Volunteer for Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research
5 hours a week (hybrid)
Unpaid except expenses

Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research is a small independent charity based at the National Spinal Injuries Centre in Buckinghamshire. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for people living with spinal cord injury. We fund research throughout the UK into the complications of spinal cord injury (SCI), funding projects tackling issues such as bladder & bowel, neuropathic pain, mental health and upper limb function.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and creative volunteer to join our small team as a PR Volunteer, ideally with experience of drafting and issuing media releases, sourcing and pitching promotional stories, and dealing with media/journalists. The role would not need to encompass social media which is already dealt with in-house.

This opportunity is perfect for someone passionate about PR, with a good level of skill and ‘know-how’ in how to help spread the word about our work in raising funds to support spinal cord injury research and the SCI community.
Ideally, we would like you to:

• Develop and implement publicity strategies to promote SMSR events, news, campaigns and general fundraising activities
• Be proactive in sourcing PR opportunities, both locally and nationally, as well as online
• Write and distribute press releases promoting our news, events, and campaigns
• Develop and nurture relationships with local media contacts and wider media
• Track and report on any PR/publicity efforts

Benefits:

• Gain valuable experience in public relations and working in a small, friendly charity team
• Add to your professional portfolio
• Network with media professionals and spinal cord injury influencers
• Be part of a small, yet dynamic, non-profit organisation based at the renowned National Spinal Injuries Unit, Stoke Mandeville, Aylesbury.

Expenses
This is a volunteer role. Travel expenses will be paid.

For more information, and to apply, please send your CV and a Covering Letter outlining your experience and what you could bring to the role to:
Charlotte Minoprio, Head of Development
Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research, National Spinal Injuries Centre, HP21 8AL  @lifeafterpara | Reg Charity No 1183744

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

Unfortunately cats can occasionally stray or get lost, which can be extremely distressing for their owners. Our lost and found volunteers are passionate about reuniting lost cats and bringing families back together. They help cats and their owners by advertising lost cats and providing support, advice and guidance to people searching for their cats.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Responding to enquiries from the public about lost and found cats
• Keeping up to date records of lost and founds cats
• Matching cats that are reported lost with those reported found
• Advertising lost and found cats
• Providing help and information to owners about their lost cats

Time expectation 

Our lost and found volunteers usually spend between 2 to 3 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

The Community Forest Trust (CFT) supports, enables and champions England’s 15 Community Forests, creating a strong and resilient network of woodlands that enhance the environment for people, wildlife and the wider planet.

Who we are.

Community Forest Trust supports, enables and champions England’s network of Community Forests so that they have an increasing and positive impact on people’s health and happiness and the environment – improving the agriculture, commerce, and climate of derelict or harmful sites.

Community Forests ensure urban areas are economically, socially and environmentally more sustainable and resilient for everyone. They support the regeneration of local communities and create better places. They also educate and empower people about environmental matters and transform places for the social and economic well-being of the community.

About the role.

CFT  is a registered charity with a Board of Trustees and has a small but dynamic team.

They are currently looking for a Finance Trustee to join the Board to work with the existing Senior Finance Trustee.

This is a great opportunity to contribute to a high-profile agenda and support the delivery of national programmes of tree planting.

All trustees must be committed to helping take the organisation through the next few years of dynamic and exciting change, evolution of operations and on-the-ground delivery.

Who are we looking for?

CFT is looking for an additional Finance Trustee. They need to be aligned with CFT’s values and able to bring the skills listed below.

Person Specifications:

CFT need an additional board member with the specific skills, outlined below, who also brings vision and an appreciation and understanding of how to grow a network in a non-traditional and decentralised way that empowers all partners and stakeholders.

Strategic Finance & Risk Trustee:

CFT is seeking a finance and risk Trustee who has a background as a Chief Finance Officer, Finance Director or Finance Manager who can offer strategic guidance to a multi-faceted, multi-million-pound charity at this pivotal time in their growth.

This individual needs to be a qualified accountant with experience in operating at a strategic level. A person who appreciates the needs of a complex and growing organisation with diverse income and expenditure is needed for this role. CFT’s finances are multi-faceted because they apply for funding, distribute grants and are also developing their Green Finance work so that they can monetise the outputs of England’s Community Forests, as appropriate. They are also diversifying their income including through fundraising.

The new trustee will attend the quarterly Board meetings and also support the Senior Finance Trustee in chairing the quarterly Finance & Risk Committee for CFT. They will work with the CEO and Finance Manager as well as the external auditors concerning all financial matters and relevant reporting cycles.

We very much welcome applications from candidates without previous trustee experience.

All Trustees must align with CFT’s Values:

• CFT are passionate about the power of trees to transform urban environments.

· They aim to innovate, share knowledge and collaborate to achieve best practice in the field of community forestry.

• They see England’s Community Forests as a way to achieve widespread, environmental, social and economic benefits.
• CFT act as an advocate for England’s Community Forests and aims to listen, be responsive and work in close partnership; and
• They work in partnership with others. This includes a combined ECF level and the individual ECFs.

CFT are also interested in the development of diversity on their board and want to encourage younger professionals to apply.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 28th April.

The Martin James Foundation (MJF) is a global network of charitable organisations working with a shared vision of a world in which children grow up and thrive in safe and loving families.

Through our work, we strive to bring an end to institutional care for children, including orphanages, by engaging in family strengthening work and gatekeeping to prevent family separation, reunification and reintegration of children back into their families and communities when possible and facilitating family-based alternative care when it is necessary. 

The Foundation is comprised of the following:

• MJF Global - utilises technical and financial resources generated by the Foundation to invest in partner organisations that support children and families in various countries, contributing to the global efforts in deinstitutionalising care practices.

• Key Assets - independent, non-profit fostering agencies in Australia, Canada, Japan, and New Zealand delivering charitable services for children, families and communities.

The Role:

The Martin James Foundation is currently seeking a new Chairperson. This is an exciting time for the Foundation as we continue to deliver on our new Strategy. We are looking for an individual who will contribute to guiding the charity on its mission to support children and families around the world.

For the Chairperson role, we are hoping to attract candidates with the following:

1. Required - Experience in a leadership capacity within the i) children’s social care sector, ideally foster care and/or family support services, ii) and/or in the provision of global development,
2. Required – Time commitment – availability to prepare for and attend quarterly board meetings, quarterly sub-committee meetings and monthly CEO catch-ups (estimate 8hrs per month),
3. Location – UK, or amenable to attend meetings within GMT working hours, and amenable to attending one face to face meeting per annum.
4. Desirable – Local or national government engagement experience, such as securing and delivering contracts or lobbying for policy change,
5. Desirable – Prior experience as a Charity Trustee (or non-UK equivalent), ideally as a Chair

Applications from people with experience in the practical, operational delivery of community and development projects, either in the UK or internationally, would be highly welcomed.

Board positions are voluntary, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed, and any training costs will be covered.

The Martin James Foundation strives to enable a diverse range of participation and contributions, and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds. People with lived experience of alternative care, and from people outside of the UK are encouraged to apply.

***Please note that this is an opportunity based in Nottingham in the United Kingdom and we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOT A PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITY AND IS NOT OPEN TO STUDENT VOLUNTEERS

What is the purpose of this role?

The Sybil Levin Day Service is a specialist SPECAL-Led day service supporting people with dementia and their carers using the SPECAL method.

What activities might you be involved in?

• Assisting centre attendees to engage in activities.
• Serving meals and drinks.
• Helping to set up and clear away activities.
• Engaging in conversation with centre attendees.
• Volunteering in line with the Charity’s policies and procedures and adhering to the Volunteer Code of Conduct

What are we looking for?

• People with a genuine interest in the wellbeing of people with dementia.
• A friendly, sensitive and kind approach.
• Being comfortable in small groups or on a one to one basis.
• People with a commitment to using the SPECAL method at all times whilst at the centre.

When would you be needed to volunteer?

The centre is open from Monday to Friday and would like volunteers to commit to a morning or afternoon at least once a week as a minimum.

What training will you be given?

You will be given all the training you need to enable you to carry out your role.  This will include a thorough Charity induction and a departmental induction to provide further information about the role.  You will also be given access to our online training library to complete the training modules that are mandatory for your role.

You will receive SPECAL training prior to commencing your role.

What can you gain from this opportunity?

• The chance to make a difference to the lives of people with dementia.
• Ongoing support, ensuring your volunteering experience is a fulfilling and positive one.
• A comprehensive training programme.
• The opportunity to learn new skills.
• Experience to add to your CV.
• The opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.
• Reimbursement of out of pocket expenses as defined in the Age UK Notts Volunteer Handbook

***Please note that we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***

ABOUT SPRINGBOARD

Springboard Youth Academy supports refugee and asylum-seeking young people who have recently arrived in the UK to help them succeed in the classroom and beyond. By combining participatory learning, life skills and holistic support into action-packed weekend, half-term and summer programming, we work to bridge the gap in support for young people left behind by the mainstream school system.

As educators and youth workers with years of experience working to offset the challenges these young people face, we launched a programme that helps young people develop their English language and self-advocacy skills whilst addressing their social and wellbeing needs, preparing them for mainstream education and helping them rebuild their lives in the UK.

We do this by providing interactive and engaging programming that combines English learning, life skills and practical and emotional strategies for young people on their journey to independence and adulthood. 

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

As Springboard’s Youth Academy’s activities and ambitions continue to grow, we are seeking a Secretary to join our existing Board of Trustees. 

We’re looking for people who share our love of high quality and participatory education, as well as our commitment to supporting and platforming displaced young people. We're keen to meet people who can bring skills, knowledge and both professional and lived experience that will help us continue to refine our delivery and grow. 

We are committed to nurturing a board that is representative, diverse and inclusive. We are interested to hear from individuals with experience in governance, as well as those new to Trustee positions. We are particularly encouraging applications from those with personal experience of forced migration and Leaving Care. 

Responsibilities of the Secretary include:

• Organising meetings
• Taking minutes and summarising actions for a team
• Contributing to Charity Commission reporting
• Preparing papers for board meetings
• Convening the Chair and Director to develop meeting agendas
• Assisting with planning Springboard’s annual Away Day 

Qualities: 

• Strategic thinking
• Excellent communication skills
• Confidence and a willingness to speak their mind and ask challenging questions
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality
• Understanding of the wider political landcape, abolitionist perspectives and commitment to challenging the hostile environment
• Independent judgment
• Commitment to making meetings inclusive and welcoming to Trustees with all levels of experience
• Advocacy and networking skills to help us build new relationships
• Willingness to offer expertise, skills and personal insight to support us
• Passion for championing work that centres newly arrived young people

TIME COMMITMENT

In line with all charities, Trustees are unpaid volunteers. Trustees must be able to commit to attending quarterly Board meetings and making time to read paperwork in advance of Board meetings. As a small charity, our resources are limited and Trustees are also asked to actively contribute their skills in relevant areas. As a guideline, Trustees must be prepared to offer a minimum of two hours per month to the charity. 

As Secretary, you will be required to spend approximately 1-2 hours prior to each quarterly meeting supporting with preparation. We also require new Trustees to spend one day on site during one of our programmes to get a feel for the work, as well as undertake Trustee and Safeguarding training, within the first three months of starting the role. Board meetings are currently held virtually, and, where possible, are arranged at least two months ahead. On occasion, Trustees will be required to respond by email or phone in relation to issues that arise outside of Board meetings. Travel costs will be covered if they are a barrier. 

We are looking for a new leader to guide and support our local team of friendly volunteers. If you’re inspired to lead others and be part of a genuinely transformational charity, then we would love to hear from you. You will use your leadership skills to manage and chair our local management team meetings and AGM, help set the vision and strategy for the group and network within the local community and be a passionate spokesperson for Read Easy UK and for our local branch.

This is a hugely important role in the Management Team, and you will be driving the proper and effective direction of the local group from the front.

This role will appeal to you if you are motivated by managing a team of diverse volunteers, and by the challenge of ultimately helping hundreds of adults in our community to learn to read. 

Started in 2011 by Central London Samaritans, Facing the Future is a program that offers support for people bereaved by suicide through free of charge online peer support groups across the UK and Ireland.

The branch is looking for a support volunteer to assist in the recruitment, communication with and coordination of applicants of the role of Facing the Future Facilitator, which at present is only open to current Samaritans listening volunteers.

Working mostly from home, with some infrequent in person meetings at our branch building in Marylebone with dates agreed ahead of time, the successful candidate will demonstrate good communication skills, an ability to work independently and ideally possess a background in administrative roles and knowledge of typical tools such as Office Suite and Outlook. 

An interest in the work of Samaritans and supporting those suffering grief and bereavement would also be very much sought after.

Please see the attached role profile for further details. 

Thank you. 

Can you help give musical talent a chance?

Over the last 26 years our committed team of trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters have made Young Sounds UK one of the largest and most respected charities in music education. As we move into the next phase of our development, we’re looking for a committed chair with energy, passion and the time to continue to help drive us forward. The successful candidate will work closely with the CEO to ensure the charity continues to achieve its ambitions and will lead the board in delivering its responsibility for the overall governance and strategic direction of Young Sounds UK.

We want to hear from people who are passionate about and willing to advocate strongly for giving those young people facing the most barriers the support they need to fulfil their potential. We also expect candidates to demonstrate a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

If you think this may be you, please see our recruitment pack for more information and to apply.

If you’d like an informal chat with one of our current trustees, please email Young Sounds’ CEO.

As a Volunteer Education Mentor, you'll join a dynamic team to deliver 8 mentoring sessions over 8 weeks aimed at building group rapport and covering essential topics like communication, goal setting and problem solving. These sessions will be with a consistent group of young people, ensuring you can build meaningful connections and see their progress over time.

You'll be supported throughout this process by a King's Trust Youth Development Lead, who will provide guidance and resources to help you succeed. 

The sessions will typically last 1 hour and will take place face-to-face in a secondary school environment. The frequency and timing of these sessions will be determined by the school, and you will choose a school that fits your availability, as your consistent attendance is crucial. 

Please see Manchester school locations and dates:

• Worsley – every Tuesday beginning on 29th April 2025
• Crumpsall – every Thursday beginning on 1st May 2025 

An educational background is not required, but a genuine interest in engaging with and developing the skills of young people is essential. Session content will be provided, and you will be expected to develop and review the plans each week. Key skills required are effective communication, organisation and reliability.

Full training will be provided to ensure you feel confident and prepared, please be expected to commit to an in person training, as well as some virtual training.

Take a look at this video to see the impact this programme makes …https://youtu.be/dmf7fG1c69Y

In return for your valuable time, you'll become part of a dedicated community of volunteers. You'll experience the satisfaction of directly impacting the success of young people, many of whom face significant barriers and challenges. 

Additionally, you'll enjoy personal development and the pleasure that comes from working for a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of children and young people.

Join us at The King's Trust and make a lasting impact!

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• keeping financial records from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.