Advocacy Volunteer Roles

Disability charity in Brighton seeks new trustees. Help shape the next 5 years as we go through an exciting period of change.

A well established charity operating in Brighton & Hove and across Sussex, we are a user led organisation, whose membership, staff, volunteers, and trustees, are drawn from people with a personal or professional experience of disability. 

Our charity has been through a period of change, with a new Chief Executive Officer appointed in August 2024, following a year with an Interim CEO in place. We are ambitious about what we can achieve, and passionate about being the voice of disabled people within our communities. We are navigating a period of cultural change and discovering new opportunities to develop our work and reach broader communities. 

The charity has faced a changing and challenging funding landscape, with local councils and grant making bodies both reducing the monies available, against a background of rising costs. We have diversified our income streams, but seek further help and direction with this and in particular are seeking fundraising skills and innovative income generation and marketing ideas. 

We envisage the next 5 years as being a period of growth and change with real opportunities to shape the future direction of the charity. We are seeking trustees who have relevant professional skills across a broad range of areas who can help us move into the next stage of the charity's development with confidence. 

Currently 75% of our staff and volunteers have lived experience of disability and as a disability charity we particularly welcome applications from disabled trustees or those with lived experience. However, we welcome all applications.  

As a course of positive action and to ensure a wide representation of our diverse communities, we actively encourage applications from younger people, people from minority ethnic groups, people from the lesbian and gay communities, and those who are transgender, non-binary, or gender-diverse. We recognise these communities are currently under-represented on our board and we would love to hear from you.

Becoming a trustee is a rewarding and interesting role, with plenty of opportunity for personal growth. More importantly, you have the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of disabled people and those living with long-term health conditions, including mental health.

We are looking for to increase the number of trustees on our board and are looking for candidates who are truly passionate about our vision and mission. Maybe you could play a part in ensuring the development and sustainability of the charity as we continue to support disabled people and look towards the future?

We need trustees with the right skills and experience to guide and challenge the strategic direction of every area of the organisation. 

As a charity it is imperative we have a reliable Board, fit for purpose. You don’t need prior experience being a trustee; If you are committed, passionate, and determined, we would love to hear from you.

Volunteer befrienders offer the older, housebound people in our community a chance to connect socially, have a cup of tea, and a chat.  Could you be a much-needed social visitor to one of them this year? Training and support is provided.  Time and Talents is a welcoming community space and volunteering with us provides fantastic opportunities to connect with your community, build your skills, and even make new friends! We provide induction, training and continuous support, alongside opportunities to meet other volunteers.  We work hard to match you with a Befriendee who matches with your availability, personality, and ideally lives walking distance from you within Southwark!

In the first instance, please get in touch here and we will send you our online application form!

- Join the Movement: Empower Young Migrants with We Belong! -

Board of Trustees Chair Role

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young migrants? Do you believe in creating a fair and inclusive society for all?

Immigration is not just a topic of discussion—it's a reality for thousands of young people in the UK. At We Belong, we're pioneering change. We're not just another charity; we're a community led by young migrants, fighting for equal treatment and an end to the hostile immigration environment.

Our Mission:

Co-Founded in 2019 by Chrisann Jarrett MBE, We Belong is more than a charity—it's a force for change. We've already achieved significant victories, from challenging unfair immigration policies to securing scholarships for deserving young people. In 2021, We Belong’s work contributed to a new shorter route to settlement being introduced. Young migrants who are fully integrated in the UK now have five-year route to settlement, rather than the previous 10-years. It’s estimated that that over 300,000 children and young people could benefit from this policy change. Now, we're on a new mission: to ensure that every young migrant has the opportunity to thrive in the UK.

What We Offer:

- Immigration Support: Legal advice, training, and resources to empower young migrants.

- University and Career Support: Guidance on applications, scholarships, and career pathways.

- Leadership Development: Mentorship programs to nurture the leaders of tomorrow.

- Engagement Opportunities: Join our outreach and community engagement efforts.

- Safe Space & Community: A supportive network for guidance and connection.

You can learn more about our work by watching our videos: Education, Leadership Progammes, Mental Health and Support. Please see Position Description attachement for the links to the videos.

The Opportunity:

We Belong is seeking a voluntary Chair to lead our board of Trustees. This is a chance to drive real change, working alongside passionate individuals dedicated to our cause. We need someone with strategic vision, governance experience, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

Key Responsibilities:

- Chair board meetings and provide strategic leadership to the Trustee team.

- Ensure compliance with governing documents and charitable objectives.

- Support the CEO on strategy and best practices.

- Critically assess risks and opportunities and develop effective strategies in the context of the Charitable purpose of We Belong.

- Resolve conflicts and make timely decisions.

Experience & Skills:

We're looking for someone with a background in the migration field, governance, or related fields. Experience in leadership is essential, advocacy, or youth development is highly desirable. We value lived experience and so candidates with lived experience of the UK immigration system are welcome to apply. Most importantly, we need someone with a passion for making a difference.

Time Commitment & Location:

Preparation for quarterly board meetings, both in person and remote, as well as the opportunity to participate in selected committees. The Chair will also supervise the CEO through regular 1:1 meeting and represent We Belong at sector events.

Join Us: Shape the Future!

This is an exciting opportunity to lead We Belong into our next phase of development. If you're ready to champion diversity, empower young migrants, and drive meaningful change, we want to hear from you.

Apply Now: Send your CV and a covering letter outlining why you would like to be the next We Belong Chair to us by the 26th February 5pm. Interviews will be held on the week commencing 3rd and 10th March depending on availability.

Together, let's create a brighter future for young migrants in the UK. With We Belong, you belong.

We Belong - Empowering Young Migrants

VSS Volunteer Fundraising Coordinator (Part-Time)

Job Title: Volunteer Fundraising Coordinator (Part-Time)
Organization: VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools)
Location: United Kingdom (Remote working options available)

VSS Mission:

VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools) promotes positive societal change amongst the disadvantaged youth, communities and organisations globally by connecting elite professional football players, managers, coaches to focus on mental health and well-being themes to empower, inspire and educate the next generation using virtual communication platforms. 

­­­VSS Summary:

VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools) is a UK based charity that has revolutionized the way professional athletes impact lives by connecting football stars with children, communities, and organizations worldwide through cutting-edge virtual communication platforms. Founded in January 2021 by Tom Lamb and driven by Tim Ream (Charlotte FC / USMNT) as our Global Athlete Liaison and Mental Health & Well-Being Advocate, VSS has already made an extraordinary impact. 

In the past few years, we have reached over 70,000 attendees (aged 11 – 18) delivering 180+ events spanning 70+ countries across 6 continents, involving over 50+ elite footballers. Our initiatives focus on mental health and well-being, empowering, inspiring, and educating the next generation. 

We invite you to join us in this unparalleled journey, leveraging the global passion for football to create lasting positive change. Together, we can build a brighter, healthier future for youth around the world.

Position Overview: 

VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools) is looking for a passionate and proactive Volunteer Fundraising Coordinator to identify funding opportunities and craft compelling proposals. This critical role supports our mission to empower the next generation through innovative programs that connect football and mental health.

This part-time volunteer position requires approximately half a day per week, with flexibility to accommodate your schedule.

 Key Responsibilities:

1.Research and identify grants, sponsorships, and donor opportunities.

2. Create, edit, and submit compelling funding proposals and applications.

3. Collaborate with the VSS team to align fundraising initiatives with organizational goals.

4. Build and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, and funding organizations.

Why Join VSS?

• Be part of a trailblazing charity working with Premier League stars to transform the next generations mental health.
• Gain invaluable experience in fundraising, grant writing, and non-profit operations.
• Flexible working arrangements tailored to your schedule.
• Make a meaningful impact on children’s lives worldwide through football and mental health.

Application Process: 

Ready to join the movement? Interested candidates should submit a CV/resume and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience, qualifications, and motivation. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

VSS (Virtual Soccer Schools) is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, to apply.

Barnet SASS provides practical and emotional support to anyone aged 16+ who resides in the Borough of Barnet and experiencing domestic abuse, honour based violence and forced marriage. We have various groups running within the Barnet Service throughout the year. We are also one of the lead DV agency for the One-Stop Shop which is an advice surgery provided by some agencies including,  housing, anti-social behaviour officer from the Barnet Homes, family solicitors, and cybercare.

About the Role

We are looking for a reliable and organised volunteer to assist our duty team, supporting survivors in an advocacy and admin role. Barnet SASS is a busy service, which receives many referrals every day. You will be supporting our duty team to process referrals and key admin work. If you are interested, you can also be trained to contact clients, making initial welcome or check in calls. You will be in the office in Barnet one day a week on Friday to support with this.

Who are we looking for?

We think you’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• An understanding of the issues faced by survivors and a desire to build on this.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Good administrative and computer skills including proficient use of Zoom/Microsoft Teams, Microsoft packages and Outlook.
• An understanding of professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong organisational skills and be able to prioritise your workload.
• Carry out any other duties appropriate to the role as requested by your supervisor.
• Maintain confidentiality in all matters relating to the organisation.

What can you gain from this opportunity?

You will receive training and experience in using a case management system, safeguarding, talking to survivors and processing referrals. You will be part of an inclusive and dynamic team and have opportunities to shadow different roles to develop knowledge and skills. This is a great role if you are interested in joining the sector or working with survivors of domestic abuse.

We also offer great volunteer induction training, where you will be fully supported to understand and carry put every aspect of the role. Training includes CPD accredited courses, and the opportunity to apply to complete the Tackling and Preventing Domestic Abuse Award (DAPA), which is recognized by the Home Office.

Award-winning charity Lewisham Music is seeking a dynamic and passionate Chair of Trustees to lead our Board.

This voluntary role is an opportunity to provide strategic leadership, governance oversight, and advocacy for a vibrant youth charity that brings the transformative power of music to thousands of young people across Lewisham and beyond.

We are looking for a compassionate and skilled leader with:

• Proven experience in leadership or governance, ideally in the charity, arts, or education sectors.
• Strong financial and strategic expertise.
• A commitment to inclusivity, community engagement, and the power of music to change lives.

As Chair, you will work closely with our talented team and Board to shape our future direction, support our incoming CEO, and ensure we continue to thrive as a sustainable and impactful community charity.

The role of the Chair of Trustees

As Chair of Trustees, you will lead Lewisham Music’s Board, ensuring the charity delivers its mission and strategy effectively.

Key Responsibilities...

Strategic leadership:

• Collaborate with the CEO and Board to set vision, priorities, and long-term strategy.
• Ensure decisions align with objectives and monitor progress towards goals.

Governance and oversight:

• Chair Board meetings, set agendas, and foster an inclusive, effective governance culture.
• Ensure legal compliance, risk management, and robust policy development.

Advocacy and fundraising:

• Represent Lewisham Music to funders, stakeholders, and the community.

Financial stewardship:

• Approve budgets and financial plans, ensuring long-term viability.
• Monitor accounts and oversee key liabilities and assets.

CEO support and development:

• Build a strong relationship with the CEO, providing guidance, support and conducting performance reviews.

Staff and trustee development:

• Lewisham Music Chair Recruitment Pack January 2025• Foster a positive, inclusive culture and ensure the Board has the necessary skills and diversity.
• Assist with leadership recruitment as needed.

South East London Music Hub:

• Serve as a Director of SEL Music Education Ltd, the new ‘parent company’ for South East London Music Hub.

What qualities and experience are we looking for?

We are very open to where the new Chair comes from in terms of professional experience/career.

However, we are seeking a passionate and skilled leader with:

• Proven leadership experience (and ideally governance/board experience), preferably within the charity, arts, or education sectors.
• Strong financial management expertise, with the ability to oversee budgets, financial planning, and long-term viability.
• Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to navigate complex personnel, political or social issues with diplomacy and tact.
• Strong crisis management skills, with the ability to lead calmly and decisively in challenging situations.
• A compassionate, inclusive leadership style, with high emotional intelligence and a commitment to fostering an equitable and supportive culture.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, with experience building positive relationships and consensus.
• An understanding of Lewisham and it’s diverse community.

What is the commitment?

• Chairing full board meetings every two months in person. 6-8pm (usually Mondays) at Lewisham Music’s offices above The Fellowship Inn in Bellingham, SE6 3BT.
• SEL Music Education Ltd. Director meetings, 1-1.5 hours online once every 3-4 months.
• Regular email and phone contact with the CEO, as well as annual performance review meetings.
• Reading of agendas and papers sent out in advance of board meetings. Usually sent at least one week in
• advance.
• Additional reading of documents and emails in between board meetings and on a general basis to support the CEO.
• Attending some events, gigs, and concerts when you can.
• Potentially joining a committee which fits your interests/skills- they meet every 2-4 months for 1-1.5 hours, online.
• Attendance at an occasional board ‘away days’, maximum 1 per year.

Length of appointment

The chair and trustees are initially appointed for a 3-year term from the date of the first full board meeting they attend. Trustees can be re-appointed up to a maximum of 6 years.

Please head to our website for more details about the role and to apply.

Lewisham Music is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Supporting men in crisis, saving lives: James’ Place provides vital, life-saving therapy when it’s needed most. Join James' Place as a Trustee and help us transform support for men in suicidal crisis.

Applications close at: 9 a.m. Monday 24th February 2025.

Location: Flexible within the UK

About James’ Place

James’ Place Charity was set up by Clare Milford Haven and Nick Wentworth-Stanley in 2008 after their twenty-one-year-old son, James, died by suicide ten days after a minor operation. James had no history of mental illness or depression and had sought urgent help for anxiety and suicidal thoughts but didn’t find it. We know that suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50, and we know that many men find it difficult to reach out for help.

James’ Place was set up to make the experience of finding help as easy as possible. James’ Place offers men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis a brief, intensive, therapeutic intervention in a safe environment. Men who walk through the door at James’ Place will be in a space where they feel valued and respected.

We have been chosen as one of the charities for The Times and The Sunday Times Christmas Appeal 2024 and we were also thrilled to win two awards at the Royal Society for Public Health and Wellbeing Awards, winning the Public Health Minister’s Award for our innovation and strong academic focus on prevention and inclusion, as well as our regional spread and scale.

The need

Suicide is the leading single cause of death of men under 50, and more men of middle age die by suicide than other causes; 75% of all deaths by suicide are men. History shows that in times of uncertainty and economic hardship, rates of suicide increase. Deprivation, financial insecurity, and unmanageable debt are strongly associated with an increased risk of suicide in men (Samaritans). The pandemic only increased hardship and put people under more significant pressure, and the current cost of living crisis is exacerbating this further.

We know that each death by suicide results in a lifetime of devastation for families, friends and communities, and research shows that for every individual death by suicide, around 135 people are affected.

A person bereaved by suicide is 65% more likely to take their own life than if they were bereaved by another cause, and it has been estimated that every suicide costs the public purse around £1.46m.

About the roles

As we look forward to another year ahead, we are looking to grow and strengthen our board of trustees to govern our growth ambition as we enter the next stage of our development — finding a location for our new centre in Birmingham, driving forward our plans to reach more men, and of course helping as many men in crisis as we can.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for new Trustees to join our board to complement the skills and expertise of our existing members. If you share our values and are passionate about what we do, we’d love to hear from you.

We are particularly keen to hear from individuals with knowledge of strategic clinical services and those with significant charitable experience.

In addition, we welcome individuals with expertise in other areas, such as marketing, communications, public relations, or finance. We are keen for our board to reflect the communities we serve, so we strongly encourage interest from people with lived experience relevant to our work and those from diverse backgrounds.

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 24th February 2025.

Chair of Trustees – Switchback
Transforming Lives, Changing Systems
Switchback is seeking a passionate and experienced Chair of Trustees to lead its Board during an exciting and pivotal time in the charity’s development. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of an innovative organisation that supports young Londoners leaving prison to build stable, rewarding lives and champions systemic change in the justice system.

About Switchback:
Since 2008, Switchback has supported hundreds of young men leaving prison, providing intensive one-to-one mentoring and real work training through its dedicated team of Switchback Mentors. Our pioneering approach has led to remarkable outcomes: while nearly half of prison leavers nationally reoffend within a year, only 9% of Switchback Trainees do, with over half moving into long-term work. In 2024, 68% of our Trainees achieved “Real, Lasting Change”-a fundamental shift in mindset and lifestyle. But Switchback is more than a charity; it’s a movement for change. We aim to expand our reach, influence national policy, and build a resettlement landscape that is effective, equitable, and rooted in lived experience.

About the Role:
As Chair, you will lead a dynamic and diverse Board of Trustees to support Switchback’s strategic ambitions. Working closely with our CEO, you will guide the charity’s growth, ensure strong governance, and champion our mission and values. You will be an advocate for justice reform, helping to open doors and build partnerships that enable sustainable, systemic impact.

Key Responsibilities include:
* Governance and Strategy: Ensure adherence to best governance practices, lead the implementation of a new strategic plan, and ensure EDI is embedded in all aspects of governance and delivery.
* Leadership: Build and lead an inclusive, high-performing Board that supports the CEO and staff team in achieving Switchback’s goals.
* Advocacy and Fundraising: Act as an ambassador for Switchback, leveraging your networks to advance the charity’s reach and influence.

Who We’re Looking For:
We’re seeking a compassionate and experienced leader who is ambitious for Switchback and shares its belief in the dignity and potential of its Trainees.

Essential Attributes:
* Experience as a Trustee, ideally with Chair experience or at a larger organisation.
* A collaborative, empowering and coaching approach to leadership.
* Strong alignment with Switchback’s mission, values, and goals.
* An understanding of the justice system or lived experience that connects you to the challenges faced by our Trainees.
* Strategic insight, with a track record of leading organisations through growth and change and an ability to balance managing risk against innovation
* Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to inspire and unite stakeholders.

Time Commitment:
Approximately two days per month, with flexibility for key periods such as strategy development or major events. The initial term is three years, renewable for up to six further years.

Remuneration:
This is a voluntary position. Travel and other reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Timeline:
A Q&A webinar session will be hosted by Switchback, where further insights will be shared as well as answers to any additional questions you may have. Please register your interest in attending this webinar with your consultant and we will send you a link. This will take place on Tuesday 11th February, 6-7pm.

Application deadline: Monday 24th February

First round interviews: Friday 28th March

Informal call with CEO: Wednesday 3rd April

Final interviews: Wednesday 23rd April

How to Apply:
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to Switchback on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and request a candidate pack. Alternatively, please download a copy of the pack under Application Resources. For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities with which we work.

Our Peripatetic Team provide front-line support to Solace’s Advice, Community and accommodation-based Services across London. Crisis Intervention Workers enable our services to deliver a consistent high standard of service.

The team was created in order to have trained, skilled staff ready to cover gaps in service and facilitate the continued smooth running of services, proactively supporting women and children who have experienced domestic abuse. They are required to go into different teams and quickly establish themselves and provide support in times where staff teams may be struggling.

About the Role

The peripatetic team looks to support our different services when they are in crisis as such this role requires someone who is comfortable with change and can adapt to different services as they will move from team to team.
We need understanding and organised individuals who are keen to learn and develop skills in a variety of areas, are able to build relationships quickly and are able to work independently and also as part of a team.
Volunteers may be assigned to a new team for a duration ranging from a few days to a month, depending on the service needs.
The ideal volunteer will have a good telephone manner, excellent communication skills and be able to show empathy to service users. Volunteers will be given an extensive induction and will learn how to best support those who are experiencing or who have experienced abuse. They will support teams in a variety of ways, overseen by one central manager. The roles and tasks include:

• Perform administration tasks e.g. data entry, uploading minutes
• Answering duty line calls
• Contacting service users to check in, researching and making onward referrals.
• Researching local organisations and assisting to keep stakeholders up to date.
• Complete exit questionnaires and surveys.
• Promote service user involvement and send out relevant information and assist teams to organise events/feedback
  sessions.

Who are we looking for?

We think you’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• Understanding of violence against women and girls issues and a desire to build on this.
• Confidence in using Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to be well organised.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Tact and discretion in handling confidential information.
• Good listening skills and an empathic, non-judgemental approach.
• A willingness to learn and be open to new ideas
• An individual who works to be inclusive and kind

What can you gain from this opportunity?

As part of this role, you will have the opportunity to

• Gain experience and understanding of Violence against Women and Girls.
• Gain knowledge and awareness of abuse, safety planning, risk management options available to service users.
• Build skills around advocacy and negotiation.
• Enabling service users to access valuable support that assists in their journey towards safe, independent lives, free from abuse
• Contribute and support a busy and diverse team.
• Play a pivotal role in delivering services.
• Hands on experience in a dynamic charity working in the Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Sector.
• Improving IT skills and data management.
• Having a line manager who will create a plan with you around what you would like from this experience
• Have support of the Peri team and be buddied up with a staff member

We offer great volunteer induction training, where you will be fully supported to understand and carry put every aspect of the role. Training includes CPD accredited courses, and the opportunity to apply to complete the Tackling and Preventing Domestic Abuse Award (DAPA), which is recognized by the Home Office.

We are looking for some volunteers trained in divorce law to help our current law team at SPSAS.

Missing People is recruiting volunteers with expertise in Safeguarding to sit on our charity Safeguarding Panel. The Panel meets four times a year and assists the charity’s work by acting as critical friends - providing scrutiny, challenge and support to staff around safeguarding best practice.

The Panel is chaired by a Missing People Trustee and meetings are attended by Missing People’s Director of Services and Senior Managers, who present current projects, challenges and work for discussion. 

Description

Someone is reported missing every 90 seconds in the UK. Missing People is the only UK charity dedicated to reconnecting missing people and their loved ones. Our services include:

•  A free and confidential helpline, available 7 days a week, for missing people and their loved ones,
• A specialist family support and counselling service,
• Case publicity to support loved ones with sharing appeals,
• Specialist services for children and young people, and their loved ones, experiencing exploitation,
• Commissioned Return Home Interview services for young people at particular risk,
• Research, consultancy and training for professionals working around the issue of missing.

Our vision is that every missing person is found safe, and it is through the services above that we aim to safeguard and protect children and adults. True to our charity values, we offer confidentiality in order to build a relationship of trust, and we aim to empower our service users, respecting a person’s right to be missing and working with them to keep them safe.

Due to the complexity of the missing experience, we are always looking to improve our systems, processes and practice in relation to safeguarding. We cannot do this effectively without ‘critical friends’ who support the team to evaluate current work by asking the right questions and sharing external expertise.

We are currently recruiting new Safeguarding Panel members. Panel members are asked to:

• Attend and actively participate in Panel meetings - the Panel meets four times a year, usually for one hour. Meetings takes place via video call, and currently, meetings take place on Monday afternoons from 3-4pm.
• Read papers in advance of meetings - these are sent out in advance of the Panel meetings. Preparation for each meeting varies but is never more than 1-2 hours.
• If Panel members are interested, there are also additional opportunities to get further involved with the charity’s work. This is entirely optional.

What impact will you have?

Your input will support Missing People to recognise risk and protect children and adults effectively, safely and within a culture that is always acting on any opportunities for learning. This is vital to our work of providing a lifeline and meaningful support to all individuals and communities impacted by missing.

About the volunteer

We are looking for volunteers with:

• A strong understanding of safeguarding principles and practice, especially within the voluntary and/or statutory sectors.
• Experience of working with children and/or adults in areas such as exploitation, homelessness, mental health, modern slavery, refugee and migrant justice, social care, suicide prevention and victim support.
• Alignment with the ethos of Missing People’s services: to respect the agency of individuals, protect confidentiality and anonymity, and work alongside individuals, wherever possible.
• The ability to ask key questions and provide scrutiny and support to Missing People staff and volunteers (Trustee Panel Members and other Panel Members).
• Commitment to attend quarterly Panel meetings for a period of 3 years (a three-year term).

Trailblazers’ mission is to reduce re-offending and inspire new futures and the charity has been providing mentoring services to people in prison since 1998. We provide support to men between the ages of 18 - 35 in custody who have 6 months left of their prison sentence, and then 'through the gate' into their community for up to 12 months.

In the West Midlands, services are delivered near Wolverhampton at HMP Featherstone and HMPYOI Brinsford. We are looking for volunteer mentors who can spare half a day per week to support young men to change their life by acting as an inspirational role model and helping with goal setting. Mentoring sessions usually last 1 hour per week; allowing enough time for travel and liaising with Trailblazers staff will take about half a day.

Your support will help a young man to reconnect with his own community, friends and loved ones, go into education, training and employment, and to give a person a sense of hope for the future. As a charity we are reliant on volunteers; with your help we can continue to support people in prison to make and change to their lives, their family and wider society. We welcome all skill sets within Trailblazers as we work with a diverse group of men, all we ask if you have a genuine passion for social change and that you can commit to at least 1 young man for up to 12 months, so they have a consistent person in their life - something that some of our mentees have never had. The national average re-offending rate for a person leaving prison is up to 55%, the rate for those who have a Trailblazers mentor is lowered to 9%. 

We are actively looking for people to join our mentoring community with lived experience of the criminal justice system, underrepresented groups from BAME community, creative arts, business skills, wellbeing - whatever your skills and background we are open to hear from you to support our diverse group of men.Out of pocket expenses are covered as well as training to equip you for your role. More information and the application form can be found on the website. 

Role activities:

• To provide a positive role model for people in prison and in their own community, to be empathic and to have a desire and commitment to support people to fulfil their potential.

• To attend and participate fully in the initial and ongoing mentor training.

• To attend group support/supervision meetings and review performance within mentoring relationships.

• To complete mentoring session notes relevant to the mentoring service for monitoring purposes.

• To take part in introductory meetings with mentees and set ground rules and boundaries.

• To report safeguarding concerns immediately.

• To follow relevant policies and procedures. 

• To perform your role in line with the aims of the organisation.

• To meet with and actively develop a supportive relationship with mentees.

• Be prepared to travel and undertake visits for mentoring sessions. 

• To make the necessary practical arrangements to meet the mentee on a weekly or fortnightly basis.

• Assist the mentee to celebrate their achievements.

• Support the mentee to meet identified goals.

• Develop an understanding of the role, responsibilities and boundaries of a volunteer mentor.

• Be committed to the project for a minimum of 12 months.

• Regular communication with Trailblazers staff in support of your mentee. 

Skills/behaviours/knowledge required:

• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and challenges faced by mentees (Desirable) full training will be given. 

• Awareness of own professional boundaries and the ability to report any concerns within the mentoring relationship that could be pertinent to risk to the mentee, or to others. 

• To be an advocate for a mentee and to actively seek opportunities for mentees for resettlement back into their own community in conjunction with Trailblazers staff. 

• To be non-judgmental, focus on the person rather than the offense. 

• Professional but relatable with strong communication skills. 

• Awareness of adversity and how to overcome barriers to build a supportive network around the mentee. 

• Basic IT skills. 

• Be able to take advice and guidance from Trailblazers staff. 

Criteria: 

• Over 21. 

• We encourage applications from those with lived experience of the Criminal Justice System but you must be off licence for a minimum of 12 months, and not in crisis yourself. 

• You cannot apply to a project if you have been a resident in the same prison yourself. 

• A good level of fitness to able to move around a prison at fast past that does include stairs 

• Due to security checks at the prison you must be a British citizen.     

• Not committed an offense where you are barred from working with vulnerable adults or children. 

• Live within a 30-mile radius from the prison at which you would like to volunteer.

Trailblazers’ mission is to reduce re-offending and inspire new futures and the charity has been providing mentoring services to people in prison since 1998. We provide support to men between the ages of 18 - 35 in custody who have 6 months left of their prison sentence, and then 'through the gate' into their community for up to 12 months.

In London, services are delivered at HMP Brixton and HMPYOI Isis. We are looking for volunteer mentors who can spare half a day per week to support young men to change their life by acting as an inspirational role model and helping with goal setting. Mentoring sessions usually last 1 hour per week; allowing enough time for travel and liaising with Trailblazers staff will take about half a day.

Your support will help a young man to reconnect with his own community, friends and loved ones, go into education, training and employment, and to give a person a sense of hope for the future. As a charity we are reliant on volunteers; with your help we can continue to support people in prison to make and change to their lives, their family and wider society. We welcome all skill sets within Trailblazers as we work with a diverse group of men, all we ask if you have a genuine passion for social change and that you can commit to at least 1 young man for up to 12 months, so they have a consistent person in their life - something that some of our mentees have never had. The national average re-offending rate for a person leaving prison is up to 55%, the rate for those who have a Trailblazers mentor is lowered to 9%. 

We are actively looking for people to join our mentoring community with lived experience of the criminal justice system, underrepresented groups from BAME community, creative arts, business skills, wellbeing - whatever your skills and background we are open to hear from you to support our diverse group of men.Out of pocket expenses are covered as well as training to equip you for your role. More information and the application form can be found on the website. 

Role activities:

• To provide a positive role model for people in prison and in their own community, to be empathic and to have a desire and commitment to support people to fulfil their potential.

• To attend and participate fully in the initial and ongoing mentor training.

• To attend group support/supervision meetings and review performance within mentoring relationships.

• To complete mentoring session notes relevant to the mentoring service for monitoring purposes.

• To take part in introductory meetings with mentees and set ground rules and boundaries.

• To report safeguarding concerns immediately.

• To follow relevant policies and procedures. 

• To perform your role in line with the aims of the organisation.

• To meet with and actively develop a supportive relationship with mentees.

• Be prepared to travel and undertake visits for mentoring sessions. 

• To make the necessary practical arrangements to meet the mentee on a weekly or fortnightly basis.

• Assist the mentee to celebrate their achievements.

• Support the mentee to meet identified goals.

• Develop an understanding of the role, responsibilities and boundaries of a volunteer mentor.

• Be committed to the project for a minimum of 12 months.

• Regular communication with Trailblazers staff in support of your mentee. 

Skills/behaviours/knowledge required:

• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and challenges faced by mentees (Desirable) full training will be given. 

• Awareness of own professional boundaries and the ability to report any concerns within the mentoring relationship that could be pertinent to risk to the mentee, or to others. 

• To be an advocate for a mentee and to actively seek opportunities for mentees for resettlement back into their own community in conjunction with Trailblazers staff. 

• To be non-judgmental, focus on the person rather than the offense. 

• Professional but relatable with strong communication skills. 

• Awareness of adversity and how to overcome barriers to build a supportive network around the mentee. 

• Basic IT skills. 

• Be able to take advice and guidance from Trailblazers staff. 

Criteria: 

• Over 21. 

• We encourage applications from those with lived experience of the Criminal Justice System but you must be off licence for a minimum of 12 months, and not in crisis yourself. 

• You cannot apply to a project if you have been a resident in the same prison yourself. 

• A good level of fitness to able to move around a prison at fast past that does include stairs 

• Due to security checks at the prison you must be a British citizen.     

• Not committed an offense where you are barred from working with vulnerable adults or children. 

• Live within a 30-mile radius from the prison at which you would like to volunteer.

Trailblazers’ mission is to reduce re-offending and inspire new futures. Your support will help a young man to reconnect with his community, friends and loved ones, go into education, training and employment, and give a person a sense of hope for the future.

Trailblazers has been providing mentoring services to people in prison since 1998 with ultimate aim to reduce re-offending. We provide support to men between the age of 18 - 35 in custody who have 6 months left of their prison sentence, and then 'through the gate' into their own community for up to 12 months. The Education, Training & Employment (ETE) team supports our mentees in custody to break down barriers to employability. Post-release, this continues by supporting mentees to gain meaningful and career changing roles in sector specific industries such as Construction, Engineering, Catering & Hospitality or the Self-Employment route. 

The ETE team are looking to build a team of volunteers to work with mentees in the community and to shape the existing ETE service in the Thames Valley area. We are looking for volunteer mentors who can commit for up to 12 months and give a few hours a week to support men to change their life by being inspirational role models, helping with goal setting and supporting their mentee to access ETE opportunities and ultimately gain meaningful employment. Mentoring sessions will be 1:1, take place weekly and can be done remotely by telephone or online. These sessions will last approximately one hour, but some time should also be given to liaising with Trailblazers staff and researching relevant opportunities. 

Induction training is provided, out of pocket expenses covered, a mobile phone is provided to protect your identity, a Trailblazers T-shirt and lanyard are provided, DBS costs are covered, as well as regular reflective practice sessions to support you within your role. 

We are actively looking for people to join our mentoring community with lived experience of the criminal justice system, under represented groups from BAME community, creative arts, business skills, wellbeing - whatever your skills and background we are open to hear from you to support our diverse group of men. 

Trailblazers are looking for Volunteer Mentors who are:

• Empathetic with a positive outlook and manner.
• Able to help others without judgement or discrimination.
• Excellent communicators with a sense of humour.
• Well organised, can prioritise and multi-task.
• Reliable and able to commit to the role for up to 12 months providing weekly ETE sessions remotely either by telephone or via Zoom / MS Team digital platforms.
• Have skills and experience in supporting those who are disadvantaged into education, training and employment (ETE).
• Able to work independently with the ability to prioritise and manage your own workload with minimal supervision taking a flexible and creative approach to the demands of the post.
• Able to demonstrate sensitivity to other cultures, working with people from other backgrounds and demonstrate a commitment to equal opportunities.