Advocacy Volunteer Roles

At POhWER, we help people who are most vulnerable due to disability, illness, social exclusion, abuse, discrimination, and numerous other challenges, to express their views, uphold their rights or to get the support they need.

Our mission is to empower people to have a voice and make a real difference to their lives. We do this by speaking for them when they cannot and supporting them to speak for themselves when they can.

What will you be doing?

We are seeking to appoint two new Trustees to join the Board at this exciting phase. You will be part of a committed and forward-thinking Board, acting as a “critical friend” to the Executive Team and offering clear governance oversight to the charity. You will have the exciting opportunity to help support the planning and implementation of our Strategy from 2025 onwards, and to help develop and shape our long-term business plans.

POhWER is particularly interested in candidates who can offer expertise in one of the following areas:

• Involvement in the social care/advocacy sector and with experience of the local authority and commissioning environment;
• Experience of HR, typically at executive or board level.

Time commitment: Approximately one day per month and no requirement to attend offices. Board and Committee meetings are generally held on a Thursday early morning.

What are we looking for?

POhWER is seeking particular knowledge, expertise and experience in the following areas:

1. Involvement in the social care or advocacy sector and with experience of local authorities and commissioning environment;
2. Experience of HR, typically at executive or board level.

You will bring an inspiring leadership approach, together with a dedicated knowledge in one of the areas as sought, to complement the skills of the existing Board.  

You will uphold high standards of integrity and probity, both personally and in ensuring POhWER aspires to the highest standards in all its dealings, internally and externally; 

You will be able to give enough time and thought to the role of trustee, eg preparing for, attending and actively participating in all meetings of the Trustees;

You will ensure that POhWER uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives.

What difference will you make?

This is a particularly exciting phase as we are developing our Strategy beyond 2025.  This will take into account the continued economic uncertainty, but ensuring that we continue to achieve positive outcomes for the people who seek our services.

You will add value to our existing Board by bringing dynamism and challenge to the way that POhWER is seen externally. 

You will bring an inspiring leadership approach, together with a dedicated knowledge in one of the areas as sought, to complement the skills of the existing Board.  

We encourage candidates who can contribute greater diversity and who are fully aligned to our vision and values.

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance with CV and covering letter indicating you interest in POhWER.

Chair of the Ministries Committee and Deputy Chair of the Ministries Committee (two roles) – The Methodist Church in Great Britain

From 1 September 2025

Are you a member of the Methodist Church in Britain seeking to build on your established committee chairing skills, your expertise and gifts in a new way? Could you make a significant contribution to an important committee in the Methodist Church?

We are seeking a new Chair and Deputy Chair for the Ministries Committee to start 1 September 2025, initially for a term of three years, renewable for a further 3 years if appropriate.

The Ministries Committee reports to the Connexional Council, the trustee body of the Methodist Church in Great Britain. The Committee is charged with responsibility to keep in constant review the life of the Methodist Church as it relates to Ministries, ordained and lay, to reflect strategically and review ministries related work that will enable the ministry and mission of the Church to be more effective, and to review the formational and support needs of those who exercise lay and ordained ministry on behalf of the Church.  Working collaboratively with other committee members and with the Mission Committee and Resourcing Committee, you will be experienced in chairing committees and bring a range of circuit experiences and other experiences of the Methodist Church to the work of the Ministries Committee.

Applications are invited from both lay and ordained members of the Methodist Church in Britain. Please indicate whether you are applying for the Chair or Deputy Chair role. You are encouraged to apply if you feel that overall your skills and experience meet the person specification requirements. You will have some experience or interest in cross-cultural ministry, stationing, candidating or training.

We aim to build a team that reflects a broad range of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives. In line with our commitment to the Justice, Dignity, and Solidarity (JDS) Strategy, we particularly welcome expressions of interest from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic individuals, as well as lay members, women, and those still developing their careers. We are committed to fairness, and all applications will be assessed on merit.

If you would like to speak to someone about these roles then please contact us. Details are available via our website. 

Closing Date: Monday 24 February 2024

Interviews: on Thursday 6 March 2025 (and possibly Friday 7 March 2025) in person, at Methodist Church House, 25 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SF

About TLC 

The Trans Legal Clinic is the first trans-led specialist gender identity legal practice and registered charity in the UK. The mission of the Trans Legal Clinic is simple; we provide free and accessible legal help to transgender and non-binary people in need. Our overarching vision is a society where all people have access to the legal resources required for gender self-determination and where gender diversity is not just accepted but embraced, with trans* people equipped with the necessary legal tools to navigate the world in their affirmed gender. 

Service Introduction 

The Social Media department is integral to our organisation. The social media team works together to create informative and entertaining content to build a community around the Trans Legal Clinic. We have assisted over 70 clients since October 2023.

Our Social Media department is made up of committed Social Media Content Officers, working under the Social Media Manager. 

Key tasks and responsibilities 

Design and Content Creation 

Be adept and comfortable using Canva, with an eye for design. 

Create engaging and eye-catching posts and content for Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn. 

Write engaging captions and copy for social media content to drive engagement across social media channels.  

Confident using video editing software and a willingness to learn new editing software as and when required. 

Write and edit scripts for video posts. 

Teamwork 

Engage with assigned tasks and support other volunteers in the social media team.

Keep your fellow volunteers and manager updated on your content creation and any issues you encounter throughout the process.   

Set out to reach team performance targets.

Attend team meetings and contribute to discussions.

Be respectful to colleagues and support good communication between all stakeholders. 

Work with caseworkers to create content for specific raised issues. 

Research and Outreach 

Create resources for the organisation and those seeking information on our website in a digestible way. 

Reach out to other organisations, especially those that work with trans* people, to collaborate and share knowledge and resources.   

Conduct research into relevant topics and how they affect trans* and gender diverse people. 

Review 

Review and evaluate own performance to identify strengths and areas for development. 

Undertake development and training opportunities. 

General 

Adhere to Trans Legal Clinic’s Policies and Procedures at all times. 

Cover for other members of the team and department as necessary. 

Be proactive in reviewing and evaluating own performance and identifying upon areas for improvement and development. 

Undertake any other duties compatible with the level and nature of the role and/or reasonable duties required by more senior members of staff. 

Attend and participate in external meetings and briefings as required. 

Role: Leadership and Management Volunteers

Location: London

Commitment: Flexible hours, Evening and Weekend based

Urban Youth is a brand new youth work organisation being set up and is committed to empowering young people through engaging and meaningful youth work projects. We believe in creating opportunities for personal growth, community involvement, and positive change.

We need volunteers with experience in Leadership or Management who can come on board and support our brand new start-up, helping us to set up and put in place systems, processes and policies and to also ensure we have a solid foundation.

Responsibilities:

• To provide leadership skills and support the set-up of Urban Youth.

• Lead or Manage a particular project or area that will support us at Urban Youth reach our full potential and make maximum impact.

• Set up your function, ensuring we have everything in place to get launched and ready to work with young people.

• Support the recruitment and onboarding process of new volunteers coming into Urban Youth, especially those under your leadership.

• Develop and implement project/programme strategies.

• Provide leadership and ongoing support and motivation to volunteers.

• Collaborate with other staff and volunteers to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Maintain accurate records and reports.

• Support us in our fundraising efforts, in promoting Urban Youth and getting hands on in other areas as and when needed, working as a team for a common goal.

Requirements:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Experience in Leadership or Management.

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

• Excellent organisational and time management skills.

• Passion for working with young people and volunteers and then supporting their development.

• Commitment to Urban Youth's mission and values.

If you're ready to inspire and coordinate our amazing team of volunteers, please send your CV and a brief cover letter to us. We look forward to hearing from you!

Overview of the role

We’re looking for three people to join our team, who care deeply about making Scouts inclusive and welcoming to young people and adults from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. There will be an opportunity in this role to significantly shape and deliver race equity work at Scouts, working in close partnership with senior volunteers and staff, particularly in the recently expanded EDI team, to sharpen and hone our expertise in this area. 

We are recruiting a race equity sub-team to support us in delivering the changes needed to embed race equity right across our movement. The sub-team will:

• Contribute to ensuring that knowledge and understanding of the issues that impact Black, Asian and minority ethnic or underrepresented groups’ experiences, are continually informing the delivery of projects. This can be derived from, but not limited to, experiential, lived or professional expertise.
• Use expertise to shape project direction, make decisions at the project level, track progress and solve project-level problems.
• Work alongside the UK Lead Volunteer for Growth & Race Equity to support staff in delivering the changes needed to embed race equity right across our movement. 
• Actively support the delivery of race focused projects, and significantly contribute to Scouts continuing to be become more racially inclusive.
• Work in close partnership with the EDI team to deliver race focused projects.

You’ll be part of a friendly team of volunteers and staff members who will support you in your role. 

It's an exciting time to join The Access Foundation, with opportunities to develop your skills & help shape our future. If you're committed, enthusiastic & known to make a difference, please apply. We welcome individuals who have no trustee experience. 

What is the Access Foundation all about?

The Access Foundation was set up in 2021, following the success and growth of The Access Group. While The Access Foundation is affiliated with the Access Group in terms of its identity, the Foundation is a separate organisation, governed by an independent board of trustees and with its own objectives. 

The Access Foundation is focused on awarding grants to charities which make a valuable and measurable positive impact.  The grant giving objectives of the Foundation fall into three categories: 

1. to bridge the digital divide by making computing facilities, support and learning available to disadvantaged and vulnerable people

1. to advance the charitable causes of the registered charities chosen as the "Access Group Company Charities of the Year"

1. to help charities nominated by employees of the Access group with which they have strong emotional connections with.  

The Foundation funds charitable projects and activities which make a real difference to people’s lives in all the countries where the Access Group operates, and we aim to award grants to a total value of at least £10 million over the next 5 years.

This is an exciting time to join The Foundation, with opportunities to develop your skills and help shape our future. If you are committed, enthusiastic and known to make a difference, please apply. We welcome applications from individuals who have no experience of being a trustee. We will provide support.  

The Role of Trustee at The Access Foundation 

The trustees of the Access Foundation are responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity, known collectively as the Board of Trustees.  The Board is responsible for the direction of The Foundation and ensures it is solvent, well run and delivers on our charitable objectives.  

As a trustee to the Foundation, you’ll attend: 

• Two regular online weekly meetings to review grant applications and to ensure the operational management of the Foundation, totalling about 2.5 hours 

• An all-day team meeting in person (every 2 months, usually in London) to progress the above, as well as progressing strategy 

• Completing actions as agreed in the meetings above. 

The total time commitment is expected to be at least 6 hours per week. 

Desirable Qualities 

As a trustee, you will show: 

• Your commitment to the organisation and willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. 

• You’re an advocate of equal opportunity, and you actively promote diversity. 

• Good and independent judgement and you’re willing to speak your mind.

• Strategic vision and your ability to think creatively and challenge current thinking and operating, in a constructive manner. 

• You work effectively as a member of a team. 

• Your ability to evaluate and interpret management information and other data. 

• You’re well versed in Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel and the Office365 environment 

• You can deliver “hands on” services to the organisation

Skills and Experience Required 

As a trustee, you can demonstrate specific knowledge and experience in one or more of these areas: 

• Charity law, compliance and governance, 

• Grant management, particularly within an international context as well as the UK, 

• Leadership or management of a medium to large organisation, ideally with multiple and/or diverse sites or subsidiaries, 

• Financial management, specifically investment and treasury functions, 

• Data analysis and/or research. 

• Change management, 

• Monitoring and evaluating performance in the commercial and/or not for profit sector, 

• Recruitment and human resources expertise, including employment legislation, 

• Business development, 

• Risk management, 

• Marketing, media and PR, 

• Business or intellectual property law. 

Duties and responsibilities 

The Trustees of the Access Foundation: 

• Ensure the Foundation achieves its charitable objects as defined in the Articles of Association, by establishing a clear vision, a set of values and strategy, and ensuring that there is a common understanding of these by trustees, staff and associated personnel. 

• Ensure that operational plans and budgets support the vision and strategy of the Foundation and uses its resources exclusively to pursue our charitable objectives. 

• Ensure that the views of stakeholders are regularly sought and considered and there is regular review of the external environment for changes that might affect the organisation (political, financial, demographic, competitive, partnerships, alliances). 

• Ensure that the organisation complies with the Articles of Association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations. 

• Ensure the financial stability of the organisation, protect and manage the assets of the organisation (financial or otherwise) and ensure the proper investment of its funds. 

• Ensure the Foundation acts in accordance with employment law and exercises a duty of care to its employees. 

• Ensure a well thought through risk management process is in place and give serious consideration to procuring external professional advice on any matter that presents a material risk to the charity that is beyond the established risk management process, or where the trustees could be perceived to be in breach of their duties. 

• Ensure that the organisation has a fit for purpose governance structure that is appropriate to a charity of its size/complexity, stage of development, and its charitable objects, and reflects the diversity of its stakeholders. 

• Ensure that the board regularly reviews its own training needs and creates an expectation of continuous professional development throughout the organisation. 

• Ensure that trustees have an agreed code of conduct and comply with it, and that there are mechanisms for the removal of trustees who do not abide by the principles stated therein 

The applications close on the 15th February and the interview process will start w/c 17th February. We are looking for 2 trustees and look to appoint mid-March.

Are you looking for an opportunity to use your strategic mindset to drive change and create lasting impact?

Do you want to play a key role in shaping the future of an organisation dedicated to helping those in financial crisis?

Are you passionate about contributing to a greater good and supporting people to overcome the barriers of debt, creating a society free from financial hardship? 

We are a dynamic charity undergoing an exciting transformation as we prepare to launch our new five-year strategy. As we expand our reach and impact, we are looking for up to three trustees to join our Board and help us navigate this period of change.

This is a unique opportunity to influence our mission and strategy, and ensure we continue to support people in need whilst driving positive social change. 

Your Role

As a trustee, you will be at the heart of our organisation, working alongside a passionate team of colleagues and fellow trustees to steer StepChange towards a future where financial hardship no longer holds people back. Your leadership and strategic insights will help us grow, adapt, and respond to the ever-evolving financial challenges facing our society. 

You will help define and monitor the charity’s strategic direction, ensuring our efforts are aligned with our mission and vision. You will work closely with the executive team to make key decisions, advocate for change, and raise awareness of the critical issues surrounding problem debt. 

About You

To join our Board, you don’t need to have been a trustee before, but you will need to have a wholehearted commitment to the vision and values of the charity, together with an understanding of, and empathy for, the experiences of people struggling with the everyday problem of debt.  

We welcome applicants with a range of skills and experiences, we are particularly keen to hear from people with skills in the following areas:

- Public affairs

- Social media marketing

- Fintech

- Information technology and digital

- Accountancy

- Risk  

We believe that diverse views are crucial to shaping our work, helping us to make a bigger social impact, and are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, where you can be your authentic self and offer unique perspectives to aid our cause. We would particularly welcome applications from people under 45 years of age and those from ethnic minority groups as both of these groups are currently underrepresented on our Board. However, applications from people from all backgrounds are welcomed and will be considered on an equal basis. 

Ministries Committee Lay Members - The Methodist Church in Great Britain

Are you a member of the Methodist Church in Britain seeking to use your skills, expertise and gifts in a new way? Could you make a significant contribution to an important committee in the Methodist Church?

We are seeking two new lay members of the Ministries Committee to start as soon as possible, initially for a term of three years, renewable for a further 3 years if desired.

The Ministries Committee reports to the Connexional Council, the trustee body of the Methodist Church in Great Britain. The Committee is charged with responsibility to keep in constant review the life of the Methodist Church as it relates to Ministries, ordained and lay, to reflect strategically and review ministries related work that will enable the ministry and mission of the Church to be more effective, and to review the formational and support needs of those who exercise lay and ordained ministry on behalf of the Church.  Working collaboratively with other committee members and with the Mission Committee and Resourcing Committee, you will be experienced in chairing committees and bring a range of circuit experiences and other experiences of the Methodist Church to the work of the Ministries Committee.

In order to ensure a diverse mix of lay and ordained members of the committee, applications are particularly invited from lay members of the Methodist Church in Britain including Local Preachers and Worship Leaders. You are encouraged to apply if you feel that overall your skills and experience meet the person specification requirements. You will have some experience of serving on a church body and some experience or interest in cross-cultural ministry, stationing, candidating or training.

We aim to build a team that reflects a broad range of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives. In line with our commitment to the Justice, Dignity, and Solidarity (JDS) Strategy, we particularly welcome expressions of interest from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic individuals, as well as lay members, women, and those still developing their careers. We are committed to fairness, and all applications will be assessed on merit.

If you would like to speak to someone about this role then please see the contact details on our website. 

Closing Date: Monday 17 February 2025

Interviews will be held on: Friday 28 February 2025 in person, at Methodist Church House, 25 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SF

* Please note this role is home based with occasional travel in the UK

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten.

More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers. Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support.

We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

· Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (via Microsoft Teams) at a mutually convenient time.

· Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances.

· Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support.

· Working closely with the regional office and branch chair.

· Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress.

The skills you need

· Friendly and approachable

· Great written and verbal communication skills

· Non-judgemental

· Reliable

· Basic IT skills, utilising Teams and O365 packages

· Great online research skills

· Ability to problem solve

What's in it for you

· Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others

· Multiple points of contact for support

· Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team

· Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

· Access a range of training and learning opportunities

What you need to know

· This role will be supporting casework across our Overseas branches, there will be no travel outside of the UK needed

· This role will be conducted remotely with support from the SSAFA Overseas Regional Office and the SSAFA Thailand branch chair

· You will need access to wifi and a PC/Laptop to be able to connect to Microsoft Teams (provided by SSAFA).

You may occasionally travel in the UK to meet with the SSAFA Regional Office Team – Travel expenses are provided.

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

Do you want to co-ordinate vegan volunteering?

As an Organiser, you would be the caretaker of your local area. This is the more time-intensive role but so rewarding! Tasks would be emailed to you directly every month by our Volunteering Coordinator, who would be your main point of contact here at The Vegan Society. It would then be your job to send out the task to Advocates in your local area and get feedback from them. You'll also be able to ask your Advocates for help with any stalls and lobbying. Every Organiser receives an outreach pack, including a table runner, leaflets and banners. We make sure you are fully supported with an Organisers' WhatsApp group for socialising and ideas. We also have a monthly gathering on video.

What does the Organiser role involve? 

Every month, you will be sent a collection of tasks to choose from. We create these from our programme of campaigns. You would be the point of contact for Advocates in your area, sharing these tasks and coordinating activities, such as stalls and lobbying councillors. We will provide you with a campaign toolkit and be in regular contact with you to ensure you have everything you need. You will also be invited to our private Facebook group and WhatsApp chat.

We would expect you to provide any updates from your group and give feedback on each task. It's vital that we measure the impact that we are having, in terms of positive conversations and leaflets handed out. You can also give us ideas you have for future outreach tasks or campaigning. Many Organisers find a huge sense of satisfaction, improvement in self-esteem and enjoy the social side of volunteering in this role.

You will also be responsible for welcoming new Advocates in your area. We will let you know when somebody new applies, and you will help them to get involved with any activities. As the main contact for Advocates, this role does require some awareness of safeguarding and data protection procedures and policy. There will be full training on your role in this, as well as a handbook and ongoing guidance and support. 

What training and support is available? 

There will be a full induction to the role, with a gradual introduction of new tasks and responsibilities. To start with, we will provide an initial training session to cover the basics of community organising, communication skills and event planning. This will be done remotely from wherever you are. Along with this, we will provide a full pack of resources that covers a range of work that we do. 

From there, there will be regular conversations and reviews, where we can discuss other training requirements. Staff are always available to Organisers for any questions, via phone or email. 

What skills would be useful in doing this role? 

• Great organisational skills
• Experience of coordinating people
• Experience of working to specific dates and deadlines
• Good time keeping
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to motivate people around the topic of veganism
• Ability to stick to branding
• Ability to read emails in a timely manner and translate tasks into actions quickly
• Ability to report back on activities
• Excellent knowledge of vegan issues

How much time do I need to invest?

You should be able to commit around two days a month to carry out actions, and this is usually spread out across the month. We also expect timely responses to emails. When a new Advocate applies to work with you, we would like them to be contacted within seven days via email.

Do you want to take part in vegan volunteering around your local area?

You can do that – right here at The Vegan Society. 

We have an ever-growing Community Network of vegans just like you, who have a passion to volunteer and promote veganism where they live. 

Every month, our Network choose from a range of outreach tasks. These could include town centre stalls, writing to a councillor or MP, sharing our campaigns on social media or contacting local businesses. You're in control of how much or how little you do. 

As an Advocate, you will have a network of other Advocates and an Organiser in your area. Your Organiser will be your main point of contact. They will send you tasks every month and ask you to feed back on what you've completed and any positive outcomes. 

Why do we need you to volunteer?

As the vegan community grows, veganism itself becomes better understood. We're finding that more people are looking to The Vegan Society to find out what being vegan is all about.

Local communities are starting to see the vegan movement as something real and something that’s happening in their area. More people are embracing a vegan lifestyle, which we welcome. From new businesses, to families, to councillors, many people need support. This could be with a range of topics: going vegan, finding correct information around a vegan diet, providing vegan options in their business, MPs listening to vegan constituents, and learning about our work.

Local issues are often unique and more varied than national issues. Our volunteers from local areas are vital! They enable us to share our messages and campaigns in an effective way. Research tells us that people are far more likely to trust information from a peer rather than an outside expert, so community volunteering vastly increases the impact of our campaigns.

Our network of committed local vegans across the country is growing! The Vegan Society organises various outreach activities to influence change in every level of society. There are a range of activities going on all the time, from general educational stalls at events to meeting with local policy influencers.

Advocates are a crucial voice in their own community. They ensure that our campaign messages are spread far and wide. They provide a strong vegan presence in local communities.

What does the Advocate role involve?

Being an Advocate for veganism with The Vegan Society will mean communicating with people in your local community. You'll share the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. You will form part of a local group, headed up by a local Organiser. The Organiser will feed back your collective efforts to staff. You will also be invited to our private Facebook group, for vegan socialising and ideas sharing.

You’ll stay in touch with the Organiser and bring your passion to tasks. Activities can range from staffing a stall to giving a talk at an employee event. It could also mean writing to a local newspaper or lobbying an MP.

Messaging can differ every month. Part of our mission statement is to ensure people can remain vegan, so you might focus on getting more vegan options available in local businesses. Or within our Live Vegan for Less campaign, you may share cheap vegan recipes to help people with the cost of living.

When acting as an Advocate, you will use The Vegan Society’s branding and messaging guidelines. Your local Organiser will guide you in doing this, as they hold physical resources and handbooks. You can report any issues and feedback you have to your Organiser. You can also contact staff if your Organiser isn't available or you have any problems.

What training and support is available?

You will be provided with a big welcome and full induction from your local Organiser. They will introduce you to the group and any actions that are ongoing. Any training and development will be provided via your Organiser, and you can also ask for specific training on any areas that you need some development in.

What skills would be useful in doing this role?

• The ability to stay motivated in order to achieve the best possible outcomes
• Good email etiquette, responding in a timely manner
• Committed to veganism and the mission of The Vegan Society
• Ability to stay calm if confronted with differing opinions or challenges
• A good communicator, with the ability to be persuasive
• Confident in communicating with people from a range of backgrounds
• Experience of campaigning
• Any experience in talking with members of the public through customer/public service would be helpful
• Awareness of current affairs, especially those that relate to veganism
• Regular availability and a willingness to stay committed to actions
• Good team player

How much time do I need to invest? 

For Advocates, we ask for people to engage in a minimum of four to six actions per year. An example of an action could be writing to an MP or holding a stall. But the more you can do, the better! On occasion, there may also be online meetings to plan for actions or provide training.

CISWO, The Coal Mining Charity, is seeking additional trustees to strengthen and widen the scope, expertise and diversity of our Board. We would particularly welcome applications from individuals who are a qualified accountant and a member of a recognised institute.

Since 1995, we have been improving lives and reducing disadvantage in former coal mining communities. With services provided across the country in all former coalfield areas, our reach is extensive.

CISWO is a service provider, grant maker, and custodian of one of the largest portfolios of recreational land in the UK. Our aim is to reduce disadvantage in communities impacted by the coal mining industry and to leave a legacy of community facilities for future generations.

We are proud of the impact we make with former miners and mining communities. With over 2,400 individuals, and over 200 other mining charities supported in 2023, we can demonstrate the difference we make. We are however ambitious to achieve more and recognise that as our client groups change, we need to increase and adapt our delivery to meet these needs.

This is an exciting time to join the organisation. We at the start of our third year of our current 5 year strategy which will build on the past work of CISWO, drive the current work of the charity and set strong foundations for the future to ensure we meet the changing needs of our different client groups.

Trustee Responsibilities

As a Trustee of CISWO you will:

· Be responsible for providing governance to administration and management of the organisation.

· Ensure the financial stability and viability of CISWO.

· Actively contribute to the Board by giving strategic direction including defining and setting overall policy, and evaluating performance against this.

· Ensure compliance with the charity’s governing document, and any legal requirements.

· Act in the best interests of the charity at all times.

· Safeguard the reputation and values of the organisation.

· Use specific skills and knowledge of topics relevant to their areas of expertise to lead discussions, provide advice and guidance, identify key issues, and help the Board to reach sound decisions.

Essential Skills and Knowledge

· Relevant knowledge to contribute to the charity’s core areas of delivery.

· Credibility and evidence of effectiveness in their chosen field.

· Operating a senior level in either a paid or unpaid capacity in a significantly sized and / or complex organisation.

· Experience of strategic thinking and planning with a good understanding of risk.

· A well–rounded understanding of the charity sector and the responsibilities of trustees.

· Analytical and evaluation skills, demonstrating good judgement.

· Highly numerate with the ability to understand budgets and charity finance.

· Team orientated with a collaborative and solution focused approach

· A critical understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and a commitment to applying these to the role.

· The ability to commit the necessary time and engagement to be an effective member of the Board.

Desirable Skills and Knowledge

· Understanding of the issues faced by former coal miners and mining communities.

· Recent experience working as a qualified accountant in a professional capacity.

· Previous experience as a charity trustee or working with a board of trustees.

How to apply

To be considered for the role, please supply the following:

· An up to date CV clearly detailing your career history with key achievements

· A supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role and the value that your expertise will add to the Trustee Board

Full candidate information pack attached.

Join Urban Youth: Be a Founding Volunteer!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people in London? Urban Youth is a new youth work organisation in London currently being set up and is looking for dedicated volunteers to help us set up, found, and develop our exciting new initiative.

What We're Looking For:

• Enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about youth work or their field of expertise that will benefit our new organisation especially in our set up and founding stage.

• Volunteers with skills in organisation, planning, and development.

• Creative minds to help shape our brand and identity.

• Team players who are ready to roll up their sleeves and get involved.

What You'll Gain:

• The opportunity to be a founding member of an impactful youth work organisation.

• Hands-on experience in setting up and developing a youth work initiative.

• The chance to make a real difference in the lives of young people in London.

• A supportive and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued.

How to Get Involved:

If you're ready to make a difference and be part of something special, we'd love to hear from you! Please contact us with your CV to express your interest and learn more about how you can get involved.

Urban Youth: Discover Your Path, Shape Your Future

Let's build something amazing together!

Community researchers wanted to help East London Waterworks Park ensure our community-owned park is inclusive and welcoming for all.

East London Waterworks Park is a volunteer-led charity that has won a 2024 New London Architecture award and raised £2m towards buying land from the Department for Education to transform the 14-acre Thames Water Depot on Lea Bridge Road on the border of Waltham Forest and Hackney, into a new biodiverse park with natural swimming ponds, forest schools and community spaces. 

We are looking for community researchers specialised to contribute to our community-led working circle who are working on on a listening project to ensure often underrepresented voices in conservation and environmental projects are heard and centred. 

There is opportunity to lead on projects and facilitate the direction of the working circle.

The Inclusivity Circle currently meets monthly on a Wednesday evening on Google Meet and spends voluntary time outside of the meeting completing agreed tasks remotely.

While your experienced research skills are crucial, we also value your ability to engage with the community and build partnerships. Experience in conducting community-based research or working with community organisations is important. A strong understanding of community dynamics and the ability to collaborate effectively will be invaluable in ensuring your research findings are relevant and impactful. Our roles are quite flexible. We hope that people bring radical imagination, peace with nature, and courageous inclusiveness to the role. 

Contribute to the creation of a new biodiverse community-owned park with free access natural swimming ponds. Your research expertise will be vital in shaping our new biodiverse park. By conducting listening research on community needs, and potential park uses, you'll help us create a sustainable and inclusive space. Your findings will inform our design, programming, and outreach efforts, ensuring the park meets the needs of our community and contributes to biodiversity conservation.