Volunteer Roles

Support U is a leading LGBTQ+ help and support service based in Reading, servicing the Thames Valley area.

We are looking to revitalise our Trustee Board and require a new Chair of Trustees. This is an exciting opportunity to help take the charity forward and have a real impact on those we support.

What will you be doing?

1. General statutory responsibilities as a Trustee (please request candidate pack for further details).
2. Specific responsibilities as Chair of Trustees: 

• Provide leadership and ensure focus on delivering the organization’s charitable purposes for greater public benefit.
•  Chair and facilitate board meetings.
• Direct board policy-making.
• Ensure implementation of meeting decisions.
• Represent the organization at functions and meetings, acting as spokesperson when appropriate.
• Bring impartiality and objectivity to decision-making.
• Plan the annual cycle of board and general meetings, such as the AGM.
• Set agendas for board and general meetings.
• Develop the board of Trustees through induction, training, appraisal, and succession planning.
• Address conflicts within the board and organization, liaising with the Chief Executive if staff are employed.
• This role is mainly office-based

Time Commitment

We have recently navigated a transitional period, which included our longstanding CEO stepping down and changes to the services we provide.

It would therefore be helpful to have someone who has slightly more time available than is typical during this interim period, as we are really looking for someone to lead the Board in deciding what direction Support U decides to move in. 

We are currently having monthly Board meetings (which are usually held online) which the Chair is expected to attend.

What are we looking for?

• Leadership skills.
•  Experience of committee work.
• Tact and diplomacy.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.

In most circumstances, it would also be desirable for the Chair/Vice-Chair to have knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation and a wider involvement with the voluntary sector and other networks.

What difference will you make?

As the potential Chair of Support U, you will have the opportunity to significantly enhance our ability to support LGBTQ+ individuals in Reading and Thames Valley. Your leadership will provide strategic vision, strengthen our existing services, and expand our outreach efforts. By focusing on inclusivity and accessibility, building strong partnerships, and advocating for greater awareness and inclusion of LGBTQ+ issues, you will ensure that Support U remains dedicated to its mission and is well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of our community. Your experience and dedication will be invaluable in driving our organisation forward and making a lasting impact.

Job description

the3million is currently seeking a new finance director to strengthen its dynamic board dynamic board and support the work of this passionate organisation at the forefront of migrants’ rights in the UK. 

Eight years after the Brexit referendum, we are navigating ongoing challenges affecting EU citizens’ communities. We are continuing to build power from the ground up, empowering people to get their voices heard. Your contribution will be crucial to making change happen.

This position is voluntary and thus unpaid.

About the3million

We are the leading organisation representing EU citizens in the UK. Our vision is a world where EU citizens can thrive, reach their potential and have an equal voice in UK society. Our work ranges from monitoring the implementation of the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement, advocating for the integration of EU citizens throughout all sections of society , informing people of their rights, and giving EU citizens a voice in British society to change the narrative on migration as a whole. 

We are a grassroots and non-partisan organisation, working with a variety of stakeholders, from MPs to trade unions, NGOs and the media on specific issues affecting our citizens’ rights. We were formed through the efforts of volunteers of many different backgrounds who came together in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit referendum in 2016. We hold on to that can-do, nimble spirit and informal, friendly and non-hierarchical collegiality.

the3million was incorporated as a limited not for profit company by guarantee (No. 11083851) with Companies House in November 2017. 

What does the role involve?

You will join a small board of professionals committed to helping EU citizens in the UK. All directors work closely with our very dedicated staff team.

We are specifically looking for a finance director with experience in UK charity and not-for-profit accounting, financial strategy and governance. 

As a non-executive director at the3million, you’ll play a vital role in keeping the organisation on track with its objectives. You will apply your professional experience towards shaping our strategy on fundraising, governance, campaigning and other areas of work.

You will be expected to attend our board meetings, every two months, on Zoom, which usually last for two hours. You will also be expected to have some ad-hoc meetings with the Finance Manager and CEO between meetings as required.

More information can be found on our website.

Before you apply

One of the3million’s core values is inclusion - we are people led, we value diversity and are enriched by differences. We strive to listen to, engage with and represent the broadest range of people. 

We recognise our team is not currently representative of communities that experience racism and that our own ways of working may replicate wider societal oppression and injustices. We are actively working towards becoming an anti-oppressive organisation, including taking steps to create a more inclusive recruitment process.

You may not have worked in the migration sector before, or in an organisation whose focus is campaigning for migrants’ rights. Or you may have experience in grassroots organising in a setting which is not formalised. Please still consider applying as many other sectors and settings offer transferable skills.

If you are from a background that is underrepresented in the migration sector - for example you are from a community that experiences racism, or you have lived experience of migration, or you are a disabled person, or you did not go to University or had free school meals as a child - we strongly encourage you to apply.

We believe our work will be stronger with greater diversity. the3million welcomes the whole person to work, and we understand that each of us brings our experiences, our backgrounds and our own unique lens to what we do.

The main purpose of the role:

As directors at the3million, we are volunteers with a specific responsibility to:

• Ensure the aims and objectives of the3million are being met from an accounting, financial and compliance perspective;

• Act in the best interest of the organisation;

• Manage responsibility for what we have (our people, our money etc);

• Act with reasonable care and skill.

What you will gain:

• An insight into how the organisation runs,

• A sense of pride when hearing about the difference our campaigning and organising efforts make and that you have had a role in preserving the rights of EU citizens in the UK,

• Confidence in building relationships with a wide range of people, and the opportunity to learn from the varied experiences that other Board members bring to the table.

• An opportunity to use your skills, knowledge and experience to the benefit of the organisation.

• Being a director is a voluntary role and is not paid, but expenses including for travel are reimbursed.

Director Person Specification

Key skills

Knowledge of and ability to carry out the core responsibilities of being a director

Able to think about the ‘bigger picture’ and longer term as well as think about the ‘here and now’ (being strategic versus being operational)

Act as an ambassador for the3million, promoting our work to friends and colleagues

Able to comment, challenge or question in a way that is helpful, supportive and constructive

Be timely and clear in your communication on and around meetings or projects

Qualification and experience

You will have:

• A strong financial background and experience, having managed the accounts of an organisation (required)

• Experience of operating within a not-for-profit organisation with a range of revenue streams would be beneficial (desirable)

• Experience of volunteering/working in the voluntary sector (desirable)

• Membership of one of the CCAB accounting bodies (ICAEW, ACCA, CIPFA, ICAS or Chartered Accountants Ireland) (desirable)

• Experience of working in senior teams, preferably at board level (desirable)

• Experience working in the field of immigration would be an advantage (desirable)

• The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences (required)

• Ability to present financial information in an accessible manner to the directors (required)

• Ability to advise directors  on their financial responsibilities (required)

• Interpersonal skills to work supportively with staff, if/when required

Personal attributes

• Integrity and honesty

• Proactive

• A demonstrable commitment to the3million's aims and values

• Team player, flexible and adaptable

Time commitment 

• A two hour evening board meeting every two months (online)

• One away-day per year (in-person);

• Follow up to meetings – reading and commenting on minutes, carrying out any agreed actions.

Restrictions

• Over 18

• Must be currently based in the UK

• Not bankrupt

• Subject to satisfactory DBS check and references

• Not excluded by Companies House or Charity Commission

• Conflicts of interest that would be so significant as to undermine the role in general, such as being a member of a group that discriminated against people based on gender ethnicity or nationality.

Next steps

Applications are welcome from everyone with the relevant passion and experience in accounting and finance, including people who have not yet been on a Board or served as a charity Trustee before. If you would like to speak to someone on our current Board or a staff member to find out more about us before applying, you are welcome to do so.

Please send your CV along with an accompanying letter explaining your reasons for applying. If you are on LinkedIn, please share with us the URL of your profile.

We would appreciate it if you filled in the equality and diversity monitoring form. We only use this information to understand the demographics of people we are reaching and to guide us in making the3million fairer.

All applications will be reviewed against the role description and person specification by a small team of directors.

If you have been shortlisted, you’ll be invited for a one-hour interview with a director and the Finance Manager. 

Successful applicants will be onboarded by other Board members, ensuring they are welcomed into the organisation and supported.

Application Instructions

Please send your CV along with an accompanying letter explaining your reasons for applying. If you are on LinkedIn, please share with us the URL of your profile.

Please also download and fill in the equality and diversity monitoring form. We only use this information to understand the demographics of people we are reaching and to guide us in making the3million fairer. This process is separate and confidential; this information is not reviewed or taken into account in the recruitment process.

Please email all the above to us at recruitment[at]the3million[dot]org[dot]uk.

St Luke's Hospice have an opportunity for an experienced Trustee with an income generation/finance/business management background to help make a positive contribution to the work we do for patients and families within our local communities. 

What will you be doing?

If you have experience in the private, public or voluntary sectors and the drive to make a difference, we have an opportunity for you to join our Trustee Board to make a positive contribution to the work we do. St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice cares for people in mid & south Cheshire who are suffering from life limiting illnesses. We offer specialist treatment, care, advice and support to patients and their families.

We undertake an annual audit of the skill mix of our Trustees to find the right blend of experience and expertise to support the work of the Hospice through their support for the Senior Management Team. We look for Trustees who have the dedication, commitment and desire to improve our services and help us to achieve our strategic goals in line with our ethos and values.

We would be happy to receive applications from someone, whose responsibility as a Trustee will be to overview all Income Generation at St Luke’s.  This role will include being a Director of the Promotion and Trading companies which look after the hospice lottery and our retail shops. Someone with experience of managing income generation, working collaboratively and with business management and finance (including P&L) knowledge would be desirable for this position.

St Luke’s is committed to equality and diversity and promotes an inclusive environment. We encourage applications from all areas of the community, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Trustee positions are un-remunerated although reasonable out of pocket expenses will be paid. This role offers a person the chance to make a valid contribution to a respected community organisation, is a great opportunity for professional development, exposure at Board level and the chance to support the development of local services.

Appointment to the Trustee Board will be subject to standard checks, including satisfactory references and DBS check

Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend full Trustee Board Meetings, which are held in the early evenings on the last Wednesday of every month either at the Hospice or remotely via Microsoft TEAMs. You will also be expected to be a member of a Board Sub Committee which meets 6 times per year.

What are we looking for?

Each year the Hospice undertakes a skills mix audit to identify the key skills required to support the SMT in the day to day running of the Hospice.

The most recent audit has identified the following skills as essential to support the SMT and create a balanced trustee board able to make knowledgeable and effective decisions:

• Experience in managing income generation.

• Experience in working collaboratively.

• Experience of Business Management.

• Experience of Finance including P&L.

What difference will you make?

This is a vital role within the Hospice and will contribute to ensuring patients and families within the community receive safe, well-led compassionate care. It will also be a key role in ensuring good financial governance alongside supporting our strategic goals, particularly in relation to the generation of income for the Hospice. 

Before you apply

For an informal discussion about the role of a Trustee, please contact us via Reach. Gaynor Clifton, Corporate Assistant will arrange a call with Mike Ridley, Chairman at his earliest available opportunity.

Please submit an Application form and a Covering Letter summarising your interest in joining the Trustee Board at St Luke’s and what qualities you think you have to contribute to the charity’s governance. 

Job description
the3million is currently seeking up to five new non-executive directors to strengthen its dynamic board and support the work of this passionate organisation at the forefront of migrants’ rights in the UK. 

Eight years after the Brexit referendum, we are navigating ongoing challenges affecting EU citizens’ communities. We are continuing to build power from the ground up, empowering people to get their voices heard. Your contribution will be crucial to making change happen.

These positions are voluntary and therefore unpaid.

About the3million

We are the leading organisation representing EU citizens in the UK. Our vision is a world where EU citizens can thrive, reach their potential and have an equal voice in UK society. Our work ranges from monitoring the implementation of the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement, advocating for the integration of EU citizens throughout all sections of society, informing people of their rights, and giving EU citizens a voice in British society to change the narrative on migration as a whole. 

We are a grassroots and non-partisan organisation, working with a variety of stakeholders, from MPs to NGOs, legal advisors and the media on specific issues affecting migrants’ rights. We regularly engage with the Home Office and its monitoring bodies to advocate for change. 

We were formed through the efforts of volunteers from many different backgrounds who came together in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit referendum in 2016. We hold on to that can-do, nimble spirit and informal, friendly and non-hierarchical collegiality.

the3million was incorporated as a limited by guarantee not-for-profit company with Companies House in November 2017. As such, the role of members of the Board of Directors is similar, though not identical, to that of Charity Trustees.

What does the role involve? 

You will join a small board of professionals committed to helping EU citizens in the UK. 

We are specifically seeking directors with expertise in any or more of the following fields: governance, HR, fundraising, ESG, immigration law and strategic litigation; community and campaigns organising (such as from a trade union background). 

As a the3million non-executive director, you’ll play a vital role in keeping the organisation on track with its objectives. You will apply your professional experience towards shaping our strategy on fundraising, governance, campaigning and other areas of work.

Who should apply?

Applications are welcome from everyone with the relevant passion and experience in one or more of the areas listed above. Having worked in the migration sector or in campaigning is not necessarily required. We recognise that many other settings offer transferable skills.

One of the3million’s core values is inclusion - we are people-led, we value diversity and are enriched by differences. We strive to listen to, engage with and represent the broadest range of people. 

We are particularly eager to hear from candidates with lived experience of migration. If you are from a background that is underrepresented in the migration sector we also strongly encourage you to apply. This could include coming from a community that experiences racism, living with a disability, not having been to University or having been in receipt of free school meals as a child.

We recognise our team is not currently representative of communities that experience racism and that our own ways of working may replicate wider societal oppression and injustices. We are actively working towards becoming an anti-oppressive organisation, including taking steps to create a more inclusive recruitment process.

We believe our work will be stronger with greater diversity. the3million welcomes the whole person to work, and we understand that each of us brings our experiences, our backgrounds and our own unique lens to what we do.

Please send your CV along with an accompanying letter explaining your reasons for applying. We highly recommend going through the role specifications below before you start your application.

The main purpose of your role:

As directors at the3million, you will have responsibility to:

• Ensure the3million is meeting its aims and objectives and acting in line with any relevant legislation or regulations

• Act in the best interests of the organisation

• Ensure the3million applies its resources exclusively in line with its strategic aims 

• Ensure the financial viability of the3million 

• Contribute effectively to the Board of Directors in giving clear strategic direction, and evaluating performance against set targets

• Appoint and support the Chief Executive Officer/s and/or Chief Operating Officer/s and monitor their performance

• Act with reasonable care and skill

What you will gain:

• An insight into how the organisation runs;

• Confidence in building relationships with a wide range of people, and the opportunity to learn from the varied experiences that other Board members bring to the table;

• An opportunity to use your skills, knowledge and experience to the benefit of the organisation;

• A sense of pride when hearing about the difference our campaigning and organising efforts make, knowing you have had a role in protecting the rights of EU citizens in the UK.

Being a director is a voluntary role and is not paid, but expenses including for travel are reimbursed.

Director Person Specification

Key skills:

• Knowledge of and ability to carry out the core responsibilities of being a director (please note that onboarding and support is available to new Board members, particularly those who have not served on a Board before)

• Timeliness and clarity in your communication on and around meetings or projects

• Strategic vision: an ability to think about the ‘bigger picture’ and longer term (5 years ahead) as well as the ‘here and now’

• A willingness to act as an ambassador for the3million, promoting our work to friends and colleagues

• An ability to work as a member of a team, to comment, challenge or question in a way that is helpful, supportive and constructive

• A good sense of judgement

Personal attributes

• Integrity and honesty

• Proactiveness

• A demonstrable commitment to the3million's aims and values

• Team player, flexible and adaptable

Time commitment 

• A two hour evening board meeting every two months (online)

• Regular discussion and meeting with fellow directors (online)

• Follow up to meetings – reading and commenting on minutes, carrying out any agreed actions.

• One to two away-days per year (in-person);

Restrictions

• Over 18

• Must be currently based in the UK

• Not bankrupt

• Subject to satisfactory DBS check and references

• Not excluded by Companies House or Charity Commission

• Conflicts of interest that would be so significant as to undermine the role in general, such as being a member of a group that discriminated against people based on gender, ethnicity or nationality.

Next steps

Applications are welcome from everyone with the relevant passion and experience. If you would like to speak to someone on our current Board or a staff member to find out more about us before applying, you are welcome to do so.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a one-hour interview with a director. Interviews may be carried out over the weekend. 

Successful applicants will be onboarded by other Board members, ensuring they are welcomed into the organisation.

Application Instructions

Please send your CV along with an accompanying letter explaining your reasons for applying. If you are on LinkedIn, please share with us the URL of your profile.

Please also download and fill in the equality and diversity monitoring form. We only use this information to understand the demographics of people we are reaching and to guide us in making the3million fairer. This process is separate and confidential; this information is not reviewed or taken into account in the recruitment process.

Please email all the above to us at recruitment[at]the3million[dot]org[dot]uk.

WISER stands for Women in Safe and Empowering Relationships and is a domestic abuse awareness course for women with a learning disability/borderline learning disability in Plymouth.

We are always on the look out for committed, compassionate and dedicated volunteers who wish to get involved in supporting the delivery of our WISER course. We have opportunities available for those who wish to support the delivery of our 6 week course and the women attending, or opportunities for those who would like to support women 1-1 after they have completed the course, as well as administrative roles.

You will be part of a supportive team who come together to help women with a learning disability who are often isolated and struggle to access the support they deserve.

You will also;

• Receive training, supervision & development.
• Gain interpersonal communication skills.
• Gain an insightful experience within a social care setting.
• Make a real difference to someone’s life.
• Gain teamwork skills with an amazing team!
• As well as planning & organization skills, problem solving skills and positive attributes.

We`re looking for a Treasurer to join our 8-strong Board.  Your finance expertise will guide our strategic planning, helping us manage risk, stay prosperous and be effective. 

Arts Gateway MK has been a registered charity since 2008, delivering creative programmes and practical support across several creative genres for the communities of Milton Keynes.Our current turnover is around £100,000.

We`re looking for a Finance Trustee who can:

• Manage and monitor our financial activities, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting;

• Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support decision-making processes;

• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to finance and taxation;

• Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to safeguard our assets;

Your expertise in finance will be crucial in our ambitious and exciting journey, helping a wide range of young creatives and building the cultural infrastructure of the UK`s fastest-growing city.  Some experience in fund-raising would be an additional benefit.

We`re looking for a qualified and experienced accountant who wants to put their skills and expert advice to create cultural benefits for the community.  An interest in creative arts would be a bonus but is not essential.  Want to find out more?

We are looking for people to help us with our antiquarian, rare and interesting book donations. We need volunteers that would enjoy researching, pricing and listing our more unusual and higher value books. This role would suit somebody who likes a challenge! Books could be fiction or non-fiction, classic or contemporary - but they will all require a bit more work to get them live on the Oxfam online shop. During these uncertain times Oxfam’s work to tackle global poverty is more vital (and more challenging) than ever before. Can you put your book expertise to use to help us raise money to support and empower some of the world’s most vulnerable communities?

What you can do at the shop:

· Stock selection to help us match our listings with our customers’ interests

· Researching rare and valuable books

· Photography and editing

· Creating accurate and engaging online listings

What we can offer:

Oxfam's core values are empowerment, inclusiveness and accountability, and we stand by these in all aspects of our work. When you volunteer with us you will have the opportunity to develop your skills (and enhance your CV) and bring your own ideas into the shop. You will be warmly welcomed and you will feel a sense of ownership over the work you do. We will provide full training, giving you the benefit of our experience. We provide references for our volunteers, and we believe nobody should be out of pocket to volunteer with us, so if you live outside the Cotham area we can help with reasonable travel costs.

What our team have to say about working at the shop:

“Oxfam has given me my first relevant volunteering experience – I’ve learnt about a range of different items as well as how an organisation works – and it gives me a chance each week to switch my focus away from uni work!”

“You come across lots of interesting items, but it can be a thrill when you find something rare or out of the ordinary”

“I’ve been here for four years and I love it – very friendly team, very varied – dealing with high end clothing, antiquarian books, household items and much more – it’s great to find new homes for unwanted goods”

What we ask for:

· Enthusiasm for selling books online!

· A willingness to learn and to work within Oxfam's core values

· A commitment of a 3 hour shift per week for at least 3 months

· A commitment to abide by all shop health and safety processes

What your help will enable us to do:

Every pound raised in these incredibly challenging times supports Oxfam’s aim of ending extreme poverty. This income is vital to empower people to help themselves out of poverty, and, crucially, it allows us to act immediately when a disaster happens - saving lives and providing essential resources to help rebuild communities.

Can you help us raise as much as we can to continue our work this year? We won't live with poverty. If you feel the same way we would love to work with you!

Can you help the Bristol Oxfam Online Shop raise money to support and empower some of the world’s most vulnerable communities?

We are looking for people with an eye for detail to help us research, prepare, photograph, describe and dispatch our homewares for sale on Oxfam’s bespoke online shop. Our specialist online shop sells an eclectic range of clothing, accessories, books, music, film and homewares, sourced from our generous donors at Oxfam shops across the area.

We have had some very interesting homewares donations over the years, from antique postal scales to vintage bears and Wedgwood tea sets. If you know your homewares and can help us identify, price, list and photograph our stock your help will be invaluable! You will receive full training and support from our friendly and knowledgeable team.

What you can do at the shop:

We believe in empowering our volunteers so, depending on your interests and what you would like to get out of the role, you can get involved with any of the following aspects of running the online shop (and more!):

· Researching rare and valuable stock

· Selection, preparation and presentation of stock

· Photography and editing

· Creating accurate and engaging online listings

· Creating engaging content for the shop's social media platforms

· Packaging and dispatching items

· Promoting Oxfam’s aims and values

What we can offer:

Oxfam's core values are empowerment, inclusiveness and accountability, and we stand by these in all aspects of our work. We provide a safe, friendly and supportive environment and we have a range of tasks to suit all potential volunteers. When you volunteer with us you will have the opportunity to develop your skills (and enhance your CV) and bring your own ideas into the shop. You will be warmly welcomed and you will feel a sense of ownership over the work you do. We will provide full training, giving you the benefit of our experience. We provide references for our volunteers, and we believe nobody should be out of pocket to volunteer with us, so if you live outside the Cotham area we can help with reasonable travel costs.

What our team have to say about working at the shop:

“Oxfam has given me my first relevant volunteering experience – I’ve learnt about a range of different items as well as how an organisation works – and it gives me a chance each week to switch my focus away from uni work!”

“You come across lots of interesting items, but it can be a thrill when you find something rare or out of the ordinary”

“I’ve been here for four years and I love it – very friendly team, very varied – dealing with high end clothing, antiquarian books, household items and much more – it’s great to find new homes for unwanted goods”

What we ask for:

· Enthusiasm for selling stuff online!

· A willingness to learn and to work within Oxfam's core values

· A commitment of a 3 hour shift per week for at least 3 months

· A commitment to abide by all shop health and safety processes

What your help will enable us to do:

Every pound raised in these incredibly challenging times supports Oxfam’s aim of ending extreme poverty. This income is vital to empower people to help themselves out of poverty, and, crucially, it allows us to act immediately when a disaster happens - saving lives and providing essential resources to help rebuild communities.

Can you help us raise as much as we can to continue our work this year? We won't live with poverty. If you feel the same way we would love to work with you!

Love fashion? Know your brands? Know your retro from your vintage? We are looking for people that love clothes and accessories to help us select, research, prepare, photograph and list our stock for sale on Oxfam’s bespoke online shop. During these uncertain times Oxfam’s work to tackle global poverty is more vital (and more challenging) than ever before. Can you use your fashion knowledge to help us raise money to support and empower some of the world’s most vulnerable communities?

What you can do at the shop:

You can get involved with any of the following:

· Selecting the best stock from the amazing donations we receive

· Researching rare and valuable stock

· Preparation and presentation of stock

· Photography and editing

· Creating accurate and engaging online listings

· Creating engaging content for the shop's social media platforms

· Upcycling items, or creating new items from waste textiles

What we can offer:

Oxfam's core values are empowerment, inclusiveness and accountability, and we stand by these in all aspects of our work. We provide a safe, friendly and supportive environment and we have a range of tasks to suit all potential volunteers. When you volunteer with us you will have the opportunity to develop your skills (and enhance your CV) and bring your own ideas into the shop. You will be warmly welcomed and you will feel a sense of ownership over the work you do. We will provide full training, giving you the benefit of our experience. We provide references for our volunteers, and we believe nobody should be out of pocket to volunteer with us, so if you live outside the Cotham area we can help with reasonable travel costs.

What our team have to say about working at the shop:

“Oxfam has given me my first relevant volunteering experience – I’ve learnt about a range of different items as well as how an organisation works – and it gives me a chance each week to switch my focus away from uni work!”

“You come across lots of interesting items, but it can be a thrill when you find something rare or out of the ordinary”

“I’ve been here for four years and I love it – very friendly team, very varied – dealing with high end clothing, antiquarian books, household items and much more – it’s great to find new homes for unwanted goods”

What we ask for:

· Enthusiasm for selling stuff online!

· A willingness to learn and to work within Oxfam's core values

· A commitment of a 3 hour shift per week for at least 3 months

· A commitment to abide by all shop health and safety processes

What your help will enable us to do:

Every pound raised in these incredibly challenging times supports Oxfam’s aim of ending extreme poverty. This income is vital to empower people to help themselves out of poverty, and, crucially, it allows us to act immediately when a disaster happens - saving lives and providing essential resources to help rebuild communities.

Can you help us raise as much as we can to continue our work this year? We won't live with poverty. If you feel the same way we would love to work with you!

We need a friendly volunteer who can assist with our foodbank operations on Thursdays.

Morning and afternoon sessions are available.
• Morning session: Heavy lifting, setting up for the foodbank, decanting, lifting crates.
• Afternoon session: Assisting users around the foodbank to claim their food.
Join us in supporting our community during the summer!

Expenses are covered up to £5.

Love to read? Know your classics? Up on the latest bestsellers? We are looking for people that love books - fiction or non-fiction, classic or contemporary - to help us select, research, prepare, photograph and list our eclectic stock for sale on Oxfam’s bespoke online shop. During these uncertain times Oxfam’s work to tackle global poverty is more vital (and more challenging) than ever before. Can you put your book expertise to use to help us raise money to support and empower some of the world’s most vulnerable communities?

What you can do at the shop:

· Stock selection to help us match our listings with our customers’ interests

· Researching rare and valuable books

· Photography and editing

· Creating accurate and engaging online listings

What we can offer:

Oxfam's core values are empowerment, inclusiveness and accountability, and we stand by these in all aspects of our work. When you volunteer with us you will have the opportunity to develop your skills (and enhance your CV) and bring your own ideas into the shop. You will be warmly welcomed and you will feel a sense of ownership over the work you do. We will provide full training, giving you the benefit of our experience. We provide references for our volunteers, and we believe nobody should be out of pocket to volunteer with us, so if you live outside the Cotham area we can help with reasonable travel costs.

What our team have to say about working at the shop:

“Oxfam has given me my first relevant volunteering experience – I’ve learnt about a range of different items as well as how an organisation works – and it gives me a chance each week to switch my focus away from uni work!”

“You come across lots of interesting items, but it can be a thrill when you find something rare or out of the ordinary”

“I’ve been here for four years and I love it – very friendly team, very varied – dealing with high end clothing, antiquarian books, household items and much more – it’s great to find new homes for unwanted goods”

What we ask for:

· Enthusiasm for selling books online!

· A willingness to learn and to work within Oxfam's core values

· A commitment of a 3 hour shift per week for at least 3 months

· A commitment to abide by all shop health and safety processes

What your help will enable us to do:

Every pound raised in these incredibly challenging times supports Oxfam’s aim of ending extreme poverty. This income is vital to empower people to help themselves out of poverty, and, crucially, it allows us to act immediately when a disaster happens - saving lives and providing essential resources to help rebuild communities.

Can you help us raise as much as we can to continue our work this year? We won't live with poverty. If you feel the same way we would love to work with you!

What will I be doing? You will be supporting JDRF’s Public Affairs team by offering administrative support and conducting research. The public affairs team builds relationships with professional stakeholders to explain organisational policies and views on issues affecting those with type 1 diabetes. They also analyse government policy and look for ways of influencing legislation.

Suggested activities include:

• Analysing and managing data
• Parliamentary and political research
• Highlighting key points and messages to relevant members of staff
• Summarising debates when required
• Other support for the wider team as needed

How will this benefit JDRF? Your support will help flag potential lobbying opportunities and raise the profile of JDRF. As a result, you will be helping to improve the lives of people living with type 1 and supporting our mission to discover better treatments, expand access and work towards a future free from type 1 diabetes.

How will this benefit me? This role provides a unique and sought after opportunity to work within the charity sector in the area of public affairs. It will give you the chance to:

• Develop new, or utilise existing, skills in summarising debates, analysing and managing data •
• Gain valuable insight and experience in public affairs in the third sector
• Increase knowledge of parliamentary and political research
• Develop the role
• Improve skills in collaborating with other teams by highlighting key points and messages to relevant members of staff

When do you need me? Minimum 7 hours a week, starting as soon as possible. Hours will be discussed at interview.

Where is this role based? JDRF Head Office in Islington, London, with the possibility of home working.

What training will I receive? You’ll receive full training in parliamentary monitoring and general public affairs, with full support from the team.

What are my goals? Keep up to date with parliamentary monitoring, flag suitable opportunities for political engagement, identify key messages from debates and keep the team updated and informed.

What skills and attributes do I need?

• Research experience
• An interest in and basic knowledge of the UK political system
• Good communication skills
• IT skills
• Methodical, organised and accurate attention to detail

What support is available to me? You will have a named staff contact based in the office who will lead your training in public affairs and provide ongoing support. You’ll have regular check-ins with them about your role, and the Volunteer Team will also be available to you for any support outside of the day-to-day activities of your role.

Sounds great! How do I get involved? If you’re interested in applying, you’ll need to send us your CV and a covering letter highlighting your experience and knowledge of the specific skills required. Once we receive this, those shortlisted for the role will be invited for an interview, which we give us the opportunity to ask you a couple of questions and also give you the opportunity to ask us questions too. We want to make sure that this is the right role for you and that you’ll be happy providing this support. 

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

Get Out There groups are a growing division of Sense that cater for children between 6 and 16 with complex needs. We provide a 4 hour social setting which caters for children and families who need respite. We offer activities such as games, puzzles, arts and crafts, experiments, cookery and sensory play. We aim to tailor sessions to the needs, interests and abilities of the children we support and put pupil voice at the center of all we do. 

As a volunteer you'll make sure that everyone has a great time and can make the most of the activities on offer. You'll need lots of energy, a warm and welcoming personality and to be happy getting stuck in to a wide range of tasks and activities, all of which make sure that everyone has the best day they can together. 

What your role will involve

• Taking part in activities alongside disabled young people. You could be joining creative activities, movement or sports session, trips out in to the local community or seasonal themed activities. 
• Helping to set up the activities at the start of the day, clear away at the end and keep activities safe, clean and running smoothly throughout.
• Helping to welcome young people to the group, find their way around and between activities, enjoy breaks and lunchtime and generally have a great day with the team and Sense.

A basic / enhanced Disclosure & Barring check will be required for this volunteer role. 

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Fun and friendly and confident to meet and spend time with disabled young people.
• Willing to develop the knowledge and skills to communicate with young people who have multi sensory impairments and who may use a wide range of communication methods
• Able to work well in a team and be flexible about the role you play during the day depending on what’s needed by individuals and activities
• Reliable and punctual.
• Committed to providing support in a way that offers choice, independence and dignity
• We welcome volunteers of all ages to this role who are able to create an inclusive and welcoming peer environment for everyone involved in the group. 

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• Induction information to prepare you for your role, a briefing at the start of each event, and lots of on-site support and guidance from our experienced staff team who will be running the day
• Agreed out of pocket expenses to be reimbursed, in line with Sense policy
• The chance to get to know new people, try new activities in your local community and to have lots of fun taking part together 
• To develop new skills and knowledge about communicating and working with children and young people with complex communication needs and multi-sensory impairment 
• To know you’re part of a passionate and committed team making a big difference to how young people are able to get the most out of both new and favourite activities and to have a great time together.
• If you are 16 or 17 we will ask to make contact with a parent or other appropriate adult to share details of your volunteering role, timings and contact / emergency information. 

About us

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life. 

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.