93 Policy research volunteer volunteer roles

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Communications Volunteer you’ll play a key role in promoting your group to people in your area affected by MS, and helping them feel connected. You could be editing newsletters, responding to information requests, or developing engaging content for social media — depending on what the group needs.

In this role you’ll develop your writing skills, and gain experience of communicating across a range of digital channels.

Most importantly you’ll be helping us engage with lots of people and get the word out to people with MS about support to help them live their lives to the full.

Why we want you

As one of our wonderful volunteers, you can get involved in:

• providing support and services to the MS community
• increasing awareness of, and delivering resources to, people affected by MS
• raising vital funds to help stop MS
• boosting our community voice by advocating for MS research and policy.

What you will be doing

• Creating content for, promoting and moderating group social media channels
• Writing and editing newsletters and promotional materials in line with brand guidelines
• Updating group information resources
• Supporting the group’s shared responsibility for designing and delivering services and activities

The skills you need

• Skills and/or experience in what you'll be doing
• Commitment to MS Society policies and procedures
• Confidence in using Microsoft Office, the internet and email will be required for some volunteer roles
• Compassion and sensitivity
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when required
• A willingness to support the work of MS Society and be a positive representative for the MS community

What's in it for you:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work
• You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack
• You’ll have an induction to your role
• You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities
• You’ll be reimbursed for any expenses while carrying out your role

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As an Administration Volunteer you’ll play an essential role in your local group.

You’ll act as the first point of contact for the group and circulate information to other volunteers and members. You’ll ensure that data and details are kept up to date, to comply with data protection legislation.

In this role you’ll develop your administration and organisation skills.

Why we want you

As one of our wonderful volunteers, you can get involved in:

• providing support and services to the MS community
• increasing awareness of, and delivering resources to people affected by MS
• raising vital funds to help stop MS
• boosting our community voice by advocating for MS research and policy

What you will be doing

• Keeping records and data up to date and taking notes at meetings
• Preparing mailouts and answering enquiries from the group inbox
• Booking venues for meetings and activities
• Keeping other group volunteers informed of current agreements and activities
• Supporting the development of the group’s activity plan
• Supporting the group’s shared responsibility for designing and delivering services and activities.

The skills you need

• Skills and/or experience in what you'll be doing
• Commitment to MS Society policies and procedures
• Confidence in using Microsoft Office, the internet and email will be required for some volunteer roles
• Compassion and sensitivity
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when required
• A willingness to support the work of MS Society and be a positive representative for the MS community.

What's in it for you:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work
• You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack
• You’ll have an induction to your role
• You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities
• You’ll be reimbursed for any related expenses while carrying out your role

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Fundraising Volunteer, you’ll provide much-needed help looking after fundraising relationships, and with fundraising activities and events. You’ll help us look after the supporters who are fundraising for us — to make sure they’re happy and feel part of what we do. You’ll also support us with planning and running events, including preparation and making sure everything runs smoothly on the day.

In this role you’ll develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.

Why we want you

As one of our wonderful volunteers, you can get involved in:

• providing support and services to the MS community
• increasing awareness of, and delivering resources to, people affected by MS
• raising vital funds to help stop MS
• boosting our community voice by advocating for MS research and policy.

What you will be doing

• Raising vital funds as part of a team or fundraising group
• Assisting at fundraising events
• Promoting the group’s Enthuse fundraising page
• Contacting our fundraising supporters to keep them updated and involved
• Identifying and participating in local fundraising opportunities
• Following our health and safety guidance
• Coordinating and supporting other volunteers involved in fundraising
• Supporting the group’s shared responsibility for designing and delivering services and activities.

The skills you need

• Skills and/or experience in what you'll be doing
• Commitment to MS Society policies and procedures
• Confidence in using Microsoft Office, the internet and email will be required for some volunteer roles
• Compassion and sensitivity
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when required
• A willingness to support the work of MS Society and be a positive representative for the MS community.

What's in it for you:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work
• You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack
• You’ll have an induction to your role
• You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities
• You’ll be reimbursed for any related expenses while carrying out your role

Keytasks include:

· Lead on recruitment activity and selection decisions

· Carry out initial conversations and informal screening

· Coordinate onboarding and inductions

· Allocate tasks 

· Support volunteers day to day

· Build relationships and maintain engagement

· Deliver role-specific training

· Ensure volunteers complete required training

· Address minor issues and provide feedback

· Escalate concerns to HR where needed

· Maintain volunteer records (contact details, availability, hours if needed)

· Act as main point of contact for volunteers

· Conducting 1-1s with volunteers as well as offering informal support

· Raise safeguarding concerns as appropriate using internal processes and procedures

· Maintain confidentiality and follow charity policies and procedures

· Undertake relevant training

Key Objectives Include:

· Ensure that Mast Cell Action has a steady stream of volunteers enabling the charity to achieve its objective goals

· Represent Mast Cell Action professionally at all times, demonstrating strong communication skills, reliability, and adaptability whilst working remotely

Experience/skills required:

· Proven experience as a volunteer manager/coordinator or relevant HR experience

· Excellent verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences and adapt your communication style to different formats and audiences.

· Patience, empathy and compassion. Openness to support people from all backgrounds

· Reliability and trustworthiness

· Proficiency in CRMs and able to use our bespoke database to maintain accurate volunteer records

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a remote team, demonstrating reliability, flexibility, and professionalism at all times.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The National Institute for African Studies (NIAS) is a London-based think tank that provides objective information on African affairs, looking to appoint a Research & Publishing Intern within its office in South West, London. Our main publication, The Saharan is an interdisciplinary journal published by NIAS aimed at exploring the dynamic relationship between culture and development in Africa/UK.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

- Support the editors in the sourcing & production of blog and journal publications

- Checking material for completeness, copy-edit and check appropriate non-technical material such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter updates

- Generate, check and correct files with names, contact information, number of articles, review assessments, and consent forms.

- Serve as a custodian of approved originals of all documentation produced for The Saharan journal

- Use NIAS LinkedIn account to connect to academics and groups to promote the journal, acquire papers, and attract skilled scholars to become reviewers

- Coordinate the publication flow of the journal and all stages of the editorial processes upon the release of each issue

- Review and adjust publications according to the style of the journal, ensuring the correct usage of references and plagiarism checking

- Update wordpress website and a range of social media accounts with news, updates and promotions

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST:

- Have a minimum of undergraduate degree

- Excellent knowledge of MS Office applications

- Good knowledge of wordpress, crm, social media tools

- Demonstrate excellent editorial and administrative skills together with high attention to detail

- Ability to work under pressure to tight schedules and deadlines

TO APPLY:

- CV

- Covering Letter

- Official transcript(s) of universities attended

- Contact information for two referees (email and telephone preferably from both universities and workplaces)

The position is based in London, UK. Only candidates who already possess the right to work in the UK should apply. The contract is for three months with a probation period of six weeks, extendable upon agreement and contingent on a continued volunteer/paid position.

Candidates should send a covering letter explaining the skills they would offer to NIAS, attaching a CV and a list of referees. The deadline for this round of application is 30 April. Due to the high number of applicants, only those selected will be contacted.

Flexible Working Options Available:

• Flexitime
• Work from home/university
• Part-time

Job Types: Volunteer, Internship

Benefits:

• Travel Expenses, Flexitime
• Support with relevant training
• Career Mentorship
• Sponsored attendance/Presentation at cultural events, conferences, seminars

Education:

•  BSc. and equivalent or higher (required)

Experience:

• Publishing: 1 year (preferred)
• Research 1 year (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

 Purpose of the Role

We are looking for a volunteer, preferably with corporate fundraising experience to research the corporate giving landscape and the interests of potential doners. As a Corporate Fundraising Volunteer for unpaid carers, you will play a key part in helping Carers Trust Hillingdon & Ealing secure funding that enables us to continue and expand our vital services for unpaid carers across the borough.

Your support will directly contribute to improving the quality of life for carers by enabling new services, resources, and opportunities. This role is ideal for someone with good communication and organisational skills who enjoys building connections and making a tangible difference in the community.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Identify potential corporate doners and partners whose corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals align with our mission and values.

• Approach local and national businesses over the telephone to inform them of the work of Carers Trust Hillingdon & Ealing

• Keep accurate records of all approaches and outcomes.

• Attend and help organise fundraising events that support our mission.

• To carry out the above tasks in accordance with the policies of Carers Trust Hillingdon & Ealing, including our Equal Opportunities, Safeguarding, Confidentiality and Health & Safety.

Preferred Skills and Qualities

• Good understanding of corporate fundraising, including challenges and opportunities.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Organised, reliable and able to manage time effectively.

• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.

• Able to understand and work within resource and role boundaries.

• Passionate about achieving a high-quality service for unpaid carers in Hillingdon.

• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

What You Will Gain

• Purpose and fulfilment: Contribute directly to sustaining and growing services that support unpaid carers.

• Professional experience: Gain valuable insight into charity fundraising, marketing, and community partnerships.

• Skill development: Strengthen your communication, writing, and organisational 

skills.

• Confidence building: Engage with corporate funders and local businesses.

• Training and support: Receive full induction and ongoing training and guidance from experienced staff.

• Recognition: Be part of a supportive team, attend volunteer celebrations, and receive references or certificates for your contribution.

Additional Notes / Special Requirement

• Flexible working hours and days.

• An enhanced DBS check and references will be required before commencing the role.

• Travel expenses reimbursed in line with Carers Trust Hillingdon & Ealing’s volunteer policy where appropriate.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As an Activities Organiser, you'll bring your skills, energy and enthusiasm to lead, develop and plan activities and events with your local group. You’ll get involved in creating and coordinating an annual calendar of events, makingsure they’re run safely and effectively, to be accessible to our MS community. You’ll take a lead role at events on the day, inspiring your fellow volunteers to get involved.

Why we want you:

As one of our wonderful volunteers, you can get involved in:

• providing support and services to the MS community
• increasing awareness of, and delivering resources to people affected by MS
• raising vital funds to help stop MS
• boosting our community voice by advocating for MS research and policy.

What you will be doing:

• Using and developing your creativity, communication and organisation skills to lead your fellow volunteers in new and existing activities
• Communicating with other group volunteers
• Helping to locate the right venues
• Promoting activities online and in your community
• Completing Health and Safety documents and uploading them to our system
• Liaising with Service Providers.

The skills you need

• Skills and/or experience in what you'll be doing
• Commitment to MS Society policies and procedures
• Confidence in using Microsoft Office, the internet and email will be required for some volunteer roles
• Compassion and sensitivity
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when required
• A willingness to support the work of MS Society and be a positive representative for the MS community.

What's in it for you:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work
• You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack
• You’ll have an induction to your role
• You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities

Role: Director of Local Operations

Job Description:
Youth Advantage UK is seeking a volunteer Director of Local Operations to develop and lead its Local Operations Departments (England and Wales; Scotland and Northern Ireland) in identifying and delivering on opportunities for the organisation to have an impact at a local level through commissioned research projects. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring these Departments produce high-quality research projects which meet the goals agreed with the commissioning organisations and grow Youth Advantage’s reputation and reach in line with its strategic policies. Working closely with the COO and the Policy and Ethics Departments, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to effectively guide and strengthen the organisation’s ability to enable evidence-based, positive local change. They should have excellent writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

This role reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer.

Responsibilities:

● In line with the organisation’s strategic priorities, to lead the Local Operations Department in designing, developing and implementing impactful research and project objectives.

● To line manage the Head of Local Operations (England and Wales) and the Head of Local Operations (Scotland and Northern Ireland), supporting them to effectively manage their own teams and to develop and implement the frameworks necessary for producing top quality research projects based around both desktop research and fieldwork.

● To work with HR in creating a strong Local Operations Department composed of individuals with the appropriate skills and expertise. To ensure these volunteers are appropriately supported and trained during their period of service.

● To work alongside the Policy Department to source potential commission and project opportunities, shaping the focus and output of the Local Operations Department accordingly.

● To develop short- and long-term strategies in relation to the Department’s activity, ensuring that these align with the wider strategies of the organisation.

● To liaise with the Policy and Ethics Department of the organisation on an ongoing basis, ensuring that their advice is incorporated into Departmental decisions and output.

● To take responsibility for relationships with key external stakeholders, at all times representing the organisation positively and professionally.

● To work on an on-going basis with the other members of the organisation’s Senior Leadership Team in determining its strategic priorities and incorporating these into the Department.

● To monitor, analyse and respond to external trends which impact on the organisation’s strategies and the Local Operations Department’s activities.

● To work closely with the organisation’s Communications Department in developing and implementing effective strategies to raise the organisation’s profile and impact.

● To create blogs and articles on related issues and to find and distribute information on related topics which may be of interest to the other organisation members.

● To support the Chief Executive Officer in presenting local operations strategies to Youth Advantage’s Trustees.

Requirements:

● Experience in research and planning, leading key campaigns or programmes.

● High-level understanding of carrying out quality desktop research and related fieldwork, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities.

● Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to effectively disseminating research results.

● Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members.

● Excellent writing and speaking skills.

● IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

● Ability to work well independently and in a team.

● Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

● Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

Benefits

● Gain valuable experience in leading a research and project team.

● Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.

● Flexible working hours.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Regional Communications Volunteer, you’ll play a vital role helping local volunteer groups connect with and engage with MS communities. Working with volunteers across the region, you will support activities such as producing newsletters, responding to information enquiries, or developing engaging content for regional social media.

Most importantly you’ll be helping us engage with lots of people and get the word out to people with MS about support to help them live their lives to the full.

This role is suitable for role sharing.  It would be most suitable for those based in Lincolnshire.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a local group Finance Volunteer, you’ll make sure your group gets the most for their money. In this role you’ll be able to develop your financial and communication skills whilst working closely with other members of the group Coordinating Team.

Most importantly, you’ll be part of a team that provides vital support and services to people within your local MS community.

We’re looking for three Support Group Volunteer over the age of 18 years old, based in Scotland.

You’ll be volunteering fortnightly Thursday between 10:30am and 11:30am plus additional time for volunteer team meetings and training.

As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group. The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.

The volunteer will be

· A people person, with good listening skills

· A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people

· Good at putting people at ease

· Reliable and organised

· Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke

· IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies

A protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check is required for this role.

About Us

The Beacon Project is a community-focused programme providing confidential advice, connection, and learning opportunities for residents in the World’s End area. Through weekly coffee mornings, group sessions, and a befriending service that matches individuals with friendly Connectors for regular meet-ups, Beacon helps reduce isolation and build meaningful local relationships. We also offer free, practical support on issues such as benefits and housing, helping people understand their options and access the advice they need. The programme is delivered as a partnership between Family Friends and Nucleus Legal Advice Centre.

About the Role

As a Legal Advice Volunteer, you will be the first point of contact for many of our clients, providing a welcoming and professional service while supporting our advice team. You will play an important role in helping people access the advice and support they need, while gaining valuable experience in legal advice and community engagement.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in legal advice, social justice, policy, or community development who wants to gain practical experience while making a meaningful difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out initial triage to assess advice needs and, where appropriate, signpost clients to relevant services.

• Analyse information from advice cases to identify recurring issues and patterns affecting residents.

• Assist clients in completing income and expenditure forms and budgeting plans.

• Help gather evidence from client experiences to support service improvement and advocacy.

• Support projects and campaigns focused on digital inclusion, accessibility, and reducing barriers to online services

• Support the delivery of drop-in advice sessions.

• Complete benefit checks and applications.

• Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and community partners to achieve shared objectives.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Beacon Project is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity, respect and fairness. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during volunteering to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.

We believe that a diverse team helps us better serve the residents of World's End Estate and strengthens our work within the community.

Expenses

We want volunteering with us to be accessible to everyone. Reasonable travel and food expenses will be reimbursed. Further information on claiming expenses will be provided during the interview stage.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a local group Support Volunteer you’ll signpost people affected by MS to information about local and national services. That could be helping someone access information about the care or benefits they need or giving them a hand with a grant application.

In this role you’ll develop your listening and communication skills, as well as your knowledge of local services.

Join the Team and Help Us Build the Future of The Swadhinata Trust 

The Swadhinata Trust is embarking on a journey of significant growth and transformation. Having recently refreshed our purpose, mission, and brand, we are now ready for our next big leap: transitioning from a grassroots volunteer organisation to a scalable charity with paid staff and expanded reach.

To reach our full potential, we need 'roll-up-your-sleeves' leaders who are eager to help us transform. This isn’t just about giving advice from the sidelines; it’s about being the engine of our transformation. Whether you are an expert in your field or looking to develop new skills, joining us as a collaborative partner offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on our journey.

How Can You Help 

We are looking for both professionals and enthusiasts eager to use their skills to help us transform. Whether you can offer 2 hours a week or 10, your expertise will be a vital part of reaching our big goals. You don’t need to be a veteran in your field; we value a 'roll-up-your-sleeves' attitude and a commitment to our mission just as much as a CV.

Operations Volunteer

The Goal: You are the engine room! You’ll help ensure our day-to-day systems, from IT to HR, are smooth and supportive.

We’d love help with:

• Daily Support: Helping with office admin, logistics, or coordinating meetings.

• Improving Systems: Assisting with our CRM (database) or helping the team get the most out of our tech.

• People Support: Helping with the "welcome" process for new staff or volunteers.

What you bring:

• A proactive, "can-do" attitude and a knack for multitasking.

• Great people skills and an organised approach to busy days.

• Tech-savviness (or a quick ability to learn new software).