Social Welfare Volunteer Roles

Trustees

Type: Voluntary Position

Location: Glenrothes/Hybrid

Glenrothes Foodbank are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by the Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger in local communities across the UK. They don’t believe anyone within the community should have to face going hungry, that’s why the Foodbank are committed to addressing poverty and hunger locally, providing three days' worth of nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to individuals referred to them during times of crisis.

Their values are the fundamental driving principles that encapsulate the passion and motivation for their work to end food poverty.

Compassion: We stand in solidarity with people that need the help of food banks. We put the wellbeing of people served by food banks above everything else. We always uphold and protect their dignity.

Justice: We are motivated by a desire to see a more just society. It’s not right that anyone is facing hunger and poverty. Everyone should have enough income to afford the essentials.

Community: We believe we share the responsibility to support one another in our communities. To create change, we must work together for a fairer society.

Dignity: We recognise the innate value of each individual person and seek to prioritise the other person’s needs and concerns in the spirit of mutuality and friendship. Regardless of background.

The opportunity has arisen for new Trustees to join the Board of Glenrothes Foodbank, to strategically guide the organisation forward.

The Role of Trustee:

As a Trustee, your role will be pivotal in shaping the priorities and vision for the foodbank. You'll play a crucial part in engaging with strategic planning, developing action plans to drive the Foodbank forward, and ensuring policies and procedures are robust. Working in collaboration with the Board, you’ll oversee the organisation’s operations, manage paid staff members and oversee financial matters, ensuring that the activities of the foodbank are in the interests of beneficiaries.

You should align with Glenrothes Foodbank’s values and have a passion, interest, and commitment to tackling food poverty across Glenrothes and its local communities. We are interested in candidates with skills or experience in the following areas: finance, law (specifically charity law), fundraising, property and estates management, experience leading an organisation. However, don’t let that list hold you back, if you share the passion of the foodbank and have skills to contribute, please get in touch.

Previous board experience or knowledge of governance is desirable, while excellent communication, teamworking, and interpersonal skills are essential.

The board typically meet 1 evening per month at the Foodbank in Glenrothes. Online attendance can be accommodated, however there is a strong preference that meetings are attended in person.

How to Apply:

Please email us to request an information pack, full job description and person specification.

Closing Date: Midday, Wednesday 19th February

This search is being conducted exclusively for Glenrothes Foodbank by BTA (Bruce Tait Associates). Our leadership team have all worked in the voluntary sector and we use this experience to match organisations and individuals to create great appointments.

The Men in Sheds Project: Is a project specifically for men aged 50+. It provides a well equipped workshop space where men can work together on a range of practical activities. We currently have ‘sheds’ in Blidworth and Worksop. The project aims to:

- encourage men to be more socially active

- give members an outlet for their skills and the opportunity to learn new skills

- provide a break amongst friends for older men who are carers

- give retired men the opportunity to make a valuable contribution to the local community

- provide access to information and other local services Members are encouraged to take ownership of their ’shed’.

What impact does this role have? This role helps combat social isolation for men over the age of 50.

What activities might you be involved in?

• To unlock the shed and get it ready for use, heating, check for unsafe items of machines etc.

• Supervising workshop sessions, alongside another volunteer.

• Collect or oversee the payment of subscriptions, ensure that members book in on the attendance register

• Assist members if needed with projects, lifting etc.

• Agree with members in advance on the price of projects that members make

• Take payment for items when finished, issue a receipt and record the sale

• Encourage work that could be done to members, orders, seasonal items etc.

• Meet and greet visitors, ensure they comply with all safety requirements and to sign in

• Meet and greet potential new members, show them around the shed and briefly describe the aims and function of the shed. Arrange a meeting with a shed leader for induction if interested. Ensure they comply with all safety requirements and to sign in

• (With one other Volunteer or member) Count and record subscriptions & tea fund at the end of the day and put away in the safe 

• You will be supported by a staff member from the Men in Sheds Team 

• To check that everything is switched off, the ‘Red Button’ is pressed and to lock up at the end of the day

• Reporting any concerns to the Shed leader

What are we looking for?

➢ Friendly personality and approachable manner

➢ Ability to use own initiative to work alone, or as part of a team

➢ Understanding of the workshop environment and/ or working with power tools

➢ Appreciation of the need to follow health and safety guidelines

o Ensure members follow the shed’s General Safety Rules

o Ensure that all members work in a safe manner

o Ensure machines are not used inappropriately

o Ensure members wear the correct PPE equipment as per the H&S notices,

o To wear PPE equipment yourself, if you don’t use PPE and injure yourself, you could be negligent, the shed will not accept any responsibility for your injury. This should also be pointed out to members

o Ensure there is no smoking in the shed, only in the outside designated smoking area

o Stop other members from carrying out unsafe practices or report it to a Shed Leader immediately

o Actively contribute to keeping the shed clean and tidy

➢ Expected levels of conduct include:

o Treat members and fellow volunteers in a friendly and supportive approachable manner

o Not use rude, offensive, threatening or abusive behaviour, language or gestures

o If anybody is deemed under the influence they will be asked to leave the shed and not to return until sober

o Report any incidents or breach of any of the above to the Shed Leader in confidence

o Report any complaints about the project / charity in line with Age UK Notts’ Compliments and Complaints procedure

➢ Be able to cover a session either weekly or to provide cover on an ‘as needed’ basis.

Ability to work sensitively and confidentially with men from a variety of backgrounds.

➢ Willingness to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check. 

We are looking for volunteers who can regularly commit to at least one session per week.

• The Worksop Shed: Open Monday - Wednesday: 9am - 2pm and we are looking for volunteers on all days.
• The Blidworth Shed: Open Tuesday 9am - 2pm & Thursday 9am - 1pm and will soon be opening on a Wednesday (9am until 2pm), and we are looking for volunteers on a Wednesday and a Thursday.

Days to be agreed with the shed.

Please note that this volunteer role is aimed at the older male population who attends the shed and applicants must have been a member of the shed for at least 3 months.

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

Become a Volunteer Trustee at Kyffin Place Community Centre – Make a Difference in Bradford!

Are you passionate about supporting your local community? Do you want to use your skills and experience to help shape the future of a vital community hub in Bradford? Kyffin Place Community Centre who run The Sutton Centre and Holme Centre is looking for new Volunteer Trustees to join our Board and play a key role in making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

About Kyffin Place Community Centre

Kyffin Place Community Centre (known locally as the Sutton Centre) is a grassroots, community-led charity (no.1179336) based on the outskirts of Holme Wood in Bradford. Our charity's overarching objectives are to support the improvement of the health and wellbeing of our local community and to facilitate the creation of positive community relationships. Over the last 6 years, we have worked very hard to refurbish an unused building and create a welcoming, warm and inclusive community hub in the heart of our neighbourhood where people feel safe and are able to take part in a range of community activities as well as accessing support and advice.

We offer 25 activities each week in our community centre and over 20 activities a week in our two local outreach centres. Our activity timetable, incorporating sessions run both by our charity and by partner organisations provides activities appropriate for people aged 0 to 100. We are open 7 days a week and offer a wide range of services including support for families, older people and the long term unemployed. We work with a range of partners to deliver the activities and utilise local expertise to deliver the adult education sessions, youth work and advice services.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking individuals who are passionate about community work, have a commitment to making a difference, and want to help guide the direction of Kyffin Place Community Centre. You don’t need to have previous board experience – we welcome individuals from all backgrounds who bring diverse perspectives, skills, and enthusiasm to the table.

Key Responsibilities of a Trustee

- Attend regular board meetings (approx. 6 per year) and participate in decision-making processes.

- Provide strategic leadership and support to the Centre’s staff and volunteers.

- Help ensure that Kyffin Place Community Centre complies with its legal and financial obligations.

- Promote the Centre's vision and mission within the wider community.

- Support fundraising efforts and help identify new opportunities for growth and sustainability.

What We Offer 

- An opportunity to make a tangible difference in your local community.

- The chance to gain experience in governance and charity leadership.

- A collaborative and supportive environment where your contributions are valued.

- Training and development opportunities to help you thrive in your role.

Who We Need 

We are particularly interested in individuals who have skills or experience in one or more of the following areas: 

- Community development or outreach 

- Finance and budgeting 

- Fundraising or grant writing 

- Marketing and communications 

- Strategic planning or business development 

- Legal or governance knowledge 

However, if you have a passion for helping others and a willingness to contribute to the success of Kyffin Place Community Centre, we would love to hear from you!

We are looking for a compassionate volunteer to support our busy Tower Hamlets SASS (Solace Advocacy and Support Service) team.

Tower Hamlets SASS is a crisis intervention service, which provides advice and support to people aged 16+ in Tower Hamlets who are currently experiencing domestic abuse. Survivors who access our services can receive a range of support. This includes our DWP IDVA, who focus on short-medium term support for those experiencing economic abuse or those who have become unemployed due to domestic abuse. We also support survivors presenting as homeless at Tower Hamlets Housing Options, and those with mental health needs.

About the Role

We are looking for a reliable and organised volunteer to assist our duty team, supporting survivors in an advocacy and admin role. Responsibilities will include:

• Assisting with the processing of referrals for duty with service users.  
• Taking initial call details with the Duty IDVA to understand service user needs.
• To be trained on DASH RIC Assessments.
• To be available for the Duty IDVA and help with queries.
• General Data entry tasks.

Who are we looking for?

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

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

What can you gain from this opportunity?

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

• Gain experience and understanding of Violence against Women and Girls.
• Enabling service users to access valuable support that assists in their journey towards safe, independent lives, free from abuse.
• Contribute and support a busy and diverse team.
• Play a pivotal role in delivering services.
• Hands on experience in a dynamic charity working in the Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Sector.
• Work as part of a feminist organisation.
• Have the opportunity to shadow a number of roles.
• Start to develop and understanding of risk assessment and safety planning.

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

We stop good food from going to waste and give it to people who need it.

Warehouse volunteers sort and pack food donations and ready orders for distribution to the people who need it.

What will I be doing?

• Manually packing food orders
• Sorting, labelling and repacking food donations
• Making sure food is within use by dates and handled safely

What we need you to be:

• Able to perform physical tasks including lifting and loading
• Able to work well in a team and on your own
• Adaptable and flexible. Managing surplus food is unpredictable and tasks vary
• Positive, friendly and personable
• Work well in a team and on your own
• Follow health and safety policies & procedures.

Why volunteer as a Warehouse Assistant?

• Gain warehouse management skills such as food safety, manual handling and forklift training if available at your site
• Meet new people, be part of a team and socialise with fellow volunteers
• Keep physically fit and active
• Be at the forefront of stopping good food from going to waste, and ensuring it gets to people who need it
• Search on our website for more benefits from volunteering with FareShare.

Solace is proud to support over 130 amazing volunteers, who are central to the success of our services. Our volunteers are embedded across services, from refuges to helplines, helping us to support more vulnerable women and girls to receive the excellent service that they deserve. Volunteers at Solace are involved in meaningful activities, and receive guidance and training to enable them to excel in their roles. The volunteer team supports volunteers at every stage of their journey including recruitment, training, ensuring they are recognised and celebrated, and making sure they receive high standards of support.

About the Role

This is an exciting new role to help support our growing volunteer team. The Volunteer Team Communications Volunteer will assist the Volunteer Coordinator in the follow tasks:

• Help in writing monthly Volunteer Newsletters.
• Assist in creating the monthly Volunteer Updates Newsletter (which is sent to Solace Staff).
• Help in the organisation and distribution of Thank You cards and other acts of recognition.
• Assist in the research, planning and delivery of bi-annual Volunteer Appreciation events, including the yearly Volunteer of The Year Award Party .
• Assist in developing copy to be shared internally to volunteers regarding social events, training and other opportunities.
• Researching new platforms to advertise volunteer roles.
• Updating handbooks and other volunteer materials when necessary.

Who are we looking for?

We think you will thrive in this role if you are:

• Organised with good IT skills.
• Creative and curious.
• Reliable and committed.
• Understanding of domestic violence issues and a discretion in handling confidential and/or sensitive information.
• Approachable and empathetic.
• Non-judgmental.

What can you gain from this opportunity?

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

• Hands on experience in a dynamic charity working in the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Sector.
• Work as part of a feminist organisation.
• Experience of supporting a fast paced team.
• Opportunities for training in domestic abuse and related issues.
• Learn about volunteer programme management and coordination.

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

looking for a compassionate Sylheti-speaking volunteer to support our busy Tower Hamlets SASS (Solace Advocacy and Support Service) team.

Tower Hamlets SASS is a crisis intervention service, which provides advice and support to people aged 16+ in Tower Hamlets who are currently experiencing domestic abuse. Survivors who access our services can receive a range of support. This includes our DWP IDVA, who focus on short-medium term support for those experiencing economic abuse or those who have become unemployed due to domestic abuse. We also support survivors presenting as homeless at Tower Hamlets Housing Options, and those with mental health needs.

About the Role

We are looking for a reliable and organised volunteer to assist our duty team, supporting survivors in an advocacy and admin role. Responsibilities will include:

• Assisting with the processing of referrals for duty with service users.  
• Taking initial call details with the Duty IDVA to understand service user needs.
• Volunteers will also to fill out self-referral forms for Sylheti-speaking clients. 
• To be available for the Duty IDVA and help with queries in Sylheti. 
• General Data entry tasks.

Who are we looking for?

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

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

What can you gain from this opportunity?

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

• Gain experience and understanding of Violence against Women and Girls.
• Enabling service users to access valuable support that assists in their journey towards safe, independent lives, free from abuse.
• Contribute and support a busy and diverse team.
• Play a pivotal role in delivering services.
• Hands on experience in a dynamic charity working in the Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Sector.
• Work as part of a feminist organisation.
• Have the opportunity to shadow a number of roles.
• Start to develop and understanding of risk assessment and safety planning.

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

This is an opportunity to provide really important support to a new project that we hope could really make a positive difference in the world. You would also become part of a small friendly volunteer team who would love to work collaboratively on any other ideas you may have regarding the app.

now-u is a non-profit that aims to inform, inspire and empower people to help tackle pressing social and environmental issues, in partnership with charities. People can often feel overwhelmed by large-scale problems and powerless to help, but all of us have huge power to drive change. This is where now-u comes in.

We connect people looking for ways to make a difference with impactful organisations and actions, enabling regular learning and action to tackle key local and global issues. By combining the actions of each of us, the now-u community can play a huge part in driving positive change.

Your role

You will be an organised and motivated individual with a passion for charitable causes to jointly lead our Campaigns team, which is responsible for overseeing the creation and curation of all core content. Campaign content includes learning materials, actions and charitable campaigns, designed to inform people about social and environmental issues, to inspire them to get more involved with these causes and to facilitate taking charitable action.

Note: This is a voluntary role, thus it will be unpaid

Key responsibilities

• Guiding the Campaigns team in the regular creation of new content
• Creating a Campaigns calendar, incorporating the suggestions of charity partners
• Attending weekly meetings with the department leads to discuss progress and strategy

Whilst it's desirable to possess leadership experience for this role, it is essential you have research experience.

We look forward to hearing from you!

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. 

Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace. 

Ready for an adventure? Dive into the heart of Quilombo UK by exploring our website and videos! Explore the values that guide our mission, values, and the impactful work we do to make a difference in our community.

Join us in leading positive change!

Are you a creative problem-solver who thrives on tackling diverse challenges and finding innovative solutions? Do you have a passion for using research to drive positive change and improve processes? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to join our dynamic team at Quilombo UK!

Main Responsibilities:

•  Identify and prioritize research areas based on organizational needs and objectives.
•  Design and execute research projects that provide actionable insights and recommendations.
•  Develop and implement creative solutions to identified challenges.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented solutions and make data-driven recommendations for continuous improvement.

General Tasks:

• Analyse data from various sources to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement solutions.
• Communicate research findings and recommendations to stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
•  Stay up to date with the latest research methodologies, tools, and best practices

Essential:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as business, marketing, social sciences, or a related discipline
• Proven experience in research design, data analysis, and problem-solving
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Passion for using research to drive positive change and improve organizational effectiveness.

Desirable:

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
•  Creativity and innovation in developing solutions to complex challenges.
• Experience with data visualization and presentation tools.
•  Knowledge of social marketing and community engagement strategies

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours of commitment per week across Monday to Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

About Us

Yala studios (YS) is yet to be registered as a charity. It currently exists as a concept of an organisation that will support black women and girls facing socio-economic disadvantage to improve their quality of life in the present. Once established, YS will conduct and use independent research to develop programmes under its four pillars: 

• Time - we aim to implement programmes that permit black women and girls to address time poverty. By doing so we anticipate seeing improvements in income and wealth, dignity, and connection and wellbeing.

• Income and Wealth - programmes under this pillar will aim to support black women and girls to increase income and wealth while also increasingly divorcing income from time exhaustive labour and activities.

• Safety, privacy and dignity - programming that address or mitigate the impact of lack of dignity, physical and psychological safety for black women and girls in work, education, and while engaging with public sector organisations.

• Well-being - accessible programmes that encourage and enable increased physical and psychological well-being at individual and collective levels.

What does the role involve:

You’ll be joining YS’ board to help get this organisation off the ground. Board members will participate in all areas of the charity’s governance and work with the founder to set the strategic direction of the charity in accordance with the governing document and regulatory guidelines. 

We want to create a diverse board of 5 with experience across the charity and private sectors. We would particularly welcome board members with experience conducting primary research, experience developing an organisational or divisional strategy, accounting or operations management experience, providing immigration related advice or services, managing corporate partnerships and/or with lived experience.

Why join the Studio:

• Develop your skills and experience in charity governance.

• Help launch an innovative charitable organisation getting right to the heart of the challenges people have been facing for a long time.

• Make a real and tangible impact.

We anticipate that trustees will be asked to hold office for one three year term initially. 

Please note this is a voluntary position.

How to apply: Please send your CV and a Covering Letter explaining your interest and suitability for the role by the listed closing date on this advert.

Fine Cell Work is looking for a Treasurer to join its Board of Trustees.  Fine Cell Work is a UK-based rehabilitation charity supporting prisoners and prison leavers to rebuild meaningful, independent, crime-free lives.  This is a wonderful opportunity for an experienced committed individual who is passionate about rehabilitation, mental health and beautiful craftsmanship. Fine Cell Work welcomes a wide range of applicants who are energetic, collaborative and committed to supporting the charity’s growth.  Critically, applicants should have an appreciation of the charity, prison or public sector and sympathy, empathy and passion for the charity’s ethos, vision and mission. Fine Cell Work is a logistically complex charity and so applicants should be able to demonstrate the appetite to learn and the experience and skills required to contribute well informed views, constructive challenge and a commitment to best practices while operating in a multi-faceted and challenging environment.

About Fine Cell Work

Fine Cell Work is a charity and social enterprise with a proven track record of reducing reoffending rates, producing beautiful products handmade in prison, and equipping prisoners post-release with the skills to aid their reintegration into society.  The prisoners’ high-quality, handmade products are sold to the public through our website .  Designers, artists and heritage organizations commission bespoke pieces of the highest quality and creativity.  The prisoners are paid about a quarter of the proceeds from sales and are encouraged to save for their families and to provision for their release. 

With a staff of 15 FTE supported by approximately 140 volunteers, the charity has annual revenues of over £1 million.  We currently have a presence in 19 British prisons.  Fine Cell Work is the only British charity providing social enterprise and earned income for prisoners working in their cells on such a wide scale and has created the largest workforce of hand-embroiderers in Europe.  The charity’s model is sustainable, with a quarter of its income derived from sales of prisoners’ work. 

In 2017, Fine Cell Work opened a textiles workshop in London providing employment support to prison leavers. This programme has been extremely successful, with a reoffending rate of 4% (against the national average of 46%) and 40% going into work (against the national average of 17%). 

Now entering our 28th year, Fine Cell Work continues to expand on our prison and post-release programmes, increasing the opportunities for rehabilitation by having more of a presence within the prison system.  Our plans include:

· Building our production hubs in partnership with textile workshops in prison, allowing us to further upskill the prison-trained workforce.

· Establishing additional prison groups teaching hand-stitching, enabling more prisoners to engage in meaningful work in their cells. 

· Continuing to develop varied, skilled textile products, adding new designs and product ranges to provide a wide range of work for our stitchers and products for our customers. 

· Expanding post-release support nationally.

The above activities, and more, form part of a robust, detailed 5 year business plan now in its third year of execution.

Role Specification

Fine Cell Work is managed by a Board of Trustees who are from a range of professional backgrounds, including design and the prison service but also marketing, finance, communications, business management and consulting, and volunteering.  We are looking for a new Trustee, based in the UK, to serve as Treasurer. 

The new Treasurer will help to steer the strategic direction and governance of the charity, as it focuses on the deployment of the business plan, charitable development and social enterprise. 

The general responsibilities of a Trustee include the following:

· Ensuring that Fine Cell Work has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and that these are fully reflected in all its work.

· Advocating for Fine Cell Work’s mission and, if possible, using their skills or contacts as appropriate to support Fine Cell Work’s work.

· Supporting Fine Cell Work’s fundraising initiatives, through engaging in fundraising events and inviting members of their network to events and making introductions.

· Engaging with and supporting Fine Cell Work’s Executive Director and senior leadership team in delivering against Fine Cell Work’s financial and social impact performance objectives.

· Ensuring that Fine Cell Work fulfils its legal requirements, including in respect of equal opportunities, safeguarding, meeting health and safety requirements and complying with its charitable objectives.

In terms of the specific duties of the Treasurer, these include:

· Regularly liaising with the Fine Cell Work Finance Director, who is responsible for the financial activities of the organisation

· Reviewing Fine Cell Work’s budgets, internal management accounts and financial statements and presenting them, with the Finance Director, to the Board of Trustees

· Leading in the Board’s duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and prudently spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements

· Providing Board oversight and support to the Finance Director in the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost management and investment policies

· Monitoring and advising on the financial viability of the charity and the financial implications of the charity’s business plans and strategies

· Providing Board oversight and support to the Finance Director on the charity’s risk management process

· Acting as the Board liaison with external auditors on technical and other matters

Person Specification

Fine Cell Work welcomes a wide range of applicants who are energetic, collaborative and committed to supporting the charity’s growth.  Critically, applicants should have an appreciation of the charity, prison or public sector and sympathy, empathy and passion for the charity’s ethos, vision and mission. 

Fine Cell Work is a logistically complex charity and so applicants should be able to demonstrate the appetite to learn and the experience and skills required to contribute well informed views, constructive challenge and a commitment to best practices while operating in a multi-faceted and challenging environment.

Specific to the role of Treasurer, we are interested in candidates with the following:

· Qualified accountant

· Experience working with a non-profit organization is desirable but we are open to those candidates who are willing to invest in growing the financial acumen specific to charities

· Experience in assessing, monitoring and developing plans to mitigate financial, operational and strategic organizational risks

· Understanding and acceptance of the duties and responsibilities of trusteeship and the role of Treasurer in particular 

Terms of appointment

This role is unremunerated.  There are four Board meetings each year, normally held on a Tuesday evening with two taking place in-person at Fine Cell Work’s offices in Battersea and two taking place virtually.  There is also one strategy meeting each year.  Ad hoc events include fundraising events and sales throughout the year.  The appointment is for a three year term, which can be renewed twice at the discretion of the Board.

Job description

We are looking for Volunteer Charity Retail Assistants who reside in the United Kingdom to assist in the running of WFRC’s retail shop to maximise sales of new and used goods that help us to generate vital funds to support the vital services that we provide for women and families. You will be providing invaluable help in the operation of our charity shop.

Principal Responsibilities:

To serve customers and record purchases on the cash register

To work with staff and other volunteers to sort, steam, hang, ticket and size donated clothing for sale in the shop.

To help keep the shop clean.

To assist with shop displays.

Provide information leaflets and signpost any enquiries for WFRC services

Comply with WFRC relevant Policies and Procedures

Wear personal identity badge whilst volunteering

Represent the professional standards of the charity

Key Skills & Abilities

An interest in the shop, and an enthusiasm for raising money through its work.

The ability to work as part of a team.

A flexible approach

Able to provide a friendly, high-quality service to customers

Basic numeracy

An understanding of the need for confidentiality

Good timekeeping

Reliability and trustworthiness

A willingness to undertake the training required for the role.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You just need the ability to listen, strong IT skills and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be the role for you, we’d love to hear from you. 

What is a Caseworker?

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of support they need. You will listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help those serving, who have served and their families to navigate life in and beyond military service. Some examples of support are securing funding for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit. Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. We’d love the general public to understand what we do and how they can help us.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical, and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but you can complete the administration part of the role from home as long as you have access to IT equipment and the internet.

What would you be doing?

• Contacting beneficiaries and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time.
• Meeting beneficiaries and completing a form to assess their circumstances, using good communication skills, empathy and understanding.
• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice.
• Applying for funding on the behalf of the beneficiary through a specific process and system. 
• Arranging for the purchase of goods and services.
• Keeping the beneficiary informed of their case progress.
• Liaise with the branch and regional office, regarding your availability.
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA.
• Adhering to SSAFAs policies and procedures at all times, including safeguarding, volunteering policy, equality, diversity and inclusion, health and safety, data protection and confidentiality. 

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker training, and caseworker IT system training. The caseworker training takes 3 days and a further half a day for the other training.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact.
• Regular opportunities to meet and share best practice with other caseworkers.
• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable with good listening skills, patience, and a positive attitude.
• Good communication skills both written and verbally.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Willingness and ability to use IT systems for initial and on-going training and to enter cases on the Casework Management System. Willingness and ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Ability to make enquires on behalf of beneficiaries by phone, email, letter or by filling in forms.
• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to friendship or giving advice.
• Reliable, prompt and trustworthy.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments with clients.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative).

Is a criminal record check required? Yes, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer. This role requires an enhanced check (including checks against the children and adults barred list).

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands, or other information may not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, where possible, a modified or alternative role will be offered. 

About our Welfare Benefits and Housing area

Our advice sessions cover a wide range of welfare and housing issues. Our experienced advisers offer support with housing benefits, illegal evictions, rent arrears and homelessness applications.

We provide support to navigate the UK’s welfare benefits system, including applications for support for long-term illnesses or disabilities, child benefits, Universal Credit and more. We challenge decisions made by public bodies through mandatory reconsiderations and make referrals to our trusted partners when needed.

About the Role

As the Welfare Advice Assistant, you will support the Welfare team through administrative and key tasks to maintain high-quality advice and casework services at IRMO.

This will be achieved via:

• Carrying out administrative follow-up tasks and email communication with users;

• Completing referrals to partners and external agencies;

• Data collection and monitoring on our CRM system.

Main tasks and responsibilities

• Sending users emails with advice notes, service feedback forms and information on IRMO’s services;

• Assist in tasks to complete cases and applications as identified by the welfare adviser;

• Collect and complete information and data on our CRM system;

• Completing internal referrals to other departments and services at IRMO;

• Referring users to other sources of help, for example, solicitors, social workers or special caseworkers, completing all necessary referral forms;

• Contacting users to record the outcomes of their cases;

• Flexibility to travel to 2 predetermined external locations in South London (one day per week).

We are looking for someone who is/has:

• Verbal and written communication skills in English and either Spanish and/or Portuguese; 

• A flexible and enthusiastic person who is confident in working in a multicultural and multilingual environment; 

• Good IT skills, including in using Microsoft and Google suite packages, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and databases; 

• Good interpersonal and communication skills and attention to detail;

• A caring, sensitive and non-judgemental manner;

• Knowledge of how to deal with sensitive and confidential information; 

• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to CRM systems.

Additional requirements

• Two references from current/previous employers;

• Basic DBS Check (completed through IRMO); 

• Safeguarding Level 1 certificate (completed through IRMO);

• One-month trial period. 

Benefits from volunteering at IRMO

• Allows helping others and giving back;

• Creates an ideal space to learn new skills in a multicultural, cooperative and inspiring environment;

• Get involved with the Latin American Community and increase knowledge of the situation of Latin American migrants in the UK;

• Helps to gain experience and strengthen previous skills to face the UK’s competitive job market;

• Enhance CV and get references (after 6 months) for further impact on the employment status;

• Participate in training sessions with high-quality learning outcomes (in-house and external) in areas related to the role; 

• Receive regular supervision and support.