Volunteer Trustees Volunteer Roles

This is an exciting opportunity to be a hands-on trustee at branch level, helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things.  With your expertise and support we will achieve so much! 

We need volunteers who have expertise in Legal and GDPR matters to help us manage the Branch effectively and within legal limitations. You will get new skills and experience whilst enabling us to help more animals. 

Overview of the Branch Trustee opportunity

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a legal background, who could devote their time to volunteer as a trustee at our Preston & District Branch and support us with GDPR compliance.

Alongside passing on your expertise, this opportunity will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental, alongside fellow trustees, in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.  As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a bi-monthly committee meeting lasting around 2 to 3 hours (virtual meetings are an option). However, the commitment may vary depending on your availability,  and if you decide to take on additional duties.Trustee do not need to live within the branch boundaries but occasional travel to Branch sites may be required from time to time.

About the National RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering. Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Preston & District Branch

Over 80% of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which are run by staff & volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

The Preston & District Branch is part of a network of  140  branches, and one of only 8 in the North of England with an animal centre. We are a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area and engaging with the local community. Our mission is to provide safe homes to abandoned, neglected or abused animals, to nurse them back to health, rehabilitate them and find them their forever home.

RSPCA Preston is a well established branch with approximately 20 members of staff and 75 volunteers across 4 locations. The main activity of our branch is providing a rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming centre within the Preston area (close to JCN 31 of the M6). To continue helping animals in need we also operate 3 charity shops in Longridge, Chorley and Penwortham which bring in a regular income to keep our animal centre open. 

Take a look at our website to see a little more about the work we do.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Legal and GDPR

• Assist the Branch in ensuring that activities are GDPR compliant and reviewing and updating the Branch processing activities register.
• Support the Branch in developing and updating Branch policies, particularly the Branch privacy notice and internal data protection policy, to make sure they are compliant.
• Support the Branch when liaising with external specialist providers such as HR and health and safety specialists. 
• The Branch may occasionally enter into new leases with regards to its charity shops; so, liaising with external specialists for advice if it does not fall under your area of expertise. 
• To assist the Branch when developing new schemes, such as providing welfare assistance to those on low incomes, to ensure any new schemes are GDPR compliant.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside legal and GDPR compliance experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action. 

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected at our AGM.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee

For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee, and to ensure it is the right decision for you there is some information on the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees, and we have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch! 

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

BRANCH TRUSTEE – MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA

Branch Trustee (Preston & District reg Charity No 232256)

This is an exciting opportunity to be a hands-on trustee at branch level, helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things. 

With your expertise and support we will achieve so much! 

We need volunteers who have expertise in Marketing and Social Media to help us maximise our revenue and increase engagement.

You will get new skills and experience whilst enabling us to help more animals. 

Overview of the Branch Trustee opportunity

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a background in marketing and social media, who could devote their time to volunteer as a trustee for our RSPCA Preston & District Branch and support us in boosting our campaigns online. 

Alongside passing on your expertise, this opportunity will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental, alongside fellow trustees, in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a bi-monthly committee meeting lasting around 2 to 3 hours (virtual meetings are an option). However, the commitment may vary depending on your availability,  and if  you decide to take on additional duties.

Trustee do not need to live within the branch boundaries but occasional travel to Branch sites may be required from time to time.

About the National RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

About the RSPCA Preston & District Branch

Over 80% of the animal welfare work of the RSPCA is carried out through local Branches which are run by staff and volunteers, supported by the RSPCA National Society.

Preston & District Branch has been affiliated with the National RSPCA for 150 years!

A separately registered charity looking after animals in the local area and engaging with the local community. 

Our mission is to seek out safe homes for abandoned, neglected or abused animals who are  nursed back to health, rehabilitated and found forever loving homes.

Preston & District Branch is part of a network of 140  branches, and 1 of only 8 in the North of England with an animal centre. 

The rehoming centre is within the Preston area (close to JCN 31 of the M6). 

RSPCA Preston & District Branch is a well established Branch with approximately 20 members of staff and 75 volunteers across 4 locations and raises all its funds locally through supporters and other income streams.

To continue helping animals in need the Branch also operates 3 charity shops in Longridge, Chorley and Penwortham (within our specified branch area) which bring in a regular income to keep our animal centre open. 

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Marketing and Social Media

• Take the lead in assisting the Branch to generate and develop social media strategies to maximise the promotion of animal welfare, rehoming campaigns, fundraising opportunities, and engagement with local supporters.
• Support the Branch in using social media effectively and working within the social media strategy. 
• Support the Branch in ensuring any social media or marketing content is in line with RSPCA brand guidelines. 
• Responsible for feeding back key insights and performance markers to the rest of the committee at board meetings. 
• Support the Branch in promoting animal welfare campaigns and events using various digital media platforms.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA. 
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

• Ideally you would have some level of knowledge in the following areas- finance, legal, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and/or charity legislation. These all can be useful to help ensure we have a sound and robust business model and long term strategic development plan, however, they are not essential.
• We are looking for people who are creative, innovative, who have experience of or are part of groups and communities we want to attract, who can bring new ideas, different experiences and fresh perspectives to the board and to help put those ideas into action. 
• We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.
• Ultimately we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. 
• You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

About the opportunity

We are seeking committed vegetarians and vegans to join our volunteer board of trustees.

Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is the only UK charity specifically dedicated to supporting older vegetarians and vegans. If you share our belief that all older people should be enabled to maintain their chosen diet and lifestyle, have access to trusted information on healthy eating and rights, and enjoy good quality food wherever they live, this role may be of interest to you.

Our trustees work with the CEO of VfL and its operational team to ensure good governance and realise the strategic aims and development of this unique charity. VfL has experienced sustained growth and impact since it was formed in 2007 and is highly respected for the breadth and quality of its work across care, advocacy, and catering sectors.

We are a small board who regularly review skills and experience across our membership to ensure we optimise our effectiveness in supporting the charity. In anticipation of members completing their tenure in 2025, including our present chair/vice-chair, we seek new trustees to sustain VfL’s success and progress in the years ahead. While interested in diverse backgrounds, we would be especially keen to hear from those with specific experience in any of the following:

• Working in health, nutrition, social care relating to older people (voluntary or statutory sector).
• Previous or existing role as trustee of a charity or organisation connected to supporting older people.
• Roles relating to capacity building or business development.

The role of trustee is a voluntary one although expenses are paid when incurred in connection with the role. The board meets quarterly, mainly via video conferencing but with at least one meeting a year in Manchester where VfL is based. Full board meetings are held on a Saturday. Some communications occur between meetings (usually by WhatsApp or email) and occasionally additional (short) meetings are required to make decisions timeously – these will always be scheduled by arrangement with members.

To be considered for this role 

You should have the skills and experience outlined above and be committed to the aims of VfL. You should be able to articulate the contribution you believe you can make to furthering these aims.

Our Vision for 2025

Business Development

• 1 in 6 UK care homes will be a member of VfL’s UK List. 1 in 100 will be VfL accredited. The first port-of-call for help and advice for those supporting older veg*ns.

Research and Policy

• A key voice in the 'choice and dignity' debate about care homes and their residents.

Supporter Services

• Responsive to the wishes, hopes and aspirations of all veg*ns in later life across the UK. Their first port-of-call for help and advice. Actively supporting the trends for reduction in meat consumption across all age groups.

To apply 
Please send a covering letter along with a CV of no more than 2 pages FAO Chair, Dr Barbara Sharp. We usually offer an informal chat about the role to applicants in the first instance prior to a formal recruitment process including interview.

Location: Remote 

Commitment: Part-time, flexible (estimated 3-5 hours per week) 

Reports to: Medical Liaison , Joy Mason

Duration: Ongoing 

About Mast Cell Action

Mast Cell Action provides support for people living with MCAS, unites the MCAS community and creates a cohesive voice; to lobby for awareness, universally available diagnosis and the best possible care for those affected.

Mast Cell Action currently has 4 trustees plus a small but dedicated support team and our Director who will work closely with the successful candidate to strengthen our communications function. This is an exciting time for the charity, with unprecedented growth and an expanding team giving the right candidate unending potential to prove themselves and to shape the role.

We are a close-knit group, our internal behaviours are to be smart, strategic and ambitious, fun, collaborative and empowered. We work in collaboration both internally and externally and support each other to be the best that we can be and make the biggest possible difference to people affected by MCAS. If this sounds like a team you would like to be part of we would love to hear from you!

Role Overview

As the Volunteer Bibliography Coordinator, you will be integral in maintaining an up-to-date and comprehensive bibliography of scientific and medical papers related to MCAS. This vital role supports our research initiatives, enabling both patients and healthcare professionals to access the latest and most relevant information. Your contributions will directly influence the work of our charity and the understanding of MCAS across the medical community.

Key Responsibilities

• Research & Update Bibliography: Regularly identify new medical papers, studies, and articles on Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and related conditions.
• Document Management: Organise and update the existing bibliography, ensuring correct citations and categorisation.
• Literature Reviews: Summarise key papers and highlight significant findings that inform MCAS research or patient care.
• Database Maintenance: Maintain a user-friendly bibliography accessible to internal staff, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders.
• Website Updates: Ensure the bibliography section of our website reflects the latest research.
• Support Evidencing: Assist in providing relevant research papers to support the production of information within the charity.

Skills and Experience

• Research Skills: Experience in academic or medical research, with a knack for finding, evaluating, and organizing scientific literature.
• Attention to Detail: Excellent organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail when managing citations.
• Familiarity with Medical Literature: Knowledge of research databases like PubMed or Google Scholar is a plus.
• Communication: Strong written communication skills for summarising findings.
• Self-Motivated: Able to work independently and efficiently with minimal supervision.
• Commitment to the Cause: A passion for medical research, healthcare, or Mast Cell Activation Syndrome is beneficial, though not required.

Benefits

• Contribute to meaningful research that can improve the lives of individuals with MCAS.
• Gain experience in a charitable Charity dedicated to medical research and advocacy.
• Flexible working hours and the opportunity to work remotely.

Mast Cell Action is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for this volunteer position without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.

The Let’s Play Project is a highly regarded and professionally run charity in Banbury, Oxfordshire, that provides play and leisure opportunities to disabled young people between the ages of 5 and 25. We are looking for a Treasurer to join our board of trustees who all unpaid volunteers.

We meet 4 times a year as a Board and undertake a broad range of projects (big and small) in the interim. You will also be chairing a Finance subcommittee that meets to regularly to focus on details of the charity finances.

Come and meet us, let us share our vision and aspirations - and we guarantee there will be plenty of fun and challenges but equally you will feel how your input makes a difference in the lives of our young people and their families. 

The Events Officer is responsible for planning and executing events that promote awareness, inclusion, and support for the LGBTQ+ Muslim community. They ensure that all activities are thoughtfully designed to create safe spaces for connection, advocacy, and empowerment.

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Organise 3 in-person flagship events per year, ensuring all events align with Hidayah’s pillars of Care, Connect, Growth
• Oversee online/virtual events, including virtual Discord game nights and online Queer Book Club
• Supervising Events volunteers to deliver events
• Liaising closely with the Digital (Social Media and IT) team for events promotion
• Gathering post-event feedback (content, accessibility and tools)
• Updating contact/partner database
• Collaborating with the US Programmes Trustee to ensure that the Global Event Diary is aligned
• Attend monthly Board meetings and annual Strategy Day
• Update the Hidayah UK Trustee Board on the events calendar

Essential Experience:

• Working in a team but also independently with minimal supervision
• Organisation and time management skills
• Leadership and the ability to line manage volunteers
• Ability to competently use Google Suite and Google Meet or equivalent (e.g. Microsoft/Zoom)
• Ability to use or willingness to learn Discord and OutSavvy (ideally experience using equivalents e.g. group messaging and event management platforms)
• Teamwork and collaboration with other individuals and organisations
• Budget management
• Ability to plan on a long- and short-term basis
• Strong communication
• Understanding confidentiality, equality and diversity and safeguarding procedures
• Ability to respond to resolving conflict situations if needed
• Good understanding of queer Muslim community and the needs of service users
• Commitment to supporting and promoting the aims, vision and mission of Hidayah

As a Front Desk Volunteer, you will be the welcoming face of Historic Croydon Airport, responsible for ensuring visitors have a smooth and enjoyable experience. You will manage visitor check-ins, handle donations, and support merchandising activities. 

Responsibilities: 

Reception Duties: 

1. Visitor Reception: 

• Greet visitors warmly at the front door or Reception desk. 

• Check if visitors have pre-booked and verify booking details. 

• Keep the Reception Desk attended at all times. 

1. Booking Management: 

• Obtain booking sheets from Graeme and update them throughout the day. 

• Set out and supervise the donation box. 

• Maintain a supply of hand sanitisers, leaflets, and other materials. 

• Re-stock leaflet holders in the Main Entrance lobby. 

1. Visitor Handling Procedures: People with a Booking: 

• Check the Lead Name off the booking list and confirm the number of visitors in the group. 

• Request a donation of £8 per adult on entry, payable by cash, credit card, cheque (to Historic Croydon Airport Trust), or QR code. 

• Ensure the donation process is completed. 

• Inform visitors of the location of toilets and answer any questions. 

• Ask visitors to wait in the Waiting Area until their Guide collects them. 

• Manage additional visitors, ensuring tour groups do not exceed 12 people, including the Tour Guide. 

People without a Booking: 

• Politely inform visitors that entry is by pre-booking online. 

• Check the booking list for vacant slots and inform visitors of available times and spaces. 

• Advise visitors to book and return at the specified time, noting they cannot wait inside AH. 

• Allow visitors to wait outside for potential "no-shows" if they wish. 

• Be polite, sympathetic, but firm if turning people away, and provide the date of the next Open Day and booking details. 

• Seek assistance from Graeme or Mike if needed. 

1. Visitor Departure: 

• Thank visitors for coming and say goodbye. 

• Encourage visitors to review their experience on Tripadvisor (Croydon Airport Visitor Centre). 

Merchandising Duties: 

1. Merchandise Stall Management: 

• Set up and take down the HCAT Merchandise stall. 

• Retrieve and replace sale items from/to the cupboards under the model in Reception. 

• Run the merchandise stall, selling items to visitors. 

1. Cash Handling: 

• Manage the float, monetary takings, cashing up, and recording total takings at the end of the day. 

• Ensure cash takings are not left unattended and hand them over to a Trustee at the end of the day. 

1. Stock Monitoring: 

• Monitor stock levels and advise Jeff if stocks are running low. 

Qualifications: 

• Friendly and welcoming demeanor. 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to manage bookings and handle donations accurately. 

• Experience in handling cash and managing merchandise sales. 

• Punctual, reliable, and able to adhere to procedures. 

• Commitment to providing a respectful and inclusive experience for all visitors. 

Training: Volunteers will receive an induction, including a review of booking procedures, handling donations, and merchandise management. Ongoing training sessions and resources will be provided to support the role. 

Benefits: 

• Be the welcoming face of Historic Croydon Airport. 

• Gain experience in visitor management and merchandising. 

• Contribute to the educational and cultural enrichment of the community. 

• Be part of a supportive and passionate team. 

Application Process: If you enjoy engaging with the public and are enthusiastic about history, we would love to hear from you. 

Why join us? Make-A-Wish UK brings amazing people together to grant inspirational, life-changing wishes for children with critical conditions. We work with wish children, their families, and medical teams to make unforgettable wishes a reality – like a child getting to be a princess in their own castle, cooking with their favourite celebrity chef, and even becoming a Ghostbuster to save the city of Leeds!

Join our volunteering community now and make a lasting difference by donating your time to grant wishes – it’s honestly one of the most magical experiences you’ll ever have!

Why We Need Your Help We are granting a record number of wishes, providing families with a precious opportunity to rescue the magic of childhood as quickly as we can. But demand for wishes is far outpacing our best efforts to keep up, so it’s taking longer than ever to grant wishes to children and families who are facing some of their toughest and most relentless times together.

By volunteering, you have the power to make a wish come true for a critically ill child, allowing families to create lasting memories to treasure forever – no matter what the future holds.

What you will be doing With the demand for wishes being so high, we urgently need to generate vital support to help us to say yes to every eligible child, and that’s where you come in! Once our expert team of Wishgranters have designed a child’s magical wish, we need your time, skills, passion and energy to bring that wish to life and make it a reality!

We need Wish Makers across the UK to help us to:

• Research and reach out to local companies, telling them about the children that are waiting for their wishes right now in their region and asking them to donate their services and goods such as a limousine ride or a hotel stay so that a local child’s wish can come true.
• Rally and inspire your community to raise funds to help pay for the rising cost of wishes, meaning that more children can have their wishes granted in as short a timescale as possible, and they can be part of making that magic happen!
• Work as a team with your fellow local volunteers to organise fundraising events such as balls, school sports days, workplace fundraisers etc that will enable more children to have their magical wishes granted by raising vital funds
• Arrange and deliver special gifts in the run up to the wish to add to the excitement and anticipation for the child and their family, and support with the collection and delivery of local donations for the wish itself, which range from princess costumes to balloons!
• Identify local businesses, community groups and organisations who would be willing to support Make-A-Wish UK and help children waiting in your local region.
• Apply for local funding/Charity of the Year opportunities such as supermarket charity opportunities, local council Mayor’s charities etc that could help to grant more local wishes and be part of something special in your community
• Support our wish families on the day of the wish itself, ensuring everything goes smoothly and everyone involved has a magical experience

The skills you need It truly does take a community of people to grant a wish, and we are looking for special people who want to become part of building these communities around the children that are waiting right now for their wishes to be granted. If this sounds like you, then we would love to hear from you!

• Confident in approaching a wide range of different people, groups and organisations to ask for donations/support; in person, by phone and through email
• Warm, friendly and comfortable interacting with others to create the best experience possible, representing our wish children and their families to make communities feel part of our local mission
• Organised and able to think on their feet if needed; able to be pro-active to identify and develop opportunities in their local community
• Confident speaking about our mission in person and/or online and able to adapt to different audience needs
• A basic level of IT skills are essential for this role, and you will also need access to either a computer or smartphone/device
• A commitment to our behaviours and values, always with our wish families at the heart of all you do as a volunteer

What's in it for you We think that volunteering at Make-A-Wish UK is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, as you get to make actual magical wishes come true! But if that’s not enough, here are a few more of the wonderful benefits of donating your time:

• You’ll get active in your local community with some of our other wonderful volunteers – both in person and online
• You’ll be helping local wish families by bringing a child’s unique wish to life through all stages of the wish journey.
• You’ll develop new skills and gain new experiences whilst building new relationships with a diverse range of like-minded wonderful people
• You’ll participate in an interactive and engaging learning and development programme, that fits in around you and your life
• We will help you to build emotional resilience, and increase your levels of wellbeing and self-esteem using our wellness platform and recognition programme
• You’ll have access our volunteer app where you can connect with both Make-A-Wish UK Employees and volunteers across the UK, stay up to date with the latest wishes being granted, sign up for events and activities and access handy resources and training documents

Please note that this is an unpaid volunteer role.

Disclaimer Make-A-Wish is committed to attracting and recruiting diverse candidates as it’s important that our trustees, employees, ambassadors and volunteers reflect the communities we serve at every level within the organisation. The organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all volunteers to share this commitment. The relevant disclosure check will be requested where required.

Tender works first and foremost with young people, meaning our work is always varied and constantly evolving. We are therefore lucky to receive the support and guidance from our Youth Board, who meet monthly to develop Tender’s activities and direction, and explore innovative ways of engaging young people in a way that stays relevant to them. 
 

What is the Tender Youth Board?
 

Tender’s Youth Board is an advisory group that supports the on-going development and delivery of Tender’s work. As a youth-based organisation, the board play a vital role in guiding how we engage young people in conversations around healthy relationships, domestic abuse and sexual violence, and promote the issue to wider society. We do this by getting young people to work closely with members from every department of the Tender team and its Board of Trustees. 
 

The Youth Board support Tender’s work by:  
 

• Developing and delivering awareness raising campaigns and blogs 
• Contributing ideas for projects and resources  
• Reviewing Tender’s activities that are used in workshops with young people 
• Discussing current events and policy happening in the Violence Against Women and Girls sector 
• Contributing to Tender’s recruitment processes 
• Reviewing bids that Tender submit to funders for new work 

Time Expectations 
 

We ask our Youth Board members for a commitment to volunteering for a minimum of 6 hours every three months. The ways members can engage are listed below: 
 

• Meetings will be typically held twice a month on Wednesday, 5:50 – 6:30pm. It is important that you can attend the majority of these online meetings. 
• Twice per year, in March and October, a meeting is held in person at Tender’s London office – travel and food expenses are covered. 
• Volunteering time at public events to promote Tender’s cause, such as panels or fresher’s fairs. 
• Carrying out other tasks that come up outside meetings, such as blog writing, or being on steering groups for specific projects.  
• Engaging with flexible work experience opportunities in various teams across the charity. 

At Tender we also understand that schedules can change, and other responsibilities can get in the way of volunteering sometimes, so if you are unable to meet this requirement, we can have a chat with you and look at next steps together. For some, this might mean arranging other volunteering tasks that can be completed remotely or making a flexible arrangement.  
 

How we support you 
 

Three members of the Tender team support the Youth Board by running the interactive and creative meetings, and planning  the year’s activities. They will be available during your time on the Youth Board to ensure you get the most out of volunteering with us. 
 

At Tender we believe in the importance of giving back to those who volunteer their time with us. You will be given a full induction to the Youth Board so that you understand our work and your role as a Youth Board member. As an active member of the youth board, you will be offered opportunities and rewards, such as:  
 

• Free masterclasses from external organisations (topics have included: working with children and young people, facilitation, drama, domestic and sexual violence prevention, and more!) 
• Free training sessions  
• Free tickets to theatre productions, exhibitions and other public events 
• Opportunities to build your CV through campaigning, masterclasses, events and work experience. 

To make sure we’re supporting our Youth Board members, we carry out a survey of new members to better understand what you wish to gain from the Youth Board, and endeavour to offer opportunities to develop in ways that will support your future plans and ambitions. This could even include working at Tender – a number of our employees started their journeys at Tender on the Youth Board! 

Join Sculpt as a Youth Advisory Board Member!

 

About us

Sculpt is a UK-based charity providing research, training and work-experience opportunities that empower young people to shape their own futures and those of their communities. As the role of young people in the organisation is crucial, we have an independent Youth Advisory Board (YAB) that evaluates and steers our work. The YAB consists of young people from different backgrounds and experiences who are aware of the problems facing young people today and want to do something positive about them.

About the Youth Advisory Board

Sculpt’s YAB is a group of passionate young people with a keen interest in youth issues who bring their insight and voice to the issues we work on. Their role is to constantly review, monitor, and quality control our work in order to ensure it remains youth–led and effective. 

Members of the YAB support us by:

• Providing a voice, ideas and insight to help ensure our work is relevant to the needs of young people

• Working together to advise and provide insights on social issues from a variety of perspectives

• Applying their life experiences in the development of socially positive causes

• Problem-solving and evaluating existing decision-making to refine ideas and initiatives

• Helping us raise awareness of our work among other young people

What we can offer you:

• Valuable volunteering experience and a chance to work as a collective team to do rewarding work 

• Chance to develop a variety of highly transferable skills, from leadership and decision-making, to conflict management, communication and more

• Opportunity to gain valuable insight into how a charity is run and to engage with a diverse team of professionals, the CEO and board of trustees 

• Learn about a variety of different societally impactful projects

• Opportunity to represent Sculpt at conferences and events  

If you are interested in the problems facing young people, joining Sculpt’s YAB is a great way to gain experience volunteering in an advisory role at an NGO, as well as to influence the work we do. 

Current YAB team: 

We currently have six YAB members. Within this, we have a Chair of the YAB, Vice chair of the YAB, and 4 general members. 

What would I do? 

The YAB meets monthly to discuss Sculpt’s current work and projects, as well as hear about the different opportunities available to Advisory Board members. An agenda is prepared and shared in advance. Meetings are usually held online but we sometimes meet in person. 

As a member of the YAB, you will gain first-hand experience of being part of a youth-led organisation. From providing input into and evaluating our programmes, to designing new campaign and social media ideas, you will have the opportunity to develop your written and communication skills and shape what we do to serve young people. All training offered by Sculpt is open and free to Advisory Board members. Please note that being a YAB member is a volunteer role. 

 

Travel expenses for in-person meetings are reimbursed, and we make adjustments where needed to remove barriers to participation. This can include providing support/ assistance for online participation or covering the costs of a personal assistant/carer or interpreter/translator if YAB members use one, for example. 

About the open roles

We are currently hiring for YAB General Members. Please read the role description below to determine if it will fit your interests and experiences. However, please do not be discouraged from applying if you have limited prior work experience or knowledge in these areas. We are most interested in finding candidates who are passionate about our work and are eager to learn.

YAB General Member

As a YAB General Member, you will ensure that Sculpt pursues its organisational objectives, provide strategic direction to the organisation’s work, and attend meetings and prepare for them in advance if needed. There will be opportunities to get involved in various areas of our work across fundraising, programme design and evaluation, policies, communications, and social media. 

The Sculpt team will help facilitate the collaboration with the YAB and bring you opportunities to contribute to. At the same time, we are always open to hear your thoughts and advice on how we can continue being effective and responsive. You will be well-supported by us, other YAB members, and the YAB Chair. 

How to apply

We can’t wait to receive your application and learn more about you! Please make sure to include:

●  A short CV (max. one A4 page)

●  A cover letter explaining your interest in the position – this is more important than having prior experience! (max. one A4 page) 

Upon successful appointment, two character references will be requested. These do not have to be from previous employers. We want to hear from someone who knows you and can speak to your character and abilities.

Sculpt is an inclusive organisation and we embrace diversity because we know that bringing together people with different experiences, perspectives and backgrounds will lead to even greater results for young people. We encourage applications from young people from all backgrounds, identities and lived experiences including those who are LGBTQIA+, Black, Asian or another minority ethnicity, disabled, young carers, refugees, and from low-income backgrounds.

The application deadline is 8th of December 2024.

We look forward to hearing from you!  

Spotlight YOPD are looking for a volunteer Administration Assistant to assist with the efficient functioning of the charity by maintaining workplace functions and handling administrative tasks on behalf of the Executive team.

SECRETARY ROLE  

Duties

 The secretary should:

• Receive agenda items from other trustees/staff
• Prepare agendas in consultation with the chair and Managing Director
• Circulate agendas and supporting papers in good time
• Managing the petty cash, co-signatory to bank account, making purchases as and when required
• Member of the board of directors
• Make arrangements for meetings:
  • Booking the room
  • Equipment
  • Refreshments
  • Facilities for those with special needs
• Check that a quorum is present
• Minute the meetings and circulating the draft minutes to all trustees
• Ensure that the minutes are signed by the chair once they have been approved
• Check that trustees and staff have carried out action agreed at a previous meeting
• Circulate agendas and minutes of the annual general meeting and any special or extraordinary general meetings
• Acts as a frontline coordinator to our workshop projects by taking calls from potential participants, sending out google forms, weekly reminders and arranging 1:1 online meetings on zoom.
• Sit on appraisal, recruitment and disciplinary panels as required

Secretary person specification

• Commitment to the organisation
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Strategic vision
• Good, independent judgement
• Ability to think creatively
• Willingness to speak their mind
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship and, if applicable, being a Company Secretary
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Nolan's seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership
• Organisational ability
• Knowledge or experience of business and committee procedures
• Minute-taking experience, if this is not being delegated to staff
  
  

What we can offer you:

• We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture.
• • Flexible/Agile Working, Hourly pay rate during the workshops on a Contract/ Self-Employed basis.

• Employee Assistance Program to support employees both professionally and personally.

PFP is a UK-based charity working in Africa and Asia since 2004, and this year we are celebrating our 20th anniversary. Our Mission is to work together with local people and filmmakers to produce, distribute and show local language educational films that give help and hope to vulnerable and disadvantaged communities. Our latest activities have primarily focused on Malawi, Sierra Leone and Kenya. 

Every PFP film seeks to bring about positive change by engaging audiences with themes, characters and subjects that address important challenges facing themselves and their communities.

-  We commission, fund and manage film productions

-  We train and mentor local film makers

-  We partner with other organisations to produce media for their charitable objectives

-  We organise film distribution and viewings and promote digital engagement

-  We facilitate audience conversations to encourage deeper exploration of issues

-  We measure the impact of our films to ensure continued improvement

We produce a range of media from short documentaries and music videos to full-length feature dramas. Our work covers a wide range of subjects, including: health, disability and rights; social prejudice and stigma; agriculture; and environment and conservation.

See our Annual Reports on our website for more information on our work and recent activities. 

Primary responsibilities

 - Attend and contribute to quarterly Board meetings and work with the Directors and Trustees in advancing PFP’s vision, mission, and strategic goals.

- Develop and deliver PFP’s fundraising strategy. This includes the drafting of grant applications, developing relationships with large corporates and key donors, and supporting our team and supporters with fundraising activities.

- Contribute to the effective governance of PFP, including: ensuring PFP is accountable and carrying out its purpose for public benefit; ensuring compliance with the governing document and applicable law; and challenging the management of resources and ensuring financial stability.

Key Requirements

 - Strong relationship skills and proven track record of cultivating positive relationships

- Self-motivated and proactive

- Strong commitment to PFP’s purpose and values

Our mission is to help and support homeless and vulnerably housed people in and around the London Borough of Merton. We operate a twice-weekly Drop-in, currently welcoming 50-60 individuals each day, while our Winter Night Shelter provides a warm, dry place to sleep every night during the coldest nights of the year – this winter from 4 December until 10 March 2024.

Our current Secretary is retiring, having completed the maximum of nine years in the role. We’re now looking for an enthusiastic and committed volunteer for the role which covers the following positions:

1. Company secretary
2. Secretary to the Trustees

The current incumbent fulfils both roles but we would consider splitting the responsibilities if two complementary applications were received.

The Company Secretary & Secretary is a volunteer with an active role in the work of the organisation. The Faith in Action Merton Homelessness Project (FIAMHP) Board of Trustees, Company Secretary & Secretary, together with senior staff, form the Management Committee of the Charity.

Company Secretary’s responsibilities:

The Company Secretary keeps the organisation legal by:

• Working with Trustees to ensure that the Charity complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, company law, employment law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

• Ensuring that the Trustees are aware of the requirement to comply with relevant codes such as the Code of Conduct for Charity Trustees and the Charities Governance Code, and that these are adhered to.

• Ensuring that the Articles of Association reflect the current work of the Charity, liaising with the Charity Commission and Companies House as appropriate if an update is needed.

• Liaison with Treasurer as needed.

• Filing annual Confirmation Statements and other Company Returns including the annual Trustees Report & Accounts with Companies House and the Charity Commission by the due dates.

• Advising Companies House and the Charity Commission of changes to Company and Charity details by the due dates – this includes Trustee appointments and resignations.

• Maintaining the statutory records.

• Monitoring the composition of the Trustee board, and liaising with the Chair and other Trustees to ensure that new Trustees are recruited as necessary, so that all roles needed are covered. Organising new Trustee applications and interviews, and obtaining references.

• Organising and running the Annual General Meeting, and any other General Meetings required.

• Any other duties which may reasonably arise.

Secretary’s duties

The job of the FIAMHP Secretary is to assist the Trustees in the smooth running of the organisation by:

• Organising Management Committee meetings in consultation with the Chair and other Trustees: setting meeting dates and venues; producing meeting agendas, receiving and sending out meeting notices and papers, checking that meetings are quorate, taking meeting minutes, liaising with the Chair and other Trustees as necessary; sending out draft minutes.

• Assist with liaison between Trustees, Staff and Volunteers as needed.

• Awareness of the work of the organisation and the needs of its guests and service users.

• Ensuring that decisions and actions of the Board of Trustees are accurately recorded and implemented.

• Maintaining an appropriate and secure filing system so that all Trustee papers are retained and accessible.

• Assisting with Business Plan development and the Trustees’ Annual Report as required.

• Ensuring that Policies and Risk Register are filed and accessible to all who need access.

• Tracking progress with implementation of the organisation’s Business Plan.

• Ensuring that any correspondence for Trustees is brought to the attention of the Board.

• Any other duties which may reasonably arise.

The Company Secretary and Secretary must have:

● Commitment to the Charity and its work.

● Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of being a Company Secretary

● Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as Company Secretary and Secretary

● Strategic vision

● Good independent judgement

● Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.

For more information about either post, please contact Bernie McAlister, Chair of Trustees.