Volunteer roles

Do you want to gain professional writing skills and have your named work viewed by thousands? Do you have a passion for great literature or fine art or classical or contemporary music or history or archaeology or something else in the humanities? Do you love to learn about other cultures, their cuisine, customs and language? Do you want to join a vibrant community of writers? Then write for us!

The Cultural Me is a platform for arts and culture with a focus on discovering practical solutions for mental wellbeing, leisure and travel.

We are looking for writers to research and write micro-articles (roughly 750 words), on selected subjects, for example, a piece on Tolstoy, or Early Renaissance to Contemporary Art, or Latin American magic realism to Postcolonial Literature, or Sri Lankan culture, or Beethoven, or Film... You will also be involved in editing contributions from other writers.

If you have never written professionally before, then don't worry: all we ask for is a Bachelor’s Degree in the Arts and Humanities. We are also happy to consider you if you have alternative qualifications — provided you can demonstrate specialist subject matter knowledge in one or more areas in the arts and culture (and you love reading). The articles we produce (unlike popular media) are to the best academic standards. The ideal person, therefore, should enjoy writing articles that are well-researched yet written in an accessible format suitable for the public at large.

Here is what you can expect from us in return for your voluntary work:

• Detailed and friendly, one-to-one editorial feedback on almost every line you write.
• How to write for a busy mainstream reader: developing a story.
• A language and style guide reflecting modern trends in mainstream media.
• The chance to develop a deeper understanding of the arts, history, philosophy...
• Publication of your work to a global audience on a fast-growing platform.
• A link to your writing portfolio to include in your CV.
• A chance to join our diverse community of writers in our active chat space with the option to contribute to our growing social feed on the Cultural Me website.

In addition, if you provide The Cultural Me as a reference for a potential job, we will provide a personalised reference based on your portfolio. Our writers have secured jobs with organisations such as the Red Cross, Kobalt Music, Oxford University Museums, amongst others.

This is a brilliant opportunity for someone with a passion for the arts and culture to join a community on a worthy mission. If you love the idea, then please email Emma by clicking on ‘Apply’ and writing a short cover letter explaining what you like about the role.

COMMENTS FROM OUR WRITERS

Claire Woods — MA Creative Writing, Open University

‘The editors have a keen eye for detail, and I’m learning so much already!’

Florence Gildea — MPhil Sociology, University of Cambridge

‘The level of support, the attention to detail and the encouragement I experienced while writing for The Cultural Me was absolutely unprecedented in all my years of writing. Editing is an underappreciated skill these days, as people are keen to publish content as quickly as possible. It is a testament to the commitment of the Editors at The Cultural Me for producing resources of the highest quality that they put so much time and effort into working with writers like me. I felt both stretched and valued.’

Zoe Willis — BA French and German, University of Bristol

‘Working on The Cultural Me micro-articles really made me interrogate what I was writing, making sure the subject was absolutely clear for those reading it. At university, you are never told to examine each sentence as to how it fits in with your argument.’

Elise Czyzowska — BA English Literature & Language, University of Oxford

‘Writing for The Cultural Me has allowed me to continue practising my analytical reading from university, and given me the opportunity to share my thoughts on the literature I know and love.’

Nicholas Benton — BA English Literature, University of Sheffield

‘The Cultural Me provided me with a detailed commendatory reference that helped me secure a place on a master’s degree at the University of Birmingham.’

Tom Mackinnon — BA History of Art, University of Cambridge

‘Since starting to write for The Cultural Me, I’ve actually learned a lot about writing for mainstream readers. At the same time, I really enjoy being able to keep in touch with the topics I love. I do recommend this experience to anyone wanting to pursue a career in writing, curation or education.’

SAMPLE MICRO-ARTICLES

Please see the attachment.

SAMPLE WRITER PROFILES

Deepa — https://thecultural.me/people/Deepa-Srivastava-109829

Elizabeth — https://thecultural.me/people/Elizabeth-Hopkins-109782

Rami — https://thecultural.me/people/Rami-Barhoumi-109470

Gemma —  https://thecultural.me/people/Gemma-Unyereno-109538

Belinda —  https://thecultural.me/people/Belinda-Robinson-109600

Josef — https://thecultural.me/people/Josef-Steen-109610

What is the Access Advisory Group?

We want to be able to share the Royal Air Force (RAF) story with everyone, including those living with all kinds of disability, visible or hidden. Our Access Advisory Group is a group of volunteers who meet to support and advise the RAF Museum to ensure access for all. Examples of previous areas of group input include new exhibitions to commemorate the centenary of the RAF and the access information available on our website.

What will I be doing?

• Attending meetings a few times a year, which you can opt to attend either online or on site,

• Giving the Museum your opinion and advice on matters relating to access,

• Contributing to tangible improvements and changes at RAF Museum London.

This role is perfect for you if you…

• Live/have lived with a disability or have an understanding of living with a disability, or live with dementia or are supporting/have supported someone living with dementia,

• Have an interest in museums and a commitment to making museums accessible,

• Have the ability and willingness to use your experience to help us improve access throughout the Museum,

• Are committed to attending three meetings per year either online or at the RAF Museum in Hendon.

How much time would I need to commit?

The group meets three times per year (on dates agreed in advance). You can opt to attend on site or online. Meetings last for approximately two hours and are usually held during Museum opening times (10am – 5pm). We may also send occasional emails asking for advice and opinions.

It is expected that the next meeting will take place in mid to late June 2024. Generally meetings are held every four months. Our address in London is Grahame Park Way, NW9 5LL.

The Northern Devon Branch are in need of new committee members and specifically a Branch Secretary. 

The committee plan and coordinate various activities for people affected by Parkinson's across a wide area of North Devon. Activities range from exercise to social get togethers, coffee mornings and trips.

Committee members are expected to try and attend monthly meetings in the Bideford area and to contribute to group discussion and decision making. 

The secretary role entails communicating details of planned activities with our members via email or post and providing communication and admin support to the Chair of the branch. Other committee members manage the newsletter, memberships, social media and meeting agenda and minutes so this is not an extensive role but it is important and keeps members up to date with activities and any notices.

You will be volunteering as part of a team for Parkinson's UK and will be supported by a local staff contact and the rest of the committee. 

If you are interested in giving something back in your local community and supporting the lives of people affected by Parkinson's we would really love to hear from you. 

Location: Remote
Duration: Minimum 6 months

About Us

Children With Voices is a vibrant community charity based in Hackney, working to empower children, young people, and families through health, wellbeing, and educational programmes. Volunteers play a key role in driving our mission forward, and we’re now looking for someone to help us strengthen the backbone of our organisation—our policies.

The Role

We’re seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Volunteer Policy Development Officer to support the creation, improvement, and maintenance of our charity’s internal policies. This role is perfect for someone with experience in HR, legal compliance, policy writing, or charity governance, who wants to make a lasting difference in a growing community organisation.

Responsibilities

• Develop new policies relevant to charity operations, volunteers, safeguarding, health & safety, GDPR, and more.

• Review existing policies and update them to reflect current legal requirements and best practice.

• Collaborate with the Head of HR and other team members to prioritise policy development needs.

• Ensure documents are clearly written, inclusive, and aligned with the charity’s mission and values.

• Set up a simple policy review schedule for long-term sustainability.

Qualifications & Skills

• A degree or relevant qualification in Human Resources, Law, Public Policy, Governance, or related field (or equivalent experience).

• Strong research and written communication skills.

• Familiarity with UK employment law, volunteer management, safeguarding, and GDPR (training/guidance can be provided if needed).

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work independently.

• A commitment to upholding equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Desirable

• Experience working or volunteering in the charity or non-profit sector.

• Previous policy development experience in a professional or voluntary capacity.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience shaping essential governance and operational frameworks.

• Opportunity to directly influence the smooth running and legal compliance of a growing charity.

• A reference and recognition for your contribution.

• A flexible volunteer role with a welcoming and supportive team.

To apply, please send us your CV and a short message explaining your interest and availability. If you have any relevant samples of previous work (e.g. policies, templates), feel free to include them.

Buttle UK: Giving children in crisis a chance for change

Are you driven to champion children and young people and possess the strategic leadership skills needed to create change for those facing poverty and crisis? We're looking for a passionate and strategic individual to Chair our Board of Trustees at Buttle UK.

For over 70 years, we've been a lifeline for vulnerable children and young people across the UK, providing vital support through our Chances for Children grants. Building on our strong foundation and a period of reflection, Buttle UK is evolving. We will continue providing crucial, flexible grants but also use our expertise to understand and address the systemic issues that lead to poverty for the young people we support. Our 2025-2030 strategy positions us, not just as a grant-maker, but as a changemaker, committed to ensuring that no child’s future is determined by poverty and crisis. 

The Chair of Trustees is a vital role, inspiring and leading our Trustees and staff team, and ensuring we stay focused on our mission. You will work closely with our CEO to achieve our goals, and champion Buttle UK's vital work. 

We’re looking for someone with:

• strong leadership abilities

• a strategic mindset

• experience in supporting and mentoring

• exceptional communication skills

• a background in governance (Chair experience is not essential, but charity board experience is strongly preferred).

This is a fantastic opportunity to bring your expertise and passion to a charity where you can truly see the impact of your contribution and help us drive systemic change for vulnerable children and young people across the UK.

We pride ourselves on being an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from all applicants, regardless of race, sex or gender, sexuality, socio-economic background or any other minority or protected characteristic. We look forward to reviewing (and can make reasonable required  accommodations) for members of any such groups.

The candidate pack, which includes information on how to apply, can be downloaded from our website

Closing date for applications: midday on Wednesday 4th June

This is a voluntary role

Grace to Grow Mentorship & Training Limited

Grace to Grow Mentorship & Training Limited is developing leadership, entrepreneurial training, mentorship, counseling, and mindfulness programs to help adult women who need a second chance solve the problem of discovering and walking in their God-given purpose with a holistic and purpose-driven approach.

Grace to Grow Mentorship & Training Limited addresses critical social challenges that hinder women's empowerment, personal growth, and economic independence.

Graphic Designer (Illustrator)

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

1. Ability to work on projects, events etc. From concept to production of art work; layouts; image identification, and positioning
2. Research and source images that communicate diversity and inclusion for a globally friendly empowerment tool
3. Collaborate with other experts to produce a client/ learner friendly document on selected concepts/ topics
4. Create lead images that represent organizational/ entity brand and standards
5. Design content layout for maximum positive interaction
6. Aware of copyright and intellectual property rights
7. Edit , design and translate drafts for final publications
8. Awareness of document over / understyling; font size and style application and aesthetics
9. Be to work with a diverse team ( plan and concetualize and produce high standard end products)

Additional Tasks

1. Be able to review curriculum content and make suggestions and recommendations on layout.
2. Have basic knowledge of resource material layout.
3. Be adaptable and flexible
4. Be available to attend and contribute to planning meetings
5. Have the ability to create mock sessions for meeting presentation

Weekly Time Commitment

7-9 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

6+ months

Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.

Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year, 

Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.

Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.

Location: Oxfordshire

Reporting: To the Board of Trustees

Reference Documents:

Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide

Charity Governance Code

Charity Commission Guidance

Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at

Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.

Oxfordshire Youth

Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.

1.Charity Trustees

The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles: 

● the Chair of the Board of Trustees

● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager  

● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee  

● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee

2.The Role of the Board

At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.

3.Duties of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are:

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association  

● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be  

● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization

● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth  

● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds  

● Ensure appropriate safeguarding governance, processes, training and competences are in place to safeguard children, young people, adults, staff and others that OY may come into contact with

● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance  

In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

4.Minimum Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours, these usually take place in the evening. Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.

5.Person Specification

Each trustee should have:

● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth

● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement

● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims

Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind

● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticize

● Integrity

● An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship (although further training will be provided)

The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas: 

● Leadership and human resource management  

● Financial management, income generation and enterprise  

● Safeguarding experience and expertise  

● Public policy and public affairs  

● National and local youth sector

For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the marketing, pubic relations and business development profession; or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide marketing, pubic relations and business development advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.

Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work. 

Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.

6.Trustee Role Boundaries

Trustees in a decision-making capacity:

● As a board of trustees  

● As a sub-committee

● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary  

● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary

Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:

1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.

2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.

3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.

4. Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-posting people to OY.

Our existing 12 trustees bring a variety of skills and experiences, such as fundraising, safeguarding, finance and investments and lived RAF experience to the Fund. Your background, skills and experience will further enhance this for the benefit of the RAF Family.

The successful candidates will:

• be aligned to our vision, purpose, key goals and values and be able to demonstrate their commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion;

• be able contribute positively to the Fund in a non-executive capacity, operate strategically, be held accountable and hold others to account;

• be able to build supportive relationships and work as a team. This will involve working collectively with others, supporting collective decision-making, being comfortable in sharing your views and expertise with fellow trustees and the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) trustees whilst still bringing your own ideas, perspectives and experiences to discussions;

• have the ability to analyse and interpret complex information and evidence, demonstrate impartiality, intellectual flexibility and sound judgment;

• have the ability to listen, communicate and influence effectively;

• have the capacity and skill to understand stakeholder priorities; and

• be a collaborative and pragmatic problem-solver and have the ability to adapt and respond to change.

Role: Activities Volunteer

Commitment: Currently, sessions are run both during the week (mostly in the afternoon) and at weekends (usually on a Saturday). Activity volunteering is a flexible commitment, and you will be able to sign up for the session you like and when you have time. It really is up to you and your availability. 

Location: Life Without Limits Centre - 10 Lower Thames Street, London, EC3R 6EN 

Availability: RSBC Events · Events Calendar - https://lu.ma/rsbc

Age:  18+ 

Our Mission Statement: 

RSBC believes that every blind young person should have the chance to live life without limits. 

By giving young people the essential skills and confidence to take control of their life, they can unleash their true potential.

Our success depends on our values 

Underpinning all RSBC’s work are values embedded in trust and excellence: 

TRUST: Respect and accountability 

ENERGY: Straight talking and constantly learning 

AMBITION: Confronting reality and driving results 

MOTIVATION: Vision impaired children and young people are our number one priority, and we look for solutions, not problems 

What will I be doing?

Our amazing Activity Volunteers play a key role in supporting blind children and young people to take part in a variety of activities. These range from sports, creative (singing, performing, art), audiobook club and day trips. Our activities are designed for blind young people to meet new friends, gain confidence, learn new skills/sports, and become more independent. The skills you have developed in your career and personal life will be invaluable to our young people. 

Key Tasks and Main Duties 

Face-to-face activities 

• 1:1 sighted guiding from and to public transport locations 

• practical support onsite 

• supporting the sessions 

• facilitate social interaction between the participants 

Who are you?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow RSBC’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for RSBC. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of sight problems. 

What’s in it for me?

RSBC offers the opportunity to gain insight and experience into helping others with sight issues. As part of your volunteering, you will have access to Sighted Guide training, a training session designed to help you understand the issues and complexities of sight problems and give you the ability to help others navigate the world.

RSBC also provides paid expenses for your volunteering experience, you can claim up to £10 per day.

RSBC can also provide references and impact reports from your volunteering if required. 

You will be fully supported in your role by our team of expert and compassionate service delivery team.

Develop or utilise your skills – As a volunteer, you’ll be given plenty of opportunities to develop new skills or use those you already have, which can help to build your CV, boost your employability and give you a sense of satisfaction. 

What's in it for the Community? 

Make a difference to people’s lives

Help in your community

Help deliver creative services to help people with sighted issues feel included in the world around them.

Make a direct and tangible difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted children and young people. 

Safeguarding:

Due to the nature of the role, before you can begin volunteering with RSBC there are some required safeguarding checks which will need to be completed.

All RSBC volunteers undergo an Enhanced DBS check (paid for by RSBC) and must provide two references.

All volunteers will also be booked onto safeguarding training.

RSBC risk assesses all its services and activities.

Next Steps: 

If this sounds like you, please fill out an expression of interest, and one of our volunteer team members will get back to you!

Role: Digital Activities Volunteer

Commitment: Currently, sessions are run both during the week (mostly in the afternoon) and at weekends (usually on a Saturday). Activity volunteering is a flexible commitment, and you will be able to sign up for the session you like and when you have time. It really is up to you and your availability. 

Location: Remote

Availability: RSBC Events · https://lu.ma/rsbc

Age:  18+ 

Our Mission Statement: 

RSBC believes that every blind young person should have the chance to live life without limits. 

By giving young people the essential skills and confidence to take control of their life, they can unleash their true potential.

Our success depends on our values 

Underpinning all RSBC’s work are values embedded in trust and excellence: 

TRUST: Respect and accountability 

ENERGY: Straight talking and constantly learning 

AMBITION: Confronting reality and driving results 

MOTIVATION: Vision impaired children and young people are our number one priority, and we look for solutions, not problems 

What will I be doing?

Our amazing Activity Volunteers play a key role in supporting blind children and young people to take part in a variety of activities. These range from sports, creative (singing, performing, art), audiobook club and day trips. Our activities are designed for blind young people to meet new friends, gain confidence, learn new skills/sports, and become more independent. The skills you have developed in your career and personal life will be invaluable to our young people. 

Key Tasks and Main Duties 

Online activities: 

• support the session timetable 

• facilitate the communication and social interaction between participants 

• encourage members of the group to participate and share their opinions 

Who are you?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow RSBC’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for RSBC. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of sight problems. 

What’s in it for me?

RSBC offers the opportunity to gain insight and experience into helping others with sight issues. As part of your volunteering, you will have access to Sighted Guide training, a training session designed to help you understand the issues and complexities of sight problems and give you the ability to help others navigate the world.

RSBC also provides paid expenses for your volunteering experience, you can claim up to £10 per day.

RSBC can also provide references and impact reports from your volunteering if required. 

You will be fully supported in your role by our team of expert and compassionate service delivery team.

Develop or utilise your skills – As a volunteer, you’ll be given plenty of opportunities to develop new skills or use those you already have, which can help to build your CV, boost your employability and give you a sense of satisfaction. 

What's in it for the Community? 

Make a difference to people’s lives

Help in your community

Help deliver creative services to help people with sighted issues feel included in the world around them.

Make a direct and tangible difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted children and young people. 

Safeguarding:

Due to the nature of the role, before you can begin volunteering with RSBC there are some required safeguarding checks which will need to be completed.

All RSBC volunteers undergo an Enhanced DBS check (paid for by RSBC) and must provide two references.

All volunteers will also be booked onto safeguarding training.

RSBC risk assesses all its services and activities.

Next Steps: 

If this sounds like you, please fill out an expression of interest, and one of our volunteer team members will get back to you!

North London Scout District is the leading inner-city Scout District in the country, covering the London Boroughs of Camden, Haringey, Islington and the City of London and providing outdoor experiences and skills for life for young people from a very diverse city population. The Scout District is a registered charity with over 2,000 members in active Scout Groups across the boroughs we cover. We have a lovely camp site and centre with 8 acres of woodland and open fields hidden away in the heart of Bounds Green, and a modern centre and sports hall on the Holloway Road as well as other property, considerable reserves in various investments, and four employees.

We are looking for a new Treasurer to join our Trustee Board and support our ambition. This is a challenging and rewarding role, helping to ensure the organisation continues to fulfil its role in developing young people, managing resources responsibly and remaining sustainable. 

The ideal candidate will have significant experience in strategic financial management and of working for or within a Board. Equally important is a desire to support young people, commitment to our Scouting values and a collaborative style, able to draw out the skill and potential within our team.

As an organisation we are committed to embodying our diverse and vibrant inner London environment, and we particularly welcome people who reflect our city and our members communities to join our Board to help strengthen our governance and our approach.

Being a member of the Board is a vital ‘backroom’ role, but there are plenty of opportunities to meet and celebrate the young people, and the adult volunteers, who benefit from the support the Board delivers.

Job description

As a Trustee you will:

a) Be an important part of the body that governs the charity and ensures it delivers its mission effectively.

b) Actively participate in meetings, offering guidance and support to ensure that North London Scout District delivers experiences for young people and supports adult volunteers in a safe environment.

c) Set North London Scout District’s budgets, plans and financial reports, ensuring they meet the organisation’s needs and the relevant regulatory requirements.

d) Help ensure North London Scout District is complying with UK Scout policy and processes and all relevant laws, as well as updating and reviewing its own policies and procedures. .

e) Act with care and skill in North London Scout District’s best interests.

f) Be or become a member of the Scouts.

As a Trustee you share, with all the Trustees, equal responsibility for the charity.

Person Specification

Prospective Trustees will:

a) Be committed the development of young people through Scouting.

b) Have experience of developing good relationships with people and organisations, stakeholders and supporters.

c) Be able to work in a team, recognising and respecting the difference between the Trustees’ role and that of staff or volunteers.

d) Be able to contribute to and ensure North London Scout District’s future plans and strategic development and/or financial stability.

All Trustees, as members of The Scouts, will be required to undertake an enhanced disclosure check with the UK Disclosure and Barring Service (a DBS check).

The prospective Treasurer will have:

a) A recognised accounting qualification.

b) Significant experience of financial management, budgeting and reporting, including the management of investments. 

c) An understanding of the financial, strategic and operational risks and their mitigation in a charity context.

d) Be familiar with charity accounting and statutory reporting requirements.

The Treasurer leads on all financial matters, working with the Finance Committee.  The Finance Committee is responsible for making budget recommendations and financial reports to the Board and for agreeing and overseeing financial and related policies. The Treasurer liaises closely with the bookkeeper, an employee, to provide quarterly financial reports, the annual budget and annual statutory accounts to the Board.  Input is also required during the annual audit process.

The Board

North London Scout District is governed by a Board of between 8 and 15 (currently 13) Trustees, who are elected at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in June. Trustees normally serve for at least 4 years.

Trustees are not paid but travel expenses may be claimed for attending meetings.

The Board meets (via Zoom and in person) 5 - 6 times a year, usually early evening on a Wednesday. Regular dates are agreed a year in advance.

Individual Trustees also join or lead the Board’s Committees.  There is currently a Finance Committee (which meets 5 times a year, a week or so ahead of Board meetings. We also have occasional task groups for short-term items.

Sense College Loughborough is a specialist Further Education (FE) college, supporting students between 16-25, who have a wide range of disabilities. We aim to prepare young people to be as independent as possible and help them to achieve their long term goals. We offer different pathways and work with Loughborough College, to help students gain the skills, experience, knowledge and confidence to achieve these goals. 

Candidates interested in the role of Lay Governor at college must be able to demonstrate commitment to Safeguarding, Strategic leadership and a passion to Further Education particularly Specialist Education. A understanding of issues facing the post 16 specialist education sector would be desirable. If you feel you have the ability to make a positive contribution to meetings and provide constructive challenge to support senior managers at the college we would love to hear from you. We anticipate that the successful candidates will need to commit a minimum of 4 half days per term to the role in relation to meetings and preparation. The ability to attend other ad-hoc college events and visits would also be very welcomed.

The role of members of the Governing Body is to provide strategic leadership, support and constructive challenge to the college senior management team to ensure that Sense College provides an excellent education experience for all students. The Governors will work with the college senior management to ensure the college offers a broad based curriculum to maximise the teaching and learning experiences of all its students, with demonstrable outcomes. Sense College Loughborough Lay Governors will attend 3 full committee meetings a year, plus 3 extra meetings for their chosen sub-committee. Meetings last from 90 minutes for sub-committees and 2 hours 30 minutes for the full committee, Lay Governors will come prepared and engaged, having done the reading the prior and ready to ask any questions they may have. Governors of Sense College have a varied role encompassing a range of duties. Much of this is undertaken through participation in the full Governing Body meetings and Sense College sub-committees according to a governor`s experience and skillset, and through college visits.

Some examples of governor duties are below, noting that these are not exclusive:

• Reviewing, approving and monitoring the implementation of the Sense College 2022-2025 Strategic Plan
• Approving the final Sense College Annual Self-Assessment Report (SAR)
• Reviewing and monitoring progress and outcomes from the Sense College Quality Improvement Plan (QuIP)
• Reviewing students’ progress and achievements through a range of products i.e. case studies, reports and visits to Sense College
• Reviewing college data against Key Performance Indicators and dashboards.
• Participating in Ofsted inspection meetings on governance to support Sense College and the college senior management team
• Monitoring implementation of safeguarding (SfG) procedures, keeping updated with current SfG legislation and governors Prevent responsibilities
• Monitoring college budget performance with the emphasis on new students  referrals funded through the Education and Skills Funding Agency
• Attending and participating in governor training events, student celebrations and college visits 

About us 

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

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

Sense values 

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

Are you a skilled and qualified Yoga Instructor and have experience in delivering meditation sessions? We are looking for a female only volunteer to run sessions with a small group of women in our Domestic Abuse refuge. The group will involve some Yoga but will be mainly focused on Meditation due to the lack of space within the refuge.

This role will be a part of our ‘be you’ project which aims to provide a safe and inclusive space in every Hestia refuge to support women to gain confidence, socialise, develop and most importantly enjoy themselves! You will be supporting women to rebuild their lives free from fear!

What you will be doing

• Facilitate a weekly Yoga and meditation session in a small group
• Plan each session and identify any items needed for the Meditation sessions
• Lead on the logistics and set up of the session alongside the staff team Inspire and motivate people using the services to attend

The skills you need

• Experience delivering Meditation groups
• Yoga Qualification
• Good communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

Are you passionate about working with children and looking for an opportunity to make a difference? We are recruiting for a volunteer to support with engaging and keeping children entertained while mums participate in our workshops and events. By providing this support, you will be allowing women to participate in events to develop their skills, confidence and build on their aspirations.

This role will be on an ad hoc basis and will require travelling to different places in London.

What you will be doing

• Maintain strict confidentiality
• Entertaining children with provided toys and small activities such as colouring or puzzles etc..
• Ensuring the children are kept safe and accompanied at all times

The skills you need

• Calm and patient approach
• Experience in childcare preferred
• Working knowledge of child safeguarding preferred
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages learning and participation
• Good communication skills
• Paediatric First Aider - Desired

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.