Volunteer roles

The Listening Place is a volunteer-led charity aiming to transform how we support people who feel suicidal.  Our trained volunteers are part of a team delivering face-to-face, confidential, ongoing support to thousands of people each year.  They help create the warm and welcoming environment that encourages people struggling with suicidal thoughts and feelings to talk openly without being judged or given advice.   

Helping Volunteers are responsible for welcoming visitors onto our premises, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere (along with a cup of tea), and supporting our Listening Volunteers to help everything run smoothly.

We are looking for volunteers who have the empathy to greet distressed visitors, the willingness to undertake a variety of admin and other tasks and the resilience to support their team.  Our HVs need to be proactive, self-starters and team players with a basic understanding of IT. We ask for a weekly commitment of four hours for a period of at least six months.

We are primarily recruiting Helping Volunteers for our Hammersmith and Liverpool Street sites.

Trustees
Specialist Education and Care Trust
Location: Cranleigh, Surrey (hybrid)
Time commitment: Approx. 10–12 days per year
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

A specialist education and care trust based in Surrey is seeking up to five new Trustees to join its committed and values-led Board. This is a rewarding opportunity to support children and young adults with complex learning and behavioural needs through integrated education, care and therapy.

As a Trustee, you will provide strategic oversight and constructive challenge across the organisation’s education, residential and supported living services. You’ll work closely with the Executive Principal and Senior Leadership Team, helping to shape operational strategy, monitor financial performance, and ensure effective governance.

Applications are welcome from individuals with experience in the charity, education, care, or public service sectors. The organisation is particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• HR and people strategy

• IT systems and cyber security

• Finance and financial oversight

• Legal and contract law

• Health services

• Safeguarding

Above all, the Trust is looking for individuals who bring energy and enthusiasm, empathy and values alignment, and a collaborative and constructive spirit.

You do not need to be Catholic to apply; Trustees of all faiths and none who share the organisation’s mission and commitment to inclusion are warmly welcomed.

Deadline for applications: 11 January 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 19 January 2026 and week commencing 26 January 2026

For more information, including how to apply, please view the appointment brief on the Prospectus website.

About Bliss

With an impact in all corners of the UK, Bliss is the leading national neonatal charity, championing and developing the services for the 90,000 sick and premature babies born each year, supporting both them and their families. At Bliss, we are committed to improving care, giving voice to babies, and supporting parents to be partners in care. 

This is a really exciting time to join our board. We’ve just launched our new four-year strategy, which puts equity at the heart of everything we do. With NHS reforms underway, a new 10-Year Plan on the horizon, and growing attention on maternity and neonatal care, there’s a real opportunity to raise Bliss’s profile and make a lasting difference for premature and sick babies across the UK.

Chair opportunity

Our new Chair will be an experienced Trustee or Board member with proven ability to manage meetings effectively and foster productive, inclusive discussions. They will bring energy and drive, ensuring robust governance and alignment between strategy and operations. They will enjoy leading inclusive and thoughtful discussions, and share our passion for giving every baby the best possible start in life.

You can find more information about Bliss and the Chair role in our recruitment pack.

Don’t think you quite meet all of the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out – we’d still love to hear from you and learn more about you and your interest in joining Bliss!

Ready to apply?

Eastside People is supporting Bliss in the recruitment of these roles. Please by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• Why is Bliss’ work important to you and how can you contribute to the charity as our Chair?
• How do you ensure board meetings are focused, inclusive, and lead to clear decisions?
• How would you go about ensuring that our many stakeholders are heard and represented at Board level?

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

Bliss’ Chair, CEO and Trustees will be hosting a 30-minute drop-in session on Mon 8th December at 12pm via Teams. This is an opportunity to learn more about Bliss and what’s involved in joining our Board. You can register to attend here.

The closing date for applications is Mon 5th Jan. 

Longlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place mid-January, with shortlisted candidates invited to panel interviews with Bliss during the week commencing 2 February.

Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to take part in open sessions with staff and Board members, with final interviews scheduled for the week commencing 23 February.

Bliss is an equal opportunities organisation. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and lived experiences. We strive to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and are committed to equity and inclusion at every level of our governance.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Social Media & Fundraising Volunteer

Support a rare disease charity and build your professional experience

Are you a student or early-career professional looking to gain hands-on experience in social media, communications, and charity work? SLC6A1 Connect UK is seeking a Volunteer to help us grow our online presence and connect with families affected by the rare neurological condition SLC6A1.

This opportunity is available on a short-term basis (for example, 6 months) for those seeking experience, or for individuals interested in making a longer-term contribution to a small rare diseases charity.

What You’ll Do

• Create and schedule engaging social media content across platforms, including LinkedIn
• Help us raise awareness of SLC6A1 and our community’s needs
• Support campaigns, events, and fundraising efforts
• Collaborate with trustees and families to share stories and updates

Why Join Us?

• “The charity gives me hope and comfort that someone is working tirelessly to help find a cure for our children.” - Dan, parent of a six-year-old diagnosed with SLC6A1
• “The charity is the only resource available to myself and my family with knowledge of my son's rare genetic disease. It provides emotional support, in addition to offering relevant information and referrals to other professionals and families. By collaborating through this network, we are better positioned to pursue a cure or treatment.” - Helen, parent of an individual diagnosed with SLC6A1 at the age of 30
• “Volunteering with SLC6A1 Connect UK has given me a sense of purpose and belonging during a journey that can often feel isolating. Being part of this community means connecting with others who truly understand, sharing hope, supporting vital research, and working together to create a better future for our children.”

You’ll be joining a charity that is:

• Led by lived experience
• Focused on impact and innovation
• Ready to grow with your guidance

What We Offer

• Flexible hours to fit around your studies or work
• Mentorship and support from experienced trustees
• A chance to gain experience and references for future employment
• Real impact in a community that needs your voice

FAQs

“I don’t have much time.”
We’re looking for someone who can commit around 2-4 hours per week, but we’re flexible.

“I’ve never worked in a charity before.”
No problem! We’ll support you and help you learn as you go.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Our volunteers are a fundamental part of our shops. Any time which they volunteer at our shops, help us be there for more people who are experiencing a mental health problem. 

About the volunteer role

To provide our volunteers with opportunities to gain a variety of skills and experience, we offer them a range of volunteer roles to choose from, which include:

• Stock preparation volunteer
• Volunteer shop sales assistant
• Volunteer stock generation assistant
• Volunteer window dresser/Merchandiser
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (antiques and collectables)
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (books and entertainment)
• Housekeeping volunteer

Key tasks

There is a variety of tasks within the above mentioned roles that our volunteers get involved with, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers with their purchases, providing them with great customer service and a delightful shopping experience
• Receiving donated items from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated items for sale
• Creating visually appealing window and in-store displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, clean and coordinated
• Processing sales and serving at the till
• Signing up gift aid donors
• Stock rotation
• Identifying special or valuable items within donated stock

About you

• Passionate about customer service 
• Good communication skills 
• Friendly and helpful
• Respectful of others and their diversity

Experience & skills you will gain

• Experience of working as part of a team
• Retail experience 
• Stock organisation
• Selling skills 
• Customer service skills 

Our Commitment

We are committed to becoming actively anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services. We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.

Become an Enter & View Volunteer

Do you want to help improve local health and social care services?
We’re looking for volunteers who live in Barking and Dagenham and can take a fresh, solution-focused approach to assessing how services are run.

As an Enter & View Volunteer, you’ll:

✔️Receive full training from Healthwatch Barking and Dagenham

✔️Visit health and social care settings to gather feedback from patients and residents

✔️Help identify what’s working well and where improvements are needed

What you’ll need:

❤️Good communication and listening skills

❤️Professionalism, reliability, and empathy

❤️Ability to follow guidance and work as part of a team

Time commitment:
Flexible – you can choose when and how often you volunteer.
All reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Please get in touch to express your interest and request an application form.

The Income Generation Officer will play a pivotal role in enhancing the financial sustainability and growth of Mountain Rescue England & Wales (MREW), supporting 47 active mountain rescue teams across the region. This voluntary position is responsible for devising and implementing a robust income generation strategy to ensure the long-term funding and stability of the organisation.

Resource is required to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to support long-term funding and organisation growth, financial stability and the achievement of income goals. This will include building relations with major donors, corporate partnerships, legacies and individual giving. In addition, there is scope to drive income through MR membership and via grants from trusts, foundations and government.

Reporting to the CEO, the person will need to contribute to the MREW’s overall future strategy. There will be a need to understand the MR structure and to have the ability to work as part of the MREW Senior Management Team, and alongside trustees, liaison team, regional structure and local teams. 

Using the MREW Income Generation Strategy, they will review all existing income generation streams to understand their viability and scalability, along with all potential new income streams to develop sustainable income for MREW.

Mountain Rescue England & Wales (MREW) is a voluntary organisation that provides mountain rescue services 24/7, 365 days a year, and offers support to communities during other crises. It consists of 47 independent volunteer search and rescue teams that operate across eight geographical areas. The organisation serves as the national body to represent the whole organisation, acting as an advisory body, linking with partner organisations and helping to standardise training and share information.

Objectives

The overarching activities for this role are:

• Develop an income generation plan, aligning with the financial planning cycle, with a periodic review and reporting cycle. Deliver against the plan.
• Central to the role will be the following essential tasks:
  • Grant Writing: Researching and writing grant proposals to secure funding from various trusts, foundations, and government agencies. 
  • Corporate Partnerships: Building and maintaining relationships with businesses to secure corporate sponsorships, donations, and in-kind contributions. 
  • Donor Engagement: Cultivating and managing relationships with individual donors and supporters to ensure their engagement and long-term support. 
• Create an opportunity to develop long-term wills and legacy income.
• Develop compelling cases for support grounded in impact and aligned with MREW values and mission.
• Build and steward high-value relationships with funders, donors and strategic partners.
• Oversee income targets whilst ensuring compliance with fundraising regulations and ethical standards.
• Research and develop grant opportunities from national and local bodies, in conjunction with regional and local teams.
• Lead on income generation for MREW, working with member teams and all other stakeholders. Support regional and local team fundraising opportunities. Foster collaboration, empowerment and accountability.
• Agree on short-term and long-term fundraising targets and opportunities alongside the MREW Senior Management Team.
• Represent MREW at relevant external meetings.

Skills

• Experience generating income, with a demonstrable track record of developing and leading fundraising strategies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to inspire and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to foster trust and accurately represent MREW’s mission and goals.
• Ability to work alongside colleagues and manage competing priorities.
• Financial literacy, including budget creation and management.
• Creativity, imagination and intuition.

We are looking for a motivated, self-starter with a proactive attitude, drive and enthusiasm to carry out projects to conclusion. You will need to demonstrate a commitment to the charity's mission and cause. 

Qualifications

• Financial or project management qualifications are desirable.

Additional notes

• To work with the Finance Director to plan for future year budgets and to ensure that an accurate record of all financial transactions are produced and maintained for the MREW Finance Director, including the fundraising pipeline.
• To ensure all committee members are treated fairly through MREW Equal Opportunities Policy.
• To work with the national media team to release press statements/support campaigns as required.
• This is a voluntary role within MREW, elected annually; it is expected that the applicant will serve a term of 5 years, with a possible extension of a further 5 years if desired.
• Travel during the working day may be required, with occasional absence from home overnight, as meetings with funders and other stakeholders may cover a large geographical area. Out-of-pocket expenses can be reclaimed in line with the MREW Expenses Policy.

Thames Rivers Trust is looking for a new Trustee.

We are especially interested in people with a scientific background, ideally in Freshwater Ecology, Environmental Biology,

Environmental Science, Aquatic Conservation or Zoology.

We are looking to increase our Trustee Board's diversity and skillsets; strengthening TRT for a resilient future and supporting our mission to bring together organisations across the Thames River Basin, and foster collaborative working to benefit the environment, wildlife and communities.

This voluntary role is open to all qualifying individuals, including those with no previous Board or Trustee experience. We are looking for potential not perfection, we are happy to consider someone at the beginning of their career as well as seasoned professionals. If you will add value, we want your expertise to help achieve our vision!

Our Mission To bring together organisations across the Thames River Basin, and foster collaborative working to benefit the environment, wildlife and communities.

Our Vision Our vision is for a vibrant and healthy Thames River Basin.

Our Values Independence, Evidence-based, Sustainability, Trustworthy.

Who are we? TRT is a registered charity founded in 1986 and is part of The Rivers Trust movement. We are a Hub Trust for the Thames catchment, with our Key Partners we are dedicated to improving the Thames and its tributaries for the benefit of wildlife, communities and the environment. Rivers are vital, we all need cold, clean and plentiful water to thrive; for communities, for business, for farming and for a wealth of wildlife species; yet our rivers are facing a multitude of serious threats and challenges. Together we and our partners are striving at many levels to preserve and improve rivers now and for the future in the Thames catchment. TRT is committed to developing a collaborative, partnership approach that maximises the benefits of public, private and third sector organisations working together with communities to deliver integratedoutcomes. Our most recent flagship project was the successful Thames Catchment Community Eels Project, led by TRT this pilot project worked closely with 3 fellow rivers trusts, Zoological Society of London and Thames Estuary Partnership to strategically identify priority barriers for works to make migration upstream possible for the critically endangered European eel, trial a new citizen science ObstacEELS, monitor elver migration and run extensive hands on community and school eel education outreach. The project has led on to an exciting upscaled National Lottery Heritage Fund funded phase 2 project Development Phase, that is about to start! TRT is the convening body for the Thames Catchment Forum. This interactive regional forum brings together 27 catchment partnership hosts within the Thames for shared learning and development, themed panel discussions, expert guest speakers and Water Frame Directive updates from Thames Water and the Environment Agency, looking at issues and proposing solutions. TRT works in partnership, leading our Key Partners group of 11 organisations that through the group are more informed to do more and better from mutual trust and openness, sharing their specialist knowledge and expertise. This leads to development of strong, evidence-based projects at scale to improve Thames rivers and educate and involve local communities. Together we achieve more, increasing our positive impact sooner. 

What is a Trustee? Charity Trustees are the people who share ultimate responsibility for governing a charity and directing how it is managed and run. This involves the Board of Trustees making decisions together, acting in the interests of the charity. Some charity trustees see their role as turning up to 4 meetings a year, but engaged trustees do a lot more than that. A Trustee might support a specific project’s development, attend events to network and represent TRT, have oversight of an area of TRT work that aligns with a trustee’s particular specialism and interest. Our Trustees use their skills, knowledge and experience to support TRT, helping the charity achieve its aims. Trustees also often learn new skills during their time on the Board.

What are we looking for? An applicant with a scientific background, ideally in Freshwater Ecology, Environmental Biology, Environmental Science, Aquatic Conservation or Zoology. A strong interest in the environment is essential and an interest in or knowledge of the Thames Catchment would be beneficial; in addition, do you possess any of the following skills or qualities? • Fundraising • Legal • A willingness to participate in discussions and decision making. If yes and you have time to commit to a growing and ambitious charity that is looking to develop and deliver more, we want to hear from you!

Our board of Trustees meets up quarterly in person, during the day in London and Reading. In between these meetings Trustees are in touch regularly with our small, but dedicated team. Time commitment is flexible, in addition to meetings, an average of 2 hours per month to read papers and participate in TRT business. Our Key Partners – Action for the River Kennet, Thames21, South East Rivers Trust, River Thame Conservation Trust, Cotswolds Rivers Trust, Crane Valley Community Interest Company, Zoological Society of London, Thames Estuary Partnership, Freshwater Habitats Trust, Thames Landscape Strategy and UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology. TRT values its Trustees and their contributions and will offer support and guidance to all new Trustees. The role of a Trustee is a voluntary one, however the Trust provides indemnity insurance for Trustees and reasonable expenses incurred on authorised Trust business will be reimbursed. Application To find out more about us visit our website. The deadline for applications is midnight 31st December 2025. Please apply with your CV or an application letter. 

About The Role

We believe that the best way for people to understand and connect to wetlands is to experience them, so we bring awe-inspiring nature up close. At Martin Mere Wetland Centre, visitors can explore unique wetland habitats and the amazing array of birds, mammals and amphibians that inhabit them. Our volunteers help to welcome and inspire visitors and get to experience looking after our unique habitats and heritage.

It is a great feeling showing a visitor a bird they’ve not seen before or helping them to tell the difference between 2 species they’ve been struggling on for ages.  That spark of enthusiasm can make such a difference!

We are currently looking for volunteers that can help us out as a Guide in the Hide on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays.

Volunteers are an essential part of the WWT team. You'll get a warm welcome, including information on training, equipment and anything else you need. 

If you are interested in volunteering for WWT, but don't wish to apply online, please email us or give us a call and leave a message with your name and number.  

About You

We are looking for passionate volunteers that love birding and love sharing that enthusiasm with others!

The role will include:

• Being welcoming in the discovery hide and bird Observatory helping point out to the visitors what wildlife they can see
• Surveying the marsh harriers and avocets during the breeding season
• Walking around the other hides birding and talking to visitors.
• Updating the sightings board and letting the information desk team know about any exciting sightings.
• Keeping the hides clean by litter picking and sweeping

Please note, you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you'll love volunteering at WWT

• Feel good knowing you are helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by like-minded wetland lovers
• Hear from the people who inject their energy, passion and expertise into wetlands and wildlife - talks, walks, webinars, tea and cake...
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Volunteer discount on shopping and memberships
• Access to webinars and practical information to help you manage daily life

For more information on this role, and others, and to apply please visit our webpage. 

We look forward to hearing from you! 

LIVN Global is a faith-based charity dedicated to bringing hope and transformation to remote communities across the world by providing access to clean water, education, and sustainable development projects.

As we grow, we are seeking a volunteer Grants & Fundraising Officer to help us secure funding and build partnerships that will extend our reach and impact.

Responsibilities

• Research potential grant opportunities, trusts, and foundations aligned with our mission.
• Write compelling and precise grant applications & funding proposals.
• Develop creative fundraising initiatives and campaigns to engage individuals, churches, and organisations.
• Build and maintain relationships with donors and partners.
• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop a sustainable funding strategy.
• Ensure compliance with grant conditions, internal processes and relevant data protection standards.

Requirements

• Strong written communication skills with an ability to inspire through words
• Experience in grant writing, fundraising, or bid writing (desirable but not essential – training may be provided).
• A passion for social justice and a heart for Christian ministry.
• Confidence in managing multiple priorities whilst working with accuracy and own initiative.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisation skills
• Ability to work independently and keep things moving.

Benefits

• Live out your faith – Put your values into action through practical service that reflects love, dignity, and respect for all
• Learn new skills – Build your confidence and develop invaluable sector experience and unique skills.
• Serve with purpose – Use your time and talents to support a faith based charity rooted in action, compassion and love for others.
• Enhance your CV – Gain practical experience which can support future career goals.
• Flexibility - Work from anywhere and choose your own (part time) hours to fit around your schedule
• Build global connections – Join a passionate and supportive team with contacts based around the world and connect with others who are united with the intent to make a positive difference.

This role is a fantastic opportunity for a fundraiser to step into a hands-on strategic role, offering the chance to influence strategy, drive income growth and in turn support vital under-served communities across the world.

If this resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you!

Please submit your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest in this role without delay.

Job Summary
LIVN Global is a faith-based charity dedicated to bringing hope and transformation to remote communities across the world by providing access to clean water, education, and sustainable development projects.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and and motivated volunteer who is keen to expand their skills and experiences, whilst making a lasting impact. If you enjoy networking, researching opportunities, and building partnerships that make a difference, then this is the ideal role for you.
The volunteer Public Engagement Lead will help identify and develop opportunities that raise the charity’s visibility, strengthen relationships, and open doors to collaborations.

Responsibilities

• Research and identify relevant events, conferences, and networking opportunities .
• Source potential partnership opportunities with businesses, community groups, and other charities.
• Oversee social media management on all channels to promote visibility and engagement.
• Assist with fundraising activities, including planning events and engaging with stakeholders.
• Manage the administrative calendar of key external events, deadlines, and opportunities.
• Support the charity’s presence at events by helping to prepare information, promotional materials, and introductions.
• Contribute to teaching or training programmes aimed at skill development for team members or community groups.Build and maintain a simple database of contacts, partners, and potential opportunities.
• Share insights and recommendations with the leadership team on where the charity should have visibility.

Requirements

• Strong communication and networking skills.
• Ability to build and nurture professional relationships
• Research skills and a keen eye for spotting opportunities
• Confident and proactive in building connections online, on the phone and in-person
• A strong understanding of all Microsoft office packages
• Confidence in managing multiple priorities whilst working with accuracy and own initiative.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisation skills
• Ability to work independently and keep things moving.

Benefits

• Live out your faith – Put your values into action through practical service that reflects love, dignity, and respect for all
• Learn new skills – Build your confidence and develop invaluable sector experience and unique skills.
• Serve with purpose – Use your time and talents to support a faith based charity rooted in action, compassion and love for others.
• Enhance your CV – Gain practical experience which can support future career goals.
• Flexibility - Work from anywhere and choose your own hours (10 - 14 per week) to fit around your schedule
• Build global connections – Join a passionate and supportive team with contacts based around the world and connect with others who are united with the intent to make a positive difference.

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a proactive individual who is committed to making a positive impact within our organisation, while developing their professional innovative, project management and community engagement skills.

If this resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you!

Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest in this role without delay.

Are you a passionate people person?Join us as a Fundraising Volunteer! 

We are looking for an enthusiastic volunteer to support Dimensions with fundraising as part of our 50th birthday celebrations in 2026.If you’re looking for Fundraising experience or you love to make a difference, this is the perfect opportunity to get involved! 
 
Activities will include 

• Launching Small Sparks grants and all associated fundraising as part of our 50th celebrations 

• Encouraging the people we support and their support teams to think what they could do with a Small Sparks grant and make nominations 

• Manage the small fundraising budget, aiming to maximise colleague participation 

• Planning and delivering fundraising activities throughout the year

About you 

We are looking for someone who is: 

• A natural ball of energy and a people person.

• Passionate about supporting people to live better lives, with the communication skills to get colleagues, the people we support and their families to join you in your mission. 

• Friendly and enthusiastic   

• Reliable/dependable and willing to volunteer regularly (ideally 2 –3 days per week, around your availability)  

Two character references will be required for this role.     

What you’ll gain from being a Dimensions volunteer:    

Dimensions provide support for autistic people and people with learning disabilities across the UK.   

    Our volunteers play a vital role in our work and in return, we support them with:    

•  Access to free online training (with access to 800 plus courses)    

• Comprehensive support from professional and friendly Dimensions staff    

• Reasonable expenses may be reimbursed at manager’s discretion     

• An opportunity to gain real experience in the social care sector    

    
Want to apply for this role? 

 If you’d like to be a Dimensions volunteer, please get in touch!

We’re looking for trustees​

I’m Tom, Chair of the Board of Trustees for We The Curious. ​

We are looking for individuals with specific skills to join our trustee board who are passionate about creating a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future through science and creative experiences. ​

Following a prolonged closure due to Covid and then a fire in our venue, We The Curious reopened to the public in July of 2024. One year later we have newfound opportunities and challenges ahead and we need people with fresh perspectives and particular skills to help us continue to grow. ​

Finance – we are looking someone who is a chartered accountant and who has financial experience and expertise that they can bring to our board, as well as our Finance & Risk Assurance Committee​

Legal – we are looking for a qualified lawyer to bring strategic legal and compliance expertise to our board and our Finance and Risk Assurance Committee. ​

Fundraising – we are looking for someone with fundraising and development experience to join our board, and either our Purpose or Finance and Risk Assurance Committee.​

Education – we are looking for someone with experience in primary or secondary education​

If you feel energised by our charity, this opportunity and have expertise in any of these areas then we’d love to hear from you!​

Tom Betts, Chair of Board of Trustees, We The Curious​

What is a trustee?​

Trustees have overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do. They may be known by other titles, such as:​ Directors, board members, governors, committee members​

Whatever they are called, trustees are the people who work with our experienced leadership team to provide support, encouragement, challenge when needed and help to decide how the charity is run. Being a trustee means making decisions that will impact on people’s lives. As part of the board of trustees at We the Curious you will be making a difference to the community in Bristol and the surrounding area and helping us to connect and empower people through science. Trustees use their skills and experience to support their charities, helping them achieve their aims. Trustees also often learn new skills during their time on the board.​

-Charity Commission, find out more here​
 ​
About We The Curious​

We The Curious is an educational charity and one of the UK’s leading science centres. ​

We produce experiences that bring people together to play, get creative with science and explore different ideas around science, technology, natural history and the environment. ​

We work with partners, locally and nationally, supporting people to be inquisitive, develop new skills and improve their wellbeing.​

We are progressive, inquisitive, collaborative, playful and creative.​

Vision​

What if everyone is included, curious, inspired by science to build a better world together?​

Mission​

Our aim is to connect and empower people through sharing creative experiences which celebrate unknowns in science.​

Our work as a charity is driven by five key pledges:​

_Cultivate Curiosity​

_Include Everyone​

_Open Up Science​

_Sustainable Futures​

_Build Resilience​

You can find out more about these in our Manifesto.​

​What will you do in this role?​

As a trustee you will provide advice, knowledge and support to the leadership team at We The Curious. ​

With the steer of the Chair, the board of trustees ensures we pursue our purpose responsibly, are compliant with our governing documents, charity law and other relevant legislation. The board will review and advise on best practice and appropriate policies and procedures and uphold excellent governance. ​

Below are some of the key areas of work generally as a trustee.​

As a trustee you will:​

_Contribute individual skills and knowledge in support of the vision and strategic delivery​

_Uphold the values of We The Curious​

_Safeguard and advocate for the work and vision of We The Curious​

_Act as ambassadors locally, nationally and internationally​

_Assist with the evaluation and review of the policies, goals and targets of the organisation​

_Encourage investment and growth​

_Drive innovation and change​

_Oversee the effective and efficient administration of the organisation and long-term financial stability​

_Contribute to working groups for specific focus on projects​

All Trustees should use their specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach informed decisions in the best interest of We The Curious. ​

This will involve scrutinising Board papers, leading discussion and providing guidance as requested by the Board on new initiatives or other issues relevant to the area of our work in which the trustee has expertise. ​

​Finance - as a trustee with strategic financial experience you will:​

_Help to provide financial oversight for the charity, ensuring resources are used, invested and spent in line with legal requirements​

_Ensure the charity complies with charity law and financial governance requirements​

_Advise the board and leadership team on when to seek external financial advice for complex matters​

_Join our finance and risk assurance committee and regularly monitor the management accounts and financial reporting with a view to becoming chair of the committee​

We are looking for qualified accountants with practical up-to-date knowledge of management accounting principles, financial reporting and charity finances, analytical skills and strategic thinking. ​

Legal -  as a trustee with legal expertise you will:​

_Contribute strategic advice to the board on the legal implications of our plans and initiatives​

_Advise the board and leadership team on when to seek external legal advice for complex matters​

_Ensure the charity complies with its governing document, charity law and other relevant legislation ​

_Join our finance and risk assurance committee and work to manage any legal risks, ensuring policies and procedures align with best legal practices​

We are looking for qualified lawyers with strong knowledge of company and charity law, analytical skills and strategic thinking.​

Fundraising -  as a trustee with fundraising and development expertise you will:​

_Contribute strategic advice to the board around fundraising and development strategy​

_Advise the board and leadership team on potential funding streams ​

_Join either our finance and risk assurance committee or our purpose committee​

We are looking for people with strong background in fundraising and strategic thinking. ​

Education -  as a trustee with primary or secondary education expertise you will:​

_Contribute strategic advice to the board around education of school aged children (key stages 1 to 4)​

_Advise the board and leadership team on issues around education – which could include curriculum and traditional education, alternative education, CME or SEND provision ​

_Join either our finance and risk assurance committee or our purpose committee​

We are looking for people who are passionate and knowledgeable around the education of young people and share our commitment to equitable education for all.​

​Time commitment ​

_We hold quarterly board meetings, typically from 4pm to 7pm. Trustees are expected to attend and contribute to all meetings either in person or by joining virtually. ​

_Papers for the board meetings are sent one week prior and from time-to-time will include specific asks or requests for information and input from trustees.​

 _ You will also be asked to take part in one of our quarterly committee meetings which take place virtually two weeks prior to the board meeting, typically from 4pm to 6pm.​

_We hold one annual board away day,  typically from 10am to 5pm which takes place in person.​

_ Board Meetings are located at the We The Curious offices within the science centre in central Bristol, and our away days take place at an alternate venue in Bristol once a year. ​

_ You may also be called upon for advice or assistance by the leadership team, for example to give input on areas related to your specialism, attend additional meetings or to be present at We The Curious events. ​

Remuneration ​

This is a voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses will be covered. Refreshments are provided at Board meetings and lunch is provided at the annual strategy away day. ​

 You will have:​

_Free entry to our venue during opening hours​

_12 tickets per calendar year to give away​

_20% off in the We The Curious shop at our venue and online​

_Free parking at Millennium Square car park for meetings​

_Secure cycle storage​

Terms of appointment​

_Trustees are appointed to an initial three-year term of service (including a 12-month probationary period).​

_Trustees can serve a maximum of six years with a reappointment after the first term of three years unless the trustee holds an office, such as Chair or Deputy Chair, in which case they would be eligible for a further three-year term. The maximum term of office is nine years. ​

Probationary period​

This post is subject to a 12-month probationary period.​

What we're looking for from you​

We have ambitious plans for We The Curious and are looking for people that embody our values and have some of these skills/knowledge to help achieve our plans.​

Values​

_Embody our values. Collaborative, Creative, Inquisitive, Playful and Progressive ​

_Be committed to our vision and key manifesto pledges of Cultivating Curiosity, Including Everyone, Open Up Science,  Strive for Sustainable Futures and Build Resilience ​

_Have a positively questioning mind to help We The Curious fulfil its  vision​

_Act with integrity and in the best interests of We The Curious at all times​

_Work effectively as a member of a team and take decisions for the good of We The Curious​

Skills/Knowledge ​

We want to ensure that our board bring a variety of skills and knowledge to We The Curious. At this time we are looking for people to join us who have skills in finance, law, fundraising and education. ​

Including everyone​

We want our people to reflect our city and build a place where everyone feels like they can belong. But we know that our organisation doesn’t yet represent the rich experiences and cultures of Bristol. We think when our board reflects our city it will lead to innovative , well informed and better decision making. We’ll be more resilient, inclusive, and better equipped to fulfil our vision and mission. ​

We especially want to hear from you if:​

_You identify as and/or have lived experiences with either:  African and African Caribbean heritage, Carers, d/Deaf, Disabled, East Asian heritage, Global majority, LGBTQIA+ and/or non-binary, Neurodivergent, South Asian heritage, under 40, Visually impaired, Woman, Working Class​

I’ve never been a trustee before, should I apply?  ​

Yes! If you feel you connect with these values or have the skills/knowledge we are looking for, then we’d love to hear from you. ​

You just need to be at least 18 years old.  You don’t need formal qualifications, or previous trustee experience or a science background. We’ll give you training on good governance and opportunities for mentorship. ​

If you are an aspiring trustee or want to know more about trustees, you may find the charity commission guidance useful.  ​

Supporting you​

Training​

If you join the board, you will have an induction and onboarding experience to support you with your role and get you connected with the rest of the organisation.​

If you are a first-time trustee or want a refresher, we will provide you with training on good governance and other topics related to your role. We will also provide you with mentorship from other members of the board. 
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Support during the process​

We The Curious is a Disability Confident Employer and we welcome applications from candidates who self-assess themselves as having a disability. We will guarantee an interview to applicants who advise that they have a disability and who meet the minimum criteria for a job vacancy. To help you, under the Equality Act 2010 a person is defined as having a disability if a) they have a physical or mental impairment, and b) the impairment has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.​

We want to work with you to ensure the recruitment process is accessible for you.​

If you are disabled,  neurodivergent, or if you have a long-term health condition, we’ll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to our processes for you.​

You’ll have the opportunity to let us know about any adjustments you may need throughout the application and selection process. We’ll continue this conversation if you join us as a staff member, and we’ll work with you to make sure you have the adjustments you need to succeed in your role.​

Examples of adjustments could include:​

_providing alternative formats at every stage​

_options to apply ​

_extra time for tasks​

_providing some extra information about what to expect​

_office orientation before an in-person interview.

Application process​

Deadline for applications:11.59pm Sunday 11 January 2026​

Interview dates and location:26 January – 4 February 2026 at We The Curious​

Start date: 16 February 2026, induction process will take place during February and March. First committee meetings will take place in April. ​

Application process:​

If you would like to apply, please upload a copy of your CV and complete the application questions. The questions are designed to assess your experience and suitability for the role. ​ You have the option to answer these questions in a written format or by submitting your responses by video or audio. Please see the application form for more details. ​
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We appreciate interviews can be stressful, so we try to make them more of a conversation and a chance for you to tell us about how your qualifications, skills and experience make you the right person for the role.​​
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If you have any particular needs or requirements, please do let us know so we are able to make the required adjustments.​​

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats and kittens each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups. We have branches across the UK, all of which help our cats in different ways. Branches take in stray and abandoned cats and ensure they receive the veterinary care and attention they deserve; help raise funds, promote neutering and help spread cat welfare messages. Our branch team leader volunteers lead their local team by supporting and managing volunteers within their group, maintaining communications with both volunteers and employees, and helping promote a positive and professional image of Cats Protection.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Supporting your team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure volunteers are happy and confident
• Making sure the team observes charity best practice and compliance
• Collaborating with your Branch Development Manager (BDM) to plan volunteer activity
• Leading the team to follow Cats Protection policies, procedures and guidelines
• Monitoring expenditure and helping ensure long term financial stability of the volunteer group
• Organising and chairing team meetings
• Acting as an ambassador for Cats Protection