Volunteer roles

Volunteers Facilitators for elop’s Training & Education Service
elop’s Training and Education Service delivers workshops; training programmes; and consultancy to professionals and organisations working with the LGBT+ community. As a specialist in LGBT+ Mental Health and Wellbeing, we want to raise awareness of the challenges faced by our community and help organisations become more LGBT+ inclusive and affirmative. Our training programmes get people talking, thinking and planning for change that makes a real difference to LGBT+ people’s lives.
All our volunteer facilitators must positively identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/ or trans (Schedule
9, Part 1, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010 applies).
We are looking to better represent the diversity of our community and actively encourage
 applications from people that identify as male, trans/ non-binary and/or from Black Asian and
Minority Ethnic Groups.

Training Facilitator Volunteer Role Description
By joining the Training & Education Team you will have the opportunity to:
• Facilitate and co-facilitate workshops and training programmes to a range of external
organisations, including schools
• Design and deliver learning activities and presentations, both online and in-person
• Support organisations to improve their services for LGBT+ people
• Be given relevant training and supervision to ensure your development
• Be part of a dynamic team that offers a range of learning opportunities
Induction training will be provided alongside line management support.
Training Facilitator Volunteer Person Specification
Applicants should:
• have experience of presenting to groups, either online or in-person
• be a confident communicator
• be able to think on their feet and respond to questions that can feel challenging
• have awareness of key issues that LGBT+ people face
• understand the impact of discrimination and stigma on mental health

We are currently recruiting volunteers to support our Mental Health services, which include group co-facilitators, initial appointment hosts, activity facilitators, mental health plan facilitators.

HeadsOut is a strengths-based crisis prevention, intervention and wellbeing LGBT+ support service.

Our aim is to enhance people’s wellbeing and functioning by focusing on their strengths and resources, reinforcing resilience and enhancing protective external factors, including creating safe spaces, community connection, a sense of belonging, empowerment and affirmation. 

By joining the HeadsOut Team you will:

• Support people who experience mental distress
• Make a positive contribution to the LGBT+ community
• Be given relevant training and support 

Our services are delivered on various days and times across the week and weekends, plus during the day and evenings, so there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. 

Respecting diversity, understanding and upholding professional boundaries and confidentiality are of course fundamental to all of our work and you will be required support this. 

All our volunteer facilitators must positively identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/ or trans (Schedule 9, Part 1, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010 applies).

Support the work of St John Ambulance in your community by volunteering as a Community Volunteer, an exciting new role which is designed to revamp how volunteering looks in the modern world; flexible, innovative and is open for all.

We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient. Community Volunteers can choose from a wide selection of activities – including fundraising, talks and demonstrations, supporting at events, volunteer welfare, social media and administration support.

Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives.

Give as much (or little) time as you can afford. With this new role, you simply volunteer when it works for you. That means you can give as much time as you like or as little as 24 hours across a whole year, whenever it suits you. It’s perfect for busy lives, changing schedules, or for anyone seeking a low-commitment involvement. 

The Community Volunteer provides an easy way to stay connected and contribute meaningfully to your local community. Here are some examples of what you could do: 

• Community fundraising
• Talks and demonstrations
• Support at events
• Volunteer welfare
• Community Roadshows
• Supporting national campaigns
• Counting and banking money
• Booking events
• Supporting Networks  
• Administration support
• Writing thank you and community letters
• Media and social media
• Community news and Network newsletters 

Through volunteering as a Community Volunteer, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.

Once we have completed your selection and screening for this role, we will provide you with an induction, as well as invite you to any necessary training sessions. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

The Community Volunteer role is an exciting new role that St John Ambulance has rolled out, that would give you the chance to be the heart of Plymouth's Community spirit. From supporting large community events on the Hoe to small fundraisers or community engagements our Community Volunteers are at the heart of bringing people together to help raise vital funds to keep our work going. This is your chance to meet new people, make new friends, build confidence and learn new skills, and play a key role in making Plymouth Networks campaigns successful. Whether its supporting a local event, or inspiring others to get involved, you'll be making a real difference to the city of Plymouth. A few hours of your time can have such a huge impact. Apply today to be a part of something truly special!

Interviews and Enrolments will be held as a roll on basis as the applications for the role are received.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 17/12/2025

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

At St John Ambulance, we are looking to develop our volunteering offer and become an even more integral part of our communities through delivering community first aid and education. 

We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient by sharing your first aid skills and knowledge. As a Community First Aider, you’ll deliver first aid to those in need through local events, as well as provide education to the public so that the ripple effect of First Aid grows.

Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives. 

Through volunteering as a Community First Aider, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

From fireworks on the Hoe to rugby at Plymouth Albion, you could be one of a team keeping our city safe. Our Community First Aiders support everything from major council events like the British Fireworks Championships, to festive Christmas markets, local 10k runs, and community fetes across Plymouth. With full training provided, you'll gain lifesaving skills, join a supportive team, and make a difference at unforgettable events.

Requirements for the role are: Committing 80 hours per year to the role (approximately one day per month). Physical requirements for the role at events requires moving around and treating people. This would include kneeling by a collapsed patient and delivering chest compressions for at least 2 minutes without stopping). To be able to keep up-to-date with online training.

Interviews and Enrolments will be held as a roll on basis as the applications for roles are received.

Training for the role will be given through a Community First Aider course, which will include training in patient assessment and basic life support, managing trauma in emergency settings, and recognising signs and symptoms in both adults and children. You will also determine when to escalate care, seek senior assistance, and handle medications, interventions, and patient communications whilst ensure safety in your role. Essential training such as safeguarding, health and safety, and GDPR will also be given.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 17/12/2025

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

elop runs a programme of weekly and monthly LGBTQ+ social, support and wellbeing clubs, groups, meet-ups and events; provided by and for LGBTQ+ communities.

Joining our LGBTQ+ volunteer facilitator team you will be part of an enthusiastic and dedicated team who value & appreciate the benefit of face-to-face socialising & networking, supporting LGBT people to come together in a welcoming, safe and supportive environment with opportunities to meet new people, form new friendships, gain peer support and much more. 

Each of elop’s dedicated clubs, groups or meet-ups run planned activities that supports shared interaction, positive LGBTQ+ identities and a feeling of being valued.

Volunteering in this role will give you opportunities to contribute & support the planning & promotion of group programmes, help in organising & facilitating sessions, along with supporting & enabling the involvement, voice & inclusion of all members attending, ensuring a welcome, supported, safe and comfortable environment for all.

Our clubs, groups, meet-ups and activities are delivered on various days and times across the week and weekends, plus during the day and evenings, so there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. 

You may already have some previous experience of activity facilitation, which is fantastic; however it isn’t necessary to come with all the skills & experiences already on board, just a friendly or outgoing personality with good communication abilities, the rest you’ll be supported to develop. 

Respecting diversity, understanding and upholding professional boundaries and confidentiality are of course fundamental to all of our work and you will be required support this. 

What you can expect as part of Team elop is to feel proud of being part of our dynamic team & volunteer community, to develop confidence, have enjoyment and know your contribution really does make a difference.

We know life can be busy, but ask all group volunteers to make a 6 month minimum commitment or around 2-3 hours a week average. 

All our volunteer facilitators must positively identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/ or trans (Schedule 9, Part 1, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010 applies).

RAMFEL is a charity supporting vulnerable migrants to access justice and providing vital support in moments of individual crisis.

RAMFEL runs a busy client facing service seeing over 5000 clients a year. We provide legal advice, casework support, destitution support and crisis intervention.

RAMFEL is offering volunteering positions for applicants who are looking to gain work experience in the legal sector. We are committing to offer relevant training and experience that would help applicants to enter the job market and for this reason, we are looking for applicants with no/little experience in the legal sector. We particularly value applicants with lived experience.

Working under the supervision of legal advisers and specialist caseworkers, our volunteer will assist with and follow up on immigration legal work whilst gaining valuable training and experience. The volunteer will also assist clients directly with eVisa applications during drop ins.

What will you receive?

• Role specific training on eVisas and issues affecting vulnerable migrants
• Training and hands-on experience in immigration and human rights law, under the supervision of an experienced legal adviser
• Incentive and support to take IAA (Immigration Advice Authority) exam (free of charge) to qualify as an IAA advisor up to level 3
• Ongoing individual supervision and meetings
• Lunch and travel expenses (up to £10 lunch, up to £10 travel)

Where will you be working?

For the first week, you will receive online training and you will be then shadowing your supervisor in the Stratford office.

After this initial period, you will be required to attend the office in Stratford/Ilford or partners’ locations once a week. Work from home is generally not expected as part of this role.

What happens if you apply and you are shortlisted?

• We will interview applicants on 15 December
• You will be asked to complete a DBS check before starting (this is a requirement of working with vulnerable adults and children)
• You will be asked to provide a reference
• Mandatory training for the role and induction will take place on 14 and 20 January 2026

Reporting to: Immigration Advisor

Role description

1. Attending eVisa drop ins and assist clients directly with eVisa applications (we currently run the drop in on Tuesday)
2. Support clients to create and/or maintain their UKVI account
3. Keeping accurate case records on the data base
4. Working closely with the immigration advisors / caseworker and assisting them in advising clients
5. Drafting advice letter to clients (under supervision)
6. Completing forms and drafting letters to the Home Office (under supervision)
7. Preparing application bundles
8. Conducting legal research
9. Dealing with external agencies / advocating for clients with agencies who have stretched resources
10. Applying for cash grants applications when required
11. Take on other administrative tasks as identified by the supervisor

Person Specification

Essential requirements:

1. A commitment to volunteer at least one day a week for six months and reliability
2. A calm and professional manner, capable of dealing with complex information whilst under pressure
3. Good knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Outlook, Word, and Excel
4. Excellent organisational, written and verbal skills
5. Speak in fluent English
6. Works well individually as well as within a team
7. Detail oriented and committed to meeting deadlines
8. Ability to problem solve in a fast-paced environment
9. Strong interest in human rights, migration or asylum issues

For more details, please refer to the job specification document.

RAMFEL is a charity that supports vulnerable migrants to access justice and that provides vital support in moments of individual crisis.

The role offers an opportunity to join our foodbank team and make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable migrants. Many of our clients face difficult circumstances, unable to work or access benefits while awaiting decisions on their immigration status from the Home Office. With family ties in the UK or safety concerns in their home countries, they often find themselves in precarious situations, at risk of destitution and exploitation. Our foodbank serves as a practical means of support, providing essential assistance to those in need. We are looking for dedicated individuals to help us continue this vital work.

What will I receive?

- Lunch and travel expenses (up to £10 lunch, up to £10 travel)

- Role specific training, training on issues affecting vulnerable migrants

- Ongoing individual supervision and volunteer meetings

Where are we?

Our foodbank is based in Ilford at Cardinal Heenan Centre, 326 High Road, Ilford, IG1 1QP

What happens if I apply?

• We will interview applicants on 15 December
• You will be asked to complete a DBS check before starting (this is a requirement of working with vulnerable adults and children)
• You will be asked to provide a reference
• Mandatory training for the role and induction will take place on 14 and 20 January 2026

Reporting to: Office Manager

Time Period: We ask for a minimum of a 6-month commitment during our foodbank which happens on Thursday between 9.30 am and 4.00 pm.

Role description:

1. To greet clients and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for them
2. Assist with setting up the foodbank, which involves some manual lifting and arranging supplies
3. To distribute items to individual service users
4. To keep accurate records of the needs of service users
5. To complete necessary administrative duties associated with the delivery of the foodbank service
6. Assist with tidying up and clearing the foodbank after it closes
7. Assist in providing SIM cards to clients when necessary
8. Assist in applying for destitution grants for clients who most need them.

You will be required at all times to respect:

1. RAMFEL’s confidentiality and any other relevant policy

2. Safeguarding policies

Person Specification

Requirements:

(E=Essential, D=Desirable)

1. A commitment to volunteer on Thursdays at RAMFEL’s Ilford office.
2. A commitment to RAMFEL’s aims and objectives.
3. Ability to demonstrate behaviour in keeping with RAMFEL’s core values of teamwork, respect, integrity and fairness.
4. Excellent organisational, written and verbal communication skills.
5. Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
6. Demonstrate ability to work well both independently and as part of a team, displaying flexibility and willingness to provide support where needed.
7. Keep the people we support at the heart of what you do.
8. Maintain professional boundaries.
9. Ability to volunteer in a multicultural environment.
10. Ability to undertake some manual lifting

Please submit a CV and cover letter detailing how you meet the requirements mentioned in the person specification. Both your CV and cover letter should be in PDF form. Candidates who have been shortlisted will undergo interviews on 15 December 2025.

Video Editor (International Humanity Foundation)

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your interest in volunteering as a Video Editor for the International Humanity Foundation (IHF)! We are looking for talented and creative individuals to help us produce visually compelling content that highlights our mission to provide education to underprivileged children.

Role Requirements

As a Video Editor, you will:

Edit raw footage into polished and engaging videos.

Add graphics, animations, and subtitles to enhance video quality.

Collaborate with the podcast and media teams to create promotional materials.

Work on highlight reels and trailers to showcase IHF’s work and podcast content.

Ensure all videos align with IHF’s branding and storytelling goals.

Skills We Value

Proficiency in video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve).

Creative storytelling through visual media.

Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.

Experience in graphic design or animation is a plus.

A collaborative and flexible attitude.

Benefits of Volunteering with IHF

By joining our team, you will:

Gain valuable experience in video editing and storytelling for a global nonprofit.

Build your portfolio with impactful content.

Collaborate with a diverse, creative, and passionate team.

Contribute to a cause that empowers underprivileged children through education.

Receive a certificate of recognition and appreciation for your contributions.

About IHF

The International Humanity Foundation is a nonprofit organization focused on providing education to children in underserved communities. We believe in creating stories that inspire change and empower lives.

Volunteer Opportunity: International Humanity Foundation (IHF) Kenya Center, Nakuru City

About Us

The International Humanity Foundation (IHF) is a 501(c)(3) international non-profit organization founded in 2001. We provide education and safe Children's Homes to impoverished children in Indonesia, Kenya, and Thailand through our five IHF Centers.

Our Mission

1. Educate Marginalized Children: Activate their highest potential and nurture loving communities. The happiness of our world's children rises above all political and religious differences and equates to the quality of our world's happiness tomorrow.

2. Educate Global Citizens: Through communication and real-life experiences, both online and in person, we teach about the realities of marginalized communities and impart practical skills for aiding needed efforts, thus giving a voice to the voiceless.

Our Vision

“To develop global leaders with cross-cultural experiences and respect for different cultures from varying socioeconomic backgrounds, equipped to make decisions that serve, positively impact, promote, and protect the dignity and humanity of people everywhere.”

Volunteer Role

We are looking for dedicated volunteers to join our team at the IHF Kenya Center in Nakuru City. Volunteers will gain invaluable experience in international team leadership, coordination of center activities, and engagement with the local community.

Responsibilities

• Participate in rotational assignments in the core components of the International Humanity Foundation, including:

  • Center operations

  • Legalities

  • Community development

  • Finance

  • Fundraising

  • Media and communications

  • And more

• Assist in coordinating center activities

• Report to the CEO and Center Directors

What We Offer

• Accommodation: Room with bed and mattress provided.

• Electricity and Wi-Fi: Stable network to carry on online tasks.

• Global Leadership Development (GLD): A one-year training program equipping you with skills to run an international organization as a director.

• Stipend:

  • $35/month for the first 3 months

  • $65/month for months 4-6

  • $85/month for months 7-9

  • $100/month for months 10-12

• Potential Employment: After one year of successfully completing the GLD training, volunteers may be considered for employment positions within the organization, if available.

Requirements

• Minimum of a high school diploma

• Basic computer knowledge

• Smartphone for communication

• Valid police clearance/good conduct certificate issued by the government

• Fluent in English

• Able to use Zoom

• Honest, well-behaved individual with no criminal record

• Ability to work with children and adhere to both national and international laws governing our operations

Join Us

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of marginalized children and eager to develop your leadership skills in a global context, we invite you to apply for this rewarding volunteer position. Help us build a brighter future, one child and one community at a time.

Apply Now

Volunteer Opportunity: International Humanity Foundation (IHF) Thailand Center, Chiang Rai

About Us

The International Humanity Foundation (IHF) is a 501(c)(3) international non-profit organization founded in 2001. We provide education and safe Children's Homes to impoverished children in Indonesia, Kenya, and Thailand through our five IHF Centers.

Our Mission

1. Educate Marginalized Children: Activate their highest potential and nurture loving communities. The happiness of our world's children rises above all political and religious differences and equates to the quality of our world's happiness tomorrow.

2. Educate Global Citizens: Through communication and real-life experiences, both online and in person, we teach about the realities of marginalized communities and impart practical skills for aiding needed efforts, thus giving a voice to the voiceless.

Our Vision

“To develop global leaders with cross-cultural experiences and respect for different cultures from varying socioeconomic backgrounds, equipped to make decisions that serve, positively impact, promote, and protect the dignity and humanity of people everywhere.”

Volunteer Role

We are looking for dedicated volunteers to join our team at the IHF Thailand Center in Chiang Rai. Volunteers will gain invaluable experience in international team leadership, coordination of center activities, and engagement with the local community.

Responsibilities

• Participate in rotational assignments in the core components of the International Humanity Foundation, including:

  • Center operations

  • Legalities

  • Community development

  • Finance

  • Fundraising

  • Media and communications

  • And more

• Assist in coordinating center activities

• Report to the CEO and Center Directors

What We Offer

• Accommodation: Room with bed and mattress provided.

• Electricity and Wi-Fi: Stable network to carry on online tasks.

• Global Leadership Development (GLD): A one-year training program equipping you with skills to run an international organization as a director.

• Stipend:

  • $35/month for the first 3 months

  • $65/month for months 4-6

  • $85/month for months 7-9

  • $100/month for months 10-12

• Potential Employment: After one year of successfully completing the GLD training, volunteers may be considered for employment positions within the organization, if available.

Requirements

• Minimum of a high school diploma

• Basic computer knowledge

• Smartphone for communication

• Valid police clearance/good conduct certificate issued by the government

• Fluent in English

• Able to use Zoom

• Honest, well-behaved individual with no criminal record

• Ability to work with children and adhere to both national and international laws governing our operations

Join Us

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of marginalized children and eager to develop your leadership skills in a global context, we invite you to apply for this rewarding volunteer position. Help us build a brighter future, one child and one community at a time.

Apply Now

Join the Quality Control Team at the International Humanity Foundation (IHF)!

Are you detail-oriented and passionate about maintaining high standards? Do you have a knack

for HR and a commitment to ensuring quality education and training? The International

Humanity Foundation (IHF) is looking for dedicated volunteers to join our Quality Control Team!

Role: Quality Control Team Member (Volunteer)

Responsibilities:

- Monitor and evaluate the quality of training provided to all IHF members.

- Ensure that active members receive comprehensive and effective training.

- Collaborate with the HR team to identify and address training needs and improvements.

- Maintain accurate records of training sessions and assessments.

- Provide feedback and recommendations for enhancing training programs.

Requirements:

- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

- Experience or interest in Human Resources (HR) is a plus.

- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

- Commitment to IHF’s mission and values.

- Ability to dedicate a few hours per week to this volunteer role.

What We Offer:

- A chance to make a meaningful impact on global education and humanitarian efforts.

- Experience in quality control and HR functions within an international NGO.

- Opportunities for personal and professional growth.

- A supportive and collaborative team environment.

About Us

IHF is a global NGO dedicated to providing quality education and support to children and

communities in need. Our mission is to make a positive impact through education, volunteerism,

and humanitarian efforts.

Join us in our mission to ensure quality training for all IHF members and help us make a

difference in the world!

We look forward to welcoming you to our team!

____________________________________________________________________________

Volunteer Role: Graphic Designer & Brand Guardian (Remote, UK)

Help MINDSET Charity Establish a Recognised Visual Identity

MINDSET Charity is a new UK organisation dedicated to supporting men on their mental wellbeing and self-improvement journey. We are building a powerful community through activities, events, and projects that bring men together and offer a non-judgemental space to learn and grow.

To achieve national recognition and trust, we need a strong, professional, and consistent visual brand. We are seeking a talented Graphic Designer who can help us elevate our image from the ground up.

The Opportunity: Define Our Look

We have an initial logo concept created using AI, but we need a professional touch to refine it, ensure it's print/web-ready, and establish the visual rules for our brand. This role can be a high-impact, one-off project or an ongoing, flexible commitment.

Your Key Responsibilities

Phase 1: Foundational Brand Development (Crucial One-Off Project)

• Logo Refinement: Take our AI-generated logo concept and professionally refine it (e.g., finalise vectors, colour codes, spacing, and ensure scalability).

• Brand Guidelines: Create a comprehensive, easy-to-use Brand Guide that sets the rules for all future communications. This must include:

  • Primary and secondary colour palettes (with HEX, RGB, and CMYK codes).

  • Typography guidelines (web and print fonts).

  • Logo usage (clear space, minimum size, approved variations).

  • Imagery style and tone.

Phase 2: Ongoing Design Support (If Interested)

• Digital Content: Design compelling social media assets (posts, stories, profile banners), website banners, and branded imagery.

• Print Materials: Develop professional print materials, including event roller banners, information booklets/brochures, and promotional flyers.

• Templates: Create branded templates (e.g., for presentations, emails, and simple documents) for the wider team to use.

Your Essential Skills & Tools

• Design Proficiency: Expert knowledge of design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, or equivalent professional tools).

• Brand Expertise: Experience in developing or working with corporate/charity brand guidelines.

• Portfolio: A strong portfolio demonstrating clean, professional design work and an eye for modern, accessible aesthetics.

• Remote Ready: Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and communicate effectively via email/video calls.

• Mission Alignment: An understanding of and passion for the mission of supporting men's mental wellbeing is highly desirable.

Why Volunteer with MINDSET Charity?

• Build a Brand: This is a chance to put your mark on a brand from its infancy and create the visual identity that will be seen nationwide.

• Flexible Commitment: Choose whether you want to focus solely on the crucial Brand Guide project or join us for ongoing, flexible support that fits your schedule.

• Purpose: Use your creative skills to directly impact a charity dedicated to addressing a vital social issue.

If you are ready to design the look of our national movement, we want to hear from you!

To Apply: Please send a brief email outlining your interest, your commitment preference (one-off or ongoing), and a link to your online portfolio.

MINDSET Charity

Supporting Men Through Their Mental Wellbeing and Self Improvement

Wicksteed Park opened in 1921, making it the oldest theme park on UK mainland. Its founder, Charles Wicksteed purchased the land in 1913. His initial goal was to create a model village for the local community, however following World War One and housing reforms, Charles looked to develop a park for people to spend their leisure time. He set up a charitable trust in 1916 and went on to build a number of prefabricated houses – some of which still exist and are within the park grounds.

A century ago, Charles Wicksteed put into practice his deep-held belief that all children, no matter how rich or poor, should have somewhere safe and fun to play outdoors. Public parks in Charles’ own youth had been very formal places where you walked sedately along the paths, keeping off the grass. He was determined to provide something different and here at Wicksteed he did just that, using his engineering skills to provide a new and exciting element to public open spaces.

Swings, slides and roundabouts, parks and playgrounds are the background to many of our freest and most joyful childhood memories. They are something that we all share, generations of us, from all over Britain, but this is where it all started. Wicksteed Park is truly somewhere amazing and very special.

It is good to see this story of Kettering’s contribution to our nation’s health and happiness and to remember that Wicksteed is a place with an incredible heritage and an exciting future.  Wicksteed Park is much more than an amusement park and continues to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to play and explore in its beautiful grounds.

Still delivering its core heritage but focusing on the connections with Kettering and wider communities, Wicksteed Charitable Trust has an opportunity to grow and transform, ensuring we are contributing to our communities’ wellbeing for the next century.  It is thanks to the value, care, generosity, determination of our amazing volunteers that ensures the park has continued to deliver over some challenging years for the park.

We are now looking to expand our Trustee Board and are looking for people from a range of backgrounds who understand our community, the challenges that modern families face and have the drive and determination to deliver strategic objectives to build on our links and our regional presence.  We would also like to hear from people who can bring professional expertise especially in areas including Law, Finance, Leisure and Tourism and Land Management.

As a Trustee at Wicksteed Park you will join a small team of existing Trustees. We are looking for individuals who will bring their own experience to complement our collaborative approach.  You will be asked to speak out, offer opinion and be a critical friend, enabler and constructive challenge to the team..

 About Us

Charles Wicksteed’s dream was to provide free play for all.  Today The Wicksteed Trust’s main objective is to provide a safe environment for people of all ages to relax and play and to provide a focus for community activity. Wicksteed Park is a Grade II listed Historic Park with four County Wildlife Sites and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

We play an important role in Kettering contributing to our communities’ health and happiness.  Our aim is to grow and develop our offering to Regional and National communities promoting what Wicksteed Park has to offer.

Role 

Trustees are responsible for making sure the charity stays true to its mission and vision.  Being a Trustee of an historic, community-based charity, means making decisions that will impact on the communities we serve across in Kettering and the wider county, enriching lives and providing a focus for community activity.

Trustees, led by a Chair, have independent control over, and legal responsibility for, the charity’s management and administration. They act as the ultimate decision makers of the organisation, protecting the interests of the members and the public. They agree the strategy and hold the executives to account for the management of the organisation.

Responsibilities

Governance

· Understand the charity’s purposes as set out in its governing document and ensure compliance to law and other relevant regulations.

· Ensure the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these in partnership with other Trustees.

· Ensure the sustainability of the charity and sound risk management.

· Oversee what the charity does and what it needs to achieve.

· Be responsible for the performance of the charity and for its 'corporate' behaviour.

· Act as a guardian of the charity's assets, both tangible and intangible, taking all due care over their security, deployment, and proper application.

· Ensure the charity's governance is of the highest possible standard.

Leadership

· Contribute to the development of the charity‘s long term strategy.

· Raise public profile and promote the reputation of the organisation.

Financial Management

· Ensure the charity’s assets are only used to support or carry out its purposes.

· Evaluate risks to the assets or reputation.

· Monitor and assess the organisation’s results in relation to the agreed strategy, budget and implementation plan.

In addition to the above duties, 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 sub committees, 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.

Person Specification

The Board of Trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas:

· Law

·        Finance

· Land Management

· Leisure and Tourism

Essential

· Ability to commit to essential Board and Sub Committee meetings and participate on any further critical meetings or email discussions as appropriate.

· Good communication skills across all levels.

· Excellent planning and organisational ability with long term focus.

· Genuine passion and interest in the charity’s work.

· Integrity and openness.

· An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship.

Desirable

· Understanding of charity governance, legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities.

· Understanding of the voluntary sector.

Length of appointment

Our Trustees are appointed for an initial three-year term, and can be re-appointed for up to two more three-year terms (there is a maximum of nine years’ continuous service).

Time commitment

The estimated Trustee time commitment is a minimum of 6 half day full trust meetings each year (held every other month), plus reading and preparation time.  Board meetings will be held at Wicksteed Park in Kettering.  Additional commitment to any sub-committee or ad-hoc duties may be reasonably required.  Sub-Committee meetings may be held online and it is expected these will be held quarterly.

Remuneration

The Trustee appointment is voluntary but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in line with the expenses policy.

Location

Wicksteed Park, Kettering, NN15 6NJ.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Wicksteed Charitable Trust follows the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion and seeks a diverse Trust Board to meet the needs of the organisation.

Are you a HR professional? Could you give an hour a week to tackle pregnancy and maternity discrimination? Then we need you!

We’re not going to sugar-coat it, things aren’t great for working parents and pregnant women. It can feel frustrating and a bit depressing at times, but by being part of the Pregnant Then Screwed volunteer team, you get to turn that frustration into something positive. In the last year the fantastic volunteers on our Advice Line have spoken to over 5000 women and parents, collectively providing around 40 hours of free support and advice every week. Hundreds of women and parents call our Advice Line every day, but with a small team of volunteers we are only able to answer a fraction of those calls—this is where you come in.

We are looking for brilliant HR professionals who want to help Pregnant Then Screwed tackle the Motherhood Penalty by becoming a Volunteer HR Advisor.

Our Volunteer Advisors give around 1-2 hours a week of their time to the Advice Line. They use their HR knowledge to offer a kind, empathetic support and advice to help people to identify and challenge pregnancy and maternity discrimination in the workplace.

About the role

Role Title: Volunteer HR Advisor 
Location: Home-based (UK)
Reporting To: Head of Support Services

Time Commitment

The Advice Line is open Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm, with various available shifts during those times. We ask volunteers to give 1-2 hours per week on the Advice Line for a minimum of three months. 

Alternative time commitments can be considered and discussed as part of your application, so please do include any information that might be useful in your application form.

Main Role Purpose

The Advice Line HR Advisors play a vital role in providing support and guidance to working parents facing unfair treatment or discrimination in the workplace via our advice line. Volunteers will offer advice, listen empathetically, and provide information about employee rights and available resources. This role is critical in empowering parents to make informed decisions and navigate workplace challenges effectively.

Essential requirements

• Minimum CIPD level 5 Diploma in People Management with one professional reference.
• Knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and policies related to pregnancy, maternity leave, and discrimination.
• Access to a mobile phone/laptop/tablet to receive calls. You will not be charged for calls and your number will not be shared.
• Access to a reliable and secure WIFI connection. Public WIFI is not suitable for this role.
• Excellent active and empathetic listening skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey information clearly and concisely.
• A kind and welcoming telephone manner.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Comfortable using online communication tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer incoming phone calls to the PTS Advice Line from individuals seeking support and advice.
• Listen actively, empathise, and provide HR advice and guidance to support callers with their enquiries.
• Signpost to further information and other support organisations if necessary.
• Make referrals to our legal partner if required.
• Record all details of the call on our CRM system.
• Maintain professionalism in all interactions, adhering to all Pregnant Then Screwed guidelines and policies.

What you can expect from PTS

• The opportunity to use your skill set to tackle the Motherhood Penalty and make a meaningful impact.
• An onboarding and induction period which can be completed at your own pace.
• Support from the PTS staff team and volunteer network.
• Access to our Volunteer Training Hub.
• Opportunities to help us further develop and shape our Support Services.