Access To Health Volunteer Roles in Manchester, Greater Manchester
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you love to support and empower people? We are looking for compassionate champions to join our volunteer mentoring programme. Help mentees build confidence, get established in community and develop independence. The Build mentoring programme supports survivors of modern slavery. A volunteer mentor is paired with a co mentor meeting fortnightly in the community with a mentee; being a friendly support, setting goals, exploring opportunities and life skills. All volunteer mentors are supported and accountable to the Build Coordinators. This role is voluntary and unpaid (costs incurred for refreshments related to the mentor role will be reimbursed).
The Role
- To create a safe, compassionate, and healthy mentoring relationship
- Provide the mentee with tools and techniques to navigate a pathway to achieve things that are important to them
- Provide practical support to the mentee where appropriate (eg signposting)
- Support a mentee to identify and establish goals and life skills that are important to them
- Liaise with the mentee and fellow mentor to arrange safe and suitable meeting places including date and time
- Debrief with your co-mentor after each meeting and provide a brief written record of the discussion for the Mentoring Coordinator
- Work with your co-mentor to model ‘healthy community’
- Manage the trio’s refreshment expenses for reimbursement
Skills you need
- Compassion, empathy and active listening skills
- Ability to be able to help people feel at ease and build confidence
- To help people draw out personal goals and things that are important to them
- Have a passion and desire for wanting to transform and support the lives of people
- Be sensitive to someone who has experienced trauma
- Ability to keep confidence and professional boundaries
- Reliability and good time keeping
- Commitment to safeguarding and a willingness to raise concerns where necessary
- Experience of supporting others navigate and integrate into community
- Access to car/public transport and flexibility around location
What you will get from us
- Online or face to face training prior to working with mentees:
- Volunteer Induction and specialised programme training
- e-learning courses relating to Safeguarding, Data Protection and Equality & Diversity, IT and Data Induction
- Ongoing support sessions from the Build team
- Ongoing training with an emphasis on trauma informed practice Commitment
- 12-month commitment period
- Meet with mentee and co-mentor fortnightly for 1-2 hours
- Commitment to write up debriefs and any relevant actions between meetups
- To able to complete all required training
- To be able to attend a minimum of 4 training sessions per year
All roles within the mentoring programme need:
- Mandatory checks including DBS
- Two satisfactory references
- Completion of induction training
- An informal interview and introductory period
- Have a passion and desire for wanting to help and support people
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
JOB DESCRIPTION
Why we need your help
The Marie Curie Dementia Befriending service is provided by trained volunteers who offer one-to-one companionship and support to people with a terminal illness that have dementia and their families. The service would not be able to reach those most in need if it was not for the commitment and hard work of the volunteers delivering the service.
Befriender volunteers provide companionship and emotional support, practical support, short breaks for carers and help with signposting for information and support.
What we need you to do
Your role will include, some of, but not restricted to the following tasks:
- Complete all initial mandatory Dementia Befriender volunteer training, as well as any refresher training whilst you are a Marie Curie volunteer
- Carry out weekly visits with the person(s) you’re supporting, as agreed with the Volunteer Co-ordinator. This could be in a variety of settings, for example in a family’s home, in a care home or out in the community.
- Provide one to one companionship and support. For example - Offering a listening ear and spending time engaging in everyday conversation, activities or hobbies with the person you are supporting. Accompanying them to an appointment, social groups or taking short trips out. Helping with small daily tasks eg making tea or accessing the internet. Allowing carers to have a short break. Signposting to relevant local support services or finding out information as requested.
(This list is only an outline as support will vary according to the needs of those using the service. Dementia Befriender volunteers do not provide nursing or personal care, or offer counselling or advice)
- Driving clients to pre-arranged health or social care (eg to chemotherapy appointments or day therapy at the hospice)
- Follow all mandatory procedures that form part of the Dementia Befriending service. Examples include submitting written report forms, identifying and briefing a lone worker Buddy, and following procedures for lone worker safety.
- Keep your manager informed of any changes to the situation, or any significant happenings in connection to the person you’re supporting and/or their family, either in person or by phone
- Be reliable and committed to regularly spending time with someone and offering support
- Attend group events and training sessions for Marie Curie Dementia Befriender volunteers
- Attend individual sessions with your Volunteer Co-ordinator as required
- Represent the Marie Curie Dementia Befriending service positively to those using the service
- Support with Advanced Care Planning for clients
What skills or experience do you need?
- Commitment and reliability - able to keep appointments and volunteer for approximately 3 hours a week
- Patience, empathy and emotional stability
- An understanding of the importance of confidentiality
- Willing to be flexible to the needs of the individual
- Ability to operate within the boundaries of the role
- A friendly and sensitive approach
- Excellent listening skills and an ability to build a rapport with others Respect for individuals, regardless of their race, gender, culture, religion, disability, sexual orientation and marital status
What we can offer you
- An excellent opportunity to build on your skills in a charity environment
- An induction, training, support and supervision in your role
- Agreed reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
What we ask of you
- To provide two references from non-family members and other relevant documents related to the role
- To keep to all the charity’s policies and guidelines
- To complete an induction and any training related to the role
Marie Curie is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of patients and their families and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Marie Curie will treat all volunteers fairly and with respect. We will not discriminate on the basis of disability, ethnicity, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, sex (i.e. gender), sexual orientation, religion or faith, or gender reassignment. We will not discriminate on the basis of age, unless the responsibilities of a role require us to do so in order to safeguard our volunteers and/or service users.
ABOUT US
Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and 6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left.
Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work. We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.
Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you love to support and empower people? We are looking for compassionate champions to join our volunteer mentoring programme. Help mentees build confidence, get established in community and develop independence. The Build mentoring programme supports survivors of modern slavery. A volunteer mentor is paired with a co mentor meeting fortnightly in the community with a mentee; being a friendly support, setting goals, exploring opportunities and life skills. All volunteer mentors are supported and accountable to the Build Coordinators. This role is voluntary and unpaid (costs incurred for refreshments related to the mentor role will be reimbursed).
The Role
- To create a safe, compassionate, and healthy mentoring relationship
- Provide the mentee with tools and techniques to navigate a pathway to achieve things that are important to them
- Provide practical support to the mentee where appropriate (eg signposting)
- Support a mentee to identify and establish goals and life skills that are important to them
- Liaise with the mentee and fellow mentor to arrange safe and suitable meeting places including date and time
- Debrief with your co-mentor after each meeting and provide a brief written record of the discussion for the Mentoring Coordinator
- Work with your co-mentor to model ‘healthy community’
- Manage the trio’s refreshment expenses for reimbursement
Skills you need
- Compassion, empathy and active listening skills
- Ability to be able to help people feel at ease and build confidence
- To help people draw out personal goals and things that are important to them
- Have a passion and desire for wanting to transform and support the lives of people
- Be sensitive to someone who has experienced trauma
- Ability to keep confidence and professional boundaries
- Reliability and good time keeping
- Commitment to safeguarding and a willingness to raise concerns where necessary
- Experience of supporting others navigate and integrate into community
- Access to car/public transport and flexibility around location
What you will get from us
- Online or face to face training prior to working with mentees:
- Volunteer Induction and specialised programme training
- e-learning courses relating to Safeguarding, Data Protection and Equality & Diversity, IT and Data Induction
- Ongoing support sessions from the Build team
- Ongoing training with an emphasis on trauma informed practice Commitment
- 12-month commitment period
- Meet with mentee and co-mentor fortnightly for 1-2 hours
- Commitment to write up debriefs and any relevant actions between meetups
- To able to complete all required training
- To be able to attend a minimum of 4 training sessions per year
All roles within the mentoring programme need:
- Mandatory checks including DBS
- Two satisfactory references
- Completion of induction training
- An informal interview and introductory period
- Have a passion and desire for wanting to help and support people
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we need your help:
Understanding our local Devon Communities and hearing from the residents who live here, especially those with lived experiences, is vitally important to ensure that Marie Curie creates, develops and improves services based on what people need and ensure more people have the best experience for in death, dying and bereavement.
We are looking for community engagement volunteers to work alongside our local team in Devon to:
Engage with and bring together people in communities (especially those who are poorly served by end of life care), to understand their experiences.
Support Marie Curie in co -designing and developing new and existing services to support people at the end of life or in their bereavement.
Feel confident in sharing their story and listening to others in an open and sensitive way.
Engage with local community groups/services to raise awareness of the range of Marie Curie support services (including our national services)
Help us to promote and support initiatives around awareness days including National Day of Reflection and other awareness weeks in your local area.
Identify and connect with local community groups to understand more about what they offer and how we can work together
What does the role involve?
Below is an idea of some of the activities that may be involved with this role:
Engage with local citizens to listen to and learn from their experiences of end-of-life care and bereavement support and share what you learn with the local Marie Curie team.
Engage with local organisations to understand their support offer, and to represent the perspectives of people living with, or caring for someone, with a terminal illness, or who have been bereaved.
Attend local community events, to speak with the public about their views and promote Marie Curie services, for example Pride.
Distribute and restock posters, leaflets, and literature.
Act as the eyes and ears on the ground and feedback to MC
Support the local team during specific engagement initiatives e.g., completing questionnaires with members of the public and co-facilitating community forums.
Provide a good geographical spread across the relevant local area, spending time in your local community to truly understand the culture and support available.
Available to meet regularly with the Community Engagement Team both online and face to face.
What skills and experience are we looking for?
Passionate about improving care and support for terminally ill people and the people around them.
Commitment and reliability
Inclusive and respectful values with the ability to be active within a variety of communities and populations, including those with different beliefs and experiences to your own.
Able to work as part of the Marie Curie Team, at a local and national level.
Ability to be autonomous within your role, whilst being guided and supported by your Volunteer Manager
Willingness to learn and operate within Marie Curie processes and boundaries.
Patience, empathy, and emotional awareness
Excellent active listening skills and an ability to build a rapport with others.
What’s in it for you:
Opportunity to be involved with a national leader in end-of-life care.
Comprehensive training and induction
A supportive and empowering team environment
1:1 Wellbeing Support Sessions
Resilience Based Group Supervision
Access to other volunteering opportunities within Marie Curie
Continuous personal development
Buddying and shadow, sessions where required.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we need your help:
Understanding our local Cornish Communities and hearing from the residents who live here, especially those with lived experiences, is vitally important to ensure that Marie Curie creates, develops and improves services based on what people need and ensure more people have the best experience for in death, dying and bereavement.
We are looking for community engagement volunteers to work alongside our local team in Cornwall to:
Engage with and bring together people in communities (especially those who are poorly served by end of life care), to understand their experiences.
Support Marie Curie in co -designing and developing new and existing services to support people at the end of life or in their bereavement.
Feel confident in sharing their story and listening to others in an open and sensitive way.
Engage with local community groups/services to raise awareness of the range of Marie Curie support services (including our national services)
Help us to promote and support initiatives around awareness days including National Day of Reflection and other awareness weeks in your local area.
Identify and connect with local community groups to understand more about what they offer and how we can work together
What does the role involve?
Below is an idea of some of the activities that may be involved with this role:
Engage with local citizens to listen to and learn from their experiences of end-of-life care and bereavement support and share what you learn with the local Marie Curie team.
Engage with local organisations to understand their support offer, and to represent the perspectives of people living with, or caring for someone, with a terminal illness, or who have been bereaved.
Attend local community events, to speak with the public about their views and promote Marie Curie services, for example Pride.
Distribute and restock posters, leaflets, and literature.
Act as the eyes and ears on the ground and feedback to MC
Support the local team during specific engagement initiatives e.g., completing questionnaires with members of the public and co-facilitating community forums.
Provide a good geographical spread across the relevant local area, spending time in your local community to truly understand the culture and support available.
Available to meet regularly with the Community Engagement Team both online and face to face.
What skills and experience are we looking for?
Passionate about improving care and support for terminally ill people and the people around them.
Commitment and reliability
Inclusive and respectful values with the ability to be active within a variety of communities and populations, including those with different beliefs and experiences to your own.
Able to work as part of the Marie Curie Team, at a local and national level.
Ability to be autonomous within your role, whilst being guided and supported by your Volunteer Manager
Willingness to learn and operate within Marie Curie processes and boundaries.
Patience, empathy, and emotional awareness
Excellent active listening skills and an ability to build a rapport with others.
What’s in it for you:
Opportunity to be involved with a national leader in end-of-life care.
Comprehensive training and induction
A supportive and empowering team environment
1:1 Wellbeing Support Sessions
Resilience Based Group Supervision
Access to other volunteering opportunities within Marie Curie
Continuous personal development
Buddying and shadow, sessions where required.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
JOB DESCRIPTION
Why we need your help
The Marie Curie Dementia Befriending service is provided by trained volunteers who offer one-to-one companionship and support to people with a terminal illness that have dementia and their families. The service would not be able to reach those most in need if it was not for the commitment and hard work of the volunteers delivering the service.
Befriender volunteers provide companionship and emotional support, practical support, short breaks for carers and help with signposting for information and support.
What we need you to do
Your role will include, some of, but not restricted to the following tasks:
- Complete all initial mandatory Dementia Befriender volunteer training, as well as any refresher training whilst you are a Marie Curie volunteer
- Carry out weekly visits with the person(s) you’re supporting, as agreed with the Volunteer Co-ordinator. This could be in a variety of settings, for example in a family’s home, in a care home or out in the community.
- Provide one to one companionship and support. For example - Offering a listening ear and spending time engaging in everyday conversation, activities or hobbies with the person you are supporting. Accompanying them to an appointment, social groups or taking short trips out. Helping with small daily tasks eg making tea or accessing the internet. Allowing carers to have a short break. Signposting to relevant local support services or finding out information as requested.
(This list is only an outline as support will vary according to the needs of those using the service. Dementia Befriender volunteers do not provide nursing or personal care, or offer counselling or advice)
- Driving clients to pre-arranged health or social care (eg to chemotherapy appointments or day therapy at the hospice)
- Follow all mandatory procedures that form part of the Dementia Befriending service. Examples include submitting written report forms, identifying and briefing a lone worker Buddy, and following procedures for lone worker safety.
- Keep your manager informed of any changes to the situation, or any significant happenings in connection to the person you’re supporting and/or their family, either in person or by phone
- Be reliable and committed to regularly spending time with someone and offering support
- Attend group events and training sessions for Marie Curie Dementia Befriender volunteers
- Attend individual sessions with your Volunteer Co-ordinator as required
- Represent the Marie Curie Dementia Befriending service positively to those using the service
- Support with Advanced Care Planning for clients
What skills or experience do you need?
- Commitment and reliability - able to keep appointments and volunteer for approximately 3 hours a week
- Patience, empathy and emotional stability
- An understanding of the importance of confidentiality
- Willing to be flexible to the needs of the individual
- Ability to operate within the boundaries of the role
- A friendly and sensitive approach
- Excellent listening skills and an ability to build a rapport with others Respect for individuals, regardless of their race, gender, culture, religion, disability, sexual orientation and marital status
What we can offer you
- An excellent opportunity to build on your skills in a charity environment
- An induction, training, support and supervision in your role
- Agreed reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
What we ask of you
- To provide two references from non-family members and other relevant documents related to the role
- To keep to all the charity’s policies and guidelines
- To complete an induction and any training related to the role
Marie Curie is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of patients and their families and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Marie Curie will treat all volunteers fairly and with respect. We will not discriminate on the basis of disability, ethnicity, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, sex (i.e. gender), sexual orientation, religion or faith, or gender reassignment. We will not discriminate on the basis of age, unless the responsibilities of a role require us to do so in order to safeguard our volunteers and/or service users.
ABOUT US
Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and 6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left.
Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work. We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.
Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the Role
Role type: Voluntary role, travel expenses reimbursed
Role level: Team Lead
Location: Remote, open to applicants resident in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands or the Isle of Man
Responsible for: Events team
Accountable to: Head of Fundraising, Events & Comms
The purpose of your role is to lead, coordinate and support the Events team, a small team of volunteers which sits within the Fundraising, Events & Comms department. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the planning, delivery and evaluation of a varied programme of events. Currently, this includes: regular, virtual training opportunities/discussion groups; regional conferences (November); a residential national conference (June/July); three away days per year for Nightline Association volunteers; and the annual Nightline Awards.
The Events Team Lead will work closely with the Operations Officer and CEO to project manage all Nightline Association events, ensuring that necessary tasks are delegated and completed. They will also provide support and guidance to individuals and teams across the organisation who are seeking to deliver their own events.
You will also work with the Research and Impact department to develop our approach to evaluation, and the Services department to ensure that event planning is informed by the needs of Nightlines.
As a Team Lead, you will be supported by the Head of Fundraising, Events & Comms, who will act as your main point of contact and line manager. You will also have access to the support of our staff team, Trustees and other Heads of Department.
Activities and Responsibilities
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Oversee and monitor the delivery of all team projects and activities, ensuring these are meeting departmental and organisational strategy, aims and plans.
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Approve documentation and products produced by your department.
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Line manage volunteers in your team, including monthly one-to-one meetings.
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Support and supervise volunteers to ensure they carry out their duties effectively by providing clear communication, support, motivation, facilitation, supervision and leadership.
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Assist with the recruitment of new volunteers within your team.
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Appoint a temporary replacement for vacant volunteer roles in your team.
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Where necessary, apply the Association’s disciplinary procedures, seeking support if needed.
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Exhibit and promote effective team working.
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Directly contribute to projects as appropriate to support your team.
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Organise and run online team meetings on a regular basis to discuss operational activities, plans and ensure oversight of team activity.
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Attend a monthly one-to-one meeting with your Head of Department to update on progress, consider new projects, report risks, issues and budget requirements.
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Lead the planning, delivery and evaluation of the agreed programme of events, to allow us to support member Nightlines to share best practice and feel as though they belong to a community within the Association.
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Lead planning and project management for key projects including the regional and national conferences, delegating work across the Association as required.
Person Specification
Experience
Desirable
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Experience in events, project management or customer service
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Experience with Nightline or a similar organisation
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Experience of working with or leading a team
Competencies
Essential
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Highly developed organisational, planning, delegation and communication skills
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Lead, motivate, and work as part of a team
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Personable, supportive, and approachable
Desirable
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Prioritisation across workstreams or tasks
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Familiarity with Google Workspace
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Confident facilitating conversations and/or speaking to groups
Knowledge
Essential
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Understanding of and commitment to the Association’s values and to supporting and developing the Nightline community
Desirable
-
Knowledge of inclusive event design
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About We Are Family
We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years.
You can find out more about us here.
The Role
We are looking for new trustees to strengthen and enhance our board. The key responsibilities of the role include, governance, overseeing policy and direction, financial oversight and assisting with the leadership and general promotion of We Are Family to support the organisation’s Vision, Mission, Values and needs.
This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses - such as travel / childcare - covered by We Are Family. Trustees can be based anywhere in the UK.
Commitment
Trustee capacity to devote the time needed for the following is essential:
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4 Board meetings per year
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2 Board away days per year (on a Saturday)
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Membership of at least one sub-committee (which also meet 4 times a year)
We estimate 8-10 hours for the charity per month. The duration of membership for a new Board member is for three years in the first instance, with the possibility of appointment for a further three year term.
Skills and Experience
All applicants should be able to demonstrate the following:
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Be able to show high levels of professionalism and an ability to work collaboratively with others, including Trustees, our core team and the wider Volunteer network at We Are Family
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Be well-organised, with good written and verbal communication skills.
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Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds. A thorough induction, and further trustee training as appropriate, can be provided.
We are particularly interested candidates with the following experience:
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Working as a professional with or in the adoption sector,
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Advocacy and/or research work;
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Finance/charity finance
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Leadership within a charity
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Education
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Legal.
Although many of our current trustees are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.
One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board.
To Apply
If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please get in touch!
Refer to our job ad for the Applications email address and email our team. If you would like an informal conversation about the opportunity, please let us know.
Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Vision Action is a unique organisation, that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses, and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal.
The role of the Board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its Constitution. The Board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The Board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.
1. Terms of service
For Vision Action the Trustees are Members who have been elected to serve on the Board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 Trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years. Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the Trustees are its legal directors. The Trustee role is voluntary but out of pocket expenses are paid.
Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action Board of Trustees annually at the Board meeting following the Annual General Meeting. The time commitment in being a trustee involves attendance at four Board meetings per year, one of which will be an all-day strategy session. Otherwise, Board meetings are usually half a day in the afternoon of a weekday with at least half the meetings online. Papers are circulated for reading in advance.
In addition to this, it is expected that trustees attend the AGM held on a weekend and occasional Members’ Forums or other Vision Action events, which are usually arranged on the same day as a Board meeting in the evening. There may be other ad hoc meetings or online events to discuss specific topics. Trustees will be expected to commit time to receive a proper induction.
2. Main tasks
Charity Trustees have and must accept ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each Trustee will be expected to join one of the three sub-committees (Fundraising and Investment; Programmes; Finance, Administration and Remuneration). The Committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings.
3. General Responsibilities
- Ensure that Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its Constitution and Byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
- Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
- Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
- Contribute actively to the Board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
- Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
- Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti- Bribery).
- Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
- Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
- Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
- Appoint and support the Chief Executive Officer and monitor his/her performance.
In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each Trustee should attend Board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.
4. Additional Specific Responsibilities
In addition to the above, we are looking for a Trustee who can be the Chair designate and assume the role of Chair in November 2024.
Vision Action is looking for a Trustee who will be able to support us in 3 key areas:
1) Provide advice and experience at the level of Chair so that they can provide leadership to the Board of Trustees as well as the CEO
2) Act as the Chair designate until they assume the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees in November 2024.
3) Provide insight, knowledge and connections to help us build our reputation and position as a worthy international charity in the eye health sector in the UK and Internationally so that Vision Action can grow its relationship with individuals, bodies and corporates in the sector.
Person Specification
Each Trustee must have:
- A commitment to the mission and value base of Vision Action.
- A commitment to the key policies of Vision Action – on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Whistle-blowing, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti-Bribery.
- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
- Integrity.
- Strategic vision.
- Good, independent judgement.
- An ability to think creatively.
- A willingness to speak his/her mind.
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship (training/information will be offered in this area).
- An ability to contribute effectively to the workings of the Vision Action Board and any sub-committees or working groups.
In addition to the above, this specific appointment is looking ideally for Trustees who have:
- Previous experience of leading and Chairing at the senior level in an organisation;
- Previous experience of governing and managing at the Board level;
- Previous Board level experience in the charity sector;
- Willingness to undertake obligatory tasks with the Charity Commission on behalf of the organisation;
- Willingness to stay updated on changes to governance issues and policies that might impact Vision Action;
- A willingness to engage in activities in the vision sector as it relates to the work of Vision Action, including fundraising.
We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as well as those who may have a connection to the vision sector either through personal or professional experience and those who might come from one of the countries that Vision Action is currently active in – Zambia, Ghana, Sierre Leone, and Ethiopia.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Join us in distributing essential food supplies and providing crucial housing support to those in need. As the Poverty Relief Programme Lead at Barawak, you will drive efforts to uplift and stabilise our community through dynamic voluntary engagement.
Welcome to Barawak
Barawak is the first UK-registered charitable organisation dedicated to uplifting and empowering the Afro-Hebrew community in the UK.We understand the unique challenges faced by our community, and we are here to provide support, resources, and opportunities to help overcome these hurdles.
Our vision is to see our community thrive, free from the burdens of poverty and inequality. We're here to bring this vision to life by providing essential support and resources that uplift and empower every individual and family.
Our Purpose
At Barawak, our mission is clear: to address and alleviate the immediate and long-term challenges faced by our community. We're dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to the essentials – from food and toiletries to vital services. But our goals go beyond just meeting basic needs. We are also here to open doors to new opportunities through education and skill-building, helping our community members to stand tall and secure a better future for themselves and their families.
Our Commitment
At Barawak, we’re driven by four key goals to uplift our Afro-Hebrew community:
1. Alleviating Poverty: We’re here to give more than just immediate help. Our support includes essential items and help with basic needs, aimed at long-term financial stability for our community.
2. Empowering Through Education: Education and skills are keys to opening doors. We offer practical workshops and mentoring in financial smarts, job skills, and more, to spark economic opportunities.
3. Fostering Harmony and Diversity: We celebrate our rich Afro-Hebrew culture and encourage understanding across communities. Our work strengthens community bonds and enriches cultural events.
4. Promoting Health with Sports: Good health is vital. We offer sports and wellness activities that boost both body and mind, helping everyone feel part of something bigger.
In all we do, helping out, sticking together, and staying strong guide us. By the grace of our God, we're not just making today better — we're shaping a brighter, more hopeful community and future for us all.
Our Team
Currently, our team consists of dedicated trustees and advisors who are laying the groundwork for a robust volunteer organisation. We are in the process of expanding our team to include passionate, committed individuals who share our vision and are eager to make a real difference in the community.
Joining Our Cause
As a volunteer at Barawak, you'll be part of a meaningful journey to support and enrich the lives of those in our community. We value every contribution, and we provide a supportive environment where your skills and dedication can truly flourish. Whether you're leading a service or a vertical, assisting with operations or reporting, your role at Barawak is crucial to our collective success and your help will go a long way to helping us reach our strategic goals.
Role Description
Introduction to the Poverty Relief Programme at Barawak:
Barawak’s Poverty Relief Programme is a cornerstone of our mission to support and uplift the Afro-Hebrew community in the UK. It directly aligns with our fundamental objective of alleviating poverty and hardship among our community members and our strategy for poverty relief, which is to provide essential aid and support, focusing on the immediate effects of poverty while promoting long-term financial stability. This service line is designed to provide immediate aid in the form of food distribution and discretionary housing support, addressing the urgent needs of those most vulnerable.This approach not only aligns with Barawak's mission to relieve hardship but also embodies our vision of a thriving community where each individual has the necessary resources to overcome socio-economic challenges.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Plan and execute the Poverty Relief Strategy and service line to alleviate poverty within the Afro-Hebrew community, focusing on providing both direct and indirect support to individuals in need.
• Annual food distribution: Oversee the annual distribution of food, ensuring efficient and effective delivery to those in need.
• Housing Support: Provide discretionary advice and signposting for housing support needs.
2. Measure performance: Keep accurate count of the number of individuals and families receiving food aidand/or assisted with housing support. Provide this data to the Governance Team and Trustees on request.
3. Collaboration with Verticals Teams:
• Partnership Development & Collaboration Team: Coordinate with this team to identify and establishalliances and partnerships with local, regional and global organisations, businesses, councils, and thegovernment to acquire food resources for distribution – or acquire discretionary housing advice and signposting.
• Fundraising & Financial Management Team: Collaborate with this team to conduct fundraising activities and financial planning for the poverty relief service line. Identify diverse revenue streams, such asgrants, donations, corporate sponsorships, fundraising events for the poverty relief service.
• Volunteer Engagement Team: Work with this team to recruit, train and manage volunteers to support the Poverty Relief service delivery.
• Marketing Outreach & Advocacy: work with this team to to enhance visibility of the poverty relief service across social media, press, and community events.
4. Governance Team Interaction: Provide regular updates and reports to the Governance, Secretariat & Performance Reporting team. Ensure programmealignment with Barawak policies, procedures, strategyand objectives. Collaborate on monitoring and evaluation efforts to assess Poverty Relief service impact and effectiveness.
Person Specification:
• Skills: Strong organisational and leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and adept at working in a collaborative environment. Eagar to learn new skills.
• Attributes: Deep understanding of the challenges faced by the Afro-Hebrew community in the UK. Commitment to Barawak's values of helping out, sticking together, and staying strong. Ability to work flexibly and respond to evolving community needs.
• Commitment: Passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families dealing with poverty. Innovative thinker with a focus on creating sustainable, long-term solutions.
Important: This advert is for a voluntary role, which is unpaid and not subject to reimbursement of expenses. Any agreement with the successful candidate is not intended to be a legally binding contract between us and may be cancelled at any time at the discretion of either party. By applying for the role, candidates agree that neither of us intend any employment relationship to be created either now or at any time in the future.
To apply, email your CV by 1 May 2024, clearly stating in the Subject Line the role you are applying for.
To relieve the poverty of persons and families of African and Caribbean decent.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
JOB DESCRIPTION
Marie Curie Helper is a professional service provided by trained volunteers who offer one-to-one companionship and support to people with a terminal illness and their families. The service would not be able to reach those most in need if it was not for the commitment and hard work of the volunteers delivering the service.
Helper volunteers provide companionship and emotional support, practical support, short breaks for carers and help with signposting for information and support.
Your role will include some of, but is not restricted to, the following tasks:
- Carry out weekly visits with the person(s) you’re supporting, as agreed with the Volunteer Co-ordinator. This could be in a variety of settings, eg family home, a care home or in the community.
- Provide one-to-one companionship and support.
For example: offering a listening ear and spending time engaging in every-day conversation, activities or hobbies with the person you are supporting. Driving clients to pre-arranged health or social care (e.g. to medical appointments) or taking short trips out. Helping with small, daily tasks, e.g. making tea or accessing the internet. Allowing carers to have a short break. You may be supporting your client’s family or carers before or during bereavement. This may involve offering emotional support, signposting to relevant local support services or finding out information as requested
(This is only an outline as support will vary according to individual needs. Helper volunteers do not provide nursing or personal care, or offer counselling or advice)
- Keep your manager informed of any changes to the situation, or any significant happenings in connection to the person you’re supporting and/or their family, either in person or by phone
- Submit regular visit reports to your manager and update relevant computer systems as required
- Be reliable and committed to regularly spending time with someone and offering support
- Attend individual sessions with your Volunteer Co-ordinator, training and group events as required
- Represent the Marie Curie Helper service positively to those using the service
Pam mae angen eich help arnom
Gwasanaeth proffesiynol yw Cynorthwywyr Marie Curie a ddarperir gan wirfoddolwyr hyfforddedig sy’n cynnig cwmnïaeth a chymorth un-i-un i bobl sydd â salwch terfynol a’u teuluoedd. Ni fyddai’r gwasanaeth yn medru cyrraedd y rhai sydd ei angen fwyaf heb ymroddiad a gwaith caled y gwirfoddolwyr sy’n darparu’r gwasanaeth.
Mae Cynorthwywyr Gwirfoddol yn darparu cwmnïaeth a chymorth emosiynol, cymorth ymarferol, seibiannau byr i ofalwyr a help gyda chyfeirio at wybodaeth a chymorth.
Beth rydym angen i chi ei wneud
Bydd eich rôl yn cynnwys, ond heb fod yn gyfyngedig i, rhai o’r tasgau canlynol:
- Cynnal ymweliadau wythnosol gyda’r person/pobl rydych chi’n eu cefnogi, fel y cytunwyd gyda’r Cydlynydd Gwirfoddolwyr. Gallai hyn fod mewn amrywiaeth o leoliadau, e.e. cartref teuluol, cartref gofal, neu yn y gymuned.
- Darparu cwmnïaeth a chymorth un-i-un. Er enghraifft:
- Cynnig clust i wrando a threulio amser yn sgwrsio neu wneud gweithgareddau neu hobïau bob dydd gyda'r person yr ydych yn ei gefnogi.
- Gyrru cleientiaid i ofal iechyd neu gymdeithasol a drefnwyd ymlaen llaw (e.e. i apwyntiadau meddygol) neu fynd ar deithiau byr.
- Helpu gyda thasgau bach bob dydd, e.e. gwneud te neu gyrchu’r
- rhyngrwyd.
- Caniatáu i ofalwyr gael seibiant byr.
- Efallai y byddwch yn cefnogi teulu’ch cleient cyn neu yn ystod profedigaeth. Gallai hyn gynnwys cynnig cymorth emosiynol, cyfeirio at wasanaethau cymorth lleol neu ddod o hyd i wybodaeth yn ôl yr angen
(Amlinelliad yn unig yw hwn gan fydd cymorth yn amrywio yn ôl anghenion unigol. Nid yw cynorthwywyr gwirfoddol yn darparu gofal nyrsio neu bersonol, nac yn cynnig cwnsela na chyngor)
- Rhoi gwybod i’ch rheolwr am unrhyw newidiadau i’r sefyllfa, neu unrhyw ddigwyddiadau arwyddocaol mewn cysylltiad â’r person rydych chi’n ei gefnogi a/neu ei deulu, naill ai wyneb yn wyneb neu dros y ffôn
- Cyflwyno adroddiadau ymweliad i’ch rheolwr yn rheolaidd a diweddaru systemau cyfrifiadur perthnasol yn ôl yr angen
- Bod yn ddibynadwy ac yn ymroddgar i dreulio amser â rhywun a chynnig cymorth yn rheolaidd
- Mynychu sesiynau unigol gyda’ch Cydlynydd Gwirfoddoli, hyfforddiant a sesiynau grŵp yn ôl yr angen
- Cynrychioli’r Gwasanaeth Cynorthwywyr Marie Curie yn bositif i’r rhai sy’n defnyddio’r gwasanaeth
Pa sgiliau neu brofiad sydd eu hangen arnoch?
- Ymroddiad a dibynadwyedd – y gallu i gadw apwyntiadau a gwirfoddoli am tua 3 awr yr wythnos
- Amynedd, empathi a sefydlogrwydd emosiynol
- Dealltwriaeth o bwysigrwydd cyfrinachedd
- Parch tuag at breifatrwydd, urddas ac annibyniaeth unigolyn
- Parodrwydd i fod yn hyblyg i anghenion yr unigolyn
- Y gallu i weithredu o fewn ffiniau’r rôl
- Ymagwedd gyfeillgar a sensitif gyda sgiliau cryf o ran meithrin perthynas ac empathi
- Sgiliau gwrando rhagorol a’r gallu i feithrin perthynas ag eraill
- Parch tuag at unigolion, ni waeth beth fo’u hanabledd, ethnigrwydd, statws priodasol, beichiogrwydd neu famolaeth, rhywedd, cyfeiriadedd rhywiol, crefydd neu ffydd, neu ailbennu rhywedd
ABOUT US
Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and 6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left.
Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work. We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.
Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Could you be one of our next Trustees? Could you be the next Vice Chair of our Board?
PACT, with a rich history dating back to 1911, is a leading adoption charity and trauma recovery provider across southern and central England. By joining us, you'll play a crucial part in placing children in secure and loving families, empowering women to take control of their lives and aiding the recovery of those affected by domestic abuse.
We’re looking for individuals to join our Board of Trustees who share our passion for making a real difference to the lives of hundreds of children, women and families. We’re particularly keen to hear from people with skills and experience in marketing, digital development, lived experience of our services, including from adopters, children’s or adult social care and commercial business.
We know the value of having board members who champion inclusive values and bring a wide variety of perspectives to our organisation and welcome applications for people of all ages, backgrounds, cultures and levels of experience.
If you’re interested in joining as a Trustee and have no prior board experience this isn’t a problem. For the Vice Chair role some prior Trustee experience or transferable skills would be ideal.
We provide comprehensive training and support and offer flexibility and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Plus, you'll gain immense satisfaction from knowing your efforts directly impact vulnerable individuals and families.
If you’re excited by our work, have time to give and want to be part of something truly meaningful and live changing, this fantastic opportunity could be for you.
Learn more about our amazing work please visit our website.
For an informal discussion with our CEO, please visit our website for contact details. If you are interested in the Vice-Chair opportunity we can arrange for an informal discussion with our current Vice-Chair.
Interested? For more information and details of how to apply, please take a look at the volunteer page of our website where you will also find our Trustee recruitment pack.
The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 31 May 2024
Interviews will be held on Wednesday 12 June 2024.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
JOB DESCRIPTION
Why we need your help
Marie Curie set up the Research Voices Group in 2013 to make sure we’re engaging meaningfully with people in our research activities who have personal experiences of living with terminal illness or who have cared for someone with a terminal. Our aim is to enable members of this group to contribute at all stages of our research and policy work and in a variety of research projects that we fund.
All you need to join is personal experience of living with terminal illness, caring for someone with a terminal illness or of bereavement. You’ll also be interested in supporting research in these areas. We would welcome volunteers from diverse backgrounds and who have lived experience in the past few years.As part of the group, volunteers will help the Research and Policy teams to better understand the views of people living with a terminal illness, supporting people who have a terminal illness or of bereavement and help inform Marie Curie’s decisions on research funding,dissemination and campaigning activities.
This is a great opportunity to play an important role in helping to improve the future provision and quality of end-of-life care. It is also a chance to learn about the research and policy work in the sector.
What we would like your help with
Your role will include some of, but is not restricted to, the following tasks. You will be able to choose what you get involved with and how.
- providing your opinion on research proposals that we’re planning to fund
- helping to identify key questions for palliative and end of life care research
- advising on research projects, for example as a member of a research steering committee
- talking about research at external events and conferences
- helping our team to plan and facilitate key events and workshops
- sharing your experience at policy-making forums, speaking at conferences or attending Government events
- reviewing posters submitted for the Annual Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Conference
- reviewing grant reports and offering feedback on findings and achievements to grant holders
- being a member of a committee such as the Marie Curie Research Funding Committee
What skills or experience will be useful
- An interest in improving end-of-life care and in research and its evaluation
- Desire to understand and engage with national and local decision makers to drive change
- Good communication and organisational skills
- Ability to read and comment on research summaries
- Confidence in taking part in discussions in a committee situation
- Respect for different opinions
- A willingness to take an active part in meetings
- To use your skills and experience gained through your professional or home life to support the work of the group
- Access to phone or internet would be particularly useful
What we can offer you
- The opportunity to help us improve palliative and end of life care both within and beyond Marie Curie’s services
- Opportunities to enhance your skills and gain useful experience
- Induction, training, support and supervision in your role
- Reward and recognition for your time including out-of-pocket expenses
- Support from the Marie Curie research and policy teams and fellow members of the group
- The opportunity to share your experiences to improve care and support for others
What we ask of you
- To provide two references from non-family members and other relevant documents related to the role
- To keep to all the charity’s policies and guidelines
- To complete an induction and any training relevant to the role
- The group meets bi-monthly, mostly on-line and occasionally in person. Any other time you choose to give is up to you.(home-based), with occasional visits to MC Head Office, Vauxhall, London
Diversity and inclusion
Marie Curie is committed to being a diverse and inclusive charity. We aim to demonstrate support for all of our staff and volunteers, valuing each individual’s contribution regardless of age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, civil partnership status, disability, nationality, race, religion or belief. We are committed to providing equal opportunities to our staff and volunteers and to taking steps to ensure our staff and volunteers are protected from discrimination.
ABOUT US
Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and 6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left.
Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work. We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.
Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.
We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.
We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.
New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join Irise’s Board of Trustees as our Finance Lead, part of a vibrant global community building a world where a female body is not a disadvantage.
“I learn so much from being a trustee of Irise. I learn about different kinds of leadership, we strive to practice our values, we are collaborative, and we support each other. Being part of such a great team and network of volunteers and advocates is a real bonus.”
Irise International is an award-winning global leader in period equality programming and advocacy, building a world where a female body is not a disadvantage through bringing together young people with firsthand experience of menstrual challenges to create change in their own communities and wider society. We work in the UK and East Africa, in partnership with our sister organisation Irise Institute East Africa and advocate together globally for the changes our community want to see. We’re powered by our community, driven by evidence and committee to feminist leadership. Read more about our shared purpose and values in our Global Strategic Framework.
We were founded in 2014 in response to girls’ voices calling for their menstrual needs to be acknowledged and met. Almost a decade later, our small and agile team has directly supported over 100,000 young people to overcome period inequality, enabled 287 organisations to address period inequality in their work and boasts a community of over 174 groups and community organisations across the contexts where work. We’ve won a global award, sat on a UK government taskforce and been named one of the most effective organisations tackling this issue.
Our current UK Board has 7 committed trustees who are committed to working in a way which is inclusive, welcoming, collaborative, transparent, and reflective. We were shortlisted for a UK Charity Governance Award in 2020 for our approach to Diversity and Inclusion and we are on a continual journey to create spaces where diverse people can find community and a sense of belonging- we invite everyone who joins our community to help us do this better.
Who are we looking for? We are looking for a dedicated and passionate Trustee - Finance Lead, with specific skills and expertise in small charity financial management, who can guide the Irise community through the next phase of our journey. With cuts to funding for girls’ education in the Global South and rising levels of period poverty in the UK, Irise is needed more than ever before and we want to deliver ambitious plans for transformative change, led by the people and communities who need it most.
What difference will you make? As a member of the Board, you will be willing and able to:
- Ask powerful questions
- Respectfully challenge yourself and others
- Collaborate with other Board members, Irise staff, volunteers, and external contacts
- Scrutinize Board documents and papers
- Participate in discussions and share accurate information
- Provide advice and guidance (based on individual specific expertise and experience) on strategy, projects and initiatives.
As Finance Lead, alongside the Treasurer, you will maintain an overview of the Charity's financial position and of the conduct of its financial affairs such that they can and do give well grounded advice to the Board of Trustees and CEO.
Key Responsibilities
- Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees.
- Support the development of the annual budget and future trajectories in line with the aspirations of the Irise’s strategic plan and fundraising strategy.
- Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance.
- Oversee the development and observation of financial policies.
- Keep the Board of Trustees regularly informed of key financial events, trends, concerns and assessment of fiscal health in addition to completing financial reporting in a timely fashion, making these reports available to the Board within reason.
- Have oversight of all financial transactions including monitoring developed systems for keeping cash flow manageable and efficient.
- Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action.
- Arrange the compilation and agreement of Irise’s annual report, including the annual review of accounts by the independent examiner.
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will have sound financial knowledge and the time needed to comprehensively fulfil the role:
- Competent and experienced in handling finances, ideally within small charities (formal accountancy qualification preferred).
- Good understanding of the charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP)
- An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee
In addition, all trustees are required to fulfill the following duties as outlined by the Charity Commission.
Before you apply, please consider:
Time Commitment: The Board meet at least every 3 months. All of our core Board meetings are held virtually on weekday evenings lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Board papers are circulated 1-week prior to each meeting to enable plenty of time to read through and ask questions prior to the meeting. In between Board meetings you may be invited to provide additional ad-hoc input such as providing insights via email or taking responsibility for researching and writing Board papers on particular issues. We also have 1-2 in-person meetings per year; where possible, we strive for hybrid access to enable inclusion of those people unable to attend in-person events. Trustees are also encouraged to participate in online and in-person events with our wider networks and supporters from the UK and East Africa, and to support our youth leadership initiatives, for example we ask one of our trustees to provide mentorship to our Empower Period Committee. In total, you can expect to spend an average of 1-2 hours per week on activities and meetings related to the role. The role is meant to be compatible with a full time job and caring responsibilities, and we always aim for trustee input to be as flexible and time efficient as possible. We are always open to new ideas to make our Board as accessible as possible.
Term: Trustees serve a mutually agreed term, usually of at least 3 years, as agreed by the trustee and the board depending on the needs and desires of the organisation and the individual trustee. As a Board we engage in a continuous cycle of reflection, and each year our Chair meets with each board member, one to one, to review and reflect.
Expenses: Trustees shall be reimbursed whenever possible for all reasonable traveling, subsistence and other expenses incurred in connection with their attendance at meetings or in carrying out any other duties or responsibilities of the role, but otherwise shall not be paid a remuneration.
How to apply
Please share a bit about who you are, your previous experiences and a short explanation of why you would like to become a trustee of Irise International with our Chair, Linda Baines. You can share a CV, your Linked In profile, a personal website or any other relevant materials that tell us a bit more about who you are and what experiences you’ve had. Please don’t feel that you have to prepare something specially for us.
You’re also welcome to share your explanation of why you’re interested in joining the board in a format that works for you e.g. a short cover letter or a video recorded on your phone. If you have questions about the role, need any help or support to apply or would like to discuss the opportunity in more detail please get in touch to arrange a time for a phone/video call. We’ll arrange a conversation with some of our existing board members to explore with you whether we’ll be a good match. The deadline for applications is 10th July 2024.
fWe’ll also reach out to people as they get in touch with us to explore compatibility. Don’t worry if you miss the deadline - we do also consider expressions of interest in joining our board on an ongoing basis.