Access to health volunteer volunteer roles

Become a Fundraising Volunteer!

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. 

Cats are at the centre of everything we do, and our objectives are homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about this role... 

Please note - Due to the nature of fundraising roles, our volunteers must be over the age of 18. 

As a charity we can help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations from our supporters. Raising funds is a key role in our charity, helping to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need.

As a fundraising volunteer, we will support you every step of the way to ensure your time at Cats Protection is a positive and rewarding one. Whatever time you can give really does make a big difference We have lots of exciting activities to choose from for example attending a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, handling administrative tasks, or contributing to the development of new fundraising ideas. Whatever your skill set, this role could be perfect for you! 

What can I expect to be doing? 

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following: 

• Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with our fundraising events, attending supermarket collections or local markets. 

• Distributing collection tins – popping collection tins into local shops and pubs and collecting them when they’re full. 

• Bringing new ideas! - We always love to come up with new ideas to raise funds for cats and we’d love to help bring yours to life. 

• Engaging with your local branches and Fundraising Hub and feeling like an integral part of the team! 

What are the benefits to you and the cats? 

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser.  You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.
Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them. 

We're looking for someone with: 

• Sympathy to cats and our values 

• Happy to be part of a team of dedicated volunteers and employees. 

• Flexible and adaptable to different events/activities 

• Open to new ideas and ways of fundraising 

How much time is expected of me? 

Our Fundraising Volunteer roles are very flexible, often certain times of the year are busier than others. You can choose your level of involvement to suit your schedule!

Support, guidance and keeping you safe 

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us. 

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Thank you for your support and sharing in this commitment and for everything you will do during your time with Cats Protection! 

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just some spare time occasionally, and an ability to get on with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Helper?

SSAFA Helpers provide support to local SSAFA branches, so that the service to veterans and their families can run smoothly. Perhaps you could help out at an event, take care of some office admin, or give a talk about SSAFA?

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We have peak times throughout the year when we need extra volunteers. Whether you enjoy organising behind the scenes or being out meeting the public, we need people who can offer some time on a flexible basis.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role will suit you if you are looking to volunteer on a flexible basis as and when you are available, and we need extra help. You may be based in an office, at home, or out and about at events.

What would you be doing?

• Helping at public events by staffing stalls, stewarding etc
• Helping to distribute Christmas hampers to clients.
• Giving talks about SSAFA to schools and local groups
• Helping with office tasks like stuffing envelopes, ordering marketing materials

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to represent SSAFA and its values to potential clients, their families, other agencies, potential volunteers and potential funders.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to safeguarding, giving advice etc.
• Reliable attitude, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to transport if needed for your role.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just some spare time occasionally, and an ability to get on with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Helper?

SSAFA Helpers provide support to local SSAFA branches, so that the service to veterans and their families can run smoothly. Perhaps you could help out at an event, take care of some office admin, or give a talk about SSAFA?

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We have peak times throughout the year when we need extra volunteers. Whether you enjoy organising behind the scenes or being out meeting the public, we need people who can offer some time on a flexible basis.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role will suit you if you are looking to volunteer on a flexible basis as and when you are available, and we need extra help. You may be based in an office, at home, or out and about at events.

What would you be doing?

• Helping at public events by staffing stalls, stewarding etc
• Helping to distribute Christmas hampers to clients.
• Giving talks about SSAFA to schools and local groups
• Helping with office tasks like stuffing envelopes, ordering marketing materials

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to represent SSAFA and its values to potential clients, their families, other agencies, potential volunteers and potential funders.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to safeguarding, giving advice etc.
• Reliable attitude, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to transport if needed for your role.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Our House Experience Volunteers add the sparkle to any visit – giving everyone a warm welcome, bringing stories from Ickworth to life and helping people get the best out of their day. 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Warm and friendly.
• Someone with a curious and inquisitive nature, with an ability to engage our visitors, ask questions and facilitate conversations.
• Able to listen thoughtfully and actively.
• Someone with exceptional customer service standards- a desire to put visitors before everything else.
• A good storyteller, with a talent for reading body language and thinking on your feet
• Sensitive to visitor and volunteer needs – working as an effective team member.
• Willing to develop your knowledge of Ickworth, its history and vast collections.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Responding to the diverse needs of visitors, including people with additional access needs.
• Sharing inspirational stories, curious facts and practical information or simply the space for visitors to wander at their own pace.
• Helping visitors to discover more, answering questions and making suggestions so they can enjoy their day, their way.
• Being an ambassador for the whole property and the National Trust. Helping visitors understand the full scope of the offer at Ickworth beyond the house.
• Learning more about Ickworth, so you can share your knowledge and stories of the family and their collections with visitors.
• Responding to the changing needs of Ickworth – supporting ongoing interpretation strategies in the House.
• Supporting with health and safety and evacuation procedures if required.
• Being part of a team that may need to adapt and change in response to local needs, National Trust priorities or changes to government guidelines 

 By getting involved you could· 

• Become part of a friendly and dedicated team.
  Spend time with us at Ickworth, learn about its history, stories and enjoy its beauty.
• Meet people from all walks of life
• Find an opportunity to use your existing skills and develop new ones.
  Improve your communication skills.
  Get a warm glow by knowing you have made a difference to someone’s day out with us.

 You’d also be joining Europe’s largest conservation charity and the wider National Trust team proudly looking after 780 miles of coastline, over 250,000 hectares of land, over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves (including lighthouses, villages, pubs and a gold mine!). We are a unique charity welcoming millions of people each year and with a vision to open up places for the benefit of everyone, for ever.

All National Trust volunteers will be asked to

• Respect and uphold the National Trust values whilst volunteering with us.
• Complete training required of all NT volunteers and any role specific training
• Adhere to relevant policies and processes including safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity. 

 We want all our volunteers to feel welcome and to have an equally positive experience when volunteering with us. So, volunteers will:

• Be provided with the necessary induction, training, equipment and reasonable adjustments to do this role well and safely
• Be offered expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering.
• Have remote access to support, news and rotas via our volunteer website 

Skills acquired: Adaptability, Communication Skills, Community Development, Customer Service, Event Support, Exhibition Arts, Fundraising, Interpersonal Skills, Public Relations, Public Speaking, Teamwork, Visual Arts

Fundraising Events Organiser Volunteer

Would you like to be part of a dedicated and friendly team of volunteers and make a real difference to the lives of cats and kittens in our care?  Do you enjoy planning and organising for events?  Maybe you have a particular skill that you would like to put to use?
 
Then this could be the role for you! 
 
Our Fundraising Events Team are at the heart of what we do, raising essential funds for the cats. 

Our Fundraising Events Organisers share ideas, tasks and inspiration, planning and delivering local events, with the support of the Fundraising events helpers, such as Open Days (usually 2 per year) at the centre and our annual Christmas Bazaar. 

Time Expectation:  This role can be varied and time commitment can be flexible. 

Without volunteers, Cats Protection Berkshire Cat Centre simply wouldn't exist. Our amazing, friendly volunteers are a diverse group with a shared love of cats who fit volunteering around their home lives and personal commitments.

We're often looking to welcome new volunteers to join our brilliant team. As well as meeting great people and making an incredible difference to the cats of Berkshire.

Please note:  Although we do welcome everyone, unfortunately our centre is not set up to accommodate young volunteers under the age of 18, including those on the Duke of Edinburgh programme.

Full training and support will be given for all roles.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Could you look after the finances for the local SSAFA service in your area? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T and finance skills. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Branch Treasurer?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into small local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a treasurer overseeing the divisions that, in turn each have a treasurer of their own. This is a key role involving financial planning and financial administration.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles and fundraisers.

One of the key ways we help people is by tapping into various sources of funding on their behalf. Monitoring and reconciling this flow of funding into and out of SSAFA accounts is important to ensure clients receive timely support and we are able to account for all charitable funds in our care.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. This flexible role involves using our on-line financial management system and on-line bank accounts and so can be done when and where suits you best. You will need to attend a number of branch committee meetings each year.

What would you be doing?

• Maintaining and reconciling local bank accounts and recording transactions
• Supporting divisions to manage their local finances.
• Making and recording all authorised payments
• Preparing year end accounts and financial statements including arranging an independent review
• Working with the branch secretary, advise on a local fundraising programme to cover branch running costs.
• Identify and manage the return of any surplus monies from grants as appropriate.
• Providing reports to the branch committee and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Maintaining accurate records using our on-line finance management system
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a responsible role in a well-respected charity
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – treasurers webinar (with some pre-course learning), and financial management system training.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Support from the branch Chair and the Finance team based as our central office.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses
• Support from the Volunteer Support Manager and the Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with some experience of financial administration
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Willingness to use our on-line banking and on-line finance management system (this is covered in training)
• Reliable attitude: contact volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to gravel to meetings etc.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces?  You don’t need a military background, just the ability to listen, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English.  If so, this could be the role for you.

Our Branch provides lifelong support to anyone who has ever served, in the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and their dependants. We also give support to those who has been in the Merchant Navy, Seafarers, Fishermen and their dependants, and British Airways staff past and present. Our main role is seeking welfare benevolent grants on behalf of clients who reside in the 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland. They can arrange anything from household goods, funeral costs, mobility aids or other general needs. Legal fees are not considered. We would advise clients to seek state and local benefits by signposting them to the relevant agencies.

What is a caseworker?

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of help they need, this might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit.  Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

Why do we need you?

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan.  Our trained volunteers listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help people navigate life in and beyond military service.  We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us achieve this.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting. Our volunteers are based at home with a yearly AGM invite.

What does this role involve?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time

• Meeting clients and completing a form to assess their circumstances

• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice

• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability

• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients

• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser

• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the

Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background and their dependents

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others

• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community

• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support will you receive?

• On-line or face to face instructor led training and e-learning modules, to prepare you for your voluntary role.

• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.

• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact. •

• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team.

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What skills or experience do you need?

• Good listening and communication skills including written and spoken English

• Respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues

• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills.  Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role  

• Ability to make enquires on behalf of clients by phone, email, letter or by filling in forms

• If required, willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the caseworker training course)

• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to friendship or giving advice

• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability 

• Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments with clients

• Friendly and approachable with some experience of coordinating people and admin

•       Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies. 

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18  

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required?  Yes, Garda Vetting, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer.

Jumble Sales Organiser Volunteer

Would you like to raise funds, have fun and join a super team of volunteers who together make our Jumble Sales in Thatcham a great success?  As Jumble Sales Organiser you would be helping to make everything run smoothly for the team.

Time Expectations:  1 Saturday every other month (plus preparations)

This could be a shared role and tasks may include:

· Booking the hall for future Jumbles

· Contacting the Jumble team before events to check availability

· Set up stalls, running a stall and packing away at the end

· Collecting any items/resources needed from the centre the day before

Without volunteers, Cats Protection Berkshire Cat Centre simply wouldn't exist. Our amazing, friendly volunteers are a diverse group with a shared love of cats who fit volunteering around their home lives and personal commitments.

We're often looking to welcome new volunteers to join our brilliant team. As well as meeting great people and making an incredible difference to the cats of Berkshire.

Please note:  Although we do welcome everyone, unfortunately our centre is not set up to accommodate young volunteers under the age of 18, including those on the Duke of Edinburgh programme.

Full training and support will be given for all roles.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Could you look after the finances for the local SSAFA service in your area? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T and finance skills. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Branch Treasurer?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into small local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a treasurer overseeing the divisions that, in turn each have a treasurer of their own. This is a key role involving financial planning and financial administration.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles and fundraisers.

One of the key ways we help people is by tapping into various sources of funding on their behalf. Monitoring and reconciling this flow of funding into and out of SSAFA accounts is important to ensure clients receive timely support and we are able to account for all charitable funds in our care.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. This flexible role involves using our on-line financial management system and on-line bank accounts and so can be done when and where suits you best. You will need to attend a number of branch committee meetings each year.

What would you be doing?

• Maintaining and reconciling local bank accounts and recording transactions
• Supporting divisions to manage their local finances.
• Making and recording all authorised payments
• Preparing year end accounts and financial statements including arranging an independent review
• Working with the branch secretary, advise on a local fundraising programme to cover branch running costs.
• Identify and manage the return of any surplus monies from grants as appropriate.
• Providing reports to the branch committee and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Maintaining accurate records using our on-line finance management system
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a responsible role in a well-respected charity
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – treasurers webinar (with some pre-course learning), and financial management system training.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Support from the branch Chair and the Finance team based as our central office.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses
• Support from the Volunteer Support Manager and the Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with some experience of financial administration
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Willingness to use our on-line banking and on-line finance management system (this is covered in training)
• Reliable attitude: contact volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to gravel to meetings etc.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

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

Could you look after the finances for the local SSAFA service in your area? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T and finance skills. If so, this could be the role for you!

What is a Divisional Treasurer?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into small local areas that we call divisions. Each one has a treasurer to look after the accounts and funds in that division. This is a key role involving financial administration.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

One of the key ways we help clients is by tapping into various sources of funding on their behalf. Monitoring and reconciling this flow of funding in and out of SSAFA accounts is important to ensure clients receive the support when needed and we can account for all charitable funds in our care.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. This flexible role involves using our on-line financial management system and on-line bank accounts and so can be done when and where suits you best.

What would you be doing?

• Maintaining and reconciling local bank accounts and recording transactions
• Ensuring funds are available to caseworkers, to provide immediate grants where appropriate.
• Making and recording all authorised payments
• Preparing year end accounts
• Working with the divisional secretary, advise on a local fundraising plan to cover divisional running costs.
• Identifying and returning any surplus monies from grants as appropriate
• Providing reports to the local SSAFA branch and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Maintaining accurate records on our on-line finance management system
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Experience of holding a responsible role in a well-respected charity
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – treasurers webinar (including some pre-work) and financial management system training.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Support from the divisional secretary and the branch treasurer.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses
• Support from the Finance Team and Volunteer Experience Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with some experience of financial administration
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues,
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address,
• Willingness to use our on-line banking and on-line finance management system (this is covered in training)
• Reliable attitude: contact volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings etc.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Are you green-fingered and have time to help nurture wildflowers for the community?

The Wetland Wildflower Project aims to grow and distribute meadow plants of local provenance to enhance the wildflower diversity of local community projects, as well as the grounds and reserve areas at WWT Slimbridge.  We will grow these plants in a recently refurbished polytunnel at Slimbridge.

Floodplain meadows are not only beautiful, but these rare, species-rich plant communities are part of the heritage of the Severn Vale.  Floodplain meadows can store more carbon than woodlands, are incredibly biodiverse and can help mitigate flooding. Unfortunately, today just over 1000ha remain in England and Wales.

To help our efforts to restore floodplain meadows and other wet grasslands in the Severn Vale, we are looking for volunteers to assist with growing wildflower plug plants in our polytunnel.

This is a great role for those who will enjoy this hands-on work behind the scenes, whilst playing a role in saving wetlands for wildlife and people.  

Tasks will include:

• Receiving simple training on the methods and essential health & safety
• Caring for plug plants e.g. weeding, hand watering, potting on plants for sale in shop and watering and replacing these, as required
• Seed collecting  and looking for pests and diseases
• Preparing plants for orders
• Ensuring optimal growing conditions in the polytunnel e.g. raising /lowering sides of tunnel, adapting automatic watering regime
• Some general maintenance, as needed, including moving trays and keeping work areas clean and safe
• Updating records, e.g. of any problems/loss of plants/transfer of plants
• Planting out plugs, as and when required 
• Supporting attendance at plant sales and fairs, as agreed

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

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces?  You don’t need a military background, just the ability to listen, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English.  If so, this could be the role for you.

Our Branch provides lifelong support to anyone who has ever served, in the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and their dependants. We also give support to those who has been in the Merchant Navy, Seafarers, Fishermen and their dependants, and British Airways staff past and present. Our main role is seeking welfare benevolent grants on behalf of clients who reside in the 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland. They can arrange anything from household goods, funeral costs, mobility aids or other general needs. Legal fees are not considered. We would advise clients to seek state and local benefits by signposting them to the relevant agencies.

What is a caseworker?

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of help they need, this might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit.  Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

Why do we need you?

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan.  Our trained volunteers listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help people navigate life in and beyond military service.  We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us achieve this.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting. Our volunteers are based at home with a yearly AGM invite.

What does this role involve?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time

• Meeting clients and completing a form to assess their circumstances

• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice

• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability

• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients

• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser

• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the

Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background and their dependents

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others

• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community

• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support will you receive?

• On-line or face to face instructor led training and e-learning modules, to prepare you for your voluntary role.

• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.

• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact. •

• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team.

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What skills or experience do you need?

• Good listening and communication skills including written and spoken English

• Respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues

• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills.  Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role  

• Ability to make enquires on behalf of clients by phone, email, letter or by filling in forms

• If required, willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the caseworker training course)

• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to friendship or giving advice

• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability 

• Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments with clients

• Friendly and approachable with some experience of coordinating people and admin

•       Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies. 

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18  

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required?  Yes, Garda Vetting, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer.

Job Title: Volunteer Finance Lead
Reporting to: Operational Director
Hours: 10 to 15 hours per month (we can be flexible and work with your schedule)

Willowbrook Farm Charity

Willowbrook Farm Charity exists to create nurturing educational and cultural spaces in the Oxfordshire countryside that are welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to communities who have been historically underrepresented in rural environments — including people from racialised backgrounds, neurodivergent individuals, and young people with diverse learning needs.

In partnership with Willowbrook Farm (www  willowbrookfarm  co  uk), where we host our activities, we aim to build a nationally recognised centre of excellence that supports personal growth, wellbeing, and connection with nature. Through hands-on learning, community building, and cultural exchange, we empower individuals and groups to explore sustainable living, ethical land stewardship, and the transformative potential of nature-based education.

Our Values

Community
We foster a culture of care, connection, and belonging. We create space for people to come together in joy, learning, and mutual support, building relationships rooted in respect and shared purpose.

Stewardship
We honour the land as a living system and recognise that the wellbeing of people and nature are deeply interconnected. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of ethical and responsible stewards — who care for the earth, each other, and future generations.

Equity & Inclusion
We are dedicated to removing barriers so that people of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities can access and participate fully in experiences of farming, countryside living, and sustainability. We celebrate diversity and work to create welcoming spaces where everyone can thrive.

Connection with Nature
We centre our actions on a deep respect for the natural world. We believe in restoring and nurturing the bond between humans and nature, creating a place where both can flourish in harmony.
 

Job description

We are thrilled to welcome a Finance Lead to support our Operational Director and Fundraising Team at a pivotal time for our charity.

After a challenging period of inactivity due to the impacts of Covid, we are excited to embark on a new chapter, as we are ready to restart our activities in 2025 and to develop our projects and create a positive impact in our community.

This is a unique opportunity for those eager to be part of a project evolving from its early stages to the launching of new initiatives. The volunteer will have ample opportunity to learn about charity structure, develop skills within the third sector and grow with the charity.

We are looking for a passionate and articulate person to fill this role.
 

What this position entails

We are looking for a dedicated volunteer who can provide long-term support to our charity as we prepare to relaunch our activities after a period of inactivity post-Covid.

The Volunteer Finance Lead will assist the Fundraising team and the Operational Director in creating budgets, clarifying budget limitations, preparing cash flow forecasts, and ensuring the charity has a comprehensive understanding of operational and project costs to help us secure necessary funding.

Ideal candidates should be genuinely passionate about our mission and values, work well in a team, and be able to communicate financial information clearly to those who may not have a finance background.

As a Finance Lead, your main responsibilities will include:

• Give general financial advice for projects, events and activities strategy.
• Take leadership in preparing cash flow forecasts.
• Clarifying budget limitations.
• Take leadership on producing projected budgets, outlining expected income and expenses for specific periods of the charity lifecycle, helping our charity plan our finances and allocate resources.
• Taking on leadership for producing all events/activities/projects budgets and keeping accurate reporting of post-projects income/expenses records and producing reports to the board of trustees.
• Monitoring the financial health of all our projects.
• Produce general quarterly financial reporting to management and the board of trustees, highlighting points of concern.
• Contributing to decisions regarding financial strategy for our projects.
• Understanding and reporting costs for specific areas: internal staff, delivery staff, running activities etc.
• Able to recommend improvements and implement changes on financial processes and procedures, supporting the operational team to have clarity on our financial health.

What do you need to become our Finance Lead?

Essential:

• 3+ plus experience with accounts/finance
• Fully qualified Accountant or relevant financial qualification.
• Highly experienced with budgets and cost management of projects.
• Numerate, accurate individual with strong Excel, Word, and presentation skills
• Professional approach.
• Experience of working with small teams and communicating financial information clearly to those who may not have a finance background.
• Able to work on own initiative with a conscientious approach, always looking to continuously improve processes and be dedicated to the improvement of our charity's financial processes and procedures.

As a volunteer-led charity, it’s essential for us to find someone who understands the importance of being part of our team and engaging in the growth of the charity. Therefore, we will prioritise applications from volunteers who are committed to a long-term partnership and want to be an integral member of our team.

By getting involved you will gain:

• A chance to expand your skills in charity strategic operations and fundraising.
• This is an excellent opportunity for professionals eager to utilise their talents to address community needs and contribute to reducing inequality.
• Additionally, this is an excellent starting point for those wanting to work in the third sector but lacking the experience.

Location: Fully Remote. But we welcome those who wish to come and visit the farm at least once to understand more about us.

Commitment:

We estimate that you'll need to commit around 10 to 15 hours each month. However, depending on the specific projects/events running, there may be times when you need to invest more time, while other months might require less support. We're looking for a volunteer who is excited to build a long-term partnership with us and can adapt their schedule as needed.

We can be flexible and work with you to find hours that fit ours and your schedule, working out of office hours or weekends - all help is much appreciated!

As a volunteer-led charity, we prioritise volunteers who want to become part of our team of volunteers rather than those looking for a temporary assignment. Therefore, we won’t accept applications from volunteers who cannot commit to at least 5-6 months with us.

How to apply:

Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application.

Please send your CV and cover letter demonstrating your relevant experience and why you would like to get involved with our charity. 

We will be holding interviews starting on the 15th May.

If we find some great candidates, we may close the vacancy earlier than the application deadline mentioned. So don't delay - apply today!

Job Notes:

The volunteer acknowledges their responsibility to perform their tasks diligently and to promptly inform their line manager of any concerns that may arise during their volunteering period. Given the time commitment required for this position, we regret to inform that we cannot provide references for volunteers who serve less than three months with us.