Activities volunteer roles
We are looking for trustees who will offer challenges, experience, and expert knowledge to help us think differently. We are looking for individuals who will take an active role in the governance of the Charity and support our expansion objectives - to remain financially stable whilst actively growing our volunteer network, our geographical coverage and our paid services to increase the number of families and young people we can support each year.
Person specification:
• Good, independent judgement and strategic vision.
• Commitment to the organisation and a willingness and ability to devote the necessary time & effort to the role.
• An understanding of, or interest in, special educational needs and disability affecting children and young people and their families.
• Skills to analyse proposals, examine their strategic consequences and make concise recommendations as part of the Board.
• Ability to cooperatively work with the whole team of trustees, and with employees and volunteers.
• Willingness to speak your mind and appropriately challenge other trustees and employees; but also listen to the views of different people before reaching a decision.
• Secure personal access to digital communication technology with an ability to competently and efficiently use those resources.
• Willingness to be available to employees for advice and enquiries on a scheduled or ad-hoc basis.
The ideal applicant would also possess the following:
• Extensive networks, and a willingness to draw on contacts as appropriate.
• Experience of working at a senior management / leadership level.
We are keen to hear from anyone who has a passion for our cause and feels that their experiences and expertise could be beneficial to our Board.
If you would like to be considered, please contact us for an application form link and provide a copy of your CV.
The application process will comprise of a two-stage interview, followed by referencing. We anticipate that successful applicants will be invited to join the Board in Autumn 2025.
We look forward to hearing from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
About Impetus
Impetus transforms the education and employment outcomes of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly those facing systemic barriers.
We do this by using our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact.
Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life. We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.
You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve.
Governance
Impetus is a charitable company registered with the Charities Commission (Charity number 1152262) in 2013 under its Memorandum and Articles (governing document). The governing body of the charity is the Board of Trustees, led by our Chair. The Board sets strategy and reviews policy. Day-to-day responsibility is delegated to the Chief Executive Officer, who works closely with the Chair. We have several committees and advisory groups made up of experts from a range of fields, providing in-depth review and oversight of our activities led, where possible, by Trustees.
Trustees are aware of and comply with the duty to act in the public benefit in accordance with section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 and members are listed on the administrative details page of our website. The governing body also meets as the sole corporate Trustee of The Youth Endowment Fund, a registered charitable trust.
Our Trustees provide strategic direction, hold the executive to account, and safeguard our mission and values. At Impetus, we recognise that a diverse Board strengthens our governance and better reflects the communities we serve, and we are now seeking two new Trustees. One with significant expertise in public affairs, government relations, or political communications, and one with extensive experience of the chairty sector. These roles will strengthen our ability to invest with stronger insight, as well as to shape policy and secure the systems level change needed to give every young person a fair chance to succeed.
About this role
This role will complement the existing strengths of our Board, which includes leaders from business, civil society and philanthropy. We are seeking a candidate with deep charity sector experience who can bring insight and challenge to our work supporting frontline delivery organisations. The successful candidate will help ensure our strategic decisions remain grounded in the realities of the young people we serve and the charities that support them. They will play a key role in strengthening how we partner with our portfolio, and in championing systemic change across the education and employment landscape for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Commitment:
1 term (3 years) - with a possible second term extension
Time commitment:
Part-time, flexible. Includes Board meetings (5 per year), occasional sub-committee meetings (up to 4 per year), an annual strategic Board away day, and attendance at in-person events.
Location:
Hybrid. While much work can be done remotely, we expect Trustees to attend in-person meetings in central London and at key events throughout the year.
Reports to:
Chair of Trustees
Key responsibilities
Charity Sector Related:
- Bring insight from your experience in the charity sector to strengthen Board understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing frontline delivery organisations.
- Champion the needs and perspectives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring their lived experience remains central to our strategy and decisions.
- Support the Investment Committee with sector insight to inform funding and partnership decisions across our portfolio.
- Offer strategic guidance on how to deepen our support to charity partners and strengthen their capacity to deliver impactful outcomes at scale.
- Help shape our organisational approach to working in partnership with delivery organisations, ensuring it is rooted in trust, challenge and a shared commitment to excellence.
Role in Relation to the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF):
- Impetus is the legal entity accountable for the Youth Endowment Fund (YEF), which operates under the strategic direction of an independent Committee, chaired by an Impetus Trustee. While this trustee role does not sit on the YEF Committee, the Impetus Board retains overall governance responsibility for the Fund’s effective delivery, including safeguarding and financial oversight.
- The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the public affairs landscape and the role of policy, funding, and government relationships in shaping large-scale initiatives like YEF. They will recognise the significance of YEF’s mission in preventing youth violence and the importance of influencing government decisions on future funding streams, including opportunities such as the Dormant Assets Fund. They will contribute to Board-level discussions with strategic insight and a clear grasp of their non-executive responsibilities.
Core Trustee Responsibilities:
- Attend quarterly Board meetings and occasional sub-committee or strategy sessions.
- Provide oversight of organisational performance, risk, and compliance.
- Ensure the charity is governed effectively and in line with legal obligations.
- Support the CEO and leadership team with advice, challenge, and strategic insight.
- Review and understand core governance documents (e.g. Articles of Association, audited accounts).
- Complete the necessary documentation, such as declarations of interest and trustee eligibility.
Person specification
Essential skills and experience:
- Substantial experience in the UK charity sector, ideally with a focus on improving outcomes for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- A deep understanding of the operational and strategic challenges faced by frontline delivery organisations, including funding, growth, and impact measurement.
- Experience working in or with youth-focused charities, with a clear commitment to addressing the systemic barriers young people face.
- Proven ability to bring charity sector insight to strategic decision-making, particularly in support of long-term organisational partnerships.
- Ability to bring constructive challenge and sound judgement to Board discussions, with diplomacy and clarity.
- Strong alignment with Impetus’ mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve their potential.
- A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
At Impetus, we believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.
We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experience, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, ages and genders. We particularly welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, whether through professional experience, cultural background, or personal journeys that include the challenges faced by the young people we serve. We value the diversity of thought and perspective lived experience can bring, while recognising that personal experience is not something we expect candidates to disclose or revisit.
Induction and Training
At Impetus, we’re committed to ensuring that every trustee feels informed, supported, and confident in their role from day one. Our structured induction process includes a comprehensive welcome pack, access to key organisational documents and strategy, one-to-one meetings with staff and fellow trustees, and the opportunity to observe our work in action. We ask new trustees to commit three to four hours over their first few months to fully engage in the induction process. We take this seriously because we know that strong, effective governance starts with clarity, connection, and a shared understanding of our mission to transform the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
How to apply
You will need to:
- Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
- Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.
The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.
If you wish to have an informal discussion about the opportunity, please contact recruitment.
The deadline for applications is August 22nd, 2025
Interviews
Interviews will take place in the end of August, or as applications come in, to suit both the availability of the applicants as well as members of the Impetus Leadership Team and Board.
Personal Data
Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.
Registered Charity
51 - 100
Impetus transforms the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by ensuring they get support to succeed in school, in work and in life.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Lead Volunteer
Mind Retail
About the role
Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.
Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!
You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:
· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team
· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience
· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills
· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills
· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions
· Understanding of sales information, including takings
· Commercial knowledge and skills
· Understanding of policies and procedures
· Administrative skills
· IT skills
· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses
Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!
We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?
Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!
About You
- Commitment to our values & behaviours
- Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
- Flexible and adaptable approach
- Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
- Able to build good working relationships
- Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
- Willingness to learn
- Good customer service skills
- Good communication skills
About Mind Retail
Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.
Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.
Our Commitment
We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.
Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…
Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.
I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.
Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…
It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.
Registered Charity
Mind Retail are a network of over 170 Mind charity shops across England and Wales.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
What are Serving Community Teams?
Volunteers are the lifeblood of SSAFA. SSAFA has developed Serving Community Teams for volunteers to support serving personnel their families in the UK and overseas.
A Serving Community Team is run by a small team of volunteers on or near a British Armed Forces base, to provide emotional, practical and financial support to the serving community. Our volunteer Administration Coordinators are an integral part of the team supporting the volunteers to host meetings, events and support beneficiaries in their local community.
Why we want you
There is a SSAFA presence throughout the serving community, both in the UK and overseas. In many areas SSAFA has Serving Community Teams which offer financial, practical, and emotional support to serving personnel and their families. Each team consists of a group of dedicated volunteers who make this possible. That’s where your skills come in. Could you spare some time to provide excellent administration support to the team of volunteers on a regular basis? The Administration Coordinator keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. This is a key role involving organising and recording team meetings, supporting with general planning, and helping with events administration.
What you will be doing
- Providing administrative support for Serving Community Team meetings - at least four per year, held either in person or online. This includes sending invites and recording minutes.
- Working with the Chair and wider volunteer team to create an annual plan of activity based on local need.
- Supporting members of the team with general administration tasks. For example, helping with fundraising events, local engagement and publicity events.
- Responding to general enquiries to the SCT where needed.
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable with good written and communication skills.
- Empathy regarding the needs and challenges of the serving community.
- Good IT and administration skills.
- Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
- Understanding the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
- A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.
- We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA is 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.
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others.
- Give back to the Armed Forces community.
- Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across the serving community and local area.
- Gain 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!
Requirements
Volunteers need to be a minimum of 18 years old.
Time commitment
Depending on the needs of the team, this role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a couple of hours a week. There will be times when attendance is required for a team meeting which may be in person or virtually.
Support
Full training is provided for this role, with some e-learning modules online and a live Teams webinar. You will also be supported by your SCT chair and Serving Community Support Team.
SSAFA Values
For SSAFA, our values of; commitment, compassion, integrity and understanding underpin everything we do, and we ask that all volunteers are equally committed to them.
After making an application
Once you’ve applied, you’ll receive updates to the email address you provided in your application. Sometimes the emails we send go into junk folders, so do keep an eye out in the days following your application.
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.
Thank you!
Lead Volunteer
Mind Retail
About the role
Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.
Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!
You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:
· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team
· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience
· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills
· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills
· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions
· Understanding of sales information, including takings
· Commercial knowledge and skills
· Understanding of policies and procedures
· Administrative skills
· IT skills
· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses
Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!
We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?
Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!
About You
- Commitment to our values & behaviours
- Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
- Flexible and adaptable approach
- Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
- Able to build good working relationships
- Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
- Willingness to learn
- Good customer service skills
- Good communication skills
About Mind Retail
Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.
Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.
Our Commitment
We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.
Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…
Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.
I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.
Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…
It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.
Registered Charity
Mind Retail are a network of over 170 Mind charity shops across England and Wales.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an exciting opportunity to join a charity at the very start and to make a difference in shaping how we move forward.
Who are we looking for?
At present we are working towards being fully operational, over the next year Living Reasons will be looking to ensure that all of our operational activity, whether internally or with people who come in contact with the organisation, are having the best experience they can possibly have and that the work we are carrying out, the campaigns we are focusing on and where we are focusing our time and our money, is relevant and remains so moving forward.
That is where I lived experience board of volunteers comes in. In essence that lived experience board is the driver for all that we do as an organisation and will inform, guide and develop the organisation.
The board is broken in to separate lived experiences which hold focus groups, support groups and communicated with each other to talk about members lived experiences, support each other and feel part of a community, while also using the voice and power of that lived experience to bring about change. The board chooses what information is passed on to the organisation and what is not.
Additionally, to the community aspects of the role, you will also be sent specific materials to share your experiences or take part in research or in new policy discussions or campaign ideas as the organisation evolves.
Additionally, to the specific lived experience groups, the full board can communicate with each other and will have periodic full board meetings that will allow people to share their experiences from various viewpoints, so that cross overs and shared experiences can become strength but can also guide the overall operation of Living Reasons.
For this role, all you need is to have lived experience of mental health conditions, either from a personal viewpoint, or as a supporter/care giver/guardian/family member. There will be two separate groups (one for personal experience and people who are supporting someone – this allows for different conversations to happen).
This role will really drive change, not just in Living Reasons as an organisation, but in society as a whole.
What is the plan?
The person who is starting the charity up is autistic, has ADHD, CPTSD and also multiple physical conditions that effect daily life and is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has faced a lot of issues in life because of these things.
Living Reasons is being created to fix what we think is a challenging situation that is getting harder to achieve every week, month and year in the current economic, political, environmental and societal landscape. It is not easily defined but we hope the charity objects below will help put context to what we want to achieve, what we can say is that below are the issues we are trying to address, how we do this will change as quickly as society does, but the issues we want to tackle are these:
1) Outdated and damaging employment practices
2) Accessibility to services
3) Limited employment, training and education opportunities
4) Lack of support during times of crisis or need
5) Lack of equity and agency for many people in society
6) Institutional discrimination that is not challenged
7) Abuse of the legal system at all levels
8) Abuse of power in government bodies
9) Poor access to healthcare
10) Unequal treatment of many people in society by large corporations
11) Assumptions made by wider society based on incorrect, outdated or discriminatory rhetoric that is used in daily life
12) Outdated company engagement with the public
13) Lack of support that is not talked about and not being addressed
Our Living Values -
Creativity
1) Imaginative Development (Individual)
2) Instilled Collaboration (Internal)
3) Changing The Status Quo (External)
Prospectivity
1) What Can You Do (Individual)
2) What Can We Do (Internal)
3) What Can They Do (External)
Revolutionary
1) Inspire With Confidence (Individual)
2) Boundaryless Innovation (Internal)
3) Challenge Traditions (External)
Attentivity
1) Analyse and Redesign (Individual)
2) Rebel and Reform (Internal)
3) Enquire and Reimagine (External)
Non Charity Employer
1 - 5
To create equality and equity in all areas of society, opening opportunities that are less damaging and focused on the person as a whole.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Please note this is a voluntary role and as such there will be no provision of salary or employee status.
Are you looking for a new challenge? We are seeking to appoint suitable individuals as Volunteer Panel Members (known as Associate Hospital Managers - AHMs) to work independently of our Trust and clinical teams who assess and treat people detained under the Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA).
If you are an organised, articulate person with a broad experience of life, who can work collaboratively, work within specified procedures and is passionate about delivering high quality mental health services, then this rewarding role may be worth considering.
The MHA 1983 sets out procedures under which a detained patient may ask for a review of their detention heard by a panel of three or more AHMs. Written evidence is taken from appropriate doctors, nurses, and social workers; oral evidence is taken from these professionals, from the patient and others as appropriate.
The Trust presents its case for continuing detention under the applicable section of the MHA. The patient may have the support of a legal representative or an advocate. Following review, section 23 of the MHA provides that the Associate Hospital Managers may exercise the power to discharge a patient. Similar procedures are followed in the regular review of detentions, renewals and extensions.
Main duties of the job
- To understand the Mental Health Act 1983 (MHA) and the MHA 1983 Code of Practice, with particular reference to the role of managers (MHA (1983) Section 2, 3, 37, 20, and 23 and MHA 1983 Code of Practice Chapters 37 and 38). An electronic link to the Code of Practice will be issued on appointment.
- To sit on a panel with two or more other AHMs and conduct a hearing (online and in person)
- To read reports on a patient's mental state, their social circumstances, and nursing care. These reports will include existing care plans and arrangements for after care. The panel may then interview and question the patient professionals and other family members/carers of the patient at hearings.
- If present, to help the patient explain why they wish to be discharged from detention, sympathetically and openly at hearings.
- To balance information presented and decide whether to exercise the power to discharge. Discharge from detention can only be affected by the unanimous decision of 3 AHMs.
- To confirm the decision for continued detention/continuation of Community Treatment Order (CTO) or discharge the patient.
- To attend relevant meetings and AHM related training as required
About us
Oxford Health is a great place to volunteer and to be able to make a difference to how we deliver care across our communities and mental health services.
As a Trust we provide physical, mental health and social care for people of all ages across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Swindon, Wiltshire, Bath and Northeast Somerset. Our services are delivered at community bases, hospitals, clinics and people's homes, delivering care as close to home as possible. Our vision is that no matter who you are or where you are, you will tell us that you receive: "Outstanding care delivered by an outstanding team"
Our values are: "Caring, safe and excellent"
Job responsibilities
AHMs are independent volunteers who work in accordance with the guidance outlined in the Code of Practice to the MHA 1983 to review patients compulsory detention and Community Treatment Orders against statutory criteria. The Code of Practice to the MHA 1983 specifically states that AHMs cannot be employees of the organisation.
You will be expected to attend at least two hearings per month either via Teams or in person at one of our hospital sites. You will be reimbursed for travel expenses and an attendance fee of £50 is payable per hearing. You will be provided with a Trust laptop to carry out AHM duties.
Please review the role description attached for a comprehensive overview of duties and requirements relating to this role.
The Trust will support you by providing a comprehensive induction, as well as training and development for the role, mentoring and professional review. You will be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred in relation to the role and an attendance fee is payable per hearing.
Interviews for this role will be held on Monday 8 September and Tuesday 9 September at the Littlemore Mental Health Centre in Oxford.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Would you like to help end food poverty and tackle climate change and CO2 emissions in Greater Manchester, whilst at the same time gaining valuable CV-enhancing experience and skills?
What we offer you
Induction, training and support from the staff of FareShare and its parent charity, EMERGE 3Rs.
Practical experience and transferable skills in warehousing and food redistribution.
Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses up to £5.80 for travel and up to £3 for lunch, upon completion of a 4 hour shift. (We can also provide you with lunch if you don't bring your own).
A reference after 2 months with us.
An understanding of warehousing and logistics, and the importance of food surplus and recycling initiatives.
As a sustainability charity, we take surplus food that's donated to us and redistribute it to people in need. The front line initiatives we support include food banks, schools, community groups and charities who, in turn, help people who are disadvantaged by poverty.
Our vital work supports people experiencing extreme hardship and prevents perfectly good food going to landfill, where it would otherwise contribute to climate warming.
We need helping hands in our busy warehouse to receive and catalogue supplies, to load and unload vans, and to prepare orders for delivery. In return we offer training and support to help you obtain skills and experience to boost your CV if you are seeking work. If you're not looking for employment, volunteering with us is rewarding in many other ways; offering an opportunity to make friends, keep physically active and support your community.
This role is vital to the work of FareShare, ensuring that the food in our warehouse is correctly sorted, labelled and organised into orders placed by our charities and community groups.
It is perfect for someone who is:
a) Looking for a practical activity.
b) Looking for experience and skills to gain employment in the food industry, warehousing and customer service.
c) Wanting to help their community and/or help tackle global warming.
d) Wanting to make new friends.
e) Wanting to keep busy and/or physically fit.
Our volunteer opportunities are available Monday to Friday, for a whole or half day, with shifts between 8:30-am - 12:30pm and 12:30 - 4:30pm. Volunteers are typically involved for one day a week.
What will I be doing?
Receiving, sorting, cataloguing and storing chilled and ambient surplus food in a warehouse, and preparing orders for delivery. You may also be assisting customers when they pick up their orders.
Ensuring food quality and safety by checking ‘use by’ and ‘best before’ dates.
Sorting and unpacking deliveries, categorising and recording food.
Assembling food orders placed by charities and community groups.
Assisting our Community Food Members with their food order collections.
Maintaining health and safety and food hygiene standards.
Helping with cleaning and other tasks identified by warehouse staff.
Person Specification:
Must be reasonably physically fit to carry out tasks, including lifting and loading.
Have a good command of English in order to understand and follow instructions and health and safety rules.
Have basic literacy and numeracy skills to record quantities and types of food donated.
Able to work in a manner that respects Health and Safety standards.
Be happy to complete tasks independently according to instruction.
Be positive, friendly and enthusiastic about tackling food waste and food poverty.
Must be reliable and able to commit to an agreed session/day.
We are located in our brand new depot at Maynard House, New Smithfield Market, Openshaw, Manchester M11 2WJ.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us.
This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles.
We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.
Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)
Registered Charity
21 - 50
As a leading food charity to tackle hunger, our aim is to help tackle the food poverty issue in Greater Manchester.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
SANE is a UK-wide mental health charity working to improve the quality of life of anyone affected by mental illness. It aims to raise awareness and understanding of all mental health conditions; fight to improve frontline mental health services for individuals and carers; provide support, information and guidance through its helpline, email and text support and Online Forum; and promote and host research into causes, treatments and therapies.
About the role:
We are now looking for people interested in providing compassionate support to those affected by mental health problems, particularly people with severe mental illness, and carers, families and friends. As a volunteer, you will provide support on-site, in our Islington offices, by telephone. You will also form a close team with our other skilled volunteers and shift leads.
Volunteering can help improve mental well-being, increase physical activity, enhance social bonds and bring meaning to people's lives. It is an excellent way of putting a structure on your free time and keeping your brain active. When you volunteer, you feel useful to and valued by your community.
SANEline Volunteers provide support to callers with a wide range of mental health problems via our confidential crisis line, which is open from 4-10pm, 365 days a year.
Working on SANEline requires empathy and resilience, and we take pride in providing a nurturing environment and unwavering support to our team.
About you:
- You are empathetic, highly compassionate and genuinely interested in supporting people from all walks of life
- You are a good listener and a warm and confident communicator
- You have a few hours to spare each week and want to use that time to make a difference to help vulnerable people
- You can commit to one 4-hour shift per week, including one weekend shift per month
- You are looking for a way to continue using skills built up over your working life or a route to learn and explore new avenues previously blocked by the demands of your career or job.
- You can work collaboratively with our team and volunteers to ensure delivery of a high-quality service on SANEline
- No previous helpline or mental health experience is required, just a sincere desire to help others
Altogether, we are looking for warm, compassionate, understanding and committed people who are good communicators to join our services team as a volunteer.
You don't need to be a mental health expert: empathy and commitment matter more than academic qualifications or experience, and we’re keen to hear from people of all ages and walks of life.
We particularly encourage applications from retirees, empty nesters, or people changing careers and wanting to develop new skills.
This summer, we will run two drop-in sessions for you to find out more about SANE and ask any questions you may have about volunteering with us.
What can you expect?
To work within SANE's framework, including regular check-ins and debriefs to support you and help refine your newly acquired skills.
To receive the full SANEline training and further online training opportunities within specific areas.
To become part of an established and diverse team.
To gain exposure to a wide range of mental health problems.
To gain valuable practical experience in providing emotional support to vulnerable people.
A culture where team members support and learn from each other.
A warm, supportive and encouraging environment.
To apply: Please click on "Apply via Website" and fill in the form to register your interest. We will then get in touch and let you know about the following steps.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an exciting opportunity to join a charity at the very start and to make a difference in shaping how we move forward.
Who are we looking for?
At present we are working towards being fully operational, over the next year Living Reasons will be looking to ensure that all of our operational activity, whether internally or with people who come in contact with the organisation, are having the best experience they can possibly have and that the work we are carrying out, the campaigns we are focusing on and where we are focusing our time and our money, is relevant and remains so moving forward.
That is where I lived experience board of volunteers comes in. In essence that lived experience board is the driver for all that we do as an organisation and will inform, guide and develop the organisation.
The board is broken in to separate lived experiences which hold focus groups, support groups and communicated with each other to talk about members lived experiences, support each other and feel part of a community, while also using the voice and power of that lived experience to bring about change. The board chooses what information is passed on to the organisation and what is not.
Additionally, to the community aspects of the role, you will also be sent specific materials to share your experiences or take part in research or in new policy discussions or campaign ideas as the organisation evolves.
Additionally, to the specific lived experience groups, the full board can communicate with each other and will have periodic full board meetings that will allow people to share their experiences from various viewpoints, so that cross overs and shared experiences can become strength but can also guide the overall operation of Living Reasons.
For this role, all you need is to have lived experience of autism, ADHD, dyslexia or dyspraxia, either from a personal viewpoint, or as a supporter/care giver/guardian/family member. There will be two separate groups (one for personal experience and people who are supporting someone – this allows for different conversations to happen).
This role will really drive change, not just in Living Reasons as an organisation, but in society as a whole.
What is the plan?
The person who is starting the charity up is autistic, has ADHD, CPTSD and also multiple physical conditions that effect daily life and is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has faced a lot of issues in life because of these things.
Living Reasons is being created to fix what we think is a challenging situation that is getting harder to achieve every week, month and year in the current economic, political, environmental and societal landscape. It is not easily defined but we hope the charity objects below will help put context to what we want to achieve, what we can say is that below are the issues we are trying to address, how we do this will change as quickly as society does, but the issues we want to tackle are these:
1) Outdated and damaging employment practices
2) Accessibility to services
3) Limited employment, training and education opportunities
4) Lack of support during times of crisis or need
5) Lack of equity and agency for many people in society
6) Institutional discrimination that is not challenged
7) Abuse of the legal system at all levels
8) Abuse of power in government bodies
9) Poor access to healthcare
10) Unequal treatment of many people in society by large corporations
11) Assumptions made by wider society based on incorrect, outdated or discriminatory rhetoric that is used in daily life
12) Outdated company engagement with the public
13) Lack of support that is not talked about and not being addressed
Our Living Values -
Creativity
1) Imaginative Development (Individual)
2) Instilled Collaboration (Internal)
3) Changing The Status Quo (External)
Prospectivity
1) What Can You Do (Individual)
2) What Can We Do (Internal)
3) What Can They Do (External)
Revolutionary
1) Inspire With Confidence (Individual)
2) Boundaryless Innovation (Internal)
3) Challenge Traditions (External)
Attentivity
1) Analyse and Redesign (Individual)
2) Rebel and Reform (Internal)
3) Enquire and Reimagine (External)
Non Charity Employer
1 - 5
To create equality and equity in all areas of society, opening opportunities that are less damaging and focused on the person as a whole.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Would you like to help end food poverty and tackle climate change and CO2 emissions in Greater Manchester, whilst at the same time gaining valuable CV-enhancing experience and skills?
What we offer you
Induction, training and support from the staff of FareShare and its parent charity, EMERGE 3Rs.
Practical experience and transferable skills in warehousing and food redistribution.
Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses up to £5.80 for travel and up to £3 for lunch, upon completion of a 4 hour shift. (We can also provide you with lunch if you don't bring your own).
A reference after 2 months with us.
An understanding of warehousing and logistics, and the importance of food surplus and recycling initiatives.
As a sustainability charity, we take surplus food that's donated to us and redistribute it to people in need. The front line initiatives we support include food banks, schools, community groups and charities who, in turn, help people who are disadvantaged by poverty.
Our vital work supports people experiencing extreme hardship and prevents perfectly good food going to landfill, where it would otherwise contribute to climate warming.
We need helping hands in our busy warehouse to receive and catalogue supplies, to load and unload vans, and to prepare orders for delivery. In return we offer training and support to help you obtain skills and experience to boost your CV if you are seeking work. If you're not looking for employment, volunteering with us is rewarding in many other ways; offering an opportunity to make friends, keep physically active and support your community.
This role is vital to the work of FareShare, ensuring that the food in our warehouse is correctly sorted, labelled and organised into orders placed by our charities and community groups.
It is perfect for someone who is:
a) Looking for a practical activity.
b) Looking for experience and skills to gain employment in the food industry, warehousing and customer service.
c) Wanting to help their community and/or help tackle global warming.
d) Wanting to make new friends.
e) Wanting to keep busy and/or physically fit.
Our volunteer opportunities are available Monday to Friday, for a whole or half day, with shifts between 8:30-am - 12:30pm and 12:30 - 4:30pm. Volunteers are typically involved for one day a week.
What will I be doing?
Receiving, sorting, cataloguing and storing chilled and ambient surplus food in a warehouse, and preparing orders for delivery. You may also be assisting customers when they pick up their orders.
Ensuring food quality and safety by checking ‘use by’ and ‘best before’ dates.
Sorting and unpacking deliveries, categorising and recording food.
Assembling food orders placed by charities and community groups.
Assisting our Community Food Members with their food order collections.
Maintaining health and safety and food hygiene standards.
Helping with cleaning and other tasks identified by warehouse staff.
Person Specification:
Must be reasonably physically fit to carry out tasks, including lifting and loading.
Have a good command of English in order to understand and follow instructions and health and safety rules.
Have basic literacy and numeracy skills to record quantities and types of food donated.
Able to work in a manner that respects Health and Safety standards.
Be happy to complete tasks independently according to instruction.
Be positive, friendly and enthusiastic about tackling food waste and food poverty.
Must be reliable and able to commit to an agreed session/day.
We are located in our brand new depot at Maynard House, New Smithfield Market, Openshaw, Manchester M11 2WJ.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us.
This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles.
We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.
Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)
Registered Charity
21 - 50
As a leading food charity to tackle hunger, our aim is to help tackle the food poverty issue in Greater Manchester.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Lead Volunteer
Mind Retail
About the role
Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.
Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!
You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:
· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team
· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience
· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills
· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills
· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions
· Understanding of sales information, including takings
· Commercial knowledge and skills
· Understanding of policies and procedures
· Administrative skills
· IT skills
· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses
Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!
We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?
Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!
About You
- Commitment to our values & behaviours
- Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
- Flexible and adaptable approach
- Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
- Able to build good working relationships
- Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
- Willingness to learn
- Good customer service skills
- Good communication skills
About Mind Retail
Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.
Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.
Our Commitment
We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.
Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…
Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.
I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.
Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…
It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.
Registered Charity
Mind Retail are a network of over 170 Mind charity shops across England and Wales.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Lead Volunteer
Mind Retail
About the role
Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.
Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!
You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:
· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team
· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience
· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills
· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills
· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions
· Understanding of sales information, including takings
· Commercial knowledge and skills
· Understanding of policies and procedures
· Administrative skills
· IT skills
· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses
Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!
We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?
Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!
About You
- Commitment to our values & behaviours
- Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
- Flexible and adaptable approach
- Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
- Able to build good working relationships
- Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
- Willingness to learn
- Good customer service skills
- Good communication skills
About Mind Retail
Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.
Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.
Our Commitment
We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.
Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…
Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.
I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.
Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop
Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?
I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.
What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?
As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.
What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?
Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…
It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.
Registered Charity
Mind Retail are a network of over 170 Mind charity shops across England and Wales.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join Manor Gardens Welfare Trust (MGWT) as a Trustee and play a pivotal role in empowering communities to thrive. Help us deliver innovative, culturally competent services tackling inequalities and improving lives across Islington and beyond.
MGWT has been at the heart of community support since 1913, continuously evolving to meet contemporary challenges. Our dynamic hub in Upper Holloway supports over 2,600 people annually, promoting health, wellbeing, and social inclusion among diverse, underserved communities. Our services include multilingual advocacy, mental health support and therapy services, youth service provision as well as chairing Islington's award-winning Food Partnership working for a sustainable food system in the borough.
Although MGWT is a local charity, we have a notable track record of innovation and wider impact. We pioneered the first LGBTQ+ youth group in Europe and launched the UK's first specialist psychotherapy service for survivors of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Our groundbreaking work continues to inform practices and policies at both local and national levels.
We are particularly seeking trustees with skills in fundraising (including expertise in securing grants from trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, statutory funding, legacies, and major gifts), Human Resources, and communications. Knowledge, experience, and a thorough understanding of the charity sector are essential, alongside a demonstrable commitment to our values. Previous board experience is desirable but not essential. We particularly welcome candidates with lived experience of the issues we are seeking to address, including socioeconomic inequality, mental health, and the asylum process.
Trustees commit roughly 6 hours monthly, guiding strategic direction, ensuring effective governance, promoting equality and inclusion, and serving as ambassadors for MGWT’s vital work.
Registered Charity
51 - 100
Because everyone should have good health, resilience and opportunity.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteering with ICYE UK is a transformational experience with real impact. Our ethical programmes promote peace, intercultural awareness and equality of opportunity, encouraging young people from around the world to live, learn and work together.
You can apply now to join us on our 6 or 12 month long-term placements starting in either January/February or August/September next year, to work with locally run NGOs abroad on impactful projects that matter. Examples include:
- Human rights projects
- Women’s empowerment projects
- Supporting the elderly or people with compromised health and/or disabilities
- Environmental and wildlife conservation
- Sustainable agriculture projects
- Providing education, care and support for children growing up in adverse conditions
- Sports, arts or cultural projects
- Community development programmes
- And many more!
In addition, 3 to 5 month short-term placements with flexible start dates are also available in some of our partner countries.
Whether you join us on the long or short term programme, this experience will allow you to further your personal and professional development and be part of an exchange of cultures and ideas. In addition, you’ll gain valuable transferable skills and experience and boost your independence and confidence.
As a volunteer, you will live in accommodation within the local community, in most cases with a host family. This provides an immersive experience where you can develop your language skills and engage closely with the people and culture of your host country. To help you with this, a course of language lessons is also included as part of the long-term programme.
While we have projects to suit most areas of interest, ICYE UK doesn’t recruit based on specific pre-existing skills or qualifications. All we look for are passionate volunteers with a desire to gain cultural, language and work experience while contributing to the work of a local NGO abroad. A wonderful opportunity for those looking to volunteer overseas for all or part of a gap year, either after school or after finishing university, as well as for anyone interested in broadening their horizons during a career break.
Not sure where you want to volunteer? We currently have places available in over 20 countries across Europe, Asia, Latin America and Africa, so no matter where you choose to go, you’ll connect with new people, have new experiences, learn, grow, and make an impact.
We know that volunteering overseas can seem daunting, but we’re supportive every step of the way. Before your placement, we offer pre-departure training in skills such as intercultural awareness. We also provide extensive pre- and post-trip support, including how to fundraise for your experience if you need to. Plus, our partner organisations abroad will provide a number of further trainings and will be on hand for any additional support you may need while in the host country.
To make the experience more straightforward, the fee you pay to take part will cover your accommodation and three daily meals for the duration of your placement, being matched with a project in the host country, airport pick-ups, language classes (long-term only), medical and third-party liability insurance, training and evaluation camps, monthly pocket money (long-term only), administrative costs, help with organising flights and visas, support with fundraising where needed, and extensive general support throughout your placement.
Get in touch to find out more, or to start your experience!
*Note: You must be based in the U.K. to apply for this opportunity*
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