Activities volunteer roles

Coffee Shop Volunteer - Prevent Breast Cancer

Commitment/Hours

Morning 9.30am-1pm      Afternoon 1pm-4pm

Purpose/summary of the role

Assisting in the running of the Coffee Shop in a methodical and organised way.

The Coffee Shop plays a significant role in the promotion of the image and work of Prevent Breast Cancer whilst providing a vital service to patients of The Nightingale Centre and Prevent Breast Cancer.

The profits generated are used to support research into breast cancer prediction and prevention.

With this in mind, please find below a list of tasks/ activities which the Prevent Breast Cancer Volunteer will undertake in this area.

Main duties & responsibilities

• To assist and serve customers with food items and beverages.
• To ensure food safety and food hygiene at all times.
• To handle cash and card payments securely.
• To keep the Coffee Shop and areas around, clean and tidy throughout the day.
• To check, use by and sell by dates on all perishables and notify at the end of the day.
• Ability to work on own initiative regarding the upkeep of the Coffee Shop.
• To monitor and record fridge temperatures.

Training will be given on all aspects 

• An e-learning course to be completed
• Health & hygiene in regard to serving food and beverages
• Customer service
• Daily cleaning
• Handling cash and card payments, including training on using a tablet and card reader                        
• Monitor and recording of fridge temperature levels

Prevent Breast Cancer’s Volunteer Person Specification

Experience/Knowledge & Skills

 Essential: 

• Good communication skills
• Empathy with patients, carers and visitors 
• Integrity
• Good verbal and basic written skills
• Commitment to tasks involved 
• Patient, pleasant manner 
• Caring, compassionate and confident
• Honest and reliable in order to maintain confidentiality  
• Respect for the dignity, needs and decisions of customers 
• Provide information to customers 
• An understanding and considerate attitude towards patients, visitors and staff
• Pride in Prevent Breast Cancer, MFT and the NHS and the work volunteers carry out
• An interest in Prevent Breast and vision to prevent breast cancer for the next generation
• Patience and tolerance
• Ability to work on own initiative
• Desire and ability to liaise and work alongside hospital staff
• Good personal presentation and personal hygiene
• Willingness to attend meetings or training sessions requested by the Volunteer Management Team

Desirable: 

• Willing to get involved with other Prevent Breast Cancer events and other volunteer roles, as and when requested
• To have previously volunteered in a medical or care environment 
• Willing to shadow another volunteer and to allow new volunteers to shadow
   
   

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

Branch Trustee (Lancashire)

This is an exciting opportunity to be a hands-on trustee at branch level, helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things. With your support and expertise, we will achieve so much!

Overview of the Branch Trustee opportunity

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long terms aims.

As a minimum, trustees are expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment will vary as they will play an active role supporting branch activities.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Preston and District Branch

The Preston and District Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas:

• Marketing communication including social media, PR, website;
• Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
• Local community and supporter relationships;
• Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or
• Are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.
• You are 18 years of age

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Inspiring, supportive, and committed - just a few of the words we’d use to describe our volunteers. 

At Rethink Mental Illness, volunteers are at the heart of what we do. They play a vital role in supporting our services and making a real difference in people’s lives. If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can have a positive impact while developing your own skills and experience, we’d love you to join us. 

About the role

We are looking for Volunteer Befrienders to support our Brent Mental Health service in the London Borough of Brent. 

As a Volunteer Befriender, you will be required to travel across Brent to meet with service users and carry out your role. Ideally, you will be able to commit a minimum of 2 hours per week to volunteering. 

You will be supported by Befriending Volunteer Coordinators who will provide regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role. You can read more about the benefits of volunteering on the full advert on our website.

About the service

Our Brent Mental Health service provides support to people aged 18 and above, who live in the Borough of Brent, and who have a mental illness and are known to the local NHS trust Central and North West London (CNWL).

The Befriending Service aims to;

• Reduce social isolation of service users
• Increase the confidence of service users in accessing community resources independently
• Provide meaningful activities and peer support for service users 
• Help service users to live happier, healthier, independent lives
• Provide volunteering opportunities for people with mental health issues
• Reduce stigma and raise mental health awareness

What you will be doing as a Volunteer Befriender:

• Meeting with service users in locations and times which meet their needs (including evenings and weekends)
• Provide befriending support to a maximum of 2 service users at any one time
• Provide emotional support based on your own lived experience
• Support service users to access and build social and community networks and activities
• Act as a community connector to local services

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• You will have good communication skills
• You will be flexible to meet the needs of the service users

How to apply 

To apply, simply click the “apply now” button on the advert on our website and complete a short interest form. 

If you would like to express an interest in this opportunity, please complete an application as soon as possible, as the advert may close early if we receive a high level of interest.

Who are we?

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”    

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.    

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion  

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.  

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation  

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.  

We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. 

Trustee vacancy 

The Royal Aeronautical Society is the world’s leading professional body dedicated to aerospace communities. Established in 1866, the Society has been at the forefront of developments in aerospace, seeking to promote the highest professional standards and provide a central forum for sharing knowledge. 

The Society is seeking a committed volunteer with a passion for aerospace to join the Board of Trustees from May 2026. As a Trustee, you will play a strategic role in the charity’s governance and help the Society to meet its charitable objects - the advancement of aeronautical art, science, and engineering around the world.

Main duties and responsibilities 

The Board of Trustees seeks to ensure that it has the skills, experience, diversity of thought and perspective to draw upon in its governance and decision-making roles. Trustees are expected to allocate time to reviewing papers and should actively participate in meetings by leading discussions, focusing on key issues and providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, to ensure that the Society continues to meet the needs of its members through financial sustainability and adherence to its charitable objects. 

Trustees must exercise their powers in strict accordance with the charity’s governing documents (i.e. Royal Charter, By-Laws and Regulations). The duties of a Trustee are as follows: 

• Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing documents, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy 

• Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction 

• Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing documents, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations 

• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects (i.e. the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, however worthwhile or charitable those activities are) and for the benefit of the public 

• Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets 

• Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation 

• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place 

• Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation 

• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds 

• Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the Chief Executive. 

Person specification 

The following characteristics, knowledge and experience are essential: 

• Interest in the charity’s work, the communities it serves and those it represents 

• Clear understanding, and acceptance, of the legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of Trustees, with a sound knowledge of relevant governance 

• Commitment to the values and principles of the charity including commitment to equity, diversity and inclusivity 

• Ability to understand complex strategic issues, analyse and resolve difficult problems 

• Commitment to the highest ethical standards in line with the Nolan principles 

• Sufficient time and commitment to fulfil the role. 

The following characteristics, knowledge and experience would be advantageous: 

• Proven business and financial acumen together with leadership and organisational skills 

• Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills 

• Experience in the aerospace sector and / or understanding of its breadth and depth 

• Experience of management of heritage assets and / or heritage properties. 

Time commitment 

As a member of the Board of Trustees, the appointed individual will be required to attend 4 meetings in a calendar year (usually held on a Monday in March, June, September and November), with each meeting lasting up to 2.5 hours. Trustees should prepare in advance of meetings. Meetings are usually hybrid.

In addition, Trustees will be expected from time to time to engage with Society staff, as well as to devote appropriate preparation time ahead of each engagement. Trustees are expected to meet any additional time commitment that is reasonable (with a further call for commitment from Committee Chairs to fulfil those roles).

This is a voluntary position, and no remuneration is offered. The Society will, however, reimburse all reasonable ‘out of pocket’ expenses for attendance at meetings.

Equity, diversity and inclusion  

As a global membership organisation and Professional Engineering Institution, we believe diversity brings benefits to our members, corporate partners, employees, and other stakeholders. This is why the Society is committed to demonstrating diversity and inclusivity. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified applicants irrespective of background, circumstances, age, disability, gender identity, ethnicity, religion or belief and sexual orientation.

We work to ensure that our processes are as inclusive as possible to everyone. This includes making reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability or long-term condition. If you would like us to make reasonable adjustments during the selection process, please let us know. 

How to apply 

Please submit a CV and a short covering letter, which explains how your knowledge and experience make you a good match for this role. You can find information about how to do this and who to contact on the "Volunteer with us" page of the Royal Aeronautical Society's website. The closing date for this vacancy is Sunday 7 December at 23:59. 

Personal data 

In line with GDPR, we ask that in your CV and covering letter you do NOT send us any information that can identify children or any of your sensitive personal data (racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, data concerning health or sex life and sexual orientation, genetic and/or biometric data). Following this notice, any inclusion of your sensitive personal data in your CV/application documentation will be understood by us as your express consent to process this information going forward. Please also remember to not mention anyone’s information or details (e.g. referees) who have not previously agreed to their inclusion. 

Bi Pride UK’s mission is to create spaces where people who experience attraction beyond gender can be freely visible and celebrate themselves and their identities. It’s not enough to be ‘welcome’ at Pride. We make up a very large proportion of the queer community – the 2021 Census actually shows we’re half of the community – and we deserve to be visible and celebrated in our own right.

There are many ways to make this happen, and we work in many ways to bring this change about:

• Outreach work with other Prides, LGBTQ+ organisations and bi organisations – our consultation work with local Prides, the UK Pride Organisers Network and local and national LGBTQ+ organisations works in a tailored way to make sure that bi inclusion is a top priority and is being done well
• Organising a high-profile annual Bi Pride event – from September 2019, Bi Pride UK made history with the largest ever gathering of bi people recorded. A performance stage, a panel stage, stall village, street food, and over 1,300 attendees. After going virtual with the BiFi Festival for 2020 due to Covid-19 and running a virtual Pride event in 2021, we came back in person in 2022 with a hybrid event, and have been running the event in this format ever since
• Building a strong online and virtual community – just as important as the rest of our work is making sure that people hear about it! People need to know what resources and spaces exist for them, and how they can connect with other people like them

The role:

We are looking for a volunteer to take a lead on our internal and external monitoring and evaluation work; gathering data about different areas of our activities to ensure that we are having as much impact as possible and can communicate that clearly to a variety of audiences. This role will also be responsible for collecting and assessing valuable evidence about the experiences of bi communities in the UK, helping the charity to share insight into the bi community.

Sitting within the Organisational Development team, this role is a crucial connecting point between teams to help the charity continually identify areas for improvement and growth. This is an exciting opportunity to grow within a small team and help to develop this area of the charity’s work, with aspirations to explore opportunities for longer-term, externally-funded research and evaluation projects, and develop a Policy function for the charity. 

Ideal time commitment: approx. 5-10 hours per month; flexible. 

Location: remote/ home based, in-person attendance at events is desirable.

Supported/ supervised by: the Head of Organisational Development, also working closely with the Organisational Development team.

Key tasks of this role will include: 

• Working with the Head of Organisational Development to define impact in a way that allows us to begin measuring our work in a way that makes sense for a charity of our size and maturity;
• Continuing to develop and implement an impact strategy to sit alongside our strategic objectives;
• Liaising with volunteers across Bi Pride UK to develop internal systems and processes for evaluating our activities, projects, programmes and events;
• Leading on generating and analysing data for a variety of purposes, for example, to be used in briefings, annual impact reports, end-of-grant reports, and in social media posts; 
• Promoting and sharing best practice to maximise impact within Bi Pride UK.

Our team volunteers remotely from anywhere in the UK, with some travel required occasionally (primarily for our flagship Pride event in London in August). All reasonable expenses incurred are reimbursed, including travel, lunch at away days and other all day events, and some childcare costs if required. Regular team meetings take place via conference call and are scheduled in line with the team’s best availability. 

Volunteer specification:

• Interest and passion for tackling discrimination against and improving the visibility of people in the UK attracted to more than one gender;
• An understanding of the needs of people and communities in the UK attracted beyond gender;
• Commitment to the aims and objectives of Bi Pride UK;
• Experience of introducing and embedding processes, standards, and evaluating impact in a professional environment;
• Experience of working in collaboration with multiple teams;
• Strong project management, organisational, perseverance and administrative skills;
• Experience of writing accessible reports to express impact findings;
• Ability and willingness to contribute towards writing funding proposals;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Ability to communicate confidently, coherently and sensitively on complex issues of identity, power dynamics and privilege;
• Meticulous attention to detail;
• Strong team player, with the ability to self-motivate when working remotely.

The position is open to anyone over the age of 18. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, especially minority groups such as applicants of colour, trans and non-binary applicants and disabled and/ or neurodivergent applicants. Bi Pride UK is aware of the barriers that can be faced in gaining traditional work experience, particularly for global majority, disabled and/ or neurodivergent and trans people. We will give weight to this and encourage people when applying to consider caring responsibilities, including parenthood, volunteering, and other non-paid experiences and responsibilities when making their application.

Do you love meeting and talking to people? Or perhaps you prefer sorting and organising in the background? If so, why not volunteer in our charity shop in Newcastle Emlyn? It's something of a community hub, an inspiring and happy emporium. It is often the first place people hear about the hospice. If you’re on the shop floor then a large part of the day can be spent talking with and listening to customers. It can also be the first port of call for those with a terminal diagnosis or someone seeking help for a friend or loved one.

Please note: unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for overseas volunteers.

What will I be doing?

• Greeting customers warmly, helping them and sharing information about our hospice.

• Helping create attractive displays.

• Organising and refilling shelves and racks.

• Dusting, vacuuming and tidying.

• Receiving, sorting, pricing, and preparing donated items.

• Processing sales using cash and card payments.

• Helping us advertise special events through conversations, window displays and posters.

• Working together within the retail team to support the smooth running of the shop.

What are the benefits of being a Volunteer Retail Assistant?

• Meet people, enjoy yourself and use your creativity.

• Sense of purpose from supporting a worthwhile cause and helping your local community.

• Being valued as an important part of a friendly team.

• Training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.

• Earning Tempo Time Credits to spend on fun activities both locally and across the UK.

• Travel expenses reimbursed.

What do I need to have?

• Shop floor volunteers need a friendly and approachable manner with excellent communication and people skills.

• Good organising ability

• Reliability and punctuality, with a sense of commitment and teamwork.

• Initiative and an eye for detail.

• Willingness to adapt to different tasks as and when shop priorities change.

• Experience in retail or customer service would be helpful but isn’t essential.

• A permanent UK address or a visa that allows you to stay and volunteer in the UK (unfortunately we cannot sponsor visa applications).

What training and support will I be given?

You will be supported by the Charity Shop Manager and given induction and training to ensure you feel confident and capable in your role. As part of the wider hospice team, you’ll also have the chance to take part in various team wellbeing and development opportunities, plus additional learning.

How do I find out more?

Email us or drop in at one of our Coffee Mornings. These are held between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm on the last Thursday of each month and offer the chance for an informal chat and a look around - while enjoying fresh coffee and homemade cake, free of charge. Come along, we’d love to meet you!

Events Officer has the responisbility of organising (along with the help of a Trustee Events Manager) our magical visits to children/adults with LD, this could be at the hospital, social groups, refugee centres, libraries etc etc.

They will monitor the chapter email for submitted event booking forms (some of these will come from events organised by the Events Manager on Trustees). These will then be added to the calendar and advertised to volunteers. They will ensure each event organised has a handful of volunteers confirmed within a week of the event itself. They will then provide information and support to a Lead Volunteer to run the events. They will ensure that regular events are being attended by volunteers and that they have the costume and materials that are needed for these. They will follow up after events to ensure social media posts are made, hours are uploaded and that costumes are returned. They will ensure that all volunteers are attending events.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 25 January 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 26 January and 6 February 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 17 February 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams)

• 24 February 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams))

• 3 March 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams)

• 24 March 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are reimbursed
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.

Please note you must be over 18 to volunteer with us.

Make a Meaningful Impact - Join the BES Personnel Committee 

Role: Personnel Committee Member 
Organisation: British Ecological Society 
Term: 3 years 
Closing Date: 16 November 2025, 09:00 GMT 
Interview: TBC 

Are you passionate about people, strategy, and shaping the future of a thriving organisation? The British Ecological Society (BES) is inviting expressions of interest for voluntary positions on our Personnel Committee, a dynamic group that plays a vital role in guiding our people strategy and supporting the delivery of our ambitious organisational goals. 

As a registered charity and non-profit organisation, BES is dedicated to advancing ecological science and promoting the importance of ecology in addressing global challenges. We support a vibrant, inclusive community of researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts through funding, events, publications, and policy engagement. While our mission is rooted in ecology, you don’t need a background in the field to contribute, what matters most is the unique skills, perspectives, and experience you bring.

This is a unique opportunity to influence how we nurture, support, and empower our staff, ensuring our internal culture reflects the values and vision of BES. The Committee typically meets 3 times a year, with occasional additional input via email. 

Why Join? 

As a Personnel Committee member, you’ll: 

• Help shape the strategic direction of our staff resource. 

• Influence policies that support a healthy, inclusive, and high-performing workplace. 

• Collaborate with passionate professionals committed to organisational excellence. 

• Gain valuable experience in governance and strategic HR. 

• Make a real difference in how BES supports its people. 

Who We’re Looking For 

We’re seeking individuals with experience or insight in one or more of the following areas: 

• Organisational leadership, management, and strategy 

• Staff policy development 

• Organisational change or conflict management 

• Staff appraisals and performance development 

• Learning and development 

• Health & Safety in relation to HR 

• Embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion in HR practices 

We especially welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups within the ecological community and those with experience across diverse workplaces. We’re committed to forming a committee that reflects the range of experiences and backgrounds within our membership.

Ready to Get Involved? 

To learn more about the Personnel Committee, what the role involves, and how you can contribute, please explore the attached resource.

What are we looking for?

We're looking for enthusiastic, creative, and organised people from Cornwall, to become Community Fundraising Volunteers. With around 90% of our income coming from our amazing supporters, we simply couldn't do what we do without them. That's why our community fundraising volunteers are at the heart of our mission - bringing people together to raise vital funds that help protect children and prevent cruelty and abuse.

What will you be doing?

Volunteering in this role will mean you become a valued member of our local community fundraising team. You will engage with the public, local organisations, and your community, and raise awareness of our vital cause. The role will involve attending events, helping us out with spreading the NSPCC's messages across the area, raising funds and just proudly representing the NSPCC and what we stand for. There is plenty of opportunity to make the role your own and support us in a way that works for you!

How regular is the volunteering?

This role is a flexible, 'as and when' volunteering opportunity with no regular time commitment required! We understand that life comes first, which is why this role can easily fit around you and your schedule. A commitment of a couple of hours a month is all we ask for, but if you would like to do more then we would love that too, and there are always plenty of ways to get involved!

What will you get from the role?

In this role, we'll support you with advice, skills and tools to help you raise funds for and awareness of the NSPCC. You'll learn more about how you're helping to protect children across the UK, and of course you will have the opportunity to grow your skills and confidence within fundraising and charity work. It is also a wonderful opportunity to spend time and connect with like-minded individuals who want to do something positive within their community. 

Who is right for the role?

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Passionate about the NSPCC's mission to protect children and young people
• Enthusiastic and approachable 
• Organised and proactive 
• Quick-thinking and adaptable 
• Team players who enjoy collaborating and working with others 
• Great communicators

Think you could be a good fit? We would love to hear from you!

Volunteering today will allow you to join us in making a difference and fighting for every childhood. 

With this role, we are currently unable to accept applications from under 18's.

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is seeking an experienced and dedicated academic with a strong interest in paediatric palliative care, or related field to join our Research Governance Committee as a Volunteer Academic Member. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the strategic development of research at a research active children’s hospice, to ensure that our research activities meet the highest standards of integrity, ethics and governance. 

You will work with the Committee Chair, the Research Fellow, and other committee members to support research that makes a meaningful difference to children with life-limiting conditions and their families as well as bereaved families, including those where a child died unexpectedly. 

Appointment to the Committee will be subject to confirmation by the Shooting Star Children’s Hospices Trustee Board.

Duties and key responsibilities

· Participate in quarterly meetings: Attend and contribute to online committee meetings held four times per year (papers and slide deck will be prepared by the Chair). 

· Review research proposals: Provide expert review of project proposals, contributing to the assurance of ethical and governance standards. 

· Support research oversight: Help ensure that all research complies with regulatory and ethical requirements and reflects best practices. 

· Contribute academic expertise: Share your knowledge and experience to strengthen the quality and impact of the charity’s research portfolio. 

· Promote collaboration: Encourage partnerships between Shooting Star Children’s Hospices and wider academic, clinical, and research communities. 

· Champion good governance: Actively promote equity, transparency, and excellence in research oversight. 

Essential skills and experience

· Proven experience in academic research, research governance, and research ethics. 

· Strong academic background in higher education, and health or social care research. 

· In-depth understanding of research compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HRA, UKRIO, Caldicott Guidelines, or equivalent). 

· Ability to evaluate research proposals and provide constructive feedback. 

· Excellent communication and collaboration skills. 

· Confidence using virtual meeting platforms and digital collaboration tools. 

Desirable attributes

• Academic research background with a track record of publications in the area of paediatric palliative care or related field.

• Previous experience serving on or chairing a research committee or governance board.

• Commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in research.

Commitment

• Quarterly committee meetings (Approximately 1 hour per meeting).

• Reviewing project proposals (Approximately 1 hour per month).

• Email communication and ad hoc queries (Approximately 1 hour per month).

• 2–3 years in the role would be appreciated for both parties to gain the most out of this experience.

• This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses related to attendance and participation will be reimbursed. 

Help shape a fair, bold solution to the climate crisis. Work with us to turn carbon reduction into real community action.

Our vision is for a world in control of CO2 emissions - a fair social and economic approach that motivates and supports people and organisations to reduce their carbon footprints. 

Our ultimate mission is to persuade people, business and government that together, we can take meaningful action using our Carbon Accounts framework. We are already demonstrating how this would work on the ground in local community action groups. We believe this will inspire governments to introduce the same mechanism to reach science-based emission reduction targets on a national basis. 

What will you be doing?

We are a small, new charity with massive scope to make a difference in shifting the narrative on climate change where other organisations have failed. We are currently almost completely volunteer-led, with the exception of a freelance fundraiser. We would like to build up our trustee board and include trustees who are keen to drive us forward through their active involvement.

Our goal for the next 12 months is:

·    to continue building our local group of activists who watch their carbon and ecological footprints 

·    to create a carbon labelling campaign, a carbon trading group, a carbon footprint and Carbon Accounts app

·    to foster recognition from local businesses and government

·    to create a blueprint which can be adopted in other locations

We want to spread the movement far and wide, to promote public, business, academic and political acceptance of carbon budgets, carbon trading and our Carbon Accounts approach by demonstrating how and why it works, and running communications and fundraising campaigns.

There are many practical activities you could also help with beyond trustee responsibilities, not in any order, for example workshop facilitation, managing volunteers, fundraising, carbon emissions data and spreadsheets, writing or journalism on sustainability, social media, photography or videography.... Skills and experience in any will be helpful.
What are we looking for?

We’re looking for someone to jump right in with our small and dynamic team to provide guidance, energy and insight to help us develop. We’re looking for someone who has some experience with: 

·    charity governance

·    policy creation and management

·    strategy development combining marketing, fundraising, volunteer management and finance & business planning

·    you’ll need an awareness of the serious nature of the crisis and the need for radical action by governments, i.e. a strong desire to see society make an urgent response to climate change

·    ability to work online, in person, in different environments with different types of people

·    consistency and good communication

·    co-operation, exchange of ideas, flexibility

·    ability to put ideas across clearly while seeking first to understand others

·    free on Monday evenings for our in-person meetings (not mandatory)

Duration

Our trustee positions run for 3 years after which the person may seek re-election

Location

We are keen on everyone being local, coming to in-person meetings and leveraging their local knowledge and connections, to keep group dynamics strong and foster motivation and commitment. We cover the London boroughs of Hackney, Islington, Camden, Haringey and Westminster.

Volunteering for Sense

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

What your role will involve

You’ll get the opportunity to get involved in a wide range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do. 

When you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

If you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

Volunteering for Sense

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

What your role will involve

You’ll get the opportunity to get involved in a wide range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do. 

When you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

If you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.