Administrative Officer Volunteer Roles

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

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

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

A bit about this role

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. Our Cat Welfare Team Leaders have the important role of coordinating, encouraging and supporting teams of fosterer volunteers and cat care volunteers. They help make sure volunteers with direct cat care roles are happy and confident and provide advice and guidance when needed. This incredible teamwork means we are able to help more cats and kittens in need.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Volunteering alongside colleagues including the Branch Coordinator, Cat Welfare team, Branch Development Manager and Vet team to ensure that CP cat care policies, procedures and standards are applied in branch
• Support fosterers to follow Cats Protection cat welfare policies and procedures
• Acting as the main point of contact within the branch for cat welfare and ensuring that welfare updates are shared and implemented effectively
• Supporting the branch by ensuring that accurate and up to date records of all cats helped are maintained, using specified Cats Protection systems
• Attending relevant Cats Protection volunteer training sessions and encouraging other volunteers to do likewise
• With the other volunteers, recruit, induct and support all branch fosterers and cat care volunteers using Cats Protection processes
• Represent the branch at relevant meetings
• Play an active part in the branch committee, being part of the branch team leading on cat adoption information and updates
• Collaborating with the Cats Protection Cat Adoption Team Leader to ensure the highest standards of cat care are applied in line with Cats Protection policy and procedures

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by leading and supporting other volunteers in direct cat care roles. You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• A willingness to follow Cats Protection policies and procedures
• Basic knowledge and experience of cat welfare
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to engage with people on all levels, to build strong and effective relationships
• A willingness to develop themselves and others and to update knowledge and skills as necessary
• Good administration and organisational skills
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• The ability to handle sensitive issues with objectivity and pragmatism
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

The time expectation for this role will vary depending on the number of volunteers and cats in care. Our Cat Welfare Team Leaders usually spend between 10 to 12 hours per week in this role which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. 

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

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

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

Background

Thyroid UK is a charitable company working primarily within the United Kingdom. Formed in 1998, we became a company limited by guarantee in 2007 and in 2008 we became a registered charity.

The provision of quality information for people with both diagnosed and undiagnosed thyroid disorders is the primary concern of Thyroid UK, and we work effectively in this field through dialogue with NHS departments, networking with other voluntary organisations, and providing services directly to patients.

We are a small charity, with just three permanent employees, plus contract staff, but we have a wide influence, and provide a great deal of support to our beneficiaries, within the UK and abroad.  The charity’s annual income in 2023 was £96,900.54 with the majority of that income being spent on both running the charity and conducting campaigns and activities to support our beneficiaries. 

The Thyroid UK Board of Trustees is a diverse group of 7 individuals, including the CEO, a Chairperson, Deputy Chair and this Treasurer role.

Role

We are looking to fill the position of treasurer for our Board of Trustees. Working with the CEO and Finance Manager, this role monitors the financial administration of the charity and reports to the Board of Trustees on its state of financial health, in line with best practice and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements, to provide the board with the confidence and knowledge to better make operational and strategic decisions. 

The ideal candidate will have experience of finance or finance management, preferably including some experience in a small company or charity.

Time requirement

The role will require a time commitment of an average of 1 to 2 days per month, with more time required in some months than others. This includes three planned board meetings of approximately 3 hours (two held online and one held in London with the option to join remotely, if needed) and the Thyroid UK AGM. 

The Treasurer should be available to support the CEO, Chair and fellow trustees between board meetings, including taking responsibility to deal with issues which may arise, and have one-to-one meetings with the CEO and Finance Manager before board meetings. 

Term of office

The Treasurer’s term is two years, following which the trustees may re-elect the position for a further one or two term(s).

Remuneration

Thyroid UK is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation.  Trustee roles are not remunerated.  However, reasonable expenses for travel can be paid for those not living in London. 

Key Responsibilities 

· Liaise with CEO and Trustees to ensure the financial viability of the organisation’s strategy, advising on the financial implications of Thyroid UK’s strategic plan

· Present Thyroid UK’s financial position and broader context at Trustee meetings, and oversee the production of an annual budget.

· Ensure that the Board of Trustees is aware of its financial duties and responsibilities and the need to comply with all legislation, and take a lead in interpreting financial data to fellow board members.

· Provide oversight and guidance where necessary of accounts prepared for funders and relevant statutory bodies.

· Oversee the appointment of an independent examiner of the accounts and review the appointment on a regular basis.

· Act as counter signatory on charity cheques and some applications to funders, approve payments on banking systems, and spending approval in accordance with financial management processes.

· Work in partnership with the CEO/Finance Manager in executing their responsibilities and achieving their financial goals.

· Ensure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external financial advisors are reviewed on a regular basis.

Person Specification

In addition to fulfilling the experiences, skills and attributes of a trustee, a treasurer must also have:

1. Knowledge and experience of accounting and audit practices in the UK as they apply to companies and charities

2. Be able to interrogate and interpret financial statements

3. Communicate financial information in a meaningful and understandable way to the Board

4. Strong working knowledge of any accounting software

5. Strong attention to detail

Submit your interest by sending us the completed application form, your CV and a short cover letter.

About the Role

The Bridge Project is a well-established Bradford based charity with over 35 years’ experience delivering services and projects addressing a range of issues such as substance misuse, risk taking behaviours, relationships, housing, physical/mental health, and employment. We work with individuals, families, partners, and communities to improve people’s lives in a sustainable way, empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

We currently employ over 120 staff, 40% of whom are ‘experts by experience’ and have joined us through our volunteering programme.  We are recognised as being innovative and recovery focused, and our services have been highlighted nationally  as examples of best practice in the sector. Our portfolio of services and projects are constantly evolving in response to the changing needs of our service users and our local communities. Currently this includes recovery focussed drug treatment services, housing and resettlement support, access to education, training, and employment (ETE), volunteering programmes, support for people engaged with criminal justice services and befriending/mentoring services for people with significant barriers to recovery and community reengagement.

What will you be doing?

Our Trustees play a pivotal role in governing the Bridge Project.  They are responsible for setting our strategic vision and priorities, ensuring our financial sustainability, and providing guidance and oversight to our operations. Our Board is committed to excellence, and we are looking for new individuals to bring fresh knowledge and experience to join us in this important work.  We’re committed to creating a Board which is representative of the communities we support, bringing together those with a variety of skills and experiences, to help shape what we do and how we work.  We’re particularly keen to hear from candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds and from woman, however, we would be pleased to hear from you if you feel you can add value to our Board and would like to help us to make a positive contribution.  This is a rewarding role and you do not need to have experience of been a Trustee before, as there will be a comprehensive induction.

As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to bring commitment, energy and enthusiasm to the role with a passion for doing your best.  You will work alongside other talented Trustees, engage with our staff and stakeholders, and contribute to our collective mission of empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that the Bridge Project achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that the charity has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the senior leadership team to enable The Bridge Project to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Time Commitment

We ask that you are able to devote time to attend 4 Trustee Board meetings per year, 4 Sub-Committee meetings per year and 1 Planning meeting.  These are a mixture of in-person meetings in Bradford and zoom meetings.  Meetings are currently held in the evening.  Trustees are also encouraged to visit our premises to meet with the staff team and meet the people we support.

What Difference will you make?

You will be joining a friendly, highly engaged, and passionate group of likeminded Trustees who are keen to deepen the impact of the Bridge Project in local communities.  As a Trustee, you will have a real opportunity to offer your unique skill set to help the strategic direction of the charity and directly contribute to these objectives.

You will collectively be responsible for ensuring that the Chief Officer and his team not only grow our services to meet everyone that needs them, but that the service we provide is of the highest quality.  Last year we provided treatment and support to 4,900 individuals.

You will also have an opportunity to expand your knowledge of the voluntary and community sector and give something back to the local community as well as developing new skills.

In late 2023, the Cathedral adopted a new governance structure under the Cathedrals Measure 2021 and became a registered charity in March 2024.  All members of Chapter are now charity trustees.

We are looking for new trustees, including a Senior Non-Executive Member (SNEM) who are willing to build on the commitment, enthusiasm and energy of current members who are nearing the end of their terms of office and continue to broaden the diversity of thinking in Chapter.

While we are not looking for any specific skill set, successful candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have the experience and skills necessary for working at board level. 

The SNEM is appointed by the Bishop following advice from the Nominations Committee and the successful candidate for this role will have experience of chairing board or similar level meetings..

As a non-executive trustee, your role will be vital  in the oversight of the management and administration of the Cathedral and in ensuring that the Vision and Strategy formed in 2020 is being effectively delivered and developed as we head towards our Centenary in 2027.  Working collaboratively with other trustees you will give strategic direction to the Cathedral, set overall policy, define goals and evaluate outcomes.

Portsmouth Cathedral, the Cathedral of the Sea, has been the seat of the Bishop of Portsmouth since the creation of the Diocese of Portsmouth in 1927.  It has a distinctive history and role in a great maritime city, and serves a diverse diocese that stretches from the Isle of Wight to East Hampshire.

The successful candidates will be either a communicant member of the Church of England, or of a church with which it is in communion and an enhanced DBS check will be required.  A full induction programme and ongoing training in offered to enable members to deliver their responsibilities. 

We are committed to growing in diversity and inclusion and seek to reflect this in Chapter. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. Portsmouth Cathedral is a member of Inclusive Church.

This role contains an Occupational Requirement, in line with the Equalities Act 2010, that the candidate will be a practising Christian.

Expressions of interest are invited before 22 April 2024.

All Nations Christian College is world renowned for effective cross-cultural training for Christian missional life and work, both locally and globally.

We are looking for a qualified lecturer to take overall responsibility for all aspects of our 10-week missions training En Route course at the Easneye site, teach on all other programmes offered by All Nations Christian College according to their area of expertise, and provide support and pastoral care to students. The successful candidate will have recent, extensive and relevant experience in cross-cultural mission and teaching experience in an academic context, together with pastoral skills.

This role is for a Tutor to be a residential volunteer on site (accommodation and meals are provided free of charge); or the role can suit a local volunteer who travels on site (travel expenses covered).

In the nature of the role, it is a genuine requirement that the post holder is a committed Christian and fully supports the objectives of the college.

Working conditions

Located: Easneye, Ware, Hertfordshire

Hours of work: full time / part time

(In order to apply, please send a completed application form and updated CV. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis)

All Nations Christian College is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children from abuse and neglect. We expect all staff who work with us to share this commitment.

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

We are looking for a Chair with knowledge of UK midwifery care and maternity provision with charity governance, leadership skills and experience to help us grow and keep increasing our impact.

Help midwives and student midwives make a difference to the care of babies, mothers and birthing people. 

The main responsibilities of the Chair of Trustees are to:

• Coordinate the activities of the Iolanthe Midwifery Trust and its trustees
• Take the lead on ensuring that the trustees comply with their duties
• Ensure the charity is well governed, according to the requirements of the Charity Commission
• Oversee the awards process and host the Awards Ceremony
• Oversee the financial affairs of the Trust, working with the Financial Trustee, the Executive Director and the auditors

You will be supported by an Executive Director (part-time), Administrator (part-time).

As a UK-wide organisation the work of the Chair will be largely home-based (including video conferencing), but face-to-face meetings and liaison with other organisations may be required at times.

The Iolanthe Midwifery Trust welcomes candidates from a diverse background and from historically excluded communities. We recognise that candidates may have disabilities and health challenges, both visible and invisible.  We are happy to make any reasonable adjustments at any stage in the process

We have a comprehensive trustee induction process in place to support you in your new role.

Knowledge and experience of UK midwifery care and maternity provision will be of great advantage to the role.

All Nations Christian College has a long history of successfully equipping men and women whose sights are firmly set on a future in mission work. In 2021 we celebrated 50 years of training for these remarkable individuals. We believe our work to be vital – preparing people for mission requires training for ‘the whole person’. And central to our ability to deliver high standards of education and growth for our students is a highly skilled, diverse and engaged team, ready to serve and make a difference. Could that be you?

We are looking for a qualified and experienced tutor to take overall responsibility for pastoral care within the College, and to contribute to the teaching of select modules in the candidate’s area of expertise.

This role is for a Tutor to be a residential volunteer on site (accommodation and meals are provided free of charge); or the role could suit a volunteer who lives locally and travels on site (travel expenses covered).

In the nature of the role, it is a genuine requirement that the post holder is a committed Christian and fully supports the objectives of the college.

Working conditions

Residential volunteer, or local volunteer

Located: Easneye, Ware, Hertfordshire

Hours of work: full time / part time (flexible)

Start: 2nd September 2024

All Nations Christian College is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk, from abuse and neglect. We expect all staff who work with us to share this commitment. Staff may be required to be checked with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS)

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that we achieve our core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that we have a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.

We’re part of a network of independent charities that offers confidential advice online, over the phone, and in person, for free. When we say we’re for everyone, we mean it. People rely on us because we’re independent and totally impartial. We can give advice on a wide range of subjects such as benefits, Universal Credit, debt, employment, housing, legal issues, immigration and much more.

​We are seeking someone who is ambitious, forward-thinking and has effective communication skills.

We particularly want to recruit more women, young people and candidates from ethnic communities to increase the diversity across the board. We are looking to recruit people with skills and experience in the following:

● Human resources/Employment

● Business development/Strategy

● Income generation

● Law/legal

The ideal person will bring innovative ideas, enthusiasm and excellent judgement to help lead the organisation. Understanding of, and empathy with, the types of issues faced by our clients is also important.

What’s in it for you?

Working for a well respected charity that makes a real difference to people’s lives.

Decisions made by the board set the direction of our charitable activities and have a major influence on the success of our work so that local people are able to take decisions that directly affect their lives. The role provides a unique insight into the issues facing our local communities and being a part of improving local people’s lives is very rewarding.

You will have the opportunity to develop your skills, and utilise any expertise and knowledge to benefit the local community.

This is an unpaid role but all reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

What difference will you make?

The trustees are collectively responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of Citizens Advice Staffordshire South West and for developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with governing documents and legal and regulatory guidelines and your energy and ideas will drive the organisation forward.

If you have the personal qualities and enthusiasm to drive change and you embody our inventive, responsible and generous values, we would love to hear from you.

Voluntary role
Responsible to: Chair of Trustees
Base: the Board works remotely 

Main Responsibilities and Duties

• Ensure that SEED and its representatives function within all legal and regulatory frameworks continually striving for best practice in governance.

· Comply with SEED’s Code of Conduct and policies, providing leadership on its value base and organisational behaviour, including safeguarding, human resources and financial management.

· Work alongside fellow Trustees and the Senior Management Team in developing SEED’s strategic direction, promoting and developing this through good governance and clear strategic planning. To evaluate progress made towards achieving the strategic objectives.

• Ensure that SEED operates within its Charitable Objectives and organisational strategy in order that its work remains focussed and makes the greatest impact to those it serves.

• Actively contribute to the development of SEED’s business plan, monitoring and evaluating performance against agreed objectives.

• Prepare for and participate fully in board meetings reviewing all reports coming to these meetings.

• To undertake training when required.

• Use any specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach quick and sound decisions and participate in sub-committees.

· Support the recruitment of senior staff and offer on-going support and monitoring of their work.

· Assist in the recruitment, on-boarding and support of new Trustees when required.

· Act reasonably in decision making and leadership of the organisation and manage risks with a considered, proportionate and balanced approach.

· Maintain sound financial management of SEED’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the organisations’ objects and that assets are protected and managed to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds.

· Act as a counter-signatory on charity cheques and any applications for funds.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of SEED including having appropriate policies and procedures in place. These policies and procedures are reviewed and signed off by the Trustee Board.

· Ensure that SEED has robust safeguarding policy and procedures in place and that safeguarding is embedded across the organisation

· Safeguard the good name and reputation of SEED, acting in the best interest of the charity, staff and beneficiaries at all times.

· Promote the work of SEED externally seeking opportunities that might further the work and visibility of the Charity.

·  Support the Managing Director in leading the Charity, providing advice and practical help and participating in their annual evaluation.

· Maintain absolute confidentiality about all sensitive or confidential information received through carrying out the duties of a Trustee.

· Remain open and accessible to SEED’s staff through occasional communication and site visits.

Accountability:

As a Trustee you are responsible and liable for the governance and functioning of the charity and are accountable in varying degrees to a variety of stakeholders including: service users, members, funders, the Charity Commission, and Companies House.

SEED Trustees should uphold the fiduciary duty required of all charity trustees to act in the best interests of both current and future beneficiaries of the charity, being held personally liable for any breach of that duty.

Support regarding this is given by fellow Trustees, the Managing Director and the Senior Management team.

Required skills & experience:

The successful applicant will:

• Demonstrate a passion for and sound knowledge of development and/or conservation issues facing least developed countries such as Madagascar.

• Demonstrate sound knowledge and keen interest in at least one of SEED’s core areas (community health; sustainable livelihoods; environmental conservation) or in a key functional area (management, finance, marketing).

• Have a reasonable level of understanding of legal, financial, audit and other regulatory requirements of a charity, ideally through experience as a trustee.

• Show commitment to SEED and have sufficient time and willingness to contribute effectively to board proceedings and sub committee work.

• Be able to make quick and sound decisions based on an analysis of information presented to them.

• Have the confidence to both advocate for or challenge ideas and can remain independent of any influence from other organisations or individuals.

• Be able to work effectively as a member of a team and independently.

• Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to SEED’s Code of Conduct and values and be a good ambassador for the organisation at all times.

• Demonstrate the ability, social skills and confidence to give clear guidance and support to other Trustees or members of staff in respect of the philosophy and procedures of SEED in order to protect the reputation of the NGO.

• Be able to work to and advocate for all of SEED’s policies and procedures, working within SEED’s Code of Conduct, safeguarding those that SEED works with and reporting any concerns appropriately.

• Have empathy with those living and working in a developing country with the ability and desire to work with teams from different economic and cultural backgrounds.

• Have excellent listening and verbal communication skills and a flexible and patient attitude.

The Association for Palliative Medicine of Great Britain and Ireland (APM) is one of the world's largest representative bodies of medical/healthcare professionals practicing or interested in palliative care, with a growing membership of over 1,400. Most members are doctors, and supporting them is the core focus of the APM. APM members support patients with life threatening illnesses to live and die as well as possible. It is the APM's mission to promote, facilitate, advance and develop excellence for the benefit of every individual patient and those important to them. As part of a wider governance review, the APM is making some exciting changes to it's organisational structures. The current Board will become the APM Council with a focus on professional matters and the creation of a new Board of Trustees will oversee the administration of the APM as a professional membership body and hold elected Officers to account.

About the APM:

The APM is a registered charity, and so it has a Board of Trustees acting as its governing body. The Board of Trustees is responsible for agreeing the APM business plan and monitoring the progress of APM affairs. Trustees also act as the custodians of the APM, ensuring effective management and administration and are registered as APM Directors with Companies House.

About the Lay Chair Role:

As the inaugural Lay Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will have the opportunity to work very closely the APM Officers and Council to help shape the role. You will note that a medical background is not a pre-requisite of the role. In leading the Board of Trustees you will have ultimate oversight of the affairs of the charity, and responsibility for ensuring it is solvent, well-run, and delivering on its charitable objective.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties as guardians of the APM.
• Ensure the APM governance structure effectively supports its activity, size and complexity.
• Chair Board meetings, fostering a culture of inclusiveness, transparency and collaboration.
• Supporting other trustees to fulfil their Board of Trustee responsibilities.
• Fulfil trustee duties to ensure sound financial health of the charity, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability.
• In collaboration with the APM President, lead on defining of goals in strategic planning to forward the APM's charitable objectives.

Time commitment

The APM Board of Trustees will normally hold four meetings per year (likely to be a mixture of in-person and hybrid meetings). In addition, the Chair of Trustees will be expected to work closely with the APM Officers and Chief Operating Officer. On average, it is estimated that the time commitment will equate to one day per month, spread irregularly over a 12-month period. Trustees will serve a three-year term. Individual tenure may be extended by up to a maximum of a further three-year term to ensure orderly succession planning, subject to the agreement of the membership.

How to Apply:

We warmly welcome applications for this Lay Chair position, so please send your CV to Senior Appontments at Charity People and request for the candidate pack to be sent over

Timeline:
Closing date for applications: Monday 20th May

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities with which we work.

Are you passionate about mental health and want to work with an organisation committed to helping people recover? Do you want to make a difference? The Company Secretary will perform a key role for our well-established team of Trustees. Candidates for this voluntary position as well having relevant eperience should demonstrate an interest in mental health and have the ability to attend in-person meetings in Hertfordshire alongside some work from home.

THE ROLE

Administration and compliance 

The Company Secretary (CS) of a charity, together with all other charity trustees are responsible for the proper conduct of a charity, particularly with regard to ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements. The role of the CS includes:

• Being familiar with the charity’s governing document, and the legal responsibilities of charities under the Charities Act 2006 and the Companies Act.
• To keep all trustees informed of key matters in relation to its legal responsibilities and to signpost trustees to training courses and content to maintain sufficient knowledge
• To support the induction of new trustees and patrons
• Maintaining statutory registers including the register of members, the register of trustees/ directors and secretaries, the register of trustees’ and secretary’s interests.
• Ensure relevant statutory returns and information are filed with the Charity Commission and Companies House e.g. annual reports, changes to the charity’s details and/or trustees’ details etc.
• Identify and implement best practice, ensuring that the Board of Trustees are aware of the requirements to comply with relevant codes such as the Charities Governance Code and Code of Conduct
• Ensuring that decisions and actions of Board meetings are accurately recorded, communicated and implemented.
• Together with members of the Governance and IT Board committee, tracking progress with the charity’s risk register, business plan and strategic plan.
• Working with the Chair and CEO to ensure the AGM is properly administered in line with relevant legislation.
• Willing to become a member of the Governance and IT Committee.
• To comply with the trustee pledges as varied from time to time which sets out the broad consistent level of commitments across all trustees.

Preparing for board meetings

The Secretary should assist the Chair of the Board with the planning and administration of Board meetings. This includes:

• To plan and prepare the board meetings and the AGM with others as appropriate – plan meeting dates, book room, send out notifications, minutes and other papers,
• Making sure the timetable of Board meetings for the year ahead is agreed.
• Sending out notification of Board meetings to Trustees (and others where applicable).
• Work with the Chair and CEO to set each board meeting agenda, including the management of any agenda items received from other Trustees.
• Circulation of Board papers / pack at least 4 days in advance of meetings.
• Checking that a quorum is present (and that it is present throughout the meeting if required).

Taking meeting minutes and recording actions or ensure that a minute taker is appointed

The role of the Secretary includes:

• Taking minutes at Board meetings and maintaining the records of all meeting minutes.
• Recording and keeping action tracker up to date
• Keeping a record of all issues discussion, decisions taken and any actions required to implement a decision.
• Working closely with the Chair to ensure that minutes are accurate.
• Issuing minutes and action tracker to Trustees after Board meeting.

Skills and experience

• Experience of working with boards or senior committees
• Knowledge of relevant legislation including the Charity Governance Code, Companies Act 2006 and the Charities Act 2006.
• Strong communication skills including ability to present complex matters in an engaging and understandable way
• Ability to work as part of a team and recognise broad responsibilities of a trustee role beyond technical knowledge
• Minute-taking 

Person specification

• Proven record in working inclusively and collaboratively
• Effective planner
• Forward-looking
• Diligent

Could you coordinate local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background, just basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with people and good written and spoken English. If so, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Secretary?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a secretary to organise day-to-day activities. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people. As the first point of contact for SSAFA in the area you will play a crucial part in promoting SSAFA locally, organising local events and ensuring the smooth running of SSAFA across the divisions in your branch.

Why do we need you?

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

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

In recognition of our clients’ service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can match clients to volunteers and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

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

This role is about coordination and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment each week. You would also need to organise and attend a number of regular meetings each year.

What would you be doing?

• Managing the branch office (if applicable) and providing support to all volunteers, especially new ones
• Work with the branch Chairperson, treasurer, and others to ensure smooth running of the branch.
• Accepting referrals and coordinating SSAFA caseworkers, visitors, and helpers accordingly
• Oversee all SSAFA casework across the branch ensuring clients get support that is effective and timely.
• Monitor volunteer numbers against the demand for support and recruit new volunteers as needed
• Working with the local training officer to ensure all volunteers are kept up to date with the training and information they need.
• Build relationships with regional and central office staff to ensure an effective flow of information.
• Maintaining accurate records of volunteers and cases, submit accurate data to Central Office
• Providing administration for an annual programme of meetings including an AGM, recording, and implementing decisions
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

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

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers, volunteer management – case management and quality. This training would take approx. 4 days.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your training up to date.
• Support from the Chair of the branch
• Access to the Welfare Team and Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to coordinate a team of people volunteering.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to reporting any safety concerns etc
• Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.

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

Minimum Age: 18

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

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

Is a criminal record check required? No

Could you coordinate local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background, just basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with people and good written and spoken English. If so, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Secretary?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a secretary to organise day-to-day activities. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people. As the first point of contact for SSAFA in the area you will play a crucial part in promoting SSAFA locally, organising local events and ensuring the smooth running of SSAFA across the divisions in your branch.

Why do we need you?

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

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

In recognition of our clients’ service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can match clients to volunteers and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

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

This role is about coordination and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment each week. You would also need to organise and attend a number of regular meetings each year.

What would you be doing?

• Managing the branch office (if applicable) and providing support to all volunteers, especially new ones
• Work with the branch Chairperson, treasurer, and others to ensure smooth running of the branch.
• Accepting referrals and coordinating SSAFA caseworkers, visitors, and helpers accordingly
• Oversee all SSAFA casework across the branch ensuring clients get support that is effective and timely.
• Monitor volunteer numbers against the demand for support and recruit new volunteers as needed
• Working with the local training officer to ensure all volunteers are kept up to date with the training and information they need.
• Build relationships with regional and central office staff to ensure an effective flow of information.
• Maintaining accurate records of volunteers and cases, submit accurate data to Central Office
• Providing administration for an annual programme of meetings including an AGM, recording, and implementing decisions
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

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

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers, volunteer management – case management and quality. This training would take approx. 4 days.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your training up to date.
• Support from the Chair of the branch
• Access to the Welfare Team and Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to coordinate a team of people volunteering.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to reporting any safety concerns etc
• Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.

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

Minimum Age: 18

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

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

Is a criminal record check required? No

Community Action Malvern & District is a registered charity that has been serving the Malvern area since 1972 and we aim to combat social isolation by connecting people through transport and other community projects delivered by volunteers. We currently have 10 staff, over 100 volunteers,  a Men’s Shed, a volunteer recruitment project, and a small fleet of accessible minibuses and wheelchair vehicles.

“Serving as a trustee can be immensely rewarding…I guess I help because I can” CH, current trustee

We are looking for at least two new Trustees to play an essential role in ensuring that the charity fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries,  delivers on our core purpose, supports our strategic development and identifies service innovations.

“Being a charity trustee allows you to use some of the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired to bring fresh ideas and perspective to the charity” MA, current trustee

We welcome people from diverse backgrounds and careers; our only requirement is that you have basic skills in financial management, business planning and IT, and want to work as part of a team. Anyone with greater financial or legal skills, or an interest in becoming our Treasurer would be particularly welcome.

“For anyone still working, or perhaps considering a slower pace of life following retirement, trusteeship is intellectually stimulating, providing exposure to the fascinating legal, ethical, and financial aspects of running a charity." RH, current trustee