Advice volunteer roles in fulham, greater london

Amazing, giving, and inspiring are a few words we would use to describe our volunteers.

Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.

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 aim of the Befriending Service is 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 in order to meet the needs of the service users

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. 

Trustees at Bromley Experts by Experience play a vital role, collaborating with the Chair, fellow Trustees and the Senior Management Team to set a clear and strong strategic direction for the organisation. You will ensure that Bromley Experts by Experience is delivering against its charitable objectives and working in line with our governing documents. You will also support Bromley Experts by Experience to grow and develop as an organisation by combining your lived experience and professional expertise in a specific field, enabling us to become more impactful and effective.

As a trustee, you are also responsible for ensuring that Bromley Experts by Experience uses its resources effectively and efficiently to deliver its charitable purposes and continue to provide benefit to our members, beneficiaries and local Deaf and Disabled people.

Areas of expertise we are prioritising

We are especially seeking trustees with expertise in one or more of these areas:

• Fundraising Strategy:
  • Supporting X by X Bromley to sustain, maximise and diversify income streams and fundraising activity.
  • Supporting the development of a Fundraising Policy and Plan of Action.
  • Building and maintaining relationships with funders and commissioners.
• Human Resources:
  • Supporting the Deputy CEO and ensuring that X by X Bromley complies with relevant employment laws and regulations.
  • Advising on good practice in staffing and HR matters.
  • Supporting the development, and review of, HR policies and procedures.
• Legal and Policy:
  • Guiding on relevant legal and policy matters, including contracts and governance.
• Organisational Strategy:
  • Supporting Senior Management Team to shape our strategic direction and plan for implementation.
• Secondary and Further Education:
  • Supporting X by X Bromley with advice for a brand-new stream of youth work in education settings.

IMPORTANT: As a Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisation, our governing articles require that our staff, trustees and volunteers bring with them lived experience of disability (self-identified or otherwise). See how we define this below.

Responsibilities of Trustees:

• Ensure that Bromley Experts by Experience operates in accordance with its governing documents and the law
• Set a clear and strong strategic direction for the organisation
• Ensure that Bromley Experts by Experience uses its resources (financial and otherwise) effectively and efficiently to deliver its charitable purposes
• Manage risks responsibly, avoiding exposing Bromley Experts by Experience to unnecessary risk and taking appropriate steps to mitigate risks
• Make decisions about Bromley Experts by Experience’s policies and strategies
• Be an ambassador for Bromley Experts by Experience, promoting our work and values

What we ask of you:

• Trustee Board Members should expect to serve for a minimum of 12 months.
• Trustee Board Members are required to attend scheduled meetings with some ad hoc meetings where necessary.
• It is anticipated that the time commitment will be an approximate average 1.5 hours per week. This will mainly comprise of:
  • Board meeting attendance (plus preparation and minutes) every 8 weeks.
  • AGM attendance (plus preparation and minutes)
  • Supporting our annual Disability Pride event.
  • Occasional scheduled meetings with senior staff and/or Chair.
• As we are a very small charity, there could be occasions when extra time will be required (e.g. during the planning of new projects or dealing with any particular difficulties that arise), or where additional support would be appreciated (e.g. attending events, meeting members at project days)

Key Skills and Qualities:

• Lived Experience of disability (can be self-identified)
• A belief that Disabled people can and should be actively welcomed and included in our communities. An understanding that it is barriers in society that make that harder. This is called the Social Model of Disability.
• Strong organisational skills.
• Experience of how Trustee Boards operate and of effective charity governance
• Accuracy and efficiency with an eye for detail.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills, communicating in a way that is accessible to you.
• Possess and demonstrate integrity, objectivity, accountability, and honesty.
• An effective team worker, contributing an independent perspective.
• Understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship and the financial aspects of running a charity.
• A genuine interest in local communities and people.
• Commitment to Bromley Experts by Experience’s aims, objectives and values.

You must be legally eligible to stand as a registered Company Director and Charity Trustee. Having had previous experience as a trustee of a voluntary organisation is an advantage.

We require a DBS Check to be completed for all Trustees.

We are especially seeking trustees with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising Strategy
• Human Resources
• Legal and Policy
• Organisational Strategy
• Secondary and Further Education

What we mean by lived experience of disability:

As we follow the Social Model of Disability, our definition of Disabled person includes anyone who is being discriminated against or disabled by barriers in society, including:

• People with physical impairment
• People with visual impairment
• Deaf people
• People with hearing impairment
• People who are neurodivergent
• People with learning difficulties/disabilities
• People who experience mental health conditions/mental distress
• People with long-term health conditions

We recognise that a lot of these impairments are invisible and many people have more than one impairment.

Amazing, giving, and inspiring are a few of the words we would use to describe our volunteers.

Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.

About the role

We are looking for Volunteer Advocates to support our Advocacy Service in the Boroughs of Wandsworth and Richmond. You will be based at home, but this role could also involve some travel within the Wandsworth and Richmond boroughs. 

Ideally, you will be able to commit a minimum of 7 hours per week to volunteering. You will be able to confirm your availability on your application, and this will be discussed with you during your discussion with the volunteer manager.

You will receive training and regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role. You can read more about the benefits of volunteering in the full advert on our website.

About the service

Wandsworth & Richmond Advocacy Services offers a range of statutory and non-statutory advocacy services. As a volunteer, you will be supporting our delivery of community advocacy for people who are 18+ and live in Wandsworth & Richmond Boroughs. You will be supporting a range of people, including those with learning, physical, and sensory disabilities as well as mental illness, who need support with a health and social care issue and are not eligible for a statutory service. We do not support people with everyday decisions, but when important decisions are being made that could affect their quality of life, independence, or have long-term consequences.

What you will be doing as a Volunteer Advocate

• You will hold a small caseload supporting people to do a range of issues
• You will offer support on a short-term basis and focus on a specific issue. 
• You will support people by enabling them to find information, understand their rights and choices, have a voice, and make their own informed decisions. 
• You may be supporting people in making difficult or important decisions that may impact their quality of life and independence, and have long-term consequences.
• You will provide peer advocacy and help with the delivery of self-advocacy workshops.

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• You will have good communication skills
• You will possess the ability to empathise
• You will have the motivation to secure the rights of people from all backgrounds
• You will have knowledge of, or experience of working within, health and social care
• You will have a good knowledge of IT skills for recording information and using email
• You will be flexible and able to volunteer during the working week

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.

Offer your time. Share a pot of tea/coffee. Be there when it matters most.

Marie Curie is looking for compassionate, everyday people to join our Companion Team within the surrounding areas of: East Surrey - Reigate, Caterham, Tandridge, Merstham

What will you actually do?

• Visit and connect with someone through shared stories, hobbies, or simple conversation.
• Offer emotional support to patients, families, and carers.
• Help signpost helpful local services and resources.

You’d be a great fit if you:

• Are patient, friendly, and non-judgmental.
• Can commit to 3 hours per week.
• Are comfortable using email and completing short reports.

What You’ll Gain:

• A real sense of purpose and connection.
• Full training, support, and a welcoming volunteer community.
• Recognition for your time and reimbursement of expenses.

Whether you’re looking to give back, build experience, or just connect with others in a more meaningful way - this is an opportunity to do something truly rewarding.

Ready to Find Out More?

Fill out our application form and we'll guide you through the next steps

Helping young people to reach their personal best

“SportsAid believed in me when I was just a young, inexperienced racer. As a self-funded teenager travelling the world with my Mum, financial challenges were a constant hurdle. Funding my passion was daunting until SportsAid alleviated that burden, enabling me to pursue what I loved and take my passion to the next level. Without SportsAid, I would never have gone from the little girl you invested in, to the Paralympic and World medallist I became.”

Millie Knight, Paralympic medallist & World Champion

 COULD YOU HELP SPORTSAID AS THE CHAIR OF TRUSTEES?

SportsAid’s Mission is to encourage, enable and empower the next generation of athletes to achieve their ambitions in sport and life. Since 1976, we have been side-by-side with Britain’s greatest emerging sporting talent – from Mo Farah to Jessica Ennis-Hill, from Ade Adepitan to Ellie Simmonds – and so many others. SportsAid provides vital support to young sports people at a pivotal moment in their development.  HRH The Princess of Wales is the charity’s Patron.

We are looking for a trustee to join our board as Chair of Trustees. With our five-year fundraising strategy underway, this is an exciting time to join as we develop new, impactful partnerships to deliver our mission for young sports people towards and beyond SportsAid’s 50th anniversary in 2026. 

As the Chair of Trustees you will lead and support an effective, diverse and committed Board.  The Chair will provide inclusive leadership to deliver the charity’s vision and mission, ensuring that each trustee enjoys fulfilling their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. The Chair will also support the Chief Executive to ensure that the Board functions to best effect in supporting the executive team to achieve its objectives. He or she will act as an ambassador and be a public face of the charity in partnership with the Chief Executive.

You will have significant Board experience, ideally at Chair or other senior level, in the public, private or voluntary sector; or substantial Board experience as a member of a National Governing Body of Sport or Charitable Trust.  You will be familiar with partnership working and engaging with a complex stakeholder mix.  You will have strong financial and commercial acumen and a genuine passion and personal connection to the core purpose and mission of SportsAid.

This is a vital role offering the opportunity to join a committed and driven charity at an exciting time.  You do not need to be a sports expert, but you will have a desire to help young people and a willingness to get stuck in.  You can make a difference.

You will join a board of eight trustees in working with an effective executive team to support the charity’s work. 

The minimum commitment as a board member will be to attend four board meetings per year (typically held in London but with the facility to join remotely if necessary) plus two half-day induction sessions and at least one half-day strategy planning session.  There will likely be an additional time commitment to attend events representing SportsAid. Board positions are unremunerated but reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

SportsAid recognises that certain sections of the community have been affected by structural inequities and may be denied the opportunity to participate equally and fully in sport at all levels. SportsAid as an organisation believes our role is to remove the barriers that our most under-served, at risk and minoritised groups of young people experience when trying to access sport and physical activities.

SportsAid therefore positively welcomes, and seeks to achieve, diversity in our workforce and that all job applicants, volunteers and employees receive equal and fair treatment.  We positively encourage applications from all candidates regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, disability, marriage and civil partnership status, gender identity, background, religion, faith, sexual orientation, maternity status, pregnancy, belief or nationality.

A role description is available on request.

Please apply by emailing your CV with an outline of how your skills and experience meet the specification of this Chair of Trustees role and why you are interested in joining SportsAid by 5pm Friday 5 September 2025.  

On receipt of your application you will be sent a confidential equal opportunities form which all applicants will be asked to complete. 

The Finance Trustee will engage in all aspects of our governance, with a particular focus on financial strategy and governance.They will use their sound financial skills & experience to support the Board’s understanding & interpretation & to ensure legislative compliance.  

• To support the Board to oversee & to ensure appropriate presentation of budgets, accounts, management accounts and financial statements.
• To ensure appropriate presentation of accounts and records, ensuring that financial resources are spent in accordance with the charity’s policies, good governance, legal & regulatory requirements.
• Liaising, where applicable, with the Chair/ other appropriate members of staff and supporting on financial matters
• Supporting the Board to monitor the financial viability of the charity.
• Creating, in conjunction with relevant trustees and staff, sound financial processes and procedures for the control of the charity’s assets.
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan.
• Reviewing the annual accounts and, where applicable, liaising with the charity’s external auditor to ensure the accounts are compliant with the current charities’ SORP.
• Ensuring that sound financial management is maintained and ensuring expenditure is in line with the charity’s objects.

The Diana Award are thrilled to invite you to volunteer for our Mentoring Programme this Autumn 2025, which operate across London. 

We collaborate with volunteer mentors to support young people aged 14-18 who are at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) through mentoring interventions, career skills development programmes, and support with their youth-led social action projects. 

WHO CAN VOLUNTEER AS A MENTOR? 

We welcome applicants of all industries and levels of experience. Through mentoring you will gain skills in communication and leadership, building empathy and understanding of issues and barriers facing young people in their communities. 

OUR MENTORING PROGRAMMES  

We will be running our exciting Twelve-week Mentoring Programme from October 2025 - February 2026, across London, in the boroughs of Enfield, Tower Hamlets and Sutton. 

The programme will involve: 

• Twelve weeks of in-person weekly mentoring sessions that last one hour (excluding travel) and are delivered on the same day and time each week. 

• Group mentoring, where a group of volunteer mentors work together to support a group of mentees, with the help of a Diana Award Facilitator. 

• Volunteer mentors will share advice and guidance with young people who are at risk of becoming NEET.

We will train you to mentor and provide ongoing support for the duration of your programme. 

The Diana Award can provide you with a professional reference, paid for DBS check, and refund your travel expenses in exchange for your voluntary work. 

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

Requirements 

• A minimum of 18-years-old.

• Willing to complete a DBS Check (paid for by The Diana Award).

• Willing to provide contact details for two referees.

• Has the right to work and volunteer in the UK. 

• Able to attend a three-hour in-person mentor training session. 

• Able to commit to weekly face-to-face sessions. 

• Lives or works in London.

Skills 

• Passion for working with young people. 

• Has developed or willing to develop active listening skills. 

• Ability to see solutions and opportunities when working with people or in a group setting. 

• Ability to show resilience when faced with challenging situations or behaviours. 

Experience / Knowledge 

• Has work experience, this can be professional, from previous volunteering, or social action initiatives. 

• Has developed or willing to develop experience of picking, planning, and delivering a social action campaign. 

Optional Experience / Knowledge 

• Has prior experience working with young people. 

• Has experience in organising grassroots activism. 

• Has experience or knowledge in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). 

• Has experience or knowledge in Widening Participation. 

• Has experience in project management. 

Responsibilities

• Commit to weekly sessions for twelve weeks, demonstrating consistency and punctuality. Mentoring Programme sessions last 60 to 90 minutes (excluding travel time). Follow through is key when working with young people at risk of becoming NEET. 

• Collaborate with a Diana Award Facilitator and other volunteer mentors to deliver and support group mentoring sessions within a school setting. 

• Review session plans and prepare for weekly sessions. Communicate weekly and in a timely manner with other volunteer mentors and a Diana Award Facilitator. 

• Create a safe and positive learning environment and provide young people with encouragement, guidance, and constructive feedback. 

• Nurture positive relationships with young people. Listen, understand, and acknowledge their feelings and experiences. 

• Support young people to plan a social action project. 

• Foster a growth mindset and encourage young people to challenge themselves to work towards their goals. 

• Support young people’s professional development by connecting them with further opportunities. For example, workplace visits, work experience, resources, relevant networks etc. 

• Identify and report any safeguarding and child protection concerns or disclosures to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, as per The Diana Award Safeguarding Policy. 

OUR CHARITY 

The Diana Award is the charity legacy to Diana, Princess of Wales’ belief that young people have the power to change the world. We seek to empower young people, delivering bespoke youth programmes for children and young people aged 9 – 25. We work with young people to unlock their potential, create opportunities for their growth, and inspire action from them to lead the change they want to see. 

HOW CAN I APPLY?

1. Read the Mentor Application Pack attached, so you have all the necessary information before applying. 

2. Apply now using the Online Application Form

The deadline to apply is 6th August 2025 you will hear back about your application in mid-August 2025. 

If your application is successful, volunteer mentoring will begin in October 2025, following identity checks and training. 

We can’t wait to receive your application! 

Become a Trustee of The Whiteley Homes Trust — Champion Community, Governance, and Legacy

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in later life housing and care?

The Whiteley Homes Trust is seeking a committed individual to join our Board of Trustees and help shape the future of Whiteley Village. As a Trustee, you’ll play a central role in guiding the charity’s strategy, governance, and community impact.

Whiteley Village in Surrey is a pioneering retirement community, home to over 350 residents. As we look ahead, we’re focused on sustaining our legacy, enhancing services, and providing homes that empower people to live independently and with dignity.

PURPOSE OF ROLE
The Board of Trustees are entrusted to further the work of the Trust in accordance with its charitable objectives and to act as champions for the charity in the public arena.

The Board is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines, and its funding bodies, including lenders and investors’ covenants.

Trustees are Directors of The Whiteley Homes Trust, a Company limited by guarantee and governed by company law. Ultimately the Board is responsible for ensuring that the Trust is an effective business – efficient, making best use of its resources and treating all with whom it engages fairly.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Working with other Trustees, ensure that The Whiteley Homes Trust has a clear strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating outcomes against agreed targets.
• Provide constructive challenge to facilitate the achievement of strategic objectives, holding the Leadership Team to account for the delivery of The Whiteley Homes Trust’s goals and strategy.
• Establish a constructive and working relationship with, and provide support to, the Trust’s Chief Executive and the broader Leadership Team (LT).
• Ensure the sound financial health of the charity, and that systems are in place to ensure financial accountability and control.
• Ensure that The Whiteley Homes Trust’s finances, assets and reputation are maintained and protected and not placed at undue risk.
• Ensure that The Whiteley Homes Trust complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that The Whiteley Homes Trust applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives, and for the greatest benefit of the people it serves.
• Support the LT and employees to develop positive and productive relationships with other partners.

TRUSTEE QUALITIES:

In addition to the above statutory duties, Trustees should use the specific skills, knowledge and experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focussing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation, taking a close interest in one of the Trust’s activities to which their expertise and/or experience is particularly relevant or other contributions arising from Trustees’ special expertise. Qualities we are looking for include:

• Shares the vision and commitment of The Whiteley Homes Trust and its aims and values to provide excellent services within a framework of sound financial discipline.
• Has the time and energy to fulfil the responsibilities of the role in an appropriate way.
• Committed to equality of opportunity.
• A strong leader with credibility and enthusiasm; a decisive and effective decision-maker who leads by example.
• An ability to think laterally and creatively.
• Able to work as a member of a team acting and thinking organisationally with a collaborative style that engages at all levels and promotes positive relationships throughout The Whiteley Homes Trust and its partners.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of trusteeship.

TRUSTEES ARE REQUIRED TO:

• Spend time before each Board and relevant Committee meeting reading and considering papers.
• Be contactable by e-mail and telephone.
• Be available for occasional meetings, visits, fundraising events or discussions between full Board meetings.
• Declare any relevant personal interests and avoid conflicts of interest.
• Respect confidentiality of information.

Person Specification

CORE COMPETENCES

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, able to liaise effectively with a wide range of stakeholders and audiences.
• Strategic thinking, able to analyse complex information, demonstrate clear analytical intellect and take part in evidence-based decision making.
• The ability to work as a strong team member, building confidence in the Trust’s governance and supports the values, ethos and social housing objectives of Whiteley Homes Trust.
• The ability to assess risk and promote risk awareness without being risk averse and understand and evaluate business risks and opportunities in a manner that allows
• The Trust to fully embrace opportunities as they arise.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience of operating at a senior level (either executive or non-executive) within a customer focused service organisation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of commercial issues, with strong business acumen.
• Knowledge of the not-for-profit housing environment including regulation is desirable but not essential.
• A track record at a strategic level of applying technology and data to the design of good customer service.
• The Trust has a skills-based Board, and each Board Member is appointed for their professional skills and experience. The Board is currently looking for community engagement and housing development skills and experience. Alongside these skillsets, experience of working in the housing sector or related regulation is desirable.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong strategic planning skills, able to develop strategic vision.
• Able to challenge appropriately and hold the Board and senior leaders to account; with a wider vision to raise standards across the organisation.
• Able to work collaboratively, building consensus and participating in ‘cabinet style’ decision making.
• Ability to make balanced judgements on issues taking all aspects into account, considering the quantity and quality of information provided, and evaluating the consequences.
• Able to express views succinctly and effectively in a formal meeting making reasoned and thought- through contributions which stick to discussing the matter at hand.

PERSONAL BEHAVIOUR AND STYLE

• Actively role models the professional conduct expected of the Board and is a champion and advocate of our values.
• Proactively demonstrates strong commitment to equality and diversity.
• Passionate about service improvements; strongly champions the right of Whiteley Homes Trust residents and service users to have access to excellent services.
• Listens to others and is decisive when it is required.
• Demonstrates credibility and integrity.

Join the governing body ('the Corporation') of Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College to determine strategy and monitor performance of a further education college with a mission of aiming high and changing lives.

What will you be doing?

West London College is a further education college with three centres located in Ealing, Hammersmith and Southall. For nearly 150 years, we have been providing training and development in the area, helping over 10,000 students achieve their career goals each year. The College has a governing body ('the Corporation') made up principally of governors appointed from outside the College to take legal responsibility for the College and make key decisions about how it is run. 

Governors are individuals with broad skills and experience drawn from local communities and businesses, as well as from the public sector. The Board also includes staff members, student governors and the College’s CEO. The CEO (the only executive member on the Board) is responsible for the operational running of Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College (EHWLC). 

The Board is advised by a Director of Governance, a professional independent of college management who accesses independent professional advice. The CEO and Board are also supported by a ‘senior leadership team’ with educational, financial and other relevant expertise. The Board, CEO and leadership team work together to set and implement college strategy and to be responsible stewards of the college’s assets.

What are we looking for?

The College has adopted the Education and Training Foundation's competency framework for governors and uses it for recruitment and performance purposes. Prospective governors should be able to evidence the majority of the Leadership and Values/Behaviours below. Developing expertise across the Technical elements will be supported by College staff and through participation in relevant training and development opportunities, for example via the Association of Colleges.

Governors will typically come to the College with a specific area of professional expertise. They need not be experienced in all of the areas highlighted.

Leadership

• The ability to think strategically about the future for further education
• A commitment to role model high standards of ethical leadership and act in accordance with the Seven Principles of Public Life
• Understanding the needs of and engaging with the college’s key stakeholders including learners, staff, employers and our communities
• The ability to provide constructive challenge and build consensus and understanding
• The ability and willingness to communicate effectively with a wide range of people and organisations

Values/Behaviours

• Connects ideas from different sources and asks insightful questions
• Actively promotes the inclusion of a full range of perspectives to inform decision-making processes
• Communicates with openness and honesty
• Brings people together around a common vision in pursuit of the college’s strategic priorities
• Focused on the bigger picture and delivering results for learners

Technical

• Understanding of the means by which the quality and performance of colleges is measured and assessed
• Appreciation of the facilities and systems involved in operating a large FE college with varied provision
• Understanding a college workforce and the complementary roles played by teaching and business support staff
• Understanding of the principles, methods and tools used for risk identification, assessment and mitigation
• An ability to interpret financial information and use it effectively to inform decision-making

What difference will you make?

Governors bring their professional experience and personal attributes to bear in support of the college’s educational mission. The Board includes a wide range of experiences and professional backgrounds. It is not necessary to have worked in an educational setting in order to serve as a college governor – indeed, the college benefits from outside perspectives just as much as experience from other schools, universities and colleges.

What we expect is a commitment to the mission, vision and values of West London College, a willingness to make a full contribution and the ability to devote the time required to make that a reality. Taking into account preparing for and attending formal meetings, visiting the colleges, and attending training and networking events, this is likely to be around 6-10 hours per month. Formal meetings are a combination of in-person and online events.

You will add value by applying your professional skills and external perspective to ensure that the College meets the challenges of its external environment with a broad perspective. 

Before you apply

Please express your interest via Reach in the first instance. Deadline is 31 Oct 2025.

Candidates whose applications meet the College's requirements will be invited to have an informal conversation to explore the opportunity in greater detail. Please note that all appointments are made formally by the Board on the recommendation of the Search & Governance Committee, and that you must be willing to undergo referencing, safeguarding checks and other mandatory training prior to an appointment being made. 

Who we are 

ECA offers a Social Centre that serves as a place for people to reconnect with old friends and meet new people in a secure and inviting setting. While activities are primarily aimed at elderly and vulnerable adults in the local area, the centre is open to everyone.

Our current programme includes

• Social gatherings at the Elleray Social Centre.
• Arts, crafts, educational talks, and workshops.
• Exercise Classes, Gentle fitness classes tailored for seniors, both indoor and outdoor.
• Counselling and support groups.
• Outings

Services like hairdressing, chiropody, and daily hot lunches

How we operate 

The Social Centre is managed by a Centre Manager, Administrator, Activity and Volunteer Coordinator, and a cook. They are supported by a team of approximately 40 volunteers who assist in the office, gardens, café, and facilitate daily activities. The organization operates as a Charitable Company regulated by the Charities Commission and has eight Trustees on the Board of Trustees. The Trustees meet six times a year, with additional meetings as needed.

To discuss the role further, please contact the current Chair, Joan Barnett.

Chair Role Description 

• Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that ECA achieves its mission.
• Work in partnership with the Centre Manager and team to achieve ECA’s mission.
• Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation.
• Optimise the relationship between the board and ECA’s staff and volunteers.
• Plan and chair the board meetings and the AGM, with others as appropriate.
• Act as a spokesperson and figurehead for ECA.

What we are looking for

• Ideally previous experience of being a trustee.  
• A keen sense of strategic purpose.
• Governance and committee experience in a charity or business setting.
• Strong in execution and managing transformation projects, including leading the charity in the new ECA building setting.  
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and ability to constructively negotiate and collaborate with various institutions, entities, and personnel.
• Affinity with and commitment to the local SW London and Teddington area.
• Business experience and awareness across finance, risk, IT, and people management, would be desirable.    
• An inclusive leadership style, able to inspire and support everyone to participate on an equal footing.  
• The ability to listen and engage effectively, comfortable with challenge and debate and able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative board environment.  
• In advocation, be able and willing to champion ECA’s work through personal networks, social media, and other channels.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.  
• Be available, responsive and flexible to advise, support or give consent to, as needed.

Terms of office  

• Trustees are appointed for a 3-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 9 years.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Time commitment

• Attending [6] Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are generally held in person at the ECA building.
• Periodic meetings with the Centre Manager and management team, with flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad-hoc issues.
• Other meetings, including on potential strategy and other charity-related issues.  

In addition to the above, the Chair will have the responsibilities and qualities of all trustees:

Responsibilities of all trustees 

• Support and provide advice on ECA’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.  
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation. 
• Oversee ECA’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.  
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation. 
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively. 
• Review and approve ECA’s financial statements. 
• Provide support and challenge to the ECA’s management team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs. 
• Keep abreast of changes in ECA’s operating environment. 
• Contribute to regular reviews of the ECA’s own governance. 
• Convene and attend Board meetings, and be prepared to contribute to discussions and lead on proposed outcomes.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect ECA’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests. 
• Contribute to the broader promotion of ECA’s objects, aims, and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge, and contacts.

Essential qualities and attributes of all trustees 

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and act in the best interests of the charity. 
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgment, and work effectively as a board member. 
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.  
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. 
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission. 
• Willingness to lead according to the ECA values.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

The Elleray Centre

The Centre will be fully accessible, featuring a lift to the first floor. It includes a large hall that can split into two rooms and two additional activity rooms upstairs. A café and lounge will also open onto a garden with outdoor seating.

The funding for the new centre comes from Richmond Council, acknowledging ECA's local contributions over three decades. The future centre is leased from the council.

Deadline 31/10/2025

Application includes CV and brief covering letter 

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.

Are you passionate about protecting the countryside? Do you want to help ensure future generations have beautiful surroundings for their mental health, a better climate to live in and food to eat, while also having sustainable energy, transport and places to live?

CPRE Buckinghamshire is looking for enthusiastic individuals to support our work on local planning matters, ranging from county-wide development plans through neighbourhood (local) plans, to proposals for large commercial and residential developments.

By volunteering with us you would be providing invaluable input into our campaigns and helping to ensure the protection and celebration of the green spaces of Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.

Activities include:

* Investigating planning applications, helping us to influence their outcome

* Reviewing plans, applications and other consultations and sharing your findings

* Drafting response letters to the local planning authority

* Researching planning policy and best practice

* Supporting local communities in responding to planning issues and contributing to local campaigns

* Assisting in the preparation of responses to wider consultations, including planning appeals

* Liaising with other CPRE volunteers, local residents or other organisations.

Person description:

This role does not require previous experience with planning, as training and guidance can be provided. However, some knowledge would be very helpful. We hope you can offer us many of the qualities described below:

* A strong passion for the countryside

* An understanding of the planning system (or be willing to learn)

* An interest in investigative work, with an eye for detail

* A desire to share your knowledge with others in the branch

* Good communication skills – written and verbal

* Can attend meetings or, when not possible, can provide updates for meetings

* Computer literate – the internet, e-mail and MS Word or equivalent.

This is an ideal opportunity to grow your knowledge of the planning system, and to gain experience of working in the environmental campaigning sector or for an environmental charity. You will have the opportunity to meet local people and feel part of a friendly and passionate group.

We anticipate that this role could take a few hours per week, but it can be as little or as much as you like. We keep in regular contact via phone and/or email to discuss progress and to provide support. Group meetings are usually virtual.

The role is voluntary, although we will pay all out-of-pocket expenses with prior agreement, in line with our Volunteers Policy.

Spectra is a Community Interest Company (CIC), working to improve the choices, health, and well-being of structurally excluded communities across London, particularly in relation to their sexual health, emotional resilience, and well-being, and to combat isolation and minimise risk.

Under the steer of its Chief Executive and Board of Directors, Spectra’s outstanding staff team provides supportive, knowledgeable, and non-judgemental services, all of which are peer-led, meaning they are delivered by people with lived and learned experience. Spectra strives to proactively identify the needs of all its service users, supporting them appropriately and effectively.

We are now seeking suitably experienced and committed individuals to join our Board as Directors of the CIC.

Director with Fundraising Experience: You will provide strategic direction for the organisation around fundraising, including helping to shape and support our fundraising strategy around diversifying our funds and growing our individual giving. You will support Spectra’s delivery of statutory and grant-funded services, help us in advancing our vision, and provide constructive scrutiny and oversight of the Chief Executive and the work of Spectra’s staff.

Director with Communications, Marketing, and PR Experience: You will provide strategic direction for the organisation around communications, marketing, and PR. You will support our plans to increase our reach and brand, further our communications work and strategy, including social media marketing and campaigning, and enhance our PR opportunities. You will support Spectra’s delivery of statutory and grant-funded services, help us in advancing our vision, and provide constructive scrutiny and oversight of the Chief Executive and the work of Spectra’s staff.

Spectra is based in Vauxhall, South London. It is expected that you will attend five meetings (in the evening, currently online on a Monday evening) and two SMT/Board Away Days each year (currently in person). In addition, it is envisaged that you will contribute your expertise outside of Board meetings on occasion, e.g., to review service or planning reports, to input into a focus group, etc.

Are you a confident individual with an understanding of the corporate sector and/or fundraising, and a passion to work with the local church to transform communities?

If you have a heart for seeing the direction of young people’s lives radically changed, this could be the opportunity for you!

Location: Bournemouth

Contract: Part-Time

Hours: 6-10 hours per month

Closing date: Monday 25th August, 09.00am (We are interviewing on a rolling basis and might close the application early if we find the right candidate).

Application pack: Have a look at our application pack for more information about the role and Resurgo

We’re looking for new Trustees for the Board of Spear Bournemouth Trust, which runs the Spear Programme in partnership with Resurgo Trust, equipping and empowering unemployed 16 – 24-year-olds to overcome barriers to employment and turn their lives around by moving into sustainable work or further education.

Responsibilities

Governance and meeting attendance

• Attend Trustee meetings (approx. 6-9 times a year)
• Responsibility for the governance of the Trust, including meeting any legal and Charity Commission requirements
• Ensure the Trust complies with all legal duties including annual reporting, audits, insurance and data management

Local relationship building

• Build relationships with individuals in local churches to build and develop a network of supporters for the Spear Programme
• Act as a spokesperson for Spear Bournemouth, building the charity’s profile locally

Income generation

• Develop and manage relationships with local donors or companies (working with Spear coaches and other trustees)
• Steward relationships with funders, keeping them engaged in the work of Spear Bournemouth
• Input into a fundraising strategy (with significant input and support from the Resurgo team) to fundraise ~£120,000 per year to cover the costs of the Spear Programme

Working together

• Develop strong working relationships with fellow Trustees
• Support the Spear coaches in line with Resurgo’s coaching approach, ensuring the centre continues to thrive and deliver outstanding impact

Active participation in and support for church team and mission

• As the Spear programme is run in partnership with local churches, the Trustees will ideally have a personal presence in a Bournemouth-based church and actively work with and support the mission of Love Church, a key partner. As part of this you may be asked to speak at church/events

Person Specification:

• Professional or voluntary experience in one of the following: Partnership or business development; Fundraising
• An active Christian, passionate about supporting young people with barriers to education and employment into sustainable work
• Effective interpersonal skills and high emotional intelligence
• Good time management and organisational skills, highly self-motivated with good initiative
• Excellent communication skills and confidence building relationships with a diverse range of people

Laurence’s Larder is a food aid charity based in Brondesbury Park, Brent. Every week we offer food parcels, sit-down hot meals, a clothes bank, social activities, and access to a wide range of vital support services. We are non-referral and open to all. We bring people together, alleviating both loneliness and food poverty, utilising surplus food that would otherwise go to landfill.

Laurence’s Larder is seeking a new Chair of the Board — someone who can bring energy, strategic thinking, and people skills to help guide the charity into its next phase. 

This is a wonderful opportunity to lead a well-respected, fast-growing charity that’s deeply embedded in its local community.