Advocacy volunteer roles

As a till volunteer, you'll be the friendly face of our shop, handling customer transactions with a smile. You'll provide top customer service, and help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps our customers coming back!

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays.
• Accepting donations from members of the public, speaking to the donors and asking them a few questions..
• Following clear instructions to label donations in order to maximise income.

We welcome candidates with experience in the building/maintenance and HR sectors to join our board of trustees who support the charity as well as bringing decades of experience working in many different sectors.

What will you be doing?

Who is Open Road?

We are a UK healthcare charity, now in our 34th year.  We provide a myriad of services in Essex and Medway; drug and alcohol support, homelessness services, domestic abuse support, criminal justice services, employment support, welfare and community initiatives to promote community safety and combat anti-social behaviour.  We help vulnerable people, young and old, throughout Essex and Medway, and work in the heart of local communities.  We are not a large national faceless charity; we are very much a grassroots organisation.  We fully embrace and utilise our local knowledge and expertise, working with likeminded partners to support as many people as possible to have healthier, happier lives in the heart of their families and communities.

What Is Our Mission?

Our mission is to empower a diverse range of individuals, families and communities to lead healthy and more meaningful lives, free from addiction, offending behaviour and disadvantage, to ensure healthier, happier lifestyles.

How Do Open Road’s Trustees Support The Charity?

The role of the Trustee is to assist in advancing the purpose of the organisation; developing its aims and goals, keeping within its charitable objectives and acting in its best interests. The board members ensure that the charity is run in accordance with its governing document, charity law, and any other laws and regulations which affect its activities.

Our Trustee Board are responsible for developing strategy, providing governance, and directing the charity towards achieving its mission.  We are looking to appoint two new trustees – the first being from the building and maintenance sector – with the experience and knowledge to support the health and safety responsibilities of a growing charity, and the second being a HR professional who will chair our Personnel Sub Committee with special responsibility for oversight of the organisation’s HR function and strategy, ideally you will be a Chartered Member or Fellow of the CIPD with substantial experience at a Senior/Director HR professional level with a thorough understanding of operational HR policy and practice.

An understanding of the role of charity boards and their responsibilities and operation, gained through previous experience would be helpful, and above all else you will be intrinsically values-driven and committed to enabling more individuals we support to live their lives to the full.

What are we looking for?

SKILLS AND ABILITIES – Charity Trustee

• Effective communication and interpersonal style; a collaborative team player.
• Willing to speak out on issues and to accept personal accountability.
• Demonstrates strategic acumen and sees the bigger picture.
• Undisputed personal integrity.
• Personally flexible and agile working approach.
• Deep commitment to the mission and values of Open Road.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT – Charity Trustee

REMUNERATION:

• This role is unremunerated and offered on a voluntary basis.
• Trustees are encouraged to visit services that are local to them.
• Travel and accommodation expenses are reimbursed for meetings & visits.

 TIME COMMITMENT:

• The time commitment is at least one day a month.
• There are six board meetings a year and this includes an annual strategy setting day.
• Board meetings are held in person in Central London.
• All trustees are expected to participate on at least one committee and there are four committee meetings a year.
• Committee meetings are held in person/virtually.

Key responsibilities:

• To take part in formulating and regularly reviewing the strategic aims of the
• organisation.
• Working with other trustees to ensure that the policy and practices of the organisation
• are in keeping with its aims.
• Working with other trustees to ensure that the organisation functions within the legal and financial requirements of a charitable organisation and strives to achieve best practice.

What difference will you make?

A trustee at Open Road will have a profound and lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities across Essex and Medway. By joining the Board, a trustee contributes to the strategic direction and governance of a grassroots charity that delivers vital services — from addiction recovery and homelessness support to domestic abuse intervention and community safety.

Specifically, a trustee will:

• Strengthen Governance and Strategy: By bringing sector-specific expertise (in HR or building/maintenance), trustees will help shape policies and decisions that ensure Open Road remains safe, compliant, and forward-thinking.
• Enhance Operational Excellence: Trustees provide oversight and guidance that directly influence the quality and sustainability of services, ensuring the charity continues to meet the complex needs of its clients.
• Champion the Mission: Trustees act as ambassadors for Open Road’s values, helping to build partnerships, raise awareness, and advocate for those the charity supports.
• Support Leadership and Staff: Through committee work and strategic planning, trustees offer critical support to the executive team, helping to foster a positive, values-driven culture within the organisation.

Ultimately, the impact of a trustee is measured not just in governance, but in the healthier, safer, and more hopeful lives of the people Open Road serves.

Before you apply

If this role sounds ideal, do please contact us for more information, and apply via Reach.

Location: Remote (with occasional attendance to in-person events)

Hours: 8 Hours per month

Expenses: This is an unpaid remote position; however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Closing date: 19 September 2025

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​Role Overview

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Joining a dynamic and passionate Board, the ideal candidate will provide expert oversight, guidance, and support for the Charity’s strategic objectives and as Chair of the People & Remuneration Committee, work closely with senior leadership on current and future strategic People (HR) matters.

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​Key responsibilities

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• Provide Board level oversight, support and challenge of Migrant Help’s strategic objective of being a ‘Great Place to Work’
• Contribute constructively to the charity’s strategic plans, progress and decision making
• Chair the People & Remuneration Committee effectively, developing the meeting agenda with the People & Culture Director
• Lead on people matters at Board meetings in relation to the charity and its trading subsidiary Migrant Help Trading Limited (MHTL).
• Work in partnership with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team
• Oversee the governance of People (HR) Risk
• Provide input on organisational policies in line with best practice and employment legislation
• Act as an ambassador for the charity to external bodies, corporate partners and major donors
• Trustees share collective responsibility for the charity’s governance, ensuring the charity’s mission is achieved and its operations are effective. Trustees support the CEO by contributing to strategic planning, offering expertise, and working together to provide the necessary oversight and direction for the charity’s growth and success.
  
   

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The skills and abilities you need

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• Senior strategic leadership and management experience
• Demonstrable expertise in people & culture, strategy, recognition, reward and organisational development
• An inclusive leader, with good interpersonal and relationship building skills
• Independent judgement and strong communication skills
• Act with integrity and respect when working with others.
• Previous experience as a trustee (desirable).
   

​For more information about the role and requirements of Trustees at Migrant Help see here

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Mandatory Training Requirement

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The Safeguarding Trustee must complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.

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Terms of Appointment

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• Trustees serve an initial three-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of a second term of three years.
• All trustees must complete governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of appointment. Additional training available as required.
• This position is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and references.
• Unremunerated, reasonable expenses reimbursed

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​Time Commitment:

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• 8 hours per month, including:
  • Attending quarterly board meetings, in-person (London) or virtually
  • Chairing the People & Remuneration Committee, 2 to 3 times per year, virtually
  • Annual half-day strategy session to contribute to the charity’s direction.
     

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​About Migrant Help

​

Migrant Help is a leading charity that was established in 1963 and delivers a range of support and advice services to people affected by displacement and exploitation across the UK. Our vision is for a global society that protects vulnerable people, treats them with respect and enables them to reach their full potential.

We foster a culture in which equality, diversity and inclusion are recognised, valued and encouraged. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, we match your skills with the needs of our organisation, as long as you share our values, vision and goals. We welcome applications from candidates regardless of their age, religion or belief, race, gender reassignment, disability, sexual orientation, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity.

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Migrant Help is committed to safeguarding those we provide a service to, applicants will have to undergo strict vetting procedures throughout different stages of the recruitment process therefore:

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• All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

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How to apply

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​To apply for this role you will be asked to upload a copy of your CV along with an expression of interest letter.

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We particularly welcome applications from people with first-hand or indirect experience of displacement, either recently or in past generations

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KCSC are seeking an experienced and committed individual to join the Board and take up the role of Treasurer.  Ideally someone who lives or works in the borough but more importantly has an understanding of charity finances and has possibly had a previous role as Treasurer.

ABOUT US

Kensington and Chelsea Social Council (KCSC) is the Council for Voluntary Services for the borough of Kensington and Chelsea.  Our vision is for powerful, engaged communities driving change and our mission is to strengthen and champion local communities and the voluntary and community sector.

We are a membership organisation, registered as a charity and company limited by guarantee and represent 600 voluntary and community organisations on our database and to whom we aim to provide a range of services, some of which include:

• Advice, guidance and information to help organisations run as effectively as possible
• Bringing voluntary organisations and community groups together to network and support partnership building
• Working closely with residents, resident associations and social action groups to address key local issues and ensure their voices are heard at decision making level
• Advocating on behalf of the local voluntary and community to help influence and shape local decision making

We are especially keen to ensure long-term sustainability of our local community by working with everyone to develop an inclusive, active borough.

You can read more about KCSC on our website.

BEING A TRUSTEE

As with any charity, trustees have overall responsibility for making sure it is running well and is doing what it was set up to do. This includes ensuring the charity:

· Spends its money sensibly on the activities it was raised for

· Does not break the rules in its Articles - the charity’s governing document

· Continues to meet our commitments to the communities we serve in accordance with our charitable objectives

· Follows the law, including preparing reports and accounts to send to the Charity Commission

A NEW TREASURER

Our current Treasurer has been serving on the Board since 2021 and has supported the organisation through a difficult economic climate and has helped shape and improve the way in which trustees monitor income and spend through a system of key performance indicators that are reported on.  His commitment, time and financial knowledge he has brought to the role has been valued and made our financial reporting more robust over the years.  Upon stepping down the incumbent is willing to support the incoming treasurer over a period of time to ensure a smooth transition into the organisation.

We are therefore seeking an experienced and committed individual to join the Board and take up the role of Treasurer.  Ideally someone who lives or works in the borough but more importantly has an understanding of charity finances and has possibly had a previous role as Treasurer.

The Treasurer Role primarily is as follows:

· Overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts and financial statements

· Making sure that the financial resources of KCSC meet its present and future needs

· Ensuring that KCSC has an appropriate Reserves and Investment policy

· Preparing and presenting financial reports to the Finance & Personnel Sub Committee and the Board in collaboration with the CEO and Director of Operations

· Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place and are compliant

· Advising on the financial implications of KCSC’s strategic plans

· Keeping the Finance and Personnel Sub Committee and the Board informed of its financial duties, responsibilities and obligations

· Advising on the preparation / submission of financial reports to funders and the Charity Commission

· Overseeing and advising on financial risk and financial management of KCSC

ABOUT YOU

You will have experience of charity accounting and able to provide guidance on ensuring the organisation adheres to charity accounting principles and policies.  Previous experience of being on a charity board  would be preferable although not essential.  However, a commitment to the furtherance of the voluntary and community sector and its role within civil society and subscribing to our stated mission and values is important.

THE COMMITMENT

The Treasurer will need to commit to attending a total of 8 Board/Sub Committee meetings a year as well as spending a few hours each month on attending additional internal meetings with CEO/Director of Operations/Chair on financial matters.

JOB ROLE

To read more about the job role please see the attachment. 

APPLICATION PROCESS

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact our CEO Angela Spence.

If you would like to apply for this position, please send a comprehensive CV and a supporting statement of no more than two pages of A4 to Angela Spence by email.  The closing date is Friday 26 September 2025.

Your supporting statement should set out in compelling terms why you would like to be part of the next chapter at KCSC and what special skills and experience you could bring to the role as Treasurer.

KCSC is committed to celebrating diversity and ensuring equality of opportunity.  We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Other considerations to be aware of that can prevent becoming a trustee

· Conflicts of interest. All potential conflicts should be discussed with the Chair or the CEO prior to applying

· Confirmation that the trustee is not disqualified from holding a trusteeship

· People under the age of 18, unless the charity is a registered company

· Anyone convicted of an offence involving deception or dishonesty unless the conviction is spent

· Anyone who is an undischarged bankrupt

· Anyone who has previously been removed from trusteeship of a charity by the Court or the Commissioners

· Anyone who is under a disqualification order under the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1996

· In certain cases, the Charity Commission has the power to grant a waiver and allow a person disqualified from trusteeship, under section 72 (1) of the Charities Act 1993 to accept a trustee post. We only agree in those cases where the charity can clearly demonstrate that the waiver is in the best interests of the charity

What happens next?

Once we receive your application, it will be assessed based on what we are looking for as specified above and you will be notified of the outcome.  If invited to interview you will meet a panel of 3 which includes two trustees and the CEO.  If successful we will invite you to observe a board meeting in action before confirming with you whether you would like to join the board.  If appointed, we will organise a tour of the office to meet the staff and agree any necessary training required.

We actively encourage people who are under represented on Boards within the charity sector including people from minoritized communities to apply,

KCSC’s Board operates under the guidance of the Charity Governance Code and Trustees are appointed on the basis of signing up to the declaration of eligibility and responsibility.

INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your interest in joining the Board of Trustees at The Diana Award. We are expanding our Board to help shape the future of a charity that exists to celebrate and empower young people making positive change in their communities.

As we mark 25 years of continuing Princess Diana’s legacy, we stand at a pivotal moment. Our newly refreshed strategy and global partnerships demand an ambitious, dynamic, and forward-thinking Board – one that reflects both our values and the communities we serve.

We are seeking to appoint:

• Four new Trustees
• With one Trustee to serve as Chair of our new Income Generation sub-committee

A few words from the Chair

“This is a pivotal and exciting time for our charity. We have a clear vision, an ambitious strategy for growth, and the support of a skilled and dedicated senior team and Board.

Since stepping into the role of Chair last year, I’ve been continually inspired by the passion, expertise, and commitment of our trustees and staff. Their collective experience has been invaluable as we navigate the evolving challenges facing the sector.

While the external environment remains complex for all charities, we are focused on the future – confident in our direction and energised by the opportunities ahead. We are now seeking new trustees to join us on this journey and help shape the next chapter of our work.” - Rebecca Crook

ABOUT THE DIANA AWARD

The Diana Award is a charity legacy to Diana, Princess of Wales’ belief that young people have the power to change the world for the better. Since 1999, over 47,000 young people have been recognised with The Diana Award for making an outstanding difference in their communities’ across the globe.

With the support of HRH Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge and HRH Prince Harry, The Diana Award aims to inspire and recognise social action in young people by going beyond its original Awards programme with three additional youth led initiatives that emphasize a peer led approach.

We exist to:

1. UNLOCK POTENTIAL

With support, guidance, and opportunities, every young person can reach their full potential, ensuring no young person is left out or left behind.

2. CREATE OPPORTUNITIES

It is vital that young people have a seat at the table. Through our initiatives, we will provide them with skills, tools, and experiences which empower them to lead the change they want to see, both for themselves and the world around them.

3. INSPIRE ACTION

We will continue to inspire, empower, and advocate for action through our initiatives, guided by young people and the change they want to see in the world.

WHY WE ARE RECRUITING

Our Board of Trustees is committed, diverse, and values led. We have strong foundations in strategic leadership and finance. However, a recent skills audit highlighted areas we now wish to strengthen as we continue to evolve.

We are therefore seeking up to four Trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising and Income Generation
• Mental Health and Wellbeing 
• Education Sector
• Social Sustainability 
• Marketing, PR, or Communications
• Legal and Compliance

We are particularly keen to hear from diverse leaders and individuals with lived experience related to our mission. 

Please note: All applications must have the right to volunteer as a trustee in the UK. As part of our safeguarding commitments, all trustee appointments are voluntary and subject to a UK Enhanced DBS check, which must be satisfactorily completed before confirmation of the role.

THE ROLE OF A TRUSTEE

As a Trustee, you will be part of a Board that sets the strategic direction and ensures robust governance of the charity. You will work in partnership with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team to oversee the delivery of our objectives and safeguard the charity’s future. Training and support will be provided for all new trustees.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Trustees are expected to:

• Ensure compliance with Charity Commission regulations and governance best practice
• Uphold the charity’s vision, values, and legal and financial integrity
• Provide strategic oversight and challenge to plans, budgets and risks
• Support income generation through networking, advocacy or fundraising
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the charity’s work
• Attend and contribute to Board and sub-committee meetings

COMMITMENT

• A three-year term, renewable once

• About of 2 hours per month, which breaks down as:
  • Four board meetings per year (2.5 hours each, usually 5pm–7.30pm)
  • One full-day annual strategy session
  • Optional participation in events or subcommittees

• Meetings are hybrid (London-based with virtual access)

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR - PERSON SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL ATTRIBUTES

• Passionate about The Diana Award’s mission and youth empowerment

• Understand the importance of youth voice participation

• Strategic thinker with good judgement and independence of mind

• Inclusive communicator who values diverse perspectives

• Willing to contribute time, expertise, and networks

• Understanding of governance, or willingness to learn quickly

• Commitment to safeguarding practices

DESIRABLE SKILLS/EXPERIENCE

One or more of the following:

• Fundraising and Income Generation - In an increasingly competitive and uncertain funding environment, we need trustees who can help us think creatively and strategically about income generation. This includes drawing on networks, identifying new opportunities, and supporting innovative fundraising approaches that will strengthen our financial resilience and enable us to deliver long-term impact for young people. We are also looking for a new Trustee to chair our new Income Generation sub-committee.
• Mental Health & Wellbeing - With youth mental health at a critical point, we seek trustees with expertise from educational, therapeutic, or public health settings to guide evidence-based strategies that help young people thrive.
• Education Sector - As our work is deeply rooted in schools and learning environments, we value trustees with knowledge of the education sector. Your insight will help us navigate its priorities and challenges, forge strong partnerships, and ensure our programmes complement and enhance the role of education in young people’s lives.
• Social Sustainability - We are seeking trustees who understand how to build inclusive cultures, systems, and communities. Your expertise will help us embed equity and belonging across our organisation, partnerships, and programmes, ensuring every young person feels seen, valued, and able to thrive.
• Marketing, PR, or Communications - We need trustees with senior-level experience in communications, marketing, or public/government relations to help amplify our voice, strengthen our brand, and influence key audiences. Your skills will ensure our message resonates with supporters, partners, and decision-makers.
• Legal and Compliance - Robust governance is critical to maintaining the trust of our stakeholders and the integrity of our work. We are seeking trustees with expertise in legal and compliance matters to help us navigate an evolving regulatory landscape, manage risk effectively, and ensure our policies and practices meet the highest standards.

GOVERNANCE

The Board is chaired by Rebecca Crook and supported by a strong leadership team including CEO Dr Tessy Ojo CBE. The Nominations Committee, a sub-committee of the Board, leads the trustee recruitment process. We are committed to inclusive recruitment and welcome candidates from all backgrounds. In particular, we welcome and encourage applications from young people, and those from black, Asian and global majority backgrounds.

You can see more information about the Nominations Committees governance structure and terms of reference at the end.

RESOURCES

If you’re new to being a trustee, you may find the following resources helpful in understanding the role and responsibilities:

Charity Commission (UK): The Essential Trustee Guide

Young Trustee Movement

Getting On Board - Resources for aspiring trustees

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please email:

1. Your CV (including contact details for two referees)

2. A Supporting Statement (no more than two pages), outlining:

o The skills and experience you bring in relation to the list of desirable criteria

o How your skills and expertise align with the needs of our Board at this time

o If you wish to be considered for the role of Chair of the Income Generation Subcommittee, please outline your relevant experience and how it would support this area of our work

o Your motivation for becoming a Trustee of The Diana Award and the contribution you hope to make to our mission

Email Subject line: Trustee Application – Your Name

Please submit your applications by Friday 26 September 2025 at 5.00pm

PROPOSED TIMELINES

Application Milestones

Dates

• Trustee Recruitment Launch: Week commencing 1st September
• Deadline for Applications: Friday 26th September, 5:00pm
• Interviews Conducted: Thursday 9th & Friday 10th October
• Induction Begins: November
• Trustees Officially Begin: November/December

INTERVIEW PROCESS

Youth Panel Interview (Online) 30 minutes - You will meet with members of our Youth Panel. This will include structured questions and a 5-minute presentation about yourself, focusing on your background, motivations for applying, and what you hope to bring to the trustee role

Nominations Committee Interview (Online)  45 minutes - You will also meet with our Nominations Committee. This will involve structured interview questions focusing on your skills, experience, and alignment with our organisational values and strategic priorities

FUTURE BOARD MEETINGS

Dates

• 21st November 2025 - Strategy Day
• 12th February 2026, 5-7pm
• 7th May 2026, 5-7pm
• 10th September 2026, 5-7pm
• 26th November 2026 - Strategy Day

FINAL THOUGHTS

This is an exciting time to join The Diana Award. As we enter a new chapter, we are looking for bold, compassionate and future-facing leaders to help us shape our journey. We hope you are inspired to join us in empowering young people across the UK and the world.

We look forward to hearing from you.

APPENDIX

Purpose: The primary purpose of the Nominations Committee is to identify, evaluate, and recommend candidates for appointment as Trustees of The Diana Award. This committee ensures that the Board has the appropriate mix of skills, expertise, and diversity to effectively govern the organisation and fulfil its mission.

Membership: The Chair of the Nominations Committee (a Trustee) A minimum of two other Trustees CEO (ex officio member) Any additional members as deemed necessary (e.g., board secretary or HR support)

Frequency of Meetings: The committee will meet as required, typically monthly, and more frequently when necessary for the recruitment process 

Key Responsibilities:

• Review the current composition of the Board of Trustees to identify gaps in skills and diversity
• Develop a recruitment strategy that aligns with the strategic direction of The Diana Award
• Source and evaluate potential Trustee candidates
• Conduct interviews and assessments of candidates’ skills, expertise, and commitment to the mission
• Provide recommendations for new Trustee appointments to the full Board
• Ensure that diversity and inclusivity are considered in all recruitment activities
• Ensure compliance with legal and governance requirements related to Trustee recruitment
• Onboard new Trustees and ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities

Reporting Structure: The Nominations Committee reports to the Board of Trustees, providing recommendations for Trustee appointments

INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE) 

CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings  

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

• CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.
• The reading group is in Tooting and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education.
• Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.
• The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.
• The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.
• Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.
• Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates. 

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources; 

• Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;  

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• * Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.  

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry 

• The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months; 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish; 

• Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

Jak’s World

A Suicide Prevention Charity

Ordsall, Salford, Manchester

Jak’s World is recruiting for Trustees

Are you passionate about mental health and making a real difference in people’s lives? We are seeking committed, compassionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help guide our mission to prevent suicide and support those affected by it. As a trustee, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the future of our charity, ensuring we remain a beacon of hope for individuals and communities in crisis.

About Jak’s World

Jak’s World is a UK-based mental health charity working to prevent suicide in the community. We honour the legacy of Jakub Halani — a creative, kind, and deeply loved teenager — by ensuring that no young person feels alone, hopeless, or without a future.

Our mission is to prevent suicide by fostering hope, connection, and resilience-ensuring that no one faces their darkest moments alone.

We do this by:

· Promoting mental health awareness through creative community engagement, programmes and events.

· Providing suicide prevention resources and support, including Suicide First Aid Training

· Providing positive experiences and hopeful messaging at schools, festivals, and online.

· Empowering people to talk, share, and connect through art, music, and peer-led initiatives.

Becoming a trustee

As a Trustee of Jak’s World, you will play a vital role in shaping our direction, safeguarding our mission, and supporting our passionate team.

Our Trustees provide governance and strategic leadership, ensure accountability, and help Jak’s World grow its reach, credibility, and impact.

We are especially keen to hear from prospective trustees with experience in the following areas;

· Finance and accounting

· Business development and fundraising

· Digital and social media marketing

· Events management

This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of people across Salford.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to shaping Jak’s World’s long-term vision, values, and strategy.
• Ensure good governance, financial oversight, and legal compliance.
• Offer your insight and experience to guide operational and creative decisions.
• Act as an ambassador, helping us build partnerships and extend our reach.
• Champion inclusive, youth-informed mental health support in all areas of our work.
• Offer tangible efforts and contributions in the skills and areas depending on your experience in the operations of the Charity, including but not limited to  -
  • Accounting
  • Digital and Social outreach (websites, articles, blog, social media, videos)
  • Fundraising efforts, including Grant and competition applications
  • Regulatory compliance advice
  • Scale-up strategies
  • Event organisation and planning

Why join us

By joining Jak’s World as a Trustee, you’ll help lead a charity that is small, agile, heartfelt, and determined to change the conversation on difficult subjects like Suicide Prevention.

You will:

• Use your voice to support bold, compassionate action.
• Help co-create projects that reduce stigma and prevent suicide.
• Work with a caring, values-led team rooted in lived experience and community.
• Play a crucial part in growing a sustainable, youth-driven, community-driven charity.

We are looking for

We welcome applications from individuals with any of the following:

· Lived experience of mental health struggles or supporting someone through them.

· Lived experience or survivors of bereavement by suicide.

· Professional experience in youth services, education, social work, or healthcare.

· Creative and digital backgrounds — design, social media, campaigns, content creation.

· Financial or legal expertise to support our governance and growth.

· Fundraising and community engagement experience.

We welcome applications from people who are looking to become a trustee for the first time and from people with more experience. What matters is your passion and commitment to helping us grow and develop as an organisation and to improving the mental wellbeing of young people and families.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the people we serve.

We actively welcome applications from:

• People from all ethnic communities
• LGBTQIA+ individuals
• Disabled people and neurodivergent individuals
• Young adults (aged 18–30)
• People with lived experience of mental ill-health or suicide

We value fresh ideas, different voices, and a willingness to learn together.

How to apply

If you would like an informal discussion, please contact us with your contact details, and I will call you back.

Please send:

A CV and A short written, audio, or video statement (max 2 pages or 5 minutes)

[Your name] – Trustee Application

In your statement, please tell us:

· Why you’re interested in becoming a Trustee at Jak’s World

· What experiences or perspectives you bring

· Any support you’d need to thrive in the role

Every day, The Shakespeare Hospice makes a difference to the lives of local people living with a life-limiting illness, and to those who matter most to them.  We are now seeking a new Trustee to help us shape the future of this vital work.

Based in Stratford upon Avon, we offer services across South Warwickshire and the surrounding areas.  Our aim is to ensure that people living in our community with a life-limiting illness, and their family and friends, are supported with the care and compassion they deserve.

We are now looking for a new Trustee who shares a passion to serve our community and who can help us ensure that we are able to deliver our services today, tomorrow and for always. This is a voluntary role, working alongside fellow Trustees, the Senior Leadership Team and our Chief Executive to ensure the Hospice continues to thrive in today's challenging environment.

We welcome applications from individuals who can bring professional expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising strategy and donor engagement
• Corporate partnerships and sponsorship
• Charity retail
• Trusts and foundations

Strong local connections in Stratford upon Avon and the wider area would be especially valuable.

As a Trustee, you will bring your professional insight to provide oversight, challenge and support.  Just as importantly, you will share our Hospice values: compassion, community and commitment.

The time commitment is around one day per month, including four Board meetings, at least one strategic planning day, the AGM and participation in one of our committees.  Trustees also enjoy attending Hospice fundraising events and engaging with our local community.

We are committed to building a diverse Board that reflects the community we serve. We particularly welcome applications from younger people, people with disabilities and candidates from black and minority ethnic backgrounds.

The Volunteer Book Scheme Coordinator will be responsible for placing and maintaining book shelves in high-traffic public areas, like shopping centres or supermarkets. You will ensure that the bookshelves are stocked with quality books, regularly maintained, and that the collection tin for donations is emptied and managed. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a difference by promoting literacy, community engagement, and supporting the NSPCC's mission to protect children.

Main Duties and  Responsibilities:

• Book Shelf Placement:
  • Identify and arrange the placement of bookshelves in high-footfall areas such as local shops, libraries, community centers, or other public spaces.
  • Ensure they are easily accessible and visible to the public.
• Book Collection & Maintenance:
  • Regularly monitor and maintain the bookshelves, ensuring they are stocked with suitable, high-quality books.
• Donation Collection:
  • Empty and manage the collection tin on a regular basis.
  • Ensure that all donations are securely handled and delivered to the appropriate NSPCC accounts or locations.
  • Ensure the QR code is intact and clearly visible
• Engagement with Local Businesses & Organizations:
  • Build and maintain relationships with local businesses or organizations where bookshelves are placed, ensuring their continued support and involvement.
• Reporting:
  • Provide regular updates to the NSPCC team on the status of the book shelves, including the volume of books donated, amount of donations collected, and any logistical challenges faced.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently.
• Friendly, approachable demeanor to engage with the public and local businesses.
• Attention to detail in managing books and donations.
• Proactive, with the ability to maintain the bookshelves in a clean and orderly condition.
• Comfortable handling small amounts of cash and ensuring secure donation processes.
• A genuine passion for the NSPCC's mission and promoting literacy and child protection.
• Previous volunteer or community outreach experience is a plus, but not essential.

Benefits:

• Contribute to promoting literacy and education within your community while supporting NSPCC's work with children.
• Flexible role with opportunities to meet new people and engage with local businesses.
• Develop skills in volunteer coordination, community engagement, and logistics.
• Training and support from the NSPCC team.
• Be part of a dedicated and passionate team working to make a difference in children's lives.

Time Commitment:

Flexible based on your availability. The role requires regular checks on the bookshelves and the collection tin, with the frequency depending on the specific location and the volume of donations.

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause, engage with your community, and help support children's well-being.

If you have a passion for books, education, and helping others, we'd love to hear from you!

Role: Welcome volunteer

Team: Tooting Hub – CARAS ESOL (Youth/Adult)

Supervised by: Team Project Coordinator

Location: Tooting Hub site

Activity times: Monday or Wednesday

Time commitment: 2 hour shifts on a rolling basis.

We ask that volunteers commit for a minimum of 4 months

About CARAS:

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.

Our values are at the centre of all our work:

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests.

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society.

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes.

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do.

About the Role:

We are currently recruiting a team of volunteers to join our new Welcome team at Tooting Hub. This is a new role. Welcome volunteers will provide a friendly face to existing community members attending our regular projects. They will also be the important ‘face of CARAS and our welcome at the door’ to people attending projects for the first time, to visitors and to people dropping in unannounced to enquire about CARAS’s service. Volunteers will meet and greet, and ensure all visitors are responded to appropriately and introduced to the relevant member of staff, activity, project, or meeting. There will be an administrative element to the role (updating registers and emailing enquiries to CARAS staff, for example).

Who will you be?

We work hard to ensure our services feel welcoming and inclusive. It is important that this new team is representative of our diverse local and internal CARAS community. Whether you are new to volunteering with CARAS or are a regular volunteer looking to vary your role or a community member wanting to develop some leadership skills or volunteering experience, this might be the exact project for you.

Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities: 

· Signing up to a shift/s on the Tooting HUB welcome team rota

· Able to be at Tooting Hub in person to complete agreed shifts

· Welcoming staff, volunteers, existing and potential new community members and visitors

· Ensuring all visitors are responded to appropriately and introduced to the relevant member of staff, activity, project, or meeting

· Ensuring everyone completes the onsite register on arrival to comply with safeguarding, health and safety and fire evacuation policies

· Taking agreed initial intake information for new / drop in visitors wanting to attend a taster activity

· Conducting induction tours of the building and introductions to facilities, key staff, and partners

Requirements (all experience can be from paid or voluntary roles): 

Essential: 

· A calm, friendly, kind, and patient approach

· Happy and confident to meet new people and put them at their ease

· Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English

· To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds

· Confidence in using one’s own judgement to follow agreed policy

· Good IT admin skills in using Microsoft office, outlook, Google search, online forms etc

· A commitment to confidentiality and data protection

· Punctual and reliable

· To be able to volunteer on Mondays or Wednesdays for a minimum of four months

Desirable:

· Lived experience of seeking sanctuary and/ or the UK immigration system.

· Personal experience of working with people seeking asylum.

· Proficiency in one or more of the following community languages: Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Oromo, Pashto, Russian, Spanish, Somali, Tigrinya, Urdu, or Vietnamese.

We will prioritise applicants with lived experience of the asylum process.

Benefits to Volunteering:

· Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum.

· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team.

· Develop your skills and competencies.

· Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training.

· Obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering

· All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. *

· You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an early career Junior Media and Communications Officer to be based with an NGO in the heart of Madagascar.

Living in the coastal town of Fort Dauphin in the southeast of Madagascar, this role will support the team managing SEED’s media and communication work. The successful candidate will work with both national and international staff to assist on a wide variety of tasks, from supporting with planning and scheduling content across our range of social media platforms, creating digital media for marketing and social media and day-to-day administration tasks. The role is predominantly office based with some ad-hoc travel to our rural projects. The diversity of activities undertaken will provide a wide-ranging experience for an early career communications and media professional who can effectively and efficiently deal with a comprehensive range of tasks related to the complex world of overseas development work.

Location: Fort Dauphin, Anosy Region, Madagascar
Commitment: 12 months extendable
Salary: Voluntary, with stipend contribution to living expenses and £650 contribution to insurance

Duties and responsibilities

• Create and write social media, website and newsletter content with staff across all departments in line with SEED’s strategy

• Work with the Senior Media and Communications Officer to develop and edit content, ensuring different platforms are used to best advantage SEED’s positioning 

• Provide timely, day to day monitoring and replying to questions and debates across platforms

• Support the development and strategy of individual giving and fundraising campaigns, through all stages

• Work with the Senior Media and Communications Officer and Project Officers to storyboard and develop content as well as engaging and creative social media and awareness-raising campaigns 

• Support the review and evaluation of social media platforms against marketing KPIs 

• Occasional travel to field sites to generate content to be used on social media and other outlets at the direction of Senior Media and Communications Officer 

• Shoot and edit visual high quality content that documents project activities at a national and international level

• Build capacity within the wider team, improving communication between teams internally and with external partners

• Support with the promotion of the organisation through editing blogs and articles

• Work with the IT Officer to maintain and advance the organisation’s website

• Ensure distinctive and consistent brand identity across all communication outputs

• Provide research as directed on industry trends, potential partners and content topics

• Ensure all of SEED’s policies and procedures are evident throughout the work of the department, including those for safeguarding, whistleblowing and anti-corruption, and undertake continual training to ensure these are promoted at all times

• Complete other ad-hoc tasks as required by the Senior Media and Communications Officer, International Operations Manager, or Director of Programmes and Operations to further the aims and work of the organisation. 

Person specification

• Demonstrate a working knowledge of high-quality photo and video content generation and management

• Have experience of creating social media content, marketing or promotional work in line with SEED’s values 

• Willingness to develop visual content using editing skills with software including Canva

• Display exceptional verbal and written communication skills

• Be able to communicate the organisation’s ethos and mission to national and international audiences through photography, videography and copy writing 

• Have passion, curiosity and motivation for the job and the ability to enthuse others 

• Be punctual and be able to work to tight deadlines in an organised manner and to a high standard

• Demonstrate an interest in conservation and community development 

• Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to SEED’s ethos, values  and approach and be a good ambassador for the organisation at all times 

• Demonstrate proven ability to recognise and appropriately deal with challenging situations

• Have the ability and desire to build capacity and share skills across cultures and work with teams from different economic and cultural backgrounds and across multiple language barriers

• Demonstrate an awareness of and comfort with increased social and professional responsibility, being culturally sensitive and respectful at all times

• Demonstrate the ability, social skills and confidence to give clear guidance and support to other members of the team in respect of the philosophy and procedures of SEED in order to protect both their safety and the reputation of the NGO

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

• Have a flexible and patient attitude

• Have excellent problem-solving skills

• Be able to work both independently and as part of a team

• Be capable and comfortable adapting to life in a less developed country with sometimes basic living conditions 

• Be fluent in English to a high standard. Basic working knowledge of French is desirable though not essential.

About the Organisation

SEED Madagascar is a British Charity working in partnership with communities in the south east of Madagascar. We integrate high quality community health, rural livelihoods, education infrastructure and conservation programmes to support long term, sustainable change and add to international best practice through research and publication across all of our programmatic areas. We are now looking for entry level officers to work alongside national staff and expand our team.

Cripplegate Foundation is looking for new Governors (trustees) to join our board. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a trusted, independent and innovative grant- making organisation that has been supporting Islington for over 500 years.

Working alongside our partners at Islington Giving, we invest over £2 million a year in local charities and community groups. Together we amplify local voices, improve access to opportunities and support lasting change.

 Who we’re looking for

• Do you want to make a real difference in Islington?
• Are you passionate about tackling local poverty and inequality?
• Can you help amplify the voices of those we work with, through your personal or professional experience?
• Could you bring additional diversity to our board so that we better reflect the communities in which we work?
• Do you have some frontline charity experience, senior leadership or otherwise?
• Are you able to commit the time required to make the most of joining us?

We are genuinely encouraging a wide range of people to come forward and cannot emphasise enough how your background, life experience, approach and values are more important than any knowledge or experience of grant making, or of being a trustee elsewhere.

Full induction, mentoring and ongoing support will be provided. This is a voluntary/unpaid role, with expenses covered.

The closing date for applications is 16th October at 5:00 p.m.

For more details and how to apply, please visit our website and download the full Candidate Pack.

Chief Advancement Officer

• Volunteer Role
• Remote/Homebased
• 10hrs a week
• Charity Worker Discounts shopping worth over £2000/year

About Project Yananai
Project Yananai is a dynamic, globally operating nonprofit organisation, with Christian values, dedicated to empowering underserved communities through adult education, sustainable skills training, and humanitarian aid. We believe in creating pathways to self-reliance and resilience, equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to transform their lives and communities.

Position Summary
Project Yananai seeks an inspiring, strategic, and results-driven Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) to join our Executive Leadership Team. The CAO will serve as a key driver of the organisation’s global impact, leading all efforts related to resource development, external communications, and organisational branding. This leadership role involves guiding, mentoring, and developing the departments within the Advancement Division - specifically, Brand & Marketing, Communications & Public Relations, Fundraising & Grants, Donor Relations & Stewardship, Strategic Partnerships, and Ambassador & Influencer Engagement - through their respective department heads. Reporting directly to the CEO, the CAO will develop and execute comprehensive strategies to expand revenue streams, enhance visibility, and foster strategic partnerships aligned with Project Yananai’s mission and growth objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Departmental Oversight

• Provide visionary leadership for the entire Advancement Division, including the departments of Brand & Marketing, Communications & Public Relations, Fundraising & Grants, Donor Relations & Stewardship, Strategic Partnerships, and Ambassador & Influencer Engagement.
• Guide, develop, and support department heads to ensure alignment with organisational goals, operational excellence, and innovative practices.
• Lead the strategic planning process for the advancement functions, ensuring integration across departments to maximise impact and efficiency.

 Resource Development & Revenue Generation

• Oversee all fundraising and resource development activities across the organisation: major gifts, institutional giving, corporate partnerships, grants, individual giving, and innovative revenue streams.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with current and prospective donors, partners, and stakeholders worldwide.
• Develop and implement strategies to diversify and expand revenue sources, including exploring new funding opportunities and innovative financial models.

Communications, Marketing & Brand Management

• Lead the creation and execution of integrated communication, marketing, and public relations strategies that effectively convey Project Yananai’s mission, impact, and value proposition globally.
• Ensure consistent, mission-aligned branding and messaging across all channels.
• Elevate the organisation’s visibility through strategic storytelling, digital campaigns, and media engagement.

Organisational and Team Development

• Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing, diverse team within the Advancement Division, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
• Promote ongoing training, professional development, and succession planning within the division.
• Foster a workplace environment aligned with Project Yananai’s principles of equity, inclusion, and empowerment.

Cross-Department Collaboration & Organisational Alignment

• Serve as a key member of the executive team, collaborating across functions to ensure alignment with organisational priorities.
• Advise on initiatives that intersect with organisational operations, supporting project delivery and organisational sustainability.

Stakeholder Engagement & Strategic Partnerships

• Lead efforts to build and deepen strategic partnerships with organisations, institutions, and influencers aligned with Project Yananai’s mission.
• Oversee Ambassador & Influencer Engagement initiatives, cultivating relationships with advocates and public figures to amplify the organisation’s reach and impact.

Risk & Security Oversight

• Collaborate with Risk & Security Management to ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and security standards, especially in high-risk environments.
• Support development of strategies that mitigate risks related to organisational growth and external engagement.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in global nonprofit organisations, with demonstrated success in fundraising, communications, marketing, and partnership development.
• Extensive experience leading and developing diverse teams and departments.
• Demonstrated ability to secure significant philanthropic support from a broad range of sources, including major donors, foundations, corporations, and innovative revenue streams.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical, creative, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for storytelling and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience working in multicultural, international settings and a deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice principles.
• Familiarity with the complexities of humanitarian and development work, including risk management and security considerations, is highly desirable.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of a purpose-driven organisation making a transformative difference in communities around the world.

Project Yananai is a UK registered charity number 1209060 and an equal opportunity organisation. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all colleagues. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures.

Are you looking for a way to give back to your community? We are seeking organised, compassionate individuals to be the welcoming heart of our Hub. If you have a friendly smile, are well orgabnised and are looking for a reception based role, this could be for you.

BACKGROUND:

• The Cardinal Hume Centre works to prevent and tackle youth and family homelessness, we: 
• Provide a home to 39 young people
• Offer support to local children and families at risk
• Help families keep or find a stable home and manage their money
• Mentor people to find work or training
• Help people secure their legal right to remain in the UK and access homes, work and benefits.

Last year we helped over 1200 people including nearly 600 families and 230 children and young people.  Our aim is to tackle homelessness, poor housing and poverty at a young age and break its cycle into later life.  We want to see the value in each individual and nurture potential, helping young people and families to thrive.

The Centre prides itself on its welcome and person-centred approach. It recognises each individual is different, often with complex needs and so our response must be multi-layered. We therefore have six principal services: residential services for homeless young people; family support; housing and welfare rights advice; employment support; learning; and immigration advice and advocacy. 

OUR PEOPLE - We believe each person matters: 

Our clients guide everything we do. We’re here to help children, families and young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, or clients who have urgent needs that can be met at the Centre and not elsewhere. 

We seek to develop trusting relationships with our clients. We rely on them to help us improve and develop our services, so we include them wherever possible in our work. 

Our staff and volunteers: 
Our staff and volunteers are diverse in their backgrounds, and their skills and experience. Many have lived experience of the challenges our clients face. We are proud of our warm welcome and our team’s commitment to support people facing disadvantage to escape the cycle of poverty and homelessness. 

The HUB on Medway Street is the main entrance for clients who wish to access the services on offer.  Staff in the Hub can provide level 1 advice on housing and welfare rights and for more complex cases, can refer clients to one of our other services, such as housing, welfare rights, immigration, employment and learning, and family services. 

Summary of Role.

You will be supporting a team that is helping people from the local community, who are vulnerable and facing disadvantage, including; homeless young people, people living in insecure accommodation or at risk of losing their housing, low-income families with young children, unemployed people, refugees and migrants. (further details below)

Your presence supports the smooth running of the Centre and increases the team’s capacity to see and help more people.

This role is in the heart of the organisation where you will meet people of all backgrounds and learn how a community organisation responds to local need.

What will you be doing?

• Answering the intercom and buzzing clients in when they arrive
• Welcoming clients to the Centre, signing them in and out of the building calling the staff member to tell them that their client has arrived
• Registering new clients and booking an appointment with the Assessment team
• Assisting with the collection and distribution of client mail
• Administrative support to services, such as, photocopying or scanning documents for service teams and emailing them to relevant staff member
• Printing off and posting out letters to clients
• Possibility of assisting with benefit claims/forms

Other tasks that can be undertaken during quieter periods:

• Assisting clients and staff with phone calls if volunteer speaks a needed language

What are we looking for?

• You will be a confident and patient person with a professional and friendly manner and able to remain calm under pressure
• Some experience of customer service or dealing with a diverse range of people desirable
• Good listening skills
• An ability to communicate well and with confidence when handling enquiries
• Some IT skills useful
• A non-judgemental attitude towards people’s problems in their lives

What is the time commitment?

We are seeking someone for one day a week on a Thursday or Friday from 9.30am to 3pm, with an hour lunch break at 1pm. We are looking for a commitment of 6 months, which sounds like a long time, but there’s lots to learn and volunteers find this goes very quickly! 

How will you be supported?

You will be supported by the Advice and Assessment team  

You will be offered regular supervision and a staff member will be present in the Hub whilst you are on duty

You will be reimbursed for reasonable and agreed ‘out of pocket’ expenses such as travel and contribution to lunch up to £6.

Recruitment Procedure

Apply> Informal interview> Reference and DBS checks> Trial period