Based research volunteer volunteer roles

SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCHERS (SSR)

As a member of The Working Group research team, our Social Science Researchers (SSR) study the human rights liberties and suppressions of women and girls within each country to identify and address social issues. They implement and manage research projects, collect and analyse data, and report findings of said research. Their work helps shape IWI’s policy decisions, social reforms, and human interactions.

RESPONSIBILITIES

o Understand the needs of the project, i.e. the research questions it needs to answer;

o Design an appropriate methodology to deliver the project;

o Design and write survey questionnaires;

o Apply a range of research techniques to gather relevant information, including document analysis, surveys, case studies and interviews (face-to-face, telephone and online);

o Liaise with and direct social research field interviewers to gather information;

o Gather information by directing or carrying out qualitative fieldwork;

o Conduct reviews of relevant literature and evidence;

o Analyse and evaluate research and interpret data using a range of analysis packages;

o Prepare, present and disseminate results in the form of reports, briefings, research papers and presentations;

o Offer research-based briefings and advice, which may involve writing action plans;

o Advise external bodies on social policy;

o Prepare and present tenders for new research projects or respond to research tenders prepared by others.

SKILLS

o Quantitative and qualitative research skills for undertaking tasks such as interviewing, survey design and controlled trials;

o Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills;

o The ability to think logically and creatively;

o A natural sense of curiosity to understand social issues and the impact policy can have;

o Good verbal and written communication skills, to write reports and present findings;

o Strong interpersonal skills for developing and maintaining relationships;

o Teamworking skills and the ability to work well independently;

o Confidence in using Microsoft office software and a range of digital tools and platforms;

o Project management skills to oversee all aspects of a research project right through from initial plans to the final report;

o Accuracy and attention to detail for handling data and reporting research findings;

o A flexible approach to work, with the ability to work on several different research projects simultaneously;

o Organisation skills, good time management and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

REQUIREMENTS

o Fluency in English is a MUST. Additional UN languages are a plus;

o At least 4 years of research experience;

o At least 2 years of experience working for a government authority, INGO and/or private sector.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Working closely with the Grants Managers and under the Head of Fundraising and other members of the senior Volunteer Grant Team, the Grants Coordinator (Unpaid Volunteer) will research, write grants, maintain, and coordinate fundraising efforts for AHO, with a target of a £5m yearly income by the end of 2030.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

The role of Grants Coordinator (Unpaid Volunteer) will research, maintain and coordinate

• Research, write and manage a pipeline of trusts and foundations, aid grants and public sector tenders and contracts that offer unrestricted and programmatic funding.
• Initiate new and manage existing relationships with trusts and other grant-making bodies through emails, calls, meetings, and attendance at events.
• Organise and lead regular fundraising meetings with the Head of Fundraising and the senior team.
• Write and lead on applications, bringing together information and expertise from colleagues as necessary.
• Lead and manage the reporting process to existing funders, bringing together input from colleagues as necessary.
• Attend and assist with public-facing events organised by AHO or others when necessary.
• Work with the senior team to write compelling concept notes and presentations for new areas of work.
• Work with staff and Volunteers across AHO to produce compelling and successful fundraising bids.
• Closely monitor deadlines for applications and reporting, proactively and confidently liaising with relevant staff for timely and high-quality submissions.
• Identify new opportunities for unrestricted and project funding from a range of sources, including trusts, grants and charitable foundations; European, national and local government; individual supporters; and commercial opportunities. 
• Develop and maintain general content and resources in line with branding, such as presentations and texts for staff to reference and share with potential funders.
• Contribute to quarterly Board papers through pipeline updates and the CEO's report.
• Contribute on an ad hoc basis to any other reasonable activity as requested by senior staff.
• Very occasional travel to Africa and other Diaspora for work with our sister organisation, AHO EU and to regions in England where colleagues are based.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Key Competencies

•   Experience in awarding, managing or applying for grants.
•   Experience in awarding, managing or applying for grants.
•   Strong knowledge of UK, EU, and US legislation, accounting requirements and good practice relating to grant awarding and reporting.
•   Experience in using a CRM system or database.
•   Experience in efficiently managing and delivering grant-funded projects and programmes in low settings
•   Ability to work unsupervised, a motivated self-starter, with robust problem-solving, administrative, and multi-tasking skills and is good at follow-through.
•   Excellent analytical and quantitative skills, with the ability to assimilate and digest large volumes of information.
•   Strong attention to detail and strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage workload effectively and to work with changing priorities and time pressures.
•   Ability to occasionally adjust working hours to fit with multiple time zones as required.
•   Strong written and communication skills.  You will be able to present information in a compelling way through proposals, memos and PowerPoint presentations. 
•   Ability to communicate effectively with people from different cultures and backgrounds
•   Desire to contribute to new ideas and ways of working to develop improved models, processes and use of technology in grant-making.
•   Outstanding partnership management skills, with the ability to support and establish highly collaborative internal and external partnerships.
•   Experience with databases/grant-management systems is desirable but not necessary.
•   Financial and budget management skills are desirable but not necessary.
•   Ability in English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Swahili, and Chinese is desirable but not necessary.

We are seeking a skilled and passionate Volunteer Trust & Grant Bid Writer to help secure funding that will enable us to continue and grow our life-transforming work in Christian mental health. Working with the Director of Development, the role will involve identifying funding opportunities, preparing compelling grant applications, and helping us build strong relationships with trusts and foundations aligned with our mission.

Mercy UK is a Christian mental health and wellbeing charity, committed to equipping people to live free and stay free through a range of trauma-informed, faith-based support services. From our flagship Freedom Journey programme to practical resources like Keys to Freedom, we support individuals navigating emotional and spiritual challenges and empower churches and Christian organisations to provide meaningful, transformational support.

Key Responsibilities

● Research suitable grant-making trusts and foundations, with a particular focus on those funding mental health, faith-based initiatives, and/or community wellbeing.

● Work closely with the Director of Development to maintain a pipeline of prospective funders.

● Draft high-quality, tailored funding applications that reflect the heart, outcomes, and impact of Mercy UK’s work.

● Collate and interpret project data, outcomes, and financial information to support applications.

● Support the development of template responses and maintain accurate records of submissions and outcomes.

● Assist in preparing follow-up reports or updates required by funders.

What We’re Looking For

● Strong written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive and inspiring content.

● Attention to detail and the ability to work independently.

● Experience of fundraising through trusts and foundations, or equivalent transferable experience in writing bids or proposals.

● An ability to articulate and represent Christian values and ethos respectfully and effectively in written applications.

● Passion for mental health and wellbeing, and alignment with Mercy UK’s mission and values. 

What You’ll Gain

● The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a growing, impactful charity.

● Experience in trust and grant fundraising, with support and guidance from our development team.

● A chance to use your skills to directly support the emotional, spiritual, and mental wellbeing of individuals across the UK and beyond.

● References and testimonials for future opportunities.

● Access to Mercy UK’s Employee Assistance Programme with Health Assured

Summary

We are seeking a Volunteer Research Assistant to help us strengthen the evidence base behind our work, monitor trends, and develop resources.

Detailed description

Dignify delivers educational workshops in schools to promote healthy relationships, self-respect, and respect for others. We work to prevent the harmful effects of pornography and challenge the normalisation of unhealthy sexual behaviours among young people. Through evidence-based sessions, we equip students with knowledge, empathy, and tools to navigate relationships positively.

Key Responsibilities

·Assist in the analysis, data checking and proof reading of our Dignify School Reports

·Research and summarise current academic studies, reports, and news related to pornography’s impact, healthy relationships, and safeguarding.

·Track trends and statistics on young people’s digital and relationship behaviours.

·Support the development of evidence-based content for workshops, presentations, and resources.

·Assist in evaluating feedback and outcomes from Dignify’s school sessions.

·Maintain organised and accessible research files for the Dignify team.

·Liaise with staff to present findings in clear, accessible formats.

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Ability to summarise complex information clearly and concisely.
• Good written communication and attention to detail.
• Interest in youth wellbeing, education, or safeguarding.
• Comfortable working independently and meeting agreed deadlines.
• Familiarity with academic research tools and referencing (desirable but not essential).

Training / Support

·A full induction to the service will be provided

·You will be required to undertake mandatory e-learning and a menu of optional training will be made available

·Ongoing supervision and support from your line manager

·Travel expenses reimbursed (if applicable).

·Access to events, networking, and training and development opportunities.

Additional Information

·You will be required to undergo a DBS check

·We will require 2 x references

·This role is primarily remote however there may be times where you will be required to attend Team Meetings in Hatfield

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it! 

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in! 

What you will be doing 

• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock. 
• Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till. 
• Researching valuable and vintage stock. 
• Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays. 
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop. 

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers. 

The skills you need 

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering 
• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required 
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others 

What's in it for you 

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered)
• Access to training and development 
• Grow your confidence and meet new people 
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle 
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust 

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. 

Market Researcher Volunteer

Are you curious, do you enjoy exploring ideas, researching trends, delivering insights and eager to make a meaningful impact?

We're looking for a volunteer Market Researcher to support planning across various initiatives and projects by gathering, analysing, and reporting information that informs smart decisions.

Whether you’re gaining experience, switching paths, or simply want to contribute your skills meaningfully, this is your chance to work on purposeful projects in a flexible and rewarding opportunity.

We’re passionate about what we do and value every person who helps us do it better.

Let’s explore something meaningful together.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on topics ranging from markets, industries, customer needs, or competitors, depending on the project.

• Gather and organise information from credible online sources, industry reports, surveys, and interviews

• Analyse findings to identify opportunities, trends, and challenges

• Deliver written reports that are clear, structured, and meaningful to help decision-making in the project

Requirements

• A curious mind with an eye for detail

• Strong skills in online research and information synthesis

• Ability to work independently and manage your own time

• Strong communicator, especially in writing

• Experience in research or reporting is helpful

The role could be entirely remote and is unremunerated but all reasonable expenses will be met.

ABOUT TESYouth
TESYouth (Training, Employment Opportunities & Social Development for Youth) is a NFP social enterprise which focuses on improving the rate of youth employment, through volunteering, interactive and skill-based workshops, work-experience and training programmes. Together with our strategic partners, we collaborate with organisations to provide youth to develop their skills, and to assist in achieving their career aspirations.

Location: Remote (with weekly virtual check-in)
Time Commitment: 2–3 hours per week
Reports to: Charity Operational Director
Contract: Volunteer (unpaid)

Help Us Grow by Using Your Research Skills for Good

Are you an avid reader, a natural researcher, or someone who enjoys deep dives into information online? Would you like to use those skills to support a grassroots environmental charity?

Willowbrook Farm Charity is looking for a dedicated Volunteer Funds & Partnerships Researcher to help us identify potential grant opportunities and partnerships that align with our mission:
Nurturing Sustainable and Equitable Communities through education, biodiversity, and sustainable farming.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Conducting deep online research to identify grant providers, CSR programmes, and funding opportunities that align with our values

• Reading and analysing funder guidelines to assess eligibility, fit, and application requirements

• Creating clear summaries and recommendations based on your findings

• Identifying potential partnerships with organisations, trusts, or foundations that share our ethos

• Meeting with the Director once a week (remotely) to discuss research progress and priorities

This Role Is Ideal For Someone Who:

• Loves researching and reading in-depth content

• Has excellent comprehension and analysis skills

• Can spot opportunities that match specific criteria

• Is detail-oriented, thorough, and curious

• Enjoys working independently with a purpose

• Wants to support sustainability, inclusion, biodiversity, and ethical living

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to contribute directly to the growth and sustainability of a values-led charity

• Experience in nonprofit research and funding development

• A flexible role that fits around your schedule (just 2–3 hours a week)

• Weekly contact and support from our friendly team

• A reference or LinkedIn endorsement after 4+ months of contribution

• The satisfaction of helping secure funding for meaningful, community-based work

The Impact You'll Have

As a Volunteer Funds & Partnerships Researcher, you will play a critical behind-the-scenes role in helping Willowbrook Farm Charity grow and thrive. Your research will directly contribute to:

• Identifying funding that sustains our projects – Your work will uncover grant opportunities that help us deliver hands-on environmental education, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable living.

• Ensuring we apply only to relevant opportunities – By carefully reading funder criteria and guidelines, you’ll save our small team time and resources, allowing us to focus our energy on the best-aligned funders.

• Laying the foundation for long-term partnerships – Your research may open doors to strategic partnerships with trusts, foundations, and organisations that share our values.

• Strengthening our resilience – In our post-pandemic rebuilding phase, every successful grant or partnership helps us remain independent, community-driven, and inclusive.

• Turning curiosity into change – Your love of reading and research will translate into tangible impact, helping create a fairer, greener future for the communities we serve.

You won’t just be gathering data—you’ll be helping connect people, values, and resources, shaping the future of a small charity with a big vision.

About Willowbrook Farm Charity

Based in Oxfordshire, we provide hands-on environmental education, promote sustainable living, and support inclusive access to nature. We work with people from all walks of life—especially those facing barriers to green spaces—and believe in building a fairer, greener future through practical, grassroots action.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it! 

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in! 

What you will be doing 

• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock. 
• Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till. 
• Researching valuable and vintage stock. 
• Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays. 
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop. 

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers. 

The skills you need 

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering 
• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required 
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others 

What's in it for you 

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered 
• Access to training and development 
• Grow your confidence and meet new people 
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle 
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust 

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. 

Are you a dedicated and organised person, passionate about helping others? Join our night-time party and lots of other Volunteers at The MoonWalk Scotland on Saturday 6th September 2025 from Holyrood Park, Edinburgh! Bring your energy and enthusiasm and help us make a difference, by supporting the thousands of Walkers get through the night and raise millions of funds for cancer prevention and research, and for the emotional and physical care of those living with cancer.

We need your help now more than ever…This is going to be a super special year, as it will be our last MoonWalk in Edinburgh before the MoonWalk goes on tour to a new city.

We recruit hundreds of Volunteers to make The MoonWalk a safe and enjoyable event; looking after our Walkers as they take to the streets of Edinburgh overnight, and above all giving them the encouragement they need to complete their epic challenge.

Join in the party atmosphere in Dynamic Earth on Saturday Evening, with help needed from around 6 PM through till Midnight. A busy period when our Walkers and Volunteers arrive en masse, from litter picking, to registering baggage, to handing out Volunteer uniforms or help managing the queues of excited Walkers, there is so much to get involved in!

The Night-Time is where the challenge really gets going for our amazing Walkers. If you like the nightlife, marshalling, or giving out water whilst surrounded by Edinburgh’s famous landmarks, this could be for you! Start times vary between 8 PM and Midnight, depending on your role, and last on average 8 hours. We can also offer site-based roles at MoonWalk Arena throughout the night. Early finishes can of course be requested.

Finally, the early morning team take the helm on Sunday Morning, starting between 5–6 AM until Midday. Watching the sunrise against an Edinburgh skyline is quite a sight to see! This truly is the most testing time for our Walkers… whether you join the route or MoonWalk Arena teams… your kind and motivating words could be all that is needed to get someone across that finish line!

On the night you will be provided with training, a t-shirt, cap and free light refreshments. All roles will develop teamwork and confidence, no matter what you do on the night… so why not bring your friends and family along to share this unique experience!

To join in the fun at this iconic event and Volunteer at the MoonWalk Scotland 2025, we will need you to officially register through our website by visiting Volunteering - The MoonWalk Scotland - Walk The Walk Worldwide.

We will ask you to fill in a short registration form to tell us a bit about yourself and confirm your availability for the event. Please note if you are under the age of 18 at the time of the event, you will need to register with a guardian over 18 who will also be Volunteering.

                      While gaining invaluable experience, practice your passion within real-life scenarios. 

Join a group who aspire to think big, have fun, and create work that stands out. We’re looking for a passionate dedicated individual to join our team, who will play a key role in the growth of our brand messages and visions. The ideal candidate will assist us to conduct research and gather information on various projects.

Responsibilities
Conduct relevant research, gather information on various projects
Write research reports
Working closely with the communications team

Requirements
Good attention to detail.
Strong verbal, written and organisational skills.
Self-starter, dedicated and willing to learn. 
Microsoft Word and Excel skills.

Please note the role is a voluntary position and could be entirely remote. Any incurred reasonable expenses will be paid.
 
ABOUT TESYouth
TESYouth (Training, Employment Opportunities & Social Development for Youth) is a NFP social enterprise which focuses on improving the rate of youth employment, through volunteering, interactive and skill-based workshops, work-experience and training programmes. Together with our strategic partners, we collaborate with organisations to provide youth to develop their skills, and to assist in achieving their career aspirations.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it! 

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in! 

What you will be doing 

• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock. 

• Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till. 

• Researching valuable and vintage stock. 

• Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays. 

• Photographing and listing items for the online shop. 

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers. 

The skills you need 

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering 

• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required 

• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others 

What's in it for you 

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered 

• Access to training and development 

• Grow your confidence and meet new people 

• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle 

• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust 

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. 

As a stock volunteer, you'll be behind-the-scenes, sorting and organising donations to keep our retail spaces well-stocked. Your keen eye for detail and passion for helping others will ensure our customers always have a great choice of items to buy.

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Chatting to customers who drop off donations and other members of the team.
• Preparing stock to be put out on the shop floor, ready for sale.
• Researching valuable and vintage stock.
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
• This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.

Community researchers wanted to help East London Waterworks Park ensure our community-owned park is inclusive and welcoming for all.

East London Waterworks Park is a volunteer-led charity that has won a 2024 New London Architecture award and raised £2m towards buying land from the Department for Education to transform the 14-acre Thames Water Depot on Lea Bridge Road on the border of Waltham Forest and Hackney, into a new biodiverse park with natural swimming ponds, forest schools and community spaces. 

We are looking for community researchers specialised to contribute to our community-led working circle who are working on on a listening project to ensure often underrepresented voices in conservation and environmental projects are heard and centred. 

There is opportunity to lead on projects and facilitate the direction of the working circle.

The Inclusivity Circle currently meets monthly on a Wednesday evening on Google Meet and spends voluntary time outside of the meeting completing agreed tasks remotely.

While your experienced research skills are crucial, we also value your ability to engage with the community and build partnerships. Experience in conducting community-based research or working with community organisations is important. A strong understanding of community dynamics and the ability to collaborate effectively will be invaluable in ensuring your research findings are relevant and impactful. Our roles are quite flexible. We hope that people bring radical imagination, peace with nature, and courageous inclusiveness to the role. 

Contribute to the creation of a new biodiverse community-owned park with free access natural swimming ponds. Your research expertise will be vital in shaping our new biodiverse park. By conducting listening research on community needs, and potential park uses, you'll help us create a sustainable and inclusive space. Your findings will inform our design, programming, and outreach efforts, ensuring the park meets the needs of our community and contributes to biodiversity conservation.

OVERVIEW

Title: Volunteer Opportunity: Leadership Training Programs Department

Reports to: Director, Leadership Training Programs

Classification: Volunteer

ABOUT WOMEN’S WORLD BANKING 

About 1 billion women remain excluded from the formal financial system. Women’s World Banking researches, designs, and invests in financial solutions, institutions, and policy environments in emerging markets to create greater economic security and prosperity for women, their families, and their communities. 

The Women’s World Banking Institute is a hub for research, training, and capacity-building dedicated to advancing women’s financial inclusion and economic empowerment worldwide. Through research, learning opportunities, and convenings, we help equip financial service providers, policymakers, and partners with insights and tools to take evidence-based action. 

VOLUNTEERING WITH US 

We welcome volunteers who are interested in supporting our Leadership Training Programs. Volunteers may be invited to contribute in areas such as maintaining alumni engagement lists, helping with session planning, or providing general support to ongoing knowledge-sharing efforts. This is a flexible, short-term opportunity to gain exposure to the work of an international non-profit organization while contributing to initiatives that promote women’s financial inclusion and leadership development.

POSSIBLE VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES 

Volunteers may be involved in one or more of the following types of activities, depending on their skills and interests: 

• Collecting and organizing information related to financial inclusion and leadership training. 
• Assisting with light research on leadership trends, case studies, or best practices. 
• Helping to organize and maintain internal knowledge resources. 
• Contributing ideas to strengthen participant engagement in training programs. 

HOW TO EXPRESS INTEREST 

Please share the following: 

• A short statement of interest describing why you’d like to volunteer with us and your general availability. 
• Your resume or brief overview of relevant background. 
• Contact information for one or two references. 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning September 15, 2025. 

Please note: This is an unpaid volunteer role and is not considered employment. Participation is entirely voluntary and does not create an employment relationship with Women’s World Banking. 

Timeframe: Flexible (any 3-month period)