Board member volunteer roles

Do you believe in a future where no animal suffers for science? 

Do you have spare time you can volunteer to make a difference to the lives of animals and humans? 

If so, we would love you to consider being one of our new trustees.

At Replacing Animal Research, we’ve been working for over half a century to replace the use of animals in research. We have significantly contributed to the development, and uptake, of non-animal methods by:

• Empowering scientists with our educational opportunities.
• Funding exciting research aimed at replacing animals and improving human healthcare.
• Collaborating with policymakers to ensure more rigorous policy on the use of animals in science. 

Our mission is to ensure scientists use non-animal approaches in biomedical research and testing. It’s a better future for animals and humans. For us to achieve this, we need to ensure that Replacing Animal Research is a resilient organisation with sufficient skills, support, and income to continue its work in the long term. Our trustees are critical to the future of the organisation. 

We are currently seeking more trustees to strengthen our board by providing strategic and governance support. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals with an interest or experience in scientific and medical research and testing and the development of non-animal methods. We’d also be interested in hearing from anyone passionate about eliminating animal use in research. We encourage applications from all people regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief or race. We are looking for trustees who can demonstrate:

A commitment to our purpose and aims and the strategic vision to support the Replacing Animal Research's future development.

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to support the charity. (Please see below for more details on the time commitment).
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Sound, independent judgement and the ability to challenge constructively.
• The ability to work effectively as a member of a team and make decisions for the good of the charity.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

A full induction is provided for new trustees as well as ongoing CPD opportunities and support. The role of trustee requires an annual time commitment of around 8 working days which works out around 5 hours per month. This includes:

• Preparation for and attendance at 6 general board meetings, which are held remotely.
• Preparation for and attendance at sub-committee meetings as appropriate.
• Between meetings, trustees may be asked to contribute to discussions via email or ad hoc telephone conferences on specific issues.
• Trustees may be asked to sit on or contribute to other project groups or activities from time to time.
• Attendance at 1 or 2 in-person board away days.

For more detailed information on being a trustee for Replacing Animal Research please take a look at our Trustee Role Description.

To apply for this opportunity please do so via Charity Job and submit your CV and a supporting cover letter. Please detail why you are interested in the role and how you can fulfil the role requirements and be an ambassador for Replacing Animal Research. Please ensure you read our Trustee Role Description and refer to this in your application.

Thank you for your interest in working with Replacing Animal Research and we look forward to hearing from you.

Benefits

The role of trustee is voluntary but travel and subsistence expenses are covered as required.

Notes

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview in the week of 23/06/2025 and successful candidates will be invited to attend the next Replacing Animal Research board meeting as an observer on 17/07/2025. Full details will be given to candidates nearer the time.

Role: Leeds Hospitals Charity Trustee (voluntary)

Application Deadline: Monday 30th June 2025

Meet the Executive Team and Board of Trustees: May 22nd 2025 3.30pm – 6.00pm

Interviews to take place: Wednesday 23rd July 2025

Location: Hybrid  

About Leeds Hospitals Charity

Leeds Hospitals Charity is the charity partner of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. We champion, support and gives thanks to our NHS, bringing together thousands of donors so we can make a real difference to the people and patients of Yorkshire. We do this by funding life-saving equipment, treatments, research into rare diseases and home comforts – whatever will make the biggest impact to the people who need it most.

We are passionate about healthcare and about making our hospitals amazing – our vision is to make Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust to be the best hospital, in the healthiest city in the UK.

Each year we award grants of around £4 million to support the innovative work of our hospitals. Our most recent fundraising appeal, for the Rob Burrow Centre for MND, will see a brand new, purpose-built care centre be opened at Seacroft Hospital in late 2025, transforming care for patients with motor neurone disease and their families.

People are central to everything we do here and we pride ourselves on Leeds Hospitals Charity being an organisation that is a friendly, diverse and welcoming place to work. Our core values of ‘together, transparent and transform’ underpin all of our work and ensures that we are impact driven, working hard to benefit patients, families and NHS staff.

Our Trustees

Leeds Hospitals Charity (Registered charity no. 1170369). has a fully independent Board of Trustees, who are also appointed as Directors of Leeds Hospitals Charity (Company Number 10492128), which is incorporated under the Companies Act 2006 as a private company. We also have a separate trading subsidiary, LHC Enterprise Limited (Company Number 13438357), with its own Directors.

The Board of Trustees currently comprises 12 Trustees; the Chair is Dr Yvette Oade OBE, who is in her second three-year term as a Trustee and her second year as Chair of the Charity.

The Role

Leeds Hospitals Charity is looking to appoint up to four new Trustees to enhance the Board’s skills and expertise to help shape and grow the Charity to provide the best support to our NHS.

The successful candidates may have interest and insight into the issues facing health-related charities and they may also have experience as a Trustee, or in a similar role in another context, but neither of these are essential.

Trustees use their knowledge and experience to make a strategic and principled contribution to the work of the Charity, encouraging innovation and bringing to bear their analytical skills. A willingness to be challenging but constructive, and an ability to engage with detail, are essential for this role.

We are seeking candidates with a wide range of relevant skills and experience but are particularly interested in those candidates with experience in the following sectors:

· Accountancy or audit

· Legal

· Academic or health

· Community or charity

Leeds Hospitals Charity strongly believes that greater diversity improves performance and we aim to attract talented people to reflect the communities with which we work. We strongly encourage applications from groups which are under-represented on our existing Board, including, in particular, candidates with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.

Although they are volunteers, our Trustees have independent control over, and legal responsibility for the charity’s management and administration. Trusteeship can be rewarding for many reasons, from a sense of making a difference to the charitable cause, to new experiences and relationships.

Commitment

This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. Trustees are expected to be able to commit around 12 days a year, for committee meetings, Board meetings and development days.

We welcome candidates from a range of backgrounds and flexibility is offered to those candidates who may have caring responsibilities.

We are looking for someone who will:

· Support and provide advice on the Charity’s purpose, vision, goals, and activities.

· Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

· Oversee our financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Provide support and challenge to the Charity’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority

· Keep abreast of changes in the Charity’s operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of the Charity’s own governance.

· Attend meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of the Charity’s objects, aims and reputation by utilising your skills, expertise, knowledge, and contacts.

The successful person will:

· Bring relevant experience from their own professional sector, with some additional knowledge of the third sector.

· Be constructively challenging and attentive to detail.

· Be able to use their independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to protect the Charity’s best interests.

· Have an interest in health-related charity issues or prior Trustee experience (although these are not essential)

How to apply:

Applications should consist of a full Curriculum Vitae detailing experience and relevant qualifications, accompanied by a covering letter describing briefly how candidates meet the recruitment criteria, why the appointment is of interest and what they believe they can bring to the role. If candidates wish, these may be reflected in a video (no more than three minutes long) rather than in writing.

Applications should be emailed to Helen McDougall by the closing date. Email details can be found in the Trustee Information Pack on our website. Interested candidates are also welcome to visit the Charity’s offices, at Leeds General Infirmary, on 22nd May 2025, to find out more about the role and meet the Executive Team in advance of the closing date. To arrange a time to drop in, please email Helen McDougall.

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by an interview panel of Trustees and the Chief Executive of the Charity.

For more information about the position and the charity, please visit Leeds Hospitals Charity's website and click on Join the Team.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we commit to offering all applicants who consider themselves to have a disability an interview if they demonstrate they possess the essential skills and experience required for the role. Please advise on your covering letter if you consider yourself to have a disability.

Thank you for taking the time to apply for our position. We appreciate your interest in Leeds Hospitals Charity. If your application is selected to continue in the interview process, a member of the Team will be in contact with you.

Join Manor Gardens Welfare Trust (MGWT) as a Trustee and play a pivotal role in empowering communities to thrive. Help us deliver innovative, culturally competent services tackling inequalities and improving lives across Islington and beyond.

MGWT has been at the heart of community support since 1913, continuously evolving to meet contemporary challenges. Our dynamic hub in Upper Holloway supports over 2,600 people annually, promoting health, wellbeing, and social inclusion among diverse, underserved communities. Our services include multilingual advocacy, mental health support and therapy services, youth service provision as well as chairing Islington's award-winning Food Partnership working for a sustainable food system in the borough. 

Although MGWT is a local charity, we have a notable track record of innovation and wider impact. We pioneered the first LGBTQ+ youth group in Europe and launched the UK's first specialist psychotherapy service for survivors of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Our groundbreaking work continues to inform practices and policies at both local and national levels.

We are particularly seeking trustees with skills in fundraising (including expertise in securing grants from trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, statutory funding, legacies, and major gifts), Human Resources, and communications. Knowledge, experience, and a thorough understanding of the charity sector are essential, alongside a demonstrable commitment to our values. Previous board experience is desirable but not essential. We particularly welcome candidates with lived experience of the issues we are seeking to address, including socioeconomic inequality, mental health, and the asylum process. 

Trustees commit roughly 6 hours monthly, guiding strategic direction, ensuring effective governance, promoting equality and inclusion, and serving as ambassadors for MGWT’s vital work.

Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust

Closing Date: 30th June. Based: Regular meetings in Welshpool office and on-line

Are you a wise owl? A busy bee? An eager beaver? Do you have hawk eyes? If so, you might be just who we’re looking for to join our Trustees team and help us champion local wildlife.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and confident person to join our Board of Trustees.  

Our Trustees are the guardians of our charity, working together to ensure Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust fulfils its charitable activities and delivers on its vision, mission and values. They do this by steering its direction and overseeing the work of our CEO and staff. Our Trustees come together regularly to receive a report from the CEO, to discuss and agree issues of strategic importance and to ensure the charity is being run effectively. Meetings are held as hybrid sessions so Trustees can attend remotely, or in-person at our Welshpool headquarters

Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust was founded in 1982 and is part of The Wildlife Trusts federation and a corporate member of the Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts.  We are the county's leading nature conservation organisation. Our mission is to sustain biodiversity and encourage people to engage with their environment by becoming active and influential wildlife champions. Our vision is of people close to nature with land and seas rich in wildlife. We want to ensure that every person has the opportunity to experience wildlife in their daily lives.

Further details:  Recruitment Pack

Your background might be within a federated charity operating nationally or globally; you might work within a not-for-profit which delivers its impact through a network model or membership body; or you might operate in a corporate setting, perhaps operating franchises to reach your customers.

You will instinctively understand what it is to lead a like-minded movement of organisations, who together are far more than the sum of their parts.

You will be ready to get stuck into understanding what makes our local services tick and how best we can help them to have the voice, capacity and impact to change the world for unpaid carers.

More generally, we’re looking for a strategic, forward-thinking leader, someone who can challenge and champion our direction and bring fresh ideas. Your insight could shape where we go next and help steer how we develop our network relationships and local delivery.

If you love collaborating with ambitious teams, challenging the status quo and finding smart, inventive ways to make an impact – this could be the perfect role for you.

*About Us:**
The 25th St. Marks Scout Group is dedicated to providing young people with opportunities for adventure, learning, and personal development. We are part of the global Scouting movement, committed to helping young people achieve their full potential.

**Role Overview:**
The Chairperson will lead the Executive Committee, ensuring the effective governance and strategic direction of the 25th St. Marks Scout Group. This role is crucial in supporting the Group Scout Leader and ensuring the group meets its objectives.

**Key Responsibilities:**
- **Leadership:** Provide leadership to the Executive Committee, ensuring all members are motivated and working towards the group's goals.
- **Governance:** Ensure the group operates within its constitution and complies with relevant legislation and policies.
- **Strategic Planning:** Develop and oversee the implementation of the group's strategic plan.
- **Meetings:** Chair Executive Committee meetings, ensuring they are productive and decisions are made in the best interest of the group.
- **Support:** Work closely with the Group Scout Leader to support the delivery of a high-quality program for young people.
- **Representation:** Represent the group at district and county meetings, and act as an ambassador for the group within the community.
- **Fundraising:** Oversee fundraising activities and ensure the group has the necessary resources to operate effectively.
-Communication:

Ensure effective communication within the group and with external stakeholders.

Skills and Experience:

Leadership:

Proven leadership skills and experience in a similar role.

Communication:

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Organization:

Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Commitment:

 A commitment to the values and principles of Scouting.

Teamwork: 

Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Fundraising:

Experience in fundraising and resource management is desirable.

Time Commitment:

This is a volunteer position requiring a commitment of up to 4 meetings per year, including attendance at events to promote the group

**How to Apply:**
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their suitability for the role of Chairperson person and trustee 

About the role

The Island Lead Volunteer is a key volunteer role within local Scouting with responsibility for providing outstanding leadership and support for the Groups on the Island. The primary focus for the Island Lead Volunteer is to ensure that Scouting is able to reach every young person on Jersey; open to all regardless of faith, colour or social background, because we believe Scouting has the ability to change lives. This is achieved by leading the team of Group Lead Volunteers, and other Island volunteers as well as working with the Growth & Communities Teams (employed staff) to provide enough places to meet the demand for Scouting, and by ensuring that every youth member has access to a high-quality balanced programme that is challenging, relevant and rewarding.

Key tasks

• Ensure that every Squirrel Drey, Beaver Scout Colony, Cub Scout Pack, Scout Troop, Explorer Scout Unit and Scout Network within the Island is able to deliver a high-quality programme which is challenging, relevant and rewarding for every young person.
• Provide proactive line management, including coaching, mentoring and guidance to Group Lead Volunteers as well as other adult volunteers on the Island who directly report to you including setting objectives for their work, holding regular one-to-one meetings and reviews.
• Build and maintain a sense of Island team by holding regular team meetings with the Group Lead Volunteers, Island Chair, Island team Members and other appropriate volunteers within
  your Island team to collaborate and provide peer support.
• Lead a safe, open and transparent culture around keeping young people and adults safe through our Yellow Card and key policies.
  Ensure the timely recruitment and appointment of new Group Lead Volunteers where required and ensuring that interim arrangements are put in place for any vacant posts.
• Together with the Group Lead Volunteers, agree the priorities for the Island and produce a plan to deliver these to meet The Scout Association’s vision and strategic objectives.
• Ensure that problems within the Island are resolved so that an effective volunteering culture is encouraged and Group Lead Volunteers feel supported to deal with challenging issues, including complaints in a timely manner.
• Ensure that the Island has an adequate team of supported and appropriate adults working effectively together and with others to meet the Scouting needs of the area.
• Ensure that problems within the Island are resolved so that excellent Scouting is provided to young people on the Island.
• Act as an ex-officio trustee as a member of the Island Trustee Board, and an ex-officio member of the Council of The Scout Association.
• Play an active part within the Regional Team by joining short MS Teams calls and in person meetings led by the Regional Lead Volunteer and twice yearly by Team England for all County Lead Volunteers to contribute to the development of Scouting within England as part of the Headquarters team.

Trustee – Little London Arts

Trustee Recruitment Information Pack

Background

Many thanks for requesting this information pack and your potential interest in becoming a trustee of what is currently called Little London Arts (LLA).

We were established in 2001 and have almost 25 years’ experience in organising cultural, social, learning and wellbeing opportunities with people who face a range of barriers, including those relating to older adulthood.

Our main current programme is based on the Cultural & Social Outings project. We provide regular trips and activities throughout the year across different environments, indoors and out.  They are developed in response to ongoing feedback from participants and take into account the specific needs, interests and contributions of those who attend. Some people are active in discussions and planning, while others are happy to just look forward to a day out. Either way, the programme has significant impact on health and wellbeing, with links to social prescribing and accessing nature.

With many of our members living in the inner-city, we feel it is important to enable people to have access to a wide range of experiences, especially beyond urban areas. Trips to the Yorkshire Dales or North York Moors, for example, form an important aspect of our programme, as do visits to places of architectural and/or heritage significance, whether on our doorstep or further afield.  This enables people to explore and engage with culture in the widest sense, learn about wildlife and ecology, or social history, as well as simply enjoying the views and fresh air. Many of our visits enable and encourage people to be active participants rather than mere observers.  They may include a talk, tour, or practical workshop, encouraging the development of new skills and interests, and knowledge sharing.

Trustee Recruitment

LLA is currently a constituted community organisation with a small management committee of three members.  We have one part-time member of staff who is our Project Developer and Co-ordinator.   We have an annual turnover of approximately £30,000 with ongoing plans to both maintain and grow our services.

In order to provide greater security, and open up access to further funding, we are in the process of registering as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).   This means that we need to recruit a board of trustees, initially 4-6 people, who will be responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity and for its financial health.  We also need to change our name because we now work with people from across the city of Leeds, and no longer base our activities in Little London, where we were founded.  

The board is likely to meet once a quarter for 1-2 hours for a formal trustees meeting where we will review our financial and operational performance and discuss any matters of importance. Meetings will be a mixture of face-to-face, and online.  We also encourage trustees to support our work between meetings perhaps by joining one or more of the activities, being an ambassador for a particular area of our work such as marketing or finance for instance or using your skills and experience in some other way.  

Broadly we are looking for trustees who: 

• Have a commitment to our aims, objectives and ambitions
• Can devote the necessary time to being a trustee  
• Possess good judgement and independence of mind
• Are willing to work collectively as part of a group and want to engage in constructive debate to reach a conclusion 

In return we will offer you the opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of local people. 

If you are interested in finding out more, please email us for a copy of our information pack. The deadline for receipt of applications is 12 noon on Friday 9th May 2025.  

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

Voluntary Action North Somerset are seeking a new Trustee

Location: Weston Super Mare

Time Commitment: c.6-12hrs per month

Remuneration: This is a voluntary, unremunerated role. VANS will reimburse its Trustees for reasonable expenses incurred in carrying out their duties.

Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) is an independent charity that has championed the non-profit sector across North Somerset for over 27 years. They are dedicated to creating a connected, inclusive, and thriving community for all. ​

VANS’ central mission, primarily but not exclusively in North Somerset, is to champion, support and strengthen the role of the non-profit sector, including voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise organisations; to establish projects that address the needs of the people in our communities; and to strive to grow this mission on a sustainable, long-term basis.

The key areas of work for the team are:

· Domestic Abuse Recovery Service (DARS). 

· Children & Young People

· Ageing Well

· Equality, Diversity and Physical Activity

· Volunteering

· Consultancy and specialised projects/programmes

Experience:

They are looking for people with general management experience, a commitment to the non-profit sector and a demonstrable ability to work effectively as part of a team, combined with integrity and strategic vision, and able to make the time commitment required to make a real difference, as outlined above.

Prior experience of voluntary, non-executive or Trustee work, while not essential, would be of interest and specific areas of interest include:

· Finance

· Human Resources

· Business/charity connections

· IT/Digital Systems management.

Completed applications should be sent by email FAO Sandy Hinks quoting Ref to:MC2605 

Closing date for applications: 6th July 2025

Volunteer Role Profile

Volunteer Role: Branch Trustee

Volunteer Manager: Alongside other local Branch Trustees

Where you will be based: Community

Why we want you

We are the RSPCA and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. Our volunteers are incredible, they play an essential role in helping us carry out our important animal welfare work every day.

As a trustee of a branch you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals. We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with a variety of experience and skills to draw on, whether these have been formed through life or work situations.

You'll be passionate about animal welfare and alongside other trustees, will manage the affairs of a local RSPCA Branch to promote and provide animal welfare within the branch area.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary dependent on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties such as the role of chairman, treasurer or secretary.

Trustees are elected for a 12 month term each year.

For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee, and to ensure it’s the right decision for you, we recommend visiting the YouGov website

What you will be doing

• Familiarising yourself with and supporting the aims and policies of the RSPCA
• Familiarising yourself with the branch rules and following them at all times
• Working with your fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly acting in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Ensuring the branch meets all the minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS). Where they are not met, working with national RSPCA staff to meet them as soon as practicably possible
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Support Specialist (BSS), writing, adopting, monitoring and reviewing a branch development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch
• Actively participating in branch committee meetings and attending the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Having an awareness of the outcomes of regional board meetings and supporting regional initiatives.
• Actively promoting and advertising to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers.
• Welcoming new trustees and volunteers to the branch.

The skills you need

• Aged 18 or over
• A current member of the RSPCA (please see RSPCA website for details on how to become a member)
• Able to work with people from all backgrounds and have good interpersonal skills
• Specific skills such as finance, legal, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful to help ensure we have a sound and robust business model and long term strategic development plan, however they are not essential.
• Commitment, common sense and the ability to be objective is vital
• Creativity, innovation. A person who can bring different experiences and fresh perspectives to the Board and help put those ideas into action

What's in it for you

• Meet like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for animal welfare
• Use your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare
• You will be volunteering at the heart of the local community
• Full training via our trustee course
• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to additional training provided by the relevant branch

Disclaimer

Before you can start volunteering you’ll need to complete our simple online Health & Safety course and any associated training required for your role.

New RSPCA trustees are provided with a link to our intranet to view our Guidance for Branch Trustees and are also asked to attend a training course which provides information and guidance about a trustee’s role and responsibilities. Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and that they accept the post.

Tetanus is a life threatening bacterial disease caused by an infection in an open wound. All volunteers must be suitably protected. We recommend that volunteers check their vaccination history with their GP. If a volunteer has not had the required doses, the GP should offer them free of charge as part of the UK vaccination schedule.

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

BRANCH TRUSTEE – HR & EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations (RSPCA Chatham)

This is an exciting opportunity to pass on your human resources and employee relations expertise whilst helping the RSPCA; promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things.

Overview of the Branch Trustee - HR & Employee Relations

As a HR & Employee Relations expert you would be supporting the branch by helping them maintain and develop staff throughout the organisation. You would play a key role in advising Trustees on the long-term and strategic direction of human resources and contributing towards policy setting.

About the RSPCA

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

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

The RSPCA Medway West Branch

The RSPCA Medway West Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA, we are currently going through the process of changing our status to CIO.

The main activities of our Branch are:

•  Helping people on benefits and low-income to afford veterinary bill.
•  Providing support for people to neuter their animals.
•  Providing support to the inspectorate to help get animals treated.
• Access to a pet food bank, working alongside local human foodbanks.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

•  Advise Trustees on the long-term vision and strategic direction for investment in human resources.
• Support the Branch grow, maintain, and develop staff throughout the organisation.
• Contribute to HR policy setting, strategic direction, goal and target setting, and evaluate performance against targets, budgets, plans and charitable objectives.
•  Ensure that HR activities and interventions are linked to the RSPCA Medway West Branches charitable objectives and complement the company culture.
•  Advise on and help improve management of HR.
•  Ensure the Board of Trustees properly remunerates staff, reviewing and rewarding performance and development opportunities.
• To work with the Branch Manager to review current HR management arrangements and provide guidance on HR strategy and short and long-term direction.
• Receive progress reports on HR and any recurring staffing issues.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

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

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

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

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

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

Practical considerations

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

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch!

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

Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? Trustees manage the affairs of our local RSPCA Branch to promote and provide animal welfare within the branch area. 

We are the Surrey East Branch of the RSPCA, and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. 

Main activities: 

• To be familiar with and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA. 

• To be familiar with our branch rules and follow them at all times. 

• To work with your fellow trustees and branch officers to jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of our branch and the RSPCA. 

• To ensure the branch meets all the minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS). Where they are not met, work with national RSPCA staff to meet the standard as soon as practicable. 

• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch support specialist (BSS), to write, adopt, monitor and review a branch development plan setting out the short and long-term aims of our branch. 

• To actively participate in branch committee meetings and attend the branch annual general meeting, and regional conference. 

• To be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives. 

• To attend the trustee training course. 

• To actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers. 

• To welcome new trustees and volunteers to the branch. 

About the RSPCA

We’re proud to be the oldest welfare charity in existence

• We were the first to introduce a law to protect animals and we work hard to ensure that all animals can live a life free from pain and suffering. 

• Through our campaigns we raise standards of care and awareness of issues for the animals who have no voice. We push for laws to be changed, improving the welfare of animals on farms, in research labs, in the wild, in paddocks or in our homes. 

• Through investigations and prosecutions, we stand up to those who deliberately harm animals to send out a clear message - we will not tolerate animal abuse. 

• Our highly trained officers tackle neglect and cruelty at every level and are working hard to stamp out large-scale serious, organised and commercial animal cruelty. 

• We believe every animal has the right to be counted as an individual. Animals can rely on us to rescue them when they need us most. To rehabilitate them wherever possible, provide them with the very best veterinary care and to find them new homes, either through rehoming or release.

What are we looking for? 

• Most people aged 18 or over are eligible to become a trustee. You will need to become a member of the RSPCA. Good interpersonal skills are important. You do not need to be an expert, although commitment, common sense and the ability to be objective is vital. 

• Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, and awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful, but not essential. 

• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and that they accept the post. 

• In addition to our standard declaration of willingness, trustees also need to complete a declaration from the Charity Commission and read their guidance for individuals on who can’t be a trustee or senior manager of a charity. 

What can we offer you? 

• It’s a great way to meet like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for animal welfare. 

• You will have the opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals. 

• New RSPCA trustees are provided with a document “Trustees handbook” and asked to attend a training course which provides information and guidance about a trustee’s role and responsibilities. 

• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch. 

• Volunteer at the heart of the local community. 

Are you a dedicated professional with a heart for healing, nature, and community? The Therapy Garden is seeking exceptional individuals with expertise in Horticulture or Fundraising to join our team of Trustees.

About Us: The Therapy Garden is a horticulture and education charity that uses gardening to generate positive change. We work with adults and teenagers with learning difficulties, physical disabilities and mental health challenges and offer school-age teenagers interventional education opportunities.

Based in the village of Normandy, Surrey, the charity was established in 1998 by a local resident, with the aim of using the healing power of horticulture to connect with vulnerable members of our community.

Your Role as a Trustee: As a Trustee, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping and supporting the future of The Therapy Garden. Your expertise in Horticulture or Fundraising will be vital as we continue to flourish and offer our services to a growing community.

Responsibilities include:

• Horticultural Knowledge: Contribute insights to enhance our garden’s beauty, sustainability, and therapeutic potential

Requirements:

• Horticulturalists: Expertise in horticulture, landscape design or similar fields to enrich our garden’s vitality.

Why join us:

• Meaningful Impact: Make a direct impact on individuals seeking healing and rejuvenation through the power of nature
• Collaborative Environment: Collaborate with a passionate team that shares your commitment to well-being and community

• Personal Growth: Enhance your leadership skills and expertise by being part of a dynamic team dedicated to making positive change.

  Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds.

  If you’re ready to align your expertise with a purpose-driven cause, The Therapy Garden invites you to apply as a Trustee. Together, we can cultivate well-being, nurture growth, and provide solace to those in need.

  Transform lives through nature.  Apply now to become a Trustee at The Therapy Garden.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Volunteer positions currently available in Sunderland

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:

· Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support

· Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes

· Raise concerns

· Keep detailed notes and records

· Make a real difference to someone’s life

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.

To find out more click “Apply Now”.