Charity support volunteer roles

Who We Are 
Featherstone Rovers Foundation is the official charity of Featherstone Rovers RLFC, located in the heart of the former mining town of Featherstone. Through the power of sport and the Featherstone Rovers brand, we inspire and support individuals and communities across Featherstone, the Five Towns area, and the wider Wakefield District to lead healthier, happier, and more active lives.

In 2024 alone, we worked with over 20,000 people through projects aligned with our five core themes: 

1. Physical Activity 

1. Learning 

1. Social Inclusion 

1. Health and Wellbeing 

1. Heritage and Arts 

As a Community Anchor, we play a central role in supporting the local area and are part of initiatives addressing health inequalities and building sustainable, thriving communities. 

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Our Vision for Growth 
To continue expanding our services and maximizing our impact, we’re seeking dedicated trustees to join our board. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of a charity at the heart of the Featherstone community. 

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Who We’re Looking For 
We are keen to hear from individuals who share our passion and have expertise in areas such as: 

• Charity governance 

• Health, wellbeing, and tackling inequalities 

• Corporate fundraising, and resource development 

• Inclusion, diversity, and community engagement 

• Marketing, communications, and public relations 

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We value lived experience and fresh perspectives, so even if you haven’t been a trustee before, we encourage you to apply if you’re enthusiastic about making a difference.

Your Role as a Trustee 

• Provide strategic guidance to ensure we deliver our vision effectively. 

• Support the foundation in its governance, growth, and sustainability. 

• Attend quarterly board meetings and occasional events or sub-committee sessions. 

• Be an ambassador for the Foundation within the community and beyond.

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What You’ll Gain 
This voluntary position offers a chance to: 

• Make a meaningful impact in your local community. 

• Develop your skills and gain experience in charity governance. 

• Work alongside a passionate and dedicated team. 

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How to Apply 
If you’re ready to help us expand our services and create lasting change, please send your CV and a short statement (up to 500 words) explaining why you’d like to join our board and the skills you bring to the role. 

Submit your application by 13th December 2024. 

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences. 

Help us continue to build a healthier, happier, and more active Featherstone. Join our board and be part of something special!

A message from our Chair of Trustees – Andrew Carter

Thank you for your interest in joining the team at Off The Record South East Hampshire (OTR).

This recruitment pack provides the information you need to apply to be a Trustee including:

• Details of our vision, mission and values.

• Information about the work we do, our impact and our future plans

• An overview of our organisational structure

• Information about the role and expectations of our trustees

If you would like any further information about the role before applying, please advise in your cover letter and she can arrange an informal chat with me.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Best wishes,

Andrew

Chair of Trustees

OTR

A message from our CEO: Corniche Plumridge

As the chief executive,  my role and the trustees is all about teamwork and support. I'm here to bring Off The Record’s strategic vision to life by sharing accurate and timely information, making sure they have what they need to make great decisions. In return, the trustees provide valuable guidance and oversight, helping us stay on track with our organisation's mission.

ADVERT

Are you passionate about young people's wellbeing?

Off The Record (OTR) are looking for new trustees to join our Board of Trustees.

Our vision is to support young people’s mental health to fulfil their potential for a brighter future.

We believe that young people should have more control and influence in how services for them are managed and changed, by being part of the organisation that develops the services that support their community.

We particularly want to attract applications from young people, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and disabled, and people of colour, because they are under-represented in our Trustee team.

Off The Record (OTR) is an independent charity based in the Havant Borough. We have been supporting young people and their families in Southeast Hampshire and surrounding areas since 1977.

We offer free 1-2-1 and family counselling, group work services for those 11 to 25 and support for their families, we deliver a young carer programme to young people ages 8 to 25.

This is an opportunity to really make a difference to the lives of young people in our community!

We are actively seeking trustees from all areas of life,

You will play a crucial role in guiding the governance of OTR. You will work collaboratively with other members of the Board of Trustees to ensure effective management and sustainability of our charity.

This is an unpaid voluntary position, requiring a commitment of approximately 4-6 hours per month. 

Our Trustee board meet every month; in-person bi-monthly for 2 hours with the months in between a shorter 1-hour online meeting. On occasion there will ad-hoc meeting to meet the needs of the organisation and to carry out the trustee role.

OTR embraces equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

Responsibilities:

· Provide strategic guidance and expertise to support Off The Record's vision and mission.

· Actively participate in board meetings, contributing ideas, insights, and constructive feedback.

• Assist in the development and provide oversight of operational policies, procedures, and initiatives to further the organisation's objectives.
• Help oversee the governance of the charity in accordance with the Charity Commission’s published guidelines. 

· Promote the Charity’s work and values within your networks and wider communities.

· Collaborate with fellow trustees, staff, and volunteers to ensure the smooth running of the charity's operations.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

The statutory duties of a trustee

· To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

· To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document

· To ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objective

· To contribute actively to the board of trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

· To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.

· To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation

· To ensure the financial stability of the organisation

· To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity's funds

· To observe and follow the latest version of the Charity Commission Guidance

Other duties

· Scrutinising board papers

· Leading discussions

· Providing guidance on new initiatives

· Other issues in which the trustee has special expertise

· Participating in working groups outside of Board meetings

Trustee person specification

 · Commitment to the organisation

· Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort – which could be several hours per week to keep up with incoming emails and correspondence, Monthly Trustee meetings and the Annual General Meeting.

 · Strategic vision

· Good, independent judgement

· Ability to think creatively

· Willingness to speak their mind

· Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship

· Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

Qualifications and Skills:

· A genuine interest in the well-being and mental health of young people.

· Previous experience as a trustee or in a similar governance role would be advantageous but not essential.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

· Knowledge and understanding of the voluntary sector and charity governance or willingness to learn.

• Ability to promote the Charity’s work and values within your networks and wider communities.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: safeguarding, counselling, mental health, fundraising, finance, marketing, law, or HR would be desirable (but not essential).

Benefits:

· The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people through Off The Record (OTR).

· Gain valuable experience and develop your skills in a governance role within a charity.

· Expand your professional network and collaborate with like-minded individuals.

· Gain satisfaction from being part of a dedicated team working towards a common goal. 

About us

You will be joining the charity at an exciting time.

OTR has been part of our community since 1977, our purpose has remained the same throughout, to

support young people’s mental health to fulfil their potential for a brighter future, however during this

time we have evolved, expanded and developed our services. We put young people at the heart of what

we do, by integrating youth voice into our services we are continuously evolving to meet current needs

of young people and their families.

You will be joining an amazing and established team.

A staff of 16 cover all bases, with an established admin and front-line group work and Young Carer

teams, and leadership team that oversee admin, therapeutic and youth services, business support,

volunteers, finance, safeguarding and clinical supervision. Our dedicated counsellors and volunteers

deliver the therapeutic services and information and support calls. Our trustees meet every month,

alternating between formal board meetings, and trustee ongoing development meetings.

You will be joining a safe and respected service, that is long standing and held dearly by our

local community.

Our policy and procedures ensure a high standard of operational and clinical governance across the

organisation, that is brought to life with an excellent induction and training programme, and varied and

topical CPD opportunities throughout the year. We are always reminded of our legacy by the continued

support from local community groups and businesses because of the difference our support made to

them or someone they care about.

You will be joining an inclusive and caring culture.

If you feel you have the expertise,please apply with the following:

· A full CV

· A covering letter detailing all of the below:

o What skills/knowledge will you be bringing

o Explanation of any gaps in your CV

Successful applicants will be invited for an informal chat with the chair of trustee and CEO prior to an interview being arranged.

As part of our commitment to safe recruitment, all appointments are subject to Enhanced DBS with

Barred List checks and references will be taken up.

OTR embraces equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that

represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our

work will be.

Please advise us of any requirements to support your application to us.

Details:

· Hours; 4-6 per month

· Location: Online and in person

· Application deadline: Ongoing

Want to support a good cause?

We offer:

· A team that really cares, supports and champions one another.

· Friendly environment and practices.

· Access to training.

· Social events to spend time with the team and have some fun!

Job description

We need dedicated volunteers to work at our Hampstead store. If you have a passion for fashion (especially second-hand), amazing customer service skills and you are keen to learn new skills, then this opportunity is for you. As a volunteer you will also be involved in receiving, sorting, steaming, and pricing our lovely donations, serving at the till, and using your creativity to create displays around the shop. Training will be provided. As a volunteer, you will be helping to raise money for the Octavia Foundation and support the work we do in the local community.

About Octavia Foundation Shops

We are Octavia. Founded by the Victorian philanthropist Octavia Hill in the 1860s, our work today covers three areas: homes, support, and care. We provide Londoners with quality, affordable housing, allowing many people to remain in the city who otherwise would have been priced out. We empower people, connecting them with opportunities for a better life. And we look after the elderly and vulnerable, with tailored and personalized care. We are for hope, for communities, and for connections. For the common good.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for friendly volunteers who adhere to our values of being reliable, respectful, responsible, and resourceful. You will be a good team member who we can expect to volunteer in our shops for a minimum of 4 hours a week.

Practical Considerations
We do reimburse Travel and Lunch expenses in line with our policy.

Job Type: Volunteer

Pay: n/a

Benefits:

• Travel Expenses claimable
• Store discount

Flexible language requirement:

• English not required

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability
• Weekends only

Work Location: In person

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. 

We are looking for volunteers who can spend time with our clients  in and around Central London.  Meetings are  regular over a period of 6 months; weekly or fortnightly.  Many volunteers stay involved for much longer but only because they enjoy what they do! 

Befriending is a simple way to make a positive difference to someone who is lonely or socially isolated and your gift of time, will give them, and you, something to look forward to. As one of our volunteers once told us, “this is an easy, very meaningful way to help someone and is immensely rewarding and fun!”  

Your meetings could be in the local community, having chats in a coffee shop, visiting places of interest, or in our client’s home; all activities are risk assessed so what you do together will depend on the results of this, and / orour clients abilities and interests. Most of our clients are older 1st and 2nd generation Scots living in London who simply want to do the activities that most of us take for granted but have no-one to do them with.

ScotsCare works across London and beyond so we're looking for volunteers who live in the area or can travel to the following areas; Lambeth, Islington, Camden, central London and Broxbourne EN10. We may have clients in more locations so please contact us to learn more if you want to be involved in this rewarding and impactful activity. 

We provide training before you start, ongoing support once you are matched, out of pocket expenses, references, social events and newsletters to keep you informed.

This could be the ideal opportunity to gain practical experience of working with adults in a health and social care setting, or for anyone who enjoys meeting new people and making their lives a little brighter. 

Please note, this is an unpaid voluntary role and applicants must be living in or around the London area. 

Please contact us for more information, and a very warm welcome!

Skills & Characteristics Required for Befriending are:

• English spoken, good communication skills for listening and talking 
• Friendly, warm, non-judgemental 
• Honesty, reliable and committment to helping others
• Empathy and patience
• An ability to follow policies and procedures

We will process a DBS check for all successful applicants and request two references.

Job description

We need dedicated volunteers to work at our Ealing store. If you have a passion for fashion (especially second-hand), amazing customer service skills and you are keen to learn new skills, then this opportunity is for you. As a volunteer you will also be involved in receiving, sorting, steaming, and pricing our lovely donations, serving at the till, and using your creativity to create displays around the shop. Training will be provided. As a volunteer, you will be helping to raise money for the Octavia Foundation and support the work we do in the local community.

About Octavia Foundation Shops

We are Octavia. Founded by the Victorian philanthropist Octavia Hill in the 1860s, our work today covers three areas: homes, support, and care. We provide Londoners with quality, affordable housing, allowing many people to remain in the city who otherwise would have been priced out. We empower people, connecting them with opportunities for a better life. And we look after the elderly and vulnerable, with tailored and personalized care. We are for hope, for communities, and for connections. For the common good.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for friendly volunteers who adhere to our values of being reliable, respectful, responsible, and resourceful. You will be a good team member who we can expect to volunteer in our shops for a minimum of 4 hours a week.

Practical Considerations
We do reimburse Travel and Lunch expenses in line with our policy.

Job Type: Volunteer

Pay: n/a

Benefits:

• Travel Expenses claimable
• Store discount

Flexible language requirement:

• English not required

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability
• Weekends only

Work Location: In person

Job description

We need dedicated volunteers to work at our Olympia store. If you have a passion for fashion (especially second-hand), amazing customer service skills and you are keen to learn new skills, then this opportunity is for you. As a volunteer you will also be involved in receiving, sorting, steaming, and pricing our lovely donations, serving at the till, and using your creativity to create displays around the shop. Training will be provided. As a volunteer, you will be helping to raise money for the Octavia Foundation and support the work we do in the local community.

About Octavia Foundation Shops

We are Octavia. Founded by the Victorian philanthropist Octavia Hill in the 1860s, our work today covers three areas: homes, support, and care. We provide Londoners with quality, affordable housing, allowing many people to remain in the city who otherwise would have been priced out. We empower people, connecting them with opportunities for a better life. And we look after the elderly and vulnerable, with tailored and personalized care. We are for hope, for communities, and for connections. For the common good.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for friendly volunteers who adhere to our values of being reliable, respectful, responsible, and resourceful. You will be a good team member who we can expect to volunteer in our shops for a minimum of 4 hours a week.

Practical Considerations
We do reimburse Travel and Lunch expenses in line with our policy.

Job Type: Volunteer

Pay: £0.01-£0.02 per year

Benefits:

• Free or subsidised travel
• Store discount

Flexible language requirement:

• English not required

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability
• Weekends only

Work Location: In person

Heartwood House is a dynamic education charity that supports young people who self-exclude from school and are missing education because of bullying or other trauma. They provide both an academic and therapeutic programme to enable their students to get back on track and reconnect with society. Heartwood House has been delivering services in NW London for 20 years.  They have supported many students in their return to mainstream education, further education and employment.  They work with many local authorities such as Harrow, Hillingdon, Hertfordshire, Brent, Ealing, Barnet, Camden and many more.

Heartwood House (based in Harrow) is now looking to strengthen its Board and we are seeking a Company Secretary and named Trustee for Governance and Law – you will bring insight and understanding of charity law, Charity Commission legal regulations, Company Legislation and best practice. 

Trustees have a duty to ensure that the charity is well run, solvent, legally compliant, and working towards the charitable purpose for which it was established, and Trustee roles are an important and a highly rewarding way to support an organisation. Please note that Trustee roles are unremunerated voluntary positions, although reasonable travel expenses will be paid.

Heartwood House is committed to equality of opportunity, supports, and encourages under-represented groups, and values diversity. We seek people from a wide range of backgrounds, who will bring a fresh perspective to the Board, and having reviewed existing Trustee's diversity, skills, and experience, Heartwood House are keen for the Board to reflect the diversity of the communities that they work with and therefore welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Please contact Heidi Earp, Director of Langton Not 4 Profit our retained consultants for further information on the role.

BRANCH TRUSTEE – TREASURER (RSPCA OXFORDSHIRE)

Are you passionate about animal welfare? We are looking for an enthusiastic person who understands charity finance to support us in our mission to prevent cruelty, promote kindness and alleviate the suffering of animals.

Overview of the Branch Treasurer opportunity

We are looking for someone to volunteer as a Branch Treasurer for our OXFORDSHIRE Branch. This role would play a vital role in supporting the Branches affairs so that it is governed and managed effectively, whilst continually having animal welfare at the forefront of their mind.

As a minimum, trustees would generally attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 1-2 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether the trustee takes on additional duties.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824, we have been saving animals for over 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 OXFORDSHIRE Branch

The OXFORDSHIRE Branch was founded in 1875, 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 our Operations Manager and a team of volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

The main activity of our branch is on rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals, we take in the animals the Inspectors rescue from cruelty and neglect, we provide them with the veterinary attention, love and care, then we find them loving new homes. We also to help members of the public with financial assistance for their animals for neutering, microchipping and unexpected veterinary fees.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Treasurer

· Implement and maintain sound financial systems.

· Take a lead role in ensuring the committee set annual financial budgets and plan the branch income and expenditure.

· Provide a written financial report for every branch meeting.

· Liaise with auditors/independent examiners regarding the production of the annual branch accounts and treasurer’s report.

· Maintain control of all bank accounts as authorised by the committee.

· Execute and operate branch committee financial decisions and act as branch co-signatory.

· Maintain control over all branch paying-in books and receipt books and to ensure their correct use.

· In the absence of a branch box secretary, to assume responsibility for the branch network of collection boxes.

· Arrange payment of the annual branch contribution to the appropriate RSPCA fund.

· Coordinate financial control of all branch fundraising activities.

· Make quarterly VAT returns to headquarters promptly.

· Ensure the production, monitoring and annual review of the branch’s financial risk management strategy following the charity commission’s requirements.

· Liaise with branch officers, Branch Partnership Managers and Branch finance coordinator on Financial affairs as necessary and alert them immediately to any possible difficulties or irregularities.

· Ensure the retention and safekeeping of the branch’s financial documentation for the appropriate time as set by the charity commission.

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 your branch's short and long-term aims.

· Actively participate in branch committee meetings and attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.

· Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local 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 particularly looking for someone who has knowledge and experience in finance, who may already understand charity finance.

· As a trustee, you would be able to dedicate the time to attend monthly committee meetings, which last approximately 3 hours.

· There will be additional volunteer duties between meetings, such as; providing financial reports at committee meetings, monitoring the budget that the trustees have set for the year, processing payments, querying invoices, VAT returns, and processing Gift Aid claims.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Treasurer

· 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 local and national RSPCA staff and any additional training provided by the relevant branch.

· The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that directly impact 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

· 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.

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA, we’d love to hear from you!

Job description

We need dedicated volunteers to work at our Kentish Town store. If you have a passion for fashion (especially second-hand), amazing customer service skills and you are keen to learn new skills, then this opportunity is for you. As a volunteer you will also be involved in receiving, sorting, steaming, and pricing our lovely donations, serving at the till, and using your creativity to create displays around the shop. Training will be provided. As a volunteer, you will be helping to raise money for the Octavia Foundation and support the work we do in the local community.

About Octavia Foundation Shops

We are Octavia. Founded by the Victorian philanthropist Octavia Hill in the 1860s, our work today covers three areas: homes, support, and care. We provide Londoners with quality, affordable housing, allowing many people to remain in the city who otherwise would have been priced out. We empower people, connecting them with opportunities for a better life. And we look after the elderly and vulnerable, with tailored and personalized care. We are for hope, for communities, and for connections. For the common good.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for friendly volunteers who adhere to our values of being reliable, respectful, responsible, and resourceful. You will be a good team member who we can expect to volunteer in our shops for a minimum of 4 hours a week.

Practical Considerations
We do reimburse Travel and Lunch expenses in line with our policy.

Job Type: Volunteer

Pay: n/a

Benefits:

• Travel Expenses claimable
• Store discount

Flexible language requirement:

• English not required

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability
• Weekends only

Work Location: In person

We specialise in supporting people with visual impairment and complex needs in a range of services including Care Homes and Supported Living. Can you help support us in making a difference in the lives of the people we support?

What will you be doing?

We have an exciting opportunity for you to join our experienced Board of Trustees. As a member of the Board, you will play a vital role in steering and supporting the Group. The Board is responsible for providing strategic direction, ensuring we meet regulatory requirements, and overseeing the work of the staff team, ensuring the Group's efficient administration and financial stability.

What are we looking for?

Ideally, we are looking for a finance professional with experience in accounting or financial analysis, who possesses expertise in financial principles and practices. Having a good understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting that will help support our strategic goals and direction. 

What difference will you make?

We are constantly striving to make a difference to people’s lives through the provision of aspirational services for people with sensory and other specialist needs. We want to enable people to live fulfilled lives in excellent quality accommodation, and our whole philosophy is based around person-centred principles. Your contribution as an experienced finance professional will help us maintain a forward looking approach to establishing financial stability and governance. 

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance and provide a covering letter detailing why you are interested in this role.

We are looking for friendly, enthusiastic and energetic volunteers to walk our Wellness Walk routes with our participants to be someone that walkers can chat to if they’ve arrived and walking alone, provide a morale boost and support.

As the UK’s leading diabetes charity, it’s our job to tackle the diabetes crisis. We’re here to prevent type 2 diabetes, campaign for and support everyone affected by diabetes, and fund research that will one day lead us to a cure.

Thousands of people from across the UK will take part in our fun and family-friendly, sponsored Wellness Walks. It’s a chance to get out outside, take a deep breath, seize the day and change the world for everyone affected by diabetes.

There are currently 3 Wellness Walks held across the UK. We ask our walkers to think about their wellbeing and make a few small changes to how they live their lives, so that they can begin to feel healthier.

The walks are between 8-10 miles and are fully accessible – so pushchairs and mobility scooters are welcome.

Route volunteers guide walkers accurately and keep enthusiasm high. You must be aged 16+ to volunteer for this role (16 - 17 year olds must with be with a parent or guardian aged 18+), Volunteers in these roles will be positioned at key points on the walk route and will:

• Ensure walkers are heading in the right direction
• Motivate and cheer people on as they walk past your position
• Hand out hypo snacks, plasters or report medical incidents
• Monitor and report back to the route manager

We are looking for motivated, self-driven and passionate individuals to work with our client group and support them on their way to recovery. 

Role Overview

The SHARP programme is a community-based rehabilitation service, for individuals with alcohol or drug addictions. Clients attend the service on a daily basis for abstinence-based, interpersonal group therapy.

There are two centres at which this service is operated 9 Coggeshall Road in Braintree and 34 Runwell Road in Wickford. The role of a volunteer driver involves using their own vehicle properly insured, to carry one or more clients to and from the SHARP programme and their home address. The routes are variable depending upon where clients live and the administrator at either site will agree the routes with each volunteer to ensure the most effective cost saving for the service.

Each volunteer can choose when to work and how often to undertake journeys to suit their own personal situation.
The service will refund the car mileage (at a rate of 45p per mile) for journeys that begin and end at their home address.

What you will be doing..... 

• Arriving to collect and return clients in a timely fashion to ensure the client is punctual to the programme;

• Driving carefully and within the highway code to ensure safety of self, clients and other road users;

• Ensure that the vehicle used meets all relevant legal and safety standards and is properly insured for the carriage of passengers in a business context;

You will be providing important help and support for vulnerable people, and helping them on their journey to recovery and you will be giving back to the community.

There is a possibility that this role could progress into full or part time paid employment for the right person and the right role.

 We pay your car milage, this is at a rate of 45p per mile.

Also a full induction into the team will be provided, including placement specific policies and procedures. The following training will be provided:

• Organisational Awareness

• Data Protection & GDPR

• Health and Safety 

• Equality & Diversity

• Health & Wellbeing

• Safeguarding

• A clean, relevant driving licence

• An awareness of health & safety issues and how to respond to any concerns during a trip

• Knowledge of local roads and geography to minimise journey times

• Ability to work on both own initiative and as part of a team

• Able to work with the minimal of supervision

• Reliable and flexible

• Good communication skills

• An ability to maintain confidentiality

• Able to understand and maintain professional boundaries.

The service will refund the car mileage (at a rate of 45p per mile) for journeys that begin and end at their home address. Any additional expenses will need to be pre-agreed with placement supervisor.

Would you like to brighten someone’s day?

We are looking for people aged 18 and over who are friendly, and who like to listen, to become volunteer telephone befrienders with Staying Well.

If you have a little time each week to brighten someone’s day this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

How much time does it take?

We only ask you to make one phone call a week that is between 30-60 minutes long. We ask you to commit to ring for 6 months.

What are useful befriending skills to have?

Happy to Listen
A Good Sense of Humour
Patience
Happy to Chat
Empathetic
Flexible
Reliable and Punctual
Able to Maintain Confidentiality
Non-Judgemental

PLEASE NOTE YOU WILL NEED TO BE BASED IN CALDERDALE IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS VOLUNTEER ROLE.