Charity volunteer roles

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you! 

What you can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

This is a really flexible role – you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example:

• face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins 
• online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations
• marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press
• completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork
• championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
• photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection

Time expectation

This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

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!

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 Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin

Independent Visitor Volunteer

Our Independent Visitor Volunteers provide consistent and supportive relationships to children ad young people in care, offering emotional support, companionship, and guidance through shared activities and time together.  The Independent Visitor plays a vital role in helping the young people build confidence and feel secure while enhancing their personal, social, and cultural development.

As an Independent Visitor Volunteer in England, you might:

• support the child/young person to experience enriching activities that contribute to their personal and cultural development 
• engage in activities such as pursuing hobbies, meeting for meals, or socialising in a community setting 
• listen to and support the young person, fostering a sense of safety and trust 
• help the young person develop social skills and increase their involvement in their community 
• develop a positive and lasting relationship, ensuring the young person feels valued and supported

You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that the Independent Visitor Volunteers generally volunteer at evening and weekends due to the children’s and young person’s availability.

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”. 

We are seeking dedicated and compassionate Volunteers to join our new drop in group in Herford that take place on 2nd Monday of month, 10:30-12:30. This role is ideal for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the community while gaining valuable experience.

The Say Aphasia charity provides support groups across the UK for people with aphasia; a language and communication disability caused by a brain injury like a stroke. Aphasia affects over 350,000 people in the UK but is little understood or known about by the public. It is the only aphasia charity set up by people with aphasia for people with aphasia; helping them to adapt to their new way of life and regain their independence and confidence.

Aphasia occurs due to injury to the brain such as a stroke. It affects access to language, resulting in difficulties following conversations, speaking, reading and writing.

Volunteers will support the running of the group with communicating, and will have the opportunity to utilise their communication skills and IT knowledge to take a register of attendance.

Responsibilities

• Provide companionship and support to individuals, particularly those living with asphasia.
• Assist in organising activities that promote social interaction and engagement.
• Communicate effectively with participants, ensuring their needs are understood and met.
• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.
• Collaborate with other volunteers to enhance the group.

Qualifications

• An understanding or knowledge in aphasia is desirable.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups.
• Proficiency in IT, including familiarity with common software applications.
• A compassionate and patient attitude towards individuals in need of support.

This volunteer position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute positively to the lives of others while developing personal skills and experiences.

Become a Fundraising Volunteer!

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. 

Cats are at the centre of everything we do, and our objectives are homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about this role... 

Please note - Due to the nature of fundraising roles, our volunteers must be over the age of 18. 

As a charity we can help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations from our supporters. Raising funds is a key role in our charity, helping to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need.

As a fundraising volunteer, we will support you every step of the way to ensure your time at Cats Protection is a positive and rewarding one. Whatever time you can give really does make a big difference We have lots of exciting activities to choose from for example attending a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, handling administrative tasks, or contributing to the development of new fundraising ideas. Whatever your skill set, this role could be perfect for you! 

What can I expect to be doing? 

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following: 

• Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with our fundraising events, attending supermarket collections or local markets. 

• Distributing collection tins – popping collection tins into local shops and pubs and collecting them when they’re full. 

• Bringing new ideas! - We always love to come up with new ideas to raise funds for cats and we’d love to help bring yours to life. 

• Engaging with your local branches and Fundraising Hub and feeling like an integral part of the team! 

What are the benefits to you and the cats? 

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser.  You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.
Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them. 

We're looking for someone with: 

• Sympathy to cats and our values 

• Happy to be part of a team of dedicated volunteers and employees. 

• Flexible and adaptable to different events/activities 

• Open to new ideas and ways of fundraising 

How much time is expected of me? 

Our Fundraising Volunteer roles are very flexible, often certain times of the year are busier than others. You can choose your level of involvement to suit your schedule!

Support, guidance and keeping you safe 

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us. 

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Thank you for your support and sharing in this commitment and for everything you will do during your time with Cats Protection! 

The Vacancy:

Emersons Green Village Hall is seeking to recruit a Chair of Trustees to build upon our success to date, provide visionary strategic leadership and steer the charity through its next stage of development and growth.

This is a voluntary role with a minimum time commitment of approximately five hours per month. We have up to six scheduled bi-monthly Board Meetings, which last up to two hours and are usually held on Tuesday evenings. In addition we have Committee Meetings to deal with faniances and operations, plus our AGM.  Meetings are held via Miscrosoft Teams or in-person at Emersons Green Village Hall. 

The Role of the Chair:

The Chair’s role is to lead the Board of Trustees, providing strategic oversight and governance, and creating a positive and inclusive culture. The Chair will be actively leading on shaping the future of our Hall, developing the business, and setting its strategic direction to ensure financial viability for the future.

We are looking for an enthusiastic individual with a wide variety of skills who can be an enabler to oversee the charity and build on the progress we have made to date. Ideally you will have experience of being a Trustee. We are also looking for individuals with leadership, management, and organisational development skills. Experience in the voluntary sector, community facilities or running community projects would also be beneficial.

As a ‘hands-on’ Chair, you will bring your experience and skills to the role and will be supported by the Trustee Board, plus an established staff team including the Hall and Events Manager, plus the Treasurer and Company Secretary.

Please note that you must be aged 18 years or older.

About Emersons Green Village Hall:

Emersons Green Village Hall is a charity which runs the community centre with the same name. Our aim is to be at the heart of the community. We run our own events and activities and hire out our rooms.

How To Apply:

Please send your CV with contact details of two referees. While we do use LinkedIn, we will not accept your LinkedIn profile in lieu of your CV.

The first step is for our Company Secretary to show you around Emersons Green Village Hall and answer any questions about our operations and the building. If you wish to proceed with your application after your visit and discussion, we will take up your references. If these are satisfactory, one of the current Co-Chairs will interview you. The Board will then discuss any candidates proposed by the Co-Chair at our next Trustee Meeting and you will be notified of the outcome.

Our Company Secretary will then arrange for successful candidates to complete the necessary paperwork, including a basic DBS Check, before starting their roles as Trustees. 

This is an exciting opportunity to join a charity at the very start and to make a difference in shaping how we move forward.

Who are we looking for?

At present we are working to secure funding that will see us through our first year, and the role will be an important part of the organisation's growth and ability to obtain funding for specific areas of work by ensuring people who volunteer or engage with Living Reasons receive a high level of training and development.

As an organisation, Living Reasons believe that your individual skills are more important than experience. With this in mind, this role would suit someone who enjoys helping, engaging and passing on knowledge as well as researching and creating new ways of communicating with people, whether you have experience in learning and development is not important as they are skills that can be built on and are able to grow with the organisation. 

Living Reasons – What we are planning, who we are and where we are now:

What is the plan?

The person who is starting the charity up is autistic, has ADHD, CPTSD and also multiple physical conditions that effect daily life and is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has faced a lot of issues in life because of these things.

Living Reasons is being created to fix what we think is a challenging situation that is getting harder to achieve every week, month and year in the current economic, political, environmental and societal landscape. It is not easily defined but we hope the charity objects below will help put context to what we want to achieve, what we can say is that below are the issues we are trying to address, how we do this will change as quickly as society does, but the issues we want to tackle are these:

1) Outdated and damaging employment practices

2) Accessibility to services

3) Limited employment, training and education opportunities

4) Lack of support during times of crisis or need

5) Lack of equity and agency for many people in society

6) Institutional discrimination that is not challenged

7) Abuse of the legal system at all levels

8) Abuse of power in government bodies

9) Poor access to healthcare

10)  Unequal treatment of many people in society by large corporations

11)  Assumptions made by wider society based on incorrect, outdated or discriminatory rhetoric that is used in daily life

12)  Outdated company engagement with the public

13)  Lack of support that is not talked about and not being addressed

Our Living Values -

Creativity

1) Imaginative Development (Individual)

2) Instilled Collaboration (Internal)

3) Changing The Status Quo (External)

Prospectivity

1) What Can You Do (Individual)

2) What Can We Do (Internal)

3) What Can They Do (External)

Revolutionary 

1) Inspire With Confidence (Individual)

2) Boundaryless Innovation (Internal)

3) Challenge Traditions (External)

Attentivity

1) Analyse and Redesign (Individual)

2) Rebel and Reform (Internal)

3) Enquire and Reimagine (External)

SHELTERBOX IS LOOKING TO RECRUIT 2 NEW TRUSTEES TO JOIN OUR BOARD.

Position Type: Voluntary - The position of Trustee is unpaid

However, all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred on charity business will be reimbursed in line with our Expenses Policy.

Time Commitment: Around 12 - 15 days per year

The Board meets four times year. Two of these meetings are in London or Truro (Cornwall) and two of the meetings are online. Trustees are also encouraged to be a member of one of three committees which meet quarterly for two hours online via Microsoft Teams. There is also an annual two-day Board retreat, which is held in person and is combined with a Board meeting.

Attendance: In person and online

Trustees may also be invited to attend occasional fundraising or networking events.

Term of Appointment: Trustees are appointed for a three-year term, which may be renewed at the end of the term. Trustees cannot serve more than three terms (nine years).

Historically, the organisation’s financial resources have surged in line with high profile disasters and public response. Therefore, it is vital that we continue to build strategies that focus on developing predictable funding growth and ensure we have a sustainable and diverse income profile globally.

As a global organisation, we are seeking applications from across the world, particularly from the global south and from individuals with protected characteristics. We are actively seeking applications from people who may be typically underrepresented or absent from boards and charity governance. This is a fantastic opportunity to use your skills and experience – including lived experience – to support ShelterBox to deliver its strategic goals.

You will be part of a global team working to ensure that no one is without shelter after disaster. Our values run through everything we do. They are the principles that guide how we approach our work with the people we support, our volunteers and our staff.

We would especially like to hear from you if you have experience in fundraising and communications, organisational risk management, charity governance, working with or as a volunteer, or HR and People management.

Role Purpose:

Trustees are responsible under the governing documents of ShelterBox for the governance of the charity.

Upon appointment you will be provided with all applicable governance documents. Management and administration are delegated to the CEO and staff of the organisation.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who are as passionate and committed as us to ensuring no one is without shelter after disaster. In an increasingly complex world, more and more families are in desperate need of emergency shelter.

We must do more. We want people to join us in taking on that challenge.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive board and are actively seeking to improve gender balance among our trustees.

Please see here for general duties and expectation of a Trustee role: The essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do (CC3) - GOV UK

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES                                                       

As a member of the Board:

To ensure that ShelterBox is beneficiary led in our decision-making processes.

To agree and regularly monitor ShelterBox’s strategic direction, ensuring that the strategy will deliver on the organisation’s charitable aims and objectives.

To ensure that ShelterBox functions within the legal, charitable and financial requirements set by statutory and regulatory authorities and that it strives to identify and achieve best practice in the management of these areas.

To ensure the effective and efficient administration of ShelterBox by defining goals and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

To act in the best interests of ShelterBox as a whole and to put the interests of ShelterBox before those of any other organisation or person.

To identify areas for improvement and opportunities to maximise our performance, particularly in relation to the effective support, development and deployment of our people.

As a Trustee:

To help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This will include the scrutiny of proposals, leading and initiating discussions, providing advice or guidance on new initiatives and utilising any specialist expertise and experience.

To chair and/or attend bodies given delegated authority by the Board.

To participate in Trustee and Chair appraisal processes, including giving and receiving feedback and conducting Trustee exit interviews.

To adhere to the principles and processes set out in the ShelterBox Board Manual.

To safeguard the good name and of the organisation and actively demonstrate adherence to ShelterBox’s values.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. Women are currently underrepresented in this area of our work, and we particularly encourage female applicants to help us address this imbalance. All volunteer roles are open to everyone and will be allocated based on interest and suitability.

Are you passionate about addressing the societal injustices faced by disabled people? Do you have the skills to contribute to the board of a growing, ambitious charity providing support and making a tangible difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities and autism?

Share Community is seeking two trustees to fill skills gaps on, and diversify, our board.

Share’s trustee team has responsibility for overseeing strategy and performance. Share currently has nine trustees, and is looking to recruit two more with the enthusiasm, skills and commitment we need to help guide Share through the next phase of its development.

Prospective trustees must have a commitment to Share’s vision and values, and a passion for making a difference in the lives of disabled people. Share is particularly keen to encourage applications from individuals with specific experience of:

• Finance – Share is seeking a new trustee with strong financial credentials, ideally a Chartered Accountant, who will sit on our Finance Sub-Committee
• Law – A trustee with experience in the legal field

Share believes strongly that diversity of thought and experience directly contributes to better organisational outcomes, and that the composition of our charity’s leadership should be reflective of the diversity of our student body.

We are particularly keen to encourage applications for trustee roles from groups currently under-represented on the board, including people who have lived experience of disability or caring for someone with a disability, those from minoritised ethnic backgrounds, and men.

You don’t have to have been a trustee before – we are a welcoming, supportive team and will help you to succeed whether you’re a first-time trustee or you have extensive experience.

While trustee roles are voluntary, there are a host of benefits for prospective applicants. These include gaining experience at board level, training and other professional development, developing your professional network, and above all the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to an organisation which makes a significant, tangible difference in the lives of adults with disabilities.

About Share

Share is a charity based in Wandsworth and Lambeth, working with adults with learning disabilities and autism.

The story of Share began in 1972, when a group of disabled people came together as a self-help group to improve employment and training opportunities for disabled people. Over the years, Share has grown and evolved, responding to changing needs and opportunities.

Share appointed a new Chief Executive in 2022, and the Charity is in the final year of a three-year strategy. Delivery of our strategy will help Share achieve its mission of providing a safe, empowering and progressive experience where disabled adults can develop their skills, wellbeing and purpose to enable them to live happier, healthier and more independent lives.

Share principally supports people from south west London, with the majority of students coming from Wandsworth and Lambeth. Share currently operates from four sites and supports more than 180 students each week across our range of programmes which focus on personal development, independent living skills, and employability.

Share’s vision is to live in a world where disabled adults are genuinely valued and included, can make choices and have the freedom to fulfil their ambitions. Share is inclusive, supportive and ambitious and works with kindness, integrity and respect.

To apply for either position, we ask for expressions of interest in the first instance. This can be a short covering note outlining your key skills and interest in the role, or alternatively send us a voice note, or even a video clip of yourself (max five minutes long).

Upon receipt of your expression of interest we will be in touch to discuss next steps. If progressing your application we will ask you to provide a copy of your CV and other supporting information.

St Edmundsbury Cathedral became a registered charity on 2 May 2023 and has a Board of Trustees referred to as Chapter. Chapter is accountable for the governance, strategic direction and management of the Cathedral, and has ultimate responsibility for the care, maintenance and development of the Cathedral estate, all aspects of Cathedral activity, and for securing its long-term viability and financial sustainability.

The Risk, Audit and Review Committee will enable Chapter members to meet their responsibilities by providing independent oversight of the Cathedral’s systems of internal control, risk management and financial reporting, and through supervision of the quality, independence and effectiveness of both the internal and external auditors.

In this instance the Cathedral is looking at recruiting someone with relevant understandings and experience who would thrive as a Committee Chair.

The Committee must keep the activities and management of the Cathedral under review in relation to such matters as the Chapter has specified in these Terms of Reference.

The Chair is responsible for:

• Agreeing the agenda with the Chief Operating Officer for committee meetings
• Producing reports and ensuring they are submitted to Chapter in a timely manner.

The committee is responsible for:

• reviewing the annual report and financial statements, paying particular attention to accounting policies, areas involving significant judgement or estimation and compliance with financial reporting requirements and accounting standards, and recommending them to Chapter for approval;
• reviewing the scope and results of internal and external audit work, including the adequacy of management responses;
• reviewing the performance of internal and external auditors, including recommending the appointment and remuneration of internal and external auditors to Chapter when required;
• monitoring the processes for assessing, reporting, mitigating and owning business risks and their financial implications, including financial, governance and safeguarding risks;
• reviewing the risk register at least annually, and ensuring Chapter’s internal processes facilitate the prompt reporting of serious incidents, control failures and emerging risks;
• reviewing and recommending to Chapter the organisation’s policies for counter-fraud, anti-money laundering, whistle-blowing and cyber and information security; and
• reviewing arrangements by which staff may, in confidence, raise concerns about possible improprieties relating to finance or other aspects of the Cathedral’s operations to ensure that arrangements are in place for the investigation of such matters and for appropriate follow-up action.

Membership

• The Committee must have a minimum of six members and a maximum of ten members, provided that at least one member of the Committee must be a non-executive Chapter member.
• The Chapter shall appoint all members of the Committee, having consulted the Nominations Committee.
• Not all appointed members need to be Chapter members and should not be executive Chapter members.
• There must not be a majority of members in common with the Finance Committee.
• The members appointed should, collectively, possess appropriate knowledge and skills in accounting, risk management, audit, financial governance and any other technical issues relevant to the work of the Committee.
• The Dean must not be a member of the Committee but is entitled to attend any meeting of the Committee. If the Dean does attend, he or she may speak but may not vote.
• The chair of the Committee must be appointed by the Chapter. The person appointed to chair the Committee must: not be a member of the Chapter; and have recent and relevant financial experience.
• Each member is appointed for a term of office of up to three years.
• A member may be reappointed, provided that any member who has served more than two consecutive terms is not eligible for appointment as a member until at least two years has passed since the member last held the office.
• A Committee member may resign by notice in writing to the Chief Operating Officer and Dean. Any Committee member who ceases to be a Chapter member shall automatically cease to be a member of the Committee.
• The Chapter may remove a member of the Committee in accordance with the provisions of the Statutes.
• Members must declare conflicts of interest or loyalty in accordance with the Chapter’s conflicts of interest policy.

Successful candidates must possess the following competencies and personal attributes:

• Professional Experience
• Have a broad understanding of the leadership and management needs of complex organisations
• Have experience of strategic planning and implementation
• Have a good general knowledge of the basis of faith within the Anglican community
• Be well informed of the responsibilities and obligations of Charity Trustees
• Have a good general knowledge of good operational practices in managing organisations
• Have proven professional expertise in audit and risk management, especially for Charities.

Proven expertise in one or more of the following areas is essential:

• Finance Legislation (especially auditing), Management accounting practices, Internal and external auditing, Financial risk management, Business risk management, Project risk management, Safeguarding, Health and Safety, Property management, Strategic planning for finance and monitoring and evaluating culture / environment impact.

Desirable Personal Attributes and Behaviours:

• Ethically anchored – act with honesty and integrity; committed to act and behave ethically
• Intellectual ability – have the ability to obtain and analyse relevant data; use object reasoning
• Emotionally aware/resilient – are emotionally intelligent; remain calm under stress
• Team oriented/collaborative – actively seek the views and knowledge of others and adopt a collaborative approach
• Diligent/responsible – approach work in a conscientious way and take responsibility for their actions
• Faithful/discreet – honour the trust placed in them by others and be discreet in their conversations
• Humble/servant leader – place others’ needs before their own; not be self-seeking or status oriented
• Effective communicator – are able to express themselves clearly and concisely using relevant information

Volunteer with Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure

Stepping Stones is a small, friendly charity in Southwark providing inclusive activities for adults with learning disabilities. We believe everyone should have the chance to express themselves, connect with others, and take part in activities that bring joy, confidence, and new skills.

We’re currently looking for volunteers to support our sessions in:

• Art (Friday mornings)
• Dance Fit (Thursday mornings and/or afternoons)
• Music (Tuesday mornings and/or afternoons)
• Social Club (Thursday afternoons)

These weekly groups offer creative, social, and wellbeing-focused opportunities for our learners, led by experienced tutors in a relaxed, supportive setting.

All sessions take place at St Faith’s Centre, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JQ (close to North Dulwich and Herne Hill stations)

What You’ll Do

As a volunteer, you’ll be supporting adults with learning disabilities to participate fully in the sessions, connect with others, and enjoy meaningful activities. Your role might include:

• Setting up and packing away equipment and materials
• Welcoming students and their carers or support workers
• Offering encouragement and practical support in one-to-one or small group settings
• Helping tutors to deliver fun, engaging activities

All sessions are led by experienced tutors, and you’ll be part of a warm and supportive staff and volunteer team who are committed to inclusion, creativity and care.

What You’ll Gain

Volunteering with us is a chance to:

• Build experience working with adults with learning disabilities
• Gain hands on involvement in creative, wellbeing and social activities
• Be part of a welcoming and friendly team
• Develop your confidence, communication and teamwork skills
• Make a meaningful contribution to your local community
• Learn from people with diverse experiences 

Whether you’re exploring a career in social care or looking to give back and become a stronger link in your community, we’d love to hear from you.

Who We’re Looking For

You don’t need to be an expert! We’re looking for people with the right attitude, values, and willingness to support others. Even if you don’t have experience of working with adults with learning disabilities, the following qualities are especially helpful:

• Enthusiasm and positivity. Your energy can set the tone for the group. A cheerful presence helps create a welcoming and encouraging environment.
• Patience. Some learners may take time to engage or communicate. Patience helps build trust and ensures everyone feels supported.
• Reliable and punctual. Many of our learners value consistency and routine. Being dependable helps build rapport and ensures the session runs smoothly.
• Inclusive communication skills. You should feel confident listening carefully, offering clear instructions or encouragement, and adapting your communication to meet individual needs.
• Inclusive and non-judgemental. We welcome people from all walks of life. An open-minded approach helps every learner feel accepted and valued.
• Adaptable and flexible. Things don’t always go to plan. A calm, flexible approach helps maintain a relaxed and safe environment for our sessions to run.
• Ready to get stuck in! Many sessions involve art, music or movement. You don’t need to be an expert, but a willingness to join in and get involved makes a big difference.

Prior to volunteering, we ask all volunteers to:

• Attend an induction meeting
• Provide two references
• Complete a DBS check (we will arrange this)
• Commit to volunteering one session per week for 3 x 10 week terms throughout the year. For continuity for our service users, we ask that you commit to volunteer for a minimum of a year with us.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and answer the following questions (these will come up when you hit "Apply"):

• What session(s) would you like to volunteer in?
• Why you would like to volunteer with Stepping Stones?
• What are the strongest attributes and values you feel you will bring to your volunteering role?

Why does this role matter to Human Appeal? 

Volunteers are an integral part of Human Appeal’s success. They are the ones that create real change for those most in need. This is your chance to meet new people, gain new skills and experience and have fun whilst being part of a great cause.

We are seeking to recruit enthusiastic, fast learning and eager individuals to join our growing team at Human Appeal for a 3-day period to gain new skills, organise fundraising events and develop a clearer understanding of the role of a fundraising officer in the charity sector.

Main tasks include: 

• Administrative, project and ad-hoc support to the wider Fundraising department 

• Assist with administrational tasks relating to executing fundraising events

• Assist on developing creatives to advertise events

• Coordinate volunteer engagement and maximise volunteer participation in events

Knowledge/Experience/Skills required: 

• An understanding of Fundraising and HA’s values 

• A good understanding of humanitarian relief

• Effective written and oral communication skills 

• Ability to work well in a team 

• Problem solving skills 

Benefits of volunteering with us: 

• Experience of operating within the Fundraising division of an international charity 

• Opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in International Programme Management 

• Excellent support as part of a friendly team 

• Excellent training opportunities 

• Offer to provide references after 3 months of volunteering 

• Support in developing your CV (should you want it) 

• Opportunities to take part in Human Appeal events 

Learning & Development: 

To enable you to take part in this opportunity Human Appeal will provide:

• A detailed induction to provide you with an overview of Human Appeal 

• Training and shadowing providing all the information and skills needed to fulfil the role

• A dedicated member of staff to provide ongoing support and supervision 

• A volunteer handbook that outlines all of the policies and procedures you will need to be aware of whilst volunteering 

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

 As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you! 

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

 What we need from you

This is a really flexible role, you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example: 

• face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins 
• online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations
• marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press  
• completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork 
• championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
• photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection

Time expectation

This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!

A bit more information about what we're looking for 

We are particularly interested in hearing from people based near Uttoxeter, Rugeley or Cannock as we're looking to expand our fundraising team in these areas. However, if you live outside these areas, please still apply - we'd love to hear from you! 

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Fundraising volunteer

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you! 

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

This is a really flexible role, you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example: 

• face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins 

• online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations

• marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press  

• completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork

● championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement

● photography. Capturing images of cats in care, cats we are helping, events and all things Cats Protection

Time expectation

This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats

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 Tameside

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

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”.