Communications And Events Volunteer Roles in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The impact a volunteer telephone befriender can have on a lonely individual is amazing and for many of our service users our volunteer telephone befrienders are the only people in their lives who can offer quality time for a nice chat. With just one hour of your time per week you can help provide companionship and support for someone suffering from chronic loneliness. 

You will have to complete a DBS check and an Adult’s Safeguarding training, both covered by our organisation.

For this role volunteers will gain: 

• Confidence using the telephone.

• Develop interpersonal and communication skills. 

• Free Safeguarding and DBS check

Time Commitment 

Volunteers can give a minimum of 1 hour per week and must commit to a minimum of 3 months. However, the longer you commit to this role the more you will benefit. 

Training

• Level 2 Safeguarding adults 

We offer ongoing supervision and regular catch ups with team members. The volunteer has the opportunity to meet with fellow volunteers for monthly or bimonthly zoom events. 

Is a DBS Check required? 

• We require all applicants to provide two references. DBS is required for this role, but the cost will be provided by the Dialogue Society

Personal Requirements 

• Engage with a client to provide support on a weekly basis or schedule a specific time with the client. 

• For this role you will need a clear and polite telephone manner.

• The ability to actively listen, empathise and promote conversation.

• Adhere to the appropriate guidelines while communicating with the clients, preserving the reputation of the organisation. 

• To identify if a person may be at risk and alert a supervisor.

• To maintain confidentiality. 

• To work within a team of volunteers and staff.

• To work within Dialogue Society’s policies and procedures

• A non-discriminatory and a non-judgemental attitude 

• Reliable 

Could you be one of our next Trustees?  Could you be the next Vice Chair of our Board?

PACT, with a rich history dating back to 1911, is a leading adoption charity and trauma recovery provider across southern and central England. By joining us, you'll play a crucial part in placing children in secure and loving families, empowering women to take control of their lives and aiding the recovery of those affected by domestic abuse.

We’re looking for individuals to join our Board of Trustees who share our passion for making a real difference to the lives of hundreds of children, women and families.  We’re particularly keen to hear from people with skills and experience in marketing, digital development, lived experience of our services, including from adopters, children’s or adult social care and commercial business.

We know the value of having board members who champion inclusive values and bring a wide variety of perspectives to our organisation and welcome applications for people of all ages, backgrounds, cultures and levels of experience.

If you’re interested in joining as a Trustee and have no prior board experience this isn’t a problem.  For the Vice Chair role some prior Trustee experience or transferable skills would be ideal.

We provide comprehensive training and support and offer flexibility and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Plus, you'll gain immense satisfaction from knowing your efforts directly impact vulnerable individuals and families.

If you’re excited by our work, have time to give and want to be part of something truly meaningful and live changing, this fantastic opportunity could be for you.

Learn more about our amazing work please visit our website.

For an informal discussion with our CEO, please visit our website for contact details. If you are interested in the Vice-Chair opportunity we can arrange for an informal discussion with our current Vice-Chair.

Interested?  For more information and details of how to apply, please take a look at the volunteer page of our website where you will also find our Trustee recruitment pack.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 31 May 2024

Interviews will be held on Wednesday 12 June 2024.

Lead transformative sports initiatives and wellness programs that promote both mental and physical health. As the Sports and Wellness Programme Manager at Barawak, you will champion initiatives that empower our community to achieve holistic well-being.

Role Description

Introduction to the Sports and Wellness Programme at Barawak

Energize your service to the community with purpose at the forefront of Barawak's Sports and Wellness Programme, where we embrace the transformative power of physical activity and mental resilience. In direct alignment with our objective to nurture a community in peak health, this service line is a catalyst for change, advocating for holistic wellness and mental health. Our strategic vision is to launch groundbreaking sports and wellness initiatives that do more than just engage the body; they invigorate the mind and nourish the spirit.

Our mission through this service line is to offer a sanctuary of health and well-being that resonates with our broader vision of a community where every individual thrives. By integrating innovative sports programs and mental well-being activities, we're not only enhancing personal health but also fostering communal vitality. This initiative is a pledge to our community—a commitment to a future where wellness is woven into the fabric of our everyday lives, empowering the Afro-Hebrew community to soar to new heights of achievement and fulfillment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plan and execute the Sports and Wellness strategy and service line: Improve physical health and mental well-being through sports and related activities by launching novel sports and wellness initiatives that prioritize agility and holistic health.

• Forward-thinking initiatives: design and launch innovative sports and wellness initiatives that promote physical agility and holistic health within the community. These should include sessions for mental and physical well-being like football, exercise, and self-defence classes.

• Make discretionary referrals to subsidised counselling.

• Offer subsidised programmes for mental and physical wellbeing: champion mental health awareness by offering subsidised programs for mental and physical well-being, including access to wellbeing workshops.

2. Measure performance: Keep accurate count of thefrequency and attendance of sports, counselling and wellness sessions; and the self-reported improvement in participants' mental and physical health after sessions. Provide this data to the Governance Team and Trustees on request.

3. Collaboration with Verticals Teams: 

• Partnership Development & Collaboration Team: Coordinate with this team to identify and establishalliances and partnerships with local, regional and global organisations, businesses, councils, and thegovernment to acquire Sports and Wellness resources, speakers or information.

• Fundraising & Financial Management Team: Collaborate with this team to conduct fundraising activities and financial planning for the Sports and Wellness service line. Identify diverse revenue streams, such as grants, donations, corporate sponsorships, fundraising events for the Sports and Wellness service.

• Volunteer Engagement Team: Work with this team to recruit, train and manage volunteers to support the Sports and Wellness service delivery.

• Marketing Outreach & Advocacy: work with this team to enhance visibility of the Sports and Wellnessservice across social media, press, and community events. 

4. Governance Team Interaction: Provide regular updates and reports to the Governance, Secretariat & Performance Reporting team. Ensure programmealignment with Barawak policies, procedures, strategy and objectives. Collaborate on monitoring and evaluation efforts to assess Sports and Wellness service impact and effectiveness.

Person Specification:

• Skills: Strong organisational and leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and adept at working in a collaborative environment. Eagar to learn new skills.

• Attributes: Deep understanding of the challenges faced by the Afro-Hebrew community in the UK. Commitment to Barawak's values of helping out, sticking together, and staying strong. Ability to work flexibly and respond to evolving community needs.

• Commitment: Passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families dealing with poverty. Innovative thinker with a focus on creating sustainable, long-term solutions.

Important: This advert is for a voluntary role, which is unpaid and not subject to reimbursement of expenses. Any agreement with the successful candidate is not intended to be a legally binding contract between us and may be cancelled at any time at the discretion of either party. By applying for the role, candidates agree that neither of us intend any employment relationship to be created either now or at any time in the future.

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. 

Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace. 

Ready for an adventure? Dive into the heart of Quilombo UK by exploring our website and videos! Explore the values that guide our  mission, values and the impactful work we do to make a difference in our community.

Join us in leading positive change!

Role Description:

Quilombo UK is seeking to welcome a qualified and experienced professional to join us as a Legal Support Specialist to join our Directors' Support Team in a volunteer capacity. The Legal Support Specialist will play a crucial role in closely supporting the Quilombo UK Directorship by conducting legal research, reviewing documents, and effectively communicating findings to the directors. 

The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of taking briefings, translating them into actionable outcomes, and contributing to the overall success of the organisation.

Main Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Directors’ Support Team to provide legal guidance on a wide range of issues related to Quilombo UK’s operation.

• Analyse legal documents, contracts, and agreements, ensuring accuracy and identifying potential risks or opportunities. Collaborate with the Directors to provide informed recommendations.

• Conduct thorough legal research on relevant topics, providing comprehensive and well-documented summaries to aid decision-making processes.

• Assist in managing and organising legal briefings, ensuring all relevant information is captured and disseminated appropriately to facilitate informed decision-making

• Effectively communicate legal findings, updates, and recommendations to the Quilombo UK Directors. Clearly articulate complex legal concepts in a manner accessible to non-legal stakeholders.

• Participate in meetings and discussions to provide timely legal insights.

• Work closely with other team members to ensure legal considerations are integrated into organisational initiatives.

• Work collaboratively with the Directors' Support Team to translate legal actions into tangible outcomes. Monitor progress and provide regular updates on legal initiatives.

• Provide written reports as and when required. To undertake additional duties as required for the role.

 Essential:

• A qualified legal professional with a recognized legal qualification and relevant experience.

• Proven experience in legal roles, with a strong background in research, document review, and communication of legal matters.

• Demonstrated commitment to volunteer work and contributing time and expertise to support the goals of Quilombo UK.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex legal information in a clear and understandable manner.

• Strong collaborative skills and the ability to work effectively within a team, fostering a positive and inclusive working environment.

• Ability to comprehend and act upon briefings, translating them into actionable outcomes that align with the organisation's objectives.

• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments

• Strong team player

• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.

• Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Desirable:

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.

• Can work without much supervision

What do we offer:

• Online placement

• Opportunity for professional growth and development in Legal 

• A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and innovation.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday, Wednesday and/or Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Why we need your help

Marie Curie set up the Research Voices Group in 2013 to make sure we’re engaging meaningfully with people in our research activities who have personal experiences of living with terminal illness or who have cared for someone with a terminal. Our aim is to enable members of this group to contribute at all stages of our research and policy work and in a variety of research projects that we fund. 

All you need to join is personal experience of living with terminal illness, caring for someone with a terminal illness or of bereavement. You’ll also be interested in supporting research in these areas. We would welcome volunteers from diverse backgrounds and who have lived experience in the past few years.As part of the group, volunteers will help the Research and Policy teams to better understand the views of people living with a terminal illness, supporting people who have a terminal illness or of bereavement and help inform Marie Curie’s decisions on research funding,dissemination and campaigning activities.

This is a great opportunity to play an important role in helping to improve the future provision and quality of end-of-life care. It is also a chance to learn about the research and policy work in the sector.

What we would like your help with

Your role will include some of, but is not restricted to, the following tasks. You will be able to choose what you get involved with and how.

• providing your opinion on research proposals that we’re planning to fund
• helping to identify key questions for palliative and end of life care research
• advising on research projects, for example as a member of a research steering committee
• talking about research at external events and conferences
• helping our team to plan and facilitate key events and workshops
• sharing your experience at policy-making forums, speaking at conferences or attending Government events
• reviewing posters submitted for the Annual Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Conference
• reviewing grant reports and offering feedback on findings and achievements to grant holders
• being a member of a committee such as the Marie Curie Research Funding Committee

What skills or experience will be useful

• An interest in improving end-of-life care and in research and its evaluation
• Desire to understand and engage with national and local decision makers to drive change
• Good communication and organisational skills
• Ability to read and comment on research summaries
• Confidence in taking part in discussions in a committee situation
• Respect for different opinions
• A willingness to take an active part in meetings
• To use your skills and experience gained through your professional or home life to support the work of the group
• Access to phone or internet would be particularly useful

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to help us improve palliative and end of life care both within and beyond Marie Curie’s services
• Opportunities to enhance your skills and gain useful experience
• Induction, training, support and supervision in your role
• Reward and recognition for your time including out-of-pocket expenses
• Support from the Marie Curie research and policy teams and fellow members of the group
• The opportunity to share your experiences to improve care and support for others

What we ask of you

• To provide two references from non-family members and other relevant documents related to the role
• To keep to all the charity’s policies and guidelines
• To complete an induction and any training relevant to the role
• The group meets bi-monthly, mostly on-line and occasionally in person.  Any other time you choose to give is up to you.(home-based), with occasional visits to MC Head Office, Vauxhall, London

Diversity and inclusion

Marie Curie is committed to being a diverse and inclusive charity. We aim to demonstrate support for all of our staff and volunteers, valuing each individual’s contribution regardless of age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, civil partnership status, disability, nationality, race, religion or belief.  We are committed to providing equal opportunities to our staff and volunteers and to taking steps to ensure our staff and volunteers are protected from discrimination.

ABOUT US

Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and  6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left. 

Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work.  We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.

Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.

As a Digital Champion you will provide support to our clients who struggle with IT and monitor our online peer support platforms. You will need to understand the importance of digital literacy to our clients. There will be a ‘referral’ system from keyworkers and staff members who will identify clients in need of digital support, while monitoring our Fuse and Discord platforms will be an ongoing task.

To be successful in this role you will have excellent communication skills, IT skills and a true passion and commitment to supporting vulnerable people to address their support needs and fulfill their full potential. The Forward Trust is committed to tackling ‘digital exclusion’ within our client base.

ACCOUNTABILITIES 

Service Delivery – Client support tasks:

• Provide remote support for clients who struggle with IT.
• Helping to build clients confidence and self-esteem with using popular digital technology.
• Monitoring Forward’s online peer support platforms to safeguard clients from inappropriate content
• Raising awareness of online services and the support available locally.
• Build a trusting and supportive relationship with clients.
• Listen to the clients concerns and work with them to overcome those. 

Forward Fuse:

Fuse is an online ‘learning and knowledge’ platform. It combines elements of social media with e-learning. Forward Trust uses it for clients to share peer support and receive news of events, activities and services.

• Supporting the Forward Fuse platform as a moderator outside of normal staff working hours – monitoring content and comments for breaking of the Ground Rules, and encouraging engagement.

Discord:

Discord is a digital messaging platform on which Forward clients can safely chat with others who share similar objectives around recovery and self-growth, sharing support and combatting isolation in the process.

• Supporting the Discord platform as a moderator outside of normal staff working hours – monitoring messages for breaking of the User Agreement

Additional tasks:

• Support with web coding (if you have relevant experience)
• Engage in support and supervision provided.
• To keep a good record of your work, including reporting verbally to their supervisor and completing relevant forms.

This may vary depending on your specific team and time commitment.

EXPENSES

• Travel and lunch expenses will need to be pre-agreed with placement supervisor if travel is required.

TRAINING & INDUCTION

Induction training will be provided to the volunteer and will include the following:

• E-Learning:  
  • Data Protection/GDPR/PECR
  • Safeguarding – Knowledge
  • Health & Safety – Knowledge
  • Volunteer Induction – Organisational Awareness
• Digital Unite – available e-learning module and resources to help structure support sessions with clients
• A full induction to your team including placement specific policies and procedures.
• Additional volunteer training will be discussed and offered according to the need of the volunteer in placement.

QUALITIES 

Below is a list of the qualities that we are looking for from volunteers:

• Must be over 18 years of age.
• Ability to use computers and IT equipment.
• Confident to pass on digital skills in a friendly and supportive manner.
• Content Moderator – ability to evaluate content in line with content and policies.
• Web coding (preferable) – specific information needed.
• To have the ability to engage effectively with the client group.
• To have good verbal and written communication skills.
• To have a clear understanding and maintain a high degree of confidentiality.
• To have a clear understanding of how to set and maintain boundaries.
• To be able to communicate and actively listen to client’s concerns.
• To be able to treat clients in a positive and non-judgemental manner.
• To be committed to own learning and development.

The inspirational peer to peer mental health charity is looking for an experienced Chair of Trustees to help us increase our fundraising and service reach.

We are developing an ambitious ten year startegy to grow our reach, embed service excellence in mental health and have a strong financial base for operations.

If you are passionate about mental health and have experience in governance, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Interviews with the interim Chair and Chief Executive will be on a rolling basis, so please dont delay putting in an application. Please send us your CV and a short covering letter to apply

Quilombo UK is looking for a Researcher to join their national volunteering team working from home. Quilombo UK is a not-for-profit social enterprise that challenges people to think differently and bridge gaps between communities, with the aim of building a culturally rich society, where differences are accepted and celebrated. As chosen among 160 other organizations to work in collaboration with the Home Office on the “Building a Stronger Britain together” project, you will be joining a team, which not only supports the community but also stands up to extremism in all of its forms.

Responsibilities:

•  Research, collect and concise information, related to quilombo’s key objectives, in particular cultural and racial diversity, and stereotyping in uk communities.
• Use diverse sources of information, such as articles, journals, newspaper columns, local and global news stories, etc.
• Collect information that can be used as an evidence base to help inform future activities, exhibitions, workshops, and community events.
• Provide written reports when required.
• Contribute to staff meetings.

Skills and attributes:

•  Excellent written skills and ability to communicate ideas and concepts
• Ability to work with microsoft word is a must
•  Ability to work with excel is an advantage, although training will be provided if needed
•  Knowledge of the process of research and different alternative methods, techniques and data sources
• Demonstrate awareness of the ethical guidelines appropriate for the conducted research
• Analytical skills and ability to present and interpret information
• Organized, focused and able to prioritize.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Show professionalism at all levels and in all environments.

By joining Quilombo UK you will be supported and guided by experienced staff and volunteers, who are willing to share their skill set and will provide you with great opportunities for development in many different areas.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday, Wednesday and/or Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Please note that access to own laptop is essential

Job Type: Volunteer

Benefits:

• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Bachelor's (preferred)

Work Location: Remote

Overview: As a Volunteer Senior Fundraiser for our women's menstrual health charity in Malawi, dedicated to ending period poverty, you will play a vital role in supporting our mission to improve access to menstrual health products, education, and support for women and girls in Malawi. By leading fundraising efforts, you will directly contribute to expanding our programs, reaching more individuals, and making a meaningful impact on menstrual health equity in Malawi.

Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising Strategy Development: Collaborate with the executive team to develop a comprehensive fundraising strategy tailored to the context and needs of Malawi. Identify and prioritise fundraising opportunities, campaigns, and initiatives to achieve fundraising goals.

2. Donor Cultivation and Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with individual donors, local businesses, philanthropic organisations, and other potential supporters in the UK and Malawi. Develop personalized cultivation strategies to engage donors, communicate impact, and solicit contributions.

3. Grant Research and Proposal Writing: Conduct research to identify grant opportunities from local and international foundations, NGOs, and government agencies. Prepare high-quality grant proposals and applications, adhering to funder guidelines and deadlines.

4. Community Outreach and Awareness: Raise awareness about menstrual health issues and our organisation's work by supporting local women in community outreach activities, including workshops, presentations, and networking events in order to amplify our message and reach underserved populations.

5. Online Fundraising Campaigns: Plan and execute online fundraising campaigns using digital platforms and social media channels. Develop compelling campaign content, appeals, and engagement strategies to attract donors and mobilise support from a wider audience.

Qualifications:

• Passion for women's health, menstrual equity, and social impact in Malawi.
• Previous experience in fundraising, development, or related fields preferred.
• Strong communication skills in English
• Knowledge of the local philanthropic landscape, fundraising regulations, and cultural sensitivities in Malawi.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet fundraising targets within a flexible schedule.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, fundraising software, and online platforms.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion principles in fundraising practices.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a tangible difference in improving menstrual health outcomes for women and girls in Malawi.
• Professional development and networking opportunities in the field of fundraising and international development.
• Flexible schedule and remote work arrangement, allowing you to contribute your skills and expertise from anywhere.

Join us in advancing menstrual health equity in Malawi and empowering women and girls to thrive. Apply now to become a Volunteer Senior Fundraiser and be part of our dedicated team driving positive change in the community.

We are currently seeking a volunteer Personal Assistant to the CEO and Founder of Been There. This role is ideal for an individual with experience as a P.A./E.A. looking to work within the charity sector alongside a small and passionate team.

Responsibilities typically include: 

• Email management - Acting as a first point of contact for enquiries
• Diary management
• Database management
• Liasing with other team members
• Miscellaneous tasks to support the CEO which will vary according to projects and tasks but could include fundraising, event planning, social media, community outreach, press & PR. 
• 5-8 hours a week. Ideally 1-2 hours a day but we are flexible

Essential skills for this role are:

• Organisation skills - prioritize tasks, manage time, and keep track of deadlines
• Communication skills - should be able to communicate effectively in writing. 
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving skills
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed
• Confident in use of computer software including Microsoft Office 365

Desirable skills for this role:

• 2+ years experience as a P.A./E.A.
• Experience in use of CRM systems

If you are interested in joining our team but this role isn't quite right for you, please check out our other volunteer roles.

Children of Voices is a hugely respected charitable organisation helping to improve the lives of young people and their families through genuine care, love, and support.  

We are currently seeking a volunteer Personal Assistant/Office Manager. This role is ideal for an individual with experience as a P.A./Manager looking to work within the charity sector. 

Responsibilities typically include: 

• Acting as a first point of contact for enquiries: (email/calendar management and phone calls, managing diaries 

• Typing, compiling, and preparing reports, presentations, and correspondence. 

• Miscellaneous tasks to support the CEO which will vary according to projects and tasks but could include fundraising, event planning, social media, community outreach, press & PR. 

• Managing databases and filing systems. 

• Implementing and maintaining procedures/policies & administrative systems 

• Forming a relationship with our clients as they are part of the community. 

Essential skills for this role are: 

• Organization skills: The ability to prioritize tasks, manage time, and keep track of deadlines is crucial.  

• Communication skills: should be able to communicate effectively in writing. 

• Attention to detail: the ability to pick up on small details can prevent costly mistakes from occurring. 

• Problem-solving skills: the ability to identify and resolve problems quickly and efficiently.  

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause. The organisation has a warm and friendly atmosphere and will be extremely rewarding for the candidate. 

Prior to submitting your application for this position, we suggest you visit our website to gain a better understanding of our organisation and our mission. 

Join Us in Shaping the Future: Bring your passion for eye care and diverse expertise to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need. Become a Trustee of Vision Care for Homeless People!

• Are you passionate about ensuring everyone has access to essential eye care services, regardless of their circumstances?
• Are you eager to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those experiencing homelessness?
• If so, we invite you to consider becoming a Trustee at VCHP, where we're dedicated to providing vital eye care to those in need.

About Us

At VCHP, we believe that everyone deserves the right to clear vision and eye health. Since 2003, we've been on a mission to provide comprehensive eye care services to individuals experiencing homelessness across the UK. From eye exams to prescription glasses, we're committed to ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to their vision. Now, as we look to the future, we're seeking dynamic individuals to join our board and help guide our strategic direction.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. Do you know how to positively challenge the status quo? At VCHP, we're on a mission to provide essential support to those experiencing homelessness, and as we move forward, we recognise the importance of having a diverse and skilled board to guide our efforts effectively. We're currently seeking individuals who can bring specific expertise to address the existing skills gaps on our board. We're particularly interested in candidates who possess one or more of the following skills and experiences:

• Board Experience: To provide strategic leadership and governance oversight.
• Digital Skills: To navigate the digital landscape and leverage technology for organisational growth.
• Cybersecurity: To ensure the security and integrity of our digital infrastructure.
• Lived experience of homelessness or experience as a service user: To offer firsthand insights into the needs and challenges of our service users.
• Charity Law and Compliance: To ensure that we operate in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Policy Development: To develop robust policies that align with our mission and support our organizational objectives.

By adding individuals with these specific skills to our board, we aim to enhance our capacity to fulfil our mission and serve our community more effectively. For the full role description, which outlines essential skills and responsibilities, please contact us.

Why Join Us

• Make an Impact: As a Trustee, you'll have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve and contribute to positive change in our community.
• Professional Development: Joining our board offers valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth, including leadership development, networking, and learning from experienced colleagues.
• Be Part of Something Meaningful: Join a dedicated team of like-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference and creating a brighter future for VCHP and those we support.

How to Apply

If you're ready to embark on this rewarding journey and help shape the future of VCHP, we'd love to hear from you!

To apply, kindly detail your alignment with the desired skills and experiences and articulate your motivation for seeking the role of trustee at VCHP within a concise response of no more than 2 pages. Please accompany this with your CV, if you have one.

If you want to learn more or have questions before applying, please contact Anna, who will be happy to assist you. Please note: If you would like to submit an application or express your interest in an alternative format such as audio or video upload or require any adaptations for your initial engagement with us, please contact Anna who will be happy to advise on this.

Closing date for applications: 31st May 2024, with the possibility of interviews conducted on a rolling basis.

Interview dates: July 2024. While this role can be carried out remotely, please note that there will be one annual face-to-face meeting.

SAFEGUARDING TRUSTEE

Blue smile is looking for a Trustee to join our friendly, committed and active Board, taking the lead on safeguarding, supporting the Chair of Trustees and Charity Director.

Blue Smile’s mission and purpose

Blue Smile's mission is to transform the mental health and life chances of Cambridgeshire children through arts-based therapies.  We help over 200 children a week to be happier and have brighter futures.  We work with schools in Cambridge and the region providing children with one-to-one therapy.  We also directly support both schools and parents to help their children through our extensive Menu of Services.  We work in particular, in accordance with our charitable aims, with those who face disadvantage or deprivation.

The charity has over 70 clinical experts working with us.  Our office team supply essential management and administrative support to this clinical work. 

Safeguarding is central to all Blue Smile activities, and we recognise that the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk, is paramount and that all have equal rights of protection. We have a duty of care when they are in our charge, and we will do everything we can to provide a safe and caring environment whilst they attend our activities.

Blue Smile's Trustees

The Trustees are responsible for appointing and overseeing the work of the Charity Director, making key decisions about the charity, and ensuring it is run appropriately and in compliance with the law and good governance.  The Trustees must ensure the charity carries out its purposes for the public benefit.  They must act in the charity’s best interest, manage its resources responsibly, act with reasonable care and skill and ensure the charity is accountable.

Why become a Trustee for Blue Smile?

This is an exciting time to be joining Blue Smile as we implement our Strategy for 2024 onwards.  Building on our excellent reputation for high quality, specialised work with young children, we want to develop our services and evaluation, invest in new systems, and grow our service to meet the increased need for child mental health support.  We also want to increase reach through additional services which impact the whole school community.

You will be joining a friendly, committed, and active Board and induction and training will be provided.

THE ROLE OF THE SAFEGUARDING TRUSTEE

Though safeguarding is the responsibility of all trustees the Safeguarding Trustee will take the lead on safeguarding supporting the Chair of Trustees and Charity Director.

The Safeguarding Trustee will:

• Have oversight of the safeguarding policies and procedures. Ensuring there is an annual review which is reported to the other trustees. 
• Consider the charity's strategic plans in the light of safeguarding legislation and other relevant obligations and the safeguarding expectations of the Charities Commission.
• Check the charities risk register reflects safeguarding risks properly and work with the Board and Charity Director to plan sensible measures to take.
• Ensure there is space on the agenda for safeguarding reports and help trustees understand and challenge those reports.
• Attend relevant safeguarding training events.
• Support the trustees in developing their individual and collective understanding of safeguarding.

Experience and Skills we are looking for in a Safeguarding Trustee:

• Experience working in safeguarding for children and young people.
• Awareness of relevant guidance, particularly, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 and Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality on sensitive and confidential information.
• Commitment to the values (and ethics) of the charity.

Role type: Unremunerated/Volunteer (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Location:  Trustee meetings currently take place mainly online but attendance at Blue Smile offices in Central Cambridge, or other locations where we work, may be required from time to time

Commitment: Six meetings a year of the Trustee Board (usually on a weekday evening) Trustees are also represented on subcommittees and advisory groups which report to the Board. We would encourage the Safeguarding Trustee to be part of the Clinical and Ethics Committee which meets once a term.

Trustees may also offer support with projects and events as required and as their time allows.

We are committed to a diversity of voices in our organisation.  We welcome applications from all backgrounds.  We would encourage younger people to consider applying – you do not need to have held a trustee or similar role before.  We would also love to hear from you if you are from an under-represented groups at Blue Smile such as individuals from Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQI+ people and people with a disability, or if you have experience of child and family statutory services in your own personal life.

Blue Smile is committed to safer recruitment and trustees will be expected to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

If you would like to be part of a welcoming and well-respected charity whose aim is to help children enjoy happier childhoods and brighter futures please send your CV and a covering letter outlining why you are interested in the Safeguarding Trustee role. Thank you!

Faith to Faithless are launching a brand new helpline for apostates in the summer of 2023, for people leaving high-control religions, and we’re looking for committed, compassionate volunteers to join us. 

You will be a motivated, dedicated, and organised person with great communication skills, who is enthusiastic about volunteering your time and skills to support individuals leaving high-control religions (also known as apostates). You will have lived experience or understanding of the issues apostates face, and a kind and empathic approach to working with others.

We’ll train you to handle calls with confidence, and you’ll be getting valuable experience in supporting service users with multifaceted needs. This is a volunteering role where you can develop your interpersonal skills, help members of our community that need it most, and make a real difference in their lives by helping them to get back on track to living happy, purposeful lives without religion.

Key Tasks and Activities

• To respond quickly and efficiently to calls requesting help, providing a listening service, signposting and information to people who have experienced victimisation due to leaving their religion.
• To deliver work which adheres to high service standards, ensuring compliance with all policies and procedures.
• To keep and maintain accurate and confidential records of all work undertaken.
• To identify and maintain appropriate boundaries for all callers and recognise when and where to signpost callers for further help/information as appropriate with appropriate support from the apostate services manager
• To proactively continue to develop appropriate knowledge, attitudes and skills through regular reading of information and attending training courses.
• To support the training of helpline volunteers as required.
• To attend supervision, meetings and appraisals.
• To undertake any other appropriate duties as requested by the ASM
• To work at all times within the policies and procedures of Humanists UK.

Download and read the full application pack for more information. To apply, please complete the application form telling us why you’re interested in the role and detailing how you match the person specification on page 4 of the application pack. Then return the completed form with the subject ‘Helpline Volunteer’ to volunteer[at]humanists[dot]UK.