Communications And Events Volunteer Roles in Charing Cross, Greater London

Age UK Richmond upon Thames is a local independent charity supporting older people, carers and family members in Richmond upon Thames. We are committed to our mission to provide support to help local older people to live healthier happier and more independent lives.

Age UK Richmond upon Thames are a local partner of the national charity Age UK. This means we operate as an independent charity – responsible for raising our own funds and providing services to meet local need in Richmond upon Thames.

We currently have an excellent opportunity for a new Chair of Trustees to join our charity. Our current Chair is due to leave later this year.

Our wide range of highly valued and well utilised services currently include:

· Information & Advice, including support to claim welfare benefits and other financial support.

· Social & wellbeing groups, activities and centres.

· Leadership of the Community Independent Living Service (CILS) Partnership – working with 19 other voluntary sector groups.

· ‘Connect To Tech’ digital skills support.

· Leadership of Dementia Friendly Richmond, working in partnership to make the borough more dementia inclusive.

· Mental Health Peer Support.

· ‘Nightingale’ hospital discharge service.

· Handyperson & gardening.

· Housekeeping.

Our Chief Executive leads a team of around 50 committed staff, supported by around 100 volunteers. We support around 4,000 local older people every year.

Our income is currently around £2.3m a year. However, this includes a local authority contract we manage under which  a significant portion is passed  to other local charities we work in partnership with. Funding comes from a range of sources including local authority & NHS contracts; grant funders; chargeable services; donations and legacies.  

Our board is currently made up of nine trustees, led by the Chair – all bringing different skills and views.

It is an interesting time to be joining us. We are working on developing our ambitious new Strategic Plan for April 2025 onwards – and we are keen to ensure we are responsive to the changing needs of existing and new generations of older people. Rising costs and a more challenging income generation environment is starting to put more pressure on our finances although our current position is relatively stable – and we will need to think about how we adapt. We are also keen to strengthen our local partnerships and further the support for those with dementia and carers.

Our website gives further information about the charity.

We are looking for a dynamic Chair who is committed to improving the lives of vulnerable and isolated older people across Richmond upon Thames. Running a healthy and successful charity requires a strong Board that offers leadership and challenge in a collegiate and positive way and has our beneficiaries at the core of everything they do.

The role of the Chair

The Chair of Trustees leads the board, ensuring that it governs Age UK Richmond effectively, in service of the charity’s vision and mission. The Chair leads in an inclusive way, supporting the board to work together well, and providing support and challenge to the Chief Executive. The Chair is also an ambassador for the charity.

This is a voluntary unpaid role. Expenses can be reimbursed.

In addition to all the duties of a trustee, the Chair’s role includes:

· Providing leadership to the board and  ensuring that trustees fulfil their responsibilities for the proper governance of the charity.

· Ensuring the board sets a mission, vision, strategy and has the right policies to act in line with its Articles of Association and relevant legislation and that the Board monitors performance, spend and risk.

· Ensuring that the board as a whole works in partnership with executive staff.

· Ensuring good governance, with a systematic, open and fair procedure for the recruitment of trustees, with appropriate induction information and training.

· Ensuring the proper and efficient conduct of board meetings by; chairing trustee meetings effectively, seeking consensus, encouraging participation, taking an active role in ensuring that board agendas are meaningful and reflect the key responsibilities of trustees and that trustees receive timely and accurate information in order to allow the board to discharge its responsibilities.

· Regular meetings with the Chief Executive, to provide support and  review performance.

· Ensuring the Chief Executive provides an effective link between the board and staff.

· Attending events and forums when needed to help raise awareness of the charity and its work and support fundraising initiatives.

· Stakeholder engagement locally, and more occasionally regionally / nationally.

The Commitment

The Board of Trustees meet quarterly in person. Board members are asked to commit time to read papers, and to share expertise when needed. Board members are also expected to sit on at least one of two committees that also meet quarterly – Finance & General Purposes and Fundraising & Service Development. The Chair is an ex officio member of  both committees.

The Chair will also hold regular meetings with the Chief Executive. The role will also involve representing the organisation at events and attending occasional regional or national Age UK meetings.

Terms of Office

Trustees are appointed for an initial term of two years. Two further terms of three years can follow, up to a maximum of 8 years.

What we are looking for

● Experience of being on a board. You do not need to have been a Chair before however.

● Good understanding of governance and the duties of trusteeship.

● Senior level Health & Social Care and / or voluntary sector background.

● Experience of working with older people desirable.

● A keen sense of strategic purpose.

● An inclusive leadership style - able to inspire and support everyone to participate on an equal footing.

● The ability to listen and engage effectively. You are comfortable with challenge and debate and are able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative board environment.

● Excellent communication skills.

Please click to apply to be taken to our website for f=ull information and how to apply. 

Scottish Historic Buildings Trust is a leading charitable organisation dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and sustainable development of Scotland's historic buildings. Our mission is to safeguard architecturally and culturally significant buildings for future generations while ensuring they contribute to the vibrant life of our communities.

Our team has specialist skills in historic building preservation, fundraising, project management and property management. We also bring expertise in event management, building interpretation and in delivering educational programmes. So far, we have restored over 30 buildings and raised more than £30 million.

Following a recent review, we are seeking to appoint four additional trustees to join our strong and committed board. We are particularly interested in inspirational and dynamic applicants with experience in one or more of the following areas:

· Strategy development and leadership

· Finance

· Heritage conservation

· Marketing

· Fundraising

· Property development

· Asset management

By joining SHBT as a Trustee, you'll have the unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Scotland's historic landscape. Your professional expertise and passion for our built heritage will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our organisation and the preservation of Scotland's history.

Trustees serve a term of three years, with the possibility of reappointment for a further three years. Successful applicants will be expected to attend four meetings a year, either at one of our own buildings or another site of interest and will have over-arching statutory duties in respect of governance.

For more information on the work of SHBT please visit our website. 

Drive Barawak’s growth and sustainability by spearheading innovative fundraising strategies and managing financial resources. As the Fundraising and Financial Management Vertical Lead, you will play a crucial role in ensuring our community projects thrive financially.
 

Understanding the Verticals at Barawak

Imagine Barawak as a living, thriving tree. Our verticals are like the main branches—each one strong and important, reaching out in its own direction but all connected to the same trunk, our community's mission. These four powerhouse teams each have a special job:

• The Fundraising and Financial Management vertical covers fundraising and money matters: This team is all about finding resources—like getting donations and grants—to keep our programmes strong and healthy.They will spend their time writing fantastic letters, sponsorship proposals and funding requests on behalf of Barawak as a whole, but also (supporting programme leads) to specific organisations for Barawak service lines.

• The Partnership Development and Collaboration vertical covers building bridges: They're the connectors, making friends with other groups, businesses, and everyone who can help us grow.

• The Volunteer Engagement vertical covers welcoming our helpers: This bunch is in charge of gathering our most valuable resource—people like you who want to volunteer and make a difference.

• The Marketing Outreach and Advocacy vertical covers spreading the word: They tell our story far and wide, making sure everyone knows what we're up to and how they can join in.

Each vertical team works in two distinct ways: the first way is for Barawak as a whole, and the second way is in support of each Barawak service, feeding our programmes, like roots bringing water and nutrients to the branches. Whether it's Poverty Relief, Education, Employment Support, Community Engagement or Sports and Wellness, these verticals give the support each programme needs to blossom and bear fruit. Working together, they make sure we're all pushing in the same direction—towards a future where our community stands tall and proud.

Introduction to the Fundraising and Financial Management vertical Lead role:

The Fundraising and Financial Management Lead plays a pivotal role in securing the financial health and sustainability of Barawak. This role is dedicated to developing fundraising strategies, managing financial resources effectively, and ensuring that all financial practices support Barawak’s mission and the specific needs of its programmes.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Fundraising:

• Design and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy for Barawak, incorporating grants, donations, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising events.

• Identify and cultivate relationships with new donors and sponsors, while maintaining and enhancing relationships with existing supporters.

2. Financial Planning and Oversight:

• Work with the Trustees and advisers to oversee the financial planning for Barawak, ensuring that budgets align with service line objectives and organizational goals.

• Provide financial insights and guidance to the Board of Trustees, aiding in strategic decision-making.

3. Support to Trustees:

• Collaborate with trustees to understand and support the financial requirements of strategic objectives.

• Present regular financial reports to the Board of Trustees, ensuring transparency and adherence to financial governance.

4. Programme-Specific Financial Management:

• Work closely with each programme lead to tailor fundraising efforts and financial management support to the unique needs and KPIs of their service lines.

• Ensure that each programme has the financial resources needed to achieve its objectives, and provide financial analysis to guide programme development.

5. Resource Allocation:

• Manage the allocation of funds across various service lines, ensuring efficient and impactful use of resources.

• Monitor spending and implement financial controls to maintain budget integrity.

6. Compliance and Reporting:

• Ensure that all fundraising and financial management activities comply with legal standards and ethical best practices.

• Develop and maintain financial policies and procedures to support the organization’s operations and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Proven experience in or a passion for fundraising within the nonprofit sector.

• Previous financial management experience.

• A willingness to undergo training to grow in role.

By leading the Fundraising and Financial Management vertical, you will ensure that Barawak has the resources to make a lasting impact in the Afro-Hebrew community, promoting growth and stability through strategic financial stewardship.

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 seeking fundraising staff to liase within the local community to assist in arranging local events/competitions and raise awareness around domestic abuse, You will be confident in communicating with local businesses, building ideas and formulating strategies to raise vital funds whilst also raising the charities profile and bringing community together,

This is an exciting opportunity to build and lead fundraising activities. The fundraising team will be responsible for creating and implementing an innovative fundraising strategy that works alongside our community. Previous experience preffered but not essential and with multiple opportunities for growth,

Responsibilities

• To liase with local businesses/services/organisations to collaborate events
• Raising the charities profile 
• Helping to raise awareness around domestic abuse
• Creating oportunities for individuals to pursue interests/hobbies locally
• Empower the comunity to get involved 

Experience

• Respect for the confidentiality and self-respect of service users
• Non-judgemental, reliable and patient
• To be friendly, approachable, good communication skills and a good listener
• Knowledge and understanding of (or ability to learn) domestic abuse and the effects on ALL persons
• Confident in communicating with local businsses/ services and organisations
• Organisational and basic admin skills

What you will gain as a volunteer?

• A rewarding experience and opportunity to make a positive difference in the life of someone
• Training enabling you to develop new skills and broaden your knowledge.
• Skills development in support work 
• On-going training and opportunities for personal development and progression
• Support
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

The Cleft Lip & Palate Association (CLAPA) are currently looking for a new Chair of Trustees who can use their skills to lead a growing charity. 

We need someone who thrives as part of a dynamic group of Trustees, who is willing to champion the charity and who values seeing the impact that our work can make. If you think you have the experience, knowledge and passion to help support us to continue to meet the needs of the community we serve, we would love to hear from you.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the CLAPA’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we create and implement our new 5 year strategy for 2025-2030.

The Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA) is the national charity for people affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom.

CLAPA supports people affected by cleft to take control of their journey, connect with others, and use their voices to impact the future of care. Our vision is that no one affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom will go through their journey alone. 

The Chair of Trustees will be expected to:

• Work collaboratively with the CEO, staff and volunteers to achieve our strategy and optimise the relationship between the Board and CLAPA’s staff and volunteers.
• Provide leadership within the Board ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation and promoting good governance among fellow Trustees.
• Contribute actively to the board of trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Ensure that trustees are fully engaged and that decisions are taken in the best, long-term interests of the Charity and that the Board takes collective ownership.
• Lead 8 meetings annually.
• Support and supervise the Chief Executive and act as a channel of communication between the board and the Chief Executive.
• Act as a figurehead for the charity e.g. representing the organisation at events, meetings or in the press.
• Lead on the development of the board, making sure that its decisions are carried out.
• Liaise with the CEO and the Board to keep an overview of the charity’s affairs.
• Protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
• Take urgent action (but not decision-making unless authorized) between board meetings when it isn’t possible or practical to hold a meeting.
• Sit on appointment and disciplinary panels as required and liaise with the CEO to develop the board of trustees.
• Safeguard the good name and values of the charity.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration.
• Ensure the financial stability of the charity.
• A willingness to devote necessary time and effort to your duties as Chair and be available and responsive to trustees and others for contact between meetings.

The duties of a Trustee are to:

• Ensure that CLAPA complies with its constitution/memorandum and articles of association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• Ensure that CLAPA pursues its objects as defined in its governing document
• Ensure CLAPA applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those organisations are
• Contribute actively to the board in giving firm strategic direction to CLAPA, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions and adhere to the Trustee Code of Conduct. Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect.
• Safeguard the good name and values of CLAPA
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of CLAPA
• Protect and manage the property of CLAPA and ensure the proper investment of CLAPA’s funds
• Contribute to the broader promotion of CLAPA’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.
• Appoint the Chief Executive and monitor their performance
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Personal empathy for our vision and mission.

The role of a Trustee is a significant undertaking. Learn more about CLAPA and being a Trustee in the recruitment pack.

Choice International is a non-profit organisation promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in the UK and overseas. It researches, develops and implements development projects for disabled people and other disadvantaged people in the UK and overseas.

We are seeking a Fundraising Volunteer to support with writing funding proposals, completing funding applications to trusts and foundations as well as contacting corporates for sponsorship for events and one-off projects. You will work form our office based in East London to support with raising funds for our events and organisation in the long term.

Your Key responsibilities will include:

- Assisting with researching and approaching corporate entities, national and international, for event sponsorships, partnerships, Charity of the Year partnerships, and donations from corporate foundations

- Assisting with writing and delivering compelling presentations and proposals for funding to trusts, foundations and other institutes

- Writing emails and speaking with potential partners over the phone about the work of Choice with the aim of securing funds for the organisation.

You will have the following skills and experience:

- A good level of  written and oral communication

- Experience of writing funding proposals and working in fundraising would be an advantage

- Knowledge of corporate fundraising techniques including Charity of the Year, sponsorship, donations, marketing would be an advantage

- An ability to present and engage potential partners/sponsors in a compelling way

We are seeking a motivated and talented volunteer to support us in this role.

Working in a small team, you will be supporting Choice Directors, and will have responsibility for corporate, major donor and other fundraising. You will get involved with some of the largest grant funders in the UK, including the Big Lottery, Comic Relief, London Council and others.

The ideal candidate must have good written communication skills, with experience of writing funding proposals, as well as being motivated to develop a career in fundraising for a good cause.

Further, you should be able to work under your own initiative. We provide a wide array of training, development and guidance for our volunteers. Most importantly, you will have the opportunity to support development projects to improve the quality of life of marginalised people.If you are passionate about equality, diversity and international development and keen to gain valuable, hands-on experience, then we would like to hear from you.Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid position, with a possibility of contributing to the cost of travel from your home to our office.

Please note due to the volume of applications we receive we are unable to respond to all applicants, hence only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

As a Planning Volunteer for England's leading countryside charity supporting the existing team, use your investigative skills on planning applications which affect Londerers' access to green spaces and help us to influence positive, environmentally friendly outcomes.You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to national consultations and policy development.

The roles are accountable to the CPRE London Campaigns Officer. They are home-based with occasional attendance at meetings. We hope that you will be able to contribute 2 days each month to suit your availability. Our team will provide you with training and support to develop in your role.

This role would suit anyone with an interest in and knowledge of the planning system and environmental issues. CPRE London is dedicated to greening the city, sharing countryside's beauty, tranquillity, and accessibility. Volunteer with us to aid London in becoming carbon-neutral by 2030, boosting biodiversity, and enhancing life for wildlife and residents.

What will you be doing: 

• Investigating planning applications with an impact on London’s green spaces
• Preparing and submitting responses to influence the outcome of planning applications and appeals
• Visiting the local planning offices and proposed development sites to look at plans and record details
• Liaising with parish and district councils and other conservation bodies
• Seeking to influence local and neighbourhood plans
• Building relationships with local organisations to influence their management plans
• Liaising with the planning team and policy committee at National CPRE to contribute to consultations and policy development
• Proactively investigating the planning designation of green spaces in your local area to find out whether there is scope to strengthen these in order to better protect these sites for future generations.

What are we looking for: Skills / Experience

• An eye for detail and an interest in investigative work
• Knowledge of planning and environmental issues is essential 
• Some previous experience in the planning sector and knowledge of the planning system would be helpful in this role
• Good local knowledge of one of these London boroughs: Barking & Dagenham, Redbridge, Newham, Haringey, Enfield, Harrow, Hillingdon, Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, Hammersmith & Fulham, Wandsworth, Lambeth, Hackney, Camden, Brent, Ealing, Hounslow, Merton, Sutton, Croydon, City of London, Lewisham, Greenwich, Bexley, Havering,
• A willingness to visit the local planning office and proposed development sites
• Able to carry out tasks independently and as part of a team
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Access to a computer and the internet at home and be comfortable using them

Benefits of the role:

• Use your skills and experience to contribute to the success of our charity and make a positive impact on London’s environment 
• Meet like-minded people and enjoy being part of a team
• Enhance your CV by developing new skills and gaining valuable experience
• We’ll support you to develop in your volunteering role and provide you with relevant training
• We’ll give you a reference for your future work or volunteering
• Get involved with social events and workshops on a local and national level, including the annual CPRE conference
• The opportunity to attend a volunteer induction day at CPRE’s national office in London or a regional centre
• We are happy to provide out-of-pocket travel expenses

We're looking for a reliable and motivated person to join The New Normal as a Volunteer Operational Assistant. This role is supporting the Operational Lead with tasks related to the day to day running of the Charity.

Hours: 3hrs per week (minimum) 

Days:        Flexible 

Essential: Time and capacity to commit reliably each week. 

                  Excellent skills in organisation, communication and time management. 

                  Very good administrative skills. 

Preferable: Experience in administrative or secretarial role/tasks. 

It is essential that the person is able to provide a minimum of 3hrs per week and have good administrative and organisational skills. More than one person may be appointed. Please see full job description provided.

We welcome persons from all backgrounds and pathways to apply, and we use the anonymous recruitment feature to avoid unconscious bias. A DBS check is required for all staff and volunteers due to the nature of our work.

[Please note that this is an unpaid role and is remote-working.]

The New Normal is a growing UK-based charity that connects adults through their experience of grief and mental health, providing space to discuss these issues through non-judgmental peer group support. Our mission is not only to provide this space but to train existing communities to support each other.

Volunteers are the life blood of our charity: we could not provide the support we do without them.

Ensure Barawak operates smoothly and meets its goals by overseeing our governance and performance reporting. As the lead, you'll organize important activities and track our progress, helping us stay aligned with our mission.

Introduction to the Governance, Secretariat & Performance Reporting Lead Role

Are you passionate about keeping things in order and making sure everyone's working together smoothly? As the lead of the Governance, Secretariat & Performance Reporting team, you'll be like the conductor of an orchestra, making sure every part of our charity hits the right notes at the right time. Your work helps us stay true to our mission, making sure we're doing things the right way and always getting better. You'll work closely with the folks who guide Barawak—our trustees and advisors—and you'll help our programme and verticals leaders shine by tracking how well their services are doing and giving them the information they need to make smart decisions.

Keep Us on Track: You'll be organising all the important meetings for our trustees and advisors, making agendas, and keeping actions and decisions logs, so we never miss a beat. You’ll make sure that everything we do follows our rules and the law.

Watch Our Progress: You'll keep an eye on our goals, collecting info on how many people we're helping, how our events are going, and how we're managing our money. Then you’ll put this all into monthly and annual reports that help us understand if we're on the right path. 

Help Us Improve: You'll present feedback from the people we serve and our team, gathered by the programme and vertical leads, to find ways we can do better. You're all about using what we learn to make sure Barawak keeps growing stronger and helping more people.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Governance and Compliance Oversight: Ensure that all activities within Barawak adhere to the highest standards of governance and compliance, as set by our trustees and in accordance with relevant regulations and laws. Develop and maintain a comprehensive set of policies and procedures that are the foundation of our operational excellence.

2. Secretariat Functions: Act as the primary point of contact for trustees and advisors, managing communications, preparing meeting agendas, and ensuring the accurate recording of actions and decisions. Your meticulous attention to detail and planning will ensure the smooth running of board meetings and the timely dissemination of information.

3. Performance Reporting: Lead the development and implementation of a robust performance reporting framework. You will work closely on behalf of the trustees, with the advisors, programme and vertical leads to establish and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), providing insights and reports that drive strategic decisions and demonstrate our impact to stakeholders and the community we serve.

4. Cross-functional Coordination: Facilitate and report on the monthly programme reviews with the Board of Trustees, quarterly advisory meetings, and annual general meetings. Your role involves supporting the programme and verticals leads to synthesize information from the services and verticals to provide a cohesive picture of Barawak's progress and challenges.

5. Continuous Improvement: Champion the use of feedback mechanisms, including surveys and community input, to refine our programmes and initiatives. You will play a critical role in reviewing and adapting our strategies based on performance data, ensuring continuous improvement in our pursuit of excellence.

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.

This position is open to anyone interested in Friends of the Earth and its local campaigns in the borough of Camden. We are looking for someone to support our campaigns.

Duties

Most common duties:

• Partnering with other local groups in Camden.

• Building local support though online petitions, leafleting in our event etc.

• Engaging with our local politicians.

• Mobilizing at key moments with groups and organizations across the country e.g. Days of Action.

• Working with our social media manager to promote the campaign.

• Including in our monthly newsletter any updates on the campaign.

Person specification

Essential:

• Min 18 years old.

• Strong commitment or interest in environmental issues.

• Own or have access to a laptop and/or smartphone.

Desirable

• Strong personal and communication skills.

• Good organization skills and a  collaborative mindset.

• Previous experience in events or related roles is advantageous

Are you a qualified Self-Defence Instructor and would like to teach others how to protect themselves? The ability to defend yourself increases your self-esteem and boosts confidence as well as keeps you emotionally and physically fit.

What you will be doing

• Planning weekly 1:1 or small group sessions
• Encouraging others to get involved
• Teaching the art of self defence and how to safely protect yourself

The skills you need

• Qualified Self-defence instructor
• Good communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages participation.
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

EnhanceAble’s mission is to impact positively on the lives of local disabled people and their families through the provision of excellent social care.  We pride ourselves on going the extra mile in provision of service and placing our customers at the centre of our work.

EnhanceAble is a medium sized charity in the social care sector.  We have a turn over of circa. £2 million per annum.  We have a Board of Trustees, and a Senior Management Team (SMT) consisting of our Chief Executive, Deputy Chief Executive, Head of Finance and HR Manager.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that EnhanceAble achieves its core  purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity.  They also ensure that EnhanceAble has a clear strategy and that our work and  goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the  executive team to enable  EnhanceAble] to grow and thrive, and through this, to achieve our mission. 

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act  as a group and not as individuals.

Duties Include: 

• Support and provide advice on EnhanceAble’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of new strategies

• Oversee EnhanceAble’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation

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

• Review and approve EnhanceAble’s financial statements.

• Provide support and challenge to EnhanceAble’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

• Keep abreast of changes in EnhanceAble’s operating environment. 

• Contribute to regular reviews of EnhanceAble’s own governance.

•  Attend  Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect EnhanceAble’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

• Contribute to the broader promotion of EnhanceAble]’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

What we are 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.

You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction  and training.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation. 

• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgment and work effectively as a board member.

• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. 

• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

• Willingness to lead according to our values.

• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity,  objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

• Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term of office, renewal for 3 further terms to a maximum of 9 years.

• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

• Attending 4  Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held in person at our head office in KT1 2TW 

• Attending circa 4 other meetings or event during any year

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:

As a Personal Assistant within the Directors' Support Team, you will play a pivotal role in facilitating the efficient functioning of the Directorship. This is a volunteer position, requiring a commitment to our mission and a keen desire to contribute to the success of Quilombo UK.

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

• Conduct comprehensive research on various topics relevant to Quilombo UK's mission and initiatives.

• Analyse and synthesise information to provide insightful reports and recommendations to the Directors.

• Work closely with the Directors to understand their priorities and preferences.

• Assist in the preparation of briefings and communications, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and alignment with organisational objectives.

• Receive and interpret directives from the Directors, translating them into actionable tasks.

• Collaborate with relevant teams to drive outcomes and ensure timely completion of tasks.

• Manage the Directors' schedules, appointments, and travel arrangements.

• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.

Essential:

• Experience in a similar role, preferably supporting senior executives or Directors.

• Proven ability to conduct thorough research, analyse data, and present findings in a clear and concise manner.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft professional and articulate documents.

• Demonstrated experience in taking directives, converting them into actions, and delivering outcomes.

• Proactive mindset with the ability to anticipate needs and take initiative in a fast-paced environment.

• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team and contribute to a positive working environment.

• Willingness to volunteer time and effort to support the mission and goals of Quilombo UK.

• 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 we offer:

• Online placement

• Opportunity for professional growth and development in PA. 

• 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.

Do you have a passion for knitting and would like to share your skills with others? We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Knitting Volunteer to facilitate a Knitting group in one of our Domestic Abuse refuges. Knitting is good way to relieve stress, increase confidence and create a sense of purpose.

What you will be doing

• Supporting others to improve their knitting skills and adhere to all abilities
• Facilitate a fun and enjoyable interactive group
• Maintain strict confidentiality and good working relationships

The skills you need

• Good interpersonal & communication skills to give instructions clearly to service user
• Kind and patient nature
• Interest and experience in knitting
• Helpful and motivating attitude with a supportive approach

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun