Communications And Events Volunteer Roles in Liverpool, Merseyside

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

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.

Job description

Our Volunteer Champions are a vital part of our work, as they help us to raise awareness with local communities and with new audiences.

What is the role of a Volunteer Champion? 

As a regional Volunteer Champion, you will help us raise awareness of BPD and support our work in your local community. You will promote volunteering, and the benefits of volunteering, with the people of your local community. You will act as an ambassador for the organisation.

Some key responsibilities include:

• Championing volunteering in your local area 
• Being the first point of contact for volunteers in your area 
• Connecting with your local volunteer organisations 
• Posting volunteer roles in your community 
• Giving talks in the community and online 
• Connecting with our social media platforms 
• Creating social media posts of activities in your community 
• Take part in our campaigns 

Why Should I Get Involved? 

From enhancing your CV and learning new skills to building confidence and teamwork, there are lots of reasons why volunteering with us as a Volunteer Champion can be beneficial.

• Join a community of volunteers who are united in supporting our mission
• Get involved with your local community, creating opportunities to connect with new people and engage with your local community.
• Make a difference in the lives of people with borderline personality disorder, your involvement will help us to reach more people in need of support.
• The Volunteer Champion role can enhance your CV as you will be engaging with different audiences to promote our services, create content and develop new skills.

Who can be a Volunteer Champion? 

If you are interested in, and passionate about, volunteering and would like to be part of our program, you can sign up as a Volunteer Champion today! 

How much time does a Volunteer Champion commit? 

You can get involved in whatever way feels right for you! This is a flexible and self-led role which is part of a wider network.

We do ask that you attend four online sessions per year to connect and network with the full Volunteer Champion network.

What can you expect from us? 

All Volunteer Champions receive:

• An induction, training for your role and ongoing support 
• A welcome pack including useful resources and digital assets 
• Regular updates, calls to action and communication 
• Opportunities to connect, network and attend exclusive online events with other Volunteer Champions 

How to become a Volunteer Champion  

If being a Volunteer Champion sounds like something you would like to be involved in, apply today so that we can start you on your journey supporting us. 

Next Steps 

Once we receive your application we will invite you to an open evening to find out more about the role. The open evening will be 7pm on Tuesday 18th June and will be held over Teams. After the open evening, we will introduce you to the rest of the team and get you started on volunteering with us. 

The Cleft Lip & Palate Association (CLAPA) is looking for a new Treasurer who can use their skills to ensure our charity’s financial viability. 

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 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. Find out more.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity. This covers the development of 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 responsibility of the Treasurer is to maintain an overview of the charity’s affairs, ensuring its financial viability and that the charity has policies and systems in place to ensure robust financial planning, implementation and reporting.

Specific financial duties:

• To draw any major financial concerns to the attention of the Board of Trustees and Senior Management Team in a timely manner.
• To review the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plans and Board decisions.
• To support the review of the reserves and risk management policies in relation to finance, ensuring the Board of Trustees is regularly kept updated.
• To ensure that appropriate accounting policies and procedures are in place and adhered to and reporting any significant issues to the Board.
• To present the Annual report and audit to the Board, and the Treasurer’s report to each Board meeting to ensure that the Board is aware of the current financial status of the organisation.
• To work with CLAPAs Senior Management Team and external auditors on financial issues and ensure that the organisation’s finances are responsibly managed for the betterment of the organisation’s work and for the beneficiaries it serves.
• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
• To implement a robust long-term Finance Strategy and Investment Strategy in line with the charity’s objectives and growth.
• Advising on the financial implications of the organisation’s strategic plans.
• Ensuring that the charity has appropriate reserves and investment policies.
• Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place.
• Being assured that the financial resources of the charity meet its present and future needs.
• Ensuring that there is no conflict between any investment held and the aims and object, policies and legal responsibilities of the charity.

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 charity.
• 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.

We're recruiting up to 3 new Trustees to lead Sing Inside through the next stages of our development.

Role purpose: to bring vision and leadership to the charity, provide good governance and review our performance against our strategic objectives within the charity’s mission, vision and values and charitable objects.

Reporting to: Chair of trustees

Location: Remote, but attendance of prison visits is encouraged. Board meetings happen largely online, with hopefully more in-person meetings in the future (expenses covered).

Time Commitment: Quarterly board meetings for approximately 2 hours, preparation time reading papers and responding to emails. Other time commitments by agreement e.g. committees, working groups etc.

Remuneration: Voluntary role. Reasonable expenses and training as agreed.

Terms of Office: 3 year term, maximum 2 x terms served (6 years total).

About Sing Inside

Sing Inside provides group singing workshops in prisons across England and Wales, bringing local volunteers together with people in prison to form community choirs. We enable all participants to enjoy singing with others free from judgement or assessment, inspiring hope and confidence, and facilitating connection to others. We train confident, inspiring community music leaders who deliver engaging, accessible singing sessions. We prioritise enjoyment in our approach to increase confidence, promote teamwork and encourage participants to recognise their individual contribution to a shared goal. 

Sing Inside began as a grassroots student volunteering project, registering as a CIO in March 2019. We have grown to work nationally, with our Trustees and small staff team overseeing three established local committees of volunteers in Cambridge, Oxford and York, as well as other work across the country. Local committees support the staff team to organise visits in their area, tailoring our approach to local community needs and interests and effectively recruit volunteers and boost engagement. Our local volunteer committees are supported and trained by staff to create a strong network of prison partnerships under the Sing Inside umbrella. 

Where are we now?

ollowing Covid-19 restrictions stopping Sing Inside’s work entirely in prisons, we have rebuilt our relationships and our understanding of how the prison environment and need for our work has changed.

Staff Team

Until 2023, we were entirely volunteer-led. We then made the decision to instate a part-time Chief Executive role as a salaried post, to put the charity on a more sustainable and balanced footing. We then recruited a Programme Manager to oversee existing work with committees and visits. At the start of 2024, our first Chief Executive, one of the founding volunteer members of Sing Inside, stepped away and we recruited a new Chief Executive to help lead Sing Inside into its next stage of development. We are supported by a freelance bid writer and a variety of volunteers providing advice and guidance.

Trustees

Two of our founding Trustees when we registered as a CIO are reaching the end of their second terms in June 2024, as well as several Trustees stepping away at the end of their first terms due to changing personal circumstances. We are delighted that two other founding volunteer members have become Trustees which leaves us in a good position of retaining historical information and expertise combined with new Trustees and skills we wish to recruit.

What We Need

We are looking for up to 3 new Trustees to join 4 other Trustees, making a Board of up to 7. Following a Spring 2024 skills audit, we have identified a need for the following skills and experience on our Board: strategic and change management, finance, marketing, grant fundraising, community fundraising, HR, lived experience of prison environment.

Join us in distributing essential food supplies and providing crucial housing support to those in need. As the Poverty Relief Programme Lead at Barawak, you will drive efforts to uplift and stabilise our community through dynamic voluntary engagement.

Welcome to Barawak 

Barawak is the first UK-registered charitable organisation dedicated to uplifting and empowering the Afro-Hebrew community in the UK.We understand the unique challenges faced by our community, and we are here to provide support, resources, and opportunities to help overcome these hurdles.

Our vision is to see our community thrive, free from the burdens of poverty and inequality. We're here to bring this vision to life by providing essential support and resources that uplift and empower every individual and family.

Our Purpose 

At Barawak, our mission is clear: to address and alleviate the immediate and long-term challenges faced by our community. We're dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to the essentials – from food and toiletries to vital services. But our goals go beyond just meeting basic needs. We are also here to open doors to new opportunities through education and skill-building, helping our community members to stand tall and secure a better future for themselves and their families.

Our Commitment

At Barawak, we’re driven by four key goals to uplift our Afro-Hebrew community:

1. Alleviating Poverty: We’re here to give more than just immediate help. Our support includes essential items and help with basic needs, aimed at long-term financial stability for our community.

2. Empowering Through Education: Education and skills are keys to opening doors. We offer practical workshops and mentoring in financial smarts, job skills, and more, to spark economic opportunities.

3. Fostering Harmony and Diversity: We celebrate our rich Afro-Hebrew culture and encourage understanding across communities. Our work strengthens community bonds and enriches cultural events.

4. Promoting Health with Sports: Good health is vital. We offer sports and wellness activities that boost both body and mind, helping everyone feel part of something bigger.

In all we do, helping out, sticking together, and staying strong guide us. By the grace of our God, we're not just making today better — we're shaping a brighter, more hopeful community and future for us all.

Our Team

Currently, our team consists of dedicated trustees and advisors who are laying the groundwork for a robust volunteer organisation. We are in the process of expanding our team to include passionate, committed individuals who share our vision and are eager to make a real difference in the community.

Joining Our Cause

As a volunteer at Barawak, you'll be part of a meaningful journey to support and enrich the lives of those in our community. We value every contribution, and we provide a supportive environment where your skills and dedication can truly flourish. Whether you're leading a service or a vertical, assisting with operations or reporting, your role at Barawak is crucial to our collective success and your help will go a long way to helping us reach our strategic goals.

Role Description

Introduction to the Poverty Relief Programme at Barawak:

Barawak’s Poverty Relief Programme is a cornerstone of our mission to support and uplift the Afro-Hebrew community in the UK. It directly aligns with our fundamental objective of alleviating poverty and hardship among our community members and our strategy for poverty relief, which is to provide essential aid and support, focusing on the immediate effects of poverty while promoting long-term financial stability. This service line is designed to provide immediate aid in the form of food distribution and discretionary housing support, addressing the urgent needs of those most vulnerable.This approach not only aligns with Barawak's mission to relieve hardship but also embodies our vision of a thriving community where each individual has the necessary resources to overcome socio-economic challenges.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plan and execute the Poverty Relief Strategy and service line to alleviate poverty within the Afro-Hebrew community, focusing on providing both direct and indirect support to individuals in need.

• Annual food distribution: Oversee the annual distribution of food, ensuring efficient and effective delivery to those in need.

• Housing Support: Provide discretionary advice and signposting for housing support needs.

2. Measure performance: Keep accurate count of the number of individuals and families receiving food aidand/or assisted with housing support. 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 food resources for distribution – or acquire discretionary housing advice and signposting.

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

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

• Marketing Outreach & Advocacy: work with this team to to enhance visibility of the poverty relief service 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, strategyand objectives. Collaborate on monitoring and evaluation efforts to assess Poverty Relief 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.

To apply, email your CV by 1 May 2024, clearly stating in the Subject Line the role you are applying for.

Are you passionate about mental health and helping those struggling with body image issues and related disorders? Been There, a start-up mental health charity, is currently seeking a safeguarding trustee to join our dedicated team.

What will you be doing?

Job Summary:

As a safeguarding trustee, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our service users. You will work closely with our staff and volunteers to implement safeguarding policies and procedures, provide guidance and support, and help to create a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic

• Consider the organisation’s strategic plans and make sure they reflect safeguarding legislation and expectations of the Charities Commission.
• Work with the CEO and DSL regularly to review and ensure charity policies are creating a safer culture and keeping people safe.
• Check the organisation’s risk register reflects safeguarding risks properly and plans sensible measures to take.
• Make sure there is space on the agenda for safeguarding reports and help trustees understand and challenge those reports.

Effective policy and practice

• Make sure there is a 6 monthly review of safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Understand the monitoring your charity does to see whether policies and procedures are effective.
• Learn from case reviews locally and nationally, to improve your organisation’s policies/procedures.
• Oversee safeguarding allegations against staff or volunteers, together with CEO and DSL.
• Be a point of contact for staff or volunteers if someone wishes to complain about a lack of action in relation to safeguarding concerns.

Creating the right culture

• Champion safeguarding throughout the organisation.
• Attend relevant safeguarding training events (virtually)
• Support the trustees in developing their individual and collective understanding of safeguarding.
• Support regular safeguarding updates for staff, volunteers and beneficiaries.
• Make sure you have ways of gathering the views of staff and volunteers in relation to safeguarding and sharing these with the board.

What are we looking for?

• Qualifications and Experience:

- 5+ years experience in safeguarding, ideally within a mental health/charity setting (essential)

- Previous trustee/governance experience is not essential but would be desirable.

- Knowledge of relevant safeguarding legislation/policies/procedures.

- Commitment to promoting positive body image and mental well-being.

- Understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals with body image issues and related disorders would be beneficial.

- Skills: Strong strategic thinking, leadership, and decision-making abilities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

- Commitment: Ability to commit time for board meetings, committee involvement, and preparation work. Expected to attend quarterly board meetings and contribute to special projects as needed

What difference will you make?

Been There is a charity in the form of an app that connects people aged 18 and over with a vetted and trained mentor to help with any body image issues they may be experiencing. This gives them the opportunity to speak to someone who has ‘Been There’ themselves. Our Mentors are here to support, empower and, most importantly, listen.

The Trustees are a core part of the team and very hands on. We have a tight knit team, and your governance support will ensure we are always acting in the best interests of our service users and team.

How to Apply:

To apply for the Safeguarding Trustee position at Been There Mental Health Charity, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the role.

We look forward to welcoming a dedicated individual to our team and making a difference in the lives of those we support.

Midland Mencap is a charity which works and campaigns for accessible and inclusive services and a better quality of life for everyone with experience of learning disabilities and additional needs

Purpose of the role

With your friendly attitude and knowledge of the local area, you could be the support a Midland Mencap citizen needs to access and enjoy their local community and make a big difference to their lives.

Some of our citizens may be dealing with a variety of difficulties including depression, isolation, physical and mental health problems, Your role will be to help them to enjoy their local community in the way that they want; this may include activities such as going shopping, attending an event, visiting a park or a local facility – and having fun.

What would I be doing?

·Visit a Midland Mencap citizen

·Accompany them to agreed community locations and activities

·Provide a befriending support role to ensure the citizen enjoys a positive experience

·    To record and maintain basic records as required

·To ensure the activities undertaken complies with safeguarding, equal opportunities, health & safety and other policies and the guidelines provided by Midland Mencap.

What do I need?

· Being approachable and friendly

· Good communication skills

· Knowledge of, and able to travel to local places

· Accepting of others who might be different to you and the ability to work as part of a diverse team

· A willingness to learn and act within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· Good time management skills, reliability

· An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.

When and where do you need me?

· A minimum of 2 visits per month

· Days and times are flexible and agreed in advance, but there may be some specific activities the citizen wishes to attend

· In the local community

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

· The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and their family carers

· An induction and settling in period

· Any training and development that is needed

· The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

· The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

· Support within your role

· Any out-of-pocket travel expenses

· Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

· Positive wellbeing from doing something great

· Improve career opportunities by adding your volunteer role to a CV and ask us for a reference

Volunteer - Homeline’s tele-befriending service!

Do you have an hour to spare each week? Want a simple remote volunteer role you can fit around your busy life?

Look no further! Homeline is a befriending project for older people in Hammersmith and Fulham.

We are looking for volunteers to remotely call a few isolated older adults per week. These calls make such a difference and are often the only phone call a person will receive all week!

A flexible role ideal for volunteers who work during the week and have less time to commit. Join our friendly team and enjoy the benefits of full role training, DBS and continued support.

Get in touch, join our friendly team and enjoy the benefits of full role training, DBS and continued support.

Do you want to take part in vegan volunteering around your local area?

You can do that – right here at The Vegan Society. 

We have an ever-growing Community Network of vegans just like you, who have a passion to volunteer and promote veganism where they live. 

Every month, our Network choose from a range of outreach tasks. These could include town centre stalls, writing to a councillor or MP, sharing our campaigns on social media or contacting local businesses. You're in control of how much or how little you do. 

As an Advocate, you will have a network of other Advocates and an Organiser in your area. Your Organiser will be your main point of contact. They will send you tasks every month and ask you to feed back on what you've completed and any positive outcomes. 

Why do we need you to volunteer?

As the vegan community grows, veganism itself becomes better understood. We're finding that more people are looking to The Vegan Society to find out what being vegan is all about.

Local communities are starting to see the vegan movement as something real and something that’s happening in their area. More people are embracing a vegan lifestyle, which we welcome. From new businesses, to families, to councillors, many people need support. This could be with a range of topics: going vegan, finding correct information around a vegan diet, providing vegan options in their business, MPs listening to vegan constituents, and learning about our work.

Local issues are often unique and more varied than national issues. Our volunteers from local areas are vital! They enable us to share our messages and campaigns in an effective way. Research tells us that people are far more likely to trust information from a peer rather than an outside expert, so community volunteering vastly increases the impact of our campaigns.

Our network of committed local vegans across the country is growing! The Vegan Society organises various outreach activities to influence change in every level of society. There are a range of activities going on all the time, from general educational stalls at events to meeting with local policy influencers.

Advocates are a crucial voice in their own community. They ensure that our campaign messages are spread far and wide. They provide a strong vegan presence in local communities.

What does the Advocate role involve?

Being an Advocate for veganism with The Vegan Society will mean communicating with people in your local community. You'll share the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. You will form part of a local group, headed up by a local Organiser. The Organiser will feed back your collective efforts to staff. You will also be invited to our private Facebook group, for vegan socialising and ideas sharing.

You’ll stay in touch with the Organiser and bring your passion to tasks. Activities can range from staffing a stall to giving a talk at an employee event. It could also mean writing to a local newspaper or lobbying an MP.

Messaging can differ every month. Part of our mission statement is to ensure people can remain vegan, so you might focus on getting more vegan options available in local businesses. Or within our Live Vegan for Less campaign, you may share cheap vegan recipes to help people with the cost of living.

When acting as an Advocate, you will use The Vegan Society’s branding and messaging guidelines. Your local Organiser will guide you in doing this, as they hold physical resources and handbooks. You can report any issues and feedback you have to your Organiser. You can also contact staff if your Organiser isn't available or you have any problems.

What training and support is available?

You will be provided with a big welcome and full induction from your local Organiser. They will introduce you to the group and any actions that are ongoing. Any training and development will be provided via your Organiser, and you can also ask for specific training on any areas that you need some development in.

What skills would be useful in doing this role?

• The ability to stay motivated in order to achieve the best possible outcomes
• Good email etiquette, responding in a timely manner
• Committed to veganism and the mission of The Vegan Society
• Ability to stay calm if confronted with differing opinions or challenges
• A good communicator, with the ability to be persuasive
• Confident in communicating with people from a range of backgrounds
• Experience of campaigning
• Any experience in talking with members of the public through customer/public service would be helpful
• Awareness of current affairs, especially those that relate to veganism
• Regular availability and a willingness to stay committed to actions
• Good team player

How much time do I need to invest? 

For Advocates, we ask for people to engage in a minimum of four to six actions per year. An example of an action could be writing to an MP or holding a stall. But the more you can do, the better! On occasion, there may also be online meetings to plan for actions or provide training.

Are you excited by Birthrights’ ambitions to work towards long term, systemic change that empowers women and birthing people? This is an exciting time to join our organisation as we embark on a new 10-year strategy. 

Birthrights was founded in 2013 with the understanding that at the heart of the poor experiences and outcomes of maternity care for so many, is a consistent failure to listen to the voices of women and birthing people and a complete disregard for their fundamental human rights. Our work has never been more urgent. 

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. In particular, we are keen to hear from candidates with specialist skills in the following areas:

Finance, with a view to taking on the role of Treasurer

Fundraising

Legal ideally in the Human Rights field

HR

Campaigning

As a trustee you will work with a dynamic and passionate team of Trustees and Employees who champion the rights of women and birthing people. Come and join our small and caring team of change makers!

Our Board of Trustees meets quarterly, mostly virtually but we like to meet 1-2 times in person either in London or the midlands (as this is nearest to where most are currently based).

We would love for you to apply for this role which you can do by visiting our website and downloading the trustee recruitment pack for the full information about the role, the requirements, the person specification and more. The details of how to apply for the role are also contained within this pack.

If you would like to find out more about Birthrights and becoming a trustee, please register to attend one of our online information sessions on:

Tuesday 4 June, 12.30 - 1.30

Wednesday 12 June, 18.30 - 19.30  

Please visit our website to book your place!

Depending on the number of applications received, we may bring the closing date forward. We therefore encourage early applications.

Chair of the Board of Trustees, Alternatives to Violence Project Britain

The Alternatives to Violence Project is a network of skilled volunteers who run workshops for anyone who wants to find ways of resolving conflict without resorting to violence. We work in the community and in prisons.

What difference will you make?

The Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) serves people who want to handle conflict well without using or suffering violence, whether physical or psychological. Our trained volunteer facilitators deliver intensive, low-cost, conflict-resolution skills workshops in the community, in prisons and in other settings. We reach diverse communities, attracting people from across a wide spectrum of ages, ethnic backgrounds, and socio-economic backgrounds.

What will you be doing?

The overall role of the chair is to lead the Board as it sets strategic direction and oversees the good governance of the charity. You will be responsible for ensuring that the organisation is following correct governance and meeting its charitable obligations.

This is an active role, where time will need to be invested regularly outside of meetings to support this small charity.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, duties of the Chair include the following:

• Providing leadership to the organisation and the board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes to provide greater public benefit

• Chairing and facilitating board meetings

• Giving direction to board policy-making

• Checking that decisions taken at meetings are implemented

• Representing the organisation at functions and meetings, and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate

• Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making

• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required, for example annual general meeting

• Organise & run board and other general meetings

• Developing the board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning

• Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation, and liaising with the chief executive to achieve this

• Working closely with paid stuff to ensure charity stays on track vs it's objectives

What are we looking for?

We are looking for an individual who will be committed to AVPB cause and has the following skills:

• Leadership skills

• Experience of committee work

• Tact and diplomacy

• Good communication and interpersonal skills

• Impartiality, fairness and ability to resolve differences

It would be a significant advantage if you have experience of chairing a trustee board or comparable body. (e.g Chair of School Governors, Parish or Town Council Chair etc). Also advantageous would be a background in health or social care.

Where you will be working

London, N1 6HT

Mainly at home, or remote opportunity.

All our board meetings are currently held online. We can occasionally gather for an annual event.

Time

Mostly outside office hours

Estimate of time needed:

1-3 hours / week

Term

 Our trustees’ roles have initial term of three years, with the possibility of renewal for further 3 years.

Remuneration

The role of the Chair is not accompanied by any financial remuneration.

Before you apply

Please submit your CV along with a short covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills would add value to the board.

We are currently at a very exciting stage of the organisation’s development, having recently appointed a new CEO. This is an opportunity to contribute to our new strategy, building on over 20 years’ work towards ending domestic abuse and re-defining our role to maximise our impact for survivors and families.

As society changes, our work has never been more complex nor more essential to transform the response to domestic abuse. We are reaching out to all communities, especially those marginalised with a differential experience of accessing services, support, and treatment. We work with partners to ensure that services are free from all inequality and discrimination.

The Board of Trustees are a vital part of our SafeLives community. The Board is responsible for the charity’s strategy and supporting the growth and viability of the organisation. Through their expertise and knowledge, trustees oversee the delivery of our strategic and operational aims, always with an unwavering focus on our mission and purpose.

We are now looking for three new trustees to join the SafeLives Board. As well as bringing new expertise, we want candidates who bring a range and breadth of experience and who may represent the voices we are missing.

We are looking for people with skills, expertise, and knowledge in the following areas:

• Strategy
• Fundraising and income generation
• People and Culture, with experience of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
• Digital transformation and Technology
• Government, Policy, and System Change

If you feel you don’t have enough expertise in the above areas but are driven to support our mission and believe you can make a valuable contribution, we will welcome a conversation with you.

We are a national charity, and much of our work is done remotely so we want to attract candidates from all UK nations.

This is an unremunerated position, but reasonable expenses are eligible for reimbursement.

To apply, please upload your CV or an extended biography together with a short supporting statement by the 21st of June 2024. Please ensure that your application fully addresses the requirements for the role. We ask for the names, positions, organisations, and telephone contact numbers of two referees, relevant to this role. References will only be taken once your express permission has been granted.

There will be two interviews for the positions. One will take place online and one in person, with the opportunity to meet staff members.

The dates are scheduled for: 1st Interview w/c 8th July in London, 2nd Interview w/c 15th July in Bristol.

Could you help your local SSAFA branch recruit volunteers in your area? You just some basic I.T and admin skills, patience, the ability to get on with a wide range of people and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be the role for you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Recruitment Coordinator?

Recruitment Coordinators help us find local people interested in supporting SSAFA and take them through our recruitment and selection process.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

To offer the best possible service to our clients we need to match the right volunteers to the right role. Could you spare a few hours a week to help recruit new volunteers and welcome them to SSAFA by supporting them through their induction phase? We’d love to hear from you if think you could help with this important role.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The role is about recruitment and so will involve attending local recruitment fairs a few times a year as well as meeting volunteers both face-to-face and virtually. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but the administration part of the ole can be done form home.

What would you be doing?

• Be the first point of contact for all volunteering enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Supporting volunteers through the recruitment and induction process and ensuring volunteers are communicated with throughout.
• Arranging informal interviews for new volunteers conducted in-line with SSAFA policies.
• Conducting ID checks (where relevant) so the volunteer can begin the vetting process
• Supporting volunteers to book onto role specific training and ensuring they complete their mandatory training.
• Working with the VDM to ensure branch vacancies are advertised on the branch website and national websites and support any national recruitment campaigns
• Maintaining good relationships with local Volunteer Centres and other local sources of volunteer promotion and attend local recruitment fairs.
• Evaluating volunteer recruitment activity, experimenting with creative ways to recruit volunteers from a variety of sources to create a diverse network of volunteers.
• Treating all potential volunteers inclusively with respect and sensitivity, regardless of age or background
• Supporting any volunteers facing barriers to find a suitable role.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
• Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to beneficiaries as well as providing volunteering opportunities.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. This training would take approx. 3 hours.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.  
• Access to a range of e-learning courses.
• Support from the Volunteer Development Manager and Trainer (per region)
• Access to the Volunteer Experience Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people, with good listening skills, patience, and a positive attitude  
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal
• Good written and spoken English.
• Respectful and non-judgemental with potential volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to use IT systems for initial and on-going training and during the role, including accessing and responding to emails and using Microsoft offices software.
• Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to undertake training.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely., in line with SSAFA policies.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings and events and t meet volunteers.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No