Community engagement officer volunteer roles in birmingham

Title:  Communications volunteer

Summary

Help us grow and engage our audiences by creating communications materials for us to use externally and across our website, social media, print materials and newsletter, so that we can help support the mental health of more women across Sussex.

Description

Our charity delivers counselling and therapeutic groups for women across Sussex. We are looking for an experienced communications professional to work with to support with all or some of the following:

Communications:

· Help to create a communications plan with the CEO, mapping out key activities and campaigns over the year

Social media:

· Assess our current social media and make recommendations to improve content and engagement

· Design and create weekly posts and reels using Canva

· Create 1-3 social posts per week

Newsletter:

· Re-purpose key social posts for our monthly e-newsletter, using MailChimp

Outreach:

· Build a partner communication list and liaise with key organisations and share key materials with them, such as leaflets and information about our services to raise our profile

· Build contacts and reach out to potential press to raise awareness of our organisation

Events:

· Assist with fundraising events and promotion of these from the Brighton 10K run, our Christmas raffle and party.

You will be working with the CEO who will provide our existing brand/style/logo guidelines and brand research/user personas.

What impact will they have?

Your creative output will shape how we present ourselves to our clients and funders. With your help we will be able to continue to reach and support more women across Sussex.

About the volunteer

Description

We are looking for a volunteer who:

· Has experience in creating and writing communications materials such as social media posts

· Ideally has experience in Canva and MailChimp

· Has the ability to quickly understand the needs of our team / organisation / participants

· Has good communications and organisation skills

· Understands the resource constraints of a small charity and is able to work with these.

Skills

· Marketing and communications

Where and when

Location

Can be fully remote or partly remote if based near Brighton.

Time

Time commitment

· 0-6 hours / week – the role could be an ongoing role

Volunteer availability

Either inside or outside office hours.

Application details

Application instructions: please send published content examples (social, blog or e-newsletter posts) a CV and details of your availability and interest in the role 

As exciting plans for a new National Centre for Music (NCM) at Edinburgh's former Royal High School progress, we are searching for a Chair and Board of Trustees to help bring this iconic, cultural destination to life.

From our home in the former Royal High School building on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, the National Centre for Music will become an energising force in Scotland’s music sector. Through a variety of programmes and partnerships, the centre will nurture and celebrate music making from across Scotland. It will present a striking programme of music – across all genres – for audiences to enjoy within a spectacular location, as well as supporting artists and organisations to develop new projects, skills, networks and profile. Nestled within two acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens, the centre will be open every day for people to enjoy and expand their musical passions.

We are looking for around four new trustees, including a Chair, to work closely with our executive team to develop and launch the organisation -  defining the brand, setting the business model and staff team, establishing business partnerships and ensuring integration and collaboration with the music sector, as well as with Edinburgh and Scotland’s wider cultural infrastructure.

During these early years, there is expected to be five board meetings per year, plus one strategy development day. Given the nature of the project, it’s hoped trustees will offer their expertise in leading working groups and attending workshops.

As we launch ourselves as a new national player, we need fresh entrepreneurial thinking to build an innovative, resilient organisation. We are particularly seeking candidates with expertise in:

- Business development
- Brand and marketing
- EDI (Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion) 
- Finance

We also want to ensure the music community at large feels represented in our governance and welcome applications from musicians. So whether you’re an experienced Trustee or someone who has never been on a board before, if you have first-hand knowledge of the music sector in Scotland or feel truly passionate about what we’re trying to achieve, we’d love to hear from you – and we’ll make sure you feel welcome and supported.

This is a fantastic role to get involved locally and be at the forefront of solutions to help save nature in the Exeter area.

Join us as the volunteer leader of the RSPB Exeter & District Local Group and lead a group of enthusiastic members who are passionate about supporting the RSPB and exploring local wildlife. The group runs a full programme of activities, from outdoor walks and indoor talks to fundraising events. As the group leader, you will primarily lead the group and oversee the programme. You will be part of a friendly and helpful committee that share the same vision of bringing members closer to nature. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to use your leadership skills to make a valuable contribution to the work of the RSPB.

If you want to have an informal chat about the role, please ask for Richard, the current group leader. We’d love to hear from you.

HiDDEN are looking for an inspiring, forward-thinking Independent Chair to lead our growing network of heritage organisations into an exciting new chapter.

Job Description

HiDDEN is a dynamic and supportive network that champions Greater Manchester’s rare, overlooked, and underrepresented heritage. 

This voluntary leadership role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic, mission-driven network that champions the hidden stories of Greater Manchester — stories that deserve to be uncovered, celebrated, and preserved. As Chair, you will bring strategic vision, support strong governance, and act as a key advocate for the network at both regional and national levels. You’ll play a vital role in steering our growth, deepening our impact, and ensuring that inclusion, integrity, and collaboration remain at the heart of everything we do. 

Key Responsibilities

• Governance and Oversight Ensure alignment with HiDDEN’s purpose, vision, and values.
• Oversee the adherence to the HiDDEN Code of Conduct.
• Facilitate the annual review of the members’ agreement and the Code of Practice.
• Meeting Facilitation Chair bi-monthly HiDDEN planning meetings, fostering inclusive and balanced discussions. Guide decision-making processes to achieve majority consensus in line with network objectives.
• Strategic Leadership Lead the development and refinement of HiDDEN’s strategic initiatives. Advocate for the network’s sustainability, identifying opportunities for growth and impact.
• Collaborate closely with Manchester Histories, the identified organisation for project management, to ensure effective implementation of strategies and initiatives.
• External Representation and Advocacy Represent HiDDEN at national and regional conferences, events, and within the heritage sector.
• Act as an ambassador for HiDDEN, promoting its mission and objectives to external stakeholders. Build and maintain relationships with key partners and funders.
• Conflict Resolution Mediate disputes within the network, ensuring fair and transparent resolutions.
• Provide impartial guidance and support to members to maintain positive relationships.
• Evaluation and Reporting Report on network activities and outcomes at planning meetings to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Lead the process for reviewing and adjusting network goals and strategies based on the needs of the network 

Person Specification

Experience: 

• You may have gained experience in leadership, governance, or planning through a variety of paths — including study, early career roles, volunteering, activism, or community engagement. 
• A background in the heritage, cultural, or nonprofit sectors is helpful but not essential.  We value lived experience and insight into the challenges and opportunities facing small or underrepresented organisations. 
• Skills and Attributes:  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  Ability to facilitate inclusive discussions and achieve consensus. 
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. 
• Ability to act impartially and mediate conflicts. 
• Passion for heritage and a commitment to HiDDEN’s values of inclusivity, knowledge sharing, and environmental responsibility. 
• Commitment:  Willingness to commit 1-2 days per month, including participation in bi-monthly planning meetings. 
• Enthusiasm for working with a network of small to medium organisations to achieve shared goals.

About Access Academia

Access Academia is the charitable umbrella which was created out of the creation of the student-led publication, the Journal of Intersectional Social Justice. When Journal of Intersectional Social Justice (JISJ) was created, there were not any expectations for the project to be any more than that: a student-led academic publication. However, as it rolled on, attention for the project widened and it began to cover other topics and get involved in other realms of knowledge sharing, activism, and content creation. The creation of the seminal Access Series on the Intersections blog springboarded the idea for the JISJ to turn into something much more than a simple academic publication. Now as we have restructured the JISJ into Access Academia, we are finalising our official registration as a charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) in the UK. 

Our core purpose is to Make Academia More Accessible. We plan to accomplish this by many different avenues, as obviously it is a very wide-ranging goal! The main ways we plan to do this are through encouraging Open Access academia and knowledge sharing through the Access Series, expanding the themes covered on Intersections with additions such as Mental Health Mondays and Colonialism in Subject, creating accessible content across our social media platforms which encourages truthful and accurate knowledge sharing and activism, running research events to encourage students to publish and interact with academia, covering inside stories of academia, running student engagement programmes to try and make academia less of an Ivory Tower, and much more!

What is a Volunteership?

A volunteership is a unique hybrid opportunity that combines elements of volunteering and interning. Participants commit to working with a charity or nonprofit organization for a specified period of time, fulfilling a set of responsibilities and expectations. In return, they gain valuable experience, receive a letter of recommendation, and are offered LinkedIn endorsements. Additionally, they may have the chance to continue working with the charity through future hiring cycles as long as they remain a student. This experience provides both personal fulfillment through giving back to the community and professional development for future career opportunities.

Volunteership: Content Writer
Duration: May to August 2025
Eligibility: Must be currently enrolled as a student

Requirements:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate program.

• Strong interest in writing, critical analysis, and reserach.

• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills with attention to detail.

• Ability to write clear, engaging, and well-researched articles for various audiences.

• Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple writing assignments.

• Passion for contributing to social impact and supporting charitable initiatives.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Content Creation:

  • Write a minimum of 2 written articles per month for the charity’s blog, Intersections, newsletter, or other communication channels.

  • Research and produce content on topics that align with the charity’s mission and goals.

  • Produce a minimum of 1 Access Series article per month.

  • Ensure that all written materials are on-brand, consistent in tone, and relevant to the target audience.

• SEO & Optimization:

  • Apply SEO best practices to all written content to maximize reach and engagement.

  • Optimize articles for readability, clarity, and search engine visibility.

• Editing & Proofreading:

  • Review and revise your own content, as well as provide feedback on content produced by others.

  • Ensure all content is grammatically correct, coherent, and polished before publication.

• Collaboration & Teamwork:

  • Collaborate with internal teams and volunteers to ensure a consistent upload schedule.

  • Contribute and attend all meetings for the Content Creation Team and directions from the Director of Content Creation.

  • Meet all given deadlines on time and consistently.

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in content writing, storytelling, and digital marketing.

• Opportunities to build your research portfolio with real-world projects that align with a meaningful cause.

• Certification of participation at the end of the volunteership.

• A letter of recommendation upon successful completion of the volunteership.

• LinkedIn endorsements and the chance to be considered for future hiring cycles with the charity.

The Breastfeeding Network's services are essential for both families and reducing pressure on health services. We are seeking a new Treasurer to ensure we can meet increased demand.

About The Breastfeeding Network

The Breastfeeding Network (BfN) is the leading charity providing infant feeding and breastfeeding information and support that women and families trust at one of the most vulnerable points on their parenting journeys.

We work across the UK and aid women and families to feel supported in their feeding choices and are able to breastfeed for as long as they choose. 

What will you be doing?

BfN is the leading charity providing infant feeding and breastfeeding information and support that women and families trust at one of the most vulnerable points on their parenting journeys. We work across the UK and support women and families to feel supported in their feeding choices and are able to breastfeed for as long as they choose. BfN is a Scottish registered charity and a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registered at Companies House. 

The Treasurer will work closely with the Finance and Systems Manager and CEO to provide effective leadership on the financial good governance and resilience of BfN. 

 Main duties and tasks

The Treasurer has specific key responsibilities relating to their financial knowledge and experience. These include inputting technical expertise and overseeing where appropriate:

· Budgeting, financial control and reporting; 

· Fraud risk reduction;

· Management of deposits and investments; 

· Contract review and management including potential VAT implications;

· Meaningful reporting to the Directors, regulators and high value/ risk donors; 

· Appointment and management of the auditors; 

· Managing short and long term cash flow and reserves policy; 

· Cost recovery of core expenditure needs; 

· Accounting systems, policies and records 

The Treasurer will also help the full Board to understand and consider the financial implications of significant decisions.

The Treasurer will be one of the counter-signatories for online banking and applications to high value funders. 

For full details, please request the candidate pack from the TrusteeWorks team at the email address provided.

This is a remote opportunity.

What are we looking for?

The successful candidate will have a background as a chartered accountant, with experience of risk and strategy. An experience of working with public sector or charities and an understanding of charity finance will be desirable.

Essential

Qualified accountant with hands on experience of managing the finances of an organisation (or equivalent level, Qualified by experience)

Understanding of charity and/ or public sector finances or chartered / management accountant, ready, and able to proactively gain the understanding and insight on charity and public sector finance required for this role

Basic IT skills relevant to the requirements of the role

Hands on experience of governance in a charity or comparable resource-constrained organisation

Experience of managing relationships with auditors and regulators

Strong affinity with and commitment to the work of BfN

Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to a board and other stakeholders

Understanding and commitment to undertake governance and legal duties, including Treasurer responsibilities in particular

Availability to attend Board, FAR and other required meetings, in person or virtual – dates agreed by consultation in advance

Ready, willing and able to provide ad hoc advisory input as required to the Finance and Systems Manager, CEO, FAR, Chair and wider Board by email and attend remote meetings with BfN        

Desirable

Hands on experience of managing or auditing a charity’s finance

Knowledge / experience of the charity SORP

Experience of contributing to business planning

Knowledge of the infant feeding, early years, health or similar sectors

What Difference will you make?

By contributing to a charity that achieves phenomenal impact for women and families, you will have a rewarding opportunity to apply your skills and experience in accounting and finance, for good. You will know that your expertise and insight can really support in an increasingly challenging operating climate, for charities as a whole, not least in the health and social care sector.

Becoming a Director of BfN you will join a charity which is trusted by healthcare professionals and parents alike for the consistent quality of the services we run through mums and parents who have breastfed themselves. You will know the charity makes a difference and has a track-record of effective management and governance.

Time Commitment

Hours: Anticipated to be between two and two-and-a-half days per month.

Deadline: 9am, Monday 12th May 2025

We are looking for a passionate individual with skills and expertise in Finance/Treasury.

We will welcome applications from anyone who is keen to transform lives and join us on this exciting journey with us. You don’t need prior experience of sitting on a Board, a dance background or specific qualifications to become a Trustee. What matters most is your passion for supporting people with learning disabilities, your commitment to building a more equitable society and your willingness to contribute to our work, our vision and our future success.

Trustees play a crucial role in shaping what we do, helping us stay clear on our purpose and offering ideas that guide our organisation as we grow. We’re looking for Trustees who can bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights from their lived and professional experiences. We want our Board to reflect the diversity of our work, our participants, and our supporters.

We are based in Lancashire, with national and international reach, and we welcome applications for remote Trustees. We currently have Trustees based in Portugal and the Netherlands.

The role of Trustee is a volunteer role and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses for travel may be claimed.

The role requires attendance & contribution at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and four Board meetings per year (plus any required preparation and pre-reading). Quarterly Board Meetings take place mostly online and periodically in person at a North West location.

There will also be potential additional engagement in strategy work and sub working groups throughout the year and occasional representation of the charity at various events with key stakeholders.

Who are Open Briefing 

People and communities around the world have the solutions to social injustice, authoritarianism, and the climate crisis. But repressive governments, corrupt corporations, and armed groups use violence and oppression to try and silence them.

By building resistance and resilience among those challenging unaccountable power, Open Briefing supports a shared vision for a world where communities and ecosystems can thrive.

Our dual approach allows us to work at every level of civil society, from the grassroots to the global. As a mission-driven nonprofit, we join forces with grassroots activists, community groups, and social movements at risk. Working together, we strengthen their physical security, digital resilience, and collective wellbeing.

As a social impact consultancy, we provide professional support and advisory services to global nonprofits and foundations seeking to bolster their risk management, data protection, and staff care.

"To describe Open Briefing as a caring partner would be an understatement. They have consistently been at the forefront, providing invaluable support whenever we have faced security threats. Open Briefing has stood by us, offering bespoke services that have enabled us to carry out our mandate with confidence and timeliness. Their support has given us the peace of mind necessary to operate fearlessly and effectively." 

Phyllis Omido, executive director of the Center for Justice Governance & Environmental Action, Kenya and Winner of the Goldman Environmental Prize 

Protecting people at risk 

The need for our work has never been greater. At least 300 human rights defenders and 91 journalists were killed in 2024. Many others were arrested, kidnapped, or forced into hiding. 

Last year, we worked with those around the world fighting for human rights and social justice, protecting the environment and defending their communities, exposing corruption and reporting the truth, and advocating for women’s rights and reproductive justice. We supported organisations and activists at risk in 100 countries across every inhabited continent, underscoring the global scale of the challenges we face.  

The number of requests for our support increased by 20% on the previous year to 575 in 2024. This represents 11 new cases every week. In response, our international team provided over 6,000 hours of direct support, a 32% increase on 2023. Roughly a third of the cases that we worked on were with individual defenders or informal collectives and 33% of all cases involved those defending their land and rivers or demanding climate action. We also trained 1,014 defenders in 112 workshops.

“I came out of my work with Open Briefing stronger. I know that because of the work I do, the security risks I face won’t go away, but I’m not as fearful. I used to doubt and question myself, but now I know what to do. I know how to manage the risks we face.” 

Director, women-led human rights organisation, West Africa 

Our efforts delivered measurable impact. We reduced perceived risk by 15% and achieved a remarkable 25% improvement in individuals' stated capacity to manage those risks - significantly enhancing the safety and resilience of those we served. An inspiring 84% approval rating from clients and grassroots partners underscores the meaningful difference we made, reaffirming the effectiveness and importance of our work in this complex and challenging field. 

I fled into exile after being arrested and torture by police and people close to me were murdered. Open Briefing helped me when no other organisation could. I had lost hope, but their support saved my life.” Investigative journalist, Rwanda

The wider impact of our work was captured in an external impact evaluation commissioned by a donor last year, which concluded that: “The different issues around which the activists had sought support from Open Briefing were profound, serious, and challenging. The scale of the risks is such that it would not be possible for them to operate without this kind of support. The nature of the support that Open Briefing has provided is therefore highly important, and has allowed activism to continue in contexts where it might not otherwise be able to.” 

Becoming fundable and findable 

With demand for our support up by 66% in the past two years, we need to ensure that we have the funding and resources to direct our support wherever we are needed most. 

We are proud to have built long standing partnerships with a small community of foundations who have been crucial to our success so far. But we can’t meet the current surge in demand for our support without growing this community. We need more people to know about the threats facing grassroots activists, human rights defenders, and indigenous communities around the world. We need more people to understand why physical security, digital resilience, and collective wellbeing is vital in helping them continue their work. We need more people to know about Open Briefing. 

“Open Briefing's expertise has been revolutionary for our organization. They have helped us develop the tools we need to better safeguard our team and respond to safety and security risks. All of this was done in a way designed for our organisation and considering our own limitations. Doing this kind of security work should be inherent to any organisation like ours that works in vulnerable communities and sensitive areas; however, it's not always within reach.” Dylan Terrell, Founder and Executive Director, Caminos de Agua, Mexico 

In May 2026, Open Briefing will come to the end of our current strategy cycle and will be looking ahead to where we need to scale our work and strengthen our impact. We need to make sure that we have the funding and resources to protect even more people, effect systemic change, and ensure the eyes of the world are on the perpetrators of attacks and reprisals. 

This means we need to be findable and fundable. To date, Open Briefing has largely operated behind the scenes, building a solid reputation as a trusted ally and critical friend to grassroots activists, movements, and foundations across the globe. 

Going forward, we must build our profile and widen our support base. We need to pursue innovative and creative approaches to communicating who we are and the human stories behind our work. We need to reach new audiences in order to engage and influence a wider network of donors, allies, and philanthropists across the globe. And crucially, we need to translate this work into new donations and unrestricted funding.

Key to this will be the formation of our first Development Board. We are looking to achieve a step change in our fundraising, help us build our audience, develop exciting communications and support us in ways we haven’t even thought of yet! 

Could this be you? 

• Are you passionate about bringing your skills, expertise, and networks to a dynamic global non-profit? 
• Are you excited about collaborating with us to help protect people and communities on the frontlines of the fight against social injustice, authoritarianism, and the climate crisis? 
• Do you have bold ideas for how Open Briefing could be more findable and fundable? Can you help us translate your ideas and our ambitions into creative, impactful strategies that could lead to new funding and resources for our security and wellbeing work? 
• Are you disinterested in ‘talking-shop Boards? Are you looking for an opportunity to use your skills, creativity, voice and connections in a way that will directly power our fundraising and communications work - making introductions to your network, brainstorming around key challenges, and executing dynamic profile-raising events and campaigns?  

We are looking for 3 - 5 people to join a dynamic, passionate and action-orientated Development Board. Previous experience as a Trustee or on a non-profit Board is not required.  We are particularly interested in people with experience from the following industries: 

• Communications, design, and media
• Technology
• Venture capital
• Strategy consultancy
• Fundraising, philanthropy, events, and giving circles.

We are asking potential members to commit to an initial one-year term and to be available to meet online on a monthly basis, with engagement between as necessary. 

If this sounds like you, please tell us what makes you excited about the role and upload your CV. If you have any questions, please reach out to us.

We would love to talk! 

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

About Access Academia

Access Academia is the charitable umbrella which was created out of the creation of the student-led publication, the Journal of Intersectional Social Justice. When Journal of Intersectional Social Justice (JISJ) was created, there were not any expectations for the project to be any more than that: a student-led academic publication. However, as it rolled on, attention for the project widened and it began to cover other topics and get involved in other realms of knowledge sharing, activism, and content creation. The creation of the seminal Access Series on the Intersections blog springboarded the idea for the JISJ to turn into something much more than a simple academic publication. Now as we have restructured the JISJ into Access Academia, we are finalising our official registration as a charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) in the UK. 

Our core purpose is to Make Academia More Accessible. We plan to accomplish this by many different avenues, as obviously it is a very wide-ranging goal! The main ways we plan to do this are through encouraging Open Access academia and knowledge sharing through the Access Series, expanding the themes covered on Intersections with additions such as Mental Health Mondays and Colonialism in Subject, creating accessible content across our social media platforms which encourages truthful and accurate knowledge sharing and activism, running research events to encourage students to publish and interact with academia, covering inside stories of academia, running student engagement programmes to try and make academia less of an Ivory Tower, and much more!

What is a Volunteership?

A volunteership is a unique hybrid opportunity that combines elements of volunteering and interning. Participants commit to working with a charity or nonprofit organization for a specified period of time, fulfilling a set of responsibilities and expectations. In return, they gain valuable experience, receive a letter of recommendation, and are offered LinkedIn endorsements. Additionally, they may have the chance to continue working with the charity through future hiring cycles as long as they remain a student. This experience provides both personal fulfillment through giving back to the community and professional development for future career opportunities.

Volunteership: Events & Programmes Coordinator
Duration: May to August 2025
Eligibility: Must be currently enrolled as a student

Requirements:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate program.

• Strong interest in event planning, programme coordination, and nonprofit work.

• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting.

• Prior experience in event planning or project coordination is a plus, but not required.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace.

• A passion for contributing to social impact and supporting charitable initiatives.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Event Planning & Execution:

  • Assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of monthly charity events. This is a minimum of 1 online event per month.

  • Work closely with team members to ensure events are organized efficiently, within budget, and aligned with the charity’s mission.

  • Help with logistics, setup, and support during events.

  • Manage guest lists, invitations, and event communications.

• Annual Research Programme Coordination:

  • Support the coordination of the charity’s annual research programme. This is currently an annual programme, the Social Justice Research Fellowship, running in 2025 from June 2nd - August 8th.

  • Assist in organizing logistics, outreach, and scheduling for research participants.

  • Ensure that resources and materials are available for programme participants.

  • Track the progress of the programme and report on key milestones.

  • Contribute to planing and logistical initiatives surrounding expanding the provisions of research programmes, including brainstorming and coordination for potential new programmes.

• Collaboration & Teamwork:

  • Collaborate with internal teams and volunteers to ensure smooth event and programme execution.

  • Participate in regular team meetings, contributing ideas and insights.

  • Provide feedback and suggestions for improving the efficiency of events and programmes.

  • Participate in Outreach & Marketing meetings and follow direction provided from Senior Staff.

• Post-Event & Programme Reporting:

  • Help in post-event evaluations, collecting feedback from participants, and reporting on outcomes.

  • Assist in maintaining and updating event and programme documentation for future reference.

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in event management and programme coordination.

• Networking opportunities with peers, university departments and professors, and other charitiable groups.

• Opportunities to develop key skills in project management, communication, and teamwork.

• A letter of recommendation upon successful completion of the volunteership.

• Certificate of participation of the volunteership.

• LinkedIn endorsements and the chance to be considered for future hiring cycles with the charity.

About Access Academia

Access Academia is the charitable umbrella which was created out of the creation of the student-led publication, the Journal of Intersectional Social Justice. When Journal of Intersectional Social Justice (JISJ) was created, there were not any expectations for the project to be any more than that: a student-led academic publication. However, as it rolled on, attention for the project widened and it began to cover other topics and get involved in other realms of knowledge sharing, activism, and content creation. The creation of the seminal Access Series on the Intersections blog springboarded the idea for the JISJ to turn into something much more than a simple academic publication. Now as we have restructured the JISJ into Access Academia, we are finalising our official registration as a charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) in the UK. 

Our core purpose is to Make Academia More Accessible. We plan to accomplish this by many different avenues, as obviously it is a very wide-ranging goal! The main ways we plan to do this are through encouraging Open Access academia and knowledge sharing through the Access Series, expanding the themes covered on Intersections with additions such as Mental Health Mondays and Colonialism in Subject, creating accessible content across our social media platforms which encourages truthful and accurate knowledge sharing and activism, running research events to encourage students to publish and interact with academia, covering inside stories of academia, running student engagement programmes to try and make academia less of an Ivory Tower, and much more!

What is a Volunteership?

A volunteership is a unique hybrid opportunity that combines elements of volunteering and interning. Participants commit to working with a charity or nonprofit organization for a specified period of time, fulfilling a set of responsibilities and expectations. In return, they gain valuable experience, receive a letter of recommendation, and are offered LinkedIn endorsements. Additionally, they may have the chance to continue working with the charity through future hiring cycles as long as they remain a student. This experience provides both personal fulfillment through giving back to the community and professional development for future career opportunities.

Volunteership: Content Designer
Duration: May to August 2025
Eligibility: Must be currently enrolled as a student

Requirements:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate program.

• Strong interest in content creation, design, and digital communication.

• Proficiency in design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, etc.).

• Excellent written and visual communication skills.

• Strong attention to detail and creative problem-solving abilities.

• Ability to produce high-quality content under deadlines.

• A portfolio or examples of previous work (e.g., social media graphics, posters, digital campaigns) is a plus.

• Familiarity with social media platforms and trends (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.).

• Passion for contributing to social impact and supporting charitable causes.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Content Creation & Design:

  • Design and produce a minimum of 2 social media posts per month, ensuring they are aligned with the charity's voice and branding.

  • Create engaging visual content for various platforms, including social media, newsletters, and website updates.

  • Work with the marketing team to develop creative concepts for campaigns and initiatives.

• Content Strategy & Planning:

  • Assist in developing content strategies that resonate with the charity’s target audience.

  • Ensure content is on-brand, consistent in style, and optimized for different digital platforms.

  • Help create and maintain a content calendar, ensuring timely delivery of posts and materials.

• Brand Consistency:

  • Maintain a consistent visual and written tone across all digital platforms.

  • Stay updated on design trends and digital marketing strategies to ensure content is fresh and engaging.

• Collaboration & Teamwork:

  • Collaborate with internal teams and volunteers to ensure a consistent post schedule.

  • Contribute and attend all meetings for the Content Creation Team and directions from the Director of Content Creation.

  • Meet all given deadlines on time and consistently.

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in content design and digital marketing.

• Opportunities to build and expand your design portfolio with real-world projects.

• A letter of recommendation upon successful completion of the volunteership.

• Certification of participation at the end of the volunteership.

• LinkedIn endorsements and the chance to be considered for future hiring cycles with the charity.

We provide life choices for people with learning disabilities.

You can choose to help us improve them.

Options for Life is a dynamic not-for-profit charity based in Sandwell.  We are dedicated to empowering adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to boost their confidence, develop valuable skills, and live independently, enjoying the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

We are committed to supporting our participants in making choices about their own lives. 

We provide our services in an area of significant deprivation; the Indices of Multiple Deprivation (2019) ranked Sandwell as the 12th most deprived local authority in England.  We own two purpose-built centres and employ 65 staff.

We want to support more people with profound or multiple learning disabilities and to develop new services to provide supported employment opportunities.  But to do this we need professionals who can guide and develop the charity’s strategy as Trustees.  Many of our current Trustees will complete their terms this year.  We particularly value financial and public administration skills and people with lived experience of disability. We believe in the strength of a varied board and welcome applicants from all walks of life, regardless of their previous Trustee experience.

Our Trustees are central to our success, and we need Trustees who share our desire to overcome years of prejudice. The financial situation is challenging, but the rewards are enormous.

Please make a choice to learn more about us.

Become a Trustee at Options for Life
Make a difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.

Location: Sandwell, West Midlands
Commitment: Four Board meetings annually, plus the AGM, strategy day, and quarterly sub-committee meetings
Expenses: Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed

Are you passionate about creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive? Options for Life is looking for committed, values-driven individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

We are a vibrant, Sandwell-based charity that supports adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to live fulfilling, independent lives. Our services include community hubs, outreach, drop-ins, and access to a wide range of community-based activities. At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to choice, dignity, and empowerment.

The Role

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in the strategic leadership and governance of the charity. Working closely with the Chair, CEO, and fellow trustees, you will help shape the future of our services, ensure we stay true to our mission, and uphold our responsibilities as a charitable organisation.

We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring:

• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills
• Experience in leadership, change management, HR, fundraising, safeguarding, health and social care, or community engagement
• A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to discussions and decisions

Previous trustee experience is not essential—we welcome first-time trustees and provide full induction and support.

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to use your skills and experience for social impact
• Involvement in meaningful work that changes lives
• Personal and professional development through trustee training and networking
• A chance to work alongside passionate people and make a lasting contribution to your local community

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and particularly encourage applications from people with lived experience of disability, people from underrepresented backgrounds, and younger people seeking their first board experience.

Lived Experience Sight Loss Trustee - Focus Birmingham – Empowering Lives and Shaping the Future

Focus Birmingham’s (Focus) Trustees are all volunteers, playing an essential role in overseeing the charity’s activities in partnership with the Board of Trustees. The CEO and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) manage the day-to-day running of the charity, but it is the Board of Trustees that holds ultimate responsibility for ensuring the charity continues to grow and delivers on its vision.

The purpose of this trustee role is to bring a ‘lived experience’ perspective to help shape the future of our organisation. You will ensure our services reflect the diverse needs of the people we support and help us advance our mission of improving lives by creating opportunities for people with care and support needs. This role will help them feel empowered to live life to the full and unlock their potential.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Co-production Strategy: Ensure the development and implementation of a co-production strategy in collaboration with the Board and Senior Leadership Team that promotes meaningful involvement of the people we support in decision-making processes.

• Engagement and Participation: Ensure that the Board and Senior Leadership Team champion the active engagement of the people we support in all aspects of the organisation, including programme design, service development, and policy formulation.

• Advisory Groups: Support the Senior Leadership Team in establishing and maintaining advisory groups or panels made up of the people we support, their families, and carers, ensuring their voices are heard, and their perspectives are considered.

• Training and Capacity Building: Provide advice on the development of a learning and development strategy that equips staff and volunteers with the skills to provide person-centred care.

• Feedback Mechanisms: Work with the Board and Senior Leadership Team to implement effective feedback mechanisms, surveys, and evaluation tools to gather input from individuals with care and support needs on the charity’s activities.

• Advocacy: Advocate for the rights and autonomy of the people we support both within Focus Birmingham and in the wider community. Raise awareness of the importance of co-production.

• Policy and Governance: Review, provide advice, and contribute to the development of policies and governance structures that ensure the people we support have a genuine and influential role in the organisation.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Collaborate with fellow Trustees, staff, and volunteers to embed co-production principles across the organisation. Provide guidance and mentorship to staff involved in co-production activities.

What Difference You Will Make and What You Will Achieve

This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact by ensuring that individuals with care and support needs are at the forefront of decision-making:

• Networking: Build connections with disability advocates, self-advocacy groups, and stakeholders.

• Professional Development: Gain valuable experience in not-for-profit governance and co-production practices.

• Personal Satisfaction: Contribute to a cause that empowers individuals with care and support needs, helping them exercise their agency and unlock their potential.

How to Apply

If you are committed to empowering individuals with care and support needs and promoting their active participation in shaping Focus Birmingham’s future, we invite you to apply for this trustee role. Your lived experience and expertise in co-production will be instrumental in helping us achieve our mission of improving lives by creating opportunities for people with care and support needs, so they can live life to the full and reach their full potential.

To apply, please submit a completed application form via CharityJob.

Additional details about the role can be found in the attached recruitment pack. If you require any reasonable adjustment to support your application for this role, please contact Focus Birmingham via the details in the recruitment pack.

Closing Date for Applications: 11/05/25

Care Quality, CQC Governance, and Service Quality Trustee - Focus Birmingham

Role Overview
Focus Birmingham is seeking a dedicated Trustee specialising in Care Quality, CQC Governance, and Service Quality to help drive the delivery of outstanding, person-centred care across our services. In this crucial role, you will work closely with the Board to ensure that the charity not only meets but exceeds regulatory standards, with a particular focus on compliance with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) framework. Your expertise will support the Board in overseeing the quality and safety of our services, championing continuous improvement and innovation.

This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the strategic direction of Focus Birmingham, ensuring the highest standards of care for people with disabilities and support needs.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and guidance on care quality, safety, and service effectiveness, ensuring that Focus Birmingham meets all CQC requirements.
• Support the organisation in achieving and maintaining high ratings in CQC inspections by contributing expertise in governance, compliance, and quality improvement.
• Scrutinise and challenge policies, procedures, and performance data to ensure the highest standards of care and safeguarding.
• Promote a person-centred approach, ensuring that the voices of the people who use our services are central to decision-making.
• Work with senior leadership and operational teams to identify risks and opportunities related to care delivery and service development.
• Oversee Focus Birmingham’s Safeguarding practices, ensuring robust safeguarding policies and procedures are in place, adhered to, and reviewed to protect vulnerable individuals.
• Support the development of a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in care services.
• Ensure the Board is well-informed about emerging trends, best practices, and regulatory changes in the health and social care sector.
• Act as an ambassador for Focus Birmingham, advocating for high-quality, inclusive, and accessible services for people with disabilities.

What Difference You Will Make
By bringing your expertise in care quality governance and regulatory compliance, you will:

• Help safeguard the well-being of those who rely on our services, ensuring they receive safe, high-quality care.
• Strengthen Focus Birmingham’s ability to meet and exceed CQC standards, leading to improved inspection ratings and public confidence.
• Influence strategic decision-making to ensure care quality remains at the heart of the organisation.
• Support our teams in embedding a strong culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure the voices of the people we support are heard, respected, and reflected in how we shape and deliver care.

What You Will Achieve
As a Trustee, you will contribute to:

• A robust governance framework that supports outstanding care provision.
• Improved service outcomes and positive experiences for individuals supported by Focus Birmingham.
• A confident, well-informed Board that prioritises care quality in strategic planning.
• A proactive approach to regulatory compliance, reducing risks, and enhancing our reputation.
• The growth and development of innovative, person-centred services that empower people with disabilities to live life to the fullest.

Who Are We Looking For?
We are looking for an individual with expertise in health and social care governance, particularly in relation to CQC compliance, service quality, safeguarding, and person-centred care. Ideal candidates will have:

• Strategic-level experience working in or alongside CQC-regulated services such as social care, healthcare, or disability services.
• Knowledge of best practices in care quality, safeguarding, and risk management.
• A strong understanding of governance and supporting services.
• The ability to provide constructive challenge and strategic insight to ensure continuous improvement.
• A commitment to our values and mission, with a passion for empowering people with disabilities.
• A team player, willing to work collaboratively with other trustees and staff to achieve our strategic vision.
• The ability to think strategically, analyse complex issues, and develop creative solutions.
• Availability to attend Board meetings (4 per year), committee meetings (4 per year), other meetings, and engage with individuals with disabilities on an ongoing basis.
• A strong commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities and promoting their active participation in decision-making.
• The ability to understand and empathise with the diverse needs and perspectives of adults with care and support needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for facilitating engagement and collaboration.

This is a voluntary role, but the impact you will make is invaluable. If you are passionate about driving excellence in care and safeguarding, we would love to hear from you.

To Apply
Please submit a complete application form via CharityJob.

Closing Date for Applications: 11th May 2025

We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming a new Trustee to our team!

As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in the governance and strategic oversight of the charity, ensuring that we operate effectively, achieve our mission, and comply with all legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees are collectively responsible for safeguarding the charity’s assets, ensuring they are used exclusively to further our objectives, and overseeing the charity’s financial health, including budgets, financial controls, and reporting. Acting with integrity and in the charity’s best interests is at the heart of the role.

To strengthen our board and support the growth of our charity, we have identified three key areas where additional expertise is needed:

• Marketing
• Legal
• Fundraising

Each of these areas play a vital role in helping us achieve our mission, enhance our impact, and ensure the charity’s sustainability for years to come. In the attached Recruitment Pack, we have outlined individual role profiles for each of these specialisms.

We welcome candidates from diverse professional backgrounds who share our commitment to supporting those affected by Body Dysmorphic Disorder. If your current or previous skills or experience align with any of these profiles, we encourage you to apply and join us in driving meaningful change.