Community leader volunteer roles in jersey, trinity

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/03/2026.

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  21/03/2026

Closing date for these opportunities is: 10/01/2026

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - 05/04/2026

Closing date for these opportunities is: 01/02/2026

About Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre 

Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre is a community organisation and registered charity that exists to champion LGBTQ+ lives. We provide a safe, inclusive space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Our work spans direct support, connection, advocacy and celebration. 

What we do 

• Counselling: We offer professional counselling, including a specialised domestic abuse service, to help people navigate challenges and build resilience. 

• Social and support groups: We run groups for young people, adults, trans and non-binary people, and for family members and allies. These groups create stable communities, reduce isolation and offer peer support. 

• Creative and social activities: Our community choir and other creative activities provide space for expression, confidence and belonging. 

• Training and advocacy: We work with schools, health providers, councils, businesses and community organisations to improve LGBTQ+ inclusion and awareness. 

Our vision and direction 

We envision a region where LGBTQ+ people are visible, safe and thriving. Over the next five years we will deepen our presence across Leicestershire and Rutland, improve access in areas with fewer services, and secure a permanent venue that reflects our ambitions. We will continue to co-create our offer with communities, keep services accessible, and champion equity and inclusion in everything we do. 

Governance and the role of the Board 

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the charity’s strategy, governance and financial health. Trustees safeguard the charity’s assets, ensure compliance with law and regulation, and work with the Chief Executive to ensure the charity is running effectively. Trustees support, challenge and advise the Senior Leadership Team in a spirit of partnership. The Chair leads the Board and ensures it functions well. 

Trustees are also directors of the charitable company. We provide trustee indemnity insurance. 

The role of Chair 

Purpose 

The Chair leads the Board of Trustees to ensure effective governance, a positive culture and a shared focus on impact. The Chair works closely with the Chief Executive to ensure the organisation delivers its strategy and remains well run. 

Strategic focus for the next 12 to 24 months 

• Oversight of our three-year National Lottery funding programme, including delivery assurance and risk management. 

• Support for regional expansion so that services reach communities across Leicestershire and Rutland in a measured and sustainable way. 

• Governance oversight of venue acquisition and the preparatory work that will enable a successful opening and long-term viability. 

Core responsibilities 

• Provide leadership to the Board and ensure trustees discharge their duties effectively and in line with the Charity Governance Code. 

• Set Board agendas with the Chief Executive, plan and chair effective meetings, and ensure clear decisions, minutes and action tracking. 

• Maintain a strong, constructive relationship with the Chief Executive, including monthly one-to-ones and an annual appraisal led by the Chair with Board input. 

• Ensure the Board receives timely, relevant information and is able to scrutinise performance, finance, risk and impact. 

• Oversee Board composition, skills and performance, including recruitment, induction, training and periodic reviews. 

• Champion an inclusive culture where all voices are heard and respected. 

• Model the Centre’s values in every setting. 

• Represent the Centre as an ambassador with key partners and stakeholders when appropriate. 

• Approve or co-approve extraordinary funding decisions with the Treasurer where required by policy and delegations. 

• Ensure statutory accounts are signed and submitted and that key reports to funders and regulators are timely and accurate. 

• Manage conflicts of interest and uphold high standards of conduct. 

• Hold the casting vote if a Board decision is tied. 

Relationship with the Chief Executive 

The Chief Executive is accountable to the Board. The Chair undertakes regular supportive one-to-ones with the Chief Executive and leads their annual appraisal. The Chair works with the Chief Executive to set clear priorities, manage risk and unlock barriers to delivery. 

Time commitment and meeting pattern 

• Estimated at a maximum of two to three days per month. This includes preparation, meetings and ambassadorial duties. 

• Maximum of six Board meetings per year. Meetings are held in person at The Centre. 

• Monthly Chair and Chief Executive one-to-one meetings. 

• Quarterly committee and working sessions may be convened as needed for finance, risk, governance or venue planning. The Chair provides oversight across these areas. 

• An annual strategy and reflection session with trustees and senior staff. 

• Attendance at key public events, including Pride and major Centre occasions. 

Person specification 

Essential 

• Commitment to the mission, values and future direction of Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre. 

• Inclusive leadership with the ability to chair purposeful meetings and to build consensus. 

• Experience as a vice-chair, committee chair or equivalent governance role. 

• Good understanding of charity governance, finance and risk. 

• Sound judgement, integrity and the confidence to hold senior leaders to account while providing support. 

• Strong communication skills and the ability to represent the Centre externally. 

• Lived experience of LGBTQ+ issues or strong allyship and understanding of the challenges our communities face. 

• Knowledge of equity, inclusion and social justice and how these principles are applied in governance and organisational development. 

• Direct knowledge of or links to Leicester and Leicestershire. 

• Availability for the stated time commitment and for key Centre events. 

Desirable 

• Prior experience as a charity chair. 

• Understanding of venue development or capital projects. 

• Local residency or the ability to attend meetings in person. Non-local candidates will be considered if they can meet in-person requirements and demonstrate strong regional commitment. 

Eligibility, safeguarding and conduct 

Trustees must be at least 16 and not disqualified under charity law. The role is subject to two satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check. A short code of conduct applies to all trustees. Conflicts of interest must be declared at appointment and kept up to date. A whistleblowing route is in place. 

What we offer 

• A purposeful leadership role with visible impact for LGBTQ+ people across the region. 

• A collaborative Board and staff team with a positive culture. 

• A tailored induction. Briefings will be arranged with the Chief Executive, Centre Manager and staff leads. A handover meeting with the outgoing Chair will be provided. 

• Access to training and development relevant to the role. 

• Opportunities to represent the Centre at events, build networks and celebrate our community, including Pride. 

• Out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed in line with policy. 

• Membership of the Association of Chairs 

Equality, diversity and inclusion 

We warmly encourage applications from trans and non-binary people, people of colour, disabled people and those from other underrepresented groups. We are committed to inclusive recruitment and to removing barriers. Interviews can be adapted to meet access needs. Meeting venues are step-free. Papers can be provided in accessible formats on request. Please tell us what you need and we will do our best to provide it. 

Privacy notice 

Your application will be used for recruitment purposes only and handled in line with our data protection policy. We will retain applicant data for a limited period and then delete it securely. If you would like your data deleted sooner, please let us know.

Use your leadership skills to help the Third Sector thrive

Third Sector Leaders (TSL) Kirklees exists to strengthen, connect, and champion the voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector across the Kirklees district.

What will you be doing?

• Work closely with TSL’s Chief Executive to ensure an effective link between policy, strategy and delivery.
• Effectively lead the Board of Trustees.
• Ensure that the TSL Board follow governance best practice and meet their legal obligations.
• Effectively address any conflicts which may arise between Trustees, ensuring that the Board function as a collective body.
• Chair the TSL Board meetings, ensuring these are effectively managed and accurately recorded.
• Act as a positive ambassador and leader for the Charity with partners, TSL Trustees and the TSL staff team.

What are we looking for?

Experience and Skills:

• Senior leadership experience in the private, public, or voluntary sectors
• Understanding of boards, governance, and organisational accountability
• Experience in leading organisational change, restructuring, or turnaround situations
• Strong strategic insight, sound judgment, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively, providing guidance and challenge with diplomacy
• Appreciation of the voluntary sector, even if not directly from that sector

 Personal Qualities:

• Integrity, credibility, and a strong sense of civic and ethical responsibility
• Confidence and resilience to guide the Board through sensitive or complex situations
• Commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and community impact
• Ability to inspire, mentor, and build consensus among trustees and staff

We’re committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for everyone we work with. We warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities.

What difference will you make?

As Chair, your presence will bring steadiness and encouragement to a Board that cares deeply about its role, and you will be a supportive partner to our Chief Executive as she leads the next stage of development.

By helping TSL stay collaborative, positive, and focused on what matters, you will play a part in enabling hundreds of organisations to do what they do best - helping people across Kirklees to feel more connected and hopeful about the future.

This is a role where your guidance will truly ripple outwards, strengthening the fabric of local communities through the organisations that support them every day.

Time commitment

Meetings are typically held in person at Brian Jackson House, Huddersfield.

TSL Board meetings currently take place during office hours, but this can be reviewed as necessary.

The estimated time commitment is approximately one day per month. Responsibilities include attending and preparing for five Board meetings annually and a monthly meeting with the Chief Executive.

PDA Society are excited to share that we are looking for 2 new Trustees to join our board.

Trustees play a key role in providing strategic direction, oversight, and support to ensure that the PDA Society continues to grow sustainably and deliver real impact for the community we serve.

Following the retirement of two Trustees we’re keen to broaden the range of skills and experiences represented. Our work is guided by people with lived experience, and our Board of Trustees plays a central role in shaping our strategy and ensuring that our values are embedded across everything we do.

Appointments are made on merit, and we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive Board that truly reflects the communities we serve. 

We particularly welcome applications from anyone who has experienced marginalisation due to their race or religion, as these voices are currently underrepresented on our Board.

This is a voluntary position, and Trustees are not remunerated, although reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Trustees are appointed for an initial 3-year term.

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting Lambeth Links in their search for their CEO.

Lambeth Links is a small charity with a big ambition: to be a central point of rallying, communication and advocacy for the LGBTQIA+ Community who live, work and socialise in Lambeth – the largest borough in London. The organisation aims to strengthen the links between individuals and groups while also highlighting the many issues that continue to adversely affect the community.

Lambeth has a deep and rich history of LGBTQIA+ activism. From being home to founding members of the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) to hosting Europe’s first EuroPride in Brixton in 1992, the borough has long been the beating heart of the LGBTQIA+ Community. Lambeth Links exists to continue that legacy of championing collective voice and driving forward change.

As CEO, you will lead the operational and strategic running of the charity, make sure that the organisation runs well every day and that it has the people, systems and income to grow.

The ideal candidate will have :

• Significant experience of leading at senior level in a charity, social enterprise, public or community organisation. This might be as a Chief Officer, Director or Head of a significant function with clear accountability for people, budgets and organisational performance.
• Experience of working directly with or supporting a Board of Trustees or similar governing body, including preparing papers, giving honest advice and implementing decisions.
• Experience of organisational development or change, for example improving systems, structures, culture or ways of working in a small organisation.
• Understanding of the issues faced by LGBTQIA+ people, including those who are Black or from other communities of colour, disabled people and people with insecure immigration status, and a commitment to intersectional practice.

​​​​How to Apply

If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following by 11.59pm on 21/12/2025:

• A detailed CV, setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements. 
• A cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) highlighting your suitability for the role. Please explain how you meet the essential criteria and give one or two examples that show how you have already operated at, or very close to, Chief Officer level. For example, leading an organisation or major function, managing whole organisation budgets or income plans, or steering a Board or governing body through a key decision. 
• Details of two professional referees together with a brief statement of their relationship to you and over what period of time they have known you. Referees will not be contacted without your prior consent.

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

We'd like to open a new Cadet and Badger Group on a Monday evening, to allow even more young people to learn first-aid skills. If you'd be interested in helping set these Groups up, please state so in your application or at interview stage!

This is such an exciting time to join Sutton Network as a Youth Helper or Youth Leader. We’re hoping to open a new Cadet Group in our Sutton HQ, alongside a new Badger Sett, to teach even more young people vital first-aid skills and give them knowledge for life. Ideally this would be on a Monday or Thursday night, so please let us know your availability at interview.

We’d also like to open a new Group for the Cantonese speaking community in the future, so keep your eyes peeled for another vacancy for this Group!

Pursuing the role

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2025

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Cadet Unit Leaders Wanted in LONDON

Join the Ranger Cadets – Lead a London Unit

Do you want to inspire the next generation and make a real difference in your community?

The Ranger Cadets are seeking passionate leaders to establish and guide our local cadet units across London.

We are a new, independent, non-profit uniformed youth organisation with a bold mission: to engage young people in their communities, equip them with essential life skills, and unlock their full potential. We are non-political, non-religious, and proudly inclusive – open to all, regardless of background.

Now, we are looking for Cadet Unit Leaders to lead our cadets at the grassroots level, ensuring they are seen locally in uniform as positive role models breaking down stereotypes of young people in the community.

The Role

As a Cadet Unit Leader, you will:

• Set up, manage, and develop one of our London-based cadet units.

• Lead and inspire cadets, creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment.

• Coordinate and deliver the cadet syllabus, ensuring cadets take part in fun, rewarding, and interactive programmes.

• Help cadets earn badges for their uniform and progress through the ranks.

• Represent Ranger Cadets locally, showcasing young people as forces for good in their communities.

• Wear a uniform with rank insignia, reflecting your leadership role.

Why Volunteer With Us?

• Empower young people: Help cadets grow into confident, capable leaders.

• Shape the future: Build and lead a unit that will become a cornerstone of the Ranger Cadets.

• Be part of something new: Join the founding team of a pioneering youth organisation.

• Inclusive community: Work with a diverse group of young people and volunteers united by service.

Who We’re Looking For

We want someone who is:

• Passionate about youth development and community service.

• A strong leader and organiser, able to inspire and coordinate activities.

• Committed to our values of inclusivity, integrity, and service.

• Excited to help cadets earn achievements, wear their badges with pride, and advance in rank.

Your Call to Action

This is more than a volunteer role – it’s a chance to make history at the grassroots level. Step into uniform. Take up the challenge. Become a Cadet Unit Leader and help us inspire the next generation in London.

Apply today and be part of the founding team of the Ranger Cadets. Together, we will be a force for good.

RANGER CADETS 

#PreparedForLife

Fundraising team leader volunteer

Our vision for volunteering

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

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

You can expect us to

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

What we need from you

You’ll be:

· supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· keeping financial records from fundraising events

· encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

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

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

Bath Area Play Project are passionate about every child's right to play and enabling children to thrive. We are looking for a Chair of our small Trustee Board to support our vision and ethos, enabling the continuation of our support services for children and families, leading strategic oversight and ensuring we are resilient for change.

BAPP provide a range of services including an Ofsted registered Nursery & Pre-school, Ofsted registered Holiday Playschemes for disabled children and those with additional needs, Children & Family Support, Alternative Provision for children with SEND and our long standing Community based Family Playdays. More information is available on our website  

As we work with vulnerable children, Trustees are required to have an Enhanced DBS and to register as one of our Trustees as part of our Ofsted registration. There are 8 Trustee Meetings each year, alternating in person in Bath and online which includes our AGM. Other commitments in addition can include attending events, representing BAPP, supporting with recruitment/staffing and policy review. 

For further information or if you have any questions, please get in touch.

Ranger Cadets is seeking dedicated, highly motivated individuals to assume the role of Uniformed Volunteer Leader (Cadet Officer/Instructor). This is a prestigious leadership position responsible for guiding, mentoring, and inspiring young people (aged 10-18) as they progress through our structured programme of citizenship, life skills, and uniformed service.

This role is ideal for those who thrive in a structured environment, possess strong leadership capabilities, and are committed to transferring their professional and life skills to the next generation of active citizens.

Key Responsibilities:

As a Uniformed Volunteer Leader, you will be the face and backbone of your local Cadet Unit, upholding the standards and ethos of Ranger Cadets.

• Leadership & Command: Assume command authority over a group of cadets, managing their welfare, discipline, and training during parade nights and activities.

• Structured Training Delivery: Plan and deliver structured weekly parade night sessions, focusing on drill, teamwork exercises, leadership tasks, and syllabus-based learning (e.g., first aid, citizenship, expedition skills).

• Mentorship & Development: Act as a visible, uniformed role model, actively coaching cadets through the rank structure and award schemes, helping them develop essential life skills and confidence.

• Administration & Compliance: Oversee necessary unit administration, ensuring all activities comply with safeguarding, health & safety policies, and Ranger Cadets' standards.

• Ceremonial Duties: Lead and participate in formal ceremonies, parades, and community events, representing Ranger Cadets with professionalism and pride.

Who We Are Looking For:

We value proven leadership, structure, and commitment. While military or emergency service experience is highly desirable, we welcome applications from all professional backgrounds where leadership, organisation, and coaching skills are paramount.

Essential Attributes:

• Integrity and Professionalism: Ability to uphold the high standards expected when wearing the Ranger Cadets uniform.

• Strong Leadership Skills: Proven ability to manage, motivate, and direct groups of people (or young people) effectively.

• Commitment to Structure: Appreciation for clear processes, rules, and a hierarchical organization.

• Availability: Commitment to attend one mandatory weekly parade night (typically 3 hours) plus occasional weekend activities (e.g., training exercises, camps, or community service events).

• Youth Focus: A genuine interest in the development and wellbeing of young people.

Benefits of Volunteering in Uniform:

This is more than a volunteering role, it is an investment in your personal and professional growth.

Professional Recognition: Achieve a formal Officer/Instructor Rank within Ranger Cadets, earning the respect and authority necessary to lead.

Advanced Training: Access comprehensive, accredited training in Safeguarding, Advanced First Aid, Youth Development, and Expedition Leadership.

Skill Transfer: A direct opportunity to apply skills gained in your professional career—from logistics and planning to public speaking and team management.

Networking: Connect with other highly-skilled volunteers, community leaders, and professionals from diverse uniformed and corporate backgrounds.

Visible Impact: Witness the tangible results of your efforts as cadets advance in rank, earn awards, and grow into responsible young adults.

Next Steps:

If you are ready to put your leadership skills into service and take command of the next phase of youth development, we want to hear from you.

Apply Today:

Submit your Expression of Interest, outlining your leadership experience and why you are seeking a uniformed role.

Lead with Purpose. Lead in Uniform.

RANGER CADETS 

#PreparedForLife

** We are seeking Trustees for the Beacon Academy Trust**

Beacon Multi Academy Trust (BMAT) is a medium sized MAT with over 3500 students and a staff body of 460 and we believe that every young person deserves the best education possible. Working together, our mission is to raise standards in education to ensure that each and every student reaches their full potential. 

We are currently seeking Trustees to join the BMAT Board and contribute to the strategic leadership and governance of the Trust

The Role of a Trustee

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in:

• Setting the strategic direction of the Trust and holding executive leaders to account
• Overseeing financial performance and ensuring resources are used effectively
• Championing safeguarding, inclusion, and wellbeing across all schools
• Ensuring compliance with statutory duties and promoting high standards of education

We welcome applications from individuals with expertise in:

• Education, finance, law, HR, audit, risk, or organisational leadership
• Strategic planning and performance oversight
• Community engagement and stakeholder relations

About Beacon Multi Academy Trust

BMAT comprises:

• Beal High School – England’s largest secondary school, with over 2,700 students and a thriving Sixth Form
• BBIH – A specialist alternative provision for 12–19-year-olds, offering tailored academic and vocational pathways
• The Forest Academy – A medium-sized secondary school with co-located Sixth Form and ASD provision
• NELTA SCITT – A nationally recognised teacher training provider offering QTS, PGCE, and Degree Apprenticeships

Our schools are deeply embedded in their communities, and our governance model reflects this. Trustees provide strategic oversight across the Trust, while Local Governing Bodies focus on school-level priorities and community engagement.

Commitment and Support

Trustees attend three formal board meetings per year, with additional opportunities to engage in strategic planning, school visits, and development sessions. A full induction programme is provided, including:

• Role-specific training
• Peer mentoring
• Access to governance resources via the National Governance Association
• Ongoing professional development

If you are passionate about improving educational outcomes and want to make a strategic impact in your community, we would be delighted to hear from you.

INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE) 

CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings  

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The reading group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the reading group sessions are as follows: 

• Monday afternoons 2pm to 3pm 

• Wednesday mornings 11am to 1pm. 

Volunteers are required to attend either one of both sessions. Volunteers are also welcome to stay and support the more traditional English language classes either before the reading session on Mondays or after the reading session on Wednesdays. 

Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.

The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.

The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.

Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources; 

• Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;  

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• * Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.  

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry 

• The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months; 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish; 

• Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering.