Community manager volunteer roles in hornchurch, greater london

About ShowerBox

ShowerBox is a registered charity dedicated to providing free, safe showers and essential supplies to people experiencing homelessness. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment that restores dignity, improves wellbeing, and helps to reduce isolation. We also connect our guests with health clinics and other vital services, supporting them to make long-term, positive changes in their lives.

Founded by our CEO, Sarah Lamptey, in response to the urgent need for accessible hygiene facilities, ShowerBox began in 2018 as a grassroots initiative and became a registered charity in 2021. Since then, it has grown into a multi-site service, operating both independently and in partnership with other organisations.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking a dynamic and committed Chair to lead ShowerBox into its next phase of growth. Building on the success achieved since becoming a CIO and expanding to three locations, the Chair will work closely with the CEO to shape the organisation’s future and strengthen its impact.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing effective strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring sound governance and clear direction.
• Supporting and constructively challenging the CEO, while holding them accountable for delivering agreed objectives.
• Ensuring the Board remains effective and diverse, with the right balance of skills, knowledge, and experience.
• Acting as an ambassador for ShowerBox, representing the charity externally and serving as a spokesperson when appropriate.
• Safeguarding the charity’s values, reputation, and financial sustainability.

We are looking for someone who can bring:

• A strong commitment to supporting people experiencing homelessness and hygiene poverty.
• Previous experience as a Trustee or Board member (experience as a Chair of a voluntary organisation is highly desirable).
• A solid understanding of the legal, financial, and governance responsibilities of trusteeship.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to chair meetings effectively.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with a collaborative approach.
• The time, energy, and commitment to support a small but growing charity.

Time commitment and terms:

• The Chair of Trustees is appointed for a renewable term of two years.
• Expected time commitment: up to two days per month, with flexibility for additional time during new projects or unexpected challenges.
• Board meetings are held four times a year (mostly online), with occasional subcommittees and events depending on interest and expertise.
• This is an unpaid voluntary role; reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining why you are interested in working with ShowerBox. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Join our amazing volunteer team in this flexible opportunity that puts you at the heart of our work supporting blind and partially sighted people. You’ll make taking part in events and carrying out volunteering easier and more enjoyable for our customers and volunteers with sight loss.
You’ll take some of the stress and anxiety out of getting around and taking part in activities as a blind or partially sighted person. The help you give will encourage people to do more.

What you’ll be doing
• Sighted guiding / giving practical help to individuals in and around venues, so they can take part in events.
• Supporting volunteers with sight loss with their volunteering activities which range from facilitating a regular community group to delivering a talk about sight loss to a local business. Your role would involve things like guiding; Meeting and greeting at group activities or creating a welcoming and interesting display stand at events.

In this role you will only be helping individuals in places open to the public, often in a group setting. We will provide training in sighted guiding techniques and understanding sight loss.
We would particularly like to recruit support volunteers within the Downpatrick area (last Wednesday of every month)

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Event

Key requirements

• This role requires one reference

Location

Region

• Northern Ireland

Additional location information

• Particularly looking for Volunteers in Downpatrick area - Last Wednesday of Every month

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people. • An empathetic and professional manner. • The ability to take the supportive and helpful role.

Volunteer Role: Charity Shop & Arts Space Assistant
Location: NICOLA Arts, Wandsworth Rd, Lambeth, London
Organisation: NICOLA Arts

About Us:

NICOLA Arts is an artist-led charity shop in the heart of Lambeth. We’re more than just a shop — we’re a creative hub where local artists can display, sell, and create their work. Through our in-store exhibitions and collaborative projects, we aim to build a supportive, accessible space for creatives and the wider community.

Role Overview:
We are looking for enthusiastic and reliable volunteers to help support the day-to-day running of our charity shop and creative space. This is a varied role that combines retail tasks with hands-on support for artists and exhibitions. It's a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in the arts, community work, or gaining experience in a creative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Sort, price, and label donated clothes and items
• Assist customers with queries and purchases
• Operate the till and handle payments (training provided)
• Keep the shop tidy, welcoming, and well-organised
• Support artists working in the on-site studio
• Assist with setting up and manage in-store art exhibitions and events
• Post flyers locally for promoting our new shop

What We’re Looking For:

• Friendly, reliable, and proactive individuals
• An interest in the arts, creativity, or community engagement
• Good communication and customer service skills
• Willingness to learn and get stuck in
• Previous retail or creative experience is a bonus, but not required

What You’ll Gain:

• Experience working in a unique arts and retail environment
• Opportunities to connect with local artists and creative projects
• Training in retail and event support
• A chance to make a real difference in the Lambeth community
• References for future roles or education

Time Commitment:
Flexible shifts available – we’re happy to work around your schedule. Whether you can offer a few hours a week or more, your time and support will make a big difference.

How to Apply:
To express your interest, pop into the shop or apply online

We are partnering with the Social Interest Group (‘SIG’) to appoint a new Treasurer to join their board. SIG brings charities together to work under one umbrella focusing on delivering good quality social and health care services. They build powerful partnerships and creative solutions providing bespoke person-centred health and social care services through six subsidiaries, bridging gaps in provision and aid recovery, reablement and resettlement, supporting thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential services, drop-in centres, community floating support settings (including people's own homes), criminal justice and probation settings, and hospitals awaiting discharge. SIG’s Mission is to create solutions that bridge the gaps in local health and social care, getting people out of hospital, out of prison and off the streets.

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation (the parent company), who together with their subsidiary charities SIG Penrose, SIG Housing Trust, SIG Equinox, SIG Pathways to Independence and SIG Safe Ground, SIG delivers a diverse range of specialist services designed to support people facing complex challenges. From substance use and mental health to homelessness, criminal justice, and personality disorders, SIG’s residential and community-based programmes are tailored to meet individual needs in order to ensure that people in our society have every opportunity to live fulfilled, healthy and constructive lives. SIG also offer dedicated services for women, ensuring gender-responsive support across multiple regions.

They do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, and Kent. They also support people in prisons, currently delivering services in London and Liverpool.

Through their values they are committed to:

• Delivering excellence and innovation
• Promoting equality and mutual respect
• A belief that positive change is possible
• Involving and consulting service users
• Active citizenship and community involvement
• Valuing staff, harnessing their full potential

They are keen to have an inclusive board, therefore backgrounds and experience though important is matched by the need for the passion, ambition and interest to help SIG fulfil its mission.

As mentioned, your background is less important but if you are either within the charity or non-profit sector or within an organisation that operates in a similar environment, engaged in the housing profession or a service user or carer, this is of particular interest to the current board.

The successful candidates will demonstrate:

• A clear commitment to the charity’s mission and values, with a genuine passion for making a positive impact in the community
• The capacity to participate actively and from an informed position
• A willingness to use personal networks and resources of relevance to SIG’s charitable purpose
• A passion for their work, and to promoting SIG and its subsidiaries as an organisation
• A firm understanding and respect for the Nolan Principles of Public Life

There are 4 board meetings per year, both online and face-to-face plus contributions to planning, Awaydays and specialist areas. The total time commitment is in the region of four hours per month.

For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Applications should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

This role is subject to a DBS check, which will be carried out by the charity.

Closing date for applications: 2nd November 2025

Note: Please apply asap as the client will be reviewing candidates and may close earlier if a suitable candidate is appointed.

Join St George’s Hospital Charity Board and help us build a healthier tomorrow for the communities we serve.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 15th October.

Time commitment: Chair (4 days a month) and Trustee (2 days a month)

We are the official charity of St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, supporting St George’s Hospital, Queen Mary’s Hospital, and the wider community. We fund vital improvements to facilities, pioneering research, and innovative projects that enhance the experience of patients, families, staff and the communities served by our Trust.

St George’s Hospital Charity is currently recruiting for two key roles: a Chair of Trustees and an additional Trustee who will serve as Chair of the Grants Arts and Impact Committee.

The Chair provides leadership to the Board with prime responsibility for ensuring it has agreed priorities, appropriate structures, processes and a collaborative, productive culture. The Chair also acts as a key ambassador for the Charity, working closely with the Charity CEO and other stakeholders.

The Chair of the Grants, Arts and Impact Committee provides leadership to the Committee on behalf of the Board, ensuring effective oversight of grants and arts activity, and the measuring and reporting of impact. This role also supports the Board in making informed, transparent decisions about funding and charitable programmes.

Both of these roles are crucial to the success of implementing our newly agreed, ambitious growth strategy.

Both of the roles start on Wednesday 1st April 2026.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 15th October.

Lay Representative 

Are you eager to contribute to a leading educational charity? The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT), the UK's leading body for tax advisers, seeks a Lay Representative for its Council. We promote taxation education and aim for a simpler, more efficient tax system.

About the Role: As a non-voting Lay Representative, you will act as a 'critical friend', offering independent insight and challenging Council perspectives. Your external viewpoint will ensure the Institute benefits the public and upholds its charitable goals.

Key Contributions:

* Contribute to the development, implementation, and monitoring of the Institute's strategy.
* Ensure the Institute conducts its affairs in accordance with its charitable status and objectives, focusing on public benefit.
* Provide Council with a yearly report (approximately one side of A4) on perceptions of the charity's work in the public interest and towards its purposes.
* Utilise your skills to analyse complex issues and contribute constructively to discussions.

Who We Are Looking For: We are seeking an individual with strong governance and committee experience, ideally in a non-executive role, especially within charities or public bodies. You should have excellent analytical and communication skills, capable of engaging in strategic discussions and understanding complex reports. We value interpersonal skills, with proven ability to collaborate with diverse groups and influence constructively.

Important Independence Requirements: To ensure role independence, we cannot accept applications from Chartered Tax Advisers, tax-related professionals, or individuals with recent trustee, employee, volunteer, or business ties to the Institute, or close personal connections with trustees or senior management. Please declare you do not fall into these categories in your application.

Time Commitment & Remuneration: The role involves attending five to six Council meetings annually, including at least two in-person meetings in Central London, plus an annual half-day strategy session. A fee is paid for preparation and attendance at meetings and an hourly rate for other authorised work.

The Lay Representative is paid the following:

•£500 preparation, attendance (including the giving of feedback and any associated emails) for all Council meetings (whether in-person or virtual)

•£71.42 hourly pre-approved rate for all other work, which must be pre-authorised in advance by the Chief Executive via email setting out the work. Such instances are expected to be exceptional.

How to Apply: Please submit:

* A comprehensive CV.

* A cover letter (max 1,500 words) explaining how you meet the person specification and role criteria, including the required independence declaration.

* [Optional] A completed Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form.

Applications must be submitted by email to Rakhi Patel (HR Operations Lead) at CIOT by 29 October 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews between 17 to 19 November 2025.

For an informal discussion about the role, please email Sarah Tempany at CIOT to arrange a conversation with Helen Whiteman, CEO

�� Volunteer with Unify Giving CIC 

We’re building a movement of people who believe giving should be simple, human and direct. Our volunteers are at the heart of that.

We don’t care about age, background, or whether you’ve got a perfect CV.
We care about people who want to be part of a team, learn, and create real impact together.

All roles are 5–10 hours a month, minimum 3 months. You’ll be supported by the Volunteer Manager and the wider Unify Giving team.

Charity Liaison Officer

Be our local connector.

You’ll build bridges between Unify Giving and grassroots charities. This means meeting people, listening to what’s needed, and helping bring them into our network.

What you’ll do:

• Visit local charities and community groups.

• Call and email to introduce Unify Giving.

• Help new partners come on board.

If you’re friendly, curious and enjoy meeting people, this is for you.

✨ Who we welcome

• No age limit. We believe good ideas and energy can come from anyone.

• Perfect if you’re out of work and want to build skills and confidence.

• A great chance to be part of a supportive team working on something meaningful.

�� If one of these roles feels like you, or like someone you know — we’d love to chat.

Arthritis Action is a registered charity, and company limited by guarantee, whose directors are the members of the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees is the ultimate decision-making body of Arthritis Action, and most of the Board also serve as members of committees or working groups which report to the Board. The Board of Trustees is committed to continually improving its governance of the Charity, and meets as a whole on a minimum of four occasions in each calendar year. For efficient operational purposes, the Board of Trustees is also sub-divided into two working Committees - the Finance & Risk Committee and the Remuneration & Nominations Committee. We are currently looking for Trustees with access to an established professional network, who can advise our growing organisation and support the delivery of our exciting strategy.

In particular, we would welcome new Trustees with the following areas of expertise:

• Charity Fundraising & Income Generation
• Law
• Accountancy
• IT & cybersecurity in the charity sector or small business
• Professional experience in the NHS We would particularly like to hear from individuals from under-represented or diverse groups

 The role of the Trustee is to:

• Ensure that:
  • you understand Arthritis Action’s purpose and that you are able to explain how all of its activities are intended to further or support its purpose;
  • the Charity pursues its purposes and objectives, as defined in its Articles of Association, and does not apply its resources on activities which are beyond the scope of its purposes and objectives;
  • the Charity complies with charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations;
  • a high standard of governance is maintained at all times;
  • the Charity complies with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and is appropriately accountable to members, the Charity Commission and other stakeholders;
  • the Charity’s values, principles and good name are upheld in the delivery of its purposes and objectives.
• Act in the best interests of the Charity, its members and its stakeholders at all times, and either avoid or declare potential conflicts of interest.
• Work with fellow Trustees to:
  • set the Charity’s overarching vision;
  • shape and drive the Charity’s strategy; and o ensure that the Charity remains focussed on achieving its strategy by setting targets and evaluating performance against these targets.
• Devote sufficient time to prepare for and participate fully in board meetings, committees or ad hoc working groups.
• Contribute actively in leadership and decision making of the Charity, by making balanced and adequately informed decisions with due regard to the long term as well as the short term.
• Ensure efficient and effective management and administration of the Charity, including establishing internal accountability and making sure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place.
• Safeguard the Charity’s assets and resources and ensure the financial stability of the Charity.
• Use any specific skills, knowledge or experience you have to help the Board of Trustees reach quick and sound decisions by leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which you have expertise.
• Maintain confidentiality in respect of all sensitive information.
• Identify and manage risks with a considered, proportionate and balanced approach.
• Appoint and support Arthritis Action’s Chief Executive and monitor their performance.
• Promote the work of Arthritis Action externally.

Are you a dog lover with room in your home to look after a dog during evenings and weekends? This could be the perfect role for you!

As a Training Dog Fosterer, you’ll provide a loving temporary home to a dog in training, typically for a period of 12 to 20 weeks, as they begin their journey to become a guide dog. You’ll get to see the progress your furry companion is making in their training and be a vital part of their journey, without the commitment of looking after a dog full time.

What you’ll be doing:

In this rewarding role, your support for a guide dog in training will include:

• Doing the school run for your dog in training! This will typically involve dropping them off and picking them up at an agreed time Monday to Friday at one of our regional centres or community teams, however, some sites may vary. There are some locations where we will be able to collect and return the training dog from your home. 
• Caring for your dog in your home such as feeding, grooming, free running and playing, following the advice of our expert staff.
• Helping your dog keep up with their training by reinforcing the techniques at home from our first-class training programme.
• Making sure your dog is not left alone for more than four hours in a 24-hour period. If you’re planning on going on holiday, let us know at your initial phone call so we can plan alternative cover for your future life changer.

Can I foster a dog?

If you’re hoping to foster a guide dog in training, here’s what we ideally look for:

• Being close to one of our regional centres or community teams so that your dog can get to their training. 
• The agreement of your landlord to have a dog in your home if you rent your home.
• A safe and secure area outside for the dog to go to the toilet.

However, we try to be flexible – for example, you’ll still be able to foster a dog if you live in London, even if you don’t have access to outside space. 

What you’ll get:

• The opportunity to have a lovable canine companion!
• The satisfaction in knowing you’re supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well.
• The rewarding feeling of seeing your dog learn new training techniques to help them develop into a guide dog.
• An insight into our bespoke world-class training programme so that your dog’s training stays consistent at home, which can also help you train your own dogs or advance in a future career in dog handling.
• The opportunity to be part of the Guide Dogs community, meeting like-minded people in your area.
• A dedicated volunteer manager and fellow peers who will help support you throughout your role.

Training and support

You’ll attend a training workshop to understand the basics of our bespoke training techniques so you can confidently support your dog’s training at home. You’ll also receive ongoing guidance from your volunteer manager. If you have questions about the training requirements, we can answer these at your initial phone call along with any other support or accessibility needs you may have.

Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any pre-agreed expenses related to volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, dog food costs and other materials needed for your dog’s training.

Minimum age for volunteer is 18.

We also have a respite fosterer role available in some areas, where a dog would stay with you full time before moving on to the next stage of its journey.

Please check out our website to see what roles are available where you live.

NEUROMANCERS CIC is a peer-led organisation providing autonomous, abolitionist, and accessible mental health care for and by the neurodivergent+ community. 

We are looking for volunteers who can dedicate their much-valued time and passion as Media & Admin Coordinators. We are a digitally-based, national organisation so all volunteering will be remote. 

Our Media & Admin Coordinators will support us behind-the-scenes, working both independently and collaboratively. Your main responsibilities will be writing and designing social media posts and newsletters to entertain and inform our community.

If you love creating digital content, are chronically online, and passionate about neurodivergent liberation, this may be the role for you!

Commitment: Minimum six months. Role can be renewed every six months. 

Hours: Approximately 3hrs per week, flexible to your availability. Our volunteer responsibilities are shared between multiple people. 

Tasks: We are a digitally-based, national organisation so all volunteering will be remote. You will be expected to attend monthly meetings and meet deadlines. Most tasks will be done in your own time. 

Criteria: We hope that all applicants have experience relevant to the role of interest. If not, please ensure you clearly outline how you could fulfil the role in your application.

Alongside this, applicants will be...

• Self-identified as neurodivergent+
• Organised, responsible, and reliable communicators
• Able to navigate technology such as email, design templates, or web meetings 
• Aligned with NEUROMANCERS values
• Based in the UK with access to a quiet working space
• Knowledgable about non-clinical peer support practices, Disability Justice, prison, police, and psychiatric abolition and the neurodivergent paradigm
• Committed to anti-racism, LGBTQ+ rights, anti-speciesism, anti-ableism, and total liberation for all

Ready to make a difference to the lives of young people in Croydon?

For over 180 years, Reedham Children’s Trust has provided support to the most vulnerable children and young people in Croydon. We believe every child deserves a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life, and we know that when the right support is offered, family problems and disadvantage need not continue through generations.

Reedham Children’s Trust funds local projects and innovative programmes to tackle the barriers and challenges that too many children and young people in Croydon face daily - which is why we are exploring a merger with Croydon Voluntary Action to create a dynamic new entity that will ensure Reedham’s legacy can continue through new strands and activity.

Our Trustees already play an important role in helping our charity fulfil its ambitions and aspirations by supporting the strategy, providing robust governance and being ambassadors for our work. But as we enter the delivery phase of redefining the charity’s future, we are particularly keen to strengthen our board with fresh Trustees who are aspirational and strategic leaders, from a range of professional and personal backgrounds.

What are we looking for in a new Trustee?

1) We want our Trustees to reflect and understand the communities we serve. Lived experience of the challenges our beneficiaries face is welcomed, as are Trustees who live/work in and around Croydon.

2) We value enthusiasm and commitment as much as experience and professional knowledge. This includes - but is not limited to - individuals early in their careers. If you are a confident communicator with a strong understanding of the importance of strategy, and are ready to commit your time and energy, we will give you the tools to be an excellent Trustee.

3) We are interested in candidates  who are open to learning as well as to contributing from their place of expertise. In particular, candidates with experience of change management, fundraising, marketing/branding and the delivery of projects and services in a local community like Croydon would help during this exciting chapter.

What being a Reedham Trustee can offer you:

• Professional development in governance, safeguarding, finance, advocacy and fundraising.
• The opportunity to support young people in Croydon and improve their life chances.
• Friendly and supportive meetings and engagement with staff and other Trustees as well as visits to projects and partner locations.

Commitment Requirements

• Attend four regular Board meetings a year in and around Croydon (including reading/preparing for meetings) as well as quarterly online briefings.
• Regular engagement with the charity’s work through visits to projects and active participation in meetings and events.
• Engage with information by remote and through digital channels.
• Act as a critical friend in meetings and whenever a new project or activity begins.
• Be an advocate for the charity in your daily life.

For an informal chat with the CEO or Chair of Trustees, please get in touch via email. 

PLEASE NOTE: PREVIOUS APPLICANTS NEED NOT APPLY AND WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

This is a non-remunerated position and all Trustees are asked to give approximately 12 days per annum for meetings, preparation and events.

This role in the current Board structure will run until 31 March 2026, with scope to become a Trustee in the new entity.

Join our amazing volunteer team in this flexible opportunity that puts you at the heart of our work supporting blind and partially sighted people. You’ll make taking part in events and carrying out volunteering easier and more enjoyable for our customers and volunteers with sight loss.
You’ll take some of the stress and anxiety out of getting around and taking part in activities as a blind or partially sighted person. The help you give will encourage people to do more.

What you’ll be doing
• Sighted guiding / giving practical help to individuals in and around venues, so they can take part in events.
• Supporting volunteers with sight loss with their volunteering activities which range from facilitating a regular community group to delivering a talk about sight loss to a local business. Your role would involve things like guiding; Meeting and greeting at group activities or creating a welcoming and interesting display stand at events.

In this role you will only be helping individuals in places open to the public, often in a group setting. We will provide training in sighted guiding techniques and understanding sight loss.

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Event

Key requirements

• This role requires one reference.

Location

Region

• Scotland

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people. • An empathetic and professional manner. • The ability to take the supportive and helpful role.

BOARD TRUSTEE – COMMUNITY MEDIATION [TREASURER] 

Role: Charity Treasurer 
Reporting To: Board of Trustees 

Are you passionate about reducing community conflict? Do you have desire, skills and capacity to help to our small & mighty charity improve its financial administration, assist us in our fundraising efforts, and help us ensure that we continue providing our much-needed services to the local community? If you're skilled in charity fundraising and/or finance, we would love to hear from you.  Previous or current trustee board experience is not essential. 

ABOUT US 
Brighton and Hove Independent Mediation Service (BHIMS) is a charity that has been working to reduce conflict in the local community for over 30 years. As part of Sussex Mediation Alliance, our core services cover community mediation and conflict coaching in Brighton & Hove, and Lewes areas, while also providing workplace mediation and training services. Operationally, we are run by a small team of paid staff, and our core work is delivered by 50+ volunteer mediators.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR  
We currently have a very active board of 5 trustees and are looking for additional board members to expand on current skillset and help the charity deliver even better service to our community in a sustainable and optimised way.

Specifically, we need our new board members to help us manage financial risks, optimise ways the charity operates and help us secure funding for our future. While helpful, previous or current trustee board experience is not essential – while you need to be willing and able to understand and accept the responsibilities of being a trustee, this could be your first board role. 

Overall, we are looking for someone who: 

• Brings different perspectives, skills and ideas to conversations and decision making 

• Shares our vision and values, a strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and a real desire to support the local community 

• Seeks to collaborate, and thrives working in a team while using impartiality, common sense and independent judgement 

• Conducts trustee-related activities at approximately 5 hours per month 

• Can attend in-person and/or online monthly meetings and our AGM 

WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING  
Alongside our existing board members, you will be jointly involved in all board responsibilities, shaping the future direction of the charity and helping ensure the charity is carrying out its purpose and all resources and funds are used only in furthering its charitable objective. You will be preparing for and attending monthly board meetings, contributing to board discussions and decision making, and assisting in setting the direction for future fundraising efforts. 

Working closely with the Chair of Trustees and Finance Officer you will: 

• Oversee our charity’s financial health and administration, ensuring our strategic objectives and legal / regulatory obligations are met and all financial risks are managed 

• Provide guidance on the charity's financial viability and strategy and the financial implications of strategic and operational plans 

• Report financial information - budgets, internal management accounts, and annual financial statements - to the board. 

• Ensure we maintain proper accounting records and robust financial controls, as required by statutory bodies. 

• Lead on the development, implementation and monitoring of financial reserves, cost management, financial and investment activity and policies, ensuring alignment with our aims and legal responsibilities. 

• Act as a signatory for banking processes and funding applications. 

SKILLS / EXPERIENCE  
 To have a real impact as a BHIMS Trustee Treasurer, you’ll need: 

• A strong understanding of sound financial administration and governance in the charity sector 

• An ability to communicate clearly and provide financial information in an accessible format for the board.

• An ability to think strategically and exercise independent judgment.

• Strong commitment to the charity's aims and values.
   

BENEFITS
By volunteering as a trustee with BHIMS, you will: 

• Become part of an energetic board who are passionate about peaceful dispute resolution and making a difference to the lives of those who need it most. 

• Have an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the local community and contribute to our city’s vibrant charity /voluntary sector. 

• Share your knowledge and experience and build new skills and expertise. 

• Develop a deeper understanding of the drivers and solutions of community conflict. 

• Have a chance to attend events and learn about community mediation and conflict coaching. 
   

RSPCA London South East Branch

This is an exciting opportunity to pass on your legal and GDPR compliance expertise whilst helping the RSPCA to; promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things.

Overview of the Branch Trustee – Legal and GDPR opportunity

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a legal background, who could devote their time to volunteer as a trustee at the London South East Branch and support us with GDPR compliance.

Alongside passing on your expertise, this opportunity will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental, alongside fellow trustees, in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether the trustee takes on additional duties.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824, we have been saving animals for 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. We are the RSPCA and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. Our volunteers are incredible, they play an essential role in helping us carry out our important animal welfare work every day.

The RSPCA London South East Branch

The London South East Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

The London South East Branch has two retail shops (Sydenham Road and Norwood Road) and supports the work of the Inspectorate through rehoming of animals within the branch area.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Legal and GDPR

• Assist the Branch in ensuring that activities are GDPR compliant and reviewing and updating the Branch processing activities register.

• Support the Branch in developing and updating Branch policies, particularly the Branch privacy notice and internal data protection policy, to make sure they are compliant.

• Support the Branch when liaising with external specialist providers such as HR and health and safety specialists.

• Support with liaising with external specialists for advice on shop leases when necessary.

• To assist the Branch when developing new schemes, such as providing welfare assistance to those on low incomes, to ensure any new schemes are GDPR compliant.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.

• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.

• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).

• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.

• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.

• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.

• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.

• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside legal and GDPR compliance experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

No previous trustee experience? That’s OK! We welcome applications from anyone interested in developing their skills by becoming a trustee and will provide relevant training.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – Legal and GDPR

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.

• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.

• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.

• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.

• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.

• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.

• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.

• References will also be required.

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee

For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee, and to ensure it is the right decision for you view the Government Charity Trustee Guidance.

There is some information on the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees, and we have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.