Community outreach and events volunteer volunteer roles

We are looking for pro-active, enthusiastic and motivated young professionals to join our board - you can help lead the strategic development of one of Dundee’s most promising and dynamic charities!

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates who are young people with lived experience of mental health and wellbeing challenges.

THE DETAILS

Feeling Strong is an exciting Dundee-based charity with the ambition to improve the lives of young people living with mental health and wellbeing challenges by fostering the skills, confidence and aspirations they need to flourish. Our services are designed by young people, delivered by young people for the benefit of young people, and we believe that this youth-led/peer-led approach is our biggest asset in tackling issues around mental health and wellbeing. We support stable recovery journeys for young people, lead campaigns to tackle societal issues, develop quality resources based on our own research, and tackle the disparity they face in unemployment, underemployment and accessing opportunities like further and higher education.

YOUR COMMITMENT

Whilst the Trustee Board meets for formal meetings 6 times a year, successful candidates will be expected to contribute to the organisation more widely, taking part in fundraisers, external events, strategic planning and advising the staff team when needed. The average contribution expected of Trustees is around one - two hours per month.

Work-related travel costs will be reimbursed.

APPLYING

Training and induction will be provided so we are open to all candidates, and we expect them to develop skills once in post, but we would welcome candidates with any of the following experience:

• Governance and previous board experience

• Business development and trading income generation

• Human resources

• Lived experience of mental health and wellbeing challenges

• Financial background

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.

Volunteering in the shop

Our Kimberley Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children.

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related).

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.

Volunteering in the shop

Our Portchester Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children.

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related).  

How to apply 

Express your interest on email via the apply button.  

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.

The Reader is recruiting volunteers to lead Shared Reading groups in Runcorn and Widnes within Liverpool City Region

Volunteer opportunities have arisen to train as a group leader with the UK’s largest Shared Reading charity based in Liverpool. 

The Reader is recruiting volunteers to lead community Shared Reading groups at Halton Lea Library on Fridays, 2pm - 3.30pm which is open to all, while also welcoming speakers of other languages, and a second ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) group at Widnes Library on Wednesdays, 12.30pm - 1.30pm (beginning September 2025), to support their wellbeing. 

At Shared Reading groups, people connect and share experiences using stories and poems. There is no pressure to talk or read aloud.

Why Volunteer at The Reader? 

As a Volunteer you will receive in-depth training, as well as ongoing support from the charity, both online and at our home in The Mansion House, Calderstones Park. You will also become part of a thriving community of ‘Reader Leaders’ who lead groups across the city and the country. 

Group leaders extend the charity’s mission to take Shared Reading to those who need it most. The Reader’s aim is to create an atmosphere of inclusivity where everyone feels at home. Applicants do not need to be a literature expert. Anyone is welcome to apply. 

100% of new community volunteers would recommend volunteering with The Reader (2024)

What can you gain from being a volunteer at The Reader? 

• Make a meaningful difference to others. 
• Deepen your personal experience of reading. 
• Be part of a passionate volunteer community. 
• Contribute to building a more connected and inclusive society. 

The Reader is looking for someone with:  

• A passion for bringing diverse people together in their community. 
• Empathy, patience, the ability to listen and to hold a range of perspectives. 
• A desire to explore a range of literary texts and genres. 
• Reliability and commitment to leading a regular Shared Reading group.

BE THE DRIVING FORCE

Lead SUNSHINE as in the Volunteer role of SUNSHINE Charity Manager!

Are you a natural leader ready to build something truly extraordinary from the ground up?

SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, born to combat loneliness and infuse our community with joy and connection. We're on the brink of lighting up countless lives, but to truly take flight, we urgently need a passionate Charity Manager to lead us from the front!

This is more than a role; it's an exhilarating challenge for someone who thrives on getting things done, connecting with people, and seeing immediate impact. As our Charity Manager, you will be the strategic heartbeat and the energetic face driving SUNSHINE forward. You'll work hand-in-hand with our Founder and Board of Trustees, turning vision into vibrant reality.

Your mission, should you choose to accept it:

• Lead from the Front: Be the dynamic force getting SUNSHINE fully up and running in the community.
• Be Our Voice: Connect with local groups, partners, and residents, building our presence on the ground.
• Drive Operations: Oversee the launch of our vital programmes, ensuring everything runs smoothly and effectively.
• Empower Volunteers: Inspire, guide, and grow our incredible volunteer team.
• Change Lives: Directly enable the genuine connections that transform individuals from isolation to belonging.

If you are passionate, dedicated, and committed to taking on this pivotal, flexible volunteer role, and you're ready to see the direct results of your leadership in a grateful community – this is your moment.

Your leadership will directly bring SUNSHINE to those who need it most.

Join the Wheels for All Volunteer Team – Help Us Make Cycling Inclusive for Everyone!  

Do you want to make a difference in your local community? Are you passionate about inclusion, wellbeing, and having fun outdoors? Join Wheels for All, a national charity making cycling accessible for disabled people and those with long-term health conditions. 

We believe everyone should experience the joy, freedom, and empowerment of cycling. Our inclusive cycling sessions are only possible thanks to a diverse team of dedicated volunteers—and that’s where you come in! 

 What You’ll Get Involved with: 

• Support people to use adapted cycles during sessions 

• Help with setting up and packing away equipment 

• Provide a friendly, welcoming environment for participants and families 

• Be part of a fun and supportive volunteer team 

Volunteer Benefits 

• Claim reasonable expenses in line with our Volunteer Expense Policy 

• Receive a Wheels for All branded uniform 

• Access volunteer training courses to support your development 

• Be part of an inspiring, positive, and supportive charity culture 

No experience? No problem! 

We provide full training, including disability awareness and safety, and ongoing support from our team and fellow volunteers. 

What are we looking for? 

• An approachable and friendly nature 

• Good interpersonal and communication skills 

• Empathy and an understanding of individual needs 

• Patience and an inclusive approach to engagement 

• Adaptability and flexibility in changing situations 

• A team-oriented attitude 

• Positivity, honesty, and integrity 

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to take initiative 

• Some cycling experience is helpful but not essential 

Why volunteer with us? 

“The best thing about volunteering is seeing the happy faces! The riders come back beaming—it’s amazing to be a part of that joy.” – Dave, Volunteer 

“People that aren’t normally able to get out cycling can come here and join in and enjoy the great outdoors. I really enjoy volunteering with Wheels for All because I can visibly see how the simple act of cycling brings a lot of happiness” - Vince, Volunteer 

You’ll Gain: 

• Confidence and new skills 

• Connections and friendships 

• Improved mental wellbeing 

• A chance to be part of a national movement for inclusive cycling 

• Recognition through social events, newsletters, and volunteer awards 
  
  Join us—and help make cycling accessible for all.  

MAKE A REAL IMPACT!

Become SUNSHINE's Programme Manager!

Are you a natural organiser with a knack for bringing plans to life and a passion for creating meaningful community connections?

SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, dedicated to combating loneliness and radiating joy. We're looking for a Programme Manager to be the driving force behind our short, focused programmes, ensuring they run smoothly and effectively, helping us gather evidence of our impact to help us shape future programmes.

This pivotal role is about more than just administration; it's about making our mission a reality. You'll be the person who turns our ideas into impactful experiences for those who need them most.

You'll be responsible for:

• Planning and Logistics: Organising our monthly and 6-weekly programmes from start to finish.

• Volunteer Coordination: Working closely with our volunteers to recruit, train, and schedule them for programmes.

• Service User Liaison: Acting as the main point of contact for the people we support, ensuring their needs are met.

• Feedback and Evaluation: Gathering feedback to continuously improve our programmes and their impact.

If you are organised, proactive, and committed to delivering high-quality programmes that genuinely change lives, and you're seeking a flexible volunteer role where your leadership skills can have a profound impact – this is your chance to shine.

Ready to help us bring more SUNSHINE to our community?

We'd love to welcome you to our team!

Job Title: Data Analyst                                                                                     

Reports To: Department Manager 

Location: Remote

Employment Type: Volunteer (12 hours/week for 6 months)

About the Project – “Solta o Jogo”
“Solta o Jogo” is a vibrant cultural competition and festival that celebrates Brazilian heritage through Capoeira, music, dance, acrobatics, and a Brazilian arts fair. Hosted at Kingston University Townhouse, this event engages the local community through free performances, classes, and exhibitions.

As part of this project, we are looking for a Data Analyst who can help us measure community impact, inform decision-making, and contribute to continuous improvement across programme delivery. This is a hybrid volunteer role, ideal for someone based near Kingston (travel expenses will be reimbursed). You’ll gain valuable experience working in the non-profit sector and help shape a high-profile cultural programme that has received praise from local councillors, Kingston University, and the Brazilian Consulate in London.

Position Overview:
The Data Analyst plays a key role in supporting Quilombo UK’s community and cultural initiatives by collecting, managing, analysing, and reporting data related to engagement, outreach, and programme impact. This role is crucial to enabling data-driven decision-making across teams and enhancing the visibility of outcomes to stakeholders and funders.

Key Responsibilities:

Data Collection & Management:

• Gather, clean, and manage datasets from sources including attendance logs, feedback surveys, fundraising data, and project reports.

• Ensure data integrity, confidentiality, and organisation across internal records.

Analysis & Insight Generation:

• Identify trends and patterns to evaluate the effectiveness of “Solta o Jogo” programming.

• Support strategy development through analysis of community engagement, volunteer participation, and performance indicators.

Reporting & Visualisation:

• Build user-friendly dashboards and visuals to support internal teams and partner reporting needs.

• Present clear summaries and insights to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Work with Programme, PR, and Marketing teams to align data insights with communication strategies and outreach efforts.

• Provide data-driven inputs for programme evaluation and future planning.

Continuous Improvement:

• Support the design of outcome tracking tools, surveys, and templates.

• Suggest enhancements to reporting systems and support data-driven fundraising efforts.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree or working toward a qualification in Data Science, Statistics, Economics, Public Health, Social Research, or related field.

Experience:

• Experience working with spreadsheets and large datasets.

• Demonstrated ability to collect, clean, and interpret data using Excel or Google Sheets.

• (Desirable) Familiarity with tools like Power BI, SPSS, R, or Python.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

• Excellent written and verbal communication.

• Ability to translate complex data into accessible reports.

• A proactive, collaborative, and detail-oriented mindset.

Benefits:

• Contribute to a nationally recognised cultural project with real community impact.

• Gain valuable experience in data analysis within the Third Sector.

• Build a portfolio of data visualisation and impact reporting work.

• Receive support and mentoring from a collaborative and diverse volunteer team.

• Reimbursement of local travel expenses.

Equality Statement

Quilombo UK is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. We promote equal opportunities in line with the Equality Act 2010. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated, and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

This is an exciting opportunity to influence and impact the educational experience and outcomes of children in east Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Hartlepool. At the heart of our trust is the aim to nurture, educate, achieve and transform the lives of all young people within the communities we serve across the North East.

We are a mixed Multi-Academy Trust, with eight schools (6 primary, 2 secondary) and a mix of community and Church of England schools. We are a fully inclusive, working with a range of stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes and destinations for our pupils. 

NEAT is looking for people to join our Local Governing Committees (LGCs) as school governors. We're open to hear from any candidates who are motivated to contribute to the enhancement of education in our schools, whether that be with years of education experience, or with new insights and innovative thinking about how schools and Academy Trusts can and should support learners and other stakeholders.

Our LGC members (school governors) come from a wide range of backgrounds. What they have in common is that they want to help our schools be the best they can be and our pupils to succeed. People who know our local communities bring real insight to the LGC.

We're especially keen to support people who may not have much opportunity to be involved in governing bodies, and those from underrepresented groups. If you have a passion for supporting pupils and some relevant skills or experience, we're keen to hear from you.

As a governance volunteer, our LGC members have the opportunity to use and develop their skills in:

• building relationships and networks
• teamwork
• communication and influencing
• strategic thinking
• problem solving
• using data
• leadership and Board practice
• specialist areas such as Careers, Health & Safety, Special Educational Needs (SEND), or Safeguarding

Being a school governor is not only a great way to use your existing experience and expertise in your community, but is a great way to learn new skills, receive training in leadership and board skills, upskill and make a difference. There's a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional development, networking, and working with a range of people from different backgrounds, professions, and life experience.

Our governance volunteers (school governors) have direct impact in the community through:

• decision making in the best interests of pupils to improve their education, wellbeing and future prospects and raise community aspirations
• shaping school policies and aims, allowing teachers to focus on delivering high-quality educational experiences
• stakeholder engagement to ensure that the voices of staff, parents, pupils and other stakeholders are heard

Most LGC members have a four-year term of office, except for co-opted members who are appointed for one year. They attend around four meetings each year, which are usually held late afternoon/early evening during term-time. LGC members are also involved in scrutiny activities in school, which usually happen once or twice a term during the school day. LGC members also participate in decision-making panels (for admissions and exclusions) for schools in the Trust. The average time commitment for our LGC members is 8-12 hours per month.

NEAT takes safeguarding seriously, and all governance volunteers are required to undertake a vetting process (including DBS check) during appointment to best safeguard our pupils and schools.

St John Ambulance Cymru has ambitious plans in place and a new strategy. We are seeking a new trustee with experience of Marketing and Communications to join our board.

We require someone with a strong background in marketing and/or communications at a senior level, who understands the challenges of marketing and communications in Wales. This knowledge will support our leadership team in developing and delivering an effective strategy to enhance our brand presence and audience engagement.  An understanding of marketing regulation and governance is key, alongside experience in public relations and digital outreach to ensure that the charity’s message and impact resonate with a wide audience.

In this role you will be helping, supporting and guiding us on our journey, willing to be a strong advocate for the charity and having the skills and expertise to steer the charity towards achieving our strategic priorities. You will also of course live our values of Compassion, Quality, Inclusion and Integrity.

St John - Worldwide

St John is an international charity with 900 years of history that in modern times provides first aid, health care and support services in over 40 countries around the world. Together the 44 Priories make up the Order of St John.

St John - in Wales

St John Ambulance Cymru (SJAC) is an independent Priory within the Order of St John. We are a working Order of Chivalry of the British Crown with His Majesty the King as its Sovereign Head, which is accredited to the United Nations.

We are Wales’ leading first aid charity. Our new 2025-2030 Strategy has the mission of “Wales as a Community of Lifesavers”.In order to do this we have 4 strategic objectives:

1. Experience: We want to be the best volunteering offer in Wales. We want our St John people to have the best experience, training, leadership, and equipment.

2. Maximising the potential of our Children and Young People.

3. Increasing our focus on Community Education.

4.  Making St John more inclusive and sustainable.

We work closely with NHS Wales and the Welsh Ambulance Service University Trust (WASUT), We provide on-site first aid and medical services at events across Wales from local events in your community to international sporting and cultural events.

In order to do this we have around 2000 St John People, a mixture of employees and volunteers as well as around 800 Children and Young People.

For more information and the Trustee Recruitment Pack please visit the St John Ambulance Cymru website.

Do you live in Wales and want to gain valuable skills, have new experiences, and support vulnerable people?

We are offering 1 young person aged 18-25 the opportunity to volunteer for 3 months with the Spanish Red Cross in Manresa (Creu Roja Manresa). Placements dates are planned for: September 2025 – December 2025 (subject to visas).

You will be supporting the Creu Roja Manresa youth team’s work with children and young people from excluded backgrounds e.g. migrants, those in the travelling community, homeless families and/or those with poor socio-economic conditions. You will assist in providing practical support e.g. a place to wash clothes, shower, have a meal, and assist with supported environment activities for children e.g. psycho-social support, support with homework, and a space to play.

You will support 3 projects run by the youth team which are thematically linked by humanitarian action at a community level, aimed at preventing social exclusion and improving young people’s well-being.

• Casal-ot: offers 3 hours of evening activities for a group of children, aged 3 -12 years old, during weekdays. Children are divided into groups and rotate through hands-on games, board games, and computing. Those with homework receive help with it, and each child has a responsibility in the kitchen (clearing, laying the table, washing up etc) related to the evening meal.
• Ludugurus: the Ludoteca is a bespoke building based over three floors, providing youth group activities for different age ranges during weekday evenings between 5.30 and 8.30pm. The groups are aged 6-10, 10-12 and 12-14 and the Ludoteca offers an outdoor space to play football, a homework room for quiet study as well as computers for games, board games and arts and crafts projects.
• JNA (Jo’venes Nu’cleo Antiguo (Teenagers from the Old Town): attended predominantly by boys, JNA is based around designated outdoor space which includes a football pitch/basketball court. The age range is between 12-16, for 2 hours per evening, and includes a different sport each week, as well as occasional workshops on health, sexuality, healthy eating etc. The football team may also play at weekends in local leagues.

This is a great opportunity to get involved in these projects and find out what you are interested in. The main thing we want to see is your motivation for this placement!

Typical tasks may involve:

• Running activities with children, using your own initiative and creativity
• Meeting with staff and volunteers to plan, monitor and evaluate activities
• Supporting activities with young people
• Studying Catalan for at least one-two hours per day in order to facilitate integration into the host community and the project.
• Getting involved in other activities and/or services of the Red Cross in Manresa that may be of interest to you
• Please note that only young people based in Wales can apply for this role. Interviews will take place online with shortlisted candidates.

We are keen to hear from individuals especially those who do not normally get the chance to volunteer overseas, who are passionate and motivated about working in the humanitarian sector and international volunteering but who also understand that these types of placements require adaptability and resilience. We are especially interested in applications from those who are from low socio-economic backgrounds, are carers or are care experienced, have accessed free school meals, are refugees or asylum seekers and those with disabilities or additional needs.

Please note that only young people (aged 18-25) based in Wales can apply for this role. Depending on the situation at the time, we will either run an in-person selection day or run zoom interviews with shortlisted candidates.

Are you passionate about supporting people to improve their language and communication skills? If you’re knowledgeable in the field of ESOL and able to facilitate engaging, in-person sessions for adult learners, we’d love to hear from you! 

Purpose of role 
We are looking for a highly motivated, experienced and creative tutor with excellent interpersonal, numeracy and digital skills; excellent written English and efficient organisational skills to teach one of our outreach classes in South Kensington, London every Saturday from 16:00-18:00.

Start – 07/06/2025 (negotiable)

End – 02/08/2025 (negotiable)

The course is aimed at learners designed for English speakers of other languages at Entry 3/ Level 1 who want to further develop their English language skills along with their employment skills. Learners can choose to specialise in retail, care or other vocational area. Learners will focus on the fundamentals required in a working environment, bolstering their confidence in writing and reading skills and communication abilities.

Skills/ experience

• CELTA or similar qualification is desirable
• Teaching experience is desirable

The aim is to support adult learners who need to improve their English language skills, working both individually and as part of the Adult Education team to plan and deliver an agreed number of ESOL courses. 

You need to: 

- Be passionate about helping people achieve their potential 

- Be a qualified ESOL practitioner (CELTA, DELTA, DTTLS ESOL or Literacy) 

- Be knowledgeable in your subject field 

- Be able to carry out effective planning, monitoring and evaluation of courses 

- Demonstrate a high level of computer literacy 

- Be able to use your own initiative, and to organise and prioritise your workload 

- Be able to meet deadlines and work under pressure 

- Be able to identify and implement changes in existing systems 

- Be able to maintain excellent working relationships with colleagues and students 

- Demonstrate awareness of and commitment to the safeguarding and promotion of welfare of vulnerable adults, according to the charity’s ethos 

- Be committed to the provision of a quality service and the implementation of quality improvements 

- Demonstrate awareness of and commitment to valuing equal opportunities and diversity 

- Be committed to taking a full and active role in the life of the charity and be committed to its aims and values 

- Have a flexible approach to work and be able to work flexibly throughout the week/over the year by prior agreement 

 - All applicants must have the right to work in the UK 

About Nova 
Based in North Kensington since 1983 and serving its poorest wards and those of surrounding London boroughs, Nova works with individuals from marginalised and disadvantaged communities who are looking to develop their potential and achieve a better future for themselves. Nova brings about real and lasting change in people’s lives by addressing every person as an individual and seeking out ways to best support that person to reach their goals. We endeavour to help every person that comes to us who is motivated and committed to improving his or her life.   
  
Reaching 2,000+ people each year, we: 
• Develop knowledge, education and confidence  
• Connect diverse groups   
• Provide opportunities  
  
Our work, operates on 2 levels:  

• Grassroots Community Support – including responsive actions (e.g. Grenfell, COVID-19), adult education, IAG, family programme and volunteering  
• Wider Reaching Dialogue Events and Influencing – focussing on challenging stigma, prejudice and inequality – working with individuals, organisations, networks and decision makers to move through conversation to action  ​ 

This is an exciting opportunity to influence and impact the educational experience and outcomes of children in east Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Hartlepool. At the heart of our trust is the aim to nurture, educate, achieve and transform the lives of all young people within the communities we serve across the North East.

We are a mixed Multi-Academy Trust, with eight schools (6 primary, 2 secondary) and a mix of community and Church of England schools. We are a fully inclusive, working with a range of stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes and destinations for our pupils. We also have a national research school, which aims to build and strengthen networks of schools throughout the region and help them access effective education research and implement it in everyday practice.

NEAT is looking for people to join our Trust Board of Directors. We're open to hear from any candidates who are motivated to contribute to the enhancement of education in our schools, whether that be with years of education experience, or with new insights and innovative thinking about how schools can and should support our learners.

We're especially keen to support people who may not have much experience on a Board, and those from underrepresented groups. If you have a passion for supporting pupils and some relevant skills or experience, we're keen to hear from you.

Our Directors work closely with our school governors and school leaders and have direct impact in the community through:

• decision making in the best interests of pupils to improve their education, wellbeing and future prospects and raise community aspirations
• shaping policies and strategic direction, allowing schools to focus on delivering high-quality educational experiences
• stakeholder engagement to ensure that the voices of staff, parents, pupils and other stakeholders are heard

Africa Sustainable Journeys

ASJ is a purpose-driven social enterprise offering immersive, ethical travel experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. Founded after a life-changing encounter with the Batwa community in Bwindi forest, our mission is to empower local people, preserve cultural heritage, and promote conservation through sustainable tourism.

Environmental Challenges

Climate change poses a significant threat to the ecosystems of Uganda and Rwanda. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events are altering the delicate balance of the region's ecosystems. This, in turn, disrupts wildlife habitats, impacts local communities, and threatens the regions' rich biodiversity. For instance, changing weather patterns are affecting the migratory patterns of animals, leading to increased human-wildlife conflict and wildlife distinction.

Conservation efforts in Uganda and Rwanda are also facing significant challenges. Habitat destruction, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict are major threats to the regions' endangered species, including mountain gorillas, elephants, and lions. The destruction of habitats is largely driven by agricultural expansion, urbanization, and infrastructure development, which have resulted in widespread deforestation and land degradation. This not only threatens biodiversity but also leads to soil erosion, loss of fertile land, and decreased agricultural productivity.

Waste management and pollution are additional environmental concerns facing Uganda and Rwanda. The rapid growth of urban centers has led to an increase in plastic waste, agricultural runoff, and other pollutants, which contaminate water sources, soil, and air. This poses significant health risks to local communities, who rely heavily on natural resources for their livelihoods. Furthermore, the lack of effective waste management systems and pollution controls threatens the regions' natural beauty and biodiversity.

Social Challenges Poverty and economic inequality are pervasive in Uganda and Rwanda, particularly in rural areas. Limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities perpetuate poverty and inequality, creating a cycle of disadvantage that is difficult to break. Many communities lack access to basic services, such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity, which exacerbates poverty and inequality. Furthermore, the lack of economic opportunities and limited access to markets and resources hinder the ability of local communities to improve their livelihoods.

Cultural exploitation is another significant social challenge facing Uganda and Rwanda. The commercialization of cultural heritage and traditions can lead to cultural erosion, exploitation, and loss of cultural identity. The tourism industry, in particular, can perpetuate cultural exploitation, as local communities are often pressured to perform cultural rituals and practices for tourists, leading to the commodification of culture. This can result in the loss of cultural significance and meaning, as well as the exploitation of local communities for economic gain.

Displacement of local communities is a further social challenge facing Uganda and Rwanda. Unregulated tourism development can result in the displacement of local communities, loss of land, and cultural heritage. The construction of tourist infrastructure, such as hotels and lodges, can lead to the displacement of local communities, as their land is taken over for development. This can result in the loss of livelihoods, cultural heritage, and community cohesion.

To address the social and environmental challenges in Uganda and Rwanda, we've established a policy framework guiding our project development. Our "Choose Your Impact" initiative allocates 2% of tour proceeds to local community projects, 1% to Sustainable Travel International's Climate Impact Portfolio for carbon offsetting, and 1% to local conservation initiatives.

Our projects tackle specific social and environmental challenges. Through our partnership with St. Kizito Junior Academy, our Rural Education Support Program bridges the educational gap for vulnerable children in rural Uganda. Where we are committed to improving infrastructure, provide essential resources, and support the school's efforts to deliver quality education, empowering disadvantaged children in Mpigi district, Njjanya village.

We also empower teenage mothers in the Rwenzori region through our partnership with Platform for the Needy, providing them with skills training, education, and economic empowerment. This support enables them to improve their socio-economic status, overcome marginalization, and participate fully in their communities.

In partnership with Ride 4 a Woman and Azizi Life, we promote community-based tourism, enabling guests to engage in cultural exchange programs and homestays. This approach injects income into local economies, supports local people, and fosters cross-cultural understanding.

Environmentally, we promote sustainable wildlife tourism practices, support conservation efforts, and protect wildlife habitats. We invest in sustainable infrastructure, implement environmentally friendly practices, reduce waste and carbon emissions, and support reforestation and climate action initiatives.

Our social responsibility commitment extends to addressing inequality and social exclusion among the indigenous Batwa community in Uganda. Our Batwa Healthcare Support project provides comprehensive medical care, health education, and community outreach. We also partner with Guardian Gorilla Village on the Goats for Gorillas project, supporting sustainable livelihood solutions for reformed poachers' families and reducing threats to gorillas and wildlife.

Call for Remote Volunteers!

Africa Sustainable Journeys is seeking passionate and skilled individuals to join our remote volunteer team! As a remote volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to contribute your skills and expertise to support our mission of promoting sustainable tourism and community development in Uganda and Rwanda.

Marketing Volunteer

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

We are Africa Sustainable Journeys, a social enterprise dedicated to creating a positive impact through sustainable tourism and community development in Uganda and Rwanda. We are seeking a talented Marketing Volunteer to help amplify our message and enhance our online visibility. As a key member of our team, you will play a crucial role in boosting our online presence, fostering meaningful partnerships, and supporting our fundraising efforts for rural education, Batwa healthcare, and teenage mothers.

If you are passionate about marketing and creating a meaningful impact, we would love to hear from you! This volunteer role offers flexibility, whether remotely or on-site in Entebbe, Uganda, and you will have the opportunity to develop your skills while contributing to a worthwhile cause. Apply now and join our mission to drive positive change!

Weekly Time Commitment

2-3 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

6+ months