Community services volunteers volunteer roles in ormskirk, lancashire
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.
We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Preston group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.
In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills.
Time Commitment
We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.
You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Preston area to carry out this role.
The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
JOB BRIEF
We are seeking a strategic and persuasive Campaigner to join our advocacy team at The IWI: International Women’s Initiative. In this critical position, you will leverage your extensive political acumen and strategic insight to influence legislation and policy on behalf of The IWI. The Campaigner will play a critical part in shaping public policy and advocacy initiatives that align with our mission and objectives. They will serve as a key liaison between our organisation and governmental entities, ensuring that our interests are effectively represented and advanced. Ideal candidates for this role possess a keen understanding of advocacy, the legislative process, excellent communication skills, and an unwavering commitment to the human rights of women. We encourage applicants who may not meet every requirement to apply. Your unique experiences and perspectives could be a valuable addition to our team.
RESPONSIBILITIES
o Establish and maintain relationships with elected officials, policymakers, community leaders, coalitions, advocacy groups and other stakeholders to promote The IWI's objectives;
o Monitor and report on legislative developments and emerging issues that may impact The IWI;
o Collaborate with internal teams to align lobbying efforts with broader organisational goals and messaging;
o Draft and advocate policy proposals, position papers, policy briefs, reports, and testimony to articulate our stance on key issues, while representing The IWI in public forums;
o Prepare reports and recommendations for senior staff;
o Draft and disseminate press releases, position papers, and other communication materials to promote The IWI advocacy initiatives;
o Utilise social media platforms to enhance public engagement and support for The IWI lobbying efforts.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
o 5+ years of experience in change behaviour, lobbying, public policy and government relations, with a proven track record of successful advocacy and campaigns efforts.
o Deep understanding of the legislative process and the political landscape (in the USA, Europe specifically), particularly as it relates to CEDAW;
o Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to articulate complex policy issues clearly and persuasively;
o Experience in developing and maintaining strategic relationships with key stakeholders, including lawmakers, industry groups, and grassroots organisations;
o Strong network of contacts within the legislative and regulatory community; media and related NGOs.
o Able to work independently with minimal supervision;
o Ability to manage people and multiple projects simultaneously.
Preferred:
o Advanced degree in public policy, political science, law, or a related field;
o Experience in women’s human rights relevant to The IWI's mission;
o Proven ability to navigate complex political environments and build consensus among diverse groups;
o Membership in relevant professional organisations or certifications in lobbying or advocacy is a plus.
TECHNICAL SKILLS AND RELEVANT TECHNOLOGIES
o Proficiency in using advocacy management software and tools for tracking legislation and stakeholder engagement;
o Strong analytical skills to assess the impact of proposed legislation on organisational objectives;
o Familiarity with social media and digital advocacy platforms to enhance outreach efforts.
SOFT SKILLS AND CULTURAL FIT
o Advanced interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset, capable of working effectively with diverse teams;
o Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for advocacy;
o Integrity and professionalism, demonstrating a commitment to ethical lobbying practices;
o A passion for public service and a deep understanding of the issues affecting women’s human rights globally.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Role: Head of Local Operations (Scotland & Northern Ireland)
Job Description:
Youth Advantage UK is seeking a volunteer Head of Local Operations to lead the launch and on-going delivery of its commissioned research projects in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The focus of these projects will be obtaining and analysing primary and secondary data in order to help smaller community organisations improve their ways of working and effectively report on their impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring their teams deliver these projects within the agreed time-scales and in line with the goals agreed with the commissioning organisations, growing Youth Advantage’s reputation and reach.
Working closely with the Departmental Director, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to effectively contribute to the organisation’s ability to enable evidence-based, positive local change. They should have excellent leadership, writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.
This role reports directly to the Director of Local Operations.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for trustees who will offer challenges, experience, and expert knowledge to help us think differently. We are looking for individuals who will take an active role in the governance of the Charity and support our expansion objectives - to remain financially stable whilst actively growing our volunteer network, our geographical coverage and our paid services to increase the number of families and young people we can support each year.
Person specification:
• Good, independent judgement and strategic vision.
• Commitment to the organisation and a willingness and ability to devote the necessary time & effort to the role.
• An understanding of, or interest in, special educational needs and disability affecting children and young people and their families.
• Skills to analyse proposals, examine their strategic consequences and make concise recommendations as part of the Board.
• Ability to cooperatively work with the whole team of trustees, and with employees and volunteers.
• Willingness to speak your mind and appropriately challenge other trustees and employees; but also listen to the views of different people before reaching a decision.
• Secure personal access to digital communication technology with an ability to competently and efficiently use those resources.
• Willingness to be available to employees for advice and enquiries on a scheduled or ad-hoc basis.
The ideal applicant would also possess the following:
• Extensive networks, and a willingness to draw on contacts as appropriate.
• Experience of working at a senior management / leadership level.
We are keen to hear from anyone who has a passion for our cause and feels that their experiences and expertise could be beneficial to our Board.
If you would like to be considered, please contact us for an application form link and provide a copy of your CV.
The application process will comprise of a two-stage interview, followed by referencing. We anticipate that successful applicants will be invited to join the Board in Autumn 2025.
We look forward to hearing from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Description:
Youth Advantage UK is seeking a volunteer Head of Local Operations to lead the launch and on-going delivery of its commissioned research projects in England and Wales. The focus of these projects will be obtaining and analysing primary and secondary data in order to help smaller community organisations improve their ways of working and effectively report on their impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring their teams deliver these projects within the agreed time-scales and in line with the goals agreed with the commissioning organisations, growing Youth Advantage’s reputation and reach.
Working closely with the Departmental Director, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to effectively contribute to the organisation’s ability to enable evidence-based, positive local change. They should have excellent leadership, writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.
This role reports directly to the Director of Local Operations.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for women who hold feminist values and principles and who are passionate about the mission and values of TRC. We are particularly looking for Trustees who have relevant qualifications and/or experience in the following areas:
- Safeguarding, offering support to the chair and safeguarding leads with the management of safeguarding cases and keeping up to date with best practice
- Legal and Governance, including strategic planning and understanding of the wider political Greater Manchester landscape
- Human resources and personnel management, including a knowledge of employment legislation
- Financial management, planning and budgeting
- Public Relations, Marketing and fundraising, including awareness raising and campaigning through social media
- Capacity building and training, especially for volunteers
- Women’s health and mental health, outreach and partnership work with local services
TRC was set up in 2010 to provide a free, confidential and non-judgemental specialist support service run by women for women and girls who have experienced any form of rape, sexual abuse or sexual violence at any time in their lives. We are a feminist organisation and we actively challenge the values, beliefs and behaviours that contribute to women’s
oppression. Our mission is to raise awareness about sexual violence through providing training, guidance and information and working in partnership with local service providers and communities to promote the values of TRC.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Trans Learning Partnership (TLP) is in the process of evolving into a new, independent charity: the Trans Research Partnership (TRP). This transition will be completed by the end of 2025. As part of this transition, we’re recruiting up to five founding trustees to help shape the future of TRP.
TRP will be a trans-led research charity that centres trans voices and produces rigorous, community-led research to inform policy, practice, and public understanding. Our values include trans leadership, intersectional justice, ethical rigour, collaboration, safety, autonomy, imagination, and hope.
We’re looking for people who:
- Are committed to trans liberation and TRP’s mission
- Can contribute time and skills to setting up a new charity
- Bring experience in governance, research, fundraising, equity, or community organising
We especially welcome applications from the global majority, those with working-class backgrounds, and others underrepresented in charity leadership.
Time commitment: ~1–2 days/month. Meetings are remote-first. Expenses reimbursed. Training and mentorship provided.
Deadline: Wednesday 13th August 2025 at 23:59
Interviews: 26 or 28 August (online)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Say Aphasia is seeking an enthusiastic and skilled volunteer grant writer to join our small but dedicated team. As a proactive member of our charity, you will help secure funding to support people living with Aphasia—a communication disability that affects over 360,000 people across the UK.
Job description:
As our Grant Writer you will be responsible for identifying appropriate grant opportunities, and managing the grant development and proposal process from research to submitting grant applications with any supporting documents.
As our grant writer, you will:
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Identify appropriate sources of funding where we fit their criteria.
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Write appropriately tailored grant/funding bids that meet funders’ interests and requirements and to write any additional documents in support of funding bids.
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Help develop a Trusts and Foundations strategy to help create and maintain strong and diverse income that meets Say Aphasia’s funding needs.
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Create a calendar of grant deadlines and track submitted funding proposals.
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Help us develop a case for support.
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The bid writer will receive a percentage from successful funding received from their submitted applications.
If you are an experienced grant writer or you just enjoy researching and persuasive writing then we would love to hear from you.
We are looking for a someone who has:
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Experience of being a grant writer, project proposal writer, marketing, or nonprofit development.
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Excellent writing, analytical, and research skills are essential.
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Creative and persuasive written and spoken communication skills.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to inspire and engage diverse audiences.
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Self-motivated and highly-organised.
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Ability to work remotely.
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Ability to search online databases and other sources to identify appropriate funds.
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An understanding of how grant funding works, and the variety of requirements from different Trusts and Foundations.
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Ability to organise your own work, track and report back regularly.
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Ideally have a good network of people, organisations and charities which can help us to support our projects.
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Determination to get the job done.
You would be working closely with the charity’s Service Manager, with regular updates and remote meetings as needed. We have an induction process that will help successful applicants to understand how our charity operates. We would like to offer the volunteer a commission on successful grant applications.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join us and help lead change for anyone affected by ME.
Can you help us deliver our mission to improve the lives of all people affected by ME by becoming a new Trustee on our Board?
With the recent launch of the UK Government Delivery Plan for ME/CFS, and some critical research partnerships on the horizon, now is an exciting time to join us and play a pivotal role in our work to secure a better future for people with ME.
As a Trustee, you will have a vital role within Action for ME, establishing a clear and shared vision, setting policies and acting in the best interests of Action for ME and people with ME. We are particularly looking for people who bring: Scientific and/or research expertise; healthcare and/or information, support and advocacy experience; Policy experience at local or national level; Communications and/or marketing expertise.
If you have experience in any of these areas and share our ambition for a better future for people with ME, we want to hear from you.
Trustee - Role Description
Duties of a Trustee are as follows:
- To ensure that Action for ME complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association,charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
- To ensure that Action for ME pursues its charitable objects as defined in its Memorandum of Association
- To ensure Action for ME applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives
- To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees role in establishing a clear and sharedvision for Action for ME, giving firm strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against the agreed targets
- To act in the interests of Action for ME and for people with ME in general
- To safeguard the good name and values of Action for METo ensure the effective and efficient administration of Action for ME
- To ensure the financial stability of Action for ME
- To protect and manage the property of Action for ME and to ensure the proper investment of charity funds
- To appoint the Chief Executive and to monitor his or her performance and determine his or her remuneration.
- In addition to the above statutory duties of all Trustees, each Trustee should use any specific knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions
- To represent Action for ME as appropriate.
Time Commitment:
The time commitment expected of a Trustee is approximately six days per annum, including an AGM, preparing for and attending Board meetings, and involvement in at least one of the sub-committees: Audit, Finance & Fundraising; Public Affairs & Communications; Research; Healthcare Services; or Remunerations & Nominations.
We hold an away day once every two years. Additional time may be required dependent on circumstances/needs. You will receive a full induction and support upon appointment.
We do ask that Trustees make a commitment to at least one, three-year term of office.
Trustee - Person Specification
All Trustees must demonstrate:
- A commitment to the organisation, its cause and demonstrate an understanding of MEand its impact
- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort Strategic vision Good, independent judgment
- An ability to think creatively
- A willingness to speak their mind
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship
- An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
- A willingness to participate in at least one sub-committee, as appropriate
- A commitment to working within Action for ME’s values and principles of working,including Nolan’s ‘Seven Principles of Public Life’:
a. Selflessness
b. Integrity
c. Objectivity
d. Accountability
e. Openness
f. Honesty
g. Leadership.
- Be willing to sign relevant statutory and other forms (eg for opening bank accounts).
Specific requirements:
While we are open to applications from people who meet the person specification, we regularly review the skills and backgrounds of our Board members and are specifically looking for people who bring:
- Scientific and/or research expertise
- Policy experience at local or national level
- Communications and/or marketing expertise.
How to Apply
If you are interested in becoming a Trustee, please submit:
- Your CV, including all employment/voluntary roles since you left full-time education ensuring any gaps or time out is accounted for and
- A completed ‘Equal opportunities monitoring and information form’ (provided separately)
- A covering letter outlining why you would like to become a Trustee and how you meet the person specification outlined above, including how you meet the specific requirements we are currently looking for.
Please also indicate any reasonable adjustments that you may require to enableus to provide a good recruitment process with you.
You will be informed of the outcome of your application and any potential interviewdates with the Chair, the Chief Executive and another Trustee. We will be invitingpeople for interviews as applications come in and will close recruitment when we fillthe current vacancies.
Equity of access
We strive to ensure equity which includes being as accessible as possible to attract Board members with a diverse range of experience and insight. If you don’t meet the person specification fully, please do consider contacting us for a discussion as youmay be our ideal candidate!
We will consider all requests for reasonable adjustments within the parameters ofensuring Trustees are able to enact their legal responsibilities and accountabilities.
Our mission is to improve the lives of people affected by ME. Better meeting their needs today while taking action to secure change for tomorrow.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
FareShare Merseyside redistributes quality surplus food to over 232 community-based organisations who are working with vulnerable people across the region and parts of North Wales. We are keen to expand our reach, actively looking to recruit charity members who want to help us in our Warehouse, Vans, and Kitchen.
Volunteering with FareShare Merseyside
Our volunteers are at the heart of our service, with an amazing team of almost 100 volunteers, who ensure quality surplus food reaches those most in need in all communities in our region. As a thank you for their support, we hold regular wellbeing social events and offer pathways onto our employability program.
Why we need you:
This role is vital to the work of FareShare, ensuring that food is safely delivered to our Community Food Members or collected from our food suppliers. A standard driving licence is all you need to deliver our food once or twice a week to children’s clubs, homeless hostels and refuges in your area.
What will I be doing?
- Safely driving vans to deliver and collect food
- Representing FareShare in a courteous and professional manner at all times
- Completing all relevant paperwork
- Planning routes, sorting food, picking orders, loading and unloading.
- Carrying out routine checks on the vans, taking responsibility for the vans throughout the day and reporting accidents or damage to the van or other vehicles
- Assist in the maintenance of the vans including cleaning
What we need you to be:
- Minimum of 18 years old and hold a full, clean driving licence
- Confident to drive a medium-sized van (experience is preferable)
- Good at map reading and/or able to use a Sat Nav system
- Positive, friendly and personable, able to interact well with different people
- Enthusiastic about tackling food waste and/or food poverty
- Able to perform physical tasks including lifting and loading
- Good with numbers, identifying different foods, writing clearly
- Able to work effectively and use your initiative in a fast-paced environment
- Able to work well in a team and on your own
- Able to follow FareShare’s policies & procedures
- Flexible – there may be times when we ask you to help on other projects/tasks
What will I get out of it?
- An active and sociable role
- Development of skills such as route planning, organising and communication skills
- Support and supervision from the Regional Volunteer Manager
- An induction and training for the role
- Reasonable travel expenses and a free lunch
- A fun and friendly place to work
- The opportunity to take on new challenges
- A work reference for those who have satisfactorily committed to at least 3 months
- The opportunity to support a great cause and give something back to your community
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Project
Creative Health &… is a series of snapshots designed to promote the benefits of creative health across different healthcare settings. We intend for these to be used to inform our research about who is integrating creative health into their services.
At Cayr Charity, we are looking for volunteers to support the research and writing of these short documents, ensuring they are informative, accessible, and practical.
What’s Involved?
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Each volunteer will take on 1 to 3 topics, depending on their availability and expertise.
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Volunteers will conduct light research, compile key evidence, and draft content using a structured template provided.
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The aim is for each to be around 600 to 800 words each (depending on findings) and will follow a consistent format which will be provided.
Time Commitment
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Estimated 8-10 hours per one-pager, including research and drafting.
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Work is flexible and can be done remotely at your own pace.
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Drafts are due within 5 weeks of you starting, with feedback provided.
Topics Available
Volunteers can choose from one of the topics below. If you would like to suggest a topic instead of these, please do let us know in your application.
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Creative Health &... Social Prescribing
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Creative Health &... Dementia
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Creative Health &... Primary Care
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Creative Health &... Public Health
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Creative Health &... Mental Health
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Creative Health &... Community X Health (for example Veterans, Women, Refugees)
Who Can Apply?
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, including:
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Creative health practitioners & researchers
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Health and social care
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Writers, editors, or communicators with an interest in health
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Students or professionals interested in public health, arts in health, or social impact
No prior experience in health writing is required, just research skills, an ability to write clearly, and an enthusiasm for creative health!
Support & Resources
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A structured template to ensure consistency
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Access to key reports and resources for research
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Feedback & editing support to refine your work
Why Get Involved?
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Help shape an important national resource
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Gain experience in research & writing for the health sector
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Learn more about creative health & its impact
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Be credited in the final publication (if desired)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Join Design in Mental Health Network as a Trustee and help shape the future of mental health environments. Provide strategic guidance, support innovation, champion co-production, and ensure our work delivers real-world impact through inclusive, evidence-based design.
About DiMHN:
The Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN) is a UK-based charity dedicated to transforming mental health environments through inclusive, evidence-based design. Our network brings together professionals from healthcare, design, policy, and lived experience to improve mental health outcomes and create spaces that promote dignity, safety, and healing.
Role Overview:
As a Trustee, you will help guide the strategic direction of DiMHN, ensure effective governance, and champion our values. Trustees are expected to provide strategic oversight and contribute expertise to subgroups or advisory functions.
Why Join Us
Joining the Board of DiMHN presents an opportunity to shape the future of mental health environments across the UK and beyond.
You’ll be part of a passionate, forward-thinking community working at the intersection of design, care, and lived experience.
As a Trustee, you’ll:
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Shape strategic direction to drive meaningful change in mental health environments across the UK and beyond.
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Collaborate with a diverse network of leaders, experts, and lived experience advocates, influencing the future of mental health design.
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Provide governance and oversight that ensures the charity’s growth, sustainability, and impact.
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Champion inclusivity by elevating voices often excluded from design and decision-making processes
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Influence policy, standards, and innovation at national and international levels to embed evidence-based design in mental health care.
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for people who believe in the power of design to change lives. Whether you come from healthcare, design, research, lived experience, or another walk of life, if you’re motivated by the idea of creating more inclusive, compassionate mental health environments, we want to hear from you.
We have two Trustee vacancies and warmly welcome applications from both first-time trustees and those with previous board experience.
We value fresh perspectives and offer support to help you thrive in the role. We are especially interested in individuals who can bring insight in one or more of the following areas:
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Mental Health Services & Policy: Clinical, community, lived experience, commissioning, or estates, facilities and planning.
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Digital Health & Technology: Expertise in AI, immersive tech, digital platforms, or digital strategy in care settings.
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Finance & Commercial Strategy: Income generation, business development, or financial planning in health, social impact, or design sectors.
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Research & Evaluation: Academic or applied research, impact measurement, or policy analysis.
We’re also looking for Trustees who embody our values:
At DiMHN, our work is grounded in our core values. We’re looking for Trustees who reflect these values through both mindset and action:
Be Courageous – You’re willing to ask challenging questions, confront assumptions, and help push boundaries to make mental health spaces more inclusive and compassionate.
Empathy in Design – You understand that good design starts with empathy. Whether through lived experience or professional perspective, you value collaboration and co-production with those who access mental health care and support.
Evidence-Led, Impact-Driven – You’re curious, reflective, and motivated by real-world change. You use evidence to guide decisions and are focused on outcomes that make a difference.
Improve Together – You believe in learning together. You’re generous with your skills and committed to helping the DiMHN and the wider sector grow stronger through collective action.
Send your CV and a short written or video/audio statement (max two pages or five minutes)
In your statement, tell us why you’re interested, what you’d bring, and any support you might need to thrive in the role.
The Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN) is a charity dedicated to improving the design of mental health environments.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Women's Aid Luton is seeking a visionary and dedicated Chair of the Board to lead and support the transformation and growth of our small yet impactful charity.
Women’s Aid Luton supports over 800 of society's most vulnerable women and children each year, helping them escape horrific abuse and violence. We provide a safe haven across our five refuges in Luton, operate a helpline, and offer bespoke assistance for families. Our services include access to legal advice, mental health support, employment assistance, and resettlement aid.
One of our refuges is dedicated to women from South Asian communities, with staff who speak Punjabi, Bengali, and Urdu. We also have a refuge for single women with complex support needs, such as mental health issues and drug and alcohol dependencies, often stemming from the trauma of domestic violence and abuse.
In addition to our direct support services, we focus on prevention and intervention by working with schools to raise awareness of domestic abuse. We are committed to disrupting exploitative and abusive relationships to prevent loss of life and reduce the long-term economic and social costs to society. Our services contribute to creating a safer, more compassionate community, supporting women and children from diverse socio-economic, religious, and cultural backgrounds, including those with complex needs.
With the current challenges facing our sector, we are focused on creating financial sustainability and resilience within the organisation, focusing on a robust funding strategy and a dynamic response to risk.
Our current Chair will come to the end of their term next year, and therefore we’re seeking a new Chair to support the charity in delivering our vital work.
The Chair of Trustees is a pivotal role within our organisation. Your leadership and dedication will be instrumental in ensuring we not only maintain but also expand our vital support and services for those in need. By guiding our strategic vision and fostering a culture of compassion and excellence, you will directly impact the lives of countless vulnerable women and children, helping them rebuild their lives and find hope for the future. Your commitment will drive our mission forward, creating lasting change and a safer, more supportive community for all.
What are we looking for?
EXPERIENCE
- An understanding and passion for the violence against women and girls sector
- Significant experience as a non-executive
- An understanding of UK charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees
- Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level
- An ability to network with both internal and external stakeholders.
- Sensitivity and discretion in dealing with staff and service user issues.
- Significant experience and success in leading groups of people in either a professional or voluntary capacity to achieve results.
- Experience of chairing meetings.
- Significant experience of managing, motivating, and developing people.
- Strong experience of developing, deploying, and evaluating strategic plans with a view to maximising impact and benefit.
- Experience of financial management and a broad understanding of charity finance issues
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Exceptional leadership skills; able to cultivate effective collaboration but also comfortable in taking responsibility for difficult choices.
- Effective strategic communicator: able to articulate Women’s Aid Luton’s vision and engage and inspire others both within the organisation and externally.
- Highly effective relationship and alliance building abilities.
- Sound judgement with high capacity for self-reflection.
- Capacity to support both Board and Executive development.
- An ability to work within the realistic expectations and limitations for the Charity
ATTRIBUTES
- Dynamic leadership style that guides and inspires the Board and Executive to fulfil their respective responsibilities.
- A strong personal commitment to improving Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
- Collaborative approach with excellent interpersonal skills.
- A strong personal commitment to Women’s aid Luton’s vision and mission replace with: Demonstrate a strong and visible passion and commitment to the charity, its strategic objectives and cause
- Demonstrate tact and diplomacy, with the ability to listen and engage effectively
- Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of the charity
- Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours
TERMS OF APPOINTMENT
The initial appointment is for a three-year term but can be extended for one further term for a maximum of six years.
“Joining Women’s Aid in Luton as a Board member has enabled me to use my professional expertise in a way that gives back to the community. I know that all the energy and time I give is helping to strengthen the organisation and ultimately the women and children it seeks to support. Joining the Board has been immensely rewarding and I highly recommend it as a valuable way to volunteer your time for a good cause.” – current Board Trustee at Women’s Aid in Luton.
Due to the sensitive nature of this role, we will be considering female volunteers only for this post in accordance with the provisions of the Occupational Requirement (Equality Act 2010, pursuant to schedule 9 part 1). Applicants will be required to have a satisfactory enhanced disclosure through the Disclosure and Barring Service.
We actively encourage applications from women from a variety of backgrounds, and with a range of skills and experiences. We are particularly interested to hear from women from Black, Asian and minoritised communities and women who have personal experience of domestic abuse.
If you have some time, energy and interest in the domestic abuse sector and believe you can make a difference to Women’s Aid Luton, we would love to hear from you.
We aim to reduce the devastating impact of gender-based abuse/exploitation on all women and children, through safeguarding, empowerment and education.
Location: Worldwide
Term: Voluntary – Unpaid (reasonable travel expenses can be claimed)
Closing date: 31st July 2025
Inspired by the Islamic faith and guided by our values, we envisage a caring world where communities are empowered, social obligations are fulfilled, and people respond as one to the suffering of others.
We provide lasting routes out of poverty, empowering people to transform their lives and serving all communities without prejudice.
As an independent faith-based humanitarian and development organisation, Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) has been serving humanity for 41 years. With an active presence in over 40 countries across the globe, we strive to make the world a better and fairer place for the three billion people still living in poverty.
Since we were founded in 1984, Islamic Relief has grown into one of the world’s largest relief and development charities, touching the lives of over 120 million people.
Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) is seeking to appoint 1 (one) individual to join our International General Assembly (IGA).
Following appointment to the IGA, independent members are eligible for nomination to the BoT after 1 year as an IGA independent member.
Appointments on the BoT are for a 4-year term limit.
The IGA is the highest body of the new Islamic Relief Worldwide governance structure and consists mainly of representatives elected by Islamic Relief family members across five continents, creating a body that is truly globally representative. It is from the IGA that IRW draws its trustees.
We would like to hear from exceptional applicants with considerable experience and specialist knowledge in a range of professional backgrounds: law, accountancy, audit, humanitarian programming, PR/communications, marketing or fundraising, IT, charity financial policy and strategy, shariah compliance. Those selected will play a vital role in IRW’s strategic work and in helping us respond to key challenges.
As a member of the IGA, it is expected you will be fully committed to the organisational objectives of IRW, sharing our vision, mission and values. You will be expected to attend meetings and be willing to devote the necessary time and effort to the role and to act in the best interest of IRW’s work and its rightsholders.
The Role
Key responsibilities:
- Participate in the oversight of the organisation in accordance with its statutory obligations, making sure that IRW satisfies its regulatory and legal requirements as a charity
- Act in a manner which supports the organisation in meeting aims and objectives as set out in IRW governing documents, and in ensuring IRW long-term security
- Focus on strategic planning and governance when setting IRW priorities and objectives
- Participate in the approval of annual plans, strategies and budgets
- Support the financial stability of the charity and contribute to its effective and efficient administration, reviewing and approving financial strategies and monitoring income and expenditure, to ensure the organisation is in good financial health
- Promote IRW’s vision, mission and values and demonstrate IRW’s values in all of the IGA’s work.
About You
We are seeking exceptional candidates with a breadth of leadership experience who can enhance the strategic development of IRW and have the following skills and qualities:
- A deep commitment and passion for IRW’s faith inspired values, vision and mission
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
- Considerable professional experience and specialist knowledge in one or more of the following – law, accountancy, audit, humanitarian programming, PR/communications, marketing or fundraising, IT, charity financial policy and strategy, shariah compliance
- Strategic vision and critical thinking skills
- Skills in problem solving and conflict resolution
- Legislative and operating framework for charities/voluntary and community sector organisations, especially an understanding of Charity Commission requirements
- A good understanding of the context IRW operates within
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; enjoys teamwork
- Willing to be an ambassador for IRW
- Demonstrates past public conduct, statements and behaviour that are in line with IRW’s values and expectations of the role
If you are interested in these roles, please review the information pack before applying.
How to apply:
To make your application for the IGA position, please visit the link for instructions.
The deadline for applications is: 31st July 2025.
PLEASE NOTE: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications without a cover letter will not be accepted.
Pre-appointment checks:
Any appointment with Islamic Relief will be subject to the following checks:
- Enhanced screening clearance
- Receipt of satisfactory references including the Inter-Agency Misconduct Scheme Reference
- DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
- Personal social media review
Our values and commitment to safeguarding
IRW is committed to preventing any type of unwanted behaviour at work including sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse, lack of integrity and financial misconduct; and committed to promoting the welfare of children, young people, adults and beneficiaries with whom IRW engages. IRW expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct. We place a high priority on ensuring that only those who share and demonstrate our values are recruited to work for us.
The post holder will undertake the appropriate level of training and is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation.
The term will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks, which can include criminal records checks. IRW also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme.
In line with this Scheme, we will request information from every applicant’s previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment.
By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms his/her understanding of these recruitment procedures.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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About Us
My Black Dog is a charity that offers anonymous, peer to peer mental health support through our web-chat service. We are committed to making a positive impact on mental health in the UK as we tackle an epidemic that millions of people face.
We were founded on the motto "talk to someone who gets it". We want to connect people who share lived experiences to provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space where everybody understands how it feels to experience mental health struggles.
Position Overview
Our web-chat service is run by our Volunteer Pack, each of whom have their own lived experience of mental health challenges. In addition, each shift has a 'Leader' and a 'Mentor'. These are Volunteers who carry out specific roles during the shift and, together, ensure its success:
- Leaders - Managers of the shift. There to ensure the shift runs as it should. They support and guide Volunteers through chats and follow safeguarding processes when an alert is raised. They escalate safeguarding alerts to the shift’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (a trained professional). They also complete a 'Shift Handover' document once the shift is completed.
- Mentors - There to support and guide Volunteers through chats. Will take over from the Leader if there are safeguarding issues that need the Leader's attention and/or if the Leader needs a break.
As My Black Dog looks to expand our opening hours, we are looking to recruit additional Leaders who can run shifts and provide cover when necessary.
Leaders will be assigned a shift based on your availability and preference. The expectation is that Leaders and Mentors will form a ‘pair’ and, together, will do one shift at the same time each week. This is to provide stability, predictability and to encourage community-building between Volunteers. Shifts are usually 3 hours long. We may ask you to cover another shift when we are short, but you will never do more than 6 hours per week.
Training will be provided and you will be supported on shift by a Designated Safeguarding Lead, who will manage all safeguarding issues.
The work you will do as Leaders will ensure we provide the best possible service to our Guests. You will also be helping our Volunteer Pack to do what we do best: helping those in need by speaking to someone who 'gets it'.
Who We Are Looking For
We are looking for people who have experienced their own journey with mental health and are in a strong position to support others. We ask that our Leaders:
- Are strongly committed to helping others
- Have experienced mental health issues in order to relate to those seeking help
- Are collaborative and enjoy working with others
- Are encouraging and supportive
- Are organised and can monitor several things at once
- Can remain calm and focused during busy times and when safeguarding alerts are raised
- Are 18 years and over
- Can commit the time to a regular weekly shift
We are particularly interested in hearing from people who are available to run a shift on the following days/hours:
- Monday to Sunday, 5pm-7pm
- Thursday to Saturday, 7pm-10pm
Role Responsibilities
- Supervise and support Volunteers whilst on shift with general enquiries, positive feedback and signposting.
- Assist with general volunteering enquiries whilst on shift. Provide time for guidance, instruction and de-briefing for Volunteers if required.
- Follow Leaders processes including unexpected absence reporting, Volunteer check-in and check-out, and completing Shift Handovers.
- Monitor web-chat conversations and ensure all chats are tagged.
- Maintain ability to listen, remain calm and provide intervention if necessary.
- Be able to have difficult and often complex conversations about mental health, including Guests experiencing crisis and first-stage intervention support.
- Work alongside the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) when safeguarding risks are identified.
- Exercise discretion in handling confidential situations and information, conveying sensitive information in a timely manner to necessary individuals.
- Provide written follow up of shifts via handover, ensuring all necessary information is handed over at the end of the shift.
- Adhere to all standards, policies and procedures of My Black Dog.
Please note: An Enhanced DBS Certificate is required for this role. If you do not have one, My Black Dog will arrange the DBS Check for you.
www.myblackdog.co
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.