Community volunteer roles in maidenhead, berkshire

Wheels for All is a national charity that helps people of all abilities enjoy cycling in a way that works for them. Supporting more than 100 inclusive cycling hubs with over 30 years of experience, we’ve seen first-hand how cycling can change lives - improving health, confidence and community connection.

We’re now growing our national reach and impact, and we’re looking for new Trustees to join our Board and help guide us through this exciting next stage.

About the role

As a Trustee, you’ll help shape the direction of the charity, support good decision-making, and make sure we stay focused on our mission to make cycling accessible for everyone. We’d especially like to hear from people who:

• Have experience in communications, PR, campaigning or public engagement, and can help us share the power of inclusive cycling with more people across the UK
• Have strong networks or local knowledge in areas that are currently least well served by inclusive cycling - especially the North East, East Midlands or South West

If that’s not your background, please don’t be put off. We welcome people from all walks of life who share our passion for inclusion and want to make a difference.

Our Trustees also get involved in one or more of our focus groups, including:

• Governance and Risk
• Nominations, People and EDI
• Welfare, Safety and Safeguarding
• Finance
• Income Generation

We follow the Tier 3 Code for Sports Governance, which means we’re serious about running the charity to the highest standards - but we do it in a supportive, friendly and collaborative way. Full induction and training is provided.

Who we’re looking for

You don’t need to have been a Trustee before - we’ll help you learn the ropes. You just need to bring:

• A thoughtful, practical approach
• Willingness to ask questions and share ideas
• The ability to work well with others
• Commitment to equality, inclusion and fairness
• A bit of time and energy to get involved

How to apply

• Apply via othe link, and please upload your CV and a cover letter showcasing how you’re the perfect fit for the role

Our vision for volunteering

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

The difference you will make to cats and people

From elderly moggies to energic kittens, every day across the UK cats and kittens are in need of a temporary place to stay, and lots of love and TLC! We need more fosterers like you to provide a safe, temporary haven for cats and kittens and provide them with everything they need before they get their chance to land on their four paws and make a house a home.

You can expect us to 

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Ensure you have all you need in place to foster the cat(s) in your care, for example equipment and food
• Cover all your foster cats’ expenses and agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunitie

Home-Start Berkshire East is an empowering, visionary family support service built on trusted relationships and rooted in the community. Looking forward, we are ambitious for our future, and looking for a Safeguarding Trustee to join us.

What you will be doing:

This role has a specific focus on promoting awareness of safeguarding and bringing experience, expertise and knowledge to the scrutiny of safeguarding arrangements and promotion of best practice within the Charity. The role will take the lead in taking oversight of our activities and performance related to safeguarding; be involved in the development of our services; and be a key enabler for our organisation to fulfil its potential and deliver on our ambition. It is important that you have an understanding of key questions to ask  and answer for the Board before making decisions relating to the future operation of new services.

What we are looking for:

Ideally you will have experience in Local Authority, Social Work Dept or Health and Social Care Trust with responsibility for safeguarding or working as a teacher and playing a key role relating to safeguarding

Kidney Research UK is the leading charity in the UK focused on funding research into the prevention, treatment and management of kidney disease. As a member of the board of trustees you will be responsible for setting the strategic aims, objectives, and direction of the charity. You will use your knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure we achieve our charitable objectives and represents the interests of all stakeholders.

Kidney Research UK has been at the forefront of pioneering research for six decades, investing in talented researchers and funding work that could ultimately lead to a cure. Our work has resulted in vital breakthroughs in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of those affected, changing the future for many kidney patients.

We have made remarkable progress but there is still much to do. The number of people living with kidney failure continues to rise and we must go further to drive innovation and increase investment in renal research. Of course, like so many other charities and organisations we are doing this important work during challenging times.

We have adapted well to the changing world, and we are finding exciting new ways to reach our goals. We know we must rise to the challenge for kidney patients everywhere and we remain determined to grow our income so we can deliver more impact.

Our trustees play a vital role in the governance of Kidney Research UK, which enables and accelerates the impact that we have as an organisation for our patient community. Working closely with your fellow Trustees, the chief executive and wider leadership team, you will be part of a team that guides and oversees the delivery of Kidney Research UK's strategic priorities. We have a number of trustees who are due to retire from their roles during the next 12 months, and we are looking for new trustees to join our board and be part of this exciting transformation.

If this sounds like you and you think you could make a difference, we’d encourage you to review the attached role description below and apply to join our dedicated board of trustees.

Location: Reading, Berkshire
Sessions: Wednesdays, 7:00pm–8:00pm
Start date: From February 2026 onwards
Time commitment: Approx. 2–6 hours per month (flexible dependant on availability)

About The Club

Support United (Support Utd) is a fun, social football club that meets weekly in Reading. The club is designed to give people within the LGBTQIA+ community the opportunity to play football in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. Our focus is on enjoyment, learning, and building confidence — no matter your experience level. Sessions are open to adults aged 18+ and welcome players of all abilities.

About the Role

We’re looking for a Volunteer Assistant Football Coach to support the running of our weekly sessions. You’ll work alongside the lead coach to help deliver inclusive, enjoyable football sessions for a group of around 10–12 players (with potential to grow in future).

This role would be ideal for someone with an interest in coaching or sport, particularly those studying sports science, coaching, physical education, or a related subject. It would also be perfect for someone who is a part of, or a strong ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. 

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting the lead coach during weekly football sessions

• Assisting with session set-up and pack-down

• Helping to deliver drills, activities, and small-sided games

• Supporting basic club management tasks, such as:

  • Communicating with players

  • Assisting with attendance and session organisation

• Helping create a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment for all participants

About You

Essential:

• Applicants must be over the age of 18

• An interest in sport and physical activity, particularly football

• Able to participate in light to moderate physical exercise

• You have a friendly and approachable manner, and enjoy working with a diverse range people with different backgrounds and lived experience

• A confident, positive “can-do” attitude, with the energy and enthusiasm to get involved and help make sessions engaging, enjoyable, and welcoming for all players

• Reliability and commitment to attending sessions regularly

• Strong communication and organisation skills

• Be based in, or near to Reading, Berkshire

• Willing to undergo a DBS check

• Evidence of completed safeguarding and first aid training or willingness to complete required training

• Must have appropriate footwear for use on a 3G astro turf pitch (astro or moulded stud football boots). Trainers and metal stud boots are not permitted on the pitch.

Desirable:

• Some experience of coaching or leading sports activities

• Studying (or interest in) sports science, coaching, physical education, or a related field

• An understanding of, or interest in, LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sport

• Additional relevant training qualifications

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to gain coaching experience in a supportive setting, by shadowing and learning from our brilliant lead coach

• The opportunity to develop leadership and communication skills

• Experience supporting an inclusive LGBTQIA+ sports programme

• A chance to be part of a welcoming, values led team

• Training and development opportunities

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Schools across Reading are looking for skilled volunteers to support education by becoming school governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

• Ensuring accountability
• Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team
• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress
• Budgetary allocation and control
• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation
• Setting the school’s aims and values
• Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

The governing body is usually split in to a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees will meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting.

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority and the local community.

What are we looking for?

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs.

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management are all useful to a school. But soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a school governor is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

• help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community
• work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network
• gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up.

RSPCA North West London and South Hertfordshire Branch

Our RSPCA charity shop in Eastcote is looking for friendly volunteers to join the team.

About Our Shop

RSPCA, 114 Field End Road, Eastcote, HA5 1RL

The shop is part of the RSPCA North West London & South Hertfordshire Branch. It plays an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community, as well as raising much needed funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824, we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It’s always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

About the Role

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team of other volunteers helping to make the shop a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare. Our volunteers assist us in many ways, such as accepting and sorting items donated by the public, preparing items ready for sale, processing sales through the till, assisting customers with queries, and helping to merchandise the shop floor.

Who are we looking for?

We’re currently looking for people aged 18 or over who are friendly, team players, are comfortable communicating with colleagues, customers and donors, and who can make a regular commitment of at least one 3-hour per shift per week for a minimum of six months. Retail experience is not essential.

In return, we can offer the chance to develop or learn new skills, a way to meet new people in your local area, and the satisfaction of making a huge difference to the lives of animals in your local community!

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!

We hope you are interested in volunteering for the RSPCA North West London and South Hertfordshire Branch.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

RSPCA North West London and South Hertfordshire Branch

Our RSPCA charity shop in Kenton is looking for friendly volunteers to join the team.

About Our Shop

RSPCA, 225 Kenton Road, Kenton, HA3 OHD

The shop is part of the RSPCA North West London & South Hertfordshire Branch. It plays an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community, as well as raising much needed funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824, we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It’s always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

About the Role As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team of other volunteers helping to make the shop a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare.

Our volunteers assist us in many ways, such as accepting and sorting items donated by the public, preparing items ready for sale, processing sales through the till, assisting customers with queries, and helping to merchandise the shop floor.

Who are we looking for?

We’re currently looking for people aged 18 or over who are friendly, team players, are comfortable communicating with colleagues, customers and donors, and who can make a regular commitment of at least one 3-hour per shift per week for a minimum of six months. Retail experience is not essential.

In return, we can offer the chance to develop or learn new skills, a way to meet new people in your local area, and the satisfaction of making a huge difference to the lives of animals in your local community!

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!

We hope you are interested in volunteering for the RSPCA North West London and South Hertfordshire Branch.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

LIVN Global is a faith-based charity dedicated to bringing hope and transformation to remote communities across the world by providing access to clean water, education, and sustainable development projects.

As we grow, we are seeking a volunteer Grants & Fundraising Officer to help us secure funding and build partnerships that will extend our reach and impact.

Responsibilities

• Research potential grant opportunities, trusts, and foundations aligned with our mission.
• Write compelling and precise grant applications & funding proposals.
• Develop creative fundraising initiatives and campaigns to engage individuals, churches, and organisations.
• Build and maintain relationships with donors and partners.
• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop a sustainable funding strategy.
• Ensure compliance with grant conditions, internal processes and relevant data protection standards.

Requirements

• Strong written communication skills with an ability to inspire through words
• Experience in grant writing, fundraising, or bid writing (desirable but not essential – training may be provided).
• A passion for social justice and a heart for Christian ministry.
• Confidence in managing multiple priorities whilst working with accuracy and own initiative.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisation skills
• Ability to work independently and keep things moving.

Benefits

• Live out your faith – Put your values into action through practical service that reflects love, dignity, and respect for all
• Learn new skills – Build your confidence and develop invaluable sector experience and unique skills.
• Serve with purpose – Use your time and talents to support a faith based charity rooted in action, compassion and love for others.
• Enhance your CV – Gain practical experience which can support future career goals.
• Flexibility - Work from anywhere and choose your own (part time) hours to fit around your schedule
• Build global connections – Join a passionate and supportive team with contacts based around the world and connect with others who are united with the intent to make a positive difference.

This role is a fantastic opportunity for a fundraiser to step into a hands-on strategic role, offering the chance to influence strategy, drive income growth and in turn support vital under-served communities across the world.

If this resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you!

Please submit your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest in this role without delay.

Role Purpose

The Volunteer PR Officer will help raise awareness of the organisation’s mission, activities, and achievements by creating and sharing compelling stories. They will nurture relationships with the media, support communication campaigns, and play a key role in strengthening the organisation’s public profile.

Key Responsibilities

Media Relations

• Draft and distribute press releases, articles, and media briefings

• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, bloggers, and local media outlets

• Respond promptly and professionally to media enquiries

Content Creation

• Produce engaging content for newsletters, blogs, and social media

• Support the creation and design of promotional materials (posters, flyers, campaign assets)

• Capture and share stories that highlight the impact of the organisation’s work

Campaigns & Events

• Assist with promoting fundraising and awareness campaigns

• Publicise events through traditional and digital communication channels

• Represent the organisation at community events and networking opportunities

Brand & Reputation

• Ensure all communications reflect the organisation’s tone, values, and branding

• Monitor media coverage and report key highlights to the team

• Provide support with crisis communication when required

Skills & Qualities

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Confident networker with the ability to build positive relationships

• Creative, energetic, and full of ideas for campaigns and content

• Familiarity with social media platforms and digital communication tools

• Organised, reliable, and able to work independently

Commitment

• Flexible hours: approximately 3–6 hours per week, depending on campaigns and events

• Willingness to attend occasional meetings and community events

Benefits of Volunteering

• Gain hands-on experience in PR and communications

• Develop professional skills and expand your network

• Make a meaningful contribution to a cause that matters

• Join a passionate and supportive team of volunteers

RSPCA North West London and South Hertfordshire Branch

Our RSPCA charity shop in Ruislip is looking for friendly volunteers to join the team.

About Our Shop

RSPCA, 66 High Street, Ruislip, HA4 7AA

The shop is part of the RSPCA North West London & South Hertfordshire Branch. It plays an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community, as well as raising much needed funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824, we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It’s always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

About the Role

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team of other volunteers helping to make the shop a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare.

Our volunteers assist us in many ways, such as accepting and sorting items donated by the public, preparing items ready for sale, processing sales through the till, assisting customers with queries, and helping to merchandise the shop floor.

Who are we looking for?

We’re currently looking for people aged 18 or over who are friendly, team players, are comfortable communicating with colleagues, customers and donors, and who can make a regular commitment of at least one 3-hour per shift per week for a minimum of six months. Retail experience is not essential.

In return, we can offer the chance to develop or learn new skills, a way to meet new people in your local area, and the satisfaction of making a huge difference to the lives of animals in your local community!

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!

We hope you are interested in volunteering for the RSPCA North West London and South Hertfordshire Branch.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

At RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, our charity shops are looking for friendly, local volunteers to join our team and help make our shops in Chesham and Burnham a huge success. Make new friends, have fun, and help us help more animals!

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager and 1-2 other volunteers to help make it a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare. 

Why Volunteer With Us?

As a volunteer charity shop assistant, you will:

• Support a worthwhile cause and help improve animal welfare.

• Be part of a friendly and dedicated team.

• Enjoy a fun and fulfilling role at the heart of the local community.

• Training and development opportunities, including induction and ongoing support.

• Learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more.

• Access to the RSPCA Learning Hub with a wide range of training materials.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Helping customers in the shop find what they need.

• Accepting donations of items and money from the public.

• Processing sales through the till and card machine, including Gift Aid. (Training is provided but if you are not comfortable using the till, please get in touch because we have plenty of other tasks that do not involve the till).

• Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell.

• Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging items.

• Merchandising stock on the shop floor.

• Creating attractive shop window displays.

What We’re Looking For:

• Friendly, local volunteers who are confident talking to people.

• Retail experience would be ideal but is not necessary as full training will be given.

• We are ideally aiming for someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment predominately 8 hours or more per week.

• Good communication and numeracy skills.

• You will need to be aged 16 or over.

What’s in It for You?

• Meet new people and make new friends.

• Learn new skills to enhance your CV.

• A comprehensive induction and training programme relevant to your role.

• Volunteer in a fun environment at the heart of your local community.

• Know that your time and effort is making a real difference to the welfare of animals.

• We’re happy to reimburse reasonable travel expenses incurred while volunteering.

Practical Considerations:

• Online induction - you’ll need to complete an online induction but if you are not able to use IT we do have a paper-based induction as an alternative. 

Disclaimer:

Our voluntary roles are subject to:

• An informal interview and trial period.

• Submission of two referees’ contact details.

• Completion of relevant training and assessments for the role.

Join MINDSET Charity – Be Part of a Brotherhood of Change

Who We Are

MINDSET Charity is a new, volunteer-run organisation dedicated to transforming men’s lives across England. We exist to support men on their personal journeys of mental wellbeing and self-improvement. Through accessible workshops, tailored programmes, and creative activities — from role play and storytelling to arts, crafts, and woodwork — we provide spaces where men can open up, connect, and grow without fear of judgment.

We are building a movement of resilience, dignity, and brotherhood. And we need visionary Trustees to help guide us.

The Role of Trustee

As a Trustee, you will:

• Shape the strategic direction of MINDSET Charity.

• Safeguard our values of brotherhood, empowerment, integrity, and growth.

• Ensure our programmes remain impactful, inclusive, and sustainable.

• Champion our mission to foster resilience and community across England.

This is a volunteer role, but the impact is priceless: you will be part of a founding team creating a legacy of hope and transformation.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who share our passion for men’s mental wellbeing. You don’t need prior Trustee experience — what matters most is your commitment, integrity, and belief in our mission.

Skills in governance, finance, fundraising, communications, or programme delivery are especially valuable, but above all we seek individuals who want to build something meaningful together.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a pioneering charity at its foundation stage.

• Help create safe, creative spaces for men to express themselves and grow.

• Contribute to a national movement of resilience and brotherhood.

• Work alongside passionate volunteers united by purpose and vision.

How to Apply

If you are ready to stand with us and help shape MINDSET Charity’s future, we’d love to hear from you.

This is more than a Trustee role. It’s a chance to help men across England rediscover strength, dignity, and hope. Join us, and let’s build MINDSET together.

About Bliss

With an impact in all corners of the UK, Bliss is the leading national neonatal charity, championing and developing the services for the 90,000 sick and premature babies born each year, supporting both them and their families. At Bliss, we are committed to improving care, giving voice to babies, and supporting parents to be partners in care. 

This is a really exciting time to join our board. We’ve just launched our new four-year strategy, which puts equity at the heart of everything we do. With NHS reforms underway, a new 10-Year Plan on the horizon, and growing attention on maternity and neonatal care, there’s a real opportunity to raise Bliss’s profile and make a lasting difference for premature and sick babies across the UK.

Chair opportunity

Our new Chair will be an experienced Trustee or Board member with proven ability to manage meetings effectively and foster productive, inclusive discussions. They will bring energy and drive, ensuring robust governance and alignment between strategy and operations. They will enjoy leading inclusive and thoughtful discussions, and share our passion for giving every baby the best possible start in life.

You can find more information about Bliss and the Chair role in our recruitment pack.

Don’t think you quite meet all of the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out – we’d still love to hear from you and learn more about you and your interest in joining Bliss!

Ready to apply?

Eastside People is supporting Bliss in the recruitment of these roles. Please by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• Why is Bliss’ work important to you and how can you contribute to the charity as our Chair?
• How do you ensure board meetings are focused, inclusive, and lead to clear decisions?
• How would you go about ensuring that our many stakeholders are heard and represented at Board level?

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

Bliss’ Chair, CEO and Trustees will be hosting a 30-minute drop-in session on Mon 8th December at 12pm via Teams. This is an opportunity to learn more about Bliss and what’s involved in joining our Board. You can register to attend here.

The closing date for applications is Mon 5th Jan. 

Longlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place mid-January, with shortlisted candidates invited to panel interviews with Bliss during the week commencing 2 February.

Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to take part in open sessions with staff and Board members, with final interviews scheduled for the week commencing 23 February.

Bliss is an equal opportunities organisation. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and lived experiences. We strive to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and are committed to equity and inclusion at every level of our governance.

We look forward to hearing from you!