Community volunteer roles in milton keynes, bedford

Branch Trustee - HR and Employee Relations

RSPCA Milton Keynes & North Bucks Branch

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

There are currently 4 trustees, and we'd like to expand this to 7 trustee's. We meet monthly and we would expect you to be active every week within your role as a trustee. You would be responsible for a recruiting and looking after your team of volunteers and offer strategic direction in your specific area.

As a HR & Employee Relations expert you would be supporting the branch by helping them maintain and develop staff throughout the organisation. You would play a key role in advising Trustees on the long-term and strategic direction of human resources and contributing towards policy setting.

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

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

• Advise Trustees on the long-term vision and strategic direction for investment in human resources.

• Support the Branch grow, maintain, and develop staff throughout the organisation.

• Contribute to HR policy setting, strategic direction, goal and target setting, and evaluate performance  against targets, budgets, plans and charitable objectives.

• Ensure that HR activities and interventions are linked to the RSPCA Isle of Wight Branches charitable objectives and complement the company culture.

• Advise on and help improve management of HR.

• Ensure the Board of Trustees properly remunerates staff, reviewing and rewarding performance and development opportunities.

• To work with the Branch Manager to review current HR management arrangements and provide guidance on HR strategy and short and long-term direction.

• Receive progress reports on HR and any recurring staffing issues.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

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

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

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

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

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

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

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

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

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

What is involved 

This is considered a full-time volunteer role. The brood will live with you from approximately 14-18 months of age until retirement.

• With guidance support and advice from our breeding team maintain the broods health and welfare, including maintaining a good weight and fitness level along with basic training and general obedience. 

• Be available for and attend training sessions within the working week that will involve:

• home visits 

• virtual online training

• one-to-ones 

• Be available to take the brood for essential veterinary visits as required. 

• The brood will have approximately two seasons per year and will stay at home during her season. Advice on management or any veterinary visits required during the season, will be given by our breeding team. 

• The brood will have one litter per year from the age of two, up to a maximum of four litters. Each litter will be born within the home and the puppies will remain with the brood until they are approximately eight weeks old and ready to go to their puppy parents (plenty of opportunities for puppy cuddles). Full support, guidance and training will be provided by our breeding team throughout the broods’ mating season, pregnancy, whelping and litter. Equipment for the litter is provided. 

• Whilst the brood has a litter – we ask that pet dogs have restricted exercise (full information and guidance is given by the breeding team). This measure is to minimise the risk of infection to the litter. 

• The dog breeding volunteer will have updates throughout each litters training.

What we require from you 

• The primary dog breeding volunteer must be 18 years or over 

• Have a dog friendly secure garden

• Be at home for most of the day and ideally live within one hour of LE12 9SR 

• Though desirable, prior dog ownership is not required 

• If you are a dog owner, you cannot have an entire male dog. Maximum of three pet dogs which will be assessed on a case-by-case basis considering the size of pet dogs, along with available space within in the property. Any pet dogs will be assessed as part of the home assessment.

• Time and stamina to provide the brood with a minimum of one hour's exercise per day (this can be completed in one or multiple walks). 

• Time to provide training sessions to maintain basic obedience. 

• Access to own transport to travel the brood on essential journeys such as veterinary appointments and pre-mating tests as required. 

• Have time and stamina to devote to the brood and her litter. The brood cannot be routinely left for more than four hours in a day. 

• Have space within the home for the brood and her litter. 

Support and Training 

• Induction process which includes submitting of application, telephone interview, home visit, training and handling sessions. 

• Each volunteer is allocated a member of the Canine Partners breeding team as their first point of contact. 

• Receive regular training, resources and other important information via your trainer; this may be in the format of physical copies, digital or in person. 

• All equipment for the litter is provided. 

• Our breeding team will offer continued support throughout the pregnancy and litter. 

• Payment of expenditure such as mileage to and from a pre-mating test 

• Invitation to join Official Canine Partners Community Facebook Group 

About the National Tremor Foundation: 

The National Tremor Foundation (NTF) is a leading charity dedicated to providing support and advocacy for individuals living with neurological tremor-related conditions, including Essential Tremor (ET) and other movement disorders. Our mission is to improve the lives of those affected by tremor through research, education, and the provision of vital services.

Position Overview: 

The National Tremor Foundation is seeking a passionate and dedicated individual to join our Board of Trustees

Trustees provide strategic leadership and governance, ensuring that the Foundation fulfils its mission and objectives while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of people living with all kinds of neurological tremors.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Strategic Leadership: Work closely with the Chairperson and other trustees to provide strategic direction and oversee the implementation of the Foundation’s mission, vision, and values. 

• Governance and Oversight: Ensure that the Foundation complies with all legal and regulatory requirements and uphold the highest standards of governance. This includes financial oversight and reviewing organisational performance. 

• Fundraising and Advocacy: Support fundraising efforts by leveraging personal networks, helping raise the Foundation’s profile, and engaging with key stakeholders. Advocate for the needs of people living with all kinds of neurological tremor. 

• Policy and Program Development: Contribute to the development and review of policies and programs that meet the needs of those living with neurological tremors and their families and care giver. 

• Risk Management: Ensure that the Foundation is effectively managing risks and developing strategies to mitigate them. 

• Collaboration and Support: Engage with staff, volunteers, and the community to support the delivery of services and activities. 

Skills and Experience: 

• Experience in Governance: Previous experience in a trustee or non-profit governance role is highly desirable, although not essential. 

• Commitment to the Mission: A passion for improving the lives of individuals living with neurological tremors and a commitment to the mission of the National Tremor Foundation. 

• Skills in Leadership: Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills. The ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders. 

• Financial Acumen: Experience with financial oversight and the ability to understand budgets and financial statements. 

• Fundraising or Advocacy Experience: Experience in fundraising, marketing, or advocacy would be beneficial but is not essential. 

• Personal Qualities: A collaborative and solution-oriented approach, with a strong commitment to inclusion, diversity, and empathy for those affected by tremor conditions. 

• Medical Knowledge: Having a medical background would be advantageous for this role, especially someone that is aware of the current care pathways and treatment options for neurological tremors.

Time Commitment: 

Trustees are expected to attend at least four Board meetings per year (approximately 2 hours each), plus additional time for fundraising activities and events. Trustees will also be required to attend our annual conference and other ad-hoc meetings as necessary. Trustees are also expected to take on a portfolio lead and provide support to the General Manager to deliver on this. 

Term: 

Trustees are appointed for a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term. 

The Network of Wellbeing (NOW) is looking for two new Trustees to guide and support the NOW team (above). We’re particularly keen to find someone to act as our Company Secretary and another to advise and guide the management of our staff and volunteers. Do you think you could help? If so, we’d love to hear from you. The roles are unpaid but immensely rewarding. 

The Network of Wellbeing connects people, supports projects and inspires action for the wellbeing of people and the planet. We would love to bring on board two new Trustees who care passionately about our vision of people and the planet thriving together.

Trustees play an essential role in any charity and the Network of Wellbeing is no exception. Trustees are the supreme governing body in a charity. They determine its aims, its strategy and oversee all its operations. They are responsible in law for ensuring that it delivers its charitable objects.

Trustees also bring vital skills and experience to the charity’s management. We have reviewed the expertise and roles played by our existing Trustees – and found that they have strengths in business development, charity governance and environmental sustainability, to name but a few. They use their knowledge – and their wisdom – to guide the staff and inform key strategic decisions – and our existing Trustees gain a deep sense of joy and fulfilment from the role they play.

We are now looking for two new Trustees to complement and strengthen our existing Board. We are especially keen to find:

• someone to be our Company Secretary: This person will be responsible for:
  • advising Trustees and the Director on corporate governance and financial management;
  • overseeing the preparation of agendas and the taking of accurate minutes;
  • keeping up to date with regulatory or statutory changes and policies that might affect us;
  • liaising with our auditors, Companies House and the Charities Commission.
• someone to advise on and guide the management of our team of staff and volunteers. This would include:
  • advising Trustees and the Director on all matters relating to the management of staff and volunteers;
  • ensuring we have an up to date suite of policies and procedures;
  • guiding the management of the staff, including on pay, to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Trustees have the opportunity to use their skills and experience to help others and to further a cause they are passionate about – something wellbeing experts argue is key to living a meaningful life.

The commitment is four two-hour meetings per year – three of which meetings which are held online. We also like our Trustees to come and see us annually (in Devon) in person at least once.

We are committed to diversity, fairness and inclusion – and to building wellbeing together for everyone. We’re therefore keen to diversify our existing Trustee group to ensure it more broadly reflects the diversity of people in the UK. With that in mind, we’d welcome applications from people from a range of different backgrounds and experiences.

Could you be a Trustee of the Network of Wellbeing? If you are interested, please see here for the role profile and details on how to apply.

All applications will be considered by a panel of Trustees with advice from the Director.

Brief

Helping to educate over 4,000 students a year is a rewarding task, and the Education team brings the past centuries back to life for children.

This front of house role is for you if you are approachable, know a thing or two about our local history and enjoying working with children and young people. No past teaching experience required!

Purpose of Role

Under the direction of the Education and Outreach Officer there are several tasks that are carried out:

· To deliver high quality educational visits to schools of different age groups and abilities by leading site tours and education sessions that are part of the school visit

· To be an ambassador of Milton Keynes Museum by informing our visitors about the Museum and the collection

Key elements

After relevant training has been provided:

· Help to prepare for and deliver guided tours and educational sessions as part of a school’s fixed learning visit, using Museum exhibits, interactive activities and storytelling

· Able to adapt your delivery to children of different abilities and age groups: keeping time and maintaining student engagement

· Facilitating and supervising family activities and workshops

· Support of other educational activities / group bookings

· Creating educational resources and notify the Education and Outreach Officer of any materials and resources that are worn or out of order

· Maintain Health and Safety standards and follow the procedure for reporting incidents and hazards

Your profile

What we are looking for:

· Interest in the museum, its historic collections and its ongoing story

· Strong communication skills and confidence in conversing to the public

· An understanding of how children learn and an ability to adapt your communication style to suit different age ranges and learning needs

· Ability to work as part of a dedicated team and individually

· Common sense and initiative

· No prior teaching experience, but an ability to enthuse and facilitate learning

Branch Trustee - Marketing and Social Media

RSPCA Milton Keynes & North Bucks Branch

We need volunteers who have expertise in Marketing and Social Media to help us maximise the revenue generated in our charity shops. You will gain new skills and experience as a Branch Trustee whilst enabling us to help more animals.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a background in marketing and social media, who could devote their time to volunteer as a trustee for our RSPCA Milton Keynes & North Bucks and support us in boosting our campaigns online. You will be joining a team of 4 trustee's, expanding to 7.

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

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Marketing and social media

•     Take the lead in assisting the Branch to generate and develop social media strategies to maximise the promotion of animal welfare, rehoming campaigns, fundraising opportunities, and engagement with local supporters.  
• Support the Branch Manager in using social media effectively and working within the social media strategy.
• Support the Branch in ensuring any social media or marketing content is in line with RSPCA brand guidelines.
• Responsible for feeding back key insights and performance markers to the rest of the committee at board meetings.
• Support the Branch in promoting animal welfare campaigns and events through the use of digital media.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

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

Alongside marketing and social media experience, an interest in photography, graphic design, and developing original content to help promote the Branch animals for rehoming and Branch events would be welcomed but is not essential for the role.

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

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – Marketing and Social Media

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Chair of Board of Trustees Recruitment

Founded in 1975, Rights of Women is the only charity dedicated to providing frontline legal advice to women experiencing all forms of violence against women and girls in England and Wales. We campaign for access to justice and safety for all women.

We are seeking a new Chair in our 50th anniversary year to lead our Board to replace Dr Annie Hedge, our long standing, inspirational, retiring Chair. Our new Chair will help us to build on our success and ensure that we continue to change women’s lives for the better.

We welcome applications from women* from diverse backgrounds whose skills and experience will complement our existing high performing Board, enabling us to stay at the forefront of women’s rights and legal policy debates.

We recognise the critical role that intersectional and structural discrimination play in society and welcome applicants with a strong commitment to addressing these issues throughout our work. We are keen to receive applications from Black and minoritised communities including refugee and migrant women, disabled women and women who have personal experience of the issues that are core to our work including domestic violence and abuse, insecure immigration status and workplace sexual harassment.

Rights of Women is a national charity however given the specific demands of the Chair role and our office location in London it is important for the Chair to be able to travel to London regularly.

We are keen to recruit a Chair committed to our vision and values who has:

· Experience in governance, leadership, and strategic decision-making, ideally within a charity or public sector setting.

· Strong financial and risk management acumen.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively

· Experience in supporting organisational growth and development.

Commitment:  Average 2 days a month

Full details can be found in our application pack.

To apply, please submit a CV, a covering letter of no more than 2 pages and a short Essential Information Form (including details of referees).

We invite you to also complete an anonymous Equalities Monitoring Form.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a first stage online interview from the week commencing Tuesday 22nd April 2025 onwards.

Candidates selected for second round will be invited to our offices to meet board and staff members in London for a second stage interview from mid-May.

Key dates:

Closing date: Friday 4th April 2025 5pm

Interview dates: From week commencing Tuesday 22nd April

First Board meeting: Wednesday 18th June 2025

*Occupational Requirement (Equality Act 2010, Schedule 16, Part I) applies

Aspens are looking for trustees to join us on the next exciting part of our journey. We'd love to hear from you if you have accountancy, social care, business development or fundraising experience.

What will you be doing?

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism? Do you have the skills, experience, and dedication to help guide a forward-thinking charity? If so, we’d love to hear from you!

About Aspens CharitiesAt Aspens we provide high quality care and support to people on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities; and their families; meeting their needs and aspirations and empowering them to learn and grow through an integrated network of services across the South-East.

Why Become a Trustee?As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in overseeing the governance and strategic direction of Aspens Charities. You will work alongside a committed Board to ensure our services remain impactful, sustainable, and aligned with our core values.

Your Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership, ensuring Aspens meets its charitable objectives.
• Oversee financial management, risk assessment, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
• Support and challenge the Executive Team to drive excellence in service delivery.
• Act as an ambassador for Aspens, promoting our work and values.
• Attend Board meetings and contribute to key strategic decisions.

What We’re Looking For:We welcome applications from individuals with diverse professional backgrounds. Key attributes include:

• A strong commitment to the aims and values of Aspens Charities.
• Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
• Willingness to dedicate time to Board meetings and governance activities.
• Integrity, good judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively.

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• Accountancy
• Health & Social Care sector knowledge
• Fundraising and business development

Time Commitment & LocationThis is a voluntary, unpaid role with reasonable expenses covered. The Board meets approximately three times a year, with 3 committee meetings and occasional additional meetings or events. Meetings are held in person and virtually.

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to the goals and aims of the charity. 
• Dedication to the role and a willingness to devote the required time. 
• The ability to make good independent judgements. 
• Being able to think creatively. 
• Understanding the importance of carrying out required legal duties. 
• Proven strategic abilities that can be used to create effective plans. 
• Strength of character coupled with the ability to voice concerns and opinions.
• Proven experience working as a member of successful teams. 
• Integrity and objectivity which can be applied to all aspects of the role.

Experience of either accountancy or fundraising / income generation. 

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, your leadership will directly shape the future of Aspens Charities and the lives of the people we support. You will help:

• Improve Quality of Care – Ensuring individuals with learning disabilities and autism receive the best possible support.
• Drive Strategic Growth – Expanding and developing services to reach more people in need.
• Ensure Financial Sustainability – Overseeing resources to secure long-term impact.
• Strengthen Governance – Upholding transparency, compliance, and ethical leadership.

Your expertise will make a lasting difference, creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.

The purpose of the Institute of Osteopathy Appointments Committee is to ensure high standards of competence and performance on the main governing body, the Council of the Institute of Osteopathy (iO), with a focus on recruitment.

We are seeking a new professional member to join our committee to aid this important work.

You should have broad experience and a practical attitude with a proven track record, and ideally have experience in the following areas:

· Human Resources

· Executive development and performance management

· Knowledge of employment law

· Board/committee experience

The Committee meets quarterly online/in person to advise on such matters as promotional strategy, review candidate profiles against council member role specification, appraise the performance of the non-executive members of council and ensure that governance-related processes around appointments and term renewals are fit for purpose and working effectively.

Please see the attached role specification for full details of the responsibilities.

If you are interested in this opportunity to shape the development of UK Osteopathy, please submit your CV along with a covering letter detailing how you meet the role specification by close of business on Monday 26 May. Interviews will take place in mid-June.

About the iO

The iO, as the lead body in the profession, has a clear and mandated mission to improve patient care by supporting and developing the education and practice of osteopathy, and universal access to osteopathic care. 

Our mission is to support, unite, develop and promote the profession for the improvement of public health and patient care. We are committed to realising our vision to see osteopathy become a growing and thriving profession, recognised and accessible to all.

Volunteer Van Driver – Help Us Make a Difference!

Location:RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch – Community-based
Role Type: Volunteer – Van Driver
Manager: Operations Manager

Do You Enjoy Driving?

Would you like to help save time for our animal welfare team by transporting animals, stock, and essential supplies?

At RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, our volunteer drivers play a crucial role by:

• Transporting animals to and from vets, foster homes, and boarding establishments.
• Moving stock and donations between our two shops (Chesham and Burnham) and storage facilities.
• Delivering pet food, litter, and bedding to cat fosterers and small animal carers.

If you have a valid driving licence, some spare time during weekdays, evenings, or weekends, and live in or around South Bucks, you could support our vital work.

Why Volunteer With Us?

As an RSPCA volunteer driver, you will:

•  Meet a variety of RSPCA staff, volunteers, and animal care professionals.
• Know that your time and effort is directly helping animals in need.
•  Enjoy a rewarding role that makes a tangible difference to animal welfare in your local area.

What We’re Looking For:

•  Aged 18 or over with a valid driving licence.
• Ability to lift animals safely in and out of the vehicle.
• Comfortable lifting and handling boxes, bags, and hay bales.
•  Friendly, reliable, and responsible with good communication skills.
• A careful and considerate driver.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Animal Transport: Safely transporting animals to and from vets, foster homes, and boarding establishments.
• Stock and Donation Transport: Moving donations and stock between shops and storage.
• Pet Food and Supply Delivery: Ensuring fosterers and small animal carers have the supplies they need.
•  Ad Hoc Requests: Supporting ad hoc transport needs from the management team.
• Vehicle Care: Cleaning animal transport equipment and the van interior after each use.
• Administrative Tasks: Completing basic paperwork, such as mileage returns.

What’s in It for You?

•  Meet new people and make new friends.
• A comprehensive induction and training programme relevant to your role.
• The chance to make a meaningful difference to the welfare of animals.
• Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses incurred while volunteering.
• Practical Considerations:
• Driving Assessments: Volunteers will be required to undertake online and practical driving assessments.

Vehicle Use:

 All volunteers must use the van provided for RSPCA purposes only and must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while driving.
 

Physical Requirements: 

This role involves lifting animals and handling stock of varying sizes and weights.
 

Training and Support:

You will receive a volunteer drivers’ handbook and full support from our team.
 

Online Access:

 Online training may not be compatible with mobile devices, so access to a laptop or PC is required.
 

Disclaimer:

Our voluntary roles are subject to:

•  An informal interview and trial period.
• Submission of two referees’ contact details.
• Completion of a simple online Health & Safety assessment.
• Driving assessments and ongoing training.

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA, we’d love to hear from you!
We would love to hear from you!

Branch Trustee - Retail and Income Generation

RSPCA Milton Keynes & North Bucks Branch

We need volunteers who have expertise in retail operations and income generation to help us maximise the revenue generated in our charity shops. You will gain new skills and experience as a Branch Trustee whilst enabling us to help more animals.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a background in retail operations and income generation, who could devote their time to volunteer as a trustee for our Branch and support us in maximising the revenue generated from our charity shops. You will be joining a team of 4 trustee's, expanding to 7.

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

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Retail and Income Generation

• Assist the Branch Manager in maximising the profitability of the Branch’s three charity shops.
• Work with the Branch Manager to explore any potential for expanding the retail operation by researching the potential for further charity shops.
• Support the Branch Manager in establishing the Branch’s e-commerce operation via online sales  platforms such as eBay.  
• Work with other trustees, the Branch health and safety provider and the Branch Manager to ensure the charity shops meet health and safety standards.
• Explore other ways to generate income for the Branch and work closely with the Branch Manager to put these ideas into action.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

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

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

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

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – Retail and Income Generation

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything  you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Canine Partners are looking for volunteers who can provide loving homes for our young dogs, aged 14 months upwards, whilst helping to train them to be canine partners.

By volunteering you will:

• Be a valued member of our Charity
• Know that you are integrally involved in the care and training of a dog that will change the life of a person waiting for their Canine Partner
• Benefit from the companionship and enjoyment of having a dog in your life without lifelong commitment or costs associated with dog ownership
  • Meet like-minded people
  • Can develop your knowledge of puppy development and training.

 ‘With out the continued hard work and support from our volunteers, we would not be able to provide our clients with our life changing dogs.’

What is involved

• Commitment to providing a loving home, care, and training for a dog for the duration of their time in training.
• We consider this a full-time role as you, or another approved adult member of the household, will be required to care for the dog for much of the day and overnight.
• Our trainers need access to the dogs during weekdays for training purposes. We ask that you commute to and from our training centre when required to drop off/collect the dog. Drop off and collection times are between 7.30 - 9.30am and 4-6pm. We try to be as flexible as possible with the times that are best for you.
• Availability to attend pre-arranged training sessions at your home, in your local area, and at our training centre.
• Attend an Introduction session before we coordinate a dog into your care
• With our guidance, and using positive training methods, to continue the training of the dog in various areas. For example:
  • Home behaviour
  • Social behaviour
  • Behaviour around other animals
  • Walking on a lead
  • Off lead exercise
• Maintaining the dog’s health and welfare and, via support and training, to recognise behaviour/health concerns and report them immediately to the dog’s trainer.

What we require from you

• You live within a 30-minute drive of our training centre (post code LE12 9SR)
• That you, as the dog's main carer, are over 18 years of age
• You have a dog friendly secure garden
• Though desirable, prior dog ownership is not required.
• All members of the household are keen to foster.
• There is no more than one pet dog living in your home. The pet dog must be over 12 months of age and would need to undergo our pet dog suitability assessment
• Have the time and ability to commit to the training and care of a young dog. This is a physical role
• Have access to a suitable vehicle to transport the dog
• That you or other approved adult member of the household are at home most of the day, and overnight, to care for the dog
• Attend two training sessions each year
• Understand that the dog in your care remains under the ownership of Canine Partners

Support and Training

• Induction process which includes telephone assessment and home visit
• On-going Instruction and support from our dog trainers. This will be in person, via video link, phone calls, handouts etc.
• Holiday cover and appointments cover can be arranged.
• Payment of expenditure such as mileage to and from a training session with a Canine Partner representative
• Access to our volunteer portal with many resources for your use.
• Invitation to join our Official Canine Partners Community Facebook Group

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 600 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated & new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

Our retail stores are the face of our charity on the high-street and in local communities. We have loads of amazing stock donated to us every week, and this all needs to be sorted, tagged and put on the shop-floor for sale!

Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till too, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.

You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.

Why we want you

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 700 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

What you will be doing

• Work on the till processing sales and returns
• Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
• Create stylish window displays
• Replenish stock on the shop floor
• Stock-take and other administrative tasks

The skills you need

• Friendly and helpful
• Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
• Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
• Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks

What's in it for you

• Have fun and meet new people
• Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
• Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
• Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
• Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer

Disclaimer

We look to recruit a diverse range of volunteers. If your skills don't fit the above, please do not let this put you off as we are able to be flexible with most of our roles. If you are unable to apply online through the link on this page, please visit your local store for a paper application form or contact the Barnardo's Volunteering Team on our website.

Location:

Unit 2, Anglia Way, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 4TB, United Kingdom

Minimum age: 14 

Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK

Join REMIX as our Volunteer Personal Development and Life Skills Programme Manager and Transform the Future of London's Youth!

Do you believe that every young person possesses a unique spark needing guidance to flourish in every aspect of life? At REMIX, we envision a future where London’s youth are empowered not only professionally but also personally—confident in their ability to navigate life’s challenges and seize opportunities for growth.

REMIX is a vibrant, brand-new youth charity dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals aged 16 to 26 years old. Our mission is built on four strong pillars—employability, healthy living, personal development, and essential life skills. To drive a holistic transformation, we are seeking a dedicated Volunteer Personal Development and Life Skills Programme Manager to lead initiatives that build self-awareness, resilience, and practical life skills among young people.

In this role, you will:

• Empower Through Personal Growth: Design and deliver engaging workshops, mentoring sessions, and interactive activities that foster self-discovery, emotional intelligence, and leadership.

• Equip with Essential Life Skills: Develop innovative programmes that address practical skills such as time management, effective communication, decision-making, goal-setting, and conflict resolution—tools that empower young people to thrive in every arena of life.

• Cultivate Resilience and Confidence: Create dynamic initiatives that inspire youth to overcome obstacles, embrace change, and build lasting confidence and mental resilience.

• Integrate Holistic Development: Collaborate with our interdisciplinary team to connect personal development with other core pillars, ensuring our programming nurtures well-rounded individuals ready for the future.

• Continuously Innovate and Evaluate: Utilize feedback and best practices to refine programme content, ensuring that the sessions are engaging, impactful, and responsive to the evolving needs of our community.

• Inspire and Mentor: Offer your expertise and energy to serve as a role model, guiding young people as they discover their inner strengths and chart their course towards a fulfilling life.

If you have a passion for personal development and believe in the power of learning life skills to transform futures, REMIX offers you a unique opportunity to spark change from within. Your innovative mindset and commitment to holistic growth will help shape resilient, well-prepared young Londoners ready to tackle tomorrow’s challenges.

Step forward. Lead the change. Transform lives at REMIX.

REMIX

INSPIRE. EMPOWER. TRANSFORM.