Community volunteer roles in temple, greater london

Shout is the UK’s only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. When people text 'Shout' to 85258, they are connected to a Shout Volunteer for a text conversation. Our volunteers provide a safe space for people to share what's causing them distress, while showing warmth and compassion.

Tasks and Responsibilities

If your application is successful, you’ll be enrolled in a training group. New groups start every two weeks.

Shout Volunteers receive 25 hours of free training in communication, listening, managing and assessing risk, and problem solving. The training is self-paced and done online. You’ll learn how to bring people in distress to a place of calm and practice skills that will be useful to you throughout life.

As we are investing in you throughout your time with us, our hope is that you will complete the training in a timely manner and look at this as a longer term commitment. The experience you gain over time is valuable and our goal is to have volunteers commit to 200 hours on the platform, which can take up to two years to complete, as we ask you to take one 2-4 hour shift per week. 

Our Volunteer Training Support team is here to support you, answer any questions and provide feedback during training and throughout your time with Shout. You’ll be joining an incredibly supportive volunteer community and have access to the resources you need to do your role.

As a volunteer, you’ll be supporting people in distress, so it’s important we see the skills required to do that while you are in training. While most trainees complete the training and go on to volunteer, not everyone will pass the training. If this happens, there are other ways you can still support us.

Selection Criteria

A Shout Volunteer is kind and compassionate, a good listener, and has the ability to remain calm when supporting people in crisis. You will also:

• Understand the difference between being friendly and being a friend

• Be aware of your own mental health and wellbeing

• Be open-minded

• Be supportive

• Be reliable

• Be discreet and able to respect confidentiality at all times

• Be accepting and non-judgemental

• Be passionate about contributing some of your time to a cause such as Shout

• Adopt a growth mindset, and be willing to accept feedback

Requirements

• You must live in the United Kingdom or New Zealand while volunteering. 
• You must be over 18 years of age.
• You will need a reliable internet connection and a private place to take your shift.
• All of your volunteering must be done using a laptop or desktop computer and Google Chrome.

It’s worth spending time thinking about the nature of the role, and whether it’s right for you. We support all texters, regardless of race, religion, sexual identity or issue. You will need to be comfortable addressing topics frequently discussed with texters (suicide, self-harm, depression, etc.) without compromising your own mental health. 

Before you apply, please consider whether either of the following applies to you:

• Have you recently experienced grief, loss or change issue/s? For example; someone close to you has been ill or has died, you’ve lost your job, your relationship has ended.

• Is your current mental health and wellbeing in a place such that the stress and pressure of listening to the challenges of others would bring additional burden to you personally?

Benefits to Volunteers

The role is rewarding and can save lives. Shout Volunteers tell us they gain a sense of pride, satisfaction and purpose from taking conversations. They also tell us that their own wellbeing increases, they learn valuable skills and gain experience they can use at work and in their personal lives.

Volunteering can also be a great addition to your CV. You do not need to have any past experience in mental health to be a Shout Volunteer - we’ll provide you with all the training and support you need to do the role.

Application Process

You will need to create your account and fill in the application using a laptop or desktop computer and in a Google Chrome browser. This is a standard requirement for all of our systems at Shout, from the application through to the platform.

You should leave up to an hour to complete the form. As Shout is a text based service and we do not conduct in person interviews for our volunteer candidates what you write in your application and the strength of your references are how we get to know you. 

We appreciate when candidates take the time to write thoughtful, considered answers. We recommend you review your application with an eye toward things like spelling, grammar and punctuation. While some of our texters will occasionally reach out using more informal text speak, our volunteers respond in full sentences and double check their messages for accuracy before hitting send. 

Your application will be reviewed once we have received responses from both of your references. We ask for a personal reference and a professional reference. The personal reference can be a friend or colleague but the other must be someone who knows you professionally or has supervised you in some way. 

This could be a manager or supervisor from where you work or a teacher or educator from where you study. We recommend you choose references who are able to speak to your ability to fulfil the selection criteria outlined above.

We do not accept references from family members. This includes your partner or their relatives, your children, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents or godparents. 

Please allow up to a month for us to review your application and return a decision. 

If your application is approved, you can book your place on training. Training groups usually start every two weeks and spaces are available to book a couple of months ahead. While you are in training and before you are allowed on the platform we will carry out a background check.

Location: Fully flexible / Remote – open to applicants anywhere in the UK

Time Commitment: Approx. 4–8 hours per month, including quarterly trustee meetings, occasional sub-committee meetings, and fulfilling trustee responsibilities. Time may vary slightly depending on organisational needs, but remains manageable alongside other personal and professional commitments.

About Us
Unseen Expeditions UK is a newly forming Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) supporting mission-led charities and expedition projects across the UK and internationally. Our flagship initiative, The Unseen Mile, is a 4.5-year journey covering 25,000 miles across 37 countries. Through this and future projects, we aim to inspire communities, raise awareness for important causes—including mental health—and share unique storytelling and learning experiences from the field.

We are currently recruiting our initial board of trustees to help launch and register the charity.

Role Overview
We are seeking a Media Trustee to join our board and lead the charity’s media strategy and content creation. This trustee will help share the charity’s projects, expeditions, and mission with a wide audience, while allowing content to be retained for personal portfolio use.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the charity’s media strategy

• Create or advise on multimedia content (photo, video, audio, digital)

• Support engagement with media outlets and online audiences

• Advise on storytelling, branding, and public-facing communications

• Assist with reporting and media-related updates to stakeholders

• Contribute to trustee meetings and governance

• Delegate tasks to editing volunteers within the Media Committee

• Help guide the charity through its registration and initial set-up

Person Specification & Requirements

• Experience or interest in media production, content creation, or storytelling

• Strong communication and creative skills

• Commitment to the mission and values of Unseen Expeditions and its partnered charities

• Ability to work collaboratively with a small, remote trustee team

• Comfortable working remotely and communicating online with a UK-wide board

• UK-based (required for legal trustee responsibilities)

• 4–8 hours per month commitment (more during start-up if possible)

• Basic tools for communication (email, phone, video calls)

What You’ll Gain

• Opportunity to shape and govern a new, high-profile charity from launch

• Hands-on experience in charity leadership and governance

• Contribution to awareness-raising and adventure-led impact projects

• Recognition for your role in mission-driven initiatives, including The Unseen Mile and future projects

• Flexible, fully remote role within a passionate, purpose-driven team

• Permission to retain media content created for personal portfolio or professional use

Our Challenge

Brain tumours do not discriminate and they do not respect boundaries. They can strike anyone, at any age. And they strike quickly.

At The Brain Tumour Charity, we aim to address the clear gap in emotional support available to those affected by a brain tumour diagnosis, by expanding our counselling service. We know the difference that talking therapy can make to the brain tumour community and our goal is to reach more people, ensuring everyone that wants it, gets the support that they need.

How can you help?
We are in a position to offer a number of unpaid student placements, to those training to be integrative or person centred counsellors, which will see you work via telephone/webcam only, with a wide range of clients; from those newly diagnosed, to those at end of life, carers and bereaved loved ones.

We’re looking for students who:

• Are in their 2nd year of studying for the Level 4 Counselling Diploma (or equivalent)
• Have been signed off as ’fit to practice’ by their tutor and have already accrued at least 30+ client hours.
• Are student members of the BACP (or equivalent) and work in line with their ethical framework.
• Are prepared to attend mandatory monthly group supervision provided by The Charity and committed to meeting all supervision requirements outlined by their ethical body.
•  Have their own public liability insurance (or are willing to obtain this).
• Will be committed to following our safeguarding processes and will only work within their limits of proficiency.
• Will observe confidentiality in line with their ethical framework and The Charity’s organisational policy.
• Have the capacity to work autonomously and IT abilities to be able to maintain appropriate and accurate records on our counselling database.
• As this is a home-based role, you will need access to a telephone and computer that you are happy to use for this service.

The Brain Tumour Charity is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals belonging to minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented communities.

What can you gain from volunteering with us?

• You’ll have the opportunity to work towards the clinical hours required for your course.
• You will receive training, ongoing support and management supervision from the Counselling Service Manager.
• You will receive 1.5 hours per month of group supervision with a clinical supervisor.
• We will complete any necessary paperwork and reports needed for your placement records.
• All diary management will be carried out by our Counselling Team, reducing the amount of admin required by you.

Time commitment
We ask each student to commit to a placement of at least 6 months and to see a minimum of 3 clients per week (at a time suitable for you, but it MUST be at the same time each week). The service operates between the hours of 9am—5pm, Monday-Friday and you will be required to see clients within these hours.

Practical considerations

Shortlisted applicants will be asked to attend an interview with our Counselling Service Manager and Counselling Service Officer. 

Successful candidates will then receive a full induction to The Brain Tumour Charity and any specific training for the role, as well as ongoing support from one of the team. 

We will carry out reference and DBS checks for all successful applicants and you will be required to complete some internal data protection and disclosure documentation before commencing the placement

Need support with the application process?

We are committed to being inclusive and recognise that there may be a number of ways we could support you through the application process. If there’s any adjustments we can make to help you fully engage in the process, don’t hesitate to let us know by getting in touch with the Volunteering Team

Location: Fully flexible / Remote – open to applicants anywhere in the UK
Time Commitment: Approx. 2–6 hours per month, including quarterly trustee meetings, occasional sub-committee meetings, and fulfilling trustee responsibilities. Time may vary slightly depending on organisational needs, but remains manageable alongside other personal and professional commitments.

About Us
Unseen Expeditions UK is a newly forming Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) supporting mission-led charities and expedition projects across the UK and internationally. Our flagship initiative, The Unseen Mile, is a 4.5-year journey covering 25,000 miles across 37 countries. Through this and future projects, we aim to inspire communities, raise awareness for important causes—including mental health—and share unique storytelling and learning experiences from the field.

We are currently recruiting our initial board of trustees to help launch and register the charity.

Role Overview
We are seeking a Chair / Trustee to lead our board, provide strategic direction, and ensure effective governance. The Chair will guide the charity through registration and early operations while supporting the delivery of its mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the trustee board and ensure effective governance

• Chair board meetings and oversee decision-making

• Support trustee recruitment, induction, and development

• Act as a primary contact for stakeholders and regulators

• Oversee compliance with charity law and CIO regulations

• Assist with reporting to the Charity Commission

• Help guide the charity through its registration and initial set-up

Person Specification & Requirements

• Strong leadership, organisational, and strategic skills

• Familiarity with charity governance and trustee responsibilities (training can be provided)

• Commitment to the mission and values of Unseen Expeditions and its partnered charities

• Ability to work collaboratively with a small, remote trustee team

• Comfortable working remotely and communicating online with a UK-wide board

• UK-based (required for legal trustee responsibilities)

• 2–6 hours per month commitment (more during start-up if possible)

• Basic tools for communication (email, phone, video calls)

What You’ll Gain

• Opportunity to shape and govern a new, high-profile charity from launch

• Hands-on experience in charity leadership and governance

• Contribution to awareness-raising and adventure-led impact projects

• Recognition for your role in mission-driven initiatives, including The Unseen Mile and future projects

• Flexible, fully remote role within a passionate, purpose-driven team

Work Type: Hybrid
Location: Remote & In-Person (London-based office)
Role Type: Voluntary (Unpaid, with expenses covered)
Status: Actively Interviewing

Time Commitment & Work Schedule:

• First Month:

  • 16 hours total (4 hours per week on Tuesdays)

  • Office-based every Tuesday from 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM to shadow the current Project Manager (Michelle)

• Ongoing (After Month 1):

  • 2–3 hours per week on Tuesdays (remote/office-based as needed)

  • Attendance at weekly Jumping Beans team meetings every Tuesday from 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM (online)

• Additional Requirements:

  • Required to be in the office at least two weeks before each school holiday period for planning and final confirmations

  • Must attend at least 2–3 Jumping Beans sessions per term

About the Role:

Are you an organised and proactive individual passionate about community-led programmes that support children and families? We are looking for a dedicated Volunteer Project Manager to oversee and lead our Jumping Beans Team—a vibrant, child-focused initiative offering enriching experiences for local families.

Key Responsibilities:

General Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Jumping Beans Team to ensure project success

• Coordinate and chair weekly Tuesday evening meetings

• Track team tasks, monitor progress, and ensure timely delivery

• Report regularly to the leadership team

• Collaborate across departments to align project goals and resource needs

On-Site Responsibilities During Jumping Beans Sessions:

1. Staff & Volunteer Coordination

• Brief staff and volunteers on the day’s plan and their roles

• Ensure child-to-staff ratios are maintained

• Manage volunteer and staff attendance

• Act as the main point of contact for staff and volunteer concerns

2. Activity Oversight

• Ensure activities run on schedule and engage children effectively

• Troubleshoot or adapt plans as needed

• Confirm all materials and equipment are prepared

3. Child Safety & Welfare

• Oversee child sign-in/sign-out

• Monitor for safeguarding issues and respond appropriately

• Manage minor incidents and maintain accurate records

• Ensure the venue is safe, clean, and child-friendly

4. Communication

• Welcome and update parents, address any concerns

• Serve as liaison between staff, children, parents, and visitors

• Escalate significant issues to senior leadership

5. Logistics & Administration

• Manage session supplies and resources

• Track attendance, consent forms, and incident logs

• Ensure awareness of allergies and special requirements

• Uphold all safeguarding, emergency, and first aid policies

6. Evaluation & Reporting

• Take note of successes and areas for improvement

• Gather informal feedback from children, parents, and staff

• Report session outcomes to leadership

Qualifications & Experience:

• Previous experience in project management or team leadership (paid or voluntary)

• Excellent organisational, communication, and time management skills

• Creative thinker with strong problem-solving abilities

• Experience working with or supporting children or families is a plus

Benefits & Impact:

• Help bring joy, structure, and support to children and families

• Gain valuable experience in project and team management

• Be part of a passionate, values-driven team

• Expand your network through connections with community leaders

• Personal and professional growth through hands-on leadership

Apply Now
Make a real impact in your community and develop leadership skills that last a lifetime.

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in your community?

Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as the Chair of Trustees for our charitable organisation. This is a unique opportunity to guide our mission, shape our strategy, and inspire positive change. 

About us

Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning invests in people and their potential. Established in 2004 and nicknamed the “54-acre classroom”, our work uses a unique combination of adventurous and environmental activities, a working farm and horticulture gardens to reconnect people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities with nature through outdoor learning.

Our mission is “to support people to overcome obstacles in life through nurturing them in nature, encouraging them in play and curiosity, challenging them in risk and adventure, and engaging them in outdoor learning.  Cultivating connections to the world around them, and inspiring positive lasting change.” 

The Centre is located in south west Essex and works with over 18,000 young people each year on a wide range of programmes that improve health and wellbeing and foster personal development, using our unique blend activities.  We do this by using the activities to generate a wide range of tailored programmes designed to encourage team building, problem solving and communication skills, as well as build confidence, enthuse and motivate, and raise aspirations.

Over the past ten years, the Centre has grown significantly its revenue, it’s profitability and its influence, such that it is now in a strong position and faces huge demand for its services.

The Role

As the Chair of Trustees, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring effective governance and strategic oversight. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and the Chief Executive, you will help steer the organisation toward its goals while upholding our values and ensuring accountability.  The role has become vacant due to the retirement of the current Chair.

Key Responsibilities

· Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees, fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.

· Chair board meetings effectively, ensuring productive discussions and sound decision-making.

· Work with the Chief Executive Officer to set and review strategic priorities and objectives.

· Act as an ambassador for the organisation, representing its interests to stakeholders and communities.

· Support the recruitment and development of a diverse and skilled Board of Trustees.

· Oversee compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.

· Ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable and aligned with its mission.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a dedicated and inspiring leader who shares our passion for creating a better future. The ideal candidate will bring:

· Experience in governance or leadership roles, ideally within non-profit, public, or corporate sectors.

· Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with trustees, staff, and external stakeholders.

· Strategic thinking and the ability to navigate complex challenges.

· A good understanding of charity governance and relevant legislation (or a willingness to develop this knowledge).

· A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of leadership.

Time Commitment and Term

The Chair of Trustees role is voluntary, though reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. The time commitment is approximately 10 hours/month, including board meetings, sub-committee involvement, and occasional events.

How to Apply

If this opportunity resonates with you, we would love to hear from you.  If you would be interested in exploring the possibility of becoming the new Chair of Trustees at Lambourne End, we would like to invite you to contact the Chief Executive Officer to arrange a visit to the Centre and an informal chat; please contact Rob at the Centre.   Additionally, you would be very welcome to have an informal discussion about the role with the outgoing Chair; please let us know if you would like us to arrange this.  To formally apply for this role, please send a CV and a covering letter detailing why you are interested in the role and how your experience aligns with our vision.   Applications should be sent by 31st August 2025.

Inclusive Recruitment

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities and are dedicated to equality of opportunity in our recruitment process.

Join us in this exciting journey of leadership and impact. Together, we can shape a brighter future for generations to come.

Volunteer Role: Admin, Social Media & Fundraising Support

Organisation: Whispaws Animal Sanctuary

Location: Flexible - Local (South East London / North Kent) or Remote

About Us

Whispaws Animal Sanctuary is a UK-based charity dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned dogs and cats in Serbia. We provide veterinary care, rehabilitation, and adoption opportunities, and run sterilisation campaigns to reduce the street dog population. Our work also includes a street feeding campaign, ensuring that abandoned animals living outdoors receive regular food and care.

We are a small but passionate team, committed to improving animal welfare through hands-on rescue work, community outreach, and fundraising.

The Role

We are looking for reliable, proactive volunteers to join our team and support us with general administration, social media, and fundraising. You may choose to help in one area or across several, depending on your skills, interests, and availability. The work can be done remotely, although if you are based near Sevenoaks, Blackheath, or Chislehurst, there are opportunities to join our in-person fundraising events.

Key Areas of Involvement

General Administration

• Use Google Drive to organise and manage charity documents (training provided if needed)

• Input and manage data accurately

• Filing expenses using Google Drive

• Help with Sponsorship Programme management for dogs in our care

Fundraising

• Approach local businesses for sponsorships, donations, and event prizes

• Join the team in planning and advertising in-person fundraising events

• Support online fundraising campaigns through social media

• Suggest and help develop creative fundraising ideas

Social Media

• Share adoption posts across multiple platforms

• Take charge of posting existing prepared content to our channels

• Manage and update dog adoption profiles on Facebook

Who We’re Looking For

• Dedicated to animal welfare and making a real difference

• Honest and clear about what tasks they can take on, and follow through reliably

• Organised and able to complete agreed tasks in a timely manner

• Comfortable using (or quick to learn) Google Drive and basic admin tools

• Self-motivated, with good communication skills

• A bonus if based locally and able to attend events in person

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to directly improve the lives of animals in need

• Experience in charity administration, fundraising, and social media

• Being part of a friendly, supportive, and passionate team

• Flexible working hours to fit around your schedule

Time Commitment

Flexible: Whether you can help with a single task or ongoing responsibilities, we just ask that you commit to what you can realistically offer each month and see it through to completion.

How to Apply

Please apply via CharityJob with a short introduction about yourself, your skills, and how much time you can commit each month. Let us know which areas you’re most interested in helping with.

South Bank Employers’ Group – working together for a better South Bank for all.

For nearly 35 years, South Bank Employers’ Group has been at the heart of making South Bank the place it is today - an internationally important destination, an economic powerhouse, and a real and authentic neighbourhood with diverse business, residential and student communities. We are a member-led, not for profit company, and our work is diverse and wide-ranging.

We are recruiting five new members to our Board of Directors.

About Us

In line with our vision of working together for a better South Bank for all, we deliver to our members, and have strategic agreements with Lambeth Council, South Bank Business Improvement District, and Jubilee Gardens Trust. We coordinate and direct a significant collective investment across the South Bank and Waterloo neighbourhood, working with our members and partners to ensure that this investment addresses our shared priorities. This includes the annual revenues raised through the pioneering and innovative London S106 agreement, whereby 1% of the Eye’s annual turnover is reinvested in services and initiatives that benefit the neighbourhood.

Following an extensive review of our governance and membership arrangements, we are now creating our new Board, which will work alongside our Members’ Council, which is also new. The Board is member-led, with six Directors that are appointed from SBEG’s full members, and we are now looking for five additional non-member Directors. They will join Tom Sleigh, SBEG’s Chair, the six member representative Directors, and Nic Durston - SBEG’s Chief Executive - on the Board.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for people who have the right skills and experience to ensure that the Board ensures that SBEG works towards its vision, achieves its corporate goals and objectives, and supports and enhances the work of the team. We are also keen to ensure that our Board is diverse and inclusive, reflecting the area’s identity, and those that work, visit, study and live here. Following a skills review of our current Directors, we are keen to hear from candidates with experience and skills in sustainability, marketing, human resources and legal.

You don’t need to be based in the South Bank area to be a Board member, but we would like to know about why you are interested in this opportunity. If you are interested, please click on "How to apply" to see the next steps. 

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday 22 September.

We are seeking a skilled and passionate Volunteer Trust & Grant Bid Writer to help secure funding that will enable us to continue and grow our life-transforming work in Christian mental health. Working with the Director of Development, the role will involve identifying funding opportunities, preparing compelling grant applications, and helping us build strong relationships with trusts and foundations aligned with our mission.

Mercy UK is a Christian mental health and wellbeing charity, committed to equipping people to live free and stay free through a range of trauma-informed, faith-based support services. From our flagship Freedom Journey programme to practical resources like Keys to Freedom, we support individuals navigating emotional and spiritual challenges and empower churches and Christian organisations to provide meaningful, transformational support.

Key Responsibilities

● Research suitable grant-making trusts and foundations, with a particular focus on those funding mental health, faith-based initiatives, and/or community wellbeing.

● Work closely with the Director of Development to maintain a pipeline of prospective funders.

● Draft high-quality, tailored funding applications that reflect the heart, outcomes, and impact of Mercy UK’s work.

● Collate and interpret project data, outcomes, and financial information to support applications.

● Support the development of template responses and maintain accurate records of submissions and outcomes.

● Assist in preparing follow-up reports or updates required by funders.

What We’re Looking For

● Strong written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive and inspiring content.

● Attention to detail and the ability to work independently.

● Experience of fundraising through trusts and foundations, or equivalent transferable experience in writing bids or proposals.

● An ability to articulate and represent Christian values and ethos respectfully and effectively in written applications.

● Passion for mental health and wellbeing, and alignment with Mercy UK’s mission and values. 

What You’ll Gain

● The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a growing, impactful charity.

● Experience in trust and grant fundraising, with support and guidance from our development team.

● A chance to use your skills to directly support the emotional, spiritual, and mental wellbeing of individuals across the UK and beyond.

● References and testimonials for future opportunities.

● Access to Mercy UK’s Employee Assistance Programme with Health Assured

This is an exciting opportunity to join a charity at the very start and to make a difference in shaping how we move forward.

Who are we looking for?

At present we are working towards being fully operational, over the next year Living Reasons will be looking to ensure that all of our operational activity, whether internally or with people who come in contact with the organisation, are having the best experience they can possibly have and that the work we are carrying out, the campaigns we are focusing on and where we are focusing our time and our money, is relevant and remains so moving forward.

That is where I lived experience board of volunteers comes in. In essence that lived experience board is the driver for all that we do as an organisation and will inform, guide and develop the organisation.

The board is broken in to separate lived experiences which hold focus groups, support groups and communicated with each other to talk about members lived experiences, support each other and feel part of a community, while also using the voice and power of that lived experience to bring about change. The board chooses what information is passed on to the organisation and what is not.

Additionally, to the community aspects of the role, you will also be sent specific materials to share your experiences or take part in research or in new policy discussions or campaign ideas as the organisation evolves.

Additionally, to the specific lived experience groups, the full board can communicate with each other and will have periodic full board meetings that will allow people to share their experiences from various viewpoints, so that cross overs and shared experiences can become strength but can also guide the overall operation of Living Reasons.

For this role, all you need is to have lived experience of autism, ADHD, dyslexia or dyspraxia, either from a personal viewpoint, or as a supporter/care giver/guardian/family member. There will be two separate groups (one for personal experience and people who are supporting someone – this allows for different conversations to happen).

This role will really drive change, not just in Living Reasons as an organisation, but in society as a whole.

What is the plan?

The person who is starting the charity up is autistic, has ADHD, CPTSD and also multiple physical conditions that effect daily life and is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has faced a lot of issues in life because of these things.

Living Reasons is being created to fix what we think is a challenging situation that is getting harder to achieve every week, month and year in the current economic, political, environmental and societal landscape. It is not easily defined but we hope the charity objects below will help put context to what we want to achieve, what we can say is that below are the issues we are trying to address, how we do this will change as quickly as society does, but the issues we want to tackle are these:

1) Outdated and damaging employment practices

2) Accessibility to services

3) Limited employment, training and education opportunities

4) Lack of support during times of crisis or need

5) Lack of equity and agency for many people in society

6) Institutional discrimination that is not challenged

7) Abuse of the legal system at all levels

8) Abuse of power in government bodies

9) Poor access to healthcare

10)  Unequal treatment of many people in society by large corporations

11)  Assumptions made by wider society based on incorrect, outdated or discriminatory rhetoric that is used in daily life

12)  Outdated company engagement with the public

13)  Lack of support that is not talked about and not being addressed

Our Living Values -

Creativity

1) Imaginative Development (Individual)

2) Instilled Collaboration (Internal)

3) Changing The Status Quo (External)

Prospectivity

1) What Can You Do (Individual)

2) What Can We Do (Internal)

3) What Can They Do (External)

Revolutionary 

1) Inspire With Confidence (Individual)

2) Boundaryless Innovation (Internal)

3) Challenge Traditions (External)

Attentivity

1) Analyse and Redesign (Individual)

2) Rebel and Reform (Internal)

3) Enquire and Reimagine (External)

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

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

What you’ll be doing:

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

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

Can I foster a dog?

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

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

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

What you’ll get:

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

Training and support

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

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

Minimum age for volunteer is 18.

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

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

Our Challenge

Brain tumours do not discriminate and they do not respect boundaries. They can strike anyone, at any age. And they strike quickly.

At The Brain Tumour Charity, we aim to address the clear gap in emotional support available to those affected by a brain tumour diagnosis, by expanding our counselling service. We know the difference that talking therapy can make to the brain tumour community and our goal is to reach more people, ensuring everyone that wants it, gets the support that they need.

How can you help?
As a Volunteer Counsellor for this service, you would work with a wide range of clients who either have a brain tumour diagnosis themselves, or have a loved one who has been diagnosed. This includes patients/carers who have been newly diagnosed, to those in/post treatment, to people at end of life, or bereaved.

This is a remote service, where we offer up to 8 free sessions to clients, delivered by either telephone or webcam.
 

We’re looking for counsellors who:

• Are qualified with a minimum of a Level 4 Diploma in Counselling
• Are integrative or person-centred counsellors
• Are a member of the BACP (or equivalent ethical body)
• Are committed to attend monthly clinical supervision
• Have an interest in working with people affected by a brain tumour and possibly experience of working with clients in a similar field. (Eg. Neurological conditions, palliative care, bereavement, etc.)
• Have the IT abilities to be able to maintain appropriate and accurate records on our counselling database.
• Have experience of working remotely, via telephone or webcam and is happy to use their own laptop, phone and WIFI for their client work.
• Have their own public liability insurance (or are willing to obtain this.)

The Brain Tumour Charity is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals belonging to minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented communities.

What can you gain from volunteering with us?

• The opportunity to work with a unique and rewarding client group
• Management supervision and regular, ongoing support from our Counselling Service Team.
• You will receive a financial contribution towards your monthly clinical supervision, with an independent supervisor of your choice.
• All diary management will be carried out by our Counselling Team, reducing the amount of admin required by you.
• The opportunity to apply for paid counsellor roles as and when they become available.

Time commitment

We ask each Volunteer Counsellor to commit to a placement of at least 6 months and to see a minimum of 3 clients per week (at a time suitable for you, but it MUST be at the same time each week). The service operates between the hours of 9am—5pm, Monday-Friday and you will be required to see clients within these hours.

Practical Considerations

Shortlisted applicants will be asked to attend an interview with our Counselling Service Manager and Counselling Service Officer.

Successful candidates will then receive a full induction to The Brain Tumour Charity and any specific training for the role, as well as ongoing support from one of the team. 

We will carry out reference and DBS checks for all successful applicants and you will be required to complete some internal data protection and disclosure documentation before commencing the role. 

Need support with the application process?

We are committed to being inclusive and recognise that there may be a number of ways we could support you through the application process. If there’s any adjustments we can make to help you fully engage in the process, don’t hesitate to let us know by getting in touch with the Volunteering Team.

About It’s Time:

It’s Time is a charity created by and for young adults who have experienced the death of a parent. Founded by people who know this grief first-hand, the charity ensures no one aged 18–35 has to navigate such loss alone. Through peer-led support, events, free group therapy, and tailored resources, It’s Time offers connection and understanding during an often isolating time. The charity also partners with universities, workplaces, and families to promote better bereavement support - recognising that grief doesn’t follow a timeline, and the help offered to young adults shouldn’t either.

The charity was founded in 2021 and we now run local peer support groups throughout England, have a year long waiting list for our group therapy and supports around 500 people in the online community.  We recognise that as we grow our needs and those of our community are changing and are looking for someone skilled in charity growth to steer us into the next phase of our development.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary role with no financial remuneration. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Location: Remote, with one in-person strategy day per year (usually on a Saturday in London).

Time Commitment:

• 4 board meetings annually (Tuesday evenings via Zoom)

• 1 annual in-person strategy day (usually a Saturday in London)

• Participation in any relevant sub-groups

• Ad hoc involvement in events, meetings, or training as needed

Reporting to: Chair and the Board of Trustees

Role Overview

The Vice Chair supports the Chair and Trustee Board in ensuring the effective governance and strategic direction of the charity. This includes providing inclusive leadership, promoting accountability, and upholding the mission and values of the organisation.

The Vice Chair will work closely with the Chair and the senior staff team to help the Board function effectively, and may represent the charity externally when needed.

Principal Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure the charity delivers maximum impact for its beneficiaries

• Uphold the Board’s responsibilities in effective governance

• Support the development and delivery of strategic direction

• Monitor major risks and opportunities, ensuring systems are in place to manage them

• Safeguard the financial health and accountability of the charity

Governance

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure governance arrangements are fit for purpose and effective

• Support trustee development and capability building

• Encourage positive change and help resolve conflicts

• Ensure a diverse and skilled Trustee Board

• Operate within agreed charity policies

External Relations

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Represent the charity at external functions, meetings, and events

• Act as an ambassador for the cause

• Support the management of external relationships and stakeholder engagement

Efficiency and Effectiveness

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure meetings are well-structured, objective, and lead to effective decision-making

• Maintain strong engagement and collective ownership among Trustees

• Foster constructive relationships within the Board

• Support the senior staff in preparing meaningful agendas and ensuring implementation of decisions

Relationship with Senior Staff

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Build and maintain an open, constructive relationship with senior staff

• Support accountability of senior staff for strategic objectives

• Provide guidance and act as a sounding board while respecting staff autonomy

• Offer support on organisational matters as appropriate

• Contribute to the annual appraisal of senior staff if requested

Person Specification

Personal Qualities

• Strong commitment to the charity’s mission and strategy

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills

• Tact, diplomacy, and the ability to engage and listen

• Collaborative and team-oriented approach

• Ability to dedicate time to the role, including occasional out-of-hours events

Experience

• Experience in strategic leadership roles

• Track record of achievement in professional or voluntary contexts

• Experience in business/community growth

• Experience representing an organisation externally

• Familiarity with chairing or co-chairing meetings is desirable

Knowledge and Skills

• Understanding of the Civil Society sector and key current issues

• Leadership and motivational skills

• Understanding of charity finance and governance

Term of Appointment
The Vice Chair will serve a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term.

Are you a finance whizz looking for a rewarding trustee role? We have an amazing opportunity to be a Treasurer for our board, where you’ll have oversight of all financial aspects of the charity and advise the board accordingly. You’ll also be a proactive board member who shares our vision and values, and works with us to shape the charity’s direction. We look forward to hearing from you!

This role can be undertaken remotely for the most part, with quarterly in-person board meetings in London. 

Please apply via the brief application form on our website.

The main tasks you'll be required to undertake:

• Oversight budgeting, forecasting and reporting both internally to the Board of Trustees as well as reporting of the annual accounts
   
• Ensuring that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly invested and economically spent
   
• Review of internal financial control environment ensuring continuous improvement and timely follow up of any actions
   
• Contributing to the strategic plan and advising on financial implications, and monitoring and advising on the financial viability of the charity
   
• Being a dedicated and proactive trustee of the charity, making meaningful contributions to meetings and discussions, and leading ad hoc pieces of work as required