Community volunteer roles in thornton heath, greater london

Our partner supports young people, who have experienced childhood trauma such as abuse, exclusion or violence in their communities, and have experience in health, youth justice and care services.

They are seeking a new Treasurer to take a lead on providing oversight of all financial aspects of the organisations on behalf of the Board of Trustees, as well as to share responsibility for the charity’s strategic direction, ensuring sound governance and staying true to its charitable objectives.

You will advise your fellow Trustees on financial issues, have oversight of internal financial controls and managing financial risks, and make sure that accurate and insightful financial information is provided both internally and externally, as required.

The board meets quarterly, on weekday evenings, in London and the total estimated time commitment required for the role is approximately 3-5 hours per week.

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For more Trustee & Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

At a time when we are experiencing the largest reforms to the welfare rights system in a generation, we believe this is an exciting opportunity for individuals interested in welfare rights work, to join a respected organisation working at the forefront of the advice sector.

The Welfare Benefits Unit offers specialist welfare benefits advice to those who work with members of the public. Our experienced advisers provide independent support through our advice line, publications, training, consultancy, campaigns and projects.

The Welfare Benefits Unit aims to maximise benefit take-up, helping to reduce the incidence and impact of poverty and in doing so improve health, well-being, financial and social inclusion. We are a registered charity based in York. We primarily operate in North Yorkshire and York although some of our services are accessed by organisations working further afield. 

We continue to aim towards a board that reflects the populations we work to support, and as such, welcome individuals from diverse ethnic communities, LGBTQIA+ groups, as well as younger people, those with disabilities, and those who have lived experience of the welfare benefits system.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

We welcome and support applications from those new to being a Trustee. We also know that studies have shown some people are less likely to apply for positions unless they believe meet every requirement in the description. The most important thing for us is to find Trustees that connect with our values and who can readily buy into our mission. Though we have suggested skills and experience areas below, which would be keen to hear from, we’re eager to meet people that believe in our mission and can contribute to our board in a variety of ways – not just candidates who tick all the boxes.

We’re keen to add these areas of skills and experience to our board:

• Financial, legal or HR matters (especially as they may apply to a small charity)
• Expertise in marketing, digital or similar technological areas
• Welfare benefits system and welfare rights advice or lived experience.

About the Role

All Trustee positions are voluntary with reasonable expenses remunerated. To be an effective Trustee, you will need to commit up to 1-2 days per quarter to attend and prepare for board meetings which are held virtually.

Effective Trustees support our work by:

• ensuring we are working towards our vision, mission and values in everything we do
• ensuring the effective and efficient use of resources, maintaining proper financial and regulatory oversight and best practice as a charity
• approving the annual budget, and supporting strategic decision-making by actively contributing advice and guidance
• appointing key personnel such as the Chief Executive, and determining pay and conditions for the wider team
• constructively guide the Senior Leadership Team in the delivery of the organisation’s strategy
• actively representing and championing the work of the Welfare Benefits Unit.

As a growing organisation we are seeking to strengthen our Board through the appointment of 3 new trustees with a passion for supporting young people in to pathways towards meaningful and sustained employment and rewarding careers.

We are particularly looking for trustees who can demonstrate skills or experience in one or more of the following areas to enhance our Governance.

• Local Government experience
• Experience within the education sector
• Experience of policy, lobbying and campaigning

We are also seeking Young Trustees (under 25 years old) to represent youth voice on our Board. Ideally this will be someone with relevant lived experience and/or someone who has participated in Spark! programmes.

We welcome candidates with links to our priority areas of Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, Harrow, Hillingdon and Hounslow, and from ethnic minority and black backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve.

Applications from first-time trustees are welcomed and we will provide training and support on the role.

For more information please read the full recruitment pack.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Spelthorne, Staines and District group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills. 

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Spelthorne, Staines and District area to carry out this role.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the Croydon Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the West Central London Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Brent group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills. 

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Brent area to carry out this role.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

General Trustee Ad

The Bike Project’s mission is simple – we refurbish unwanted bikes and donate them to refugees and people seeking asylum, giving them freedom and independence whilst they rebuild their lives.

“I’m really grateful because life is not only about surviving. It’s about joyfulness. I feel more freedom and independent in my life, and independent from government now.”  Bike Recipient

Most people seeking asylum are banned from working and forced to many live off an allowance of £8.86 per day and those lucky enough to get refugee status still face high unemployment and isolation. Having a bike links people to essential services, including foodbanks and legal advice, as well as the local community.

The Bike Project has proved that a bike can make a difference. Not only is a bike a practical tool for tackling poverty, those who receive bikes from us report they are more connected in their community, happier and healthier as a result.

Alongside our core Bike Donations Programme, we support refugee women to learn to cycle through our Pedal Power Programme; provide ongoing support with bike maintenance through our Repair or Replace Programme; and offer the opportunity for connection and friendship through our volunteer-matching Bike Buddy Programme.

As a number of trustees are coming to the end of their terms later this year, we are looking for new trustees to join this dynamic group, including a new Treasurer (see separate advert and application). 

You will be joining a highly committed group of trustees who give their time, expertise and contacts to support the charity. Our trustees are critical in enabling us to thrive. You will work together with your fellow trustees and the wider staff team to set our strategic direction and improve our work with refugees. At the heart of everything we do is the real and instant impact a bike makes to the lives of those who have been through so much. You will be part of us achieving that.

Priority Experience Areas
We are particularly seeking those with experience in one (or more) of the following areas:

1. Lived experience of the UK asylum process

2. Digital and marketing

3. Fundraising

4. Charity operations including specifically within the refugee sector

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, and we're especially keen to hear from individuals who bring diverse perspectives, including those with lived experience of the asylum process, women, people of the global majority, and people with disabilities.

For an informal conversation about the role, please get in touch. 

No agencies please. 

We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Asian MS group. As our Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills. 

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in the UK to carry out this role.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

About us

Age UK is the country's leading charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. The over-60s is the fastest-growing group in society and there are more of us than ever before. Ageing is not an illness, but it can be challenging. At Age UK we provide services and support at a national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people. We stand up and speak for all those who have reached later life, and also protect the long-term interests of future generations..

The role in a nutshell:

Volunteers help to keep our UK charity shops running like clockwork and are an essential part of everything that we do. Our charity shops raise vital funds that support the wide range of services Age UK delivers, so if you have some free time available and would like to help, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you are looking to gain new skills and experiences, use those you already have or are just looking for a way to get out and meet new people, then we have flexible options to suit you! What will you be doing?

Volunteer Shop Assistants carry out a wide range of tasks in their roles. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, keeping our shop floor full and organised or supporting with raffle ticket sales and promoting gift aid.

How would you be supported in this role?

When you begin your role, you will receive a mix of e-learning and in-person training to get you started. Throughout the role, you will receive refresher training as required as well as ongoing support, reimbursement for role-related expenses and the opportunity to further shape the volunteering you do.

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Age UK operates charity shops to raise funds for the delivery of services for older people in need. Volunteers play a key role in the shop team, ensuring our shops are welcoming places in the community and selling the items that are generously donated to our organisation.

Additional information:

We offer a variety of flexible shifts for volunteers.

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning, will follow Age UKs policies and be an excellent representative for the charity. We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities, so we will do what we can to find a role which works for you.

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time.

We meet weekly during term time on a Wednesday. Outside of our weekly meetings, there are optional opportunities to attend training, events, and other youth activities, including summer camps. 

Pursuing the role

• Welcome Event (Induction) : 09/06/2025
• Training for role : Safeguarding Level 2 Youth Leader Training

Closing date for these opportunities is: 23/07/2025

Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

We meet weekly during term time on a Wednesday. Outside of our weekly meetings, there are optional opportunities to attend training, events, and other youth activities, including summer camps.

Pursuing the role

• Welcome Event (Induction) - Monday 2nd June 2025

Closing date for these opportunities is: Wednesday 23rd July 2025

My Life My Say exists to empower underrepresented youth to engage in politics, influence policy, and drive change through innovative, youth-led and non-partisan solutions, inspiring the next generation of leaders in democracy.​

We are currently hiring for a new Chairperson to replace the outgoing Chair who has served for the last 6 years. It is an ideal opportunity to steer the transition of the charity at a time when their Founding CEO has become Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy, and we have appointed an interim leadership structure with two promising Co-CEOs.​

The new Chair will come in to support the charity on a new journey. There is funding in place but there is an opportunity to create a new 5-year plan that will:

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1. Leverage the success of National Voter Registration Day targeting young voters to start the process of engagement

2. Continue to deliver the annual Next Generation Conference inspiring so many burgeoning political minds

3. Expand the impact of the Democracy Café model to stimulate the voice of young people

4. Continue the expansion of the Squad programme that ensures a bright and ever-increasing future for the role of young people in democracy

The Role

​The role of the Chair will be to ensure the professional running of the Board of Trustees, meeting quarterly to enable the governance of the charity. The role also includes mentoring of the management team to enable them to meet their potential and to allow the charity to thrive under their leadership.

There is an ambassadorial dimension too, seeking to represent the charity when meeting donors, funders, notable politicians, and influencers to underline the quality, integrity, and potential of the charity.

The final responsibility is to lead the assembled trustees to act as a force multiplier to affect the mission of the charity.

Expectations

Candidates for the Chair role will have:

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• Prior board or senior leadership experience, ideally with a strong awareness of key issues in the democracy space.

• Bring strong governance expertise, strategic planning skills, and experience in influencing and fundraising.

• A commitment to amplifying the voice of young people is essential, along with a collaborative and inclusive leadership style that aligns with the values of the organisation. 

• Existing networks in political, philanthropic, or corporate sectors would be a welcome asset in helping to champion the mission and expand the reach of My Life My Say.

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This role is not remunerated but is an ideal position for someone who is looking to support an organisation with huge potential and a very palpable impact on the communities it serves. The role has the potential for significant exposure and network, so will enhance the career potential of the successful candidate. The outgoing Chair will be available for a smooth transition and will continue to support the Chair with anything they need.

Additional Information

Through this recruitment process we are looking to attract and retain a wide breadth of skills and experience relevant to the work of MLMS. We welcome all applications from those individuals who believe they have the skills and experience outlined above.

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Term of Office

The term of appointment is for three years with the possibility of renewal for a further one terms of three years. Trustees work on a pro bono basis.

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Further Information

MLMS confirms its commitment to equal opportunities in all its activities. It is intended that no applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of political belief, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or social class. Selection and promotion criteria are kept under review to ensure that individuals are treated on the basis of the job requirements and on their relevant personal merits, and are not disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.

We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Haringey group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills. 

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Haringey area to carry out this role.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.