Disability volunteer roles

Spark Inside is an award-winning charity that has transformed the lives of over 1,000 people living and working in our prisons. We have pioneered coaching in prisons, showing the value of coaching to change lives and systems. In the next decade, we set out to make coaching available to anyone who wants it in the justice system and aim to reach 10,000 young people with our coaching programmes. 

Our expert coaches are qualified and trained professionals. In addition to developing and delivering innovative coaching programmes, we are also committed to working with parliamentarians and government officials to influence criminal justice policy, and shift the perception of people in prison, platforming their voices and highlighting their unlocked potential.

We are seeking a Honorary Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. The right person will be a strategic thinker with at least 3 years of experience in a senior level finance role.

Duties of Treasurer
The duties of the Honorary Treasurer cover two areas: those as a Trustee and those specifically designated to the Honorary Treasurer.

Specific duties as Treasurer
The Honorary Treasurer works closely with, and provides support and advice to, the Chair of the Board of Trustees, Head of Finance and Operations and CEO.

To find out more information about the responsibilities of the role and required experience, and how to apply, please see attached job description.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Cripplegate Foundation is looking for new Governors (trustees) to join our board. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a trusted, independent and innovative grant- making organisation that has been supporting Islington for over 500 years.

Working alongside our partners at Islington Giving, we invest over £2 million a year in local charities and community groups. Together we amplify local voices, improve access to opportunities and support lasting change.

 Who we’re looking for

• Do you want to make a real difference in Islington?
• Are you passionate about tackling local poverty and inequality?
• Can you help amplify the voices of those we work with, through your personal or professional experience?
• Could you bring additional diversity to our board so that we better reflect the communities in which we work?
• Do you have some frontline charity experience, senior leadership or otherwise?
• Are you able to commit the time required to make the most of joining us?

We are genuinely encouraging a wide range of people to come forward and cannot emphasise enough how your background, life experience, approach and values are more important than any knowledge or experience of grant making, or of being a trustee elsewhere.

Full induction, mentoring and ongoing support will be provided. This is a voluntary/unpaid role, with expenses covered.

The closing date for applications is 16th October at 5:00 p.m.

For more details and how to apply, please visit our website and download the full Candidate Pack.

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

We are looking for a dedicated and organised Trustee Board Administrator to help ensure the smooth running of our governance. In this role, you will take the lead in coordinating quarterly Board meetings, liaising with Trustees and the Chair to make sure everything is well-prepared and runs efficiently.

Your responsibilities will include sending out meeting invites, preparing and sharing agendas, circulating key documents, and recording accurate minutes. You will work closely with the Chair of Trustees to support effective communication across the Board and help us stay on track with our commitments.

This is a flexible, voluntary position with quarterly meetings (three online and one in person), and you will be joining a supportive group of Trustees who are passionate about improving youth mental health and guiding the strategic direction of our work.

We are looking for someone with the below qualities:

• Organised – able to manage schedules, documents, and deadlines effectively.
• Clear communicator – confident in liaising with Trustees and the Chair.
• Attention to detail – accurate in preparing agendas and recording minutes.
• Reliable – consistent in following through with agreed tasks.
• Confidential – able to handle sensitive information with discretion.

Are you passionate about communities and the voluntary sector? Do you want to use your skills, experience or lived insight to help strengthen and support Hampshire’s VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) sector? If so, we’d love to hear from you.

Action Hampshire is currently recruiting new trustees to join our engaged and committed Board. This is an exciting opportunity to help guide the strategic direction of a well-respected organisation that works at the heart of community support across Hampshire.

We’re proud to be two years into delivering an ambitious 3-year strategy focused on:

• Building a sustainable future
• Strengthening our identity and voice
• Fostering a supportive, inclusive workplace
• Becoming more digitally smart and connected

As a Trustee, you’ll play a vital role in helping us achieve these goals and ensuring we stay true to our mission and values.

Whether you’re an experienced Trustee or completely new to the role, what matters most to us is your enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment to supporting communities. We’re particularly keen to hear from people with a range of experiences and backgrounds—including younger people, people from minoritised groups, and those with lived experience of the challenges our communities face.

You don’t need to know everything from day one—we’ll support you with an induction, ongoing learning, and a friendly, collaborative Board environment.

Our number one requirement is simply a commitment to Action Hampshire’s mission and values. But we would also like you to have the following:

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort planning how the charity will deliver its charitable purpose
• Good, independent judgement
• An ability to think creatively
• A willingness to speak your mind, but listen to the views of others
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of being a Trustee (we can help you to understand that better – just ask us)
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership

Lay Representative 

Are you eager to contribute to a leading educational charity? The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT), the UK's leading body for tax advisers, seeks a Lay Representative for its Council. We promote taxation education and aim for a simpler, more efficient tax system.

About the Role: As a non-voting Lay Representative, you will act as a 'critical friend', offering independent insight and challenging Council perspectives. Your external viewpoint will ensure the Institute benefits the public and upholds its charitable goals.

Key Contributions:

* Contribute to the development, implementation, and monitoring of the Institute's strategy.
* Ensure the Institute conducts its affairs in accordance with its charitable status and objectives, focusing on public benefit.
* Provide Council with a yearly report (approximately one side of A4) on perceptions of the charity's work in the public interest and towards its purposes.
* Utilise your skills to analyse complex issues and contribute constructively to discussions.

Who We Are Looking For: We are seeking an individual with strong governance and committee experience, ideally in a non-executive role, especially within charities or public bodies. You should have excellent analytical and communication skills, capable of engaging in strategic discussions and understanding complex reports. We value interpersonal skills, with proven ability to collaborate with diverse groups and influence constructively.

Important Independence Requirements: To ensure role independence, we cannot accept applications from Chartered Tax Advisers, tax-related professionals, or individuals with recent trustee, employee, volunteer, or business ties to the Institute, or close personal connections with trustees or senior management. Please declare you do not fall into these categories in your application.

Time Commitment & Remuneration: The role involves attending five to six Council meetings annually, including at least two in-person meetings in Central London, plus an annual half-day strategy session. A fee is paid for preparation and attendance at meetings and an hourly rate for other authorised work.

The Lay Representative is paid the following:

•£500 preparation, attendance (including the giving of feedback and any associated emails) for all Council meetings (whether in-person or virtual)

•£71.42 hourly pre-approved rate for all other work, which must be pre-authorised in advance by the Chief Executive via email setting out the work. Such instances are expected to be exceptional.

How to Apply: Please submit:

* A comprehensive CV.

* A cover letter (max 1,500 words) explaining how you meet the person specification and role criteria, including the required independence declaration.

* [Optional] A completed Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form.

Applications must be submitted by email to Rakhi Patel (HR Operations Lead) at CIOT by 29 October 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews between 17 to 19 November 2025.

For an informal discussion about the role, please email Sarah Tempany at CIOT to arrange a conversation with Helen Whiteman, CEO

Attitude is Everything are looking for someone with charity finance experience at a senior level, and someone who shares Attitude is Everything’s Vision and Mission to join our Board of Trustees as Treasurer.

To make sure that Attitude is Everything operates within the legal and financial guidelines set out in current legislation and its own financial procedures

To ensure that strong financial controls are in place and that the organisation operates within a sound financial framework

Home-Start Suffolk is seeking an exceptional individual to join our Board of Trustees as Vice Chair.
This is a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role in a well-established and growing charity that
supports families across Suffolk. As Vice Chair, you will work closely with the Chair, CEO and wider Board to
help shape our strategic direction, support strong governance and ensure we continue to meet the needs of
families in our communities.

We are specifically looking for someone with charity governance experience. You will bring a solid
understanding of how effective boards operate and feel confident supporting other trustees, offering
constructive challenge and helping to ensure the charity meets its legal and strategic responsibilities.
This Vice Chair role is part of our wider trustee recruitment and we welcome applicants who bring any of the
following:

• Experience or knowledge of the local charity or voluntary sector
• Understanding of family support or volunteer management
• Strong networks and connections within local businesses
• Previous involvement with Home-Start Suffolk as a volunteer or someone who has received support
• A passion for making a difference in your community

Interested?
We would love to hear from you. more information and a candidate pack can be found on our website.

Closing date: This is an open and rolling recruitment
Interviews: Held as applications are received
 

We are looking for a Trustee to act as the board’s lead on people and workforce matters, ensuring effective policies, systems, and culture to support staff and volunteers.

The role is unpaid and voluntary with an estimated time commitment of around 2 hours per week. 

You can find out more about being a trustee at Paradise Cooperative in our Trustee Recruitment Pack.

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Professional experience in HR or organisational development.

·Understanding of employment law.

·Strategic and practical HR skills.

Desirable

·Experience in the charity or co-operative sectors.

·CIPD qualification.

Responsibilities specific to the People and HR Trustee role

·Oversee and approve HR policies covering recruitment, induction, training, appraisal, wellbeing, and grievance handling.

·Support the Executive Director on HR-related issues and act as a sounding board for people matters.

·Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop objective-setting and performance management frameworks.

·Provide oversight of the charity’s volunteer engagement strategy, ensuring it aligns with the charity’s objectives, promotes diversity, and fosters a positive volunteer culture.

·Ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in all people-related policies and practices.

·Ensure compliance with employment law and relevant charity regulations.

Wider responsibilities of the role shared with the other trustees on the board

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’s own governance.

·Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

·Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Attributes and qualities

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

·Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organization.

·Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

·Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

·A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

·Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

·Willingness to lead according to our values.

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per week. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership and governance to ensure The Paradise Cooperative fulfils its charitable objectives. You will lead and oversee the Board, collaborate with the Executive Director, and serve as an ambassador for the charity. This role is vital to ensuring the charity operates in accordance with the law, delivers public benefit, and remains financially and strategically sustainable.

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Demonstrated commitment and passion to the values and purpose of The Paradise Co-Operative.

·Previous trustee/NED or Chair experience.

·Strong understanding of governance, strategy, and the legal duties of a charity trustee.

·Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

·Sound judgment, diplomacy, and the ability to build consensus.

Desirable

·Knowledge of or interest in urban agriculture, education in nature, or co-operative/community operating models.

·Experience of fundraising, charity finance, or stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities specific to the Chair of the Board of Trustees Role

1. Strategic Leadership

·Lead the Board in setting the charity’s strategic direction and ensuring alignment with its vision, mission, and values.

·Facilitate regular review of strategic objectives and ensure that plans are delivered effectively by the Executive Director and their team.

2. Governance and Board Management

·Ensure effective governance in accordance with the Charity Commission’s guidance and relevant legislation.

·Chair trustee meetings, encouraging collaborative and inclusive decision-making.

·Promote a culture of accountability, integrity, and transparency across the organisation.

·Ensure the Board maintains appropriate skills, diversity, and succession plans.

3. Support to the Executive Director

·Provide guidance and support to the Executive Director, ensuring a clear distinction between strategic governance and operational delivery.

·Conduct regular one-to-one meetings and at least an annual performance review with the Executive Director.

·Act as a sounding board and mentor while maintaining appropriate oversight.

4. Compliance and Risk Management

·Ensure the charity operates within its legal and regulatory framework, including safeguarding, data protection, and financial controls.

·Oversee the risk management process, ensuring appropriate mitigation strategies are in place.

5. Advocacy and Representation

·Serve as a public ambassador for Paradise Cooperative, raising the profile of the charity at key events, stakeholder meetings, and in the media, as required.

·Build and sustain strategic partnerships and relationships that support the charity’s aims.

Wider Responsibilities (Shared with All Trustees)

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’s own governance.

·Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

·Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

This post is restricted to women under schedule 9, Part 1, Equalities Act 2010

Rising Sun is a charity in Kent working to end domestic abuse and improve the lives of survivors and their children suffering from its effects.  We have an ambitious vision for a world in which women and children live free from actual or threatened domestic abuse and all forms of violence.

Established in 1978, we represent, campaign for, and support the delivery of specialist domestic abuse and prevention of violence against women and girls services in Kent, as part of a UK network.

We aim to:

• Prevent domestic abuse.
• Provide specialist services for survivors of domestic abuse which are survivor centred, trauma informed and gender responsive.
• Work in partnership with survivors and other services to provide a holistic and meaningful response to bring about lasting change.
• Advocate for survivors and provide a platform for their voice to be heard.

Equal Opportunities

Rising Sun is an equal opportunities employer. We recognise intersecting identities, and value what having a diverse team brings, both in terms of effectively responding to client needs, and engaging with each other at work. We encourage applicants from all sections of the community; especially from minority groups, as we are on a journey to increase diversity in our team and Trustee Board. Flexible working is available in the majority of roles, and we strive to accommodate the needs of all applicants and team members.

Trustee Board Duties and Collective Responsibilities

• Trustees have overall responsibility for managing the affairs of Rising Sun, to ensure high quality services for victim-survivors of domestic abuse, including children and young people
• Trustees ensure that Rising Sun operates within the law and within the confines of any contract it may have in place with other bodies, such as grant-giving organisations, housing associations and local authorities
• Trustees ensure that the business of Rising Sun is conducted openly and with integrity
• Trustees ensure that the Rising Sun operates within the terms of its governing document, framework and overall aims and objectives
• Trustees participate in defining strategic direction
• Trustees oversee the policies and procedures that underpin the work of Rising Sun
• Trustees oversee financial affairs
• Trustees safeguard the reputation and interests of Rising Sun
• Trustees identify, mitigate and manage risks
• Trustees work in the context of any authorities delegated by the Board
• Trustees support the Chair in carrying out duties as requested
• Trustees provide advice and guidance in areas of experience and expertise
• Trustees Provide challenge and support to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team as required.

Person Specification

Charity Law requires that any Trustee must be 18 or over, not be an undischarged bankrupt and not have been convicted of any unspent offence involving dishonesty or deception.

It is essential that all Trustees meet the qualities and requirements in the person specification below. In addition, all Trustees of Rising Sun are women because of the specialist nature of our work.

• Commitment to addressing violence against women and girls; and for the right of women and children to live and enjoy their lives in a safe environment
• Agreement with, and willingness to uphold, the aims and ethos of the organisation
• Commitment to give necessary time and effort to the role, and to actively promote the organisation and its work
• Good independent judgement
• Ability to work well as a member of a team
• Integrity and honesty, tolerance and patience
• Commitment to act in the best interest of the Rising Sun
• Understanding of working with confidential material
• Be able to attend meetings on a regular basis
• Be willing to learn about the organisation, its work and trustee responsibilities, and for this purpose to attend training and other events

Our Board

Our trustee board is currently made up of seven trustees, all women, who are passionate about our mission and framework, and who bring a range of skills and experience from social care and health to finance and research. We would like to recruit three or four new trustees in this round and would particularly welcome applications from people with skills and experience in communications, commissioning, safeguarding and trauma informed work.

Trustee Board meetings are held every two months from 5.30-7.30pm in person in Canterbury, with the option of online via MS Teams for occasions when trustees cannot make it in person. The CEO attends all meetings and members of the Senior Leadership Team attend on rotation. As well as standing agenda items there are always interesting and exciting opportunities to discuss, as well as challenges and risks to the organisation.

Further Information

Time Commitment

• Estimated at 2-4 hours per month comprising:
• Six 2-hour board meetings per year - most meetings are in-person in Canterbury (usually at the Prince of Wales Youth Club or another local venue if the youth club is unavailable)
• Time to read and reflect on board papers
• Attending an annual away day and occasional training sessions
• Attending optional team meetings and survivor focus groups

Note – the time commitment may be slightly greater in the initial 6 month probation and induction period due to induction activities and training.

Terms of appointment

• Trustees are appointed for a 3-year term, with the potential for re-election.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees receive a welcome pack and an induction with the Board and CEO, including an opportunity to meet some of the team and service users
• Trustees will be required to complete a DBS check and complete Safeguarding training
• Additional training may be offered where necessary.

How to Apply

To apply please send us your CV and a supporting statement explaining why you are interested in being a trustee at Rising Sun, the skills and experience you will bring to the Trustee Board, and what you would hope to get out of the role. 

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal chat with one of our trustees and, if still interested in the role, an interview with trustees and the CEO.

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