Environment volunteer roles

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

The Bread and Butter Thing (TBBT) is about making everyday things in life more affordable for people in low income households. We do this through a membership scheme that offers regular provisions such as food and toiletries.

People apply for membership through our community hubs. Hubs are projects that are already doing great work in the community throughout the Northwest. TBBT requires volunteers at our warehouse in Trafford to collect food from our suppliers.

We get food from industry surpluses that might otherwise become waste and we use it to put food in the homes of people in need. Every day we collect food or have it delivered into our warehouse at Trafford.

What we do really makes a difference to thousands of families, but we couldn’t do it without our amazing volunteers. 

If you are keen to work with great people whose common goal is to help support local communities, then we would love to welcome you into our team of volunteers.

You’d need to be over 25 with a full, clean UK driving licence, with various shifts Monday to Saturday starting from 7am.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us. We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.

Volunteer with The Remakery Oxford

Who we are

A community-driven organisation, our mission at Remakery Oxford is to foster a circular economy approach to waste in Oxford. Through creativity, skill-sharing and collaboration, we transform waste into art and function, providing an antidote to fast fashion and single-use culture.

Our focus is to help shift mindsets around sustainability, consumption and top-down mass production.  Through workshops, talks and podcasts, we encourage experimentation, social innovation and education, driving forward the idea that anyone can curate art, function and fashion with minimal planetary impact.

Our next goal is to establish a studio for those who lack the space and tools to work independently. With the support of our volunteer team we hope to provide a collaborative space in exchange for skills sharing in the community.

Our values

1. Disruption: We believe in challenging current systems and ideologies and encouraging community members to be agents for change.
2. Collaboration: We are a community-driven organisation with a focus on learning and growing together.
3. Open-mindedness: We firmly believe that change comes about through experimentation
4. Curiosity: We foster creativity and continuous learning.
5. Respect: We respect people and the planet, championing fairness and resourcefulness.

Where we are now

We have run several successful events and have developed a modest but engaged follower base. We currently have a small but well-established volunteer team alongside a growing newsletter community and a few established local partnerships. 

What we have achieved:

- Two successful Upcycle fairs

- A variety of workshops (e.g., upcycled jewellery, jeans-to-totes, low-impact film development).

- Built a community of remakers and trash artists

We are keen to explore new activities, circularity at their core, that can maximise our impact in Oxford.

What we need help with

We have flexible volunteer opportunities for anyone who shares our passion for circularity and is willing to uphold our values. It may suit you if you work part time, are out of work, are retired, on parental leave or are a student. There's no minimum time commitment.

We are looking for volunteers in these areas:

Running Events - Creative types who want to run workshops and other events themed around circularity, reuse, repair and reimagination.

Marketing, Content & Outreach - Social Media, Creative Writing, Video Editing, Infographics, Event Promotion.

Organising Events - Planning, Promoting, Venues, Flyers, Coordinating attendance.

Community & Partnerships - University, Families, Schools, Artists & Makers, Corporate Outreach, Fundraising Support.

Tech & Digital - Website creation and management, eCommerce setup, launch and support.

Circular Projects - Local grower & composter roles, waste hub, circular systems experiments.

We have roles which can be handled remotely as well as in person.

What's in it for you

You'll gain experience in sustainability, circular design, and community building while contributing to a purpose-driven organisation. You'll connect with like-minded makers, artists, and changemakers, with flexible hours to fit around your other commitments.

Most important is an abundance of passion, energy and enthusiasm for circularity and making a positive impact in the community.

How to apply

Send us your application and please tell us:

• Your interests and relevant skills
• Availability
• Why you'd like to join us

We would love to have you as part of our growing community.

Do you believe everyone should have the chance to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the Peak District?

Then come and join this small, but mighty charity board as a Trustee, to help protect the Peak District for future generations.

Location: Hybrid (Peak District/Bakewell HQ and online)
Time Commitment: Approx. 4 Board meetings + 1 strategy day per year
Term: 3 years initially, renewable thereafter
Renumeration: Voluntary, with reasonable expenses covered

The Peak District National Park Foundation is a growing charity with a big bold mission: to make the Peak District a thriving home for nature and people. A place which is welcoming to all and cared for by everyone.

Since launching in 2019, they've successfully raised over £2.2 million to make the Park greener, wilder and more accessible. Connecting thousands of young people to nature, restoring rare habitats and helping communities discover the power of the outdoors.

They're proud of what they've achieved, but there's still so much more to do. Nature loss, climate change and unequal access to the countryside are urgent challenges. At the same time, public funding for National Parks has fallen dramatically. That's where this vital work comes in - and where you could too.

About the role

As a Trustee, you'll help shape the Foundation's next chapter. You'll guide strategy, champion the mission and ensure they're delivering lasting impact for nature and people.

You'll join a passionate, collaborative Board, supporting a nimble, high-performing team that's already making a big difference on the ground.

You don't need prior trustee experience - what matters most is your enthusiasm, curiosity and belief in the power of nature to connect and inspire. You'll receive a full induction and training.

Who We're Looking For

We're looking for people who bring positive energy, fresh ideas and a diversity of perspectives to the Board. You might have expertise in:

• Fundraising or income generation
• Business or financial strategy
• Partnerships with local or regional business communities
• Accessibility, inclusion and belonging

Or you might simply have a deep love or connection to the Peak District and a desire to see it protected and celebrated for generations to come.

If you can think strategically, communicate warmly and bring people together, then we'd love to hear from you.

Who should apply?

We're very happy to consider applications from those living outside the Park who have a strong connection or love for it (providing you're comfortable attending some Board meetings in-person, with expenses paid).

We also want to emphasise that candidates from all backgrounds are warmly encouraged to apply - in particular, Black, Asian, and global majority candidates, disabled people, those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, younger candidates (under 40) and first-time trustees.

We're looking for individuals who will culturally add to the organisation, rather than simply fit into an existing mould

Why apply

This is your opportunity to share your time and expertise to make a meaningful impact on one of the UK's most iconic landscapes. Serving as a Trustee is a powerful way to show your support and help shape its future.

How to apply

A short CV or profile is a great first step, but please also feel free to get in touch to receive a copy of the recruitment pack or an informal conversation. Our Regional Director, Amelia Lee, is leading on this opportunity.

Deadline: 9am on Monday 3^rd November, but please do get in touch ASAP if interested as we'd love to start conversations as soon as possible.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

The role of Preventative Mental Health Project Worker will support the Project Lead in the preparation for, and delivery of, One-Eighty’s preventative mental health projects including Make Me Smile, Kick Start and the Summer Project.  

There is also the opportunity of assisting with the marketing of projects, particularly Make Me Smile and processing of feedback from young people attending the project.

Overseen by One-Eighty’s Project Lead and supported by the Volunteer Coordinator, this role involves:

• preparing the resources to take to project sessions
• creating, maintaining, and developing impact/outcomes data collected pre- and post-sessions,
• supporting the delivery of the sessions to young people themselves - taking a lead role in this is part of the development roles associated with this volunteering opportunity

Skills and qualities needed

o You will be inducted and trained on the service standards for delivery.

o We will also provide training and mentoring to help you understand the administrative and data record-keeping requirements.

o You are required to complete a DBS check.

o You will need to undertake safeguarding and other related training courses prior to this volunteer placement. You will also need to read and agree to safeguarding and service delivery policies prior to the project delivery. One-Eighty holds safeguarding young people as one of its main priorities to enable impactful and high-quality delivery of services.

When and where

Make Me Smile:

We are currently expanding the delivery of this project. Initially, you will be involved in the marketing around this with project delivery opportunities to follow.

 Kick Start:

This project is being delivered on an ongoing basis to a variety of schools so there are opportunities to become involved in project delivery immediately.

We need volunteers who can be available for a 7-week block - approximately 1/2 a day each week over the 7 weeks.

o The schools we work in are located throughout Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. There are potential opportunities for car sharing and you can decline an opportunity if it is not viable for you.

o Attendance at our Oxford office will be required for the preparation of materials depending on the project you are assisting with.

We're looking for 2-3 detail-oriented and strategic Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Specialist Volunteers to help optimise our online presence and ensure our campaigns and content reach the communities that need them most and increase the charity’s search engine results rankings. The SEO Specialist Volunteers will play a key role in enhancing the visibility and searchability of Burning Nights CRPS Support’s website and digital content.

The SEO Specialist Volunteers will be volunteering within the Communications & Marketing Team to implement SEO best practices, conduct keyword research, improve site structure, and analyse web performance – all to ensure our content reaches a broader audience and amplifies the voice of our charity’s supporters online.

Key Tasks and Objectives

• Competitor and Keyword Research: Conduct keyword research to inform website content and campaign strategies.
• On-page optimisation: Optimise existing content for improved search engine ranking (meta tags, meta descriptions, headers, alt text, etc.)
• Monitor and analyse SEO performance using tools such as Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and SEMrush.
• Technical SEO Implementation: Identify technical SEO issues and collaborate with content teams to resolve them.
• Backlink and Off-Page SEO: Assist in developing backlink strategies and improving domain authority.
• Support the content team in creating SEO-optimised articles and pages.
• Provide monthly reports on SEO performance and suggest improvements.
• Stay up to date with SEO trends, Google algorithm updates, and emerging best practices.

Key Skills or Qualifications

• Excellent understanding of SEO principles and search engine algorithms.
• Proven experience in conducting SEO audits, strategy development, and implementation.
• Experience using SEO tools such as Google Search Console, Google Analytics, Ahrefs, or SEMrush or similar platforms.
• Previous experience in digital marketing, content strategy, or technical SEO.
• Ability to perform keyword research and competitor analysis.
• Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and content management systems (ideally Django framework).
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written communication and reporting skills.
• Evidence of organisational skills, with good attention to detail.
• The ability to work independently, turning recommendations into action without needing constant oversight.
• A passion for using your skills to support patients and families impacted by a debilitating pain condition and help save lives.
• Passion for creating inclusive and accessible digital spaces.
• Highly organised, self-motivated, and able to work independently.
• Enthusiastic about supporting a small charity.
• Willing to learn, adapt, and collaborate with a supportive team.

Desirable Experience

• Experience of Google Ads for nonprofits.
• Experience of using Django framework websites.
• Familiarity with accessibility best practices and inclusive web design.
• Experience working with or volunteering for nonprofit / charitable organisations.
• Demonstrable IT skills, particularly Google Drive and Microsoft.
• Good research and information management skills.
• An understanding of the charity sector and/or fundraising.

Key Benefits

• Volunteer as part of a forward-thinking, supportive team.
• Unique opportunity to directly contribute to strategic SEO recommendations, and the implementation of those changes to increase the charity’s visibility.
• At Burning Nights CRPS Support you’ll use your SEO skills for a mission with a real, measurable impact. This is more than just a volunteer role, it’s an opportunity to change and save lives.
• Make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families impacted by a severe pain condition.
• Building your network and forming connections with like-minded people and organisations.
• Enhance your CV and gain skills that are transferable to a variety of career paths.
• Receive training and ongoing support from our team.
• Experience the personal satisfaction and fulfilment that comes from helping others.

Training and Support

• Full induction to our organisation, as well as check-ins, ongoing training, supervision and support from the Communications & Marketing Lead Volunteer, Volunteer Co-ordinators, Trustees and the Volunteer Team.
• This a remote volunteering opportunity with regular online team check-ins and collaborative sessions with a supportive, creative, and inclusive team environment.
• Relevant and ongoing training for your volunteer role.
• Regular updates on charity activities.
• Support, advice and guidance from Charity team.
• After 3 months volunteering, all volunteers are eligible for additional training courses (reasonable cost).
• Out-of-pocket expenses, approved in advance will be reimbursed.

Apply your education expertise to strengthen the Board at The Children's Trust, the UK's leading charity for children with brain injury and neurodisability.

Applications close Monday 3rd November.

Who we are

The Children’s Trust is the UK’s leading charity for children with brain injury and neurodisability. With a clear vision for the future and a renewed leadership team, we are positioned to lead innovation in childhood brain injury and neurodisability rehabilitation. We have an ambitious new strategic direction focusing on innovative rehabilitation approaches that will help more children rebuild their lives after brain injury and neurodisability. We operate our pioneering special school, which is rated Outstanding by regulators. Our school serves children and young people with neurodisability leading to lifelong and life-limiting complex health needs, creating profound and complex barriers to learning. With recent CQC and Ofsted inspections continuing to be extremely positive, we are about to launch our ambitious five-year strategy, focused on helping more children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability to live the best life possible.

We are currently exploring the strategic place and future of our school, which makes this an ideal time for an education professional to join our Board and help chart a new future for this vital service. With this, we’re seeking an exceptional Trustee with education expertise to help guide us through this transformational phase.

About the role

We have made a number of key appointments to the Board and senior leadership team in the last 12-18 months, including a new Chair and Chief Executive. With some of our longest serving Trustees approaching the end of their terms, we are looking to make further appointments to our Board and committees to bring fresh, external perspective, challenge and leadership.

We are seeking an individual with education experience to join our Board and strengthen the voice of education expertise as we look to the future of our school and the exciting opportunities it presents. This appointment will help ensure our Board has the specialist knowledge needed to support our ‘Outstanding’ school and its continued development.

Who we are looking for

We are interested in hearing from professionals from the education sector who have had senior-level experience and who have a good understanding of SEND, and school organisations and structures. This could be from a variety of different environments and sectors such as schools, multi academy trusts, special schools, local authority and/or central government or regulation. While experience in special education is important, we are primarily seeking someone with a broad education expertise who understands the wider education system. Experience in commissioning or setting up new special academies or MATs would be particularly valuable. We are looking for someone with an understanding and experience of safeguarding, particularly for children with SEND, alongside their broader education expertise.

We are looking for a Trustee who aligns with our mission and is genuinely excited by our work with children with brain injury and neurodisability. You’ll be joining a Board that’s been significantly

refreshed over the past two years. We’re particularly committed to increasing diversity on our Board and would be especially pleased to hear from candidates with lived experience of brain injury, neurodisability, disability or neurodiversity, those from diverse ethnic backgrounds, lower socio-economic backgrounds, or who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ communities.

• Time Commitment

Our board typically meets 6 times a year, including our annual strategy away day, and committees typically meet 4-6 times annually. Outside of the formal meeting schedule, it is likely that additional time will be needed for relationship building and ad hoc discussions with the executive team and fellow board members.

Board meetings take place in person at our Tadworth site in Surrey, and we have a strong preference for in-person attendance to maximise engagement and relationship building, though we maintain some flexibility for online participation in certain circumstances. The Education Committee meets throughout the year, usually in person.

This is an ideal time to join The Children’s Trust. We have stable finances, a clear strategic direction, and the opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation in childhood brain injury rehabilitation and help chart a new future for our Outstanding school.

If you’re looking for a Trustee role where you can make a real difference to some of the most vulnerable children in our society, where your expertise will be valued and utilised, and where you’ll be part of a forward-looking organisation with genuine ambition for the future, we’d love to hear from you.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications close Monday 3rd November.

City of Wolverhampton College is looking for dynamic and committed individuals to join its Corporation Board as Governors. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the strategic direction of a forward-thinking college whose purpose is to define futures.

Location: Wolverhampton

Time commitment: 12 hours per month

 Closing date: 9 a.m. Wednesday 12th November

Who we are

City of Wolverhampton College currently operates from two main campuses in Wolverhampton – Paget Road and Wellington Road – and delivers over 300 different qualifications through a range of full-time and part-time courses, including apprenticeships and HE. We also have specialist provisions for polymer training, rail, and electric vehicle maintenance, delivered from satellite sites at Telford, Dudley, and Bentley Bridge (Wolverhampton).  Each year, we deliver education and training to around 9,000 students.

As an education provider, the College is subject to periodic inspection by Ofsted.  The most recent inspection took place in January 2023, and the College was rated ‘Good’ overall, demonstrating the high level of quality that we deliver across the College. This is further demonstrated by our consistently high achievement rates, our growth in our student recruitment numbers and the high levels of satisfaction that both our students and our staff report.

Over recent times, we have been progressing with an exciting estate transformation project, which has already seen us extend our Wellington Road campus to include new training workshops and classrooms as part of our Construction Innovation Centre. Furthermore, in November, we will take the next step on this journey by vacating our Paget Road site and moving into a new state-of-the-art campus – the City Learner Quarter.

These estate developments are just one example of how we continue to evolve and develop our provision, ensuring that the education and training we deliver are of the highest quality whilst led by the needs of our local community, employers and stakeholders such as the West Midlands Combined Authority.

From a strategic perspective, our new strategic plan will be published soon and has been created in collaboration between our Governors and our Senior Leadership Team, led by our Principal & Chief Executive, Louise Fall, who was appointed just over a year ago.

Once this plan is published, attention will turn from development to delivery, and to do this, Louise and her colleagues across the college will be able to call upon the board for their support. Our Board is made up of a diverse range of successful strategic leaders. As our college enters a new phase of its journey, we believe now is the right time to add new perspectives and expertise to our board. As such, we now seek to appoint a number of new members who can provide this in the years ahead.

About the role

Becoming a Governor at the City of Wolverhampton College is a rewarding opportunity to use your professional skills and experience to make a tangible difference to education, our local communities, and the lives of diverse group of learners.

As a Governor, you will play a central role in shaping the future of the College, ensuring it continues to thrive and delivers high-quality education and training.

Working collectively as part of our Corporation Board, led by our Chair, Mike Hastings, you will help determine the organisational culture, educational character and strategic direction of the College, while safeguarding its financial health and long-term sustainability. For context, our annual turnover is c.£43m, and we have a formal financial health rating of Good.

Governors at the College hold responsibility for approving such things as our mission and our annual budgets, as well as overseeing the performance and remuneration of senior leaders. The Board also sets frameworks for staff pay and conditions, ensuring that the College remains an excellent place to work and study.

In our most recent external review of governance, our board was recognised as being high-performing and for ensuring that we prioritise the success and well-being of our students. The findings of this review showed our board was highly proficient and consistently had a positive impact on college strategy, effectiveness and outcomes.

Your impact as a Governor will be wide-reaching: from safeguarding the use of public funds and ensuring strong governance, to setting and monitoring targets that drive student retention, achievement, and success. In short, you will help ensure every learner has the opportunity to reach their potential.

Who we are looking for

Having considered the current skills composition on our Board, we believe there are several areas of expertise which would add considerable value to our Board. These are:

• Qualified finance professionals
• Professionals working in senior compliance, risk and audit-focused roles
• Those working in leadership roles within local employers and the wider business community, ideally leading business operations of an organisation which complements the curriculum strategy of the college.
• Those with oversight and responsibility for large-scale capital development projects and facilities management in similarly large and complex organisations
• A professional with expertise in the area of safeguarding

Prior experience as a member of a non-executive board is not essential, but it will, of course, be welcomed, especially where this experience relates to time served on an audit or finance committee within a complex business or not-for-profit environment.

The role requires commitment and active participation. Our Governors meet five times per year in person on Thursdays from 5 pm, with additional committee and strategy sessions across the year. Preparation, attendance, and engagement are essential, as is a willingness to attend College events and undertake training. On average, the role involves around 12 hours per month.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 12th November. 

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Remuneration:

Travel and subsistence will be paid for attendance at meetings in accordance with the ARFID Awareness expenses policy where required. Board members are not remunerated for their Board/trustee work.

Reports to:

Board of Trustees

Regular Liaison with:

• Board of Trustees
• Executive Directors

Duration of appointment:

Three-year term (with a possible extension of a further three years)

Overview:

Established in 2019 and supporting a community of over 30,000 families ARFID Awareness UK is the only registered UK charity dedicated to raising awareness and further information about Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder.  As a not-for-profit, we provide individuals, parents, carers and medical professionals with up-to-date relevant information, research and support.

We are equally committed to supporting medical professionals across varying specialities, by equipping them with the information they need to ensure that their patients receive an early diagnosis and have access to appropriate care.

Our charitable aims are to:

1. Raising awareness about the condition within the medical and associated professions and the general public in such ways as the trustees shall determine;
2. Providing advice and information in such ways as the trustees shall determine to enable and empower parents and carers to advocate for the children in their care;
3. Facilitating research into the condition, the useful results of which will be published for the public benefit;
4. Potentially providing grants of financial assistance to enable economically disadvantaged families to obtain necessary treatment and medication unavailable via the NHS.
5. Advancing the education of the public in the subject of ARFID.

With regards to our structure, we are a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). As a CIO, our Charity Trustees are protected with limited liability, and whilst they are responsible for helping to manage the organisation, they do not hold dual roles of Company Director as they might with other charity structures.

Our mission is to remove the uncertainty, ambiguity and frustrations experienced by parents, carers and individuals over obtaining a diagnosis and treatment by providing general advice that may improve their journey.

Time Commitment:

Trustees meet twice a year virtually. Meetings last approximately 2 hours.

The Remuneration Committee meets once per year virtually. Meetings last approximately 1 hour.

In addition, Trustees are expected to allow time for reading of papers and preparation for meetings, attending events training and induction.  As a small charity there may also be a requirement for additional input of approximately 1-2 hours per month specific to your professional background and expertise as we continue through a period of growth.

Purpose of the role:

Board of Trustees

The Board of trustees (the Board’) is the body with the legal duty to protect the mission and vision of ARFID Awareness UK and to ensure that it is run in accordance with legal requirements.

The role of the Board is to provide good governance and leadership by: 

• Shaping ARFID Awareness UK’s organisational strategy 
• Approving organisational statutory policy
• Ensuring the organisation’s financial stability and sustainability 
• Appointing the Executive Director/s (overseen by the Chair of the Board on behalf of the Board) 
• Providing support and constructive challenge to the Executive Director/s and their staff
• Setting and monitoring procedures for assessing and managing risk 
• Taking advice from Board members and external specialist advisors 
• Monitoring strategy performance 
• Representing ARFID Awareness UK externally where necessary

As a charity CIO, Board members are charity trustees only. They do not represent any group or organisation in this role and they must act in good faith and in the best interests of ARFID Awareness UK.

Chair duties:

• Chair and facilitate board meetings
• Provide inclusive leadership to the organisation and the Board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of ARFID Awareness UK purpose and delivering strategic and charitable aims
• Ensure that the Board is effective in its task of setting and implementing the organisation’s direction and strategy
• Support each trustee to fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of ARFID Awareness UK
• Support and constructively challenge the Executive Director/s to ensure that ARFID Awareness UK operates in line with statutory and legal requirements and is effective in its outputs
• Ensure financial probity and that all resources are focussed on achieving the aims and objectives of the organisation for the benefit of the membership and delivery of charitable objects
• Appoint the Executive Directors
• Appoint and support the ARFID Awareness UK Treasurer
• Act as an ambassador of ARFID Awareness UK
• Ensure the smooth running of Board meetings, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment
• Ensure robust and compliant governance arrangements in adherence with charity and statutory regulation
• Lead Board development activities

Alongside the Executive Director:

• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other meetings where required
• Developing the board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning
• Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation,

Where staff are employed:

• Liaising with the Executive Director/s to oversee the organisation’s affairs and to provide support as appropriate.
• Leading the process of supporting and appraising the performance of the Executive Director/s

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Significant experience of charity governance and trusteeship, demonstrating understanding of best practice and regulatory compliance
• Proven experience of chairing boards, committees or senior leadership teams effectively
• Track record of supporting small to medium organisations through periods of growth, change and development
• Strong strategic thinking and planning skills with ability to provide vision and direction
• Excellent facilitation and interpersonal skills, able to build consensus and manage diverse perspectives
• Confident and effective communication skills including active listening and constructive challeng.
•  Ability to work effectively as a member of a diverse team whilst maintaining independence and accountability as Chair
• Understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of charity trusteeship and Chair role

Desirable:

• Senior leadership experience in the charity or non-profit sector
• Experience of supporting and appraising Executive Directors or senior leaders
• Knowledge of the healthcare sector and/or ARFID
• Understanding of charity finance, risk management and compliance frameworks

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

BECOME A BLUE SMILE TRUSTEE

As a trustee you will be able to use your passion for children’s mental health; your experience and knowledge to guide our strategy and vision for the future.

Blue Smile's mission is to transform the mental health and life chances of Cambridgeshire children through arts-based therapies, supporting over 200 children a week in the region providing one-to-one therapy and groupwork. We work in particular, in accordance with our charitable aims, with those who face disadvantage or deprivation.

We are seeking new Trustees to join our Board to help us achieve our mission.

Effective governance is key to the continued success and sustainability of our charity. As a trustee you will be able to use your passion for children’s mental health; your experience and knowledge to guide our strategy and vision for the future.

Our Board of Trustees is particularly looking to welcome new trustees with experience in the areas of fundraising, education (primary) and the small charity sector. However, we very much welcome people with a diverse range of backgrounds, skills and lived experience who would like to contribute to the success of our work.

As a trustee, you will receive training to carry out your role, have opportunities to represent Blue Smile in the community, and be part of a supportive and welcoming board. Being a trustee gives you the chance to gain experience in strategic planning, develop skills in new areas, and add significant value to a thriving charity.

Commitment

The Board of Trustees meets six times a year; usually on a weekday evening.

Trustees can also be involved in the work of sub-committees and will meet for a strategy planning session annually.

Location

Board meetings take place online; however, we would welcome visits to our head office in Cambridge.

We would be particularly interested to hear from you if you live or work in the Peterborough and Fenland area of the county.

Remuneration

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

We are committed to a diversity of voices in our organisation. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.  We would encourage younger people to consider applying – you do not need to have held a trustee or similar role before. We would also like to hear from you if you are from under-represented groups at Blue Smile such as individuals from Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQI+ people and people with a disability, or if you have experience of child and family statutory services in your own personal life.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Join disability and education charity National Star as a Trustee, guiding the organisation as it implements its recently agreed five-year strategy.

What will you be doing?

Do you want to play your part in supporting one of the UK’s leading disability charities to achieve its ambition for growth, providing more education and long-term living opportunities for people with complex disabilities?

National Star, whose headquarters is in Gloucestershire, is seeking several people who share its vision of a world in which people with disabilities are able to realise their potential as equal and active citizens in control of their lives. As a member of the Trustee Board, you will also be a company director as the charity is also a registered company.

Ideal Trustees will:

* Adhere to the charity's values

* Have personal integrity and be able to demonstrate a passion and commitment to National Star

* Prepare and participate actively in meetings

* Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Governors, demonstrating empathy and awareness of the needs of others

* Have good communication skills, tact and diplomacy

* Have experience, or a willingness to learn, about strategic thinking and risk

* Have knowledge, or a willingness to learn, about issues affecting people with disabilities and the specialist education sector

* Be prepared to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

What you will bring:

The charity is looking to recruit people with a broad range of experience and are particularly interested in attracting candidates with knowledge / experience of:

* Company law and the specific legal requirements for charities in special needs and social care sectors

* Marketing and communication expertise including networking and fundraising

* Business acumen with a strong financial background

National Star is a Disability Confident Employer. The charity is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community, including those currently under-represented on o0ur Trustee Board, which includes women, people with disabilities and members of black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

The Trustee Board meets four times a year, generally during the week between 4pm – 7pm. In addition, Trustees are expected to become active members of a sub-committee. Board papers are distributed in advance to allow Trustees to prepare for each meeting.

What are we looking for?

Ideal Trustees will:

* Adhere to the charity's values of ambition, collaboration, integrity, respect and sustainability

* Have personal integrity and be able to demonstrate a passion and commitment to National Star

* Prepare and participate actively in meetings

* Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Governors, demonstrating empathy and awareness of the needs of others

* Have good communication skills, tact and diplomacy

* Have experience, or a willingness to learn, about strategic thinking and risk

* Have knowledge, or a willingness to learn, about issues affecting people with disabilities and the specialist education sector

* Be prepared to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

We are recruiting several trustees with a range of skills.

What difference will you make?

By joining National Star's Trustee Board, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are playing a part in the future development of one of the leading disability charities in England and Wales as well as being able to develop your own skills in board level discussions, executive decision making and strategic planning. Your fresh perspective could help the charity to see things in a different light and your professional expertise could be utilised to support our staff team in delivering our vision and values.

You will gain a broad understanding of the challenges faced by young people with complex disabilities and be able to build your professional network.

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance providing a cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and a CV. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete our additional application form

International Aid for the Protection & Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) is a small but mighty animal welfare charity that runs projects and campaigns to create a better future for animals in need around the world.

We’re looking for a Celebrity & Media Partnerships Volunteer to help raise IAPWA’s profile by building relationships with celebrities, influencers, and media contacts. This is a new area for us, so you’ll have the chance to shape it and make a real impact on how our campaigns, appeals, and projects reach the public, as well as amplifying the success of our fundraising initiatives.

Key Tasks

• Researching, identifying, and approaching potential celebrity, influencer, and media contacts.
• Building and maintaining long-term, positive relationships with celebrity ambassadors and public figures.
• Coordinating their involvement in IAPWA’s campaigns, appeals, fundraising and education initiatives, and major announcements.
• Helping to secure interviews, features, and other media opportunities that highlight IAPWA’s work and impact.
• Maintaining a database of celebrity and media contacts, keeping track of activity and outcomes to help us learn and grow in this area.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in PR, media, or celebrity engagement.
• Ideally an existing network of contacts, with the confidence to expand this further.
• A proactive approach and enthusiasm for using your skills to support animal welfare.

What You’ll Gain

• A chance to use your experience and connections to make a real difference for animals worldwide.
• Flexibility to volunteer around your own schedule.
• The opportunity to help shape a brand-new area of growth within IAPWA.

We are thrilled to welcome a Digital Marketing Manager to work alongside our Operational Director and our marketing Team at a pivotal time for our charity.

About Us

After a challenging period of inactivity due to the impacts of Covid, we are excited to embark on a new chapter, as we are ready to restart our activities in 2025 and to develop our projects and create a positive impact in our community.

This is a unique opportunity for those eager to be part of a project evolving from its early stages to the launching of new initiatives. The volunteer will have ample opportunity to learn about charity structure, develop skills within the third sector, grow with the charity and see the results of their work as the charity develops. Please, visit our website to read more about us before applying. 

What this position entails

The Digital Marketing Manager will be responsible for formulating our digital marketing strategy, including digital fundraising strategy, guiding the content creation team, and managing the brand voice, while also laying a solid marketing foundation for the organisation.

Collaborating with the operational director and the content creators, the manager will lead the crafting of our organisational strategic plan to implement marketing initiatives. This role involves developing our brand, enhancing communication and our online visibility, as well as providing robust support to the fundraising team in reaching our fundraising objectives by optimising digital presence, events and grant applications.

The ideal candidate should be capable of working autonomously, leading all facets of our marketing efforts, and managing a team. We seek a professional with experience in start-ups who can develop a brand from its inception and navigate budget limitations using free tools.

What are we looking for?

Essential:

• Proficient in Digital Marketing plan development and execution
• Manage content creation with our assistants' support
• Brand management
• Manage engaging content for social media and fundraising campaigns
• Maintain brand consistency across all platforms and act as a brand guardian
• Social media and digital marketing
• Track performance metrics and optimise strategies for improved reach and effectiveness
• Ensure alignment between marketing campaigns and fundraising initiatives.
• Develop a framework for expanding the marketing function as the charity grows
• Identify and implement process improvements and new initiatives to support charity growth.
• Ability to manage a team.

Who should apply:

• A senior marketing professional (3 years + of experience) with solid all-around marketing experience.
• A digital marketing manager keen to bring their ideas to the table or a marketing executive seeking a step up into a marketing manager's job
• Strategic experience
• Ability to work with limited resources
• Those looking to help lead the development and growth of our charity
• Solution-focused with good interpersonal skills.
• Logical in approach, influential and able to develop creative solutions
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills at all levels, including active listening

What difference will you make?

By getting involved you will gain:

• A chance to expand your skills in charity strategic operations.
• This is an excellent opportunity for professionals eager to utilise their talents to address community needs and contribute to reducing inequality.

Before you apply

Please send your CV and cover letter demonstrating your relevant experience and why you would like to get involved with our charity. Unfortunately, we won't accept applications without a cover letter stating why you wish to volunteer with us. 

Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application.

Interviews will be scheduled as the applications come in.

Thank you!