Evening volunteer roles in harlow, essex

We are currently recruiting volunteers to support our Mental Health services, which include group co-facilitators, initial appointment hosts, activity facilitators, mental health plan facilitators.

HeadsOut is a strengths-based crisis prevention, intervention and wellbeing LGBT+ support service.

Our aim is to enhance people’s wellbeing and functioning by focusing on their strengths and resources, reinforcing resilience and enhancing protective external factors, including creating safe spaces, community connection, a sense of belonging, empowerment and affirmation. 

By joining the HeadsOut Team you will:

• Support people who experience mental distress
• Make a positive contribution to the LGBT+ community
• Be given relevant training and support 

Our services are delivered on various days and times across the week and weekends, plus during the day and evenings, so there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. 

Respecting diversity, understanding and upholding professional boundaries and confidentiality are of course fundamental to all of our work and you will be required support this. 

All our volunteer facilitators must positively identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/ or trans (Schedule 9, Part 1, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010 applies).

The International Academy of Secrets Wisdom welcomes volunteers to contribute to its educational and administrative activities.
Even if you have no prior experience, you are welcome to join under direct supervision by experienced staff to ensure quality and skill development.

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### Personal Information
- Full Name
- Email Address
- Phone Number
- Country / City
- Age
- Primary Language (Arabic / English)

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### Available Volunteering Fields (choose one or more)
- Human Resources (HR)
- Executive Assistant to CEO
- Trainer
- Marketer
- Sales Team
- Zoom Room Supervisor
- Content Writer
- Podcast Host
- Accountant
- Business Manager
- Fundraising Campaign Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Certificates Officer
- Arabic–English Translator
- Lawyer (preferably specialized in corporate law, based in the UK)

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### Benefits
- Experience certificate in the chosen field (minimum 7 months of volunteering required).
- Opportunity to obtain a paid contract after the volunteering period, as the academy grows.
- Work will be online (remote).

We are a dynamic charity, focused on helping survivors of modern slavery rebuild their lives and achieve sustainable freedom by providing invaluable training, coaching, work experience and advocacy across the UK. It is now two years since we launched a new strategy from which we have increased our impact whilst strengthening and broadening our services for survivors of modern slavery. In these challenging times it is even more important that we continue to be bold, resilient and effective.   

We are looking to find up to 3 inspirational Trustees with experience in one of more of the following areas: 

• Legal (employment, contract, and charity law)   
• Development/Fundraising (significant networks amongst corporate partners or major and mid-level donors) 
• Policy/Advocacy or Public Affairs (with an understanding of the Modern Slavery or adjacent human rights topics) 

As a trustee of the Sophie Hayes Foundation, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and ensure that we continue to support and advocate for survivors of modern slavery.   

Trustee Role & Responsibilities

The people that we work with come from all over the world and have a wide variety of beliefs, experiences and backgrounds. We are committed to sharing in and reflecting this rich diversity amongst our staff, volunteers and trustees and would strongly encourage applicants from minority and under-represented groups, and from those with lived experience. We are committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are.     

Responsibilities

As a trustee of SHF, you will work collectively with fellow board members to provide effective governance, oversight and strategic support. Your core duties will include:   

1.Upholding SHF’s Mission and Values

• Support and advise on SHF’s purpose, vision, goals and charitable objects.
• Act at all times in the best interests of survivors and SHF’s mission.
• Promote SHF’s values, including survivor-centred practice, inclusion and safeguarding.

2. Governance, Compliance and Ethical Oversight

• Ensure SHF complies with its constitution, charity law and relevant regulations. 
• Ensure resources are used responsibly and exclusively to further SHF’s charitable purposes.
• Maintain high standards of integrity, including declaring and managing conflicts of interest.  
• Support effective governance structures, including participation in learningfocused reviews.

3. Financial Stewardship and Risk Management

• Oversee the charity’s financial health, ensuring sustainability and protection of assets.
• Monitor financial performance, risks and internal controls.
• Contribute to board-level scrutiny of finance and risk, supporting informed decision-making.

4. Strategic Support and Constructive Challenge

• Provide strategic guidance and support to the Executive, helping to shape direction, priorities and performance.
• Contribute to discussions on strategy, planning and organisational development.
• Offer constructive challenge in line with SHF’s values and governance expectations.

5. Safeguarding, Culture and Psychological Safety

• Promote a safe, transparent and inclusive organisational culture.
• Support safeguarding responsibilities, ensuring staff, volunteers and people with lived experience feel safe to raise concerns.

6. Board Participation and Collaboration

• Use your skills, experience and networks to strengthen the Board’s effectiveness.
• Prepare for, attend and actively contribute to Board and relevant committee meetings.
• Work collaboratively and respectfully with other trustees, the Chair and the Executive.

7. Advocacy and External Engagement

• Act as an ambassador for SHF, promoting our work and raising our profile.
• Advocate for survivors of modern slavery and support SHF’s influence, partnerships and fundraising efforts.

Specialist Responsibilities

We are seeking up to 3 trustees who can bring specialist expertise in one or more of the following areas, complementing the skills of the Chair and wider Board:

Legal

• Experience in employment, contract, charity or human rights law.
• Ability to advise on legal risk, governance obligations and regulatory duties.

Development / Fundraising

• Strong personal or professional networks with potential corporate, philanthropic or major donors.
• Ability to open doors, strengthen partnerships and support revenue generation.

Policy, Advocacy & Public Affairs

• Understanding of modern slavery or adjacent human rights issues.
• Ability to support SHF’s policy development, influencing work and external relationships. 

elop runs a programme of weekly and monthly LGBTQ+ social, support and wellbeing clubs, groups, meet-ups and events; provided by and for LGBTQ+ communities.

Joining our LGBTQ+ volunteer facilitator team you will be part of an enthusiastic and dedicated team who value & appreciate the benefit of face-to-face socialising & networking, supporting LGBT people to come together in a welcoming, safe and supportive environment with opportunities to meet new people, form new friendships, gain peer support and much more. 

Each of elop’s dedicated clubs, groups or meet-ups run planned activities that supports shared interaction, positive LGBTQ+ identities and a feeling of being valued.

Volunteering in this role will give you opportunities to contribute & support the planning & promotion of group programmes, help in organising & facilitating sessions, along with supporting & enabling the involvement, voice & inclusion of all members attending, ensuring a welcome, supported, safe and comfortable environment for all.

Our clubs, groups, meet-ups and activities are delivered on various days and times across the week and weekends, plus during the day and evenings, so there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. 

You may already have some previous experience of activity facilitation, which is fantastic; however it isn’t necessary to come with all the skills & experiences already on board, just a friendly or outgoing personality with good communication abilities, the rest you’ll be supported to develop. 

Respecting diversity, understanding and upholding professional boundaries and confidentiality are of course fundamental to all of our work and you will be required support this. 

What you can expect as part of Team elop is to feel proud of being part of our dynamic team & volunteer community, to develop confidence, have enjoyment and know your contribution really does make a difference.

We know life can be busy, but ask all group volunteers to make a 6 month minimum commitment or around 2-3 hours a week average. 

All our volunteer facilitators must positively identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/ or trans (Schedule 9, Part 1, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010 applies).

Location: Shepherd’s Bush, West London

Time Commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month (including quarterly board meetings and annual Away Day)

Type: Voluntary

Start Date: Early 2026

Join a unique West London charity creating lasting change in people’s lives

The Upper Room is seeking a Chair of Trustees (Designate) to join our Board in 2025/26 and, after a year of active trusteeship and shadowing, to step into the role of Chair when our current Chair reaches the end of their tenure in 2027.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate, values-led individual to help shape the next phase of our work, from strategic resilience to community innovation.

About Us

From small beginnings more than 35 years ago The Upper Room has grown into a thriving charity with an annual budget of around £650K.

Food provision has always been at the heart of what we do. UR4Meals serves approximately 40,000 meals a year, operating five days a week.

UR4Driving works with ex-offenders and young people identified as at risk of offending. We help them pass their driving theory test, and then provide free driving lessons. Last year 37 students gained a full driving licence with us. This has a significant impact on their employability and self-esteem, and dramatically reduces re-offending.

UR4Jobs helps people become work-ready, and supports their wellbeing.

We are still based in our original home at St Saviour’s Church near Shepherd’s Bush in west London.

About the Role

As Chair, you’ll lead a committed and skilled Board of Trustees, working closely with our CEO and senior team to guide strategy, ensure good governance and champion our impact.

You’ll also play a key role externally, acting as an ambassador to funders, partners and supporters.

We’re looking for someone who can

• Provide strategic leadership through a period of growth and innovation
• Foster a culture of inclusion and respect, both on the Board and across the organisation - Support and challenge the CEO, acting as a critical friend and sounding board
• Ensure excellent governance, compliance and risk management
• Represent the charity publicly, building relationships and influence

About You

We welcome candidates with prior Board experience as a Trustee, Chair or Non-Executive Director, and a strong commitment to social justice.

We especially encourage applications from those with lived experience of disadvantage, as well as those from under-represented backgrounds, including individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

We’re interested in candidates with

• A clear understanding of charity governance and the role of a Chair
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A collaborative, values-driven approach
• The time, energy and commitment to make a lasting difference

Additional experience in fundraising, partnerships, organisational development or public sector engagement would be welcome, though not essential.

Time Commitment

• As a Trustee in 2025/ 26 (approx. 1–2 days per month)
• Transition to Chair in 2027, subject to mutual agreement and Board approval
• Quarterly evening Board meetings (in person in London)
• Annual summer Away Day with staff and trustees
• Optional involvement in sub-committees or events depending on interest and availability
• Representing the charity at local events

Why Now

By inviting a prospective Chair to join our Board as a Trustee in 2025/26, we can ensure a smooth, informed transition, with the support and handover of our current Chair, and plenty of time for deep onboarding and relationship-building.

The new Chair will help consolidate our growth, and lead our Board through the next chapter, ensuring our mission continues to serve those who need us most in the years ahead.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest and suitability to the Upper Room.

If you would like to have an informal conversation before applying, feel free to reach out via email to arrange a call.

Because we are planning for the long term we are not placing a deadline on this process. However, we aim to appoint in the first quarter of 2026.

Interviews will be held in two stages, including an in-person meeting with key Board and staff members.

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

Time Commitment & Work Schedule:

• First Month:

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

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

• Ongoing (After Month 1):

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

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

• Additional Requirements:

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

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

About the Role:

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

Key Responsibilities:

General Responsibilities

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

• Coordinate and chair weekly Tuesday evening meetings

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

• Report regularly to the leadership team

• Collaborate across departments to align project goals and resource needs

On-Site Responsibilities During Jumping Beans Sessions:

1. Staff & Volunteer Coordination

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

• Ensure child-to-staff ratios are maintained

• Manage volunteer and staff attendance

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

2. Activity Oversight

• Ensure activities run on schedule and engage children effectively

• Troubleshoot or adapt plans as needed

• Confirm all materials and equipment are prepared

3. Child Safety & Welfare

• Oversee child sign-in/sign-out

• Monitor for safeguarding issues and respond appropriately

• Manage minor incidents and maintain accurate records

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

4. Communication

• Welcome and update parents, address any concerns

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

• Escalate significant issues to senior leadership

5. Logistics & Administration

• Manage session supplies and resources

• Track attendance, consent forms, and incident logs

• Ensure awareness of allergies and special requirements

• Uphold all safeguarding, emergency, and first aid policies

6. Evaluation & Reporting

• Take note of successes and areas for improvement

• Gather informal feedback from children, parents, and staff

• Report session outcomes to leadership

Qualifications & Experience:

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

• Excellent organisational, communication, and time management skills

• Creative thinker with strong problem-solving abilities

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

Benefits & Impact:

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

• Gain valuable experience in project and team management

• Be part of a passionate, values-driven team

• Expand your network through connections with community leaders

• Personal and professional growth through hands-on leadership

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

Are you passionate about the world of gaming? STAMMA’s Minecraft club is a project which aims to bring young people aged 7-14 who stammer together through the exciting world of Minecraft! Our club plays in a private virtual realm where we can build exciting creations and collaborate on imaginative group projects. And you can be part of it too!

We know that the world can feel like a lonely place for young people who stammer. We want to help people connect and show them how great being part of the stammering community can be.

We’re looking for people to join us to be Minecraft session leaders. We’ll support you to lead short 1-hour ‘play together’ sessions in our virtual world 2x a month on a Tuesday or Thursday evening 6-7pm.

Please note that this volunteer role is only open to people who are resident in the UK.

Basic information

Hours: 3 hours a month plus one quarterly catch-up session on Zoom (amounts to 2 sessions a month of 1.5 hours)

Day and time: A regular slot on either Monday/Thursdays 5.45-7.15pm (session runs 6-7pm)

Commitment: We hope that you will enjoy this role and commit at least 12 months to the position

Location: Home-based

Supported by: Catherine Woolley (Children and Families Lead)

What does the role involve?

As a Minecraft Session leader, we’re hoping you’ll feel comfortable to:

•  Run a ‘play together’ session for young people who stammer either on your own or with another session leader. Sessions are usually run by two volunteers working in partnership.
• Help to keep our Minecraft realm a friendly space for everyone.
•  Support new players, such as showing them around the world, introducing them to other players and answering any questions they have.
• Helping families to set up Minecraft on their device and access the session for the first time.

What support would you get?

We'll help you through a training programme, which will include online training modules and some shadowing. This training is likely to take around 5-6 hours in total and can be completed in bite-sized amounts to suit your schedule. We will also provide ongoing support through our quarterly catch up sessions for Minecraft session volunteers to share experiences and explore any concerns or challenges.

What would you need?

• A quiet place where you can work in privacy and not be overheard during calls
• A console/computer with Minecraft installed
• A second device where you can take part in a Zoom call
• Stable internet connection which supports gaming

Who might enjoy this volunteer role?

You’re likely to enjoy volunteering with our Minecraft groups if you:

• Are experienced at playing Minecraft.
• Enjoy listening and talking to young people.
• Have a genuine curiosity about people and their experiences.
• Are passionate about making the world a better place for people who stammer.

It’s not essential to stammer if you are interested in volunteering with us, but you may particularly enjoy this role if you do. Your personal experience of stammering can be very useful!

Other Information

As a volunteer you can, of course, step back from the role at any time. However, both you and the Minecraft club are likely to get most out of the opportunity if you’re able to volunteer with us for at least 12 months. By gradually learning and developing your confidence in the role, you can have the biggest impact.

This is a volunteer role and is unpaid. As this is a role where you will be working with children and young people, we will need you to complete a DBS check with us before you can lead any sessions on your own.

Contact & apply

To express an interest in volunteering on the STAMMA's Minecraft Club, or if you have any questions, please complete the volunteer form on our website.

Help shape a fair, bold solution to the climate crisis. Work with us to turn personal carbon reduction into effective climate action with our ground-breaking approach. Our vision is for a world in control of CO₂ emissions - a fair social and economic approach that motivates and supports people and organisations to reduce their carbon footprints.

Our ultimate mission is to persuade people, business and government that together, we can take meaningful action using our Carbon Accounts framework. We are already demonstrating how this would work on the ground in our grassroots community action group. We believe we can use this to inspire people and businesses and ultimately government to introduce the same mechanism to reach science-based emission reduction targets on a national basis.

What will you be doing?

We are currently completely volunteer-led, agile, pragmatic and ambitious. We would like to build up our trustee board with trustees who are keen to help drive EcoCounts forward through active involvement in what is an exciting time to get involved.

Our goal for the next 12 months is:

• to continue building our local group of activists from all sections of society who monitor their carbon and ecological footprints

• to run a crowd-funder in spring 2026

• to create a carbon footprint app to fulfil our requirements

• to extend our audience in the media and social media

• to build relationships and new, innovative ways of collaborating with local businesses and local government

• to create a blueprint which can be adopted in other locations

We want to spread the movement far and wide, to promote public, business, academic and political acceptance of carbon budgets, carbon trading and our Carbon Accounts approach by demonstrating how and why the concepts work and represent a potentially break-through approach to the climate crisis.

What are we looking for?

We’re looking for someone to jump right in with our small and dynamic team to provide guidance, energy and insight to help us develop. We’re looking to fill two distinct trustee roles: governance lead and fundraising lead. When applying, please let us know which you interests you.

Governance Lead

Do you have experience with:

• charity governance

• policy creation and management

• strategy development combining marketing, fundraising, volunteer management and finance & business planning

Fundraising Lead

• significant fundraising experience in either grant applications, online subscriptions, crowdfunders, corporate giving or philanthropy from high net worth individuals

• working with volunteer fundraisers to help build or even lead the team, monitor progress, coach or mentor where necessary

• enthusiasm to get stuck into the work yourself

• all-round awareness of business plans, marketing campaigns and volunteer management, to be able to contribute to strategy and direction

In Both

• you’ll need an awareness of the serious nature of the crisis and the need for radical action by governments, i.e. a strong desire to see society make an urgent response to climate change

• ability to work online, in person, in different environments with different types of people

• consistency and good communication on instant messaging channels, emails and other

• co-operative nature and appreciation for exchange of ideas, flexibility and openness to feedback

• ability to understand our Carbon Accounts concept, which is not difficult but does have extensive impacts

• free some Monday evenings for our in-person meetings

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

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

What you’ll be doing:

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

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

Can I foster a dog?

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

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

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

What you’ll get:

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

Training and support

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

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

Minimum age for volunteer is 18.

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

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

We are a dynamic charity, focused on helping survivors of modern slavery rebuild their lives and achieve sustainable freedom by providing invaluable training, coaching, work experience and advocacy across the UK.   It is now two years since we launched a new strategy from which we have increased our impact whilst strengthening and broadening our services for survivors of modern slavery.  In these challenging times it is even more important that we continue to be bold, resilient and effective.  We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees who has the vision, passion and expertise to collaboratively lead the organisation during this exciting period.   The Chair together with the trustees will work to ensure effective governance and provide guidance and support to the executive to ensure that we continue to support and advocate for survivors of modern slavery.

Chair Role & Responsibilities

SHF aims to work in a proactive and collaborative manner, and the Chair will play an important part in setting the tone and bringing all the stakeholders together.  We are looking for someone who has considerable experience of leadership at an executive or board level in the charity or corporate sector and has an understanding of the modern slavery sector.   

The people that we work with come from all over the world and have a wide variety of beliefs, experiences and backgrounds. We are committed to sharing in and reflecting this rich diversity amongst our staff, volunteers and trustees and would strongly encourage applicants from minority and under-represented groups, and from those with lived experience. We are committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are.   

Governance and Culture

• Provide leadership and oversight to the board and executive team on strategy, governance and risk, ensuring that we meet our obligations and responsibilities, including but not limited to governance structures, financial responsibilities, ethos and charity law.
• Ensure that the charity is acting in accordance with its constitution and uses its resources responsibly and exclusively to further its charity objects.
• Support the strengthening of accountable and effective practice within the charity’s governance, helping to cultivate clear commitments, regular learningSustainable freedom from modern slavery 6 focused reviews, and a transparent understanding of impact against strategic priorities. 
• Ensure effective scrutiny of finance at board level and that the charity is financially sustainable.

Board Effectiveness

• Facilitate and guide conversations in a way that enables constructive discussion, draws out diverse perspectives and supports informed, shared decision-making. 
• Encourage full participation from all trustees, recognising and valuing different skills, identities and lived experiences.
• Work with the Chief Executive and committee Chairs to ensure that board meetings are well planned with agendas that reflect the priorities of SHF and the responsibilities of the trustees.
• Meet as appropriate with the treasurer and Chairs of any board committees. 
• Build strong, respectful working relationships between trustees, addressing challenges or conflict with openness and fairness.
• Model and promote a positive and collaborative board culture based on mutual respect rooted in SHF’s values and an appropriate balance of support and challenge

Advocacy and Strategic Development

• Work with the CEO and trustees to strengthen understanding of modern slavery issues, build recognition of the impact of our programmes and influence key decision makers.
• Support the CEO when required to strengthen SHF’s advocacy impact.
• Ensure our strategy is ambitious and financially sustainable and that risks are identified and effectively managed by the executive.
• Bring strategic and planning expertise to the process of ongoing evaluation and refreshment of the strategy.

Development/Fundraising: 

• Act as an ambassador for SHF by raising its profile through your networks.
• Build, maintain and develop partnerships which reflect our values and directly benefit our mission. 
• Play an active role in supporting the executive to reach its revenue goals.

CEO Mentor and Constructive Friend to the Managing Executive

• Provide a supportive, confidential space for the CEO as a sounding board and constructive friend. 
• Build a strong working relationship with the CEO to maintain an overview of SHF’s affairs, to support as necessary the management of sensitive, complex or contentious issues and, where appropriate, provide constructive challenge to the CEO.
• Build a strong working relationship with the executive, offering constructive advice and support whilst maintaining the boundary between the operational decisionmaking of the executive and governance oversight of the Board.
• Lead the annual appraisal for the CEO in line with SHF’s appraisal process and in consultation with other trustees.  Ensure that any identified professional development needs are put in place.

Safeguarding Ensure that:

• A Safeguarding Policy and Procedure is in place, is reviewed as least annually and is available to and understood/applied by staff.
• A culture of safeguarding is championed, where wellbeing and psychological safety is prioritised and staff, volunteers and people with lived experience can raise concerns without fear of judgement or reprisal.
• There is a staff Code of Conduct and policies such as Speaking Out (formally Whistleblowing) and Safer Recruitment are in place.
• Safeguarding concerns are managed effectively; there are systems in place for its management; safeguarding resources including training; a DSL is appointed whose role is stated in their job description.
• Regular feedback on safeguarding activity is received (such as gaps, threats, risks), oversee a risk register and the remedial actions required and the track progress.
• Chair of Trustees undertakes enquiries in the event of an allegation being made against the CEO  
• Compliance with the Charity Commission serious incident notification requirements, and other bodies such as regulators, commissioners, grant makers, and insurance companies 

We believe in the power of holidays to transform lives. Time away matters. For many families facing tough times -whether through financial hardship, illness or other challenges - a short break can feel out of reach. Yet, these moments of escape and connection are vital for well-being, resilience, and hope.

Our mission is simple but powerful: to provide families who wouldn’t otherwise get a break with the chance to spend quality time together, make memories, and return home stronger. 

As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in shaping our future. You’ll help guide our strategy, ensure we remain true to our values, and support us in reaching even more families who need our help. Your expertise, insight, and passion can help us grow and innovate, so that no family is left behind when it comes to the simple joy of time away together.

About our Trustee Team

Our Trustees are a team of volunteers who use their diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives to set the strategic direction of the charity and make sure it’s doing what it was set up to do in the best possible way.

Family Holiday Charity has an ambitious strategy over the next few years, which will see us expand our services to families, develop our influencing work within the travel and leisure industry and government, and evolve our ways of working so that we can accept and use gifted breaks, travel and other services at scale to give families who really need it a holiday.

To help us do all that we’ll need the guidance, challenge, connections, and support of all our Trustees.
Given our goals, we’re particularly looking to add the following professional skills and experiences to our team.

• Legal Expertise - Our Trustees have a duty to ensure the charity operates within the law and complies with regulatory responsibilities, including charity law, safeguarding and governance requirements. This may involve providing advice on legal risks and obligations, ensuring compliance with articles of association and relevant legislation, supporting decisions on contracts, partnerships, risk management and more.
• Family Charity leadership - the Charity's vision if that 'every family in the UK should have a holiday' and this bold statement reflects our belief that time away together is not a luxury but a lifeline. We're seeking experience from a family support base to help advocate for our beneficiaries needs and help us expand our reach.
• Influencing / Campaigning - We are seeking experience and ambition that will help us influence policy and industry practices through the development of relatinships with policymakers, travel and tourism industry and media etc. Also shape campaigns, raise awareness, drive systemic change and support advocacy strategies to remove barriers for families. 
• Digital Transformation - We wish to evolve and develop our digital strategy and technology adoption. A key priority is to ensure our digital growth is considered and aligns with accessibility and security.

Your Skills and Contribution

You'll need: 

• Strategic vision, independent judgement, and an ability to think creatively.
• A proactive attitude, willing to bring new ideas and perspectives to our Board, and confident about challenging decisions, where necessary, in the best interests of the charity.
• Willingness to understand and take on the duties and responsibilities of trusteeship.
• Commitment to the charity and our mission, and the ability to devote the necessary time and effort to do the role well.

The Commitment 

We’ll ask you to participate in four two-hour Board Meetings per year, typically in person at our office in London or remotely.We also get together for a Strategy Day in September/October, which is held on a weekday in London, and you’d need to attend that in person.

We can support with any access needs for in-person meetings.,

There are two Board sub-committees- one which focuses on our Finances and Risk, and one which considers our people (Trustees and Staff). Once you’ve settled into the role, most Trustees join one of them. They meet remotely around four  times a year.

Outside of formal meetings, you’ll be warmly encouraged to get to know the staff team, and attend fundraising events 
or other events to meet referrers, families, and supporters wherever possible.

Overall, you’ll need to be able to commit around 6 hours each month for a mix of meetings and events, contributing
your skills and perspective to projects, building your knowledge of the charity and developing as a Trustee.

See the trustee pack for more information and for the application and interview process - click apply to see this. Please note the deadline has been extended to midnight on Sunday 4th January 2026 to ensure the professionals skills and areas of experience (as listed above) are captured.

Volunteer Graphic Designer – Share Your Heart of Gold with SUNSHINE

Loneliness is one of the fastest-growing epidemics of our time. Across London, thousands of people feel isolated and disconnected. At SUNSHINE, we believe no one should feel alone. Our mission is to bring sunshine into people’s lives through grassroots, community-led programmes that spark joy, foster friendships, and transform lives.

To help us shine even brighter, we are looking for a Graphic Designer with a Heart of Gold to create uplifting, vibrant designs that inspire, empower, and connect.

Why This Role Matters

Visuals are the heartbeat of SUNSHINE. They carry our message of joy, dignity, and community spirit into the world. As our Graphic Designer, you will help us:

• Promote our programmes so more people can join and feel connected.

• Celebrate our volunteers and supporters with designs that radiate gratitude and pride.

• Inspire funders and partners with professional, emotionally resonant materials.

• Spread sunshine across London through vibrant, positive imagery.

What You’ll Create

We’re especially looking for support with these initial designs:

1. Roller Banners – to take to events and showcase SUNSHINE.

2. Social Media Posts – promoting SUNSHINE, our programmes, our volunteer opportunities, and fundraising needs.

3. Business Stationery – letterhead, compliment slip, business cards, appointment card.

4. Leaflet (business card size) – a pocket-sized introduction to SUNSHINE.

5. Info and Motion Graphics – to promote SUNSHINE, tell our story and explain our impact in engaging ways.

6. Brochures – highlighting our mission, programmes, and community stories.

7. Fundraising Drive Promotionals – vibrant campaigns to inspire giving.

Who We’re Looking For

• A creative soul with a Heart of Gold who loves designing positive, uplifting visuals.

• Someone with skills in digital and/or print design (motion graphics a bonus!).

• A volunteer who believes in the power of design to inspire change and foster community.

• Passion for social impact and a desire to help tackle loneliness in London.

Join Us

At SUNSHINE, every design you create will help bring joy, connection, and hope to people who need it most. Your creativity will not just make things look beautiful, it will transform lives by spreading sunshine across our community.

Step forward. Shine bright. Share your Heart of Gold. Because when you give your creativity, you’re not just designing—you’re bringing sunshine into people’s lives.

SUNSHINE

Loneliness Charity in London

Can you help us by providing a calm, safe, and caring environment for our small furries whilst we find them their fur-ever home?

Often when we think about animal fostering, cats, and dogs spring to mind, but have you ever thought about fostering our smaller animals? The RSPCA received more than 5,000 reports last year about rabbits and other small furries relating to neglect or abandonment and rescued an average of 340 small furries a month! To help us with the rehoming of these small animals, we are actively looking to add to our fantastic team of volunteer fosterers.

As a small animal fosterer, you would play an essential role in providing the animals in our care with a temporary home whilst they are being rehomed. Like us, even small furries have specific needs and requirements, but rest assured, once we have guided you through the fostering process the animal centre will ensure that you have all the necessary guidance, equipment, food, and veterinary care.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Provide them with care, safe suitable housing, and space for playtime, as outlined in our policies and guidelines.

• Ensure that they are groomed if appropriate and fed and watered.

• Provide them with suitable and clean bedding to keep them cosy.

• Give them lots of attention and plenty of cuddles as they are very sociable animals.

What We’re Looking For:

• Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience of caring for animals.

• Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

• For their wellbeing, our small furries may need to be fostered in pairs, so please bear this in mind.

• Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they cannot be so, please let us know if this is the case).

• You should be located in South Buckinghamshire or within a reasonable distance.

What’s in It for You?

• You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the small animals in your care.

• Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.

• Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.

• Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

• The RSPCA is happy to reimburse you for any pre-agreed expenses that you may incur through volunteering for us.

Practical Considerations:

• Health & Safety: You’ll need to complete a simple online Health & Safety course before starting the role.

Disclaimer:

Our voluntary roles are subject to:

• An informal interview and trial period.

• Submission of two referees’ contact details.

• Completion of relevant training and assessments for the role.

As a Volunteer Services Lead, you would work with and support the Lead Volunteer Coordinator in recruiting and placing volunteers. You would help the Lead Volunteer Coordinator manage and motivate the team of volunteers and ensure that the required resources to the team.

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

Alongside the Lead Volunteer Services Coordinator:

• Develop and implement an effective and welcoming induction program for new volunteers to the branch.
• Keep an up-to-date list of volunteering opportunities within the branch.
• Working with the centre manager, supervisors, retail managers and Trustees to arrange the recruitment and placement of volunteers.
• Matching what volunteers would like to do to help the centre with the Branches need for volunteer help.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

Above all, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare.

We are looking for someone with recruitment and people management experience, and it would be even better if some of that experience is in managing volunteers.

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

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – Volunteer Services

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