Family Activities Volunteer Volunteer Roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
As the Head of Family and Youth, you will oversee the planning, coordination, and delivery of activities for children, youth and families at Pride Cymru events. You will be an essential part of creating a welcoming and safe space for families to participate in Pride Cymru.
Duties and responsibilities:
-
Build and maintain strong relationships with community organisations, schools, youth groups, and family support networks to enhance collaboration and outreach efforts.
-
Develop new partnership opportunities and support positive partnership working
-
Oversee the planning and execution of family-friendly activities and youth-focused events during Pride Cymru festivals and other community gatherings.
-
Ensure that events are accessible, inclusive, and engaging for participants of all ages.
Skills and experience
Due to the nature of this role, the successful candidate must hold a valid DBS with the DBS Update Service before conducting any work with Pride Cymru.
-
Enthusiasm for creating a family-friendly environment within the LGBTQ+ community.
-
Previous experience working with children, youth, and families in a community-based or nonprofit setting, with a focus on LGBTQ+ issues and advocacy.
-
Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate staff, volunteers, and community members.
-
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
About you
-
A genuine desire to support the LGBTQ+ community in Wales
-
Commitment to upholding and promoting values of equality, diversity and inclusion
-
Ensure work is completed to a high professional standard and in accordance with relevant policies and procedures.
-
Attend appropriate meetings/events
-
Represent the organisational ethos and values
-
Carry out any other reasonable duties as the role develops and as may be requested by the management/trustees
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Family Lives was formed over forty years ago by volunteers with the aim of ensuring that all parents had somewhere to turn before they reach crisis point.
Remote Family Support Volunteer – Live Chat
We know that the right support at the right time makes all the difference. Family Lives provides targeted early intervention and crisis support to families who are struggling.
Organisational values:
Mission: We build better family lives together.
Vision: Families should have access to active support and understanding.
Values: Trustworthy, Compassionate and Collaborative
Purpose of the role: To be part of a flexible team providing empathic, caring and informed support to families, carers and others who use our services.
Live chat: is a free confidential service that is accessed via our website. Service users are offered emotional support, information and advice and guidance on a broad range of family issues.
Supervised by: The Shift Supervisor
Activities: The volunteer will be fully supervised, supported and trained to provide the following activities:
·Provide emotional support to family members via our live chat service
·Use the Family Lives support model and tools to provide an empathic responses
·Ensure that all service users receive a high quality experience
·Sign post users to other agencies for information and additional support
·Complete conversation data records
·Alert the shift supervisor to any difficult situations
General: Volunteers should be willing to:
·Attend the relevant volunteer training
·Maintain confidentiality and adhere to the other policies and procedures of the organisation
·Participate in regular support, supervision meetings and learning sessions as agreed
For home based volunteers only:
·Volunteers will need a Laptop/PC, plug in headset with microphone, fast broadband and a private place to work from home
·Volunteers need to be IT/PC literate and confident troubleshooting should they have technical difficulties
Time: We would be looking for volunteers to commit to one four-hour shift per week, plus attending training and supervision.
Location: working remotely from home
You need to be a UK resident
Supervision and Support:
·Supervision during shifts
·Debrief after every shift
·1 to 1 supervision every 6 months
·Staff available outside of shift within office hours
·Annual review
The Benefits of Volunteering:
·Satisfaction in making a real and lasting difference to families who are struggling
·An opportunity to develop experience for CV and references. Family Lives is committed to helping volunteers develop their own learning and development, gaining new skills, knowledge or work experience
·Being part of a team of Family Lives volunteers and staff
·Personal development
·Opportunities to meet and interact with a wide range of people
·Out of pocket expenses reimbursed to a maximum of £10 per session if working from a centre
·Flexible hours
Volunteer Person Specification. We are looking for individuals who:
·Have experience of parenting/being in a parenting role or demonstrable experience of working with parents or children e.g. in their work, previous volunteering or a previous role
·Have an ability to respond empathically to emotional content
·Good written and verbal communication
·Have good keyboard skills and IT skills, with a minimum of 50 wpm
·Can demonstrate a willingness to question their own attitudes e.g. toward different forms of parenting
·Have a fluent, descriptive and expressive use of English
·Can remain open minded and non-judgemental
·Willing to commit to work within Family Lives’ policies, in particular our Confidentiality Policy and Risk of Harm Procedures
·Willing to commit to attending regular supervision and support sessions
·Willing to work as part of a team
·Willing to commit to a mutually agreed period or ideally a 12 months commitment to the organisation.
Typing Task Prior to Application for Live Chat
Prior to you submitting your application for a Live Chat Volunteer, we will require you to do a speed test, we ask for a minimum speed of 50 words per minute.
Please take a screen shot and send it across with your application
You can have up to 3 attempts and decide which result you would like to forward as part of your application
Typing task
Go to the website typingtest
You are required to take the one minute typing test recording all of the results (speed, number of errors and adjusted speed).
We have remote voluntary call taker training groups the dates are below are you would need to be able to attend all 5 Modules from the training group.
Our next training groups are:
June Saturday training dates:
Module 1 – Saturday 8th June
Module 2 - Saturday 15th June
Module 3 – Saturday 22nd June
Module 4 – Saturday 29th June
Module 5 – Saturday 6th July
10am to 2pm
OR
June training dates:
Module 1 – Monday 10th June
Module 2 – Wednesday 12th June
Module 3 – Monday 17th June
Module 4 – Wednesday 19th June
Module 5 – Monday 24th June
10am to 2pm
Please note that all roles offered are subject to a satisfactory DBS being obtained, you will receive details of documentation required prior to your training and this must all be in no later than the second session of your training.
Typing Task Prior to Application for Live Chat
Prior to you submitting your application for a Live Chat Volunteer, we will require you to do a speed test, we ask for a minimum speed of 50 words per minute.
Please take a screen shot and send it across with your application
You can have up to 3 attempts and decide which result you would like to forward as part of your application
Typing task
Go to the website typingtest
You are required to take the one minute typing test recording all of the results (speed, number of errors and adjusted speed).
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About CARAS:
CARAS is a leading refugee charity in Southwest London, providing firm foundations for new-arrival asylum seekers to build happy and successful lives. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives.
We provide person-centred educational, social and casework support to over 600 young people and adults across South London each year, recognising the moment of arrival as one of opportunity. Our work provides individuals with essential support to build language and employability skills, develop social networks and friendships, and access essential services such as legal and mental health services. Our work has multi-generational impact, providing forced migrants with early interventions to support language and skill acquisition, tackling the root causes of socio-economic marginalisation by supporting social inclusion and future labour market access.
Volunteering with CARAS – our Community of Welcome:
CARAS has a proud history of volunteers helping us deliver our charitable aims. Volunteers are an essential part of the CARAS community, bringing skills, insights, experience, different languages, and enthusiasm to the roles. Community members tell us the welcome by volunteers is so important in an often hostile world. It helps them feel safe and wanted. Community is at the heart of all we do, and we could not deliver the projects we do without the enormous contribution that volunteers bring.
About CARAS Adult Programme:
Alongside educational and casework support, CARAS has a thriving social program of weekly activities, from women’s yoga, to creative coffee afternoons, sports sessions and workshops, designed and built in collaboration with our community, volunteers and local partners. Most people we work with in the adult team are waiting for a decision on their asylum claim, are accommodated in cramped and inadequate hotels contracted by the Home Office for up to – and sometimes more than – 2 years whilst they wait for a decision on their asylum claim. During this time, they are eligible for only £8.86 per week and are prohibited from working. This is an incredibly stressful and disempowering period for those seeking asylum. Against this backdrop, our social activities exist as spaces of welcome, for people to come and make meaningful connections, build confidence and importantly – have fun!
About the Trips and Holiday Activities Project:
Alongside our weekly timetable of term time activities, we run trips across London during the school holidays. These are always chosen and planned together with our community members, and so far have included trips to famous parks, museums, galleries, and the theatre. We know from our community members how important these trips are; they are a chance to explore parts of the city that would otherwise be inaccessible, and to feel more at home in the city. As one community member told us, ‘to discover new places…this makes us feel included’. They are an opportunity to learn something new with others, to meet new people, relax and have fun.
About the Role:
To support us with these trips and holiday activities, we are looking for friendly, welcoming, enthusiastic and proactive volunteers. You will support us practically to ensure the trips run smoothly and on time, but also will be an essential part of our community of welcome – to chat and get to know our community members, and make sure everyone feels included and is having a good time.
We intend to hold 2 trips in the Easter holidays, and up to 5 trips in the summer holidays. These will all be in locations across London, most likely during daytime hours. We will also run a combination of adult-only and child-friendly trips across the year – this is what our community have told us they want! We usually have a group of 10-20 community members and will always have at least one CARAS staff member present too.
Ideally, we are looking for volunteers who are flexible during school holidays and can attend at least 3 trips throughout the year, though we may consider those who might only be able to volunteer on a one-off basis.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
To attend CARAS trips as and when you are available to do so.
To support with the logistics of travelling to and from the trip location.
To keep an eye on the general health and wellbeing of our Community Members and report any concerns to the CARAS staff member present.
To encourage positive connections between people and the places we are visiting, opening up conversations to learn about each other.
On family-friendly trips, to assist where needed with the supervision of children present (alongside parents)
Requirements – Essential:
To be 18 years or older;
To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds;
To be reliable and punctual;
To be welcoming, friendly part of the group, and to make sure our community members have the best and most fruitful time possible at the locations we visit.
Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English;
Current resident of the UK;
Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check;
Able to complete compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding via 2 self-paced induction training webinars prior to the start of role;
Requirements – Desirable:
Knowledge of community languages, such as Farsi, Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Somali and Spanish.
Through volunteering with us you will gain:
An opportunity to connect with and learn from a vibrant and diverse community of people who are new to the city;
A chance to share your knowledge of the city and places of interest with our community;
A deeper understanding of the experiences, challenges, and strengths of those seeking asylum here;
A deeper understanding of language-inclusive practices in multi-lingual groups;
Develop your skills and competencies;
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Candlelighters offer a variety of support groups and events for families affected by childhood cancer. We’re looking for a friendly and attentive volunteer to help the Family Support Team to set up and manage each event to ensure it runs smoothly and successfully for families.
Location
Across Yorkshire (most groups are at The Square, 8 Woodhouse Square, Leeds, LS3 1AD)
Time commitment
Approximately five hours per month, depending on the number of events you sign up for.
Activities will vary but may include:
- Helping to set up prior to the event (arranging furniture, putting up decorations etc …)
- Putting out food and refreshments
- Meeting and greeting
- Keeping a record of attendance
- Making hot and cold drinks
- Cleaning and tidying up
- Serving lunches and refreshments
- Taking photos
- Organising or assisting with games and activities
- Engaging with family members and helping them to feel involved
- Supervising children
- Cleaning and tidying up at the end of the event
- Assisting the team with any other tasks and activities
We are looking for a volunteer who:
- Has experience of working with children or families in a professional context
- Has knowledge of safeguarding procedures and safer working practices
- Is confident, friendly and approachable
- Is experienced in working as part of a team
- Can work well and remain calm under pressure
- Is proactive and able to use own initiative
- Can move furniture (tables and chairs) and boxes
This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Support and Benefits
It’s vital that our volunteers feel rewarded for their amazing efforts so we want to match your goals, aspirations, availability and everything else with the right opportunity for you. Here are a few examples of what you will receive as a volunteer:
- Thorough induction & training to give you the confidence to perform your role well and to the best of your ability
- Opportunity to develop new and existing skills to help you beyond your involvement with Candlelighters
- Ongoing support from the Family Support and HR teams
- Certain expenses to be reimbursed as agreed with your Volunteer Supervisor, in accordance with our Expenses policy
- Regular reviews with your Volunteer Supervisor to help you develop in your role
- Satisfaction in knowing you are making a valuable contribution to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer
- We can be a reference once you’ve volunteered for three months
- Access to the mental health hotline
- Charity Worker Discount card
- Access to The Company Shop
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for active individuals that will engage with parents/carers at our Little Love baby bank in Southend, Your role will support this wonderiful iniaitive available to all families that have a child aged under 4 or who are expecting a baby and reaches the most vulnerable. Duties may require setting up and packing away and sorting of donations, depending on how many hours you can offer on a Thursday, supporting the YourFamily programme which is funded by A Better Start Southend.
City Family CIC will seek an Enhanced DBS check at no cost to the volunteer and will reimburse all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses such as public transport fares and car mileage. We ask that you reside no further than 10 miles from Southend. Full induction and training will be provided as well as ongoing support and development.
Your Family is a community-based programme combining peer volunteers and paid staff who provide support, connection and advice to early years families - connecting and enabling them to access local activities, support and clinical services.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Be rewarded and have new experiences, volunteer with us as a Child and Family Support Volunteer.
Key Details
- Based across South Lakeland, Cumbria.
- We are looking for a commitment of about half a day per week. Location, time and day will vary depending on current needs, and we can work with you to match you to appropriate opportunities.
- Currently, many of our groups run between 4-6pm on week days.
Can you:
- Provide motivational support, a listening ear, a friendly face, and a positive attitude to parents, carers, children and young people?
- Build trusting relationships, empathise, and communicate clearly?
- Be reliable?
- Be a positive role model?
- Be non-judgemental and respectful, while not accepting of behaviours that are damaging to others?
- Respect confidentiality?
- Work alongside staff to support families, based on individual need?
- Embody Action for Children’s values, and adhere to our code of conduct?
What you can expect:
- To work with families to support them to make and sustain positive changes through structured group programmes. An example is the very successful Decider Skills programme which teaches CBT techniques in an accessible and interactive way.
- To assist practitioners with running the group, providing a safe and nurturing space for families, and supporting all participants to engage in the activities.
- At times, we may have opportunities to play with children while their parents work with a practitioner on targeted support.
- To receive regular support and supervision from staff.
- To report any safeguarding or wellbeing concerns you may have as soon as possible.
What we can offer:
- Feel the satisfaction of supporting families to lead healthier, happier and safer lives.
- Full induction, training and support package. Ongoing training will be available to expand on your skills and knowledge.
- Gain valuable experience of working with children, young people and their families to provide early help and support.
- Be part of a fun and friendly team.
- Agreed travel expenses paid.
- Improve your confidence, CV, and employability. We can provide references to support your career development.
- Access to Action for Children's wellbeing resources.
- Feel recognised, supported and proud to donate your time and experience to help vulnerable children and young people.
If you would like an informal chat, have any further questions about the role, or need assistance with the application form, then please contact Kay Cheer on ( 015 39 734 456 )
Action for Children is passionate about promoting equality, valuing diversity and working inclusively. We welcome applications from all persons particularly those who identify as Male, people with Disabilities, and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic applicants, as these groups are currently under-represented in our organisation.
Action for Children are Passionate, Ambitious, Collaborative and Inclusive. We aspire for every child and young person in the country to have a safe and happy childhood and the foundations they need to thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Caudwell Children are looking for volunteers to help with our family workshops!
Caudwell Children offer a range of parent and family workshops that provide tips and strategies on many of the common difficulties associated with raising a child with disabilities or autism:
Meeting Sensory needs, Language and communication, forming relationships, supporting positive behaviour, Autism and well-being, Change and transition, Eating and nutrition, and Sleep.
Volunteer Responsibilities include:
- Processing applications completing a range of administration tasks such as data entry, emailing families, checking financial documentation, scanning.
- Preparing resource packs to be used during the workshops
- Responding to telephone enquiries and booking families on to workshops
- Researching and contacting organisations and networks whose beneficiaries may be interested in attending the workshops.
- ·Supporting staff with the delivery of the workshop sessions and activities, engaging with and supporting both the parents and the children who attend.
This role takes place on weekdays only between 9 till 5. We suggest a time commitment of 4 hours a week, with a minimum commitment of 6 months for this role – full training and support will be provided.
Over 18’s only can apply for this role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About We Are Family
We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years.
The Role
We Are Family is seeking to appoint a committed and motivated Treasurer who will work closely with the Board of Trustees and play an active part in the governance of the organisation’s finances.
This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses - such as travel / childcare - covered by We Are Family. The Company Secretary can be based anywhere in the UK.
Commitment
-
We Are Family typically holds four Board meetings per year
-
In addition to being involved in Board meetings, the Treasurer should expect to spend 8-10 hours each month on work related to the finances of the charity.
-
The normal term of appointment for a Treasurer is three years, after which there is the opportunity to renew for a further three-year period.
Skills and Experience
In this role you will:
-
Advise on the financial implications of We Are Family’s strategic plan.
-
Be an active member of the We Are Family Finance, Fundraising & Resources Committee who meet once every quarter.
-
Oversee presentation of budgets, internal management accounts and annual financial statements to the board of trustees.
-
Lead on the board’s duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.
-
Lead the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost management and investment policies.
-
Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity.
-
Oversee the implementation of and monitoring specific financial controls and adherence to systems.
-
Oversee the charity’s financial risk management process.
-
Review and approve payments (including payroll).
-
Be the main point of contact for We Are Family’s bank.
-
Act as a counter signatory on important applications to funders.
-
Liaise with the appropriate member of staff responsible for the financial activities of the organisation.
-
Liaise with the external auditors or independent examiner on specific issues such as the auditor’s or examiner’s management letter and the related board representations.
This role would suit an individual with:
-
Knowledge of charity governance and management
-
Experience in a compliance, risk or business management role
-
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
-
Organisation skills, with the ability to work to deadlines
-
Good IT skills, to include Zoom and Google Suite or MS Office.
Although many of our current Board members are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.
One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board.
To Apply
If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please send us a copy of your CV and we will contact you with our Recruitment Pack.
Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About We Are Family
We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years.
You can find out more about us here.
The Role
We are looking for new trustees to strengthen and enhance our board. The key responsibilities of the role include, governance, overseeing policy and direction, financial oversight and assisting with the leadership and general promotion of We Are Family to support the organisation’s Vision, Mission, Values and needs.
This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses - such as travel / childcare - covered by We Are Family. Trustees can be based anywhere in the UK.
Commitment
Trustee capacity to devote the time needed for the following is essential:
-
4 Board meetings per year
-
2 Board away days per year (on a Saturday)
-
Membership of at least one sub-committee (which also meet 4 times a year)
We estimate 8-10 hours for the charity per month. The duration of membership for a new Board member is for three years in the first instance, with the possibility of appointment for a further three year term.
Skills and Experience
All applicants should be able to demonstrate the following:
-
Be able to show high levels of professionalism and an ability to work collaboratively with others, including Trustees, our core team and the wider Volunteer network at We Are Family
-
Be well-organised, with good written and verbal communication skills.
-
Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds. A thorough induction, and further trustee training as appropriate, can be provided.
We are particularly interested candidates with the following experience:
-
Working as a professional with or in the adoption sector,
-
Advocacy and/or research work;
-
Finance/charity finance
-
Leadership within a charity
-
Education
-
Legal.
Although many of our current trustees are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.
One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board.
To Apply
If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please get in touch!
Refer to our job ad for the Applications email address and email our team. If you would like an informal conversation about the opportunity, please let us know.
Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
This role involves working directly with children and their families. Group work volunteers will be part of a team supporting a lead worker to run the group. There is scope to develop leadership roles, should volunteers like to take this route.
The role includes building trusting relationships with children and their parents/carers and encouraging them to take part in activities. Volunteers will support children to explore their grief by supporting them to take part in activities themed around memories, feelings, coping strategies and support networks. The role will also include general tasks such as setting up, clearing up, and making refreshments.
This role is within a small team which consists of paid staff, volunteers and trustees all of whom are passionate about the work we do.
This is an exciting opportunity within an expanding charity. Volunteers should have an interest in working with children, young people and families within a group setting and have a deep empathy for the objectives of the charity. All volunteers are subject to an enhanced DBS check, at the expense of the charity. Reasonable out of pocket expenses can also be paid, for example travel costs. You will need to be at least 18 years old to carry out this role.
Hours required: Family group programme – for primary aged children and their parent(s)/guardian(s). This group uses games, craft and stories to explore grief. The programme is delivered in a number of ways. This includes –
1. Our 4 day programme which takes place over 4 Saturdays at our base Westlea Primary School, Swindon. The time for volunteers is 9am – 2pm on each Saturday. Our aim is to run this 2 – 3 times a year.
2. Our A Day to Remember programme is an intensive 1 day programme which is delivered in venues across Swindon and Wiltshire depending on the needs of our families. The time for volunteers is usually 9am – 4pm. Our aim is to run this 1 – 2 times a year.
In total we expect the commitment for a volunteer to be no more than 4 programmes a year, to include a mix of our 4 day and 1 day intensive programmes. The maximum is likely to be 16 sessions a year. Dates are circulated and volunteers are asked to commit to dates they can attend.
Wiltshire Treehouse is a small charity based in Swindon which supports bereaved children and young people. We provide a range of support services including advice and guidance to families and professionals, a family programme (for primary aged children and their parents/guardians), and a group for young people (11-18yrs old).
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About We Are Family
We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years.
The Role
We Are Family is seeking to appoint a committed and motivated Company Secretary who will work closely with the Board of Trustees and play an active part in the governance of the organisation.
This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses - such as travel / childcare - covered by We Are Family. The Company Secretary can be based anywhere in the UK.
Commitment
-
We Are Family typically holds four Board meetings per year
-
In addition to being involved in Board meetings, the Secretary should expect to spend 8-10 hours each month on work related to the governance of the charity.
-
The normal term of appointment for a Secretary is three years, after which there is the opportunity to renew for a further three-year period.
Skills and Experience
In this role you will:
-
Work directly with the Chair and Deputy Chair to organise and plan for regular Board meetings, producing agendas and a supporting pack of Board papers
-
Ensure minutes are taken at the Trustee Board meetings and circulated in a timely manner
-
Take an active role in the governance of the Charity, ensuring that the company complies with its governing document, Charity Law, Charity Commission, and other relevant legislation
-
Arrange for filings to be submitted to the Charity Commission in accordance with statutory deadlines
-
Liaise with Committee Chairs to collect and distribute Committee meeting notes to the Board of Trustees
-
Maintain and update statutory records including annual returns, report, and accounts, and changes to the trustee membership.
This role would suit an individual with:
-
Knowledge and experience of charity governance and management
-
Experience in a compliance, risk or business management role
-
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
-
Organisation skills, with the ability to work to deadlines
-
Good IT skills, to include Zoom and Google Suite or MS Office.
Although many of our current Board members are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.
One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board.
To Apply
If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please send us a copy of your CV and we will contact you with our Recruitment Pack.
Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Family Bereavement sessions - What we do
We run sessions for bereaved families, offering three different age groups which are tailored around different developmental needs for 4-7-, 8-12- and 13–18-year-olds.
These Family Bereavement sessions currently have four components:
- An assessment with an allocated support worker to provide information and assess eligibility.
- An online parent information session for parent/carers to provide guidance and support in preparation for attendance at the bereavement session and to answer any questions or concerns.
- A social activity for families to meet and engage prior to the bereavement session.
- One Saturday Family Bereavement Session bringing families together (typically from 9am-3.30pm). These sessions will mostly be delivered as a family, with an hour in the afternoon where children and parents meet separately.
The Family Bereavement Sessions currently take place in Reigate but could be run from other locations in our catchment area across Surrey, parts of West Sussex and Kent.
The Social Event will be at a convenient location for the participating families which will be agreed with them. This is usually held on a Tuesday or Wednesday after school for the 8-12 and 13-18 groups and on a Saturday for the 4–7-year-olds.
How we ask you to help with groups:
We ask that volunteers can commit to the following aspects of the family bereavement session delivery – online session, social activity and Family Bereavement Session.
During delivery, you will be required to assist the Support Workers in the delivery of the activities and to support the children, young people and parents/carers to engage. Various activities are run at the family bereavement sessions - such as making salt jars, memory boxes and other craft activities, etc.
Additionally, volunteers would be expected to serve teas and coffees, wash up and support the setting up and delivery of the activities.,
Social events- What we do
We provide different social events and activities throughout the year to help bring children and young people in a similar situation together. This helps bereaved families and those facing the death of a loved one to have an opportunity to connect as a family and create special memories.
It also allows children and young people to know that they are not alone and to meet with others who are grieving or facing the death of a loved one. Research shows that social connections and social support is important for health and well-being.
How we ask you to help with social events:
To help the Support Workers in the delivery of the events and to connect and engage with children, young people and their families in attendance.
Training – before supporting families
We will provide you with all of the information and training you need and you will join a vibrant and committed group of volunteers ensuring that children and young people across our communities will not be alone during their bereavement journey.
Jigsaw South East is committed to the wellbeing of our volunteers and we will provide you with the information and support you need to fulfil your volunteering role. You will have a named member of staff as a central point of contact, access to supervision where relevant and the opportunity to meet other Jigsaw South East volunteers on, at least, a quarterly basis.
We provide our group volunteers with some comprehensive training to prepare them for the role – but it is worth noting, volunteers are always working alongside professional Support Workers at the groups and are not expected to ‘go it alone’.
Who we need.
Jigsaw South East believes in the value of voluntary activity as an important component of the organisation in supporting children, young people and their families when facing or following the death of a loved one.
Jigsaw South East takes responsibility for ensuring that volunteers within its own organisation are appropriately involved, respected and valued for their contribution.
We are looking for enthusiastic and passionate volunteers over the age of 18 (we will be looking to recruit under 18 Young Ambassadors shortly).
We are looking for volunteers with the following essential/desirable credentials and who can commit to at least one Family Bereavement Session (and associated online and social components) and two Social Activities per year. The volunteer agreement and commitment to Jigsaw SE will be reviewed after 18 months as we know that people’s circumstances change.
Essential:
Excellent listening skills
Ability to empathise
Experience of bereavement (personal and/or professional)
Ability to work in a team activities
Use of a car (our venues are not easily accessible via public transport)
Ability to adhere to JSE’s policies and protocols for safeguarding and confidentiality
Desirable, but not essential:
Ability to commit to a minimum of one Family Bereavement Session and associated elements per year and two additional social activity per year
Experience with children and young people
Knowledge of different religious and cultural beliefs around death and dying
As an engager of volunteers Jigsaw South East is committed to a policy of equal opportunities. This principle will apply to service delivery, recruitment, promotion, training, facilities, procedures and all terms and conditions.
Volunteers will be expected to adhere to Jigsaw South East’s Equal Opportunities Policy, a copy of which can be found within the Jigsaw South East’s Volunteer Pack.
The children’s health and wellbeing are of paramount to us, therefore we are looking for very special people to help us provide the support they deserve and ask that you can meet the above criteria.
We will also require an enhanced DBS check and two references.
We look forward to hearing from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
All our Benefits Advocates play an integral role within our Information and Advice team and last year helped us to identify over £2.5 million in unclaimed welfare benefits entitlement for older people in the county. This money is life changing for our clients; improving quality of life and wellbeing, and supporting local services
We are looking for volunteers who are patient, sensitive and reliable, to assist older people to complete benefit forms such as Attendance Allowance. Appointments are usually in the older person's own home but can sometimes take place over the telephone. Full training and ongoing support are provided by our friendly and knowledgeable team.
Our volunteers will also raise awareness of and promote Age UK Devon services to clients, and record details of any other queries or concerns so that our Advisors can follow up with clients.
Skills required for this role are:
· Ability to empathise with others.
· Good verbal and written communication skills.
· Understanding of confidentiality.
· Patience, sensitivity, and reliability.
· Ability to respond appropriately to different and sometimes difficult situations.
· Working as a team member, referring to other team members when appropriate.
· Ability to work unsupervised and manage appointments.
· Good computer skills.
· Knowledge of the Benefits System (training will be provided).
Age UK Devon’s aim is to improve the lives of older people in Devon through delivering services and activities, promoting wellbeing and health, increase independence and access to local services as well as supporting families and carers - enabling people to get the most out of life.
Our volunteers donate their time to enable us to provide fantastic added value to our services and activities and bring a wealth of skills and knowledge to our organisation.
Our aim is to help you enjoy your role and to gain personal satisfaction on your volunteer journey with us – can you be the person we need to help us in supporting and making a positive difference to people in later life in the county?
If you would like an informal discussion about this role or have any queries, please contact Sarah Gunn – Advice and Wellbeing Manager (see our website for details)
Or if you would like to apply please visit Age UK Devon for more information on the role and how to apply.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
People with a learning disability or additional needs are often isolated and excluded from mainstream leisure and social activities. We believe that EVERYONE has the right to have fun and feel safe.
Our organised activity groups give people with additional needs the chance to make friends, enjoy social time together and try out a variety of activities. These fun and friendly groups also help to improve physical health and mental wellbeing.
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers for our amazing music, drama and dance groups in Weoley Castle. You will be encouraging our citizens to take part and ensure everyone has a great time.
What would I be doing?
Helping people to take part in various activities, including singing, dancing, creative music sessions and drama.
Encouraging people to feel part of the group and take part in the activities.
Helping to set up equipment and tidy away at the end of the session.
Helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.
What do I need?
· An interest in helping people, being approachable and friendly
· Any performance skills or interests would be amazing, but not essential.
· Good communication skills
· Accepting of others who might be different to you
· The ability to work as part of a diverse team
· A willingness to learn and work within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap
· Honesty, integrity and trustworthy
· Good time management skills, reliability
· An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.
Where and when do you need me?
· We produce a weekly timetable with activities each day
· Weoley Castle Community Hub, Bottetourt Rd, Birmingham B29 5TE
What’s in it for me?
As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:
· The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and their family carers
· Improved health and wellbeing from doing positive activities
· A volunteering preparation session
· An induction and settling in period and any training and development that is needed
· The chance to develop your skills and gain experience
· The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team
· Any out-of-pocket travel expenses
· Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution
To campaign for and deliver accessible and inclusive community health and wellbeing support services for individuals, families, and carers.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Our Trustees are a team of volunteers who use their diverse skills, experience, 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.
For families facing tough times, a holiday is a much-needed break from the day to day, as well as giving space and time to breathe, think differently. A holiday is essential for building wellbeing and hope for the future, especially when the present is challenging.
About you
You'll have the energy, integrity, passion, and skills to work with the Board of Trustees, our CEO and staff team, and our community, to drive forward a successful and dynamic future for our charity and the families we support.
We’re particularly looking to add the following professional skills and experiences to our team.
- Developing digital products, tools and/or services.
- Directly supporting children and/or families on an ongoing professional basis.
- Fundraising in a charity through voluntary donations or commercial income.
You don’t need to have been a Trustee before, but you do need to be willing to do some training to help you understand the role and the responsibilities that come with it.
We actively encourage applications from under-represented, marginalised and racialised groups, and those with lived experience of any of the barriers families face to having time away together. That’s things like mental or physical ill health, disability, domestic abuse, being a young carer or living on a low income.
We will make adjustments to our schedule and processes to ensure new trustees can be included and supported in the role.
More diverse perspectives on our Board help us make better decisions for families.
What we offer you
The biggest thing we have to offer is the chance to put your skills and experience to good use making the lives of families who are having a tough time better.
You’ll join a team who really care about making a difference and approach it with real openness and drive. Right off the bat we’ll connect you with the other Trustees and staff so you can get to know everyone, and we’ll buddy you up with another Trustee, so you’ve got someone to help you navigate it all as you settle in.
Expenses
You won’t get paid for your time, but we’ll make sure you aren’t out of pocket by covering the cost of your travel to meetings, childcare or other care if you need it, and a range of other expenses you might have while doing the role. We’ll book and/or pay for these in advance if you prefer.
How to apply
When you click 'Quick Apply' you'll find a link to upload your CV and answer a couple of screening questions.
We will make adjustments to the recruitment process wherever possible to ensure that no applicant is disadvantaged for any reason.
- Monday 20th May - Applications close at 9am
- w/c 3rd June and w/c 10th June - First interviews with a panel of current trustees
- w/c 17th June - Second interviews with Jackie our Vice Chair of Trustees
After the interviews we’ll contact anyone we’d like to join the Board with an offer subject to references and checks.
If you accept, we’ll take up your references, do a DBS check and confirm your eligibility to act as a Trustee. If that’s all ok, you’re in! We’ll introduce you to the rest of the Trustees and get started with your induction.
Formal appointment happens at the next Board meeting which is on Thursday 5th August.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.