Fundraising Data Officer Volunteer Roles
Camberwell After School Project is looking for a proactive and enthusiastic Treasurer to support this award winning children's charity which has provided a nurturing and positive childcare experience to many children for almost 40 years.
The Tresurer will oversee the financial affairs of the organisation and ensure they are legal, constitutional and within accepted accounting practice.
The post holder will also be responsible for monitoring and reporting on the financial health of the organisation to the Board of Trustees.
Key Responsibilities:
- Liaise with relevant employees, committee members and/or volunteers to ensure the financial viability of the organisation.
- Ensure fellow Trustees are aware of their financial obligations and take a lead in interpreting financial data to them.
- Regularly report the financial position at Trustee meetings (balance sheet, cash flow, fundraising performance etc).
- Oversee the production of an annual budget and propose its adoption at the last meeting of the previous financial year.
- Ensure proper records are kept and that effective financial procedures and controls are in place, ie:
- Cheque signatories
- Purchasing limits
- Purchasing systems
- Salary payments
- Pensions
- PAYE and NI payments
- Others as appropriate
- Appraising the financial viability of plans, proposals and feasibility studies.
- Lead on appointing and liaising with auditors/an independent examiner.
- Oversee the finance records on Xero ensuring posting and bookkeeping is kept up-to-date.
- Regularly carry out reconciliations/ oversee regular reconciliations by the Finance Officer.
- Authorise payments to creditors as appropriate and arrange appropriate signatures on payments.
Skills, experience and qualities we are seeking are:
- Dedicated towards the organisation's mission, aims and objectives.
- Willing to share ideas, expertise, knowledge and skills.
- Forward thinking and visionary.
- Knowledge and experience of current and fundraising finance practice relevant to voluntary and community organisations.
- Knowledge and understanding of charity law
- Knowledge of bookkeeping and financial management (as necessary).
- Good financial analysis skills.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
- Good people skills
- Willing to take on the challenges of collective working towards a sustainable organisation.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Alliance for African Women Initiative (AFAWI) welcomes volunteer interns from around the world. As a grassroots organization we foster a knowledge sharing environment that promotes an experience to learn about international development, Ghanaian culture and our projects that empowers women and children to create a better future for communities. AFAWI is not a placement agency, all the projects are owned and operated by our staff. Our organization was built to serve Ghanaian communities with a focus on women and children.
Volunteer Internship Tasks:
Implementation of on-going projects
Planning of new projects
Fundraising
Social Media
Marketing
NGO Management Assistance
Administrative Assistance
Data Collection and Evaluation
Partner Meetings
Internal Trainings
AFAWI has a number of ongoing projects for Volunteer Interns to choose from. These projects are located in rural communities no tour companies have access to.
Our projects have a set schedule and at different times of year some projects may be more of a priority. Volunteer Interns personal preference will be accommodated as much as possible, though depending on the time and length of your stay, the implementation activities and the level of results witnessed may vary. There is opportunity to learn about and contribute to multiple projects.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
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Amplify Barawak’s mission and enhance our public presence through strategic marketing and powerful advocacy. As the Marketing Outreach and Advocacy Vertical Lead, you’ll craft compelling narratives that engage and mobilize our community.
Understanding the Verticals at Barawak
Imagine Barawak as a living, thriving tree. Our verticals are like the main branches—each one strong and important, reaching out in its own direction but all connected to the same trunk, our community's mission. These four powerhouse teams each have a special job:
• The Fundraising and Financial Management vertical covers fundraising and money matters: This team is all about finding resources—like getting donations and grants—to keep our programmes strong and healthy.They will spend their time writing fantastic letters, sponsorship proposals and funding requests on behalf of Barawak as a whole, but also (supporting programme leads) to specific organisations for Barawak service lines.
• The Partnership Development and Collaboration vertical covers building bridges: They're the connectors, making friends with other groups, businesses, and everyone who can help us grow.
• The Volunteer Engagement vertical covers welcoming our helpers: This bunch is in charge of gathering our most valuable resource—people like you who want to volunteer and make a difference.
• The Marketing Outreach and Advocacy vertical covers spreading the word: They tell our story far and wide, making sure everyone knows what we're up to and how they can join in.
Each vertical team works in two distinct ways: the first way is for Barawak as a whole, and the second way is in support of each Barawak service, feeding our programmes, like roots bringing water and nutrients to the branches. Whether it's Poverty Relief, Education, Employment Support, Community Engagement or Sports and Wellness, these verticals give the support each programme needs to blossom and bear fruit. Working together, they make sure we're all pushing in the same direction—towards a future where our community stands tall and proud.
Introduction to the Marketing, Outreach, and Advocacy vertical Lead role:
The Marketing, Outreach, and Advocacy Lead is the driving force behind Barawak’s communication, its brand identity and public presence. This strategic role involves developing and implementing marketing and outreach initiatives to amplify Barawak's mission and to advocate for the Afro-Hebrew community. It requires collaboration with trustees and programme leads to ensure consistent messaging and effective advocacy.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Marketing and Outreach:
• Develop and execute a comprehensive marketing and outreach strategy that promotes Barawak’s mission, programs, and events.
• Utilize a multi-channel approach, including social media, local press, and community events, to raise awareness and engage diverse audiences.
2. Advocacy Campaigns:
• Craft and lead advocacy campaigns that support Barawak’s strategic objectives and service lines, ensuring the community's voice is heard on critical issues.
• Build relationships with media outlets and influencers to enhance Barawak’s visibility and impact.
3. Support to Trustees:
• Provide the Board of Trustees with strategic marketing insights and advocacy support, enabling informed decision-making.
• Ensure trustees are kept informed of marketing and advocacy efforts and outcomes, aligning with Barawak’s governance and strategic plans.
4. Programme-Specific Outreach:
• Tailor marketing and advocacy efforts to support the unique goals of each Barawak programme, from Poverty Relief to Sports and Wellness.
• Collaborate with programme leads to highlight success stories, key initiatives, and opportunities for community involvement.
5. Brand Management:
• Oversee Barawak’s brand identity and messaging across all platforms, ensuring consistency and alignment with organizational values.
• Develop marketing materials and campaigns that resonate with the community and stakeholders.
6. Performance Analysis:
• Monitor and analyze the effectiveness of marketing and advocacy initiatives, using data-driven insights to refine strategies.
Qualifications and Skills:
• Experience in marketing, public relations, or advocacy within the nonprofit sector.
• Strong creative and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to develop compelling narratives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proficiency across various media platforms.
• A collaborative spirit, adept at working with diverse teams and community groups.
In the role of Marketing, Outreach, and Advocacy Lead, you will be the storyteller and voice of Barawak, shaping the way the world sees and understands our mission and the community we serve.
Important: This advert is for a voluntary role, which is unpaid and not subject to reimbursement of expenses. Any agreement with the successful candidate is not intended to be a legally binding contract between us and may be cancelled at any time at the discretion of either party. By applying for the role, candidates agree that neither of us intend any employment relationship to be created either now or at any time in the future.
To relieve the poverty of persons and families of African and Caribbean decent.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteering opportunity: The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain is seeking new Trustees
Join us as a Trustee at The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain! As a registered charity, we’re seeking dedicated individuals to guide us in fulfilling our mission with integrity and passion.
Responsibilities include shaping strategic direction, safeguarding the organisation’s values, ensuring financial stability, and actively contributing to board decisions. Trustees play a key role in promoting openness, honesty, and leadership.
We’re looking for committed individuals with a love for brass banding and youth music, and expertise in areas like arts management, funding development, audience development, marketing and communication.
If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact, join us on this exciting journey! We are seeking applications from a broad range of backgrounds and ages. Don't be put off if this is would be your first charity trusteeship - to develop greater youth voice, applications from under 25s are also welcome.
We exist to give the brightest young brass and percussion musicians the opportunity to develop their musicianship, play together and inspire others.
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As a Business Development Manager you will be the front of the charity by helping to create opportunities when engaging small, medium and large enterprises. The role will provide effective day-to-day management relating to all aspects of the charity’s set up and operations.
The role will ensure financial sustainability by assisting the CEO, Marketing Lead and fundraisers identify and secure appropriate funding that supports the values of the charity, and to clearly demonstrate and promote the positive impact of the charity.
What will you be doing?
- To manage all operational activity of the charity according to the strategic direction provided by the CEO and Trustees.
- Where required to undertake aspects of business development including identification of funding opportunities, bid writing and tender submissions.
- To assist the CEO with updating and revising the charity’s business plan and fundraising strategy in accordance with the Trustees’ strategic direction.
- Contacting potential partners to establish rapport and arrange meetings.
- Researching organisations and individuals to find new opportunities.
- Where appropriate attend conferences, meetings, and charity events.
- Develop a growth strategy focused both on financial gain and stakeholders’ satisfaction.
- To undertake any other relevant duties within the overall scope of the role, as requested by the CEO and Trustees of the charity.
- Lobby government and other policy makers on behalf of the charity’s cause or client group.
What are we looking for?
- Bachelor’s degree in business, sales and marketing or related field.
- Highly competent IT skills
- Proven customer service skills
- The ability to prioritise and manager own workload
- Understanding of data protection and confidentiality
- Excellent time management and organisational skills
- Ability to motivate and empower people
- High levels of commitment, reliability and motivation
- Flexible and adaptable approach
- Ability to learn quickly and take on tasks outside of current skill set.
Time commitment and expenses:
- 1-3 hours per week, either in or out of office hours.
- We request a minimum commitment of 3 months volunteering.
What difference will you make?
- Share your knowledge and experience.
- Learn new skills.
- Shape how the charity presents itself to service users, stakeholders, funders and the general public.
- Network with a friendly team of people.
- Make a difference to the charity and the lives of others.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
PIP works mainly in the Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster communities to support adults with learning disabilities and autism. Our focus is on teaching and learning life skills so those we work with self-identify as PiP students. Ranging in age from 18 to 92, our average student is around 34 years old.
PiP students have a range of learning disabilities including Down's Syndrome, Fragile X, Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), dual diagnosis with mental health problems and/or physical health conditions such as Diabetes and Epilepsy.
What’s in it for you?
You will be joining a friendly board with a variety of skills and you will gain immense satisfaction from a role in which you will steward our mission to combat social inequalities and their effect on people with learning disabilities. Your involvement will mean we can ensure that every PiP student has a voice and can make their own choices about their own lives.
Role & Person Specification
As Chair your primary responsibilities will include:
- Chair meetings of the PIP Board of Trustees, providing leadership and support to the CEO including meeting regularly to discuss current issues
- Lead the board in the performance of their roles and scrutiny of PiP’s work
- Enable trustees to fully engage with their role, board sessions, and the organisation’s work
- Hold the CEO to account for the performance and financial sustainability of the charity and give appropriate support and challenge
- Oversee the strategic direction, financial management & performance of the organisation
- Provide leadership for the organisation
- Support in the income generation, communications, and community engagement of the organisation
- Lead on the appointment of trustees and CEO as required and ensure that posts receive appropriate induction, advice, training and information
- Ensure that PIP complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
PiP is looking for an individual with the following skills and experience:
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to think strategically and creatively
- Good communication skills with the ability to inform and engage a wide range of audiences
- An understanding of leadership, management and governance and the respective roles of the Chair, the Board and the Chief Executive
- The ability to understand and scrutinise the financial management of the organisatio
- An understanding of the importance of PiP’s work and our person-centred approach to addressing inequalities for adults with learning disabilities
- A willingness to commit time and effort to the development of PIP
- The ability to engage comfortably at all levels
- A commitment to PiP’s values
How to apply
Eastside People is supporting PIP (Pursuing Independent Paths) in the recruitment for this role.
Please submit your CV and a cover letter, which should indicate why you are interested in applying for the Chair role and joining PIP, how you meet the role requirements, as outlined in the Candidate Information Pack and how your skills and experience would add value to the organisation.
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. Please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can make the application process work for you.
The closing date for applications is 9.00 am on Wednesday 5 June and interviews with the recruitment panel at PIP will take place week commencing 10 June.
The successful candidate will be asked to attend the Board meeting on 8 July at 5.00 pm – 7:00 pm to meet the trustees.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The vacancy
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is seeking to appoint one new Trustee. As a DofE Trustee you will make a meaningful contribution to our work, helping young people develop themselves so they have the skills and confidence to make the most of whatever life throws at them.
The duties of a trustee are as follows:
- Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy.
- Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing document (for example, its trust deed, constitution or memorandum and articles of association), charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
- Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuit of its charitable objects (for example, the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, however worthwhile or charitable those activities are) for the benefit of the public.
- Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets.
- Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation.
- Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.
- Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation.
- Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
- Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal, and remuneration of the chief executive (if the charity employs staff)
In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Trustees Board reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.
Person specification
A commitment to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and its vision, mission, and values
– An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship
– Experience as a Board member in a business or charitable organisation
– A qualified accountant who has experience as a CFO or audit committee partner, candidates must have the capacity and capability to undertake the role of DofE’s Chair of Audit, Investment and Risk Committee
– Ability to distil complex information and bring a pragmatic approach to its application
– Understanding of risk and how to identify, manage and mitigate risks and at Board level
– Highly-effective communication and interpersonal skills
– Independent, innovative, strategic and creative thinker
– Sound judgement, ability to weigh up different options and information and make informed decisions
– Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with other Trustees and the Executive Leadership Team
– A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity accountability, openness, honesty and
Trustee recruitment:
To meet the changing needs and aspirations of the most diverse generation of young adults ever, our Board needs a range of perspectives, skills, and lived experience.
The DofE Trustee Board is particularly keen to recruit a new trustee with skills, expertise and lived experience in the following areas:
- A qualified accountant and has professional experience as a CFO or as an Audit partner.
- Candidates must have the capacity and capability to undertake the role of DofE’s Chair of Audit, Investment and Risk Committee
- Experience as a Board member in a business or charitable organisation.
Terms of Appointment
Trustees are appointed for an initial four-year term with the possibility to extend for a further four-year period.
Time commitment
• Four formal board meetings per year (3 hours per meeting), ordinarily held in central London or via Microsoft Teams.
• Sub-committee meetings - circa four a year or when required (usually 1-2 hours per meeting).
• A board strategy away day per year.
• Reading time for papers.
Time to participate in essential training and ongoing Trustee development.
• Contribution to charity events and activities, such as fundraising events and Staff Conference.
Induction, training and governance
Safe recruitment practice applies to our Trustees, and if appointed we will expect you to complete an induction to the DofE, visit our sites and meet key staff, volunteers and participants.
Trustees are required to provide suitable references, undertake a basic Disclosure and Barring Service check. (e.g. DBS/PVG or similar),fit and proper person checks and provide confirmation of identity and any relevant qualifications. In addition, we will ask you to declare any relevant interests on an annual basis and sign up to our Trustee Code of Conduct.
To support you in your role as a Trustee we will provide training in relation to safeguarding and data protection as part of your induction and offer ongoing learning and development opportunities as well as an optional mentor and regular guidance and performance check ins throughout your time as a Trustee.
How to apply
For further information about DofE UK, our work and impact, please see our website.
If you require further information regarding the opportunity which is not covered within the Trustee Recruitment Pack, please reach out to Lauren Walden-Pidding.
The closing date for applications midnight on 19th May 2024
Interview will take place: from week commencing 27th May 2024.
To apply, please submit a CV supported by a covering letter outlining your motivation for applying and highlighting how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the specific requirements of the role.
Please also note we will require two professional references in support of your application.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.
What is a Branch Chair?
There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.
Why do we need you?
We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.
When would you be needed and where would you be based?
This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.
What would you be doing?
- Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
- Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
- Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
- Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
- Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
- Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
- Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
- Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
- Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
- Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
- Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
- Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.
The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.
What could you gain from this volunteering role?
- Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
- Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
- Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
- Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!
What training and support would you receive?
- Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers.
- Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
- Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
- Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
- Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
- Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
- Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.
What are we looking for?
- Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
- Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
- Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
- Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
- Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
- Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
- Reliability
- Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
- Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
- Good written and spoken English.
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.
Minimum Age: 18
Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.
References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)
Is a criminal record check required? No
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
All Nations Christian College is world renowned for effective cross-cultural training for Christian missional life and work, both locally and globally.
We are looking for a qualified lecturer to take overall responsibility for all aspects of our 10-week missions training En Route course at the Easneye site, teach on all other programmes offered by All Nations Christian College according to their area of expertise, and provide support and pastoral care to students. The successful candidate will have recent, extensive and relevant experience in cross-cultural mission and teaching experience in an academic context, together with pastoral skills.
This role is for a Tutor to be a residential volunteer on site (accommodation and meals are provided free of charge); or the role can suit a local volunteer who travels on site (travel expenses covered).
In the nature of the role, it is a genuine requirement that the post holder is a committed Christian and fully supports the objectives of the college.
Working conditions
Located: Easneye, Ware, Hertfordshire
Hours of work: full time / part time
(In order to apply, please send a completed application form and updated CV. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis)
All Nations Christian College is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children from abuse and neglect. We expect all staff who work with us to share this commitment.
All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Every 6 minutes someone learns that they are losing their sight. Every five hours, a baby is born with sight problems. In these moments, two profound questions emerge:
• Can this be stopped?
• How do I (or my child) live this life?
The merger of Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation, which took place on 1st April 2023, will enable us to address both questions. By combining our strengths and expertise we are now the only significant national funder with the efficiency,
capability, and capacity to increase investment in medical research and social improvement. Together we can mitigate both the prevalence and impact of sight loss. We have a clear ambition – to save sight and to change lives.
We are now seeking up to four new trustees as we establish ourselves in our new form and under our new name (soon to be announced). This is an exciting inflection point for us, and our new trustees will be central in enabling us to achieve our ambition.
We have worked through our merger and have a clear focus and vision, as well as a strong Board and senior leadership team, all of whom are ambitious for the potential impact we can make. Our re-brand will also enable us to amplify our position as a leader within the sight loss sector. Our merger was a critical step in accelerating research which will create a positive impact on the lives of millions of people. We do not want this opportunity to pass us by and that’s what makes these such an important and exciting roles for the right people.
As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to steer the course of our charity and our sector, shaping our strategies, and advocating for meaningful change. You will be help us be a driving force behind world leading research into sight loss prevention, and transformative initiatives that enhance the quality of life for countless individuals.
We are particularly seeking individuals who have a medical or scientific research background, ideally in ophthalmology, and those who have experience in retail and fundraising. If you want to be part of something that will really make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
“I extend a heartfelt invitation to those who share our commitment to making a profound difference in the lives of individuals affected by sight loss. Our journey towards a future where eye diseases are prevented and the challenges faced by the visually impaired are overcome requires the collective effort of dedicated individuals. We are seeking trustees who are not only passionate advocates for our cause but also possess the vision, expertise, and dedication to guide and govern our organisation. Your unique perspectives and skills will play a pivotal role in shaping and defining our impact for years to come.”
Dr Heather Giles, Chair
“Our two organisations came together to form a new dynamic, ambitious, entrepreneurial, impact-driven organisation to save sight and change lives. We are searching for trustees that can join us, and be at the forefront of creating the culture, the outlook and the methods of working and the operations to truly make a difference in society.”
Keith Valentine, CEO
ABOUT US
We are a new organisation forged from two ambitious charities: Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation. Our single, unifying mission is to save sight and change lives.
It is a mission that reflects two urgent questions everyone faces when they receive a diagnosis of sight loss: ‘How do I stop this?’ and ‘How do I live my life?’
Answering these questions guides our strategy as we progress a five-year plan with solid and lofty aspirations.
THE MERGER
Fight for Sight funds breakthrough research and life-changing services to build a more equitable future for blind and partially sighted people by accelerating breakthroughs in multiple sight loss conditions.
Vision Foundation works to inform, include and empower the visually impaired community. Empowerment is at the heart of what we do; our work focuses on what people can do, rather than what they can’t.
The merger will help us to realise a joint ambition to tackle sight loss from both a clinical and social perspective. Our combined organisation is now grounded in data and insight into the science, as well as the lived experience of, sight loss. With this wealth of evidence we’re determined to:
- generate further investment into the sector,
- accelerate clinical progress,
- improve quality of life for people facing or living with sight loss
Crucially, coming together is about growing our influence and impact, not reducing or diluting what we do. So, as we evolve as a merged organisation, we are combining our teams, announcing our new name and fine-tuning our unified
mission and strategy – as well as continuing with the important work we’re already committed to – you can expect big things from us and it is an exciting time to join us as a trustee.
OUR FUTURE
Our principal role is as a grant-maker. We award grants to the scientific community that could lead to scientific breakthroughs and treatments to stop eye diseases from progressing. In the future, we believe research can prevent people from losing sight and reverse sight loss. We invest to advance treatments that will cure eye disease and protect and grow the community of world-class scientists, technologists, and data scientists who can deliver tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Historically, Vision Foundation has funded innovations that directly impact people who are blind or partially sighted, from music classes for children to projects that take eye tests into at-risk communities. We invest in programmes, organisations and activities that deliver equity for and with blind and visually impaired people.
As a grant-maker, we are change-makers, accelerators and drivers of impact. We are bold, energetic, challenging, disruptive, tenacious, and determined.
We aren’t afraid to tackle the challenges facing the sight loss community, either. Recent campaigns include The Unseen, which unearthed the shocking scale and nature of domestic abuse among blind and partially sighted people, and See My Skills, which addressed high unemployment rates. The charity excels at working in partnership with others towards creating a more equitable society for the sight loss community.
As we progress, we’ll scale the impact of projects like these, look beyond the nation’s capital, and drive systemic change. We’ll need to secure the funds to invest in our trusted partners to achieve our ambitions. We’ll continue to fundraise by engaging with supporters and companies through legacies, events such as the London Marathon, and our network of charity shops.
The evidence we commission influences policy and decision-making to demand equality for all.
We’ll shortly have a new name that reflects our united ambitions, so it’s an exciting time for us and the people we serve.
OUR FINANCES
The charity is in a strong position financially, with a high level of reserves that we intend to draw down over the coming years as we focus on investing in sustainable growth and increasing our impact. Compared to many charities, we
have well diversified income streams, predictable costs, and are in the fortunate position to hold a sizable portfolio of investments. Our plans for the short and medium term are to invest in our income generation infrastructure, and to significantly increase the amounts of funding we can put to our charitable purpose.
OUR BOARD AND LEADERSHIP TEAM
Fight for Sight / Vision Foundation is the only organisation in the sight loss sector with an Executive Leadership Team that has over half of its members with lived experience of sight loss.
The Board currently numbers ten trustees, including our newly appointed Chair.
The Board meets four times a year, or more often as required.
Follow this link to find out more about our Board.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
As the most senior leaders in our charity, trustees play a pivotal role in guiding our strategic direction, amplifying our impact, and ensuring the fulfilment of our mission to save sight and change lives. You will serve on the main board and will be invited also to get involved in one of our sub-committees. These are currently:
- Social Impact & Scientific Research Committee (SISR)
- Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources Committee (FARR)
- People Committee
- Retail Committee
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership & Planning
- Provide leadership and strategic guidance to the charity, aligning efforts with the mission and values of the organisation.
- Collaborate with the board, executive team, and stakeholders to develop and implement long-term strategies that advance the charity’s impact and sustainability.
Governance
- Ensure effective governance, decision-making, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.
- Work closely with board members, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, collaboration and open communication, harnessing different views and opinions.
Engagement
- Represent the charity at public events and networking opportunities to promote our mission and raise awareness about our cause.
- Develop and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, corporations, government agencies, and the visually impaired community.
Evaluation and Accountability
- Collaborate with the board to evaluate performance, ensuring alignment with the charity’s goals and objectives.
- Ensure the charity is accountable to donors and beneficiaries, that is financially robust and sustainable, and that is effective risk management in place.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
We are seeking dynamic and dedicated individuals to serve as trustees of our ambitious merged organisation. The ideal candidates will have a strong commitment to our cause, along with the following:
Specialist experience
At this time, we are particularly interested in candidates who have leadership experience in:
- Scientific and/or medical research
- Ophthalmic research and/or clinical practice
- Strategic oversight of substantial fundraising and/or retail operations
Despite these areas of interest, we welcome a diversity of skills and experience at our charity and on our Board, and want to find the right candidates regardless of their specific areas of expertise or experience. So if you are interested in this role and think you can contribute to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.
General attributes
Knowledge & experience
- An understanding of governance, and experience on a committee or board.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with stakeholders, including donors, corporations and government agencies.
Skills & abilities
- Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term planning and vision to deliver impact.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Entrepreneurial instincts and a healthy understanding of risk balanced with ambition using sound judgement.
Styles & behaviours
- High ethical standards and commitment to upholding the charity’s values, as well as a passion for advocating on behalf of individuals with, or at risk of, sight loss.
- Collaborative, highly inclusive, fostering trust and valuing difference perspectives.
- Solution-focused, with an ability to see the big picture and be pragmatic.
TERMS OF APPOINTMENT
Remuneration
This role is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses may be claimed.
Time commitment
While the exact time commitment may vary based on the charity’s needs and priorities, we anticipate the following general expectations:
- A minimum of four Board meetings per year
- Up to four subcommittee meetings per year (the specific committee depending on skills and experience)
- Preparation for meetings, review of materials, and other trustee engagement as appropriate.
- Annual Strategy Day with full Board and executive team.
- Meetings with members of the executive leadership team as appropriate.
- Representing the charity at high profile events, functions and public engagements to enhance its reputation and partnerships.
Location
At present Board meetings are held in central London. Subcommittee meetings are held remotely.
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 Nations Christian College has a long history of successfully equipping men and women whose sights are firmly set on a future in mission work. In 2021 we celebrated 50 years of training for these remarkable individuals. We believe our work to be vital – preparing people for mission requires training for ‘the whole person’. And central to our ability to deliver high standards of education and growth for our students is a highly skilled, diverse and engaged team, ready to serve and make a difference. Could that be you?
We are looking for a qualified and experienced tutor to take overall responsibility for pastoral care within the College, and to contribute to the teaching of select modules in the candidate’s area of expertise.
This role is for a Tutor to be a residential volunteer on site (accommodation and meals are provided free of charge); or the role could suit a volunteer who lives locally and travels on site (travel expenses covered).
In the nature of the role, it is a genuine requirement that the post holder is a committed Christian and fully supports the objectives of the college.
Working conditions
Residential volunteer, or local volunteer
Located: Easneye, Ware, Hertfordshire
Hours of work: full time / part time (flexible)
Start: 2nd September 2024
All Nations Christian College is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk, from abuse and neglect. We expect all staff who work with us to share this commitment. Staff may be required to be checked with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS)
All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Become the next Chair of The Story Museum, an award-winning one-of-a-kind Museum which immerses thousands of children annually in the world of books, bringing stories to life through boundless creativity and deeply engaging experiences; educating and inspiring the next generation of readers in its incredible reimagining of the written word.
Applications close at: 9 a.m. Tuesday 11th June 2024
Location: Oxford/online
About The Story Museum
The Story Museum exists to enrich lives, especially young lives, through stories. It achieves this from its most unusual Museum in Oxford where great stories are shared in the most incredible variety of powerful, funny and engaging ways.
Thanks to a creative and committed staff, they devise an imaginative programme of permanent and temporary exhibitions, performances, interactive workshops, skills-building courses and online engagement. Located in the heart of Oxford, it brings stories to life, unlocking the next generation’s creativity and imagination.
So much more than simply a ‘museum,’ The Story Museum brings stories to life through interactive exhibits, talks, shows and a beautifully curated collection highlighting the history of storytelling.
The Museum believes passionately in highlighting the human need for stories and takes pride in celebrating and devising the many innovative ways that people can benefit from them. They collect great and diverse stories and share them in the most engaging ways possible.
Founded in 2003 as the first museum dedicated to stories in the world, The Story Museum has grown in scope and ambition. Truly one-of-a-kind, the museum is a fountain of creativity and innovation, rightly recognised with its NPO accreditation, as a Museum of the Year 2022 finalist, the RIBA South Award winner 2022, and a 2021 Civic Trust Awards Regional finalist.
The Story Museum is an innovative, physically engaging world filled with stunning theatrical props, talking trees and incredible attention to detail that bring children’s favourite stories to life.
In terms of outreach, the Museum works with 8 schools and 4 community centres from the Oxfordshire area, offering free activities to the students who need them most.
Children and their education are at the heart of what they do – spaces are designed to stimulate and inspire, and their content is regularly co-created alongside young people who take part in their programmes.
The Museum finds itself at the precipice of the next exciting phase. Following redevelopment, the Museum has set its sights on becoming recognised both regionally and nationally for the iconic work that it does, aiming to be a beacon of education and a cultural leader in the storytelling space.
About the role
With their former Chair stepping down after 3 successful terms, they seek a new Chair to help oversee their governance, prioritise key targets, and drive financial and strategic growth.
The Story Museum is a registered charity with a Board of non-executive trustees who are legally responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the organisation, with day-to-day responsibilities delegated to the CEO and senior leadership team.
The Chair of the Board provides effective leadership by chairing board meetings throughout the year, working closely with the executive leadership team, and scrutinizing the charity’s progress against its strategy and charitable objects.
The Chair acts as an ambassador for The Story Museum, helping to raise its profile, build its network, and provide support to fundraising initiatives. The Board’s governance is strong, and trustees are highly committed and engaged – bringing the necessary energy and scrutiny to meetings. Led by experienced and renowned CEO Caroline Jones, The Story Museum has a dedicated, engaged and talented executive team — all united by a passion for the importance of children’s storytelling.
The Board and Executive have a healthy, amiable and professional relationship, ensuring the organisation has challenge and support in equal measure.
The Chair of the Board is expected to:
- Establish effective partnerships between the Board, the executive, and stakeholders.
- Ensure the Board operates at a high level underpinned by an inclusive atmosphere and active contribution from all members.
- Attend and chair quarterly Board meetings, quarterly committee meetings, the AGM, and an annual inspiration day board meeting.
- Have regular routine meetings with the Museum Director and other senior staff to act as a sounding board, provide additional scrutiny, and assist in response to urgent issues if they arise.
- Act as an ambassador at external events with an eye to secure additional funding.
- Represent the Museum to key stakeholders, including Arts Council England representatives and funders.
Who we are looking for
The Story Museum is seeking a Chair who can demonstrate:
- Corporate leadership experience at a board level (private or public sector)
- Experience in chairing Board meetings with an excellent knowledge of governance.
- Proven ability of helping to define, support and/or drive the strategic direction.
- A proven track record in stakeholder engagement, with a willingness to engage directly with funders, being mindful of TSM’s status as an NPO.
- Ability to listen, to consult and ultimately to be decisive.
- Ability to delegate effectively.
- Experience in monitoring progress against objectives and milestones.
- Experience in building networks and connections with a view to raising funds for charities and good causes across the not-for-profit sector.
- An experience and understanding of charity finance with the ability to monitor and interpret financial data.
- A passion and commitment to the values, purpose and activity of The Story Museum
- Professional or personal experience in one or more of the following: children’s story in its widest forms, publishing, education, media, the museum sector, arts, heritage and culture
- Being within reach of Oxford and Oxfordshire will make fulfilling the role easier.
- Candidates must bring experience of operating at Board level, with previous/current chairs, vice-chairs, and committee chairs especially welcome.
- A passion for the mission is vital, so experience in one or more of the following is highly desirable: children’s stories, publishing, media, the museum sector, arts, heritage, or culture.
Candidates must demonstrate a strong track record of senior strategic leadership experience and have a good understanding of governance oversight in relation to financial and senior management performance.
The Story Museum seek a strategic, collegiate and inclusive leader who can effectively manage change, challenge appropriately, advise, act strategically, and have a consultative and collaborative style.
As a proactive and vocal ambassador for the Museum, the next Chair must be comfortable articulating the vision and direction of the organisation to internal and external stakeholders alike.
Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.
Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 11th June 2024.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Could you coordinate local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background, just basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with people and good written and spoken English. If so, we’d love to hear from you.
What is a Branch Secretary?
There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a secretary to organise day-to-day activities. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people. As the first point of contact for SSAFA in the area you will play a crucial part in promoting SSAFA locally, organising local events and ensuring the smooth running of SSAFA across the divisions in your branch.
Why do we need you?
We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.
There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.
In recognition of our clients’ service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can match clients to volunteers and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
When would you be needed and where would you be based?
This role is about coordination and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment each week. You would also need to organise and attend a number of regular meetings each year.
What would you be doing?
- Managing the branch office (if applicable) and providing support to all volunteers, especially new ones
- Work with the branch Chairperson, treasurer, and others to ensure smooth running of the branch.
- Accepting referrals and coordinating SSAFA caseworkers, visitors, and helpers accordingly
- Oversee all SSAFA casework across the branch ensuring clients get support that is effective and timely.
- Monitor volunteer numbers against the demand for support and recruit new volunteers as needed
- Working with the local training officer to ensure all volunteers are kept up to date with the training and information they need.
- Build relationships with regional and central office staff to ensure an effective flow of information.
- Maintaining accurate records of volunteers and cases, submit accurate data to Central Office
- Providing administration for an annual programme of meetings including an AGM, recording, and implementing decisions
- Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser.
- Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)
The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.
What could you gain from this volunteering role?
- Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
- Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
- Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
- Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!
What training and support would you receive?
- Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers, volunteer management – case management and quality. This training would take approx. 4 days.
- Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
- Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your training up to date.
- Support from the Chair of the branch
- Access to the Welfare Team and Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
- Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
- Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.
What are we looking for?
- Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
- Good written and spoken English.
- Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
- Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
- Ability to coordinate a team of people volunteering.
- Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
- Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to reporting any safety concerns etc
- Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
- Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.
Minimum Age: 18
Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.
References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)
Is a criminal record check required? No
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you passionate about taking action on climate change, biodiversity loss and social equity?
Do you believe that it's possible to meet today's needs without compromising those of future generations?
If you combine these beliefs with leadership skills and governance experience, we want to hear from you. Our Board of Trustees needs you to help us put Sustainability First in the UK.
Who we are
We’re a small, highly regarded think-tank and charity that promotes practical, sustainable solutions to improve environmental, economic and social wellbeing.
What we do
Sustainability First works towards real environmental and social change. Primarily
focussed on the energy and water sectors, we:
• undertake research
• initiate policy discussions
• make complex issues accessible to the public
• promote under-represented voices
• develop solutions to influence Players in the sector
The opportunity
You will be joining Sustainability First at a critical time, when we are stepping up our ambition to drive change in the energy and water sectors in a way that benefits people and responds to the urgent need to transition to a more sustainable future. You will work collaboratively with our Executive Director in meeting our ambitions to scale our work, drive change across the sector and embed the representation of people into decision-making.
This will include six primary responsibilities:
1 Ensure that Sustainability First has a clear strategic direction aimed at fulfilling its charity objectives and that the Strategy is regularly reviewed.
2 Oversee the governance of the Charity with:
a. an effective, diverse and relevant Board of Trustees.
b. appropriate policies, processes & financial management such that the Charity operates within the law, in pursuit of its Strategy and demonstrating good practice.
c. regular and effective liaison, reporting and oversight of the Executive Director, Company Secretary and, as necessary, staff and panel of experts in order to ensure effective and proportionate planning, use of resources, monitoring and reporting by the Board of Trustees.
3 Set the agenda for and chair Board meetings to ensure engagement of, and discussion amongst Trustees based on the best possible information, input from the Executive Director and team, leading to clear and accountable decision-making.
4 Appoint, support and manage the Executive Director on behalf of the Board.
5 Ensure that the charity has an income generation strategy which is monitored and actively supported by trustees and Chair, in order to achieve the Board’s stated objective to build resilience and capacity for Sustainability First to successfully fulfil its charitable objects.
6 Represent the charity externally as required.
Skills
After many years of service to our charity, our current Chair is retiring. At a time of opportunity and challenge for our organisation, we’re looking for someone with a proven track record of leadership at board level, ideally in the UK charity sector. Your experience of running and growing a small but impactful organisation in a professional or voluntary capacity will be crucial to the work of our Board, dedicated staff and expert associates.
Not one to shy away from a challenge, you will draw on your experience of collegiate collaboration, positive decision-making and effective problem-solving to help ensure funding, organisational excellence, and ultimately environmental and social change.
PERSON SPECIFICATION FOR CHAIR
The ideal candidate will have proven knowledge/ skills/ experience in the following areas:
- Governance and board experience (essential) and in a chairing or leadership role (desirable)
- *Demonstrable leadership skills consistent with Sustainability First’s values and charitable purpose (essential)
- *Ability to both manage and support the Board and Executive Director to help achieve the best outcomes (essential)
- Support the vision and mission of the charity (essential) with experience, networks and profile in one or more of our areas of operation (desirable)
- *Sufficient time and energy to fulfil the role (essential)
- A growth mindset* (essential) and income generation experience (desirable)
- *Experience of small organisations and their particular challenges in a professional or voluntary capacity (essential)
- Experience of working within the UK Charity Sector (desirable)
In addition to preparing for and chairing the Board, the Chair will be an ex officio member of all Board Panels, will line manage the Executive Director and will represent the charity externally as requested.
The commitment is likely to average around two days per month. The appointment is for an initial three-year term with the option to renew.
How to apply
The deadline for applications is 13th May. You can read our recruitment pack in full on our website. Please send a cover letter explaining your reasons for applying, the skills and experience you would bring to this role, and a copy of your CV plus a completed EDI Monitoring Form to our Company Secretary and Head of Finance, Claire Williams.
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!
Could you coordinate local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background, just basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with people and good written and spoken English. If so, we’d love to hear from you.
What is a Branch Secretary?
There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a secretary to organise day-to-day activities. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people. As the first point of contact for SSAFA in the area you will play a crucial part in promoting SSAFA locally, organising local events and ensuring the smooth running of SSAFA across the divisions in your branch.
Why do we need you?
We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.
There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.
In recognition of our clients’ service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can match clients to volunteers and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
When would you be needed and where would you be based?
This role is about coordination and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment each week. You would also need to organise and attend a number of regular meetings each year.
What would you be doing?
- Managing the branch office (if applicable) and providing support to all volunteers, especially new ones
- Work with the branch Chairperson, treasurer, and others to ensure smooth running of the branch.
- Accepting referrals and coordinating SSAFA caseworkers, visitors, and helpers accordingly
- Oversee all SSAFA casework across the branch ensuring clients get support that is effective and timely.
- Monitor volunteer numbers against the demand for support and recruit new volunteers as needed
- Working with the local training officer to ensure all volunteers are kept up to date with the training and information they need.
- Build relationships with regional and central office staff to ensure an effective flow of information.
- Maintaining accurate records of volunteers and cases, submit accurate data to Central Office
- Providing administration for an annual programme of meetings including an AGM, recording, and implementing decisions
- Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser.
- Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)
The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.
What could you gain from this volunteering role?
- Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
- Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
- Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
- Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!
What training and support would you receive?
- Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers, volunteer management – case management and quality. This training would take approx. 4 days.
- Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
- Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your training up to date.
- Support from the Chair of the branch
- Access to the Welfare Team and Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
- Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
- Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.
What are we looking for?
- Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
- Good written and spoken English.
- Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
- Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
- Ability to coordinate a team of people volunteering.
- Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
- Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to reporting any safety concerns etc
- Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
- Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.
Minimum Age: 18
Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.
References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)
Is a criminal record check required? No
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.