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NEW CHAIR WANTED FOR AGE UK MERTON’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES

We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees who shares our values and passion for supporting older adults in Merton. The new Chair will formally take up the role at the AGM in November 2025.

About Age UK Merton

We are an independent charity operating within the national Age UK network providing services for older adults in the London Borough of Merton. Our role is to ensure older adults can access the support, services and care they need to help them to live active and fulfilling lives.

Our vision: Supporting our communities with opportunities to love later life.

Our mission: To provide quality advice and services that meet the needs of older adults in Merton.

Our values: quality, integrity, kindness, inclusivity and collaboration.

Our priorities

We are passionate about making a difference to the lives of older adults in Merton. Our Strategic Plan 2023-2026 outlines our three key priorities in support of our mission:

1. Providing high quality advice and practical support.

2. Building social connection.

3. Creating opportunities for lifelong active ageing.

Our services

Living Well: we deliver holistic person-centered home assessments creating a motivational action plan and supporting older adults to access services and improve their health and wellbeing.

At Home: we provide practical help to enable people to feel comfortable, safe and secure at home with domestic support, shopping and respite for carers.

Activity programme: our weekly-programme of activities includes chair-based exercise, Zumba, Tai Chi, social club with board games, craft club, quiz sessions, walking group, monthly special lunches and aqua fitness. We also run a wide range of out and about trips annually.

Information and advice: our trained advisers offer free accredited information and advice to older adults on benefits, health and end of life, housing, social care, local services and more.

Befriending and volunteering: we provide a high-quality, free, face-to-face and telephone befriending service, helping to reduce social isolation and promote independence.

Foot health service: we offer a low-cost paid-for foot health service for our clients.

Role description

As Chair, you will provide leadership and strategic direction to the Board of Trustees. Your regular responsibilities will include liaising with the CEO to set the agenda and agree the papers for Board meetings, chairing Board meetings, holding regular catch-ups with Trustees, and leading on Trustee recruitment and retention and Board development. In addition, you will also be the line manager to the CEO, holding regular meetings and undertaking the annual appraisal and objective setting. You will also sit on the Finance Committee (chaired by the Treasurer) and be responsible for determining complaints and grievances where a decision is appealed.

As a Trustee, you will have a number of core duties, including ensuring the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and relevant legislation; ensuring it pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document; ensuring the financial stability of the organisation; and ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

Person specification

Essential

· Previous Board-level experience, either as a Trustee or in another non-executive capacity

· Experience of chairing (either a Trustee Board or other professional experience)

· Strong leadership and interpersonal skills

· Willingness and capacity to devote the necessary time

· Good independent judgment

· A commitment to Age UK Merton and its vision, mission and values

· An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship

Desirable

· Some experience or understanding of the adult social care or health sectors

· An understanding of Merton as a place

To find out more and to apply

We welcome applications from all sections of the community. While we would especially welcome applications from people who live in our local area, this is not essential to success in the role.

If you are interested in applying, please send a CV (maximum 2-sides of A4) and cover letter (maximum 1-side of A4) to our current chair. Please also contact our chair if you would like to have an informal discussion about the role. The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday 25th July 2025. Interviews will be held in August/September 2025 and the successful candidate will formally take up the role at the AGM in November 2025.

Do you enjoying talking with people and helping them based on your life experiences?

Are you able to volunteer a few hours a week?

Yes? We’d love to hear from you.

What is knus?

knus is the UK’s first free, confidential, mental health peer support and coaching online chat service. knus offers mental health educational plans, relaxation experiences and live workshops.

What does knus mean? 'hug' in Danish.

Here’s some further information on what’s needed:

Are you over 18 and living in the UK?

You must be over the 18 years of age and live permanently in the UK.

Do you have a laptop?

A laptop and a quiet space to volunteer is essential.

How much time can you give?

A minimum of 3+ hours per week is required. We are flexible and like to work around you.

Do you like to learn?

We provide training for all volunteers that join us. Our peer support training is CPD accredited.  20-25 hours of volunteering training is required and is self led online.

If you’re interested head over to our website and we can have a chat or apply here.

Please note - all successful volunteers are required to donate the cost price of £20.60 for an Enhanced DBS check.  If you've got a current Enhanced DBS on the update service, this cost will not apply.

You must be a UK resident to apply for this role.

Join a charity that’s been empowering local, physically disabled people for over 30 years.

About Disability Peterborough

Disability Peterborough, legally registered as DIAL Peterborough, is a user-led charity dedicated to supporting physically disabled individuals and their families in Peterborough and the surrounding areas.

What will you be doing?

As a Board member of Disability Peterborough, you will serve as both a Director of the Company and a Trustee of the Charity. As Treasurer, you’ll play a key role in helping us manage our finances responsibly and sustainably, ensuring we can keep delivering vital services to physically disabled people in Peterborough. Your expertise will help us make informed decisions, plan confidently for the future, and safeguard the resources that make our work possible.

We have a contract with a local accountancy firm who use Xero software to prepare monthly management reports and the annual return. The accountancy firm also manage the wage runs each month. The Treasurer’s input is therefore primarily at a governance and advisory level rather than day-to-day financial administration.

The estimated time commitment is approximately 4 hours per month. This includes attending Board meetings, reviewing documents, and carrying out occasional follow-up tasks.

We are open to remote candidates for the Treasurer position, recognizing that much of the work can be done behind the scenes.

Please request the candidate pack for a full list of responsibilities

What are we looking for?

We’re seeking someone with the following attributes:

· Commitment to the charity’s mission and values

· Ability to analyse financial reports, budgets, service proposals, and contracts, and assess their financial impact

· Strong teamwork skills with an understanding of collective decision-making and responsibilities

· Excellent organizational skills; able to work remotely using own initiative and as part of a wider team

· Sound, independent judgment and creativity, with willingness to make tough or unpopular recommendations

· Understanding or willingness to learn legal duties and responsibilities of the treasurer and trustee roles

· Previous finance experience or a good understanding of financial management, preferably in the charitable sector

· Willingness to provide occasional advice and support to staff and volunteers via email, Zoom, or phone

No Prior Experience Required: Whether you have prior board experience or not, we welcome all applicants. What matters most is your passion, commitment, and willingness to contribute.

What difference will you make?

As a trustee, you can help us continue delivering essential services that improve independence, well-being, and access to rights for thousands of physically disabled people every year. Your input will help us:

· Develop and sustain life-changing programs like our Handyperson Service, Wellbeing Calls, and Shopmobility.

· Advocate for policy change and champion the rights of disabled individuals locally and nationally.

· Ensure that our services remain relevant, inclusive, and informed by those who use them.

By lending your time, insight, and passion, you directly support our mission to create a society where disabled people are valued equally, listened to, and included. You won’t just be shaping strategy - you'll be changing lives.

Passionate about the power of the game and giving back? Suffolk FA is recruiting new Trustees to help shape the future of their charity and join them in changing lives through football. If you have skills within ESG, Funding & Partnerships or EDI, along with a passion for the beautiful game, we’d love to hear from you.

About Us

Suffolk County Football Association (Suffolk FA) is the not-for-profit governing body for grassroots football in Suffolk. 

Our purpose is to inspire positive change through football, by driving the local game to unite communities, tackle inequalities and improve the health and wellbeing of people across Suffolk.

We provide the leadership, structure, and support that enable players, coaches, referees, and volunteers to thrive and enjoy the game. With over 330 clubs representing players of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, we are proud to ensure football truly is for all in Suffolk.

Background to the role

Suffolk FA is supported by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers striving to enhance football across the county. The organisation is undergoing a transformative phase with the appointment of a new CEO who starts in August, the forthcoming appointment of a Commercial Funding & Partnerships Manager and the recruitment of three new Trustees to fill important skill gaps in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Corporate Funding and Partnerships.  Please see the candidate information pack for full information on the roles and requirements.

In addition to expertise in either ESG, funding and partnerships and/or EDI, we are especially looking for applications from women and people from minoritised communities as we are seeking to broaden both the diversity and gender balance of our Board.  Previous Board experience is not essential, and we offer a full induction and onboarding process. What is essential is a passion for our work and a desire for positive change through football.

Being a Trustee – what's involved

Every charity has a Board – a group of volunteers who ensure that the organisation is effective in carrying out the purpose for which it was set up. The trustees at Suffolk FA have responsibility for overseeing the work of the charity, ensuring that it is effectively and efficiently run, with the appropriate oversight and governance, in line with the requirements of the County FA Code of Governance.

A helpful summary of trustee roles and responsibilities can be found in the Charity Commission guidance for new Trustees: The Essential Trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do (CC3)

We are looking for 

• People with the skills, knowledge and experience to lead on the development and implementation of Suffolk FA’s strategy within your specialist area (ESG; Funding & Partnerships; EDI), in line with business and football development plans.
• The ability to challenge constructively and work collaboratively with a diverse Board and Executive team.
• Ability to assess proposed courses of action against the concerns of your specialist area.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with confidence in representing the organisation externally.
• An understanding of and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• A genuine passion for inspiring positive change through football.

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting Suffolk FA in the recruitment of these roles. Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• Why are you interested in a Trustee role at Suffolk FA? 
• Which role are you applying for (ESG/Funding/EDI) and how do your skills and knowledge meet the specification?

Please note that we will focus on your demonstrable experience and potential in the areas listed under the Person Specification and do not expect candidates to have experience in all responsibilities outlined in the Job Description. We would discourage you from deselecting yourself if you are in doubt about meeting all the criteria. Instead, if you have specific questions about the role, please email John Sanger. Having a call of this kind will not influence the success or otherwise of your application.

The closing date for applications is Friday 25th July with online shortlisting interviews with Eastside People taking place throughout the recruitment process and the week after. Face-to-face interviews with the recruitment panel at Suffolk FA will take place between the 1st and 6th of August.

Suffolk FA is an equal opportunities organisation. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and lived experiences. We strive to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and are committed to equity and inclusion at every level of our governance.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident organisation. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

Deafblind UK members have combined sight and hearing loss and many can feel lonely or socially isolated. We offer a free telephone befriending service where we match volunteers with one of our members to have a weekly 30 minute chat together.

We are looking for confident, empathetic and friendly people who can hold a good conversation. You could be chatting about similar interests or learning about each other’s lives. Whatever the conversation you’ll be having a positive impact.

One 30 minute call seems really simple but having someone to talk to and someone to listen, could really make a difference to our members. It could be that you’re the only person they speak to that day, or even that week.

Our members love to chat with people who have had some life experience and stories to tell. You will need good communication skills and be able to strike up a conversation. You will also need to be reliable, patient with a naturally warm and friendly nature.

We will ensure you are supported throughout your journey with us, offering training and support at all times.

Throughout the UK, we provide essential services and support for individuals impacted by MS. We connect people to resources that foster a sense of belonging, community, and shared experiences.

 We are pleased to announce that we have secured funding from Wales and West Utilities for a 'test and learn' Community Connections project, which will operate until March 2026 and cover Wales and the South West of England.

 The goals of Community Connections are:

• To link individuals with, and affected by, MS throughout Wales and the South West of England (including Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire) to services, activities, and resources that promote living well with MS.
• To establish connections with local service providers that enable people with, and affected by, MS to access support and activities in their communities, while enhancing community connections.
• To offer information and guidance on various topics, including financial advice, cost of living information, energy efficiency tips, carbon monoxide awareness, and the Priority Service Register.

 As part of this initiative, we are seeking a Community Connections Volunteer to assist in directing people affected by MS to information about relevant local and national services. This could involve helping someone access information on benefits or supporting them with grant applications. This role will be conducted from home, providing assistance over the phone and via email.

 Here’s a summary of what the role entails:

• Guiding individuals to sources of support, such as our Living Well services, Helpline, health and social services, MS professionals, and local group activities.
• Referring any complex support needs to our Community Connections project team or Helpline.
• Occasionally assisting individuals who need help with grant applications and gathering necessary paperwork.
• Communicating relevant information to our Community Connections Project Administrator to maintain and update our service signposting lists.
• Staying in contact with referrals to ensure they are progressing with the support provided.
• Listening to and gathering feedback on the service as individuals conclude their involvement with the Community Connections project.

We will provide you with the necessary training and support to develop the skills required for this role, including an induction covering all outlined areas. Please note the role requires a DBS Check.

You will have the opportunity to discuss your role and any additional needs you may have with us.

Throughout the UK, we provide essential services and support for individuals impacted by MS. We connect people to resources that foster a sense of belonging, community, and shared experiences.

 We are pleased to announce that we have secured funding from Wales and West Utilities for a 'test and learn' Community Connections project, which will operate until March 2026 and cover Wales and the South West of England.

 The goals of Community Connections are:

• To link individuals with, and affected by, MS throughout Wales and the South West of England (including Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire) to services, activities, and resources that promote living well with MS.
• To establish connections with local service providers that enable people with, and affected by, MS to access support and activities in their communities, while enhancing community connections.
• To offer information and guidance on various topics, including financial advice, cost of living information, energy efficiency tips, carbon monoxide awareness, and the Priority Service Register.

 As part of this initiative, we are seeking a Community Connections Volunteer to assist in directing people affected by MS to information about relevant local and national services. This could involve helping someone access information on benefits or supporting them with grant applications. This role will be conducted from home, providing assistance over the phone and via email.

 Here’s a summary of what the role entails:

• Guiding individuals to sources of support, such as our Living Well services, Helpline, health and social services, MS professionals, and local group activities.
• Referring any complex support needs to our Community Connections project team or Helpline.
• Occasionally assisting individuals who need help with grant applications and gathering necessary paperwork.
• Communicating relevant information to our Community Connections Project Administrator to maintain and update our service signposting lists.
• Staying in contact with referrals to ensure they are progressing with the support provided.
• Listening to and gathering feedback on the service as individuals conclude their involvement with the Community Connections project.

We will provide you with the necessary training and support to develop the skills required for this role, including an induction covering all outlined areas. Please note the role requires a DBS Check.

You will have the opportunity to discuss your role and any additional needs you may have with us.

IGNITE THE SPARK 

Become SUNSHINE's Volunteer Coordinator and Build Our Family!

Are you a natural people-person, brimming with enthusiasm, and passionate about empowering others?

SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, dedicated to combating loneliness and radiating joy throughout our community. Our mission lives and breathes through the incredible individuals who volunteer their time – and we urgently need a warm, dynamic Volunteer Coordinator to bring them all together!

This isn't just about managing schedules; it's about building a vibrant, supportive family. You'll be the heart of our volunteer team, playing a pivotal role in:

• Recruiting & Welcoming: Finding and onboarding the amazing people who will spread our message and our mission.
• Training & Empowering: Equipping our volunteers with the skills and confidence to shine.
• Motivating & Valuing: Ensuring every volunteer feels appreciated, supported, and truly part of the SUNSHINE mission and family.
• Fostering Connection: Creating a strong, happy team that embodies the very spirit of our charity.

If you are passionate, dedicated, and committed to nurturing talent, building relationships, and seeing the direct impact of a thriving volunteer force – this flexible volunteer role is calling you! Your efforts will directly enable us to reach more isolated individuals and transform more lives.

Ready to build the most joyful volunteer family and truly spread SUNSHINE?

Bright Futures UK is looking for compassionate and knowledgeable career guidance and advice professionals to mentor young people living with serious illnesses.

What will you be doing?

• Run six mentoring sessions online

• Offer advice and insights related to CV and career goals

• Help the young person explore potential next steps after education and career pathways

• Share your own experiences and knowledge to inspire and motivate.

• Adhere to safeguarding policies and report concerns to the BFUK Team

What are we looking for?

• Expertise in Careers Guidance: Profound knowledge and experience in advising young people about their futures, with a focus on areas like pathways into a career and CV support.

• Mentoring and Communication: Ability to mentor effectively, offering guidance and support to a young person with clarity and empathy.

• Flexibility and Commitment: Willingness to commit to 6 weeks of 1-hour sessions

What difference will you make?

• By volunteering as a Mentor, you’ll play a vital role in empowering a young person to take control of their health and future, helping them to achieve their goals despite the challenges they face.

As a charity that supports children and young people, we make safeguarding individuals our top priority. For this reason, all volunteers are subject to an enhanced criminal record and disclosures check. We also ask all volunteers to adhere to our Safeguarding, Equality and Confidentiality policies. These are nothing to worry about and if you have any questions, our team are happy to support you.

Summary

The Sussex Area of the Ramblers has two Countryside Officers, one for East Sussex and one for West Sussex. The main activity in the role is to act on behalf of members where a reported planning development is likely to have an adverse effect on the walking environment in the Sussex countryside.

Description

The Ramblers, which celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2025, is the only charity dedicated to removing barriers so everyone can enjoy walking in green spaces, and to improving Britain’s most popular and least-known walking places. We’re committed to campaigning to keep our countryside open to all and to fighting for the things that matter most to walkers. We lead the way, and the walks, for a vibrant community united by the joys of walking, helping everyone get more out of their walks. 

The role of East Sussex Area Countryside Officer involves reviewing planning applications published by Local Authorities and creating and submitting objections on behalf of Sussex Ramblers if an application is likely to have an adverse impact on the Sussex countryside and the places where people walk. Objections may be expressed in writing through a response to the planning process, but could also involve site visits and on occasions attendance at public hearings or meetings with representatives of Local Authorities or with other stakeholders such as Parish Councils and environmental and wildlife organisations.

The role holder will work closely with other Ramblers volunteers such as the East Sussex Area Footpath Officer, the West Sussex Area Countryside Officer and Local Footpath Wardens in East Sussex and where necessary will seek advice and guidance from Ramblers' Central Office. Other main contacts include the Local Authorities, Parish/Town Councils, the South Downs National Park Authority and the East Sussex Local Access Forum. The role holder will be a member of the Area leadership team (Area Council). You will need to be a member of the Ramblers and to live in or close to East Sussex.

What Impact will you have?

The Ramblers help everyone, everywhere, enjoy walking and protects the places we all love to walk. By volunteering as an Area Countryside Officer you will be paying a vital role in making sure we can achieve this by holding Local Authorities to account for planning decisions, and helping to ensure that our countryside and the places people walk, essential to health and wellbeing, are safeguarded.

Skills and Experience Required

You should have a passion for walking and for preservation and protection of the natural beauty of the countryside and the special qualities of urban space, and a good knowledge of the county. Experience and knowledge of the Local Authorities' planning process is not essential but would be an advantage. The role is suitable for someone who is highly reliable, organised, capable of taking initiative and with an ability to articulate strategic issues clearly in written and spoken form. A desire and ability to work in a team environment is essential. You will also need to be comfortable using a computer and the internet, and managing information.

Ready to Lead and Empower Urban Youth by Supporting Our Incredible Volunteers?

Become Our Volunteer Coordinator at Urban Youth!

Urban Youth, a brand-new, vibrant youth work charity, is on a mission to create a positive, inclusive community for young Londoners. We're seeking a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator to help us build, nurture, and effectively manage our amazing team of volunteers, empowering young people across the city. This flexible role will require approximately 5-8 hours per week with lots of flexibility.

Building the Heart of Our Mission

At Urban Youth, we're not just about running activities; we're about sparking self-discovery, fostering friendships, and equipping young people with essential life skills. We're about creating unforgettable memories and guiding them to explore the world around them. Our volunteers are crucial to this mission!

As our Volunteer Coordinator, you'll be the driving force behind our volunteer programme. You'll bring your organisational prowess, people skills, and passion for youth development to help us:

• Recruit, onboard, and support our diverse volunteer team, ensuring they feel valued and equipped.

• Develop clear processes for volunteer management, from application to ongoing engagement.

• Match volunteers with engaging youth programmes and activities, ensuring smooth coordination.

• Be the main point of contact and support for our volunteers, fostering a positive and motivating environment.

• Assist in coordinating training sessions and appreciation initiatives for our volunteers.

This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in launching and growing Urban Youth's most valuable asset – its people – ensuring we make a tangible, lasting difference in the lives of young Londoners.

Why Join the Urban Youth Movement?

This is more than just volunteering; it's an opportunity to leave a profound and lasting mark:

• Enable Direct Impact: Your coordination will directly empower our volunteers to deliver inspiring programmes, shaping positive futures for young people from day one.

• Build a Volunteer Legacy: Be at the forefront of establishing a robust and welcoming volunteer programme for a dynamic new charity.

• Utilise Your Organisational & People Skills: Apply your valuable experience in coordination, communication, and community building to a cause that truly matters.

• Join a Passionate Community: Become part of a dedicated team committed to making a tangible difference in London.

• Flexible Hours: This role offers the flexibility to fit around your existing commitments, with approximately 5-8 hours per week.

If you're an organised, supportive leader, passionate about empowering both young people and the amazing individuals who volunteer for them, and ready to use your skills to help a new charity flourish, we want to hear from you! Help us create a vibrant volunteer force that perfectly captures the spirit and aspirations of London's incredible youth.

Ready to make your mark and help us create a wave of positive change in young people's lives?

Express your interest by applying via this Charity Job website. We can't wait to hear from you!

URBAN YOUTH

Building Futures | Forging Connections | Creating Memories.

Are you passionate about creating a culture of welcome for refugees in the UK? Do you have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation? This could be the perfect role for you! 

STAR is a dynamic and exciting national charity which makes a huge impact on a small budget. We are looking for our new Co-Chair of Trustees. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about creating a culture of welcome in the UK for refugees ,who believes in the power of young people as changemakers and who wants to empower refugees to reach higher education to join our board of trustees. 

 The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation and be able to commit to at least 2 years in the role.

We are in particular looking for applicants who: 

• Have lived experience 
• Have HR experience 
• Have campaigns experience, in particular hybrid campaigning.
• Have charitable fundraising experience. 

 Applications from persons with lived refugee experience are highly encouraged. 

Role Description

To provide strategic oversight of:

• STAR’s compliance with its Articles of Association, policies, and law; 
• STAR’s compliance with all funding conditions and contracts;
• Whether STAR is best using its resources to meet its objectives; 
• The effective and efficient administration of STAR;
• Monitoring and reporting of financial information; 
• STAR’s funding and expenditure situation; and
• Implementation of STAR’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Safeguarding Policy in employment and service delivery.

Also to:

• Contribute actively to STAR by giving strategic direction and evaluating performance against targets
• Attend and prepare for board meetings
• Appoint board members and officers via the procedures in this policy
• Approve accounts
• Ensure that STAR and the board safeguard STAR’s values and reputation
• Provide any other assistance the board or STAR may require, as appropriate, particularly utilising any specialist skills or experience they may have.

Specific responsibilities of the Co- Chair

• Ensure the proper management of board meetings, including setting agendas in consultation with the Director, chairing meetings, facilitating discussions and decision;
• Oversee the administration and coordination of any sub-committees; 
• Monitor implementation of board and sub-committee decisions;
• Take "Chair’s action" between meetings, where an immediate decision is required;
• Serve as line-manager to the Director, and conduct regular planned supervision and appraisal;
• Represent Board as required to the public or external parties such as funders and government; and
• Keep other officers fully informed so that they can deputise if necessary
• Working alongside and in collaboration with the other STAR trustee co-chair, sharing responsibilities and ensuring excellent communicative shared working.

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Experience of governance of a charity or public sector organisation
• A commitment to STAR’s values
• An awareness of issues affecting both STAR and the wider refugee sector, the ever shifting landscape of refugee policy and media coverage, or a willingness to learn and stay abreast of these current topics and new developments. 
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to prepare for and attend regular STAR meetings for at least 2 years
• Integrity and good independent judgement
• Strategic vision and an ability to stay focused on strategic objectives
• Willingness to take part in STAR discussions, contribute constructively and listen to others
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and liabilities of trustees of a charitable company
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• A commitment to the principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, as well as an understanding and acceptance of the Equal Opportunities Policy
• Willingness to undertake training required to allow them to fulfil their duties.

Desirable 

Five years experience in one or more of:

• Working with people seeking asylum and refugees;
• Other work with the asylum/refugee/migrant sector;
• Charitable fundraising;
• Voluntary sector issues, such as trends for charities and partnership/network formation;
• Organisational development, growth or change;
• Human resources;
• Financial management/accountancy;
• IT;
• Negotiations;
• Marketing and public relations;
• Lobbying, advocacy and campaigning regarding social justice or social policy;
• Management and administration of a charity, for example as a director or trustee;
• Campaigning;
• Social Media/ Communications 

About Student Action for Refugees

STAR (Student Action for Refugees) is the national network of students building a society where refugees and asylum seekers are welcomed and can thrive. 

Set up by students at Nottingham University in 1994, STAR is creating a more understanding, just and welcoming society by: 

• empowering young people to be changemakers; 
• providing practical support and connecting local communities through volunteering and student volunteer led community projects; 
• challenging the structural barriers that refugees and asylum seekers face when seeking protection and building new lives in the UK; 
• Sharing trusted information about asylum and the lived experience of refugees to combat misinformation, hostile narratives and instead spread compassion and humanisation 

We have a small staff team who train and support the network and lead on national campaign and advocacy work, with expertise in improving access to higher education for forced migrants.

Here are just some of our highlights from last year:

• 37  STAR university student society groups, across 28  towns and cities, run by 222 STAR student leaders. 
• 262 events were organised by STAR groups to educate, campaign, and fundraise for a more welcoming UK, from art exhibitions to cookery classes and film nights.
• 1,280 refugees and people seeking asylum were supported by 413 volunteers  through 28 community projects and 25 one off volunteering events. 
• 100s of students mobilised to support calls for better treatment of refugees in the UK including standing against detention, for a fairer plan for refugees and to lift the ban on work.
• 88 UK universities now offer sanctuary scholarships for refugee students. The STAR staff team was involved in the development of many of these new scholarships and the improvement of  existing scholarships. We also ran workshops for hundreds of  university staff. 
• 15 STAR groups campaigned for Equal Access at their institutions and 4 won!
• 65 aspiring refugee students were supported by our mentoring project and we provided signposting and advice about accessing HE to over 470 people.

If you would like an informal chat before applying, please get in touch.

Deadline for applications: 11th July 2025

Interviews: Rolling

This is an opportunity to lead the protection of the vital footpaths and rights of way network across the countryside of East Sussex and ensure walking in the natural environment is accessible to everyone.

You will coordinate a team of Local Footpath Wardens and will be responsible for assessing proposals affecting paths and for developing Ramblers' response to and comments on those proposals, liaising with Ramblers' Central Office and other stakeholders as necessary.

You will represent Ramblers' Sussex Area on rights of way issues with the local authorities and at meetings and public events.

To undertake the role you will need to keep up to date with legal and policy information about paths and planning issues nationally as well as in your local area.

The skills required for the role are to be confident but diplomatic; able to understand complex rights of way and legal issues; be friendly and personable with the ability to influence; and good at presenting arguments in writing and in person.

The role will offer you the opportunity to use your existing networking skills; to develop new skills and knowledge in relation to rights of way issues; and to work with a group of fellow volunteers to influence local policy.

Assistant Rehoming and Cat Coordinator

RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, Community based.

Are you passionate about animal welfare? We are looking for dedicated volunteers to help rehome animals in our care, with a special focus on cats and kittens. This is an incredibly rewarding role where you will directly impact the lives of animals by finding them loving, safe homes.

Overview of the Opportunity:

As a Rehoming and Cat Coordinator, you will play a vital role in the rehoming process for animals, ensuring they are placed in suitable and caring homes. You will coordinate home visits, manage volunteer fosterers, and liaise with local vets, the public, and other RSPCA branches. Additionally, you will oversee the welfare of cats and kittens in our care, from their initial acceptance to their adoption.

About the RSPCA:

Founded in 1824, we have been saving animals for nearly 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. Our vision is a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. Through our campaigns and daily efforts, we strive to raise awareness of animal welfare issues and promote responsible pet ownership.

The Buckinghamshire South Branch is one of the RSPCA’s local branches. While we operate under the umbrella of the National Society, we are a separately registered charity focused on helping animals in our local area. Our work is driven by dedicated volunteers who play an essential role in delivering our mission.

Volunteer Responsibilities:

Animal Rehoming & Coordination:

· Liaise with local volunteers to arrange home visits for animals in our care.

· Ensure all animals offered for adoption have been properly assessed for their suitability.

· Act as the main contact point for the inspectorate, the public, and other agencies regarding the acceptance of unwanted or unowned animals.

· Network with other RSPCA branches, private boarding establishments, and local cat rescues to maximise our capacity for rehoming.

· Oversee the rehoming application process, ensuring animals are matched with suitable adopters.

Cat-Specific Duties:

· Act as the contact point for the acceptance of unwanted or unowned cats and kittens from the public, vets, police, local authorities, and inspectors.

· Arrange and carry out cat collection and transportation to fosterers or vets in emergencies.

· Oversee the scanning of all cats/kittens to attempt to reunite them with their original owners.

· Ensure all cats and kittens in our care receive necessary vet checks, vaccinations, and treatments before being placed for adoption.

· Maintain records of all cats in care and compile regular rehoming reports.

· Organise and conduct viewings of cats ready for adoption.

Fosterer & Volunteer Management:

· Recruit, train, and manage a team of home visitors and fosterers.

· Conduct at least two health and safety visits annually for each fosterer.

· Oversee a fosterer WhatsApp group to provide support and share updates.

· Arrange and lead regular volunteer team meetings for training and motivation.

Communication & Administration:

· Oversee all email and voicemail inquiries related to cat rehoming.

· Monitor and respond to the cat coordinator’s mobile phone, offering emergency support Monday to Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM and/or evenings and weekends.

· Provide regular updates to shop managers regarding rehomed cats and food supply needs.

· Oversee stock of cat-related supplies, including food, litter, flea/worm treatments, probiotics, powdered kitten milk, microchips, and vaccination cards.

· Maintain accurate adoption records, including sending confirmation emails, processing adoption fees, and sending welcome packs to new owners.

· Arrange and conduct post-adoption follow-ups (virtually or via email) 4-6 weeks after adoption.

Public Engagement & Support:

· Offer a lost and found service by collecting information, offering advice, and posting on social media.

· Provide guidance to the public on animal welfare issues and refer them to the National RSPCA or other organisations when necessary.

· Ensure social media pages, websites, and volunteers are kept up to date with photos and descriptions of animals available for adoption.

What We Are Looking For:

· Excellent organisation and communication skills.

· Ability to manage and support volunteers effectively.

· Comfortable with administrative tasks, record-keeping, and reporting.

· Passion for animal welfare and dedication to improving their lives.

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

· Flexible and reliable, with the capacity to offer an ongoing commitment, we are looking for 2 positions to cover days, evenings and weekends.

· Experience in team management or coordination is an advantage but not essential.

· You must be 18 years or older, hold a valid driving licence and be able to lift animals in and out of your own vehicle safely, possess your own vehicle, lap top, mobile phone and have access to the internet.

What We Can Offer You:

· A rewarding opportunity to directly improve the welfare of animals.

· Become part of a compassionate community, meet new people, and make lifelong friends.

· valuable skills through our comprehensive induction and training program.

· Gain leadership and management experience and newly acquired skills.

· Access to the RSPCA Learning Hub with a wide range of training materials.

· The satisfaction of seeing cats and other animals find their forever homes.