Information support volunteer volunteer roles in harrow, surrey

Join The Kids Network to Support Children in Your Southwark Community! 

Are you looking to donate your skills, give back to your community, or spend your time in a meaningful way? The Kids Network gives you the chance to make a real difference in a child’s life while developing your own skills and building connections. Support a Little Londoner in Southwark by helping them grow in confidence. Set aside a little time each week to get creative, have fun, and make a lasting impact!

If you already have experience in mentoring, education, psychology, or related fields, The Kids Network provides an ideal platform to use and donate your skills. By becoming a mentor, you can actively practice your learned skills and see the direct impact of your efforts on the children in your local community and provide support to those who need it most.

Why Choose The Kids Network?

• Active Skill Application: Our programme allows you to apply your expertise in real-world settings, enhancing your practical experience.
• Structured Support: We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring you can make the most of your skills.
• Proven Impact: With 100% of children reporting increased wellbeing, you’ll see tangible impact from your mentoring.

Impact on Mentees

• Building Confidence: Help children in your community develop self-assurance and resilience.
• Creating Opportunities: Provide guidance that helps young people navigate their challenges and seize opportunities.
• Strengthening Community: Contribute to the overall wellbeing of your community, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Connection

• Personal Fulfilment: Experience the joy and satisfaction of making a positive impact on a child’s life.
• Meaningful Relationships: Form a strong bond with your mentee, providing guidance and support through fun and engaging activities.
• Community Engagement: Participate in mentor meet-ups and group activities, connecting with other mentors and mentees.

Your Role as a Mentor

As a mentor, you will hold weekly one-on-one sessions of 1-3 hours for the duration of 12 months. You will help build confidence, resilience, and help your mentee manage feelings through a series of fun experiences and activities. Whether you’re playing games or discussing goals, you’ll be making a difference in a child’s life by developing the tools for a positive future.

 Join Us Today

Whether you're wanting to use your expertise, eager to give back and make an impact, or looking for purpose and connection, The Kids Network offers a meaningful way to contribute. Volunteer with us and become part of a community dedicated to fostering positive futures for children and mentors alike.

For more information and to apply, visit The Kids Network website

We seek a Chairperson to head our Board at Evolve Counselling who will guide our strategic direction in the provision of lowest cost mental health counselling for individuals and businesses. 

Location: Cambridgeshire area of operations. Chair can be fully remote. 

Voluntary: Reasonable expenses paid 

Commitment: Initial term of 1 -3 years. Flexible hours per month 

Closing date: Wednesday 2nd July 2025

Overview 

For over 40 years Evolve Counselling has provided lowest-cost professional mental health counselling for adults in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Northamptonshire and beyond, through the skill and dedication of our team of 60+ BACP-registered counsellors.

The role 

We are looking for a new Chair who understands the growing demand for our services and the challenges of competing as a medium sized charitable business at this time. We shall look to our new Chair to build trust and engagement with our CEO, the Trustee Board, our volunteers, and supporters, as we capitalise on great recent work to stabilise and find new opportunities for significant growth. 

The new chairperson will ideally bring health and wellbeing experience and commercial skills, as well as a demonstrable empathy for charitable working and commitment to the Nolan Principles of public life. 

The role of the Chair is hugely rewarding and the scope under the leadership of the current CEO for Evolve to grow and innovate is significant. You will have significant senior leadership experience to drawn upon as you take ultimate responsibility for directing and inspiring the Trustees, making sure we are financially sustainable, and well run for our clients. Our ethos is to look upwards and outwards as we strive for a leading position in mental health services for all, and your commercial acumen, professional contacts, and powers of persuasion in business will be a huge support for our ambitions. 

Including quarterly board meetings, committee sessions (at present virtual), a face-to-face AGM event, plus away days, and regular meetings with our CEO and the trustees, we anticipate a flexible time commitment of around 2 - 5 days per month. 

For further information or an informal discussion on the role, please contact Kevin Bottrell.

Application process: Expressions of interest in the first instance by email to our CEO Gordon Ackroyd.

ShowerBox is a registered charity that has been providing free and secure showers as well as toiletries and supplies, warm drinks, snacks and haircuts to individuals facing homelessness since 2018. Our mission is to enhance our guests’ sense of physical well-being and dignity, help combat social isolation, and provide access to other essential resources such as health clinics and mobile libraries. By empowering individuals, we hope to help them make long term improvement in their lives.

Learning of individuals having passed away from preventable illnesses on the streets due to an inability to get clean and the social stigma associated with poor personal hygiene, Sarah Lamptey (our CEO) started offering weekly showers in St. Giles churchyard in Soho, London, from 2019. ShowerBox became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in 2021 and since then has been expanding nationally. Now, we operate in multiple sites – Central London, Birmingham, and Barking – either independently or in partnership. Central London remains our biggest site, followed by Birmingham and Barking, and we are in initial discussion with others. We receive our funds through philanthropy – currently supported by National Lottery Community Fund, Vitol Foundation, HS2, amongst others. 

The Board of Trustees is the ultimate governance body for the organisation, serving as stewards of the organisation’s resources, and is ultimately responsible for ShowerBox’s strategy, operations, adherence to law and regulation and financial management. The Trustees serve on a voluntary basis, and meet four or five times a year (online or in person in London).

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a Chairperson to take ShowerBox forward into an important and influential role following and building on the success it has had since becoming a CIO and expanding into 3 locations.

The Chair leads the Board of Trustees and works closely with ShowerBox’s CEO to achieve its goals. The Chair is responsible for key areas, including:

• Providing effective strategic leadership and management to the Board of Trustees enabling them to fulfill their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of ShowerBox

• Providing support to the CEO and ensuring s/he is held to account for achieving agreed strategic objectives

• Ensuring the Board meets regularly to review activities, major risks and opportunities

• Ensuring Trustees fulfill their duties and responsibilities for effective governance of ShowerBox

• Ensuring the Board is regularly refreshed and incorporates the right balance of skill, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead the charity effectively

• Conducts an annual appraisal and remuneration review of the CEO in consultation with other Trustees

• Acts as an ambassador for ShowerBox, representing it at external functions, meetings and events as appropriate and as spokesperson for the organisation when appropriate

• Ensuring financial stability and effective and efficient administration of ShowerBox

• Safeguard the good name and values of ShowerBox

Person Specification

• Interest in making a difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness/housing insecurity

• Experience serving as a Trustee or Board member (in either for-profit or non-profit organisation). Previous experience as Chair of a voluntary organisation is an advantage.

• An understanding of legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship, together with an understanding of the financial aspects of running a charity.

• An ability to work effectively as part of a team contributing an independent perspective.

• Strong leadership, people management skills and the ability to chair meetings effectively.

• Ability to devote time and effort to support a small and growing charity and fulfill the duties outlined above.

• Prepared to attend four board meetings per year (mostly online) plus one or two ad hoc committees and/or events in line with their expertise, specific interest, or as needed

Terms of Appointment

Chair of Trustees is appointed for a 2 year, renewable term. It is anticipated that the time commitment should be no more than 2 days a month but there could be occasions when extra time will be required (for instance, during planning of new projects or when dealing with unexpected situations). The role of Chair is unpaid.

Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining why you are interested in working with ShowerBox. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. 

We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria.

Job Description:

Quilombo UK is looking for a Bid Writer - Commercial Proposal Volunteer to join their team. Quilombo UK is a not for profit social enterprise that challenges people to think differently and bridge gaps between communities, with the aim of building a culturally rich society, where differences are accepted and celebrated. As chosen among 160 other organizations to work in collaboration with the Home Office on the “Building a Stronger Britain together” project, you will be joining a team, which not only supports the community but also stands up to extremism in all of its forms.

By joining Quilombo UK and QMC Capoeira School you will be supported and guided by experienced staff and volunteers, who are willing to share their skill set and will provided you with great opportunities for development in many different areas.

Ideal candidates will assist Quilombo UK in preparing funding bids that contribute to their further development. They should be well-organized, with a proactive attitude to deliver work that adheres to the key objectives of the organization. Candidates should be willing to volunteer at least 12 hours a week, for a duration of 16 weeks.

You will be volunteering as part of the team who are responsible for creating the bids to attract funding for our new or existing projects. The role will involve discussing project ideas and proposals with the management & project teams, searching for the right funding opportunities and preparing bids for submission.

You will work as part of an experienced team, where writing skills and experience in crafting persuasive and compelling content are essential.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and write commercial proposals tailored to meet the specific requirements of clients and align with business objectives.
• Review and revise previously created proposals to ensure accuracy, coherence, and alignment with current business strategies.
• Collaborate closely with other team members, partners, and stakeholders to produce high-quality bid responses, compelling content, and effective key messages that align with win themes.
• Assist in establishing a comprehensive proposal development strategy.
• Propose innovative ideas for bid submissions in line with the established strategy and market demands.
• Collect, organize, and analyze all relevant information to be included in the proposals.
• Manage a detailed “bid plan” and ensure all proposals are approved and submitted before the stipulated deadlines.

Skills and Attributes:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word.
• Ability to work with Excel is an advantage; support will be provided if necessary.
• Excellent writing skills with a strong understanding of persuasive writing and narrative structure.
• Focused, organized, and able to work efficiently under tight deadlines.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
• Some understanding of commercial market trends and research processes.

Perks:

• A supportive working environment providing opportunities to develop your skills and experience in commercial bid writing.
• Work alongside seasoned professionals eager to share their expertise.
• On-site training programs to help you grow your skill set.
• A casual yet professional office setting with snacks and drinks provided.

Job Type: Part-time

Expected hours: 12 per week

Benefits: Work from home

Schedule:

• Flexitime
• No weekends

Experience:

• Bid writer: 1 year (preferred)

Location:

• Remote (preferred)

Work Location: Remote

Join The Kids Network to Support Children in Your Hackney Community! 

Are you looking to donate your skills, give back to your community, or spend your time in a meaningful way? The Kids Network gives you the chance to make a real difference in a child’s life while developing your own skills and building connections. Support a Little Londoner in Hackney by helping them grow in confidence. Get crafty, have fun, and make a lasting impact on their future.

If you already have experience in mentoring, education, psychology, or related fields, The Kids Network provides an ideal platform to use and donate your skills. By becoming a mentor, you can actively practice your learned skills and see the direct impact of your efforts on the children in your local community and provide support to those who need it most.

Why Choose The Kids Network?

• Active Skill Application: Our programme allows you to apply your expertise in real-world settings, enhancing your practical experience.
• Structured Support: We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring you can make the most of your skills.
• Proven Impact: With 100% of children reporting increased wellbeing, you’ll see tangible impact from your mentoring.

Impact on Mentees

• Building Confidence: Help children in your community develop self-assurance and resilience.
• Creating Opportunities: Provide guidance that helps young people navigate their challenges and seize opportunities.
• Strengthening Community: Contribute to the overall wellbeing of your community, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Connection

• Personal Fulfilment: Experience the joy and satisfaction of making a positive impact on a child’s life.
• Meaningful Relationships: Form a strong bond with your mentee, providing guidance and support through fun and engaging activities.
• Community Engagement: Participate in mentor meet-ups and group activities, connecting with other mentors and mentees.

Your Role as a Mentor

As a mentor, you will hold weekly one-on-one sessions of 1-3 hours for the duration of 12 months. You will help build confidence, resilience, and help your mentee manage feelings through a series of fun experiences and activities. Whether you’re playing games or discussing goals, you’ll be making a difference in a child’s life by developing the tools for a positive future.

 Join Us Today

Whether you're wanting to use your expertise, eager to give back and make an impact, or looking for purpose and connection, The Kids Network offers a meaningful way to contribute. Volunteer with us and become part of a community dedicated to fostering positive futures for children and mentors alike.

For more information and to apply, visit The Kids Network website

Barefoot and Free is a small UK-based charity that gifts unforgettable staycations to families with neurodivergent children or children affected by trauma.

We are seeking creative and committed Volunteer Fundraisers to help us grow our small charity.

This is a remote volunteer role ideal for someone looking to use their creative fundraising knowledge to make a meaningful impact.

Role Overview
As a Volunteer Fundraiser at Barefoot and Free, you will be reuired to come up with fun ideas to fundraise, be able to engage people to fundraise and encourage new supporters.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, organise and execute virtual and in-person fundraising events (eg raffles, quizzes, sponsored challenges)
• Liase with fundraisng volunteers (eg sponsored runners etc)
• Ensure events run smoothly by preparing, schedules, materials and plans. 
• Act as a main point of contact for invividual fundraisers and teams
• Regukar communication to offer encouragement and guidence.
• Procatively check they have everything they need (eg fundraisng pack, marketing materials) 
• Create.design a central fundraising tracker (eg excel or similar) 
• Log all fundraising activities, targets, deadlines ad progress updates 
• Collaborate with the social media volunteers (if applicable) to amplify campaigns
• Support the recruitment of new fundraising volunteers

What You’ll Bring

• Clear friendly written and verbal communication
• Ability to confidently engage with fundraisers, donors and team members remotely
• Excellent time management and ability to co-ordinate multiple activities at once
• Structured approach to planning events and tracking fundraising progress
• Strong communication skills, self-motovated with the ability to work independently with minimum supervision
• A passion for charitable work and a willingness to contribute time and skills

Time Commitment
This is a flexible remote role. We ask for a commitment of 2 to 5 hours per week. We are happy to work around your availability.

What You’ll Gain

• A chance to use your skills for a good cause

• Hands-on experience in event planning, fundraising, and project coordination, ideal for CVs, job applications, or future charity roles.

• Remote, flexible volunteering that fits around your schedule — ideal for students, parents, or professionals looking to give back.

• Experience working in the charity sector

• Portfolio development and references on request
• Being part of a friendly supportive team making a difference

To apply please send a recent C.V along with a short note about yourself & with examples of any fundraising, event planning you have carried out.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? Trustees manage the affairs of our local RSPCA Branch to promote and provide animal welfare within the branch area. 

We are the Surrey East Branch of the RSPCA, and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. 

Main activities: 

• To be familiar with and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA. 

• To be familiar with our branch rules and follow them at all times. 

• To work with your fellow trustees and branch officers to jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of our branch and the RSPCA. 

• To ensure the branch meets all the minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS). Where they are not met, work with national RSPCA staff to meet the standard as soon as practicable. 

• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch support specialist (BSS), to write, adopt, monitor and review a branch development plan setting out the short and long-term aims of our branch. 

• To actively participate in branch committee meetings and attend the branch annual general meeting, and regional conference. 

• To be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives. 

• To attend the trustee training course. 

• To actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers. 

• To welcome new trustees and volunteers to the branch. 

About the RSPCA

We’re proud to be the oldest welfare charity in existence

• We were the first to introduce a law to protect animals and we work hard to ensure that all animals can live a life free from pain and suffering. 

• Through our campaigns we raise standards of care and awareness of issues for the animals who have no voice. We push for laws to be changed, improving the welfare of animals on farms, in research labs, in the wild, in paddocks or in our homes. 

• Through investigations and prosecutions, we stand up to those who deliberately harm animals to send out a clear message - we will not tolerate animal abuse. 

• Our highly trained officers tackle neglect and cruelty at every level and are working hard to stamp out large-scale serious, organised and commercial animal cruelty. 

• We believe every animal has the right to be counted as an individual. Animals can rely on us to rescue them when they need us most. To rehabilitate them wherever possible, provide them with the very best veterinary care and to find them new homes, either through rehoming or release.

What are we looking for? 

• Most people aged 18 or over are eligible to become a trustee. You will need to become a member of the RSPCA. Good interpersonal skills are important. You do not need to be an expert, although commitment, common sense and the ability to be objective is vital. 

• Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, and awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful, but not essential. 

• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and that they accept the post. 

• In addition to our standard declaration of willingness, trustees also need to complete a declaration from the Charity Commission and read their guidance for individuals on who can’t be a trustee or senior manager of a charity. 

What can we offer you? 

• It’s a great way to meet like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for animal welfare. 

• You will have the opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals. 

• New RSPCA trustees are provided with a document “Trustees handbook” and asked to attend a training course which provides information and guidance about a trustee’s role and responsibilities. 

• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch. 

• Volunteer at the heart of the local community. 

The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre is one of London’s leading producing houses. We produce world class theatre from the heart of Hammersmith. The Lyric is committed to being part of the community, and we believe passionately in excellence and integrity in everything we do.

The Lyric’s Nomination Committee is seeking a new Chair for Lyric Hammersmith Enterprises Ltd, who will also serve as a Trustee of Lyric. The subsidiary is governed by a non-executive Board of Directors, chaired by this role.  Lyric Hammersmith Enterprises is responsible the Lyric’s non-charitable trading operations including catering, hires and events. Our commercial income is critical to helping the Lyric achieve its artistic and charitable objectives.

We are looking for a Chair with influence and authority, strategic thinking and sound judgement with particular expertise in commercial operations and income generation. You will need to share a passion for our artistic work and our commitment to being an equal, diverse, inclusive and environmentally sustainable organisation.

This role will serve as a Trustee to the charity, joining the existing Board for an initial three-year term. Trustees support the Chair, Lorraine Heggessey, and offer their expertise and guidance to the Executive Team.

We are particularly interested in those who have a strong connection with West London.

Over past decades, enormous advances have been made in our understanding of MS. Research has got us to a critical point, and we can see a future where nobody needs to worry about their MS getting worse. Our Stop MS Appeal needs to raise £100 million to find treatments for everyone with MS.

Our Stop MS Champions help us reach more people and inspire them to get involved in our Stop MS Appeal by encouraging raising funds and awareness by delivering presentations, attending events and identifying new audiences to speak to. They inspire people to engage with and influence fundraisers and groups, enthuse people and make sure our community’s voice is heard.

As our Lead Stop MS Champion, you’ll motivate your team of Stop MS Champions to help reach more people and inspire them to get involved in our Stop MS Appeal.

By using your ability to motivate and support, you will oversee and lead a team of 5-10 Stop MS Champion volunteers, encouraging them to engage the people they know to raise funds and awareness, and provide reliable information and guidance.

You’ll also network to engage with and influence fundraisers and community groups, enthusing people by delivering presentations at events and finding new audiences to speak to. In this role, as well as developing your leadership, networking, influencing, communication, organisation and presentation skills, you’ll have a chance to be part of something amazing – you could help us stop MS.

Quilombo UK works with the objective to promote different arts, sports, and cultures to encourage an intercultural understanding between different communities and societies; To promote cultural awareness in the community and educate, regardless of nationality or origin, about race diversity and mutual respect; To promote good health and wellbeing; and run a community organisation with a strong focus on individuals, the community and society.

Role Overview

As a Pre-Production Assistant, you will support the Video Production Manager and team in all stages of video production, focusing primarily on the pre-production phase. Your role will be crucial in ensuring that our video projects are well-planned and executed smoothly. You will be involved in tasks ranging from script writing to stage setting, ensuring that all necessary preparations are in place for successful video production.

Main Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Video Production Manager to develop and refine scripts for various video projects, conducting research to gather relevant information and insights to inform script content.

• Assist in planning and setting up stages for video shoots, including arranging props, lighting, and other necessary equipment, and coordinate with the production team to ensure all stage elements are in place.

• Work with the Video Production Manager to create detailed production schedules and timelines, and coordinate with cast, crew, and other stakeholders to ensure everyone is informed of shoot dates and times.

• Assist in identifying and securing suitable locations for video shoots, conducting site visits to assess the suitability of locations and addressing any logistical considerations.

• Organize and manage all pre-production materials and resources, including scripts, shot lists, and production notes, ensuring all necessary permits and permissions are obtained for filming locations.

• Act as a point of contact between the pre-production team and other departments, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration, and provide regular updates to the Video Production Manager on the progress of pre-production tasks.

Essential

• Working Knowledge of pre- production

• Good interpersonal skills with ability to get on with people at all levels.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

• Creativity and attention to detail in script writing and stage setting.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.

• Basic IT understanding

• Experience in camera set-ups for live events /ob-doc /scripted content

• Appropriate DIT practices for media management 

• Working knowledge of audio production and basic audio set-ups for live events and recorded audio. 

• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments

• Strong team player

• Working knowledge of file codecs and wrappers

• Digital Asset Management (Utilising enterprise versions of Google Drive etc).

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate

• Working Knowledge of Pre production Video Production Editing Platforms: After Effects, Da Vinci Resolve

• 3-5 + years of production in broadcast and film

• Understanding of broadcast acquisition standards for file deliveries

When needed:

Willing to volunteer at least 12 hours a week, for a duration of 16 weeks as part of a Personal Development Program (PDP).

Production roles are hyrbid therefore proximity to London is beneficial as trips to Kingston will need to be made, with reasonable travel expenses paid. 

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated. 

Make a difference in your community – join us as a Trustee

Crossroads Care South East London is a trusted, long-standing charity providing vital support to unpaid carers and those they care for. As we continue to grow and evolve to meet increasing demand, we are seeking passionate and committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees in the following non-remunerated roles:

1. Are you experienced in safeguarding and want to ensure vulnerable individuals are protected and empowered?

We are looking for a Trustee with a strong background in safeguarding, preferably in social care, health, education, or a related sector. As our lead Trustee on safeguarding, you will:

• Provide strategic oversight of safeguarding policies and practices

• Support and challenge the executive team to uphold best safeguarding standards

• Ensure the charity meets its legal and ethical obligations to service users, staff, and volunteers

Ideal Individual will have:

• Experience in safeguarding roles or policy implementation

• An understanding of safeguarding within voluntary or care sectors

• A commitment to creating safe, inclusive environments

2. Fundraising Trustee

Do you have a background in fundraising, marketing, or income generation? Help us build sustainable funding for the future.

We are seeking a Trustee who can help guide our fundraising strategy, strengthen donor relationships, and support innovative income development. As Fundraising Trustee, you will:

• Provide strategic input into fundraising plans and campaigns

• Support the team in identifying new funding opportunities

• Champion our cause to potential supporters and funders

Ideal Individual will have:

• Experience in fundraising, philanthropy, or business development

• Knowledge of grant funding, corporate partnerships, or individual giving

• A strategic mindset and willingness to leverage networks

3. Lived Experience Trustee

Have you been an unpaid carer or received support from care services? Your insight is invaluable.

We believe the voices of those with direct, lived experience should shape the way we support our community. As a Trustee with lived experience, you will:

• Bring unique perspectives to decision-making

• Help ensure our services are person-centred and responsive

• Represent the needs of carers and cared-for individuals on our Board

Ideal Individual will have:

• Experience as an unpaid carer or recipient of care services

• A passion for advocacy, inclusion, and social change

• Willingness to learn about governance and contribute to strategic discussions

What We Offer:

• A meaningful opportunity to make a real difference to unpaid carers and families

• A welcoming, collaborative Board and senior leadership team

• Induction, training, and ongoing support to help you succeed

• Flexible commitment, including quarterly Board meetings and occasional subcommittees

Join our ever expanding team of therapists to deliver face to face counselling to anyone over the age of 18 years, in South West London.

You will become part of an organisation that is passionate about providing support for the local community, along with therapists from a diverse range of backgrounds.

We offer

• Free fortnightly supervision
• Appraisals and feedback for institutions
• Support from counselling and admin team
• Free training and CPD

We ask for therapists to:

• Have completed at least 100 hours of face to face, supervised clinical experience completed. Relevant work / life experience will be considered.
• Be qualified to Level 5 diploma level or be enrolled on the 2nd year of a BACP or UKCP accredited course.
• Be able to commit to three clients a week, for a minimum of 2 years.
• Attend personal therapy throughout their placement while a trainee.
• Attend fortnightly Richmond AID supervision.
• Hold membership of their relevant awarding body

The Landmark Arts Centre is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to continue their journey. The independent charity responsible for operating one of the largest multidisciplinary arts venues in south-west London.

Who they are

The Landmark is an independent Arts Charity responsible for operating one of the largest multidisciplinary arts venues in south-west London. For 30 years, they have been a vital cultural and creative hub for all. Housed in a stunning Grade II* listed building in Teddington, they welcome over 50,000 people annually to a rich programme of performances, classes, workshops, art fairs, exhibitions, and entertainment.

The role

They are seeking a Chairperson able to:

Be an enthusiastic advocate and ambassador of the Landmark Arts Centre and the arts in general.

Shape the future next steps to build on what they have already achieved and ensure they are able to deliver on the potential that their magnificent space offers to audiences and artists.

Work with the community and its leaders, the trustees, and the staff team in promoting well-considered strategic decision-making, effective oversight, and a culture of inclusion.

Letter from Imelda Redmond, our chair of trustees

The current Board is a welcoming, collegiate and energetic group, working hard to make a positive impact on the lives of older people in Tower Hamlets, Newham and Hackney. I joined the organisation a year ago as chair and am enjoying steering the organisation through an exciting period of transformation as we implement our new, and ambitious, five year strategy. AUKEL has sound finances and a strong reputation for its service delivery (Hospital to Home service, community services, digital inclusion and Information and Advice). From this strong base, the organisation has an ambition to amplify the voices of older people within our communities and to create a more collaborative culture which both improves the connectedness of our services and also strengthens our relationships with local voluntary, statutory, community and faith groups. We are looking for someone with the time, passion and expertise we need to work collegiately with trustee colleagues to lead the organisation through this next exciting phase.

Yours,

Imelda Redmond

AUKEL Chair of trustees

About us Age

UK East London (AUKEL) is a local independent charity, which is part of the national Age UK network. We work across Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Newham to deliver services which support older people to live healthier, happier and more fulfilled lives.

Our work

Each year we support around 20,000 older East Londoners by providing flexible practical and emotional support in homes, hospitals and in the community.

Our boroughs have the country’s highest pensioner poverty in the country, further exacerbated by the current cost of living crisis.

How we help

1. We tackle poverty

Each year our advice service supports over 2,000 older people to claim £3.2million in welfare benefits, grants and relief entitlements. During the cost-of-living crisis we distributed £42,000 worth of emergency vouchers for food, helping older people ensure there was food in the fridge.

2. We alleviate loneliness

According to a national model, Tower Hamlets has the highest rates of loneliness in London and in England. Our East End Friends initiative teams housebound older people who’d like a bit more company with a volunteer to visit them at home. 92% of older people said they felt less isolated and lonely and 100% of volunteers would recommend the scheme.

3. We improve health.

Many older people in our boroughs have very poor health. For example, at age 65, women can expect just six more years of good health, which is the lowest in London and almost the lowest in England. This reduces their quality of life and can make it harder to remain independent. As well as increasing income and addressing loneliness (both determinants of health) we offer yoga, walking, and chair-based exercise groups at our community centre in Bow. 87% of participants said they are more independent as a result.

4. We increase independence.

Many older people live alone and struggle to manage around the home. Our home from hospital service supports 3,000 older people to return to a safe and warm home. Just 6% are readmitted to hospital within 28 days compared to 15.3% in areas where there aren’t these services.

The Team

We have an established and talented Senior Management Team, a committed staff team and an extraordinary group of volunteers. Two years ago, the board recruited a new Chief Executive. She is ambitious for the charity, comes with a great track-record of charity leadership, and has worked hard with trustees to develop our new organisational strategy.

Who we are looking for

We want our trustees to understand the community we serve and are therefore specifically looking for applicants who live in and/or have strong connections with Hackney, Tower Hamlets or Newham. Additionally, we are determined to increase the diversity of the current Board in line with our organisational EDI Objectives. For this reason, we are actively seeking candidates from the Global Majority (all non-white ethnic groups, including Black, Asian, and other groups previously labelled as "ethnic minorities" or ‘BAME’).

Previous experience in the voluntary sector, adult social care, NHS, or similar relevant experience to the work of AUKEL would be helpful. As would communications/marketing experience. However, this is potentially a developmental role where you will gain knowledge and experience of charity governance – so the most important thing is your commitment to our organisational aims and your local connection.

You must want to improve the lives of older people across East London and understand the impact disadvantage and discrimination has on the life chances of our local population. You will be curious, collaborative and ambitious and able to commit to an average of one-to two days a quarter (most meetings are in the evenings).

If you're new to being a trustee, we can offer additional training and pair you with a fellow trustee as a ‘buddy’ to help guide you. They’ll be there to walk you through trustee materials, answer any questions, and provide support along the way.

Full role description can be found in appendix 1

What I get out of being on the AUKEL Board

'I continue to be impressed with the extent of the help AUKEL provides in our communities. The need for the service is increasing as the cost-of-living crisis deepens. I see the Trustee role as an enabling role. I enjoy rolling up my sleeves alongside my fellow trustees to tackle some challenging issues with our combined skill sets. I particularly enjoy working on the new People sub-committee and I can sense a renewed enthusiasm for finding ways to optimise the Trustee contribution.' (Teresa, a current trustee)

New Trustees will complete an induction to the organisation and the Board. This will include site visits and meetings with the CEO, Senior Management Team, Chair and Board members. During your induction you’ll have the opportunity to really understand our services and get to know our team. You’ll be able to ask any questions you want and visit any service you wish!

Time commitment

The full Board meets quarterly on Wednesdays from 6.00 – 8.00pm in our Hackney centre.

We hope that all our trustees additionally sit on a sub-committee which reflects their interests and/or expertise. All the Committees meet quarterly the Finance Committee meets on Thursdays from 6.00 – 8.00pm usually face to face in Bethnal Green, the People Committee 5 meets quarterly on Mondays from 6.00-7.30pm online, and the Service Development Committee usually meets from 6.00-7.30pm on Thursdays online.

Travel expenses can be reimbursed.

Board members may be asked to commit additional time to support staff recruitment, review tenders and share expertise.

The agenda and papers for each meeting are usually emailed to Trustees a week in advance.

How to apply

If you are interested in being considered for this role please submit your CV/LinkedIn profile with a covering letter explaining why you wish to join the charity and the skills/experience you will bring to the Board.Please visit our website for the recruitment email address.

Potential candidates are welcome to have an informal conversation about the role. Please visit our website for the recruitment email address.

Closing date is the 30th of June.

Appendix 1

Trustee role description

The Board is responsible for the smooth-running of the organisation and supporting the Chief Executive. You will be supporting our 70+ members of staff and part of our 80+ strong volunteer team. You will also have the opportunity to learn about how to tackle the challenges that our beneficiaries face, and how to deliver appropriate co-produced services that enrich older people’s lives and enhance the whole community of East London.

Main tasks

• Contribute to Board meetings, helping to give firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting policy and targets and evaluating performance.
• Make decisions for the benefit of Age UK East London, exercising independent judgement and declaring any interests, exercising reasonable skill, care and diligence in carrying out activities.
• Be familiar with the rules that govern Age UK East London (Articles of Association) and make sure we follow those, Charity Law, Company Law and all other relevant legislation and regulations.
• Ensure the organisation’s financial stability, overseeing the setting of the budget and monitoring variance against the budget (the Board also has a Finance Sub-Committee to help oversee this).
• Ensure that we use our resources in line with our Articles and the requirements of funders, and that our accounts are a ‘fair and true’ representation of our finances.
• Safeguard the values of Age UK East London a maintain positive reputation for the organisation and its work.

Person specification

We’re looking for someone who:

• Cares about older people and wants to make a positive difference in their lives.
• Is open-minded, fair, and respectful, and values the opinions and experiences of others.
• Understands equity, diversity, and inclusion and its impact on older people and organizational practices
• Is committed to the charity’s mission, values, and social impact.
• Is reliable, committed and can dedicate some time to attending meetings and getting involved in the charity’s work.
• Is willing to learn about the charity’s work, the role of a trustee, and the challenges older people face.
• Can work well with others as part of a team, sharing ideas and supporting the charity’s goals.

It would be helpful (but not essential) if you:

• Have personal or professional experience with older people, or an understanding of the issues they face.
• Have lived experience or a connection to the charity’s mission.