Volunteer roles

SUMMARY

Roles Description: Treasurer and Campaigning/Mobilisation Trustee

Remuneration: Like most Trustee roles, these roles are unremunerated

Reports to: Chair of the Board of Trustees

Start date:  As soon as possible

Benefits:  In addition to making a real difference in the lives of and deepening your understanding of youth organising,, you will receive:

• Safeguarding Training and support in developing expertise here
• Reimbursement of expenses incurred in your role

At The Advocacy Academy, we envision a world where young people with lived experience of injustice (LEofI) harness their collective power to shape a more fair, just, and equal society. Our mission is to organise and support these young people to drive systemic change on the most pressing issues of our time. 

We do this by offering deep coaching, delivering transformative leadership programmes, and creating clear pathways for sustained action. Through shared learning and community-building, we help young leaders build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to launch and lead proactive campaigns. We also recognise that real change starts from within - so we’re committed to a governance structure that is values-driven, participatory, and beyond reproach, ensuring TAA is as accountable to young people as it is to the communities we serve and its wider responsibilities.

We’re now looking to recruit three new Trustees to join our Board and help steer this work. We're especially keen to hear from people with leadership experience in one or more of the following areas: Finance, Treasurer, Community Organising and Campaigns.

Trustees of The Advocacy Academy play a unique role in delivery of our mission. They are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation, represent it to the community, and accept ultimate compliance authority for the charity and its activities. As a Trustee with experience in the UK’s youth sector, you will support the Board and the Executives in ensuring that TAA continues to deliver an exceptional quality of youth work, and the role that safeguarding plays in achieving this. As a trustee:

• Work with the Chair, Trustees and Senior Leadership team (SLT) to ensure there is a clear, long-term and strategic vision The Advocacy Academy.
• Work with the Board to ensure we function within the financial requirements of a UK registered charity and company, our constitution and that we strive for best practice
• Take responsibility with the other trustees so that the charity has effective practice to safeguard the people it works with
• Act as an ambassador, spokesperson and champion our work supporting our income activities, and fostering networks that can help generate income.

About Our Board of Trustees

• Our Board currently consists of six members, recruited, selected, and approved by the Board of Trustees.
• Each trustee serves a three-year term, and we are made up of individuals from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.
• The Board meets quarterly (four times per year) to provide strategic oversight and governance. Operations/day to day are managed by the Executives.
• Given the size of the board, we expect all trustees to join at least one subcommittee meeting per year, unless there are extenuating circumstances. The subcommittee meets are typically held prior to full Board meetings.
• Board meetings are held at our Liberation Centre in Brixton and subcommittee meets are held virtually
• The role of trustee is voluntary, though reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
• Trustees are expected to prepare in advance by reading reports and meeting papers, and are also warmly invited to attend our events throughout the year.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

1. The Campaigning/Mobilisation Trustee - will provide mobilisation and campaigns governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Director of Organising and Campaigns and fellow trustees, they will:

• Provide strategic oversight of The Advocacy Academy’s organising and campaigning activities and priorities.
• Ensure campaigns are ethical, legally compliant, and aligned with the organisation’s values.
• Support the development of effective, youth-led organising and campaigning strategies.
• Offer insight into advocacy trends, movement-building, and political landscapes.
• Serve as a sounding board for the team, offering critical friend feedback without operational interference.
• Help the board assess risks and opportunities related to public positioning, reputation, and partnerships.
• Good governance, diversity and teamwork are at the core of the Board’s values. We want to ensure trustees represent the young people we work with and we are particularly interested in applications from people with lived experience.

2. The Treasurer - will provide charity financial governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Finance Director and the Finance & Risk Committee and fellow Trustees, they will:

• Provide support on financial oversight and ensure compliance with relevant charity and regulatory requirements.
• Review and co-present financial reports and key insights to the Board of Trustees.
• Actively participate in the Finance and Risk Committee, ensuring effective financial scrutiny.
• Strategic contribution to long-term financial and fundraising planning and support the organisation’s risk management framework.
• Attend Finance and Risk subcommittee meetings quarterly

PERSON SPECIFICATION  

1. The Campaigning/Mobilisation Trustee -

• Understanding of power-building, community organising, or movement strategy (essential).
• Experience in grassroots organising and campaigns, advocacy, or social justice movements.
• Familiarity with political or social justice contexts in the UK.
• Willingness to support youth leadership and work in solidarity with young campaigners.
• Previous board or governance experience is helpful but not essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

2. The Treasurer -

• Proven expertise in charity fundraising and financial management.
• Experience of charity finance and fundraising is essential.
• Experience of supporting organisational growth
• Previous board or trustee experience.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

EXPECTATIONS & ENTITLEMENT  

• Attend at least one training programme that we run, so that you understand the work we deliver
• Attend trustee meetings, which are held four times a year in London or virtually, and last between 3  -4 hours - trustees are expected to attend at least three each year.
• Participate in one of our sub-committees as may be required by the trustee role.
• Demonstrate commitment to The Advocacy Academy by supporting fundraising efforts.
• Serve for a term of three years and be able to stand for re-election for a further term and
• possibly two.
• Work with the Chair to review your performance
• Claim reasonable travel and accommodation expenses to attend meetings

This is an outline of the responsibilities and duties of the Trustee roles, it is not intended as an exhaustive list and may change from time to time to meet the changing needs of The Advocacy Academy’s board. Any changes will be made in consultation with the post holders.

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply to be our Trustee by sending your CV together with a supporting statement to us - Your supporting statement should explain why you would like to be our Trustee and the contribution you believe you would make to The Advocacy Academy, with particular reference to the specific Trustee role and Requirements above. 

If you have any questions please email us using the email listed on the job description

DATES  

Closing Date: The deadline for applications is 24th September 2026 at 10:00am.

First Round of Interviews: will be scheduled for 28th -30th September 2026 (Dates are subject to change)

Second Round of Interviews: will be scheduled for 6th -7th October 2026 (Dates are subject to change)

A NOTE ON USING AI TOOLS IN YOUR APPLICATION

We understand that AI tools like ChatGPT can be helpful when preparing an application, and you’re welcome to use them as a support. However, we’re most interested in hearing directly from you. Please ensure your application reflects your own voice, experiences, and perspective.

We value the unique insights, lived experiences, and ways of thinking that each candidate brings. These are what help us understand who you are and what you would bring to the role, and they are an important part of how we assess applications.

If you require any adjustments or support during the application process, please don’t hesitate to let us know. we’re committed to making our recruitment process as accessible and inclusive as possible.

NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US  

We aim to be representative of the community we are working with. We encourage applications from people of colour, those who identify as LGBTQIA, working class as well as disabled people, those living with mental health conditions, refugees and migrants. We welcome people from all identities who are made to feel marginalised.

We’re not just committed to being an equal opportunity employer, we actively celebrate diversity in all its forms. Let us know if we can do anything to make the application or interview process more accessible. If you are invited to interview, we will at that point ask you for any accessibility requirements or preferences.
As an employer we make all reasonable adjustments to support employees in their work if they are disabled or have a health condition. We support the Access to Work scheme which could provide you with financial support to get the help you need to do all tasks successfully. We are happy to facilitate Access to Work assessments and reclaims, and would actively welcome applicants who would need this in order to do the job.

All staff who work on our programme must have, prior to starting work, a returned satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dated no earlier than 1st January 2021. The Advocacy Academy will assist the application for, and pay for the processing of, a new DBS for staff members where required. 

We welcome applications from people with convictions. Please disclose in your application if you have any convictions, cautions, reprimands or final warnings that are not “protected” (as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013)). We consider each person on their own merits, taking into account all the circumstances.

Chair of the Board of Trustees 

Mind in Salford 

Location: Salford / Hybrid 

Contract: Voluntary Trustee position 

Time commitment: Approximately 1- to 1.5-days per month 

Would you like to use your leadership and governance experience to help shape the future of a charity making a lasting difference to the mental health and wellbeing of people across Salford? 

Mind in Salford is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead its Board and support the charity as it builds on over 50 years of providing vital local mental health services. 

About Mind in Salford 

Mind in Salford is an independent, user-focused charity committed to ensuring local people experiencing mental health problems receive the support and respect they deserve. 

The charity provides a range of services including advocacy, welfare rights and debt advice, mindfulness, mental health training and specialist support for the LGBTQ+ community through its Rainbow Mind programme. 

With an experienced Senior Leadership Team and a Board that is going through a period of transition, this is an opportunity for a new Chair to strengthen Board effectiveness, support the development of new Trustees and help shape the charity’s next chapter. 

About the Role 

The Chair will provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring effective governance, sound decision-making and a clear focus on Mind in Salford’s charitable purpose. 

In this role, you will lead and develop an effective, inclusive and high-performing Board, Chair meetings, build a strong, constructive relationship with the Chief Executive and represent the Charity and help develop relationships with key partners and supporters. 

About You 

They are looking for someone with senior strategic leadership experience and a strong understanding of charity governance, who can lots of emotional intelligence and sound judgement to the role. 

You will bring: 

• Experience of working with a charity Board or in a senior non-executive role. 

• A strong understanding of the duties and responsibilities of charity Trustees. 

• The ability to chair meetings effectively, build consensus and manage challenging conversations. 

• Experience of providing strategic oversight of finance, risk and organisational performance. 

• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills. 

• A genuine commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. 

Knowledge of health and social care, or a related sector, would be valuable. A connection to Salford and its communities is also important. 

Commitment 

The Board meets every two months, alongside a Finance sub-committee which meets four times a year. Trustees are expected to prepare for meetings, review papers in advance and contribute actively to Board discussions. As Chair you will be expected to meet regularly with the CEO and provide support outside of the formal meeting structure. 

This is a voluntary position, although reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed. The initial term is three years, with a maximum of three terms. 

How to Apply 

To apply, please click Apply Now below. You will need to include: 

• An up-to-date CV. 

• A covering statement of no more than two pages outlining how you meet the requirements of the role and the value you would bring as Chair. 

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact our recruitment partners, Atkinson HR Consulting. Contact information can be found on the Candidate Information Pack and website. 

Key Dates 

Closing date: Tuesday 29 September 2026 at 12 noon 

Interview date: Friday 16 October 2026 (in person) 

Gardening Volunteer

Location: Amadeus House, 18 Corfton Road, Ealing, London, W5 2HT

Timings: Flexible

About Waythrough

Waythrough provides specialist support across mental health, alcohol, drugs and related areas. We delivery high-quality, evidence-based services designed around the real needs of the people we serve.

Every year, we support around 125,000 people through over 250 services - and it's all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.

Make a real difference in your community 

Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change. 

The Crisis Recovery House supports people experiencing a mental health crisis, as an alternative to hospital admission, where appropriate. It also helps individuals discharged from hospital who need a brief period of intensive support.

As a Gardening Volunteer, you’ll work alongside staff and residents to care for the garden at Amadeus House and to co‑create engaging gardening sessions. Together, you’ll help maintain an inclusive, therapeutic outdoor space by sharing gardening skills, supporting hands‑on tasks, and contributing ideas for seasonal or themed activities. Your involvement will help make the garden a shared, welcoming environment that supports residents’ wellbeing and recovery.

Tasks may include:

• Taking a lead role in the garden’s day‑to‑day care and upkeep, working collaboratively with staff and residents.
• Maintaining the garden so it remains safe, tidy, welcoming, and vibrant — including planting, watering, pruning, and general tidying.
• Organising and delivering gardening sessions with residents, teaching and learning basic gardening skills together in an inclusive way.
• Supporting residents with hands‑on tasks such as planting, weeding, composting, and harvesting.
• Planning and delivering seasonal gardening activities (e.g., spring planting, autumn tidy‑ups) in collaboration with residents and staff.
• Helping develop themed areas such as herb gardens, raised beds, or flower and vegetable plots, encouraging shared ownership and creativity.
• Accompanying residents on visits to garden centres or local green spaces as part of gardening projects.
• Bringing enthusiasm, encouragement, and imagination to help make the garden a therapeutic and enjoyable shared space.
• Fostering teamwork, creativity, and a sense of collective pride in the garden.

Skills/qualities we would like you to bring to the role:

• Hands-on gardening knowledge with an enthusiasm for helping others grow their skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, along with basic IT confidence.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to keep track of tasks and share updates with the team.
• A caring, patient and non‑judgmental approach when working with people with lived experience of mental health challenges.
• Reliability and good time‑keeping.
• The ability to work collaboratively with staff and residents, while also being comfortable taking initiative or following guidance.
• An understanding of Waythrough’s work and a genuine interest in contributing to our mission and values.
• A commitment to maintaining confidentiality, professional boundaries, and Waythrough policies, and to engaging in supervision and completing relevant training (including safeguarding, boundaries, cyber security, DEIB, and health & safety).

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy:

• Discounts from various schemes

• Training and personal development

• A chance to make a real difference in people’s lives

• Free induction and role-specific training

• Support from experienced staff and regular supervision

• Opportunities to meet new people and develop your confidence

• Reimbursement for travel and agreed expenses

• Valuable experience that can support your personal or career development

Inclusion and accessibility 

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. 

We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme  - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.

SarcoidosisUK is looking for a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board and support the next stage
of our development. We are seeking someone with ambition and strategic experience to continue
the amazing support for those affected by sarcoidosis and drive forward progress to future proof
the Charity. This is a significant voluntary role for someone with strong board or senior governance
experience who can lead the charity and act as ambassador.

About us
SarcoidosisUK is a small charity with big ambitions! We want to make a difference to the lives of
those affected by sarcoidosis in the UK by providing information and support, raising awareness
and undertaking research into treatments and a cure. We currently support over 9,000 people
online and have strong relationships with both clinicians and patients.

The role
The Chair provides leadership to the Board of Trustees and works closely with the Senior Executive
to ensure the charity is well-governed, financially sound, and delivering on its charitable
objectives.

Key responsibilities include:
 Leading the Board and helping set the strategic direction of the charity.
 Maintaining a culture that directly reflects the charity’s values and mission.
 Ensuring the Board fulfils its legal, regulatory and compliance responsibilities.
 Setting the agenda for Board meetings and ensuring robust, inclusive decision-making.
 Acting as a critical friend and line manager to the Senior Executive.
 Ensuring performance, risks and finances are monitored effectively.
 Acting as ambassador for the charity.

About you:
We are looking for someone who:
 Has previous Board-level experience (Chair or senior Trustee experience desirable).
 Demonstrates strong leadership, facilitation, and influencing skills.
 Understands the responsibilities and legal duties of charity trustees.
 Is able to commit the time and energy required for the role.
 Shares a passion for our cause and values.
 Ideally has first hand or close family experience of sarcoidosis.

Time commitment
This is a voluntary role.
The Board meets online early evening 10 times a year for no more than 2 hours each time and
meetings are friendly and informal. Trustees have a variety of backgrounds and can contribute
time and expertise outside of meetings to supporting the development of the charity.
Regular contact with the Senior Executive and 2 staff as part of operational oversight. The office is
based in London and we have hybrid working.

Application
If you would like to know more about the charity and this particular opportunity, please contact
Sue Wilson, the current Chair of Trustees, who will arrange a time to discuss this role in more detail.

Applications should outline the skills and experience you would bring to the role and tell us why
you are personally interested in leading the charity which supports the sarcoidosis community in
the UK.

Applications close 9am on Monday 14 September 2026.

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Cannock.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application formas fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Derby.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Wolverhampton.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Coventry.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Stafford.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application formas fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Stoke on Trent.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

Are you passionate about wanting to help young people? 

Do you have 2 to 4 hours to spare, once a month? 

Are you ready to make a long-term, regular, commitment? 

If the answer is yes and you would like to support a child or young person currently in the care of their local authority, then we would love to hear from you. 

Our Independent Visitor Service is looking for volunteers in or near to Newcastle under Lyme.

For many children and young people living in foster care can be unsettling. You can make a difference by volunteering as an Independent Visitor. 

We are looking for fun, reliable, and pro-active volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds and experiences who have a genuine interest in making a difference to the lives of children and young people. 

You will decide with your young person what to do, but activities could include going to the cinema, bowling, playing football, going to a restaurant, riding a bike, or walking in a park. We will match you with a child you share common interests with. 

You do not need experience of working with children and young people, just an interest in their development and welfare. Full training and support are provided 

Here’s a few of the young people we have waiting for a volunteer: 

• Amy (12) lives with an older carer, she would like an active Independent Visitor who can do sports with her. 

• Brad (13) lives in residential care with other young people, he doesn’t have anyone in his family visit. He would like an Independent Visitor to take him out and have fun, like the other young people. 

• Cassie (16) lives with carers in a new town, she doesn’t have any friends in the area yet. She would like an Independent Visitor to help with her confidence and going out in the local area, she loves hot chocolate and cake. 

• Danny (11) lives with foster carers and attends a special school. He would like an Independent Visitor to help him be more independent, he likes parks, aeroplanes, and animals. 

• Emma (9) lives with her carer in a very busy household, she would like an Independent Visitor to spend some time with her on her own trying different activities together. 

*names have been changed 

The Application 

• Volunteering mainly happens at weekends and after school hours as the young people are usually in school during the daytime 

• The role requires commitment of at least 24 months with one visit per month; this ensures stability for the Child or Young Person 

• Complete the Personal Statement section on the application form as fully as possible; tell us all about you; it forms part of the shortlisting process 

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

From elderly moggies to energic kittens, every day across the UK cats and kittens are in need of a temporary place to stay, and lots of love and TLC! We need more fosterers like you to provide a safe, temporary haven for cats and kittens and provide them with everything they need before they get their chance to land on their four paws and make a house a home.

You can expect us to 

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Ensure you have all you need in place to foster the cat(s) in your care, for example equipment and food
• Cover all your foster cats’ expenses and agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you 

• A stable, safe and compassionate environment in your home or in a purpose-built pen in your garden provided by us
• Enrich the cats’ experience in care including play, exercise and appropriate handling/interaction
• A willingness to complete some training in order to provide high standards of cat welfare
• Introduce cats to prospective adopters so they can find their forever home
• You can find out more about being a Fosterer on our website

Time expectation

Our volunteer fosterers usually spend around one and a half hours per day (around 10 to 13 hours per week) in this role, but this might vary depending on the number of cats or kittens in care.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for! 

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

We’ve got an exciting opportunity for a volunteer to support our Fundraising Team!
 

Role Description

We are looking for one or two Christmas fair coordinators. Our Christmas Fair is a large festive community fundraising event held at Warmley Community Centre, running across a single Sunday in late November from 10.30am to 4pm. It brings together our own Bristol A.R.C. stalls alongside third party stallholders, and includes a festive pet photoshoot, a dog show, live music, a bake sale, raffle and tombolas, refreshments and children’s activities. It is one of our key community events of the year and a really lovely day out for local people and their pets.

This is an event coordination volunteer role leading on the organising of the fair, with the help and support of the Philanthropy and Partnerships Manager and the Fundraising Partnerships Officer in the office, as well as some other volunteers supporting the event.

This will be the fair’s second year, so a full and detailed handover is already in place, along with ongoing support from the two staff members named above and a group of volunteers who have helped to organise it before.
 

What would I be doing as a Volunteer Christmas Fair Coordinator?

As part of this role, you will be:

• Helping with the overall planning and coordination of the Christmas Fair, keeping everything on track in the months leading up to the event.
• Being the main point of contact for the venue, Warmley Community Centre, including agreeing the room layout and putting together a floor plan for the day.
• Assisting in recruiting, supporting and coordinating the team of event volunteers, including helping to run volunteer information sessions, allocating roles, creating the volunteer timetable, and keeping everyone informed and confident in the lead up to the day. 
• Recruiting and liaising with third party stallholders, including managing their bookings, stall fees, agreements and raffle prize donations. 
• Coordinating our own Bristol A.R.C. stalls and attractions, such as the children’s activities, the pet items shop, the bake sale, teddy adoption, the raffle and tombolas, and refreshments.
• Organising the key attractions that make the day special, including the festive pet photo shoot, the dog show and the live music, working with the volunteers and contacts who help to run them.
• Securing donations of prizes and items from local businesses and community groups for the raffle, tombolas and other stalls.
• Facilitating promotion of the event alongside the staff team, including posters, banners, local press and social media, and keeping track of where everything has been shared.
• Organising the preparation in the run up to the fair, such as the volunteer craft and prep evenings, sorting the floats and card payment setup, and getting the signage, floor plan and logistics ready.
• Overseeing the smooth set up and running of the event on the day, coordinating the volunteer team so that everything runs well from start to finish.
• Helping to make sure the event is safe and well run, including the risk assessment, first aid cover and allergen requirements, again with the support of the staff team.

What’s important for me to know?

here will be ongoing support from the Philanthropy and Partnerships Manager and the Fundraising Partnerships Officer, a detailed handover from last year’s fair, and an existing group of experienced volunteers who have helped to run the event before.

A lot of the groundwork is already in place from the first year, including templates, supplier and stallholder contacts, venue arrangements and tried and tested ways of doing things, so the volunteer would be building on solid foundations rather than starting from scratch. 

This would be a brilliant opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience in event coordination and community fundraising, or for anyone who simply loves the idea of leading a joyful, festive event that raises vital funds for the animals in our care.

How are the shifts arranged, and how often would I volunteer?

This is a short term role running from September to late November, Initially your shift would be typically once a week, on the same day at the same time. We’re looking for someone who is available on a Thursday, preferably.  Occasionally during this time this role will involve some evening availability, mainly for speaking with the wider volunteer team and for the craft and preparation evenings in the lead up to the event. You would ideally be available for the full day of the fair itself, which runs on a Sunday in late November, with an early start for set up. 

What other dates do I need to be available for?

Subject to shortlisting, we shall be holding informal volunteer interviews for this role during September. If you are offered the role, initial on-site training for the role will begin in September.

Who will I be volunteering with?

• Our Philanthropy and Partnerships Manager and the Fundraising Partnerships Officer, will be the people you will volunteer alongside directly
• The office is also where the marketing and communications team work.
• You will be volunteering alongside a team of events volunteers and staff at the fair.

What skills and attributes might I need for this role, ideally?

Experience, enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved is always useful, and we would welcome hearing in particular about how you are:

• Organised, with the ability to keep track of lots of different moving parts and plan ahead over a number of months.
• Confident and friendly when working with people, as the role involves speaking with staff, volunteers, stallholders and the venue, and being a welcoming point of contact throughout.
• A natural coordinator who is happy leading a team of volunteers, allocating roles and keeping everyone informed and motivated in the lead up to the day.
• Good communication skills, both written and in person, for things like stallholder bookings, volunteer emails and promoting the event.
• Calm and adaptable, especially on the day itself, when things can be busy and the occasional last minute change is all part of it.
• Reliable and proactive, able to take the lead and keep things moving with the support of the staff team.
• A genuine enthusiasm for the work of Bristol A.R.C. and for creating a welcoming community event for local people and their pets.
• An interest in event organising or fundraising.

What can I hope to get out of the experience?

• We will offer you the training and guidance you need in your role. This will include general information, as well as specifics about volunteering as an event coordinator.
• The chance to experience coordination an event
• Ongoing support from the Fundraising team and a designated Volunteer Supervisor, as well as the Volunteer Coordinators
• We hope you will enjoy using your existing skills or gaining new ones, and getting to know the members of our team
• The chance to learn about animal rescue and the ‘behind the scenes’ aspects of an animal welfare organisation
• Occasions to make new friends or connections through your volunteering

When do I need to apply by?

We close for applications at 5pm on Monday 7th September.

Thank you very much for considering a role with us.

Why do we need you?

Are you passionate about Yorkshire’s wildlife? Could you help shape how The Trust builds the support it needs to protect it?

We are looking for Volunteer Advisors to join our Fundraising & Engagement Committee — bringing external expertise and challenge to help the Trust grow and diversify its income, deepen community engagement, and build the supporter base needed to deliver our charitable objectives.

The Trust was established in 1946, through the acquisition of our founding nature reserve, Askham Bog in York. Since then, we have grown into an organisation of nearly 200 staff and around 900 volunteers, working with local communities to foster understanding of the climate and nature crises and inspire action. We directly manage over 100 nature reserves across Yorkshire’s upland and lowland landscapes, coast and marine environment.

Our ambition now is to broaden our reach, engaging and inspiring more people across the region — and to further diversify and grow our income, so we can do even more for wildlife and wild places.

What will you be doing?

We believe the best committees bring together different perspectives, and experience from outside the conservation sector is a real asset here — the fresh thinking it brings is exactly what strengthens this Committee. That said, if you do have a conservation background, that's welcome too. We are particularly interested in people with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Digital expertise, particularly in communications and marketing
• High-value fundraising, from any sector — major donors, corporate partnerships, legacy giving
• Mass engagement and campaigning, especially reaching younger audiences
• Visitor experience, with a strong customer focus — for example from a visitor attraction background