Human rights volunteer volunteer roles

Oxfam Volunteers – Ulverston Books & Music Shop

Oxfam GB

Job details

Job type

• Volunteer

Shift and schedule

• 4 - 8-hour shift – we are very flexible
• Location: 1 King Street, Corner House, Ulverston LA12 7DY

Full job description

Oxfam's Ulverston Shop is looking for Shop Volunteers to help Oxfam’s fight to support the world’s most vulnerable communities.

We’re looking for volunteers who can give 4-8 hours (or more!) of their time in the shop each week, and we’re excited to welcome brand new volunteers to our stores!

Right now, we're looking for people to help in the shop in our stock room and with our ecommerce/online department!

Location: 1 King Street, Corner House, Ulverston LA12 7DY

Become a volunteer!

We like to give volunteers an opportunity to try a range of areas before they find something that suits them. You might become a Retail Volunteer Books or Music, Till Volunteer, Stock Volunteer. Or you might find yourself in a more specialist role such as an Ecommerce Volunteer, a Shift Lead Volunteer, or even a Stock Specialist Volunteer.

Whatever your skills or interests, there’s something for everyone…

Why be a volunteer?

Your time will make a huge difference. We estimate one four-hour shift will, on average, provide enough income to enable Oxfam to provide life-saving handwashing facilities for 81 people.

Volunteering also has a positive impact on wellbeing, with an incredible 7 in 10 volunteers saying that their charitable actions were beneficial for their mental health.

Benefits of becoming a Volunteer:

· Gain genuine experience working in a retail environment.

· Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, and develop your CV.

· Great way to meet new people & be part of a community. Volunteering can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family.

· Be part of a fantastic team and make a positive change to the world.

· Opportunity to utilise and develop your transferable skills.

Volunteering with Oxfam will give you the skills, confidence and experience you need to build your CV and boost your employability. Problem solving, communication, working with others and familiarity with the workplace are universally valued by employers.

No experience is necessary as full training, and an induction will be given. You don't need to be computer literate to join our team; there are volunteer opportunities for all. All we ask is that you’re happy to work as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

We can be flexible around parenting, caring, health, employment, education, and any other commitments you have.

Tempted? Apply now!

Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

· We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

· *NB: due to the current capacity of some shops, it may be that you will be placed on a waiting list and/or, if you are under 18, until a shop has enough staff and/or volunteers DBS cleared. The Shop Manager will discuss this with you.

Job Type: Volunteer

Work Location: In person

Oxfam Till Volunteers Penrith, Cumbria

Do you enjoy meeting people and chatting?

Then this volunteer opportunity would suit you.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide

full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep active.

When:

· Monday to Saturday and Sundays – Am/Pm – 4 hours or just even 2 hours we are very flexible.

What you will be doing:

· Chatting to Customers - giving great customer service on the till.

· Operating the Till

· Keeping the shop floor clean and tidy

· Accepting donations from members of the public

· Assisting with stocking the shop floor

· Full Training and support are given for this role – no prior experience necessary.

What's in it for you:

· Lunch expenses paid for 5 hours or more volunteered in one shift up to £7.00

· Travel expenses are paid when travelling by bus, parking expenses are paid if driving and petrol expenses are paid at the discretion of the Shop Manager.

· Learn new skills, gain experience, build confidence, and meet new people and make new friends.

Disclaimer: Additional Information

· We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

· We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

· We do ask for one professional reference, however if this is not possible, we have a Reference Risk Assessment process form you can complete with the Shop Manager instead.

· Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

·  We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT) is recruiting six volunteers to sit on our new Advisory Council, which will support the work of the organisation by helping to guide our strategy and direction, develop new thinking around our grassroot activism, research, campaigning and advocacy work, and strengthen our solidarity networks, coalitions and allyships, especially with and amongst marginalised and racialised communities. 

The Advisory Council will complement our governing board (the Steering Committee). The aim is for the Council to take a broader, more long-term and strategic view of CAAT’s activities, provide fresh perspectives, and expand our networks. The Advisory Council will not have responsibility for financial, legal, or HR oversight of CAAT.

We are particularly warmly inviting those with lived experiences of international conflict and structural violence, and those involved in anti-militarist and intersecting social activism in collectives and movements. We also warmly encourage applications from people from marginalised communities and groups, including but not limited to LGBTQ+, BIPOC, neurodiverse, and disabled people.

More details are available in the attached Recruitment Pack or on the CAAT website. 

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Volunteer positions currently available:

Support Session Volunteer 

You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities.  Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis.  The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual.

As a support session volunteer, you might:

• help people have their say when it matters most
• Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
• help people to make complaints and use local services

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.

To find out more click “Apply Now”.

Shop Volunteering Opportunities

Faversham

Our shops are at the heart of local communities raising vital funds for our fight against homelessness and bad housing - and they’re powered by our volunteers!

Suggested Involvement: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied.

Availability: The shop is open Monday - Saturday 09:00-17:00 and Sunday 10:00-17:00. 

Location: Shop in Faversham, ME13 7AL

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager/Assistant Manager

Why volunteer with Shelter? 

Home is a human right. It's our foundation and it's where we thrive. Yet, every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun. 

What can I do?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal chat to find the right role for you. Some roles involve a basic criminal record check being completed during recruitment. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us, but it may impact the ways you can get involved.

• Volunteering in the shop

Our retail volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

- You will not undergo a criminal record check for this role  

• Volunteering in a leadership role

Our volunteer supervisors help with overseeing the running of our shop and creating a fantastic environment for our customers. You may be involved with coordinating and supporting other volunteers, operating computer systems, and being a key point of contact for the shop.

Skills and Experiences Required:

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked in a shop before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow Shelter’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for Shelter. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of bad housing or homelessness.

Induction, Learning and Development:

To enable you to take part in this opportunity Shelter will:

• Welcome you with a Volunteer Handbook
• Provide training, induction, and ongoing support from your Shop Manager to help you feel confident in your role
• Refund any out-of-pocket expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter…

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness
• Gain valuable experience in a retail environment
• Getting involved in your local community and being part of a great team
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills

We aim to respond to all applications within 14 days

If you would like to find out more about the volunteering opportunity before applying, why not pop into the shop, or contact the shop manager.

Volunteers support every aspect of our work, including but not exclusively: governance, administration, fundraising, marketing, and project delivery. We recognize that without our teams of volunteers we would not be able to support our service users in the way we do. In your role as Volunteer Co-ordinator you will be the 'champion' and first point of contact for volunteers within the organisation, ensuring all volunteers are encouraged and celebrated. You will be responsible for helping to maintain and improve volunteer recruitment and retention and for recruiting, inducting and supporting volunteers to deliver a range of appropriate services for clients, in line with Plateful Cafe's Business Plan. The key features of the role will be: 

1. Recruiting and selecting potential volunteers, acting as an ambassador for Plateful Café

2. Inducting volunteers into suitable roles based on their interests, experience and expectations and the charity's needs

3. Providing an initial point of contact with the charity and ensuring volunteers maintain a positive and confident approach

4. Supporting the volunteer team to ensure the provision of relevant experience, training and development opportunities as well as supervision and support

5. Maintaining an up-to-date database in order to monitor volunteer progress and to record and celebrate their contributions

6 Contributing to newsletter and reports in order to maintain and develop the profile of Plateful Café

7. Good understanding of safeguarding to keep both employees and volunteers safe and protected. 

8. Good management skills and the ability to organise on behalf of others.

9. Help new volunteers when they are stuck with certain tasks

10. You will need to effectively strategise a plan for other volunteers, make volunteer rotas and stay on top of volunteering admin and prioritise important tasks.

Requirements, we are looking for someone who;

· Is committed to the aims and objectives of the Plateful Café

· Has experience of working with volunteers, preferably in a charity 

· Has an understanding of the needs of refugees and how to involve them in the or-ganisation

Desirable, but not essential:

· Has experience of team working

· Is a good communicator, preferably a speaker of a community language 

· Has good interpersonal skills

Nearly 400,000 women experience pregnancy and maternity discrimination at work each year, with just 1% filling a complaint with the Employment Tribunal. For those that do, the process can be extremely stressful and intimidating, as they face a battle against organisations who often have the resources to afford the very best solicitors. We’ve heard from many women and parents who have shared the impact Tribunal claims have had on their mental health, with the process leaving them feeling burdened, alone and frightened.

We are looking for volunteers who have been through the Employment Tribunal process before, and would like to use that experience to support others during their claims. 

Our Tribunal Mentors give around 1-2 hours a week of their time to offer peer support to their mentees for 12 weeks.  They offer a listening ear through regular calls, and kind, empathetic support to help build the confidence to face an Employment Tribunal claim. Tribunal Mentors are not legal experts and can’t give advice on claims, however they are willing to share learning and insights from their own experience. To find out more about the Tribunal Mentor programme, click here. 

About the role

Role Title: Tribunal Mentor
Location: Home-based (UK)
Reporting To: Head of Support Services

Time Commitment

We ask that all new Tribunal Mentors can commit to at least six months of volunteering for approximately one hour a week.

Mentoring matches offer 12 weeks of support, this is usually through weekly one-hour calls. However there is some flexibility available depending on both the mentee and mentors needs.

Main Role Purpose

To offer Tribunal Mentees peer support and regular check-ins for 12 weeks. Mentors should be comfortable discussing their own experience of the Employment Tribunal process and offering emotional support to their mentee as they navigate the system and their claim.

Essential requirements

• Experience of filing an Employment Tribunal claim.
• Able to commit to at least six months of volunteering, for approximately one hour per week.
• Access to a mobile phone/laptop/tablet to receive calls. You will not be charged for calls and your number will not be shared.
• Access to a reliable and secure WIFI connection.
• Excellent active and empathetic listening skills.
• A kind and welcoming telephone manner.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.

Key Responsibilities

• Communicate with your mentees regularly for around 12 weeks. This is usually done through a weekly one-hour call.
• Listen actively, empathise, and provide guidance and support for mentees.
• Signpost to further information and other support organisations if necessary.
• Connect with and support other Mentors on the programme, usually through our Volunteer WhatsApp group.
• Record all mentoring calls on our CRM system.
• Maintain professionalism in all interactions, adhering to all Pregnant Then Screwed guidelines and policies.

What you can expect from PTS

• The opportunity to use your experience to tackle the Motherhood Penalty and make a meaningful impact.
• An onboarding and induction period which can be completed at your own pace.
• Support from the PTS staff team and volunteer network.
• Access to our Volunteer Training Hub.
• CPD accredited Supportive Listening training from Samaritans.
• Opportunities to help us further develop and shape our Support Services.

Sound like the right fit for you? Then go ahead and click the link below to apply! We’re looking forward to meeting you. Please note that you will not be able to save your application to complete later, however you can submit your application again if you think you have made a mistake.

Hackney Migrant Centre (HMC) is seeking to recruit a Chair to support our work and  ensure financial and organisational stability as we implement our newly developed Strategic Plan for 2025-2028. Our current Chair is stepping down at the end of her three-year term. We have recently appointed a new Vice-Chair, an experienced Treasurer in post for over a year, and our CEO has now been in post for over 18 months, providing continuity and stability in leadership. This is an opportunity for someone with previous Board experience to coordinate and lead the Board of Trustees and make an important contribution to the work of this well-respected local charity at a crucial time in its development.

HMC was established in 2007 to provide advice and support to migrants to help them overcome problems with their immigration status and in accessing services. We welcome all migrants, regardless of immigration status or nationality. With the help of a team of professional advisors and volunteers, we delivery immigration, housing and welfare advice and provide a range of holistic advocacy and support services in a community setting. We work to support visitors to address urgent problems they are facing, and address long term challenges relating to insecure immigration status, homelessness and destitution.

As the external environment for migrants has become increasingly challenging and funding pressures have intensified, we have had to review and adapt the scope of our work. Over the past two years, the staff team has reduced to a team of five, with most roles being part-time. We now have an annual budget of just over £300,000 and are in the process of reviewing what we can realistically achieve, as well as how we can become more resilient and financially sustainable.

We welcome applications from people from a range of backgrounds and experience who would be happy to take up this exciting challenge. We are particularly keen to recruit trustees with lived or learned experience of migration to the UK.

If you would like to be considered, please apply by Monday 2 February 2026, attaching a CV and a brief statement outlining why you are interested in the role and what you could bring to it (no more than two sides of A4). 

See the job description below for further details and for more information about our website.

Thank you for your interest, and we look forward to receiving your application!

Sunday Shift Lead Volunteer 

Where you will be based Oxfam Micklegate Shop York

Why we want you

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community by helping their local Oxfam shop to stay open

for as long possible. We need people to open and close the shop, and ensure

volunteers know what tasks to undertake so the shop can run smoothly.

No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to

learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people,

you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep

active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces

you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst

learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:

Opening or closing the shop.

Ensuring that the shop is ready to trade or cashing up at the end of trade

Allocating tasks to members of the volunteer team.

Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.

Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till.

Researching valuable and vintage stock.

Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays.

Photographing and listing items for the online shop.

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe

working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety

training to all volunteers.

The skills you need

We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering

Full training and support are given for this role - no prior experience is

required

Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others

Confident communicator

What's in it for you

Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to

understand what is covered)

Access to training and development

Grow your confidence and meet new people

Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle

Free confidential support by the Retail Trust

Possible references for future employers.

Disclaimer

Additional information:

We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an

inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please

speak to a manage

Shop Volunteering Opportunities

Kensington

Our shops are at the heart of local communities raising vital funds for our fight against homelessness and bad housing - and they’re powered by our volunteers!

Suggested Involvement: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied.

Availability: The shop is open Monday - Saturday 10:00-18:00 and Sunday 11:00-17:00

Location: 211 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6BD 

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager/Assistant Manager

Why volunteer with Shelter? 

Home is a human right. It's our foundation and it's where we thrive. Yet, every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun. 

What can I do?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal chat to find the right role for you. Some roles involve a basic criminal record check being completed during recruitment. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us, but it may impact the ways you can get involved.

• Volunteering in the shop

Our retail volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

- You will not undergo a criminal record check for this role  

• Volunteering in the community

Our Van Driver’s mates are out and about supporting drivers with delivering and collecting stock throughout the local area. They play a key part in getting donations to and from shops. This role does require the ability to lift heavy items. 

• Volunteering in a leadership role

Our volunteer supervisors help with overseeing the running of our shop and creating a fantastic environment for our customers. You may be involved with coordinating and supporting other volunteers, operating computer systems, and being a key point of contact for the shop.

Skills and Experiences Required:

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked in a shop before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow Shelter’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for Shelter. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of bad housing or homelessness.

Induction, Learning and Development:

To enable you to take part in this opportunity Shelter will:

• Welcome you with a Volunteer Handbook
• Provide training, induction, and ongoing support from your Shop Manager to help you feel confident in your role
• Refund any out-of-pocket expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter…

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness
• Gain valuable experience in a retail environment
• Getting involved in your local community and being part of a great team
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills

We aim to respond to all applications within 14 days

If you would like to find out more about the volunteering opportunity before applying, why not pop into the shop, or contact the volunteering team

West London Welcome (WLW) is a community centre and registered charity run for and with refugees, migrants and people seeking asylum, working together with local people to provide a safe, positive experience of community to reduce isolation, build inclusion and confidence, and challenge injustice.

Each week at WLW brings unique joys and challenges. We support hundreds of people from 70 different countries with a range of immigration statuses, providing English classes, advice, casework, hot food, a foodbank, clothing, childcare for those in classes, and social and creative activities. We take a holistic approach to support the needs of our members, from the practical and social to the emotional and playful.

We’re looking for someone with lived experience of seeking refuge or migration to join our Board of Trustees.

—

Our ongoing work with people with lived experience of seeking refuge and migration

At WLW we are striving to ensure our staff, volunteers and Board of Trustees are reflective of the communities we work with.

Our staff team includes five people with lived experience of refuge or migration, all of whom work in a wide variety of ways on a weekly basis with the refugees, migrants and asylum-seeking people who come to our centre. Our Board of Trustees includes one person who we supported through the asylum system, and five of our nine Trustees have lived experience of refuge or migration.

Amongst our 100+ volunteers, many are our beneficiaries whom we also support, who work collaboratively with us to run our centre. A fifth of our volunteers have lived experience of refuge or migration. From cooking and organising our foodbank to running our creative activities and translating for our advice team, this collaborative work ensures our community members have a stake in the way we practically run our organisation day-to-day and have a sense of ownership over the space.

We are now looking to recruit a new Trustee with lived experience of seeking refuge or migration.

The Role
 

We are looking to recruit a trustee with some or all of the following skills and/or experience:

• Lived experience of the challenges of seeking refuge or migrating to the UK from another country. We welcome applicants who have either moved to the UK recently, or decades ago.

• Refugee/migrant sector experience – experience of volunteering or working within the refugee and migrant NGO sector in the UK or another country. This could include either volunteering or working directly for an NGO, or in another related capacity such as with a campaign.

• Somebody who is passionate about the work of West London Welcome and supporting people in our community. 

It is not necessary for applicants to have previous experience of being a Trustee.

Trustee roles are unpaid voluntary positions, but we offer travel and other relevant expenses.

Trustee Duties
 

The general duties of a trustee are to:

• Ensure that WLW complies with its governing document (its constitution), charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

• Ensure that WLW pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.

• Ensure WLW applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they appear to be.

• Contribute actively to the Board’s role in giving firm strategic direction to WLW, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

• Safeguard the good name and values of WLW.

• Ensure the financial stability of WLW.

• Protect and manage the property of WLW and to ensure that proper investment of WLW’s funds.

• Support WLW’s Directors and monitor their performance.

• In addition to the above general duties, a trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Minimum Time Commitment

• The Board generally holds meetings at least four times per year. These normally take place in the early evening and last approximately two hours. There may also be additional occasional trainings.

• Trustees should also support WLW at informal fundraising and other events as part of their ambassadorial role as well as making make regular visits to the WLW centre.

• This is a voluntary position, but trustees can claim out of pocket expenses such as those incurred in travelling to meetings.

• Occasionally quick decisions on urgent matters need to be made. Trustees should be available via WhatsApp as well as at regular board meetings to provide needed input/advice.

Person Specification
 

Each trustee must have:

• A commitment to the mission of WLW;

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort;

• Integrity;

• Strategic vision;

• Good, independent judgement;

• An ability to think creatively;

• A willingness to speak their mind;

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship;

• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of WLW;

• A satisfactory DBS disclosure;

• Satisfactory references.

Interested applicants should review the duties and person specification detailed here, and apply via CharityJob by 11.30pm on Monday 9 February 2026.

The Role

Our Lotus Community works alongside the City of Edinburgh Council to provide accommodation for 14 young people (aged 16-18), who are unaccompanied asylum-seekers. They come from a variety of different countries.

The community is a step towards independent living, whilst they await a decision about their ‘leave to remain’ in the country. The asylum procedure can be a long, complicated, overwhelming and challenging process. We support the young people in the best way during this stressful time (and after). They are supported by social workers and a guardianship service as well.

What will you do as a volunteer?

We are looking for highly motivated individuals who work well independently, are proactive and can get involved in community activities. You will support the residents of the community and help look after your shared spaces in the flats. Most of the residents have basic living skills, including cooking, cleaning and budgeting. We offer further support where needed.

We can also help them gain confidence and knowledge of the local area. This is to enable them to take further steps towards independence and integration in the local community. This is also with the purpose of them moving on to accommodation that better suits their needs in the future.

Depending on the season, and interests and abilities of the residents, your tasks can include:

• Being a peer mentor and staying in touch with the residents via WhatsApp
• Organise our monthly community meeting
• Organise activities, which can be walks, cycling, board games night, karaoke, tea and cake (whatever your interests) for the residents to come along.
• Reporting issues with the flat, repairs etc.
• Making sure that all rooms always have the equipment needed (cleaning products, toilet roll, hand sanitiser, condoms etc).
• Updating your (online) calendar for the week, so everyone knows when you are volunteering and not.
• Working together with your fellow volunteer(s) to organise activities and arrange rota.

What you get:

Location: You will live in a studio bedroom in the flat alongside the young residents. You will not pay for rent or bills (including internet).

Time: 20 hours per week for minimum 6 months. These are during the evening and weekends, with exception for a few hours spent in meetings and alike.

You can volunteer and work part time at the same time. You will organise your volunteering hours with the other volunteer.

We will provide support and training needed for you to engage with the tasks and young people in a safe manner. Support, supervision and team meetings are every month.

About the Role

We are looking a capable and reliable Officer within IT & Systems to support the IT & Systems function and provide operational cover for the Head of IT & Systems when required. This role exists to ensure continuity of systems, user support, and core IT processes in the event of absence, increased workload, or unexpected issues.

Reporting directly to the Head of IT & Systems, you will help manage day-to-day systems, respond to support requests, and handle joiner and leaver processes. The role is hands-on, practical, and focused on keeping things running rather than long-term architecture or strategy. Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role, with no financial compensation or future paid opportunities attached. We encourage you to apply if you have relevant/transferable skills for this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the day-to-day operation of internal systems, including user access, permissions, and basic configurations.
• Monitor and respond to IT and systems support requests, escalating issues where appropriate.
• Supporting new starter and leaver processes, including account setup, access changes, and offboarding.
• Assist with the administration of Bitrix, ClickUp, Teamplate, or similar platforms.
• Maintain clear documentation for processes and common issues.
• Provide operational cover for the Head of IT & Systems during periods of absence or unavailability.
• Handle ad hoc systems tasks and problem-solving as they arise.

What We are Looking For

We are looking for someone dynamic with the skills and experience to make a positive impact. This role suits someone practical, calm under pressure, and comfortable working without close supervision. You will be a strong fit if you have:

• Proven experience in IT support, systems administration, or helpdesk-style environments.
• Hands-on experience managing user accounts, access control, and routine systems tasks.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, helpdesk tools, or internal business platforms.
• Experience working with tools such as Bitrix, ClickUp, Teamplate, or comparable systems.
• The ability to work independently and manage tasks at your own pace while meeting agreed expectations.
• A strong sense of ownership and reliability.
• Previous experience in volunteer-led or non-profit organisations is a bonus.
• Comfort working fully remotely and supporting users virtually.
• Strong work ethic and collaborative attitude.
• A passion for the charity work, a genuine belief in the mission of Youth Advantage UK and a commitment to making a difference.
• Previous experience in volunteer-led organisations is a bonus.
• Remote working experience or comfort with managing teams virtually.

What You will Gain

· Practical experience acting as a key operational contact within an IT and systems function.

· Exposure to real-world continuity planning and operational risk management.

· The opportunity to build confidence in owning systems processes end-to-end.

Important Information

This role is completely voluntary. There is no financial payment, benefits, or employment status. It is ideal for experienced HR professionals looking to give back, stay active in leadership, or contribute to a values-led organisation in a meaningful way.

Apply Now

If you're passionate about fundraising and want to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. Help us unlock new opportunities for Youth Advantage UK and join our dedicated team of changemakers today.

Join our Board and help us support Asian mothers who are fleeing domestic abuse.

About Maa Shanti

We offer practical support, advocacy, emotional support, and activities tailored to the needs of South Asian mothers. Services are available in person, online, or in a blended format, and the team speaks Bengali, Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi to ensure culturally sensitive engagement.

What will you be doing?

Key Responsibilities: 

· Ensure the charity fulfills its purposes as outlined in its governing document.

· Ensure compliance with the governing document, charity law, and other applicable laws.

· Act in the charity’s best interests, making balanced and informed decisions. Contribute to the Board’s strategic direction, policy-setting, and goal definition, including performance evaluation.

· Provide guidance based on experience, supporting new initiatives.

· Ensure effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Monitor Maa Shanti’s financial, strategic, and operational performance. 

In addition to general trustee responsibilities, we're particularly interested with in candidates who have the following skills:

· HR

· Charity Governance

· Legal expertise (family law/immigration)

Time Commitment:

· Quarterly Board meetings.

· 2 away days a year.

· In addition to Board meetings, there may be some ad hoc work support required in between meetings.

· Remote/hybrid working offered if needed.

What are we looking for?

You do not need previous governance experience to join the board. We will provide an induction an ongoing support.

Personal skills and qualities:

· Willingness and ability to understand and accept responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

· Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

· Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

· Enthusiasm for the work of Maa Shanti.

· Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. 

We warmly welcome applications from individuals who bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to our Board. As a woman only and led-by-and-for organisation, all board members must be women, and at least 90% of the board must come from South Asian backgrounds.

What difference will you make?

Joining Maa Shanti’s Board is an opportunity to be part of a values-led, survivor-centred organisation making a real difference in the lives of women and children affected by domestic abuse. As a trustee, you will help shape the future of a trusted, community-rooted charity at a time of growth and increasing need. You’ll work alongside a thoughtful, supportive Board and leadership team, contributing your perspective, skills and lived experience to ensure survivors’ voices remain at the heart of everything we do.