Learning support volunteers volunteer roles in shooters hill, greater london
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We’re looking for a new fundraising volunteer and/or director! Are you passionate about securing funds for grassroot organisations?
This opportunity involves overseeing Fuel Poverty Action’s fundraising plans and strategy, reaching out to donors and promoting our vital campaigns through grant bids to help end fuel poverty in the UK.
This role would require an average of 16-20 hrs per month and can be done remotely. We are also open to you joining FPA’s board of directors, subject to capacity and experience.
This offers a chance to directly contribute to tackling fuel poverty and ensuring access to affordable energy for all whilst strategizing and learning alongside great activists. If you're eager to contribute, we’d love to hear from you!
Tasks:
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Organise and manage our fundraising planning and pipeline
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Reach out to potential donors and help build relationships
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Lead on grant applications
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Work closely with the team to develop new fundraising strategies
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Contribute ideas and experience to FPA campaigns
Closing date for applications: April 20th 2025
We want warm, safe homes on a flourishing planet, where everyone has enough and resources are justly shared

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.
We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Haringey group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.
In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills.
Time Commitment
We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.
You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Haringey area to carry out this role.
The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have professional experience in coding and computing? Could you support young people in learning how to code?
Are you passionate about equipping the next generation with the skills and strategies needed to succeed?
About us: GT Scholars is a social enterprise that tackles educational inequality by giving ambitious young people the support, skills and strategies they need to achieve their aspirations.
We believe that all young people are gifted and talented, regardless of their background. We run a wide range of programmes that help young people achieve their academic and career aspirations, particularly those from less-privileged backgrounds.
What makes us different? There are many organisations that offer programmes to improve the life chances of young people. However, our programmes use a unique 3:1 model which means that we’re able to sustainably use our profits to provide additional places on our programmes, to young people from low-income homes.
Our mission is to empower and develop the next generation of leaders and change-makers and we’re looking for workshop facilitators that are passionate about making a difference in young people’s lives!
Responsibilities: Facilitators are responsible for designing creative and interactive workshops for our young people, and delivering these workshops with our young people. We run some of our workshops online and other workshops are held in London. All workshops are held during the school holidays, in the evening and on weekends.
The workshop facilitator role is flexible and as part of your role, you may be involved in:
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Delivering and leading short workshops or courses, on behalf of GT Scholars (Online or offline)
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Designing engaging, interactive and educational workshops and short courses for young people and ensuring that the content is targeted to suit different abilities and capabilities
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Running your own bespoke workshops, eg. workshops in coding and technology
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Managing short activities and Q&A sessions during our workshops
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Working collaboratively with other event coordinators, volunteers, ambassadors, workshop facilitators and speakers at our events
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Following the agreed timings and content for workshops and courses
Person specification:
As workshop facilitator, you will need to:
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Have passion, knowledge and experience in coding, computing and technology
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Have strong presentation skills
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Have strong communication skills
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Be personable and able to confidently communicate with people from a range of backgrounds and professions.
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Be passionate and committed to tackling educational inequality
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Be punctual and organised
Availability: Workshops will run during the day on school holiday dates, on Saturdays or in the evening (5pm-8pm).
Additional information: We will need to conduct reference checks and you will need an Enhanced DBS for this role as you will be working directly with children. We can process this for you or you may submit one if this is less than 2 years old.
Rate of pay: This is a self-employed role. You must be aged 18 or above. Facilitator sessions range from 2 to 6 hours. The rate of pay will vary based on the budget of the funder.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The difference you will make to cats and people
As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.
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
- cover 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
You'll be:
- planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances
- providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
- encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection
- following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events
A bit more information about this role and the team
- To seek out new fundraising opportunities, within the local area, to improve our revenue stream
Time expectation
Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.
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.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Detailed description
Baby Group
An opportunity to meet other families with young babies in a supportive, stimulating and friendly environment. During the session you can play, discover more about their development and support your wellbeing. ** The activities and content of the sessions are planned for children 0 - pre-walkers **
Baby Group
Silver Birches Family Centre, HERTFORD, Fridays, 9.30am - 12.00 pm
Selections Family Centre, HERTFORD Mondays, 9.30am - 12.00 pm
Creswick FC - WGC, Fridays, 9.30am - 12.00
De Havilland FC - Hatfield, Thursdays, 9.30am - 12
High Trees FC – Turnford, Mondays, 1.00pm - 3.30 pm
The Ark FC – Hoddesdon, Tuesdays, 12.30am - 3.00pm
Buttercups Family Centre, Bishop's Stortford, Mondays, 12.30pm - 2.30 pm
Main Tasks could include:
To support the vision of the Family Centre supporting the Early Start Team in their work with parents, carer's, families and Children (under 11years)
- To ensure all families feel welcome comfortable and valued.
- To support the engagement of parents in their babies development and learning.
- Setting up/tidying away activities.
- Engage & play with the children.
- Lead on specific activities as required.
- Includes both indoor and outdoor activities
- Encourage and support families to register with the service
Skills, Experience and Qualities needed:
- Aged 18 or over.
- Willing to undergo an enhanced DBS check.
- Commitment to online and face-to-face training.
- You need to have a friendly approach.
- Excellent communication skills
- Maintain confidentiality at all times
- The ability to work well in a team and unsupervised.
Support Offered:
Training provided prior to starting role.
Full induction into the service
Ongoing support and supervision throughout role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.
We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the West Central London Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.
In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.
Time Commitment
We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.
You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.
Apply
1. Read through the role description carefully
2. Please apply online
The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This flexible home volunteering role is worthwhile and rewarding. Make a real difference writing letters. As a Volunteer Penpal Writer you’ll be a key member of the Letterbox Team. Your letters will cheer someone up and establish a trusting, supportive relationship with a client who might be lonely or socially isolated.
What tasks can this role include (some or all of the following):
- Writing letters to clients
- Building trust and companionship with a client through correspondence. Omega befriends a variety of people including: caregivers, the lonely, isolated or people with ill-health.
- Liaising with the Letterbox Team by email or post.
- Respecting service standards, appropriate boundaries and recognising the policies and procedures that are necessary when befriending adults at risk.
- Making suggestions to help us improve the service we provide to clients and Volunteer Pen pal Writers.
This role could be for you, if you:
- Enjoy writing and receiving letters
- Are enthusiastic and self-motivated
- Associate strongly with Omega’s values and strategy
- Have knowledge or understanding about a variety of client issues including caring, feeling isolated and lonely and its impact on people and society
- Have satisfactory written and inter-personal communication skills
- Recognise the importance of confidentiality and can show this in practice
- Are committed to inclusion, treating people with dignity and respect
What support and training will be provided?
- Feedback from clients and colleagues
- Regular and ongoing support from Letterbox Team Leader
- Answering questions
- Stationary and pre-paid envelopes can be provided making the service free.
- Opportunity for peer support events and invitation to Omega events
- Reward system and opportunity for volunteer of the month rewards
What are the benefits for you?
- Knowing you are making a difference to someone’s life by doing something you enjoy
- Joining the Omega Team, who are taking action against loneliness and isolation as well as helping people in crisis
- An opportunity to enhance your CV or learn new skills
- An opportunity to engage with your community
Location of the role:
- Mainly your home
When are you needed?
- At a time to suit you
Omega is a registered charity dedicated to reducing social isolation and loneliness.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.
We are looking to recruit a Communications Volunteer for the London Borough of Sutton Group. As our Communications Volunteer you’ll make sure people know they have a local MS Society group to turn to.
In this role you’ll be able to develop your writing skills, and gain an experience of communicating across a range of digital channels.
Time commitment
We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.
You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.
Apply
1. Read through the role description carefully
2. Please apply online
The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join 198 CAL as a Trustee – Help Shape Our Future
198 Contemporary Arts and Learning (198 CAL) is seeking passionate and experienced Trustees with fundraising and finance expertise to help us navigate today’s challenging funding landscape and build a stable, sustainable future.
This is an exciting time to join our team, following the acquisition and expansion of our new building. We are looking for committed individuals who share our vision and can contribute their skills to strengthen our organisation and make a real difference in people’s lives.
What’s Involved?
- Attend quarterly online Board meetings and one in-person strategy workshop per year.
- Participate in sub-committees and contribute remotely.
- This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses covered.
If you have the skills and dedication to support 198 CAL’s mission, we’d love to hear from you!
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Senior Researcher in an Initial Research Team is the operational lead for one
particular project at a time, they will work with the Research Manager and within
the Initial Research Framework in order to plan and execute the research. At the
conclusion of research projects the Senior Researcher is responsible for providing
an accurate research report which allows for consideration as to what happens
next with the research inline with our organisation's purpose.The role of Senior
Researcher is key in our organisation's progress and overall positive output as it is
the starting point for all of our work. It is therefore important Senior Researchers
are committed and capable.
Responsibilities may include:
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To oversee and take part in the planning and execution of initial research projects
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To supervise a team of approximately 4 research volunteers, delegating and creating tasks according to the research plan
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To work with and support the Research Manager, ensuring task coordination across platforms such as ClickUp and a high level of communication across the team
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To ensure outputs such as literature reviews and surveys are completed to the highest standard possible, in line with ethical considerations if relevant
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To comply with and advise on using the OSCOLA referencing system
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To organise analysis of Freedom of Information request data sets
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To collaborate with the rest of the team and the RM to provide an internal research report at the end of the research project, including a summary and key recommendations for next steps
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To conduct 1-1s and lead team meetings where necessary
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To regularly communicate with team members about their task progress, welfare and support needs
Required experience and qualifications:
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To have experience in supervising or managing a group of people
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Clear communication skills and a demonstrable level of academic writing to a high standard
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In depth knowledge of qualitative research methods and secondary data analysis, quantitative experience a plus
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To have knowledge on children’s human rights in the UK and other related areas
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To have an undergraduate degree, master’s degree a plus, in a related subject
A Little About Us!
Youth Advantage UK is a research-led, un incorporated un registered charitable organization. We use a research-led approach to protect the rights and interests of young people through positive action such as projects, policy work, research, services, events. We promote and empower change.
Why we need you!
Youth Advantage UK are in our early stages but are growing and looking for volunteers to help achieve our aims to become a registered charitable organization. Your skills and expertise are what we need to continue to grow. Without our volunteers we cannot grow and appreciate those who apply with us!
What we offer!
Anybody who wishes to help and contribute to a good cause are welcome to apply for one of our volunteering positions. We will speak to you about what your aims are to ensure that the volunteering position you are applying for is suitable. By volunteering you have the chance to learn something new and contribute to a successful organization who is looking to help young people in the UK.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role Overview
As the Volunteer Executive Assistant, you will play a crucial role in supporting the CEO by managing key administrative and strategic tasks that help drive the organisation’s success. This position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with senior leadership, gaining insight into high-level decision-making and organisational strategy.
You will act as a trusted partner to the CEO, assisting with scheduling, communication, and project coordination to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
This role is perfect for someone who:
Enjoys taking initiative and finding creative solutions to challenges.
Has a keen eye for detail and can anticipate the needs of leadership before they arise.
Is looking for a hands-on learning experience in executive leadership, nonprofit management, or organisational strategy.
Wants to make a meaningful impact by supporting a mission-driven organization.
Responsibilities:
Act as a key point of contact and liaison between the CEO and internal/external stakeholders.
Coordinate, prepare, and follow up on meetings, ensuring the CEO is always equipped with relevant information and materials
Draft and edit correspondence, reports, and presentations to maintain a professional and impactful standard.
Undertake research and data analysis to support decision-making and strategic initiatives.
Assist with project management tasks, ensuring deadlines and objectives are met.
Support the planning and coordination of events, campaigns, and advocacy initiatives.
Keep track of key actions, priorities, and goals, ensuring the CEO's time is optimised for maximum impact.
Adapt to the evolving needs of the CEO and the organization, stepping into new challenges with enthusiasm.
What We’re Looking For
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Proficiency in Microsoft Office / Google Suite
Ability to work independently and handle confidential information
Previous experience in executive support or administration (preferred but not required)
Passion for our mission and a commitment to supporting nonprofit work
What You’ll Gain
By joining us as a Volunteer Executive Assistant, you’ll gain more than just experience—you’ll become part of a meaningful mission while developing key professional skills. Here’s what you can expect:
- Valuable Executive-Level Experience – Gain first hand insight into the operations of a CEO and how strategic decisions are made within an organisation.
- Professional Development – Enhance your skills in executive administration, leadership, time management, and communication—great for career advancement.
- Mentorship & Networking – Work closely with an experienced CEO and connect with professionals across different sectors, expanding your career opportunities.
- Resume Booster – Having experience as an Executive Assistant to a CEO is a strong asset for future job opportunities, particularly in business, nonprofit leadership, and administration.
- Flexibility – Enjoy a volunteer role that fits around your schedule. We understand that life is busy, so we offer flexibility in working hours.
- Personal Fulfillment – Contribute to a cause you’re passionate about, knowing that your work is directly helping to drive real change.
This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with a CEO, gain invaluable executive experience, and contribute to a mission-driven organisation. If you’re highly organised, proactive, and eager to make a real impact, we’d love to hear from you!
Join us in driving positive change—apply today by sending your CV and a brief cover letter
We look forward to welcoming you to the team!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Give Back to Children in Your Community with The Kids Network
Are you looking to donate your skills, give back to your community, or find a meaningful way to use your time? The Kids Network offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of children while practicing your skills and connecting with others.
If you already have experience in mentoring, education, psychology, or related fields, The Kids Network provides an ideal platform to use and donate your skills. By becoming a mentor, you can actively practice your learned skills and see the direct impact of your efforts on the children in your local community and provide support to those who need it most.
Why Choose The Kids Network?
- Active Skill Application: Our programme allows you to apply your expertise in real-world settings, enhancing your practical experience.
- Structured Support: We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring you can make the most of your skills.
- Proven Impact: With 100% of children reporting increased wellbeing, you’ll see tangible impact from your mentoring.
Impact on Mentees
- Building Confidence: Help children in your community develop self-assurance and resilience.
- Creating Opportunities: Provide guidance that helps young people navigate their challenges and seize opportunities.
- Strengthening Community: Contribute to the overall wellbeing of your community, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
Connection
- Personal Fulfilment: Experience the joy and satisfaction of making a positive impact on a child’s life.
- Meaningful Relationships: Form a strong bond with your mentee, providing guidance and support through fun and engaging activities.
- Community Engagement: Participate in mentor meet-ups and group activities, connecting with other mentors and mentees.
Your Role as a Mentor
As a mentor, you will hold weekly one-on-one sessions of 1-3 hours for the duration of 12 months. You will help build confidence, resilience, and help your mentee manage feelings through a series of fun experiences and activities. Whether you’re playing games or discussing goals, you’ll be making a difference in a child’s life by developing the tools for a positive future.
Join Us Today
Whether you're wanting to use your expertise, eager to give back and make an impact, or looking for purpose and connection, The Kids Network offers a meaningful way to contribute. Volunteer with us and become part of a community dedicated to fostering positive futures for children and mentors alike.
For more information and to apply, visit The Kids Network website
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our ambition is to continue to develop outstanding services that meet the needs of our community; if you want to be part of our future, we would love to meet you to discuss this further.
Becoming a trustee for Home-Start Southwark (HSS) is an exciting and fulfilling role. The role of a trustee is to ensure that HSS fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries through contributing to the strategic development, effective governance and financial management of the organisation. The board of trustees are both jointly and individually responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of HSS, its financial health, the integrity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals.
We are particularly interested in receiving applications from people with the following skillsets:
- HR
- Legal
- Finance, accountancy, bookkeeping
- Fundraising
- Media and communications
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.
We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Haringey group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.
In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills.
Time Commitment
We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.
You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Haringey area to carry out this role.
The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.
Letter from Imelda Redmond, our chair of trustees
The current Board is a welcoming, collegiate and energetic group, working hard to make a positive impact on the lives of older people in Tower Hamlets, Newham and Hackney. I joined the organisation a year ago as chair and am enjoying steering the organisation through an exciting period of transformation as we implement our new, and ambitious, five year strategy. AUKEL has sound finances and a strong reputation for its service delivery (Hospital to Home service, community services, digital inclusion and Information and Advice). From this strong base, the organisation has an ambition to amplify the voices of older people within our communities and to create a more collaborative culture which both improves the connectedness of our services and also strengthens our relationships with local voluntary, statutory, community and faith groups. We are looking for someone with the time, passion and expertise we need to work collegiately with trustee colleagues to lead the organisation through this next exciting phase.
Yours,
Imelda Redmond
AUKEL Chair of trustees
About us Age
UK East London (AUKEL) is a local independent charity, which is part of the national Age UK network. We work across Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Newham to deliver services which support older people to live healthier, happier and more fulfilled lives.
Our work
Each year we support around 20,000 older East Londoners by providing flexible practical and emotional support in homes, hospitals and in the community.
Our boroughs have the country’s highest pensioner poverty in the country, further exacerbated by the current cost of living crisis.
How we help
1. We tackle poverty
Each year our advice service supports over 2,000 older people to claim £3.2million in welfare benefits, grants and relief entitlements. During the cost-of-living crisis we distributed £42,000 worth of emergency vouchers for food, helping older people ensure there was food in the fridge.
2. We alleviate loneliness
According to a national model, Tower Hamlets has the highest rates of loneliness in London and in England. Our East End Friends initiative teams housebound older people who’d like a bit more company with a volunteer to visit them at home. 92% of older people said they felt less isolated and lonely and 100% of volunteers would recommend the scheme.
3. We improve health.
Many older people in our boroughs have very poor health. For example, at age 65, women can expect just six more years of good health, which is the lowest in London and almost the lowest in England. This reduces their quality of life and can make it harder to remain independent. As well as increasing income and addressing loneliness (both determinants of health) we offer yoga, walking, and chair-based exercise groups at our community centre in Bow. 87% of participants said they are more independent as a result.
4. We increase independence.
Many older people live alone and struggle to manage around the home. Our home from hospital service supports 3,000 older people to return to a safe and warm home. Just 6% are readmitted to hospital within 28 days compared to 15.3% in areas where there aren’t these services.
The Team
We have an established and talented Senior Management Team, a committed staff team and an extraordinary group of volunteers. Two years ago, the board recruited a new Chief Executive. She is ambitious for the charity, comes with a great track-record of charity leadership, and has worked hard with trustees to develop our new organisational strategy.
Who we are looking for
We want our trustees to understand the community we serve and are therefore specifically looking for applicants who live in and/or have strong connections with Hackney, Tower Hamlets or Newham. Additionally, we are determined to increase the diversity of the current Board in line with our organisational EDI Objectives. For this reason, we are actively seeking candidates from the Global Majority (all non-white ethnic groups, including Black, Asian, and other groups previously labelled as "ethnic minorities" or ‘BAME’).
Previous experience in the voluntary sector, adult social care, NHS, or similar relevant experience to the work of AUKEL would be helpful. As would communications/marketing experience. However, this is potentially a developmental role where you will gain knowledge and experience of charity governance – so the most important thing is your commitment to our organisational aims and your local connection.
You must want to improve the lives of older people across East London and understand the impact disadvantage and discrimination has on the life chances of our local population. You will be curious, collaborative and ambitious and able to commit to an average of one-to two days a quarter (most meetings are in the evenings).
If you're new to being a trustee, we can offer additional training and pair you with a fellow trustee as a ‘buddy’ to help guide you. They’ll be there to walk you through trustee materials, answer any questions, and provide support along the way.
Full role description can be found in appendix 1
What I get out of being on the AUKEL Board
'I continue to be impressed with the extent of the help AUKEL provides in our communities. The need for the service is increasing as the cost-of-living crisis deepens. I see the Trustee role as an enabling role. I enjoy rolling up my sleeves alongside my fellow trustees to tackle some challenging issues with our combined skill sets. I particularly enjoy working on the new People sub-committee and I can sense a renewed enthusiasm for finding ways to optimise the Trustee contribution.' (Teresa, a current trustee)
New Trustees will complete an induction to the organisation and the Board. This will include site visits and meetings with the CEO, Senior Management Team, Chair and Board members. During your induction you’ll have the opportunity to really understand our services and get to know our team. You’ll be able to ask any questions you want and visit any service you wish!
Time commitment
The full Board meets quarterly on Wednesdays from 6.00 – 8.00pm in our Hackney centre.
We hope that all our trustees additionally sit on a sub-committee which reflects their interests and/or expertise. All the Committees meet quarterly the Finance Committee meets on Thursdays from 6.00 – 8.00pm usually face to face in Bethnal Green, the People Committee 5 meets quarterly on Mondays from 6.00-7.30pm online, and the Service Development Committee usually meets from 6.00-7.30pm on Thursdays online.
Travel expenses can be reimbursed.
Board members may be asked to commit additional time to support staff recruitment, review tenders and share expertise.
The agenda and papers for each meeting are usually emailed to Trustees a week in advance.
How to apply
If you are interested in being considered for this role please submit your CV/LinkedIn profile with a covering letter explaining why you wish to join the charity and the skills/experience you will bring to the Board.Please visit our website for the recruitment email address.
Potential candidates are welcome to have an informal conversation about the role. Please visit our website for the recruitment email address.
Closing date is the 30th of June.
Appendix 1
Trustee role description
The Board is responsible for the smooth-running of the organisation and supporting the Chief Executive. You will be supporting our 70+ members of staff and part of our 80+ strong volunteer team. You will also have the opportunity to learn about how to tackle the challenges that our beneficiaries face, and how to deliver appropriate co-produced services that enrich older people’s lives and enhance the whole community of East London.
Main tasks
- Contribute to Board meetings, helping to give firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting policy and targets and evaluating performance.
- Make decisions for the benefit of Age UK East London, exercising independent judgement and declaring any interests, exercising reasonable skill, care and diligence in carrying out activities.
- Be familiar with the rules that govern Age UK East London (Articles of Association) and make sure we follow those, Charity Law, Company Law and all other relevant legislation and regulations.
- Ensure the organisation’s financial stability, overseeing the setting of the budget and monitoring variance against the budget (the Board also has a Finance Sub-Committee to help oversee this).
- Ensure that we use our resources in line with our Articles and the requirements of funders, and that our accounts are a ‘fair and true’ representation of our finances.
- Safeguard the values of Age UK East London a maintain positive reputation for the organisation and its work.
Person specification
We’re looking for someone who:
- Cares about older people and wants to make a positive difference in their lives.
- Is open-minded, fair, and respectful, and values the opinions and experiences of others.
- Understands equity, diversity, and inclusion and its impact on older people and organizational practices
- Is committed to the charity’s mission, values, and social impact.
- Is reliable, committed and can dedicate some time to attending meetings and getting involved in the charity’s work.
- Is willing to learn about the charity’s work, the role of a trustee, and the challenges older people face.
- Can work well with others as part of a team, sharing ideas and supporting the charity’s goals.
It would be helpful (but not essential) if you:
- Have personal or professional experience with older people, or an understanding of the issues they face.
- Have lived experience or a connection to the charity’s mission.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.