Learning volunteers volunteer roles in bridgwater, somerset

Calling All Wordsmiths – Volunteer as a Grant Writer for RideWise!

Do you have a knack for writing and a passion for making a difference? RideWise, a charity championing sustainable and accessible transport, is looking for volunteer grant writers to help secure vital funding for our projects. Our work helps connect our communities to the people and places that are important to them - and helps safeguard our environment.

Your skills could help us unlock new opportunities, support local communities, and drive real change. Whether you're experienced or just eager to learn, we’d love to have you on board.

Use your words to power our mission. Join RideWise as a volunteer grant writer today!

About Us

Children with Voices is a dedicated charity based in Hackney, London. Our mission is to support and empower children and young people through a range of community-focused programmes and initiatives. We strive to create a nurturing environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive HR Assistant to support our HR operations. This role is essential in ensuring smooth day-to-day HR functions, assisting with recruitment, compliance, and general HR administration. The ideal candidate will have strong organisational skills, an interest in human resources, and a passion for working in the charity sector.

Key Responsibilities

Recruitment and Onboarding

• Assist with job postings, candidate screening, and interview coordination.

• Support the onboarding process for new volunteers and employees, ensuring all necessary documentation and induction materials are provided.

HR Administration & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee and volunteer records.

• Ensure compliance with relevant employment and volunteering regulations.

• Assist with general HR administrative tasks, including using Monday. com for record-keeping and task management.

Policy and Employee Support

• Support the implementation of HR policies and procedures.

• Act as a point of contact for HR-related queries from staff and volunteers.

Qualifications and Experience

• Some experience or knowledge of HR functions is desirable.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to handle confidential information professionally.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HR systems 

• CIPD qualification or working towards one is advantageous but not essential.

Personal Attributes

• Passion for working in the charity sector and supporting children and young people.

• Highly organised, proactive, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.

• A willingness to learn and develop HR skills.

How to Apply

If you are enthusiastic about making a positive impact and gaining experience in HR, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

The Breastfeeding Network's services are essential for both families and reducing pressure on health services. We are seeking a new Treasurer to ensure we can meet increased demand.

About The Breastfeeding Network

The Breastfeeding Network (BfN) is the leading charity providing infant feeding and breastfeeding information and support that women and families trust at one of the most vulnerable points on their parenting journeys.

We work across the UK and aid women and families to feel supported in their feeding choices and are able to breastfeed for as long as they choose. 

What will you be doing?

BfN is the leading charity providing infant feeding and breastfeeding information and support that women and families trust at one of the most vulnerable points on their parenting journeys. We work across the UK and support women and families to feel supported in their feeding choices and are able to breastfeed for as long as they choose. BfN is a Scottish registered charity and a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registered at Companies House. 

The Treasurer will work closely with the Finance and Systems Manager and CEO to provide effective leadership on the financial good governance and resilience of BfN. 

 Main duties and tasks

The Treasurer has specific key responsibilities relating to their financial knowledge and experience. These include inputting technical expertise and overseeing where appropriate:

· Budgeting, financial control and reporting; 

· Fraud risk reduction;

· Management of deposits and investments; 

· Contract review and management including potential VAT implications;

· Meaningful reporting to the Directors, regulators and high value/ risk donors; 

· Appointment and management of the auditors; 

· Managing short and long term cash flow and reserves policy; 

· Cost recovery of core expenditure needs; 

· Accounting systems, policies and records 

The Treasurer will also help the full Board to understand and consider the financial implications of significant decisions.

The Treasurer will be one of the counter-signatories for online banking and applications to high value funders. 

For full details, please request the candidate pack from the TrusteeWorks team at the email address provided.

This is a remote opportunity.

What are we looking for?

The successful candidate will have a background as a chartered accountant, with experience of risk and strategy. An experience of working with public sector or charities and an understanding of charity finance will be desirable.

Essential

Qualified accountant with hands on experience of managing the finances of an organisation (or equivalent level, Qualified by experience)

Understanding of charity and/ or public sector finances or chartered / management accountant, ready, and able to proactively gain the understanding and insight on charity and public sector finance required for this role

Basic IT skills relevant to the requirements of the role

Hands on experience of governance in a charity or comparable resource-constrained organisation

Experience of managing relationships with auditors and regulators

Strong affinity with and commitment to the work of BfN

Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to a board and other stakeholders

Understanding and commitment to undertake governance and legal duties, including Treasurer responsibilities in particular

Availability to attend Board, FAR and other required meetings, in person or virtual – dates agreed by consultation in advance

Ready, willing and able to provide ad hoc advisory input as required to the Finance and Systems Manager, CEO, FAR, Chair and wider Board by email and attend remote meetings with BfN        

Desirable

Hands on experience of managing or auditing a charity’s finance

Knowledge / experience of the charity SORP

Experience of contributing to business planning

Knowledge of the infant feeding, early years, health or similar sectors

What Difference will you make?

By contributing to a charity that achieves phenomenal impact for women and families, you will have a rewarding opportunity to apply your skills and experience in accounting and finance, for good. You will know that your expertise and insight can really support in an increasingly challenging operating climate, for charities as a whole, not least in the health and social care sector.

Becoming a Director of BfN you will join a charity which is trusted by healthcare professionals and parents alike for the consistent quality of the services we run through mums and parents who have breastfed themselves. You will know the charity makes a difference and has a track-record of effective management and governance.

Time Commitment

Hours: Anticipated to be between two and two-and-a-half days per month.

Deadline: 9am, Monday 12th May 2025

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 Group Coordinator for our Taunton and District 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 Taunton and District area to carry out this role.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

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 Mendip 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.

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 Mendip area to carry out this role.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

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

WHO WE ARE
We are a Kingston-based social enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion. Encouraging different cultures to unite enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. Partnering with cultural, social and sports organisation's, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. Our findings are supported by educational opportunities designed to broaden perspectives.

Ready for an adventure? Dive into the heart of Quilombo UK by exploring our website and videos! Discover our mission, values and the impactful work we do to make a difference in our community.

Your journey with purpose begins here

Join us in creating positive change!

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Join our dynamic team as a Volunteer HR Recruiter and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our non-profit Organisation. As a key member of our Human Resources team, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end recruitment process, ensuring the acquisition of talented individuals passionate about our mission. Your expertise will contribute to building a dedicated and skilled workforce, enabling us to impact the community positively. This role offers a unique opportunity to utilise your HR recruitment skills for a meaningful cause while gaining valuable experience in the non-profit sector.

Collaborate with hiring managers to identify hiring needs and implement effective sourcing strategies,
Interview and Selection
Build and maintain a strong talent pipeline.
Conduct initial screening interviews to effectively evaluate the candidates’ skill set and cultural fit while providing an engaging experience.
Foster positive relationships with candidates, keeping them informed about the status of their applications.
Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws and regulations.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date candidate records and recruitment metrics.

 REQUIRED SKILLS:

Proven experience as an HR Recruiter or in a similar role
Familiarity with job boards and professional social platforms
Strong understanding of recruitment processes and employment laws
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Office based skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Excellent time management and organisational skills
Strong marketing and negotiation skills
Outstanding teamwork skills and ability to create relationships at all levels, showing respect to different types of people.
Professionalism and Confidentiality

WHAT WE OFFER:

Opportunity for professional growth and development in Recruitment and other HR departments depending on your knowledge and learning aptitude.
A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and innovation.
Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday to Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Contract length: 16 weeks

Expected hours: No less than 12 per week

Benefits:

• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Flexitime

Work Location: Remote

                      While gaining invaluable experience, practice your passion within real-life scenarios. 

Join a group who aspire to think big, have fun, and create work that stands out. We’re looking for a passionate dedicated individual to join our team, who will play a key role in the growth of our brand messages and visions. The ideal candidate will assist us to conduct research and gather information on various projects.

Responsibilities
Conduct relevant research, gather information on various projects
Write research reports
Working closely with the communications team

Requirements
Good attention to detail.
Strong verbal, written and organisational skills.
Self-starter, dedicated and willing to learn. 
Microsoft Word and Excel skills.

Please note the role is a voluntary position and could be entirely remote. Any incurred reasonable expenses will be paid.
 
ABOUT TESYouth
TESYouth (Training, Employment Opportunities & Social Development for Youth) is a NFP social enterprise which focuses on improving the rate of youth employment, through volunteering, interactive and skill-based workshops, work-experience and training programmes. Together with our strategic partners, we collaborate with organisations to provide youth to develop their skills, and to assist in achieving their career aspirations.

Trustee – PR & Marketing Specialist

Help shape the future of deer conservation and education

The British Deer Society (BDS) is looking for a passionate and experienced professional to join our Board of Trustees, bringing expertise in PR and marketing to help us expand and diversify our reach.

Why join us?

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in guiding BDS, ensuring we achieve our mission to educate, inspire, and advocate for deer welfare. You’ll provide strategic oversight, support our executive team, and help grow our membership by engaging diverse audiences across age, gender, and background.

About the role

Our Trustees share collective responsibility for the governance and administration of the charity. This includes ensuring BDS has a clear strategy, that our goals align with our vision, and that we operate effectively and ethically. Trustees act as a group, working collaboratively to support and challenge the leadership team.

What we’re looking for

We seek a Trustee with:
✔ Expertise in PR and marketing, ideally with experience in membership growth and audience engagement
✔ A strong understanding of governance and strategic oversight
✔ A passion for conservation, education, and wildlife advocacy

By joining BDS, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of deer conservation and education in the UK.

Interested? Apply now and help us take BDS to the next level! 

OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation was established as an educational charity in 2003. Our aim is to develop spiritual awareness and to support people of all faiths, and none, by delivering a range of training programmes that allow open-hearted adults to serve their chosen communities through Ministry, Spiritual Counselling and in supporting life’s transitions. Our interfaith ministers bring unconditional love and radical commitment to members of the public through ceremony, ritual, spiritual counselling, and other methods of support.

We are seeking new trustees, with a focus on marketing and/or legal experience, with a commitment to the vision and purpose of the organisation to join our board. Trustees are appointed for a term of 4 years and are essential to the progress and growth of our organisation.

Organisational purpose:

To benefit the public by the education of mature adults in:
• the core principles of the world’s religions, faiths, and spiritual traditions;
• principles and methods of forgiveness, reconciliation and peace-making;
• and the practice of non-denominational spiritual and pastoral service in the community.

Our Vision

is a world in which humanity awakens into an inclusive global spirituality that encompasses us all in the field of love and life.

Our Mission

is to work towards evolving consciousness in the world, by facilitating open-hearted people to awaken to inner leadership and their capacity for forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace-making.

Ideally, you will have experience working in a not-for-profit organisation and will be passionate about spiritual life and faith-freedom. We would particularly love to hear from anyone with experience of Human Resources, Adult Education, Financial Management, Fundraising, Legal, and IT.

Formal trustee meetings take place with senior staff quarterly, and we hold up to nine trustee-only meetings annually. To ensure our work is collaborative, we also have an annual two-day gathering of trustees and the wider leadership team. All trustees are volunteers, with expenses available for travel to and from meetings and other incidental expenses where applicable. Please note that meetings are currently being held via Zoom.

We have a strong commitment to diversity and aim to reflect the diversity of the communities we work with on our Board of Trustees. We welcome all candidates irrespective of sex, gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, culture, religion, age, responsibilities for dependants, physical/mental disability (“protected characteristics” as per the Equality Act 2010), economic status or offending background.

We welcome both OneSpirit ministers and candidates who are not OneSpirit ministers.  However, we expect all candidates to adhere to OneSpirit’s code of ethics.

Submit a CV and a cover letter to express your interest.

Those who submit their CV will be considered and will be invited to an informal insight event towards Janunary 2025 before interviews occur.

What does a Trustee do! 

A Trustee’s role is to act in the best interests of the organization. They are accountable for the organization’s finances, legal affairs, overall performance, and serious arising issues. Trustees must ensure that executives align with the organization’s purpose and mission, acting in ways that advance these goals and uphold the organization’s values. Statutory duties include ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, safeguarding assets, and maintaining accurate financial records.

Commitment

Each Trustee will attend Trustee meetings on a regular basis, a Trustee may also be appointed as a Co Chair and into other roles such as Treasurer and Secretary, and also may join a committee.

A Little About Us!

Youth Advantage UK is a research-led, un incorporated un registered charitable organisation with the aim to become a CIO soon. We use a research-led approach promote and further the rights and interests of young people through positive action such as projects, policy work and research. We promote and empower change.

What we are looking for!

We are looking to appoint experienced Trustees with a background in one or more of the following areas: finance, law, academia, research, leadership, youth sector, policy, education, social action, human rights, issues facing young people and fundraising.

Why we need you!

Youth Advantage UK are in our early stages but are growing and looking for Trustees to help achieve our aims to become a registered charitable organisation. Your skills and expertise are what we need to continue to grow. 

​What we offer!

Anybody who wishes to help and contribute to a good cause are welcome to join us. By being a Trustee with us you have the chance to learn something new and contribute to a successful organisation who is looking to help young people in the UK.

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

As part of the role, you will be editing short videos, including promos and documentary style shorts, as well as longer podcast episodes for distribution on YouTube and social media. The role is hybrid, largely working from home but with the opportunity to work in studio doing live editing, file storage management and admin, as well as the chance to learn other production skills and gain experience in live broadcast, camera operation, lighting, and sound engineering and editing.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe After Effects
• Proficiency in Adobe Audition
• Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop
• Experience with colour grading and mixing

Optional Skills:

• Proficiency with DSLR cameras and digital camcorders
• Previous broadcast, live streaming, or podcast recording experience
• Knowledge and experience of OBS and use of ATEM Mini
• Experience with USB microphones
• Experience with multi-mic setup
• Experience with audio mixing and audio mixing software

We are looking for someone who can offer 12 hours a week, Monday - Friday

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview and discuss the onboarding process.

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

We are seeking a volunteer Trustee to join the Board of Trustees at WORTH to collectively oversee the administration and financial governance of the charity. The board is our governing body, providing strategy and direction and ensuring WORTH is run according to the rules.

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals with business, finance and fundraising experience in corporate or charity sectors to join us.

About WORTH

WORTH is a charity providing long term aftercare to women affected by Domestic Abuse. We offer clients 1-1 support and a range of wellbeing groups including art, writing, music and self-defence to help rebuild their confidence and self-esteem.

We provide a safe space for clients to share experiences, give and receive practical and emotional support, learn new skills, reduce isolation, build friendships, and give women their voice back. It is a space where women can focus on their future and we can support our clients in their healing, post abuse.

To be able to provide this support we rely on a great team of volunteers with a wide skill set and a whole lot of passion to enable our services to work effectively.

Our Board of Trustees play a vital role in making sure that WORTH achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management, administration and governance of the charity. They also ensure that WORTH has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the CEO to enable WORTH to grow and thrive and support more women in need.

Trustee Duties:

• Support and provide advice on WORTH's purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee WORTH's financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve WORTH's financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to WORTH's CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Keep abreast of changes in WORTH's operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of WORTH's own governance.
• Attend regular Trustee Board meetings and be adequately prepared to contribute to  discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect WORTH's interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of WORTH's objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Trustee Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising meeting papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking and skills on our Board of Trustees. We are particularly interested in candidates with business, finance and fundraising experience.

Previous governance experience is preferable but not essential. The role is open to remote and local applicants.

Applicant minimum age is 18.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as a Board of 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.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
• Willingness to lead according to the values of WORTH.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• Knowledge and experience of business, finance and/or fundraising.
• An understanding of Domestic Abuse is an advantage but not essential as training will be provided.
• An understanding of client confidentiality, safeguarding, diversity and inclusivity in the services provided by WORTH.

Terms of office

• Trustees are appointed for a two year term of office, with eligibility to renew and serve for two further terms to a maximum of six years.
• This is a voluntary unpaid position.

Time commitment

• Attending a minimum of six trustee board meetings annually, meetings are held remotely via Zoom once every two to three months.
• Attendance at ad hoc trustee meetings in addition to the minimum six annual meetings.

About Bank.Green

Since the Paris Agreement, global banks have poured a staggering $6.9t into the fossil fuel industry. At Bank.Green, our mission is to lower this vast carbon footprint via technology and consumer action. We empower bank customers with the tools and insights they need to influence their banks towards sustainable lending, or switch to greener alternatives. To date, our bank-checking tool has been used over 500,000 times by bank customers worldwide, while we have shifted at least £40m towards banks who are financing a greener future. Through transparency, engagement, and innovation, we aim to redefine the role of banks in the fight against climate change.

Role Overview

As our Major Gifts Fundraiser, you will play a leading role in identifying, cultivating, and stewarding high-value donors to power our mission. You’ll also help shape a supporter journey that includes appropriate engagement opportunities for a wider range of donors—such as legacy givers, mid-level donors, and monthly supporters—ensuring our broader communications create pathways for meaningful connection and support.

This is a unique opportunity to develop your skills in major donor fundraising while also helping shape the donor engagement strategy of a fast-moving nonprofit focused on systemic change in the financial sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Proactively research and identify new major donor prospects, particularly individuals with an interest in climate, finance, or systems change.
• Reach out to and cultivate relationships with potential major donors, coordinating communications and developing tailored engagement strategies.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director on donor meetings, proposals, and stewardship plans.
• Lead on integrating major donor and legacy messaging into our wider communications, ensuring our email and social channels create clear on-ramps for support across all levels.
• Support the development of donor materials, including impact updates, campaign briefings, and stewardship reports.

Desired Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, especially for high-value audiences.
• Confidence in reaching out to new contacts and representing the organisation’s mission.
• Strategic thinking and creativity in identifying and cultivating funding opportunities.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a remote team environment.
• Passion for environmental issues and climate justice.
• Experience or willingness to learn about major gift fundraising, legacy giving, and donor engagement strategy.

Commitment

• This role is an unpaid volunteer opportunity
• We are seeking a commitment of 5–10 hours per week.
• We are looking for someone to come on long-term, but are open to shorter-term applicants.

Lay Advisory Group member (Patient and Public Engagement)
Average of one to two days per month

Are you interested in healthcare? Pathologists are either doctors or scientists who are experts in diagnosing illness and disease together with supporting the treatment of patients throughout their life.  At the Royal College of Pathologists, we have members from 17 diverse pathology specialities working mainly in hospitals and universities across the UK. We regard lay input as essential to our work in setting standards for training and high-quality practice of pathology.

Nominations are invited for one post of the Lay Advisory Group. The successful candidate will be in post for a period of three years in the first instance, within the College’s Lay Advisory Group of volunteer members.

The Lay Advisory Group member is responsible for contributing a lay perspective on matters of importance to the College by working with committees or working groups assigned to oversee or manage specific areas of interest.

Lay members contribute the perspectives of patients, people who use services, experts in related fields of interest, or communities to a committee's work. This means they tend to offer a different point of view from other members on a committee. Lay members usually have a strong understanding of what matters most for people using health services.

AVAILABLE ROLES

We consider lay input as essential to our work, ensuring that we always see our professional activities through the prism of the patient and the public. We are recruiting to fill specific lay roles within the College according to applicants’ background and expertise. We also wish to be able to call on our Lay Advisory Group to advise on ad hoc issues as needed, and to review certain guideline documents.

Public Engagement (1 post)

The focus of this new post will be working with the Corporate and Public Engagement Manager in promoting awareness of College function and its 17 pathology specialties to our target audiences. They will support the development and delivery of public engagement events and activities. There will be opportunities to assist in the review and development of planned resources and materials to support public engagement.

The post-holder will also provide, with other lay members, input to College guidance for the profession.

This post would suit an applicant with a background in public engagement (in health or otherwise), or with experience in the health sector. Experience in patient involvement and engagement would be an advantage as this is an area that the College is looking to develop and expand on over the next few years.

WHAT IS THE COMMITMENT?

• Become familiar with the College, its high-level processes, and the detailed work of specific group(s) or committee(s). This may include occasional attendance at College Council as an observer.
• Through membership of one or more College committees, advise the College Council and provide a lay perspective on College matters, acting as a ‘critical friend’.
• Keep up-to-date with the College’s activities through access to Presidents’ newsletters, The Bulletin and website.
• As needed and by negotiation, provide lay input to ad hoc work as required e.g. to develop a College policy position on specific topics of public concern.
• Horizon scan for issues of possible interest to the College.
• Reporting within the Lay Advisory Group and to the Clinical Director on the lay input to committees with which they are working with and attend 3 annual Lay Advisory Group meetings at the College or online.
• Contribute to an annual report to Council that is submitted in writing by the relevant committee(s) on which they sit.

The closing date for applications is Monday 5th May 2025.

Selection will be by application and interview, and full induction will be given on appointment.

Applications will be considered by a panel comprising a Lay Trustee, Clinical Director of Publishing and Engagement and a relevant subject specialist. An interview (either in person or via tele/video conference) will be arranged to confirm interest, suitability and the role itself.

The panel will make a final decision on appointment to the role.

Lay Member posts are not remunerated, but all expenses are covered. 

We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion within our organisation, as well as using our voice and platform to help make pathology as a profession more inclusive. This means reflecting critically on issues of diversity and inclusion within all that we do, identifying and taking appropriate actions to reduce inequality, and welcoming challenge.

We welcome applications from anyone regardless of their disability, ethnicity, heritage, gender, sexuality, religion or socio-economic background.