Lgbtq volunteer volunteer roles

Al Naasih is a 1‑to‑1 mentoring programme established by Hidayah in March 2020. It seeks to support queer Muslims struggling to reconcile their faith and identity. Mentors are trained in relevant skills (emotional intelligence, active listening, managing relationships, etc.) and paired with mentees to help them achieve personal goals. Within this role you will:

· Provide empathetic, non-judgemental support for mentees working through challenges related to faith, identity and wellbeing

· Help mentees set and achieve personal goals

· Act as a positive role model and safe space

· Assist mentees in exploring reconciling their faith with their LGBTQ+ identity, supporting spiritual, emotional, and practical wellbeing

Please this role is UK based and online/virtual.

What are the key responsibilities of this role?

This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:

· Build a trusting and respectful relationship with mentee

· Be in regular contact: at least once per month, according to what works best)

· Help mentees identify goals, hurdles, and strategies to work towards those goals

· Listen actively and empathetically; offer guidance rather than prescribing solutions

· Maintain confidentiality, boundaries, and ethical conduct

· Attend required training sessions (1‑on‑1) to develop mentoring skills (emotional intelligence, active listening, relationship management, etc.)

· Reflect on own practice; be open to feedback and possibly supervision / check‑ins

What do we expect from an Al Naasih Mentor?

Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:

Essential:

· Must be a queer Muslim

· Strong empathy, patience, and trustworthiness

· Comfortable discussing issues around faith and sexuality / identity

· Good communication skills; active listening; emotional intelligence

· Ability to set and maintain healthy boundaries

· Reliability and consistency (making time for regular sessions)

· Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding mentee’s personal information

·Ability to recognise limits of the mentoring role (e.g. not a therapist / counsellor) and refer on where needed

· Able to respect the mentee’s autonomy and pace

Desirable:

· Prior experience of mentoring, coaching, or peer‑support work

· Some understanding of LGBTQ+ issues within Muslim communities

This role will report to the Al Naasih Programme Coordinator or designated lead.

 

How much commitment is required?

This is a voluntary role with flexible hours subject to the agreement between you and your mentee. However, the following are vital to the success of this role:

· Minimum once per month meetings (virtual) with mentee

· Time needed to prepare, reflect, and possibly attend training or support / supervision meetings

· Duration per mentee: to be mutually agreed, depending on goals and needs

· Up to three mentees once comfortable with the role

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting Lambeth Links in their search for their CEO.

Lambeth Links is a small charity with a big ambition: to be a central point of rallying, communication and advocacy for the LGBTQIA+ Community who live, work and socialise in Lambeth – the largest borough in London. The organisation aims to strengthen the links between individuals and groups while also highlighting the many issues that continue to adversely affect the community.

Lambeth has a deep and rich history of LGBTQIA+ activism. From being home to founding members of the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) to hosting Europe’s first EuroPride in Brixton in 1992, the borough has long been the beating heart of the LGBTQIA+ Community. Lambeth Links exists to continue that legacy of championing collective voice and driving forward change.

As CEO, you will lead the operational and strategic running of the charity, make sure that the organisation runs well every day and that it has the people, systems and income to grow.

The ideal candidate will have :

• Significant experience of leading at senior level in a charity, social enterprise, public or community organisation. This might be as a Chief Officer, Director or Head of a significant function with clear accountability for people, budgets and organisational performance.
• Experience of working directly with or supporting a Board of Trustees or similar governing body, including preparing papers, giving honest advice and implementing decisions.
• Experience of organisational development or change, for example improving systems, structures, culture or ways of working in a small organisation.
• Understanding of the issues faced by LGBTQIA+ people, including those who are Black or from other communities of colour, disabled people and people with insecure immigration status, and a commitment to intersectional practice.

​​​​How to Apply

If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following by 11.59pm on 21/12/2025:

• A detailed CV, setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements. 
• A cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) highlighting your suitability for the role. Please explain how you meet the essential criteria and give one or two examples that show how you have already operated at, or very close to, Chief Officer level. For example, leading an organisation or major function, managing whole organisation budgets or income plans, or steering a Board or governing body through a key decision. 
• Details of two professional referees together with a brief statement of their relationship to you and over what period of time they have known you. Referees will not be contacted without your prior consent.

We’re looking for a motivated, creative and highly organised I Am Proud Stage Manager to supervise the I Am Proud sub-team and lead the delivery of our event’s panel stage, programming entertainment that represents and celebrates the bi+ community.

Ideal time commitment: approx. 5-10 hours per month; flexible. This is likely to increase on the approach to an event.

Location: remote/ home based, in-person attendance at events is desirable.

Supported/ supervised by: the Head of Events, also working closely with volunteers in the I Am Proud Stage sub-team and Events team.

Bi Pride UK’s mission is to create spaces where people who experience attraction beyond gender can be freely visible and celebrate themselves and their identities. It’s not enough to be ‘welcome’ at Pride. We make up a very large proportion of the queer community – the 2021 Census actually shows we’re half of the community – and we deserve to be visible and celebrated in our own right.

There are many ways to make this happen, and we work in many ways to bring this change about:

• Outreach work with other Prides, LGBTQ+ organisations and bi organisations – our consultation work with local Prides, the UK Pride Organisers Network and local and national LGBTQ+ organisations works in a tailored way to make sure that bi inclusion is a top priority and is being done well
• Organising a high-profile annual Bi Pride event – from September 2019, Bi Pride UK made history with the largest ever gathering of bi people recorded. A performance stage, a panel stage, stall village, street food, and over 1,300 attendees. After going virtual with the BiFi Festival for 2020 due to Covid-19 and running a virtual Pride event in 2021, we came back in person in 2022 with a hybrid event, and have been running the event in this format ever since
• Building a strong online and virtual community – just as important as the rest of our work is making sure that people hear about it! People need to know what resources and spaces exist for them, and how they can connect with other people like them

The role:

The Events team at Bi Pride UK is one of the core operational teams within the charity. The team handles programming, production and execution of our events, including our annual flagship Bi Pride event, which holds the record for the largest Bi Pride event in the world. The I Am Proud Stage Manager will take operational responsibility for the I Am Proud Stage within Bi Pride UK’s events; a panel-based stage which spotlights intersectional discussions, interviews and activism, dedicated to the bi+ experience. 

The I Am Proud Stage Manager will lead on the planning and delivery of the I Am Proud Stage programming at Bi Pride UK’s events, and will be supported by a small team of I Am Proud Stage Assistant Managers. The I Am Proud Stage Manager will also supervise the I Am Proud Stage sub-team, as well as the I Am Proud Stage’s “on-the-day” event volunteers. The holder of this role will work to provide a programme of live entertainment that represents and celebrates bi+ people, their voices and their experiences.

Key tasks of this role will include: 

• Working closely with the Head of Events and Events Trustee, as well as volunteers across the charity, to deliver an I Am Proud Stage provision that meets the charity’s vision;
• Booking a diverse range of speakers and hosts, after contributing to assessments of each speaker’s application for suitability/ reputational risk against the aims and objectives of Bi Pride UK;
• Liaising with the venue, the venue’s technical team and speakers to arrange the logistics for the I Am Proud Stage delivery (including agreeing upon riders, stage layout and equipment, lighting and sound requirements and arrival/ panel times, etc.);
• Overseeing the completion of speaker contracts, receipt of invoices and other relevant documentation, including accurate record keeping and storage of such documents;
• Leading logistical aspects to ensure the smooth running of the I Am Proud Stage on the day of the event, including stage set up/ take down, time management/ scheduling, troubleshooting any issues arising on the I Am Proud Stage and liaising with other departments involved in the I Am Proud Stage delivery (e.g. lighting and sound technicians, streaming technicians, Artist Liaison volunteers, speakers, BSL interpreters, etc.);
• Supervising a small team of year-round volunteers (dedicated to the planning of the I Am Proud Stage programming) and a small team of “on-the-day” event volunteers (responsible for the smooth delivery of the I Am Proud Stage programming at the event);
• Maintaining positive relationships and facilitating effective communication with prospective speakers, confirmed speakers, volunteers, the venue, and any other relevant stakeholders;
• Working with the Access & Inclusion team and the Accessibility Consultant to implement their recommendations and ensure the I Am Proud Stage is fully accessible. 

Our team volunteers remotely from anywhere in the UK, with some travel required occasionally (primarily for our flagship Pride event in London in August). All reasonable expenses incurred are reimbursed, including travel, lunch at away days and other all day events, and some childcare costs if required. The successful candidate will be invited to fortnightly Events team meetings on Wednesday evenings via conference call, in addition to I Am Proud Stage programming meetings which will be scheduled in line with the team’s best availability. 

Volunteer specification:

• Interest and passion for tackling discrimination against and improving the visibility of people in the UK attracted to more than one gender;
• An understanding of the needs of people and communities in the UK attracted beyond gender;
• Commitment to the aims and objectives of Bi Pride UK;
• Experience of stage management; 
• Understanding of organising event logistics (e.g. venue layout, timings, resources) and good awareness of relevant health and safety and risk management measures linked to stage-based performances;
• Ability to manage a team budget; financially planning so that a thought-provoking and high-quality programme of speakers can be booked, whilst remaining within the remit of the assigned budget;
• Some experience of overseeing a team, especially volunteers;
• Ability to handle documentation and accurate record keeping in a manner which adheres to confidentiality and GDPR requirements;
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective working relationships with volunteers at all levels within the organisation, as well as with external contributors (for example, speakers);
• Excellent IT skills (for example, Google Workspace applications);
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Meticulous attention to detail;
• Strong team player, with the ability to self-motivate when working remotely;
• Availability on Saturday 29th August 2026 to support delivery of Bi Pride’s flagship event in London.

The position is open to anyone over the age of 18. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, especially minority groups such as applicants of colour, trans and non-binary applicants and disabled and/ or neurodivergent applicants. Bi Pride UK is aware of the barriers that can be faced in gaining traditional work experience, particularly for global majority, disabled and/ or neurodivergent and trans people. We will give weight to this and encourage people when applying to consider caring responsibilities, including parenthood, volunteering, and other non-paid experiences and responsibilities when making their application.

Childline Volunteer Counsellor- Someone who wants to make a difference to children’s lives by being there to listen when they feel they have no one else to turn to. As a Childline counsellor, you’ll be there for young people and listen to them as they open up about whatever is worrying them, whether it’s bullying, abuse, self-harm or family relationships – you’ll be there to support them.

What you’ll do

You’ll volunteer in our Leeds Childline base, offering counselling support to children and young people over the phone or through our 1-2-1 online chat. Your supervisor will help you develop and evaluate your counselling skills. After your initial training, you will be able to help young people as well as identify when a child or young person may be at risk, but don’t worry a supervisor will be on hand to give you plenty of support.

What you’ll get

You’ll receive training sessions over 12 weeks to prepare you for the role. When you start your regular shifts, a supervisor will be around all times to support you. Every shift includes a briefing and debriefing alongside other volunteers. Supervisors will also give you regular one-to-one support and group supervisions.

What we’ll need from you

Signing up to be a Childline counsellor is a big commitment and requires lots of training so, we do ask people to stay in the role for a minimum of one year.

We’ll also need to do some routine safeguarding checks, including an enhanced criminal record check and at least two satisfactory references with at least one covering a period of five years or more with no gaps. It’s nothing to worry about, and we can answer any questions you have about this.

Who’s right for the role?

While we think this role is suitable for a whole range of people, we are particularly looking for those with the following qualities and experience.

• Passionate about helping young people and children
• Great communication skills
• Empathetic and perceptive
• able to think on your feet
• works well within a team
• emotional resilience

Why volunteer with us?

Not only will you gain valuable experience throughout your volunteering journey, you’ll also have access to useful resources including a catalogue of online training, discount portal and NSPCC inMind – an online mindfulness resource.

You’ll be fully supported throughout your volunteer journey with us and will have a dedicated key contact should you have any questions along the way.

About Care4Calais 

Care4Calais is a volunteer-led charity delivering essential aid and support to people seeking asylum living in the UK and Northern France. We provide direct aid and advocate for a fair asylum system, including safe routes to claim asylum.

The UK Direct Aid team delivers essential support through practical services; such as running distributions, delivering English classes and casework-style support through drop-ins. The UK Direct Aid team also provides services to promote wellbeing such as trips and sports activities.

UK Area Lead Volunteer

We are looking for a compassionate, organised, and motivated Volunteer Area Leads to oversee a team of volunteers and the delivery of essential services and activities in their area. You must be committed to anti-racism and social justice, particularly for people seeking safety.

We are looking for Leads in the following areas:

• North London (including Brent, Barnet, Camden and Harrow)
• West London (Ealing/Acton)
• Reading
• Oxford
• Surrey (Redhill/ Reigate)
• Bedfordshire 
• Southampton
• Birmingham
• Nottingham
• South Yorkshire
• West Yorkshire

Responsibilities include:

• Organising activities (distributions, drop-ins, conversation clubs)

• Monitoring WhatsApp groups

• Attending and leading meetings

• Sharing updates and resources with volunteers

• Partnering with local organisations and councils

• Attending training

• Ensuring best practice and reflecting Care4Calais objectives

• Monitoring group funds and purchases

• Recording services and support provided

• Ensuring your group reflects Care4Calais’ values and messaging

What you will get

• Comprehensive training to equip you in your role; including safeguarding training, Induction Training, Activities and Distribution Training and Boundaries and Resilience Training. 

• Support from a wonderful team

• Opportunity to develop skills including casework, team management/leadership, admin, organisational, delegating, networking, funding bids, sourcing donations, and building partnerships in the sector

• Greater understanding of the UK asylum system

There are a range of activities that you can organise, including the following:

• English classes/ conversation clubs 

• Drop-ins - help with requests and signpost to support.

• Distributions - provide essential items like clothing, shoes, and toiletries. 

• Sports - activities like yoga, football etc., are a great way to improve wellbeing, and for people to connect with others.

• Trips - organise trips to places such as the park, cinema to help boost mood and give people time away from the hotel.

• Wellbeing activities - sessions like crafts and cooking are popular. 

• Workshops - help with housing once someone receives Leave to Remain; familiarise people with life in the UK.

• Events - mark specific days or holidays to get people together and celebrate. 

• Media/ Press/ Engagements - as a volunteer you may be asked to share a story for our social media or help someone with lived experience to share.

• Remote working - support with tasks such as contacting Migrant Help, helping individuals register with GPS, researching local support, or general admin. 

Care4Calais strongly encourages people with experience of the asylum system to apply, and recognises the specific value that lived experience brings to an organisation.

YMCA Brighton are seeking to recruit volunteer trustees to join our experienced Board, who oversee our organisation's governance, compliance, reach and impact. We value equity, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from everyone, but to fully reflect our client group and the local population, we’re particularly interested in hearing from people with expertise in: Finance, Housing, Health/ Mental Health and/or have lived experience of homelessness and we are keen to broaden the diversity of our Board in terms of ethnicity. 

YMCA Brighton is a registered charity. We provide supported accommodation to over 300 people across the city of Brighton alongside our EVOLVE Work and Learning Service.

Our Mission - We provide the home, the community and the services that equip people to overcome barriers and achieve their aims

Our Vision - Working together to create an inclusive community where everyone can belong, contribute and thrive

Our Values - Community, Compassion and Empowerment

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that YMCA Brighton achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that YMCA Brighton has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the leadership team to enable YMCA Brighton to grow and thrive, and through this achieve our mission to support homeless people of all ages to discover their potential and feel inspired to achieve aspirations and live life to its fullest.

Duties of a Volunteer Trustee:

• Support and provide advice on YMCA Brighton's purpose, vision, goals and activities
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation
• Oversee YMCA Brighton'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 YMCA Brighton's financial statements
• Provide support and challenge to YMCA Brighton's CEO and Leadership Team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs
• Keep abreast of changes in YMCA Brighton's operating environment
• Contribute to regular reviews of YMCA Brighton's own governance.
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions
• Use independent judgement, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect YMCA Brighton's interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests
• Contribute to the broader promotion of YMCA Brighton's objectives, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts

If you share our values and have the passion and drive to help us achieve our vision. We would love to hear from you by submitting your CV and Cover letter expressing your interest by the closing date on Thursday, 15th January 2026.

Do you live in Wales and want to gain valuable skills, have new experiences, and support vulnerable people?

We are offering 6 young people aged 18-25 the opportunity to volunteer with the Portuguese Red Cross in Cucujães, which serves the Municipality of Oliveira de Azeméis. Planned placement dates are: 26th February - 27th May 2026 and 1st June - 7th August 2026.

The Red Cross offers support to the local community in three main areas: Social Assistance and access to Welfare Services, Emergency Response & First Aid and Youth Engagement. Projects include: social assistance and counselling, food bank and food relief, activities for people with disabilities, first aid education, environmental education, activities focused on prevention for at risk youth, intergenerational and community workshops.

The successful volunteer will stay in a shared apartment (with other international volunteers) in a shared bedroom, located in Oliveira de Azeméis and carry out volunteering activities in two different locations (at Local Partner Institution: Centro de Apoio Familiar Pinto Carvalho (Oliveira de Azeméis) and at the Local Branch of the Portuguese Red Cross (Vila de Cucujães).

We would expect volunteers to do no more than 36 hours per week, within a rotating volunteer schedule, which will include two consecutive days per week away from the project. 

It's a fantastic opportunity to get involved in projects and find out what you are interested in. For more details on the role and the projects available, have a look at the role description. The main thing we want to see is your motivation for this placement! These are fully funded placements, with return flights, accommodation and health insurance covered - volunteers receive a small monthly stipend for living expenses.

Please note that only young people based in Wales can apply for this role, as it is Taith funded. Interviews will take place online with shortlisted candidates.

We are keen to hear from individuals especially those who do not normally get the chance to volunteer overseas, who are passionate and motivated about working in the humanitarian sector and international volunteering but who also understand that these types of placements require adaptability and resilience. We are especially interested in applications from those who are from low socio-economic backgrounds, are carers or are care experienced, have accessed free school meals, are refugees or asylum seekers and those with disabilities or additional needs.

Community researchers wanted to help East London Waterworks Park ensure our community-owned park is inclusive and welcoming for all.

East London Waterworks Park is a volunteer-led charity that has won a 2024 New London Architecture award and raised £2m towards buying land from the Department for Education to transform the 14-acre Thames Water Depot on Lea Bridge Road on the border of Waltham Forest and Hackney, into a new biodiverse park with natural swimming ponds, forest schools and community spaces. 

We are looking for community researchers specialised to contribute to our community-led working circle who are working on on a listening project to ensure often underrepresented voices in conservation and environmental projects are heard and centred. 

There is opportunity to lead on projects and facilitate the direction of the working circle.

The Inclusivity Circle currently meets monthly on a Wednesday evening on Google Meet and spends voluntary time outside of the meeting completing agreed tasks remotely.

While your experienced research skills are crucial, we also value your ability to engage with the community and build partnerships. Experience in conducting community-based research or working with community organisations is important. A strong understanding of community dynamics and the ability to collaborate effectively will be invaluable in ensuring your research findings are relevant and impactful. Our roles are quite flexible. We hope that people bring radical imagination, peace with nature, and courageous inclusiveness to the role. 

Contribute to the creation of a new biodiverse community-owned park with free access natural swimming ponds. Your research expertise will be vital in shaping our new biodiverse park. By conducting listening research on community needs, and potential park uses, you'll help us create a sustainable and inclusive space. Your findings will inform our design, programming, and outreach efforts, ensuring the park meets the needs of our community and contributes to biodiversity conservation.

The Jawbone Collective seeks a Volunteer Bookkeeping / Financial Recordkeeping support person to join our thriving arts organisation. As we continue to expand activities and our reach across the Southwest of England, we need someone with financial expertise to help strengthen our operational foundation.

You will work remotely alongside our dedicated management team to develop robust financial processes that will support our journey toward becoming a self-sustaining arts organisation. Your expertise will be instrumental in supporting us in managing our diverse revenue streams, including workshop fees, journal and poetry publications, grants (hopefully we get some soon) and event income.

As part of our inclusive creative community, you'll contribute to an organisation that champions diverse voices, including neurodivergent, disabled, LGBTQIA+ and working-class writers. While a love for literature isn't required, you'll be supporting a mission that makes literary opportunities accessible to all through affordable programs and free submission opportunities.

Role Description

• Initially organising a transition to accounting software
• Train team members in maintain financial records and bookkeeping
• Assist with financial reporting and planning
• Support budget management for our various programmes and publications
• Help track expenses related to workshops, events, and publishing activities
• Contribute to funding applications and financial governance

What We're Looking For

• Experience in financial management and
• Governance required for a CIC (desirable, or be willing to learn) 
• An ability to train team members in necessary software for bookkeeping
• Strong organisational skills
• Ability to work with our creative community-focused team
• Understanding of arts organisation operations (desirable)

About Us

The Jawbone Collective is a dynamic arts organisation dedicated to nurturing creative voices across the Wessex Region. Founded in 2022, we've evolved from our initial mission of publishing the poetry collections of under represented groups to becoming a comprehensive creative hub offering multiple platforms for artistic expression. Our initiatives include the upcoming Jawbone Journal - May 2025; developing a Substack community, Jawbone Radio for spoken word performances; plus workshops - in person and online; and mentoring programs. Based in Dorset, we've established strong creative communities in Dorchester and Bridport as well as attracting attendees to real world activities coming from Dorset, Devon, Wiltshire and Somerset, whilst also maintaining an active online presence attracting people from the UK and across the world.

At our core, we're driven by a commitment to diversity and accessibility in the arts. Our community of 15 core creative members represents a rich tapestry of voices, including creatives from neurodivergent, disabled, LGBTQIA+, female and  working class creators from various age groups and backgrounds. We are actively challenging publishing industry 'norms' by offering affordable and free submission opportunities. We are bridging the gap between performance and page poetry, and creating inclusive spaces where every creative voice can flourish. Through our various platforms and initiatives, we're building a supportive environment where artists can develop their craft, share their work, and connect with a broader creative community.

Working remotely however we would love to meet up with you from time to time.

You are most welcome to attend any of our events and workshops at no cost to yourself.

Amount of hours approx 8 - 16 hours a month depending on projects.

Volunteer Mentor – Make a Difference in a Young Person’s Life

What if one hour a week could change a young person’s life - and yours too?

About Us

MAPS Mentoring is an award-winning early-intervention project that supports vulnerable children and young people in the London Borough of Sutton. Our dedicated volunteers provide a safe, supportive space for young people facing challenges such as low self-esteem, difficult family relationships, abuse, bereavement, or self-harm. Through mentoring, we empower mentees to unpack their experiences, build confidence, and find their voice.

About the Role

We’re looking for Volunteer Mentors to join our MAPS Mentoring team. As a mentor, you’ll meet with a young person in Sutton for 1-2 hours weekly for up to a year. Meetings are flexible and can take place in the evenings, weekends, or during the week for our older mentees, or for in-school mentoring.

No prior experience is needed - just a genuine desire to make a difference in a young person’s life.

With a budget provided for food, drinks, activities, and travel, you and your mentee can choose what to do together. Whether it’s casual coffee chats, dog walks, or saving up for more adventurous outings like GoKarting, Thorpe Park trips, or even indoor skydiving, the choice is yours!

What We’re Looking For

Excellent communication and listening skills
Empathy, patience, and the ability to build trust
Sensitivity and understanding of the challenges young people face
A positive attitude and reliability
Commitment to meeting with a mentee weekly for up to a year
Willingness to undergo a DBS check and attend a full day of training
Prior experience working with young people is welcome but not essential

Why Volunteer with MAPS?

Make a lasting impact on a young person’s life
Gain valuable skills in mentoring and communication
Be part of an award-winning, supportive team
All expenses (food, drinks, activities, and travel) are covered

Ready to Get Started?

Are you passionate about the power of the arts to transform lives and do you have experience in one of the following: the arts, therapeutic arts, management, governance, EDI, the charity sector, developing partnerships, fundraising or safeguarding?

Talitha Arts is seeking volunteers to join the organisation as Trustees. We currently have five Trustees, with backgrounds encompassing human resources, finance, creative arts, coaching, and leadership. We are seeking trustees who would be interested in one or more of the following roles: Chair, Secretary, Equity Diversity and Inclusion, Fundraising and/or Safeguarding.

Our Trustees meet formally four times a year; twice in person in London, Bethnal Green, and twice by video-conference. This is a volunteer position, and all reasonable expenses, including accessibility needs, travel and childcare will be reimbursed.

Who are We?

Talitha Arts is creative arts charity that delivers therapeutic arts workshops that benefit the mental health and wellbeing of those who have experienced trauma (through trafficking, living with dementia, domestic and sexual abuse, homelessness) and/or are living with mental health problems, addiction or disability. We are a small team comprising our Artistic Director (Executive), Fundraiser, and Therapeutic Arts Programme Manager.

Our Mission

We aim to use the power of the therapeutic arts to enable transformation in those in need of mental health support.

Our Vision

To empower all individuals and communities by providing excellent and bespoke therapeutic arts workshops that promote better mental health and well-being, enabling people to reach their full potential.

Equal Opportunities

At Talitha Arts we are committed to creating and supporting an inclusive environment and to celebrate diversity and the value of different backgrounds and experiences. We encourage applications from all backgrounds - we are particularly interested in welcoming global majority candidates, those with disabilities and LGBTQI+ candidates.

Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our organisation's core values and the work we do.

Please apply with a CV and cover letter by the 20th May at 6pm.

Duties

• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.

• To ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects (i.e. the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are).

• To contribute actively to the board of directors' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

• To safeguard the good name and ethos of the organisation.

• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation and to assist with fundraising, where necessary.

• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds.

• To appoint the executive director and monitor their performance.

• In addition to the above statutory duties, each director should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of directors reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, and other issues in which the director has special expertise.

Responsibilities

•  Trustees must have a good understanding of and be sympathetic with the aims and objects of the charity and act in accordance with the governing document at all times.

•  Trustees must act and make decisions in the best interests of the charity, present and future beneficiaries.

•  Where professional assistance is required for the Trustees to be able to make the most appropriate decision affecting the charity, that assistance should be sought and considered carefully.

•  Trustees must not receive any financial or non-financial benefit that is not explicitly authorised by the governing document. Trustees should not exert any influence to garner any preferential treatment for themselves or their family.

 •  Trustees are jointly and severally liable for their decisions; therefore decisions should be taken together and communicated to staff, stakeholders and funders in a unified manner.

•  Trustees are accountable to stakeholders for their actions and as such decision-making and governance issues should be as transparent as possible, except for when confidentiality is required.

•  Trustees should be prepared to spend an appropriate amount of time reading papers and preparing for board meetings, which will be held on a quarterly basis. A minimum attendance of 75% meetings is required of Trustees to ensure that best practice in governance is reached and maintained.

•  Should a Trustee feel that they require further guidance or training in their role, they have a duty to inform the charity secretary and actively develop aspects for new training on an individual or group basis.

•  Any information of a confidential nature must remain so outside the confines of the Trustee meeting.

•  Trustees should familiarise themselves with the ‘Nolan Principles’, and act in accordance with them.

Person Specification

Each Talitha Trustee will have:

•  a passion for supporting survivors of trauma and people who are vulnerable (including trafficking, domestic violence and abuse, people recovering from addiction, refugees and asylum seekers, and people living with dementia)

•  excellent interpersonal and team-working skills

•   a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort

• strategic vision

•  good, independent judgment

•  an ability to think creatively

•  a willingness to speak their mind

•  an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of directorship

•  sympathetic to the Christian faith and Christian ethos at the roots of the charity (Talitha Arts is not a religious organisation and is open to people of all faiths and none)

•  demonstrable commitment to Nolan’s Seven Principles of Public Life (see ‘Code of Conduct – Citizens UK’ document); selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Our Story

Talitha Arts was founded by actor, Amanda Root. It began as a small volunteer organisation, primarily offering mental health support by facilitating arts workshops for International Justice Mission in India and working with professionals in aftercare homes for girls rescued from trafficking and violent abuse.

Over the years, our work has expanded to respond to the needs of U.K. organisations working directly with those who have experienced trauma, abuse, violence, homelessness; ex-offenders, refugees, children, and those who are living with dementia.

Every year as part of our mandate, we train new practitioners in the Talitha Approach to deliver our workshops. Our approach is 'person-centred', meaning it is tailored to the individuals we serve. Our practitioners are both professional creative artists and registered therapists who are passionate about the Talitha Mission.

​At Talitha, we aim to change the world one life at a time by providing mental health support through the power of the arts. 

​We do this by delivering programmes of workshops that support creative expression, foster community, and empower through music, movement, drama and the visual arts.

Volunteers Facilitators for elop’s Training & Education Service
elop’s Training and Education Service delivers workshops; training programmes; and consultancy to professionals and organisations working with the LGBT+ community. As a specialist in LGBT+ Mental Health and Wellbeing, we want to raise awareness of the challenges faced by our community and help organisations become more LGBT+ inclusive and affirmative. Our training programmes get people talking, thinking and planning for change that makes a real difference to LGBT+ people’s lives.
All our volunteer facilitators must positively identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/ or trans (Schedule
9, Part 1, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010 applies).
We are looking to better represent the diversity of our community and actively encourage
 applications from people that identify as male, trans/ non-binary and/or from Black Asian and
Minority Ethnic Groups.

Training Facilitator Volunteer Role Description
By joining the Training & Education Team you will have the opportunity to:
• Facilitate and co-facilitate workshops and training programmes to a range of external
organisations, including schools
• Design and deliver learning activities and presentations, both online and in-person
• Support organisations to improve their services for LGBT+ people
• Be given relevant training and supervision to ensure your development
• Be part of a dynamic team that offers a range of learning opportunities
Induction training will be provided alongside line management support.
Training Facilitator Volunteer Person Specification
Applicants should:
• have experience of presenting to groups, either online or in-person
• be a confident communicator
• be able to think on their feet and respond to questions that can feel challenging
• have awareness of key issues that LGBT+ people face
• understand the impact of discrimination and stigma on mental health

Friends Without Borders (Portsmouth) CIO. The relief of immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees who are suffering hardship or distress or in need, particularly, but not exclusively, in the City of Portsmouth, by the provision of financial and other assistance and raising the awareness of the general public.

As the new Chair your role will be pivotal within our team and we are excited to learn from the unique skills you bring. Your contribution will help Friends Without Borders to flourish and grow and we are excited to welcome you into our dedicated team.

What will you be doing?

Now is an exciting time to join the Board of Trustees at Friends Without Borders and help shape the charity’s future.

This role will allow you to put your professional skills and charity expertise to great use for the benefit of individuals who have had to flee their homes and livelihoods.

The Chair provides leadership to the board, ensuring effective governance, strategic direction and a strong public profile for Friends Without Borders. The Chair will engage trustees, support staff and oversee the charity’s mission in line with legal and regulatory requirements.

What are we looking for?

The ideal Chair will demonstrate:

Experience & Knowledge

• Board level experience, ideally in the charity sector either as a Trustee or a CEO (You do not need to have been a Chair before).
• Knowledge of charity law, governance and reporting requirements.
• Understanding of strategic planning, policy development and risk management.
• Commitment to developing a familiarity with the client group and relevant social/political context.

At Friends Without Borders, we believe that diversity strengthens our work. We warmly welcome applications from individuals who bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to our Board. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of the asylum system, as well as candidates from underrepresented communities. 

What difference will you make?

This is an exciting time to join the Trustee Board at Friends Without Borders and a fantastic opportunity to Influence the growth and future of a dynamic charity

As Chair, you will play a key role in enabling us to continue supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the UK, empowering them to rebuild their lives in safety here in Portsmouth.

This role offers a valuable opportunity to:

• Use your professional skills and experience to make a meaningful difference to individuals who have been forced to flee their homes and livelihoods.
• Contribute strategically to the management and development of a growing charity.
• Deepen your insight and expertise in charity governance, financial oversight, and organisational leadership.

Before you apply

Reach Volunteering are supporting Friends Without Borders with their Board recruitment.

Please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills would add value to the board. Please do also supply the details of two Referees (no contact will be made with Referees without your express permission and only at the point that a Trustee role has been offered and accepted).

At Friends Without Borders, we are committed to meeting the aims set out in our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policies.  As part of this commitment, we invite you to complete an anonymous and voluntary EDI monitoring form. This form is not part of your application and will remain confidential. Please get in touch to request the form.

If you would like to have an informal initial conversation either with the TrusteeWorks team of with a member of Friends Without Borders, please do contact TrusteeWorks who would be happy to arrange this for you.

Friends Without Borders (Portsmouth) CIO. The relief of immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees who are suffering hardship or distress or in need, particularly, but not exclusively, in the City of Portsmouth, by the provision of financial and other assistance and raising the awareness of the general public.

As the new Treasurer your role will be pivotal within our team and we are excited to learn from the unique skills you bring. Your contribution will help Friends Without Borders to flourish and grow and we are excited to welcome you into our dedicated team.

What will you be doing?

Now is an exciting time to join the Board of Trustees at Friends Without Borders. This role will allow you to put your professional skills to great use for the benefit of individuals who have had to flee their homes and livelihoods. It will also provide you with the opportunity to develop your insight and expertise into all aspects of managing a growing charity. 

The Treasurer is a voluntary role that ensures the financial health and accountability of Friends Without Borders. The role combines strategic oversight, advice and hands-on financial management. Between our Client Services Manager and volunteer Bookkeeper, spreadsheets relating to petty cash, income and expenditure are prepared. Our Treasurer will be responsible for payroll, pension payments and tax returns.

What are we looking for?

Essential

• Professional accounting or finance qualification, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with financial systems and controls, ideally but not essentially in a charity or small organisation.
• Understanding of budgeting, forecasting and long-term financial planning.

Desirable

• Familiarity with charity financial regulations, Gift Aid, restricted funds and statutory reporting.

At Friends Without Borders, we believe that diversity strengthens our work. We warmly welcome applications from individuals who bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to our Board. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of the asylum system, as well as candidates from underrepresented communities. 

What difference will you make?

This is an exciting time to join the Trustee Board at Friends Without Borders.

As Treasurer, you will play a key role in enabling us to continue supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the UK, empowering them to rebuild their lives in safety here in Portsmouth.

This role offers a valuable opportunity to:

• Use your professional skills and experience to make a meaningful difference to individuals who have been forced to flee their homes and livelihoods.
• Contribute strategically to the management and development of a growing charity.
• Deepen your insight and expertise in charity governance, financial oversight, and organisational leadership.

Before you apply

Reach Volunteering are supporting Friends Without Borders with their Board recruitment.

Please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills would add value to the board. Please do also supply the details of two Referees (no contact will be made with Referees without your express permission and only at the point that a Trustee role has been offered and accepted).

At Friends Without Borders, we are committed to meeting the aims set out in our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policies. As part of this commitment, we invite you to complete an anonymous and voluntary EDI monitoring form. This form is not part of your application and will remain confidential. Please get in touch to request the form.

If you would like to have an informal initial conversation either with the TrusteeWorks team of with a member of Friends Without Borders, please do contact TrusteeWorks who would be happy to arrange this for you.