Mental health volunteer roles

What are Serving Community Teams? 

Volunteers are the lifeblood of SSAFA. SSAFA has developed Serving Community Teams for volunteers to support serving personnel and their families in the UK and overseas. 

A Serving Community Team is run by a small team of volunteers on or near a British Armed Forces base which provides emotional, practical and financial support to the serving community. Our Chair is the key part of the team, coordinating the activities of volunteers to ensure financial stability and a safe and effective volunteer service. You will network locally to build relationships with the serving community, other stakeholders and welfare organisations. You will collaborate with the other SCT volunteers to support them in their roles as well as working with employees in the Serving Community Support Team to ensure the functions of the SCT run well, are documented appropriately, and reported on annually. 

Why we want you

Serving Community Teams (SCTs) offer financial, practical and emotional support to serving personnel and their families at military bases both in the UK and overseas. Each SCT consists of a group of dedicated volunteers, working together to raise SSAFA’s profile, ensuring those who need support receive it. If you would like to lead and develop a SCT, we’d love to hear from you. Our SCT Chair is the key player, coordinating the activities of the volunteer team to deliver beneficiary support and ensure a safe, effective and financially stability SCT. You will network locally to build relationships with the serving community, other stakeholders and welfare organisations. You will support your SCT volunteers in their roles as well as working with employees in SSAFA’s Serving Community Support Team to ensure the functions of the SCT are run well, documented and reported on annually.

What you will be doing

• Leading the volunteer team, ensuring SSAFA’s values, policies and procedures are followed.
• Being an ambassador for SSAFA, building positive relationships with the chain of command, local SSAFA branches and services, welfare services and other key stakeholders.
• Working closely with your volunteers to establish an annual plan of activities to include fundraising, awareness raising and support.
• Having oversight of all the functions of the SCT, ensuring beneficiaries receive effective support, and volunteers have an opportunity to regularly meet regularly.
• Reporting on the activities the SCT undertakes and their impact, ensuring annual reports are submitted.
• Promoting the work of SSAFA and the SCT, highlighting case studies and good news stories to employees in the SSAFA PR team and Serving Community Support Team.
• Being available to consider any grant applications when received.
• Working closely with employees in the Serving Community Support Team, building on volunteer recruitment and and sharing best practice.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable with effective IT and communication skills.
• Empathy and understanding of the challenges that the serving community can face.
• Experience of successfully leading a team.
• Understanding of the importance of boundaries and confidentiality.
• Skilled at reporting on activities, achievements and impact and an understanding of the importance of volunteers and employees working together.
• Non-judgemental approach when working with beneficiaries.
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.

What's in it for you

• Support people in your local serving community using your skills, knowledge and life experience.
• Gain experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and at job interviews.
• Receive support and friendship from your local SSAFA Serving Community Team and the wider SSAFA community.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

Requirements 

Volunteers need to be a minimum of 18 years old.

Time commitment 

This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a few hours each week. SSAFA’s Serving Community Support Team are always available should you wish to discuss this further.

Support 

Full training is provided for this role, with some e-learning modules online. You will be supported by SSAFA’s Serving Community Team Manager and Serving Community Support Team. 

SSAFA Values 

For SSAFA, our values of commitment, compassion, integrity and understanding underpin everything we do, and we ask that all volunteers are equally committed to them. 

After making an application 

Once you’ve applied, you’ll receive updates to the email address you provided in your application. Sometimes the emails we send go into junk folders, so do keep an eye out in the days following your application.

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

We are looking for a Volunteer Handyperson to help support us with maintenance of our safehouse. Tasks will include:

•Lifting, carrying, and transporting items in a safe manner

•Painting and repairs

•Installing shelving, building flatpack furniture and general maintenance tasks

•Sharing knowledge of general maintenance with service users to empower them to do it themselves going forward

Our volunteers come from all walks of life and have a wide range of experience and motivations for wanting to volunteer with us. Whatever your reason for deciding to volunteer, we want to make sure you enjoy your time with us and know just how much we value your support.

This role requires maturity, and an ability to engage with adults in a trauma informed way, while working alongside staff members to deliver the activities in line with agreed procedures and systems

Volunteers need to:

•Be at least 18 years old

•Be able to get to get to the venue based in the Thanet area

•Be able to commit 1 day per week

•Have previous health and safety knowledge or experience

•Have a good standard of spoken and written English

•Be computer literate to be able to complete any online training

•Be willing to have an enhanced DBS check

•Have knowledge and understanding of human trafficking issues or willingness to learn

•Have an understanding of the importance of professional boundaries in the role

•Have the ability to maintain confidentiality

Interested? For full details and how to apply please Medaille Trust website.

This position is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just some spare time occasionally, and an ability to get on with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Helper?

SSAFA Helpers provide support to local SSAFA branches, so that the service to veterans and their families can run smoothly. Perhaps you could help out at an event, take care of some office admin, or give a talk about SSAFA?

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We have peak times throughout the year when we need extra volunteers. Whether you enjoy organising behind the scenes or being out meeting the public, we need people who can offer some time on a flexible basis.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role will suit you if you are looking to volunteer on a flexible basis as and when you are available, and we need extra help. You may be based in an office, at home, or out and about at events.

What would you be doing?

• Helping at public events by staffing stalls, stewarding etc
• Helping to distribute Christmas hampers to clients.
• Giving talks about SSAFA to schools and local groups
• Helping with office tasks like stuffing envelopes, ordering marketing materials

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to represent SSAFA and its values to potential clients, their families, other agencies, potential volunteers and potential funders.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to safeguarding, giving advice etc.
• Reliable attitude, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to transport if needed for your role.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

About you:
Are you passionate about supporting young people and families? Do you have a desire to see people flourish and empower change in your community? Have you experienced the care of a friend in difficulties or overcome some hardships and want to give back? If so, being a Family Friend could be the next adventure you embark on this year.

Volunteering activities and commitment:
Our Family Friend volunteers work directly with families by coming alongside parents and children when they need it most, making sure they feel less isolated. This can involve sharing a hot drink to hear about their day; helping a single dad or mum to get out of their home to a local park; or doing an activity with their children that would brighten up their day.

Every family support is unique to you and the family to help them achieve their goals, and always with your agreement. Practically speaking, being a Family Friend is a flexible role that can be fitted in with your other commitments and doesn't have to take up much of your time. 

You will be trained and supported by a local Engagement and Support Coordinator and Family Support Manager who will support you throughout your volunteer recruitment journey and whilst you are volunteering.

Our vision:
Safe Families believes that no one should feel alone. We work with local councils to come alongside isolated and overwhelmed families to create relationship and connection because everyone deserves to belong.

As a Christian Charity, we also believe in the power of the Church community. Does your church have a passion to support, love and welcome newcomers? If so, you can help to be a bridge between your church community and the people you volunteer with. We know this is especially needed at a time when loneliness is an endemic in the UK. 27%
of adults report feeling lonely ‘always, often, or sometimes’, and this can be as impacting on a person’s life as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.  Loneliness steals joy, destroys self-confidence, and limits potential. The cure is community and a sense of belonging. Being a Family Friend is a great way to showcase care and compassion to others.

We look forward to welcoming you as our new Family Friend and celebrating and honouring the milestones in your journey.
 

We are recruiting volunteers to oversee and help at Pride stalls across the UK.  

It Gets Better UK is making the world a better place for LGBTQ+ youth. LGBTQ+ youth in the UK face serious mental health challenges, worsened by societal stigma, discrimination, and a lack of support: 1 in 5 LGBTQ+ young people have experienced suicidal thoughts, and 33% have self-harmed.​

In a world which often tells LGBTQ+ young people not to be themselves, we're providing LGBTQ+ youth with the tools, resources, and support they need to navigate their identities safely, and know they are not alone and that their futures are filled with possibility. We collect and share the stories of LGBTQ+ adults who've been there themselves, to help LGBTQ+ young people find a community where they can see themselves reflected and envisage a future worth experiencing.

At Pride, we share positive stories from members of the LGBTQ+ community. We encourage attendees to share their story, message to their younger self, or message of support. The conversations we have are uplifting and often emotional. 

What will I be doing? 

• Choose one or more Pride events which you commit to attending with us. 

• Help set up and tidy up stand at beginning/end of event. 

• Welcome people to the stall, invite them to learn about stories from others in the community, and share their own stories.

• Support fundraising and raising awareness with our branded badges. 

• Engage event participants in positive messaging opportunities and story-collecting via our whiteboards: “a message to my younger self”. 

• Get photo consent from participants so that we can share their messages on our platforms. 

• Help produce video messages, recording participants' stories of hope. 

• Promote volunteering roles within It Gets Better and let people know to how to get involved. 

• Signpost people to our resources and how we can support them. 

• Listen to stall attendees’ stories with warmth and respect. 

What skills / experience do I need? 

• A personable and friendly manner 

• Confidence in crowds, speaking to strangers and members of the public

• Sensitivity to, awareness of LGBTQ+ issues 

Which Pride events will It Gets Better UK be at?  

• Stockport Pride, Saturday 1 June
• Wolverhampton Pride, Saturday 7 June
• Edinburgh Pride, Saturday 21 June
• Cardiff Pride, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 June
• London Pride, Saturday 5 July
• Bristol Pride, Saturday 12 July
• London Trans+ Pride March, Saturday 26 July
• Black Pride London, Sunday 10 August
• Crawley Pride, Saturday 16 August
• Glasgow Pride, Saturday 19 July

• Don’t see us at a Pride near you? Contact us about running a stall with our support!

Time commitment: Pride events are usually Saturdays in June, July, August. Full-day or half-day. 

Support for you: You’ll receive our Volunteer Handbook and attend a briefing. Each stall will have multiple volunteers so nobody is alone.

What will I gain? 

• The satisfaction that you are helping to inspire and empower LGBTQ+ youth 

• Being part of an international movement 

• The opportunity to use your existing skills as well as develop and learn new ones 

• It Gets Better UK will act as a referee for you after your successful participation 

• Reimbursement of expenses incurred (with prior agreement) 

How do I apply?  

Please contact us via Charityjob or our website - We’ll then meet online for an introductory conversation, seek a reference, and share our resources for you to read. 

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just some spare time occasionally, and an ability to get on with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Helper?

SSAFA Helpers provide support to local SSAFA branches, so that the service to veterans and their families can run smoothly. Perhaps you could help out at an event, take care of some office admin, or give a talk about SSAFA?

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We have peak times throughout the year when we need extra volunteers. Whether you enjoy organising behind the scenes or being out meeting the public, we need people who can offer some time on a flexible basis.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role will suit you if you are looking to volunteer on a flexible basis as and when you are available, and we need extra help. You may be based in an office, at home, or out and about at events.

What would you be doing?

• Helping at public events by staffing stalls, stewarding etc
• Helping to distribute Christmas hampers to clients.
• Giving talks about SSAFA to schools and local groups
• Helping with office tasks like stuffing envelopes, ordering marketing materials

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to represent SSAFA and its values to potential clients, their families, other agencies, potential volunteers and potential funders.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to safeguarding, giving advice etc.
• Reliable attitude, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to transport if needed for your role.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just some spare time occasionally, and an ability to get on with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Helper?

SSAFA Helpers provide support to local SSAFA branches, so that the service to veterans and their families can run smoothly. Perhaps you could help out at an event, take care of some office admin, or give a talk about SSAFA?

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We have peak times throughout the year when we need extra volunteers. Whether you enjoy organising behind the scenes or being out meeting the public, we need people who can offer some time on a flexible basis.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role will suit you if you are looking to volunteer on a flexible basis as and when you are available, and we need extra help. You may be based in an office, at home, or out and about at events.

What would you be doing?

• Helping at public events by staffing stalls, stewarding etc
• Helping to distribute Christmas hampers to clients.
• Giving talks about SSAFA to schools and local groups
• Helping with office tasks like stuffing envelopes, ordering marketing materials

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to represent SSAFA and its values to potential clients, their families, other agencies, potential volunteers and potential funders.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to safeguarding, giving advice etc.
• Reliable attitude, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to transport if needed for your role.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

About Children With Voices
Children With Voices is a dynamic charity focused on empowering children and young people through creative projects, advocacy, and education. Our mission is to give young voices the platform they deserve, supporting them in building confidence and fostering positive change in their communities. As we continue to grow and expand our impact, we are looking for an experienced Senior Human Resources Manager to join us in a volunteer capacity to lead and shape our HR strategies.

Role Overview
We are seeking a proactive and experienced volunteer to take on the role of Senior Human Resources Manager. This is a remote, volunteer position with the option to attend our office, located in Hackney, London, for those who prefer occasional in-person meetings. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and overseeing the HR strategy, policies, and processes that support our staff and volunteers, ensuring that Children With Voices remains a supportive and inclusive workplace.

The ideal candidate will bring substantial HR experience, excellent leadership abilities, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact on the lives of children. You will work closely with the senior management team, providing strategic HR guidance and supporting the growth of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic HR Leadership

   • Develop and implement HR strategies that align with Children With Voices’ mission and values.

   • Advise the CEO and senior management team on HR-related issues, ensuring the HR function supports the organisation’s objectives.

   • Cultivate a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture in line with the organisation’s ethos.

2. Recruitment and Onboarding

   • Oversee and lead the recruitment process, ensuring the organisation attracts and retains talented individuals who are passionate about our cause.

   • Manage onboarding procedures for new staff and volunteers to ensure a smooth integration into the organisation.

3. Employee Relations and Compliance

   • Provide expert advice on employee relations matters, ensuring fairness and compliance with UK employment law.

   • Offer guidance on disciplinary and grievance procedures and ensure that these processes are conducted fairly and in accordance with best practice.

   • Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies and procedures to ensure consistency and fairness across the organisation.

4. Training and Development

   • Identify opportunities for training and development that will enhance the skills of both staff and volunteers.

   • Promote continuous professional development and support leadership initiatives.

   • Ensure that staff and volunteers have access to the necessary tools and resources to succeed in their roles.

5. Wellbeing and Staff Engagement

   • Lead initiatives to promote the wellbeing and mental health of all staff and volunteers.

   • Develop and implement staff engagement programmes to foster a motivated, satisfied, and high-performing workforce.

6. HR Operations and Administration

   • Oversee the day-to-day HR administration, including maintaining accurate records, supporting payroll processing (where relevant), and ensuring that employee benefits are effectively managed.

   • Develop HR reports and provide insights to support decision-making.

   • Ensure all HR activities are managed efficiently and with the highest level of confidentiality.

Key Requirements

• Experience:

  • Proven experience in HR management, with a strong understanding of employment law and best practices.

  • Experience in managing employee relations, performance management, recruitment, and organisational development.

  • Experience working with senior teams to implement HR strategies.

• Skills:

  • Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and provide strategic guidance.

  • High organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a remote working environment.

  • Sound knowledge of HR software and systems for managing HR functions.

  • Ability to work independently and remotely, with occasional in-person meetings as required.

• Qualifications:

  • CIPD Level 7 or equivalent HR qualification is desirable, but not essential.

  • A commitment to continuous personal and professional development.

Why Volunteer With Us?
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference to a charity that is transforming the lives of children and young people. As Head of HR, you will play a key role in shaping the organisation’s culture and helping us build a strong, sustainable team. We offer flexibility with remote working and provide the chance to engage in impactful work that aligns with your professional HR experience while contributing to a meaningful cause.

By volunteering with Children With Voices, you will gain valuable experience and have the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals while making a tangible difference.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just some spare time occasionally, and an ability to get on with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Helper?

SSAFA Helpers provide support to local SSAFA branches, so that the service to veterans and their families can run smoothly. Perhaps you could help out at an event, take care of some office admin, or give a talk about SSAFA?

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We have peak times throughout the year when we need extra volunteers. Whether you enjoy organising behind the scenes or being out meeting the public, we need people who can offer some time on a flexible basis.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role will suit you if you are looking to volunteer on a flexible basis as and when you are available, and we need extra help. You may be based in an office, at home, or out and about at events.

What would you be doing?

• Helping at public events by staffing stalls, stewarding etc
• Helping to distribute Christmas hampers to clients.
• Giving talks about SSAFA to schools and local groups
• Helping with office tasks like stuffing envelopes, ordering marketing materials

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to represent SSAFA and its values to potential clients, their families, other agencies, potential volunteers and potential funders.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to safeguarding, giving advice etc.
• Reliable attitude, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to transport if needed for your role.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just some spare time occasionally, and an ability to get on with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Helper?

SSAFA Helpers provide support to local SSAFA branches, so that the service to veterans and their families can run smoothly. Perhaps you could help out at an event, take care of some office admin, or give a talk about SSAFA?

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

We have peak times throughout the year when we need extra volunteers. Whether you enjoy organising behind the scenes or being out meeting the public, we need people who can offer some time on a flexible basis.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role will suit you if you are looking to volunteer on a flexible basis as and when you are available, and we need extra help. You may be based in an office, at home, or out and about at events.

What would you be doing?

• Helping at public events by staffing stalls, stewarding etc
• Helping to distribute Christmas hampers to clients.
• Giving talks about SSAFA to schools and local groups
• Helping with office tasks like stuffing envelopes, ordering marketing materials

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to represent SSAFA and its values to potential clients, their families, other agencies, potential volunteers and potential funders.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to safeguarding, giving advice etc.
• Reliable attitude, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to transport if needed for your role.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

YMCA Trinity Group – Trustees

‘Inspiring communities, transforming young lives’

Job Advert Ref: Trustees2025

Registered Address: YMCA Trinity Group, Queen Anne House, Gonville Place, Cambridge CB1 1ND

YMCA Trinity Group is seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees. Our programs span Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, putting people at the core of our mission. We take time to find the right fit, believing that open dialogue builds the strongest Board. We're a dynamic, team-oriented group seeking members who can contribute their unique skills and experience.

We are specifically looking for expertise and skills in the following areas;

· Business Development

· Strategic Planning

· Change Management

· People and Culture

· Finance

· Marketing

· IT

YMCA Trinity Group has served local communities since 1852, and we're committed to a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We also welcome young people seeking Board experience.
 

Trustee roles are both rewarding and demanding. Join us in creating new possibilities for young people and communities. If you're ready to make a difference, we want to hear from you!

Thank you for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you soon!

YMCA Trinity Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all staff to share this commitment.

IvybridgeLink the charity for the BridgeLink Community Centre is looking for trustees with a passion for social justice, a concern for under represented groups and the willingness to support our staff in developing activities and services for our diverse local community.  Useful previous experience would be: fundraising, governance and compliance, community work, education, human resources, IT, buildings management, food and catering.

JOB DESCRIPTION FOR CHARITY TRUSTEES

Overall Purpose

The Board of Trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity Ivybridgelink, supporting its values and developing the organisation's aime and objectives.

Main Responsibilities

• To ensure that the charity and its representatives function within the legal and regulatory framework of the sector continually striving for best practice in governance.
• To uphold the aims and objectives of the charity IvybridgeLink:
  • To promote learning and educational achievement
  • To encourage pathways into employment
  • To support healthy lifestyles and emotional wellbeing
  •  To offer opportunities for recreation / leisure activities
  • To build a positive sense of community
• To determine the overall direction and development of the charity through good governance and clear strategic planning.
• To follow non-discriminatory and non-judgemental practice, and adhere to the confidentiality policies and procedures.
• To ensure the charity complies with regulatory requirements, as laid out in the governing document. 

 Main Duties

• Acting in the best interest of the charity, beneficiaries and future beneficiaries at all times.
• Promoting and developing the charity in order for it to meet the needs of local residents. 
• Overseeing sound financial management of the charity’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the organisation’s objectives, and investment activities meet accepted standards.
• Overseeing recruitment processes following safer recruitment procedures.
• Monitoring the effective and efficient administration of the charity and its resources.
• To follow the IvybridgeLink confidentiality policy and maintain absolute confidentiality regarding all information shared or received.
• An understanding and commitment to equalities issues in relations to working in the community.
•  Support the centre’s management team to deliver projects and run events

Accountable to:

As the board are responsible and liable for the governance and functioning of the charity,they are accountable in varying degrees to a variety of stakeholders, including: service users, members, funders, the Charity Commission, and Companies House. Close attention must be given to the governing document to ascertain the type of organisational structure and the range of interested parties.

Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.

Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year

Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.

Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.

Location:Oxfordshire

Reporting: To the Board of Trustees

Reference Documents:

Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide

Charity Governance Code

Charity Commission Guidance

Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at

Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.

To apply, please send a copy of your CV accompanied by a covering letter to our recruitment team, alternatively, visit our website or more information.  

Oxfordshire Youth

Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.

1.Charity Trustees

The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles: 

● the Chair of the Board of Trustees

● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager 

● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee 

● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee

2.The Role of the Board

At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.

3.Duties of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association 

● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be 

● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization

● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth 

● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds 

● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance 

In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

4. Minimum Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours (typically 6.30-9.30pm). Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.

5.Person Specification

Each trustee must have: 

● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth 

● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement 

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

● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims 

● Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind 

● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticise 

● Integrity

The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas: 

● Leadership and human resource management 

● Financial management, income generation and enterprise 

● Safeguarding experience and expertise 

● Public policy and public affairs 

● National and local youth sector

For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the legal profession, or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide legal advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.

Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work. 

Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.

6. Trustee Role Boundaries

Trustees in a decision-making capacity:

● As a board of trustees 

● As a sub-committee

● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary 

● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary

Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:

1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.

2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.

3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.

Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-p

Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.

Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year, 

Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.

Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.

Location: Oxfordshire

Reporting: To the Board of Trustees

Reference Documents:

Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide

Charity Governance Code

Charity Commission Guidance

Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at

Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.

Oxfordshire Youth

Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.

1.Charity Trustees

The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles: 

● the Chair of the Board of Trustees

● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager  

● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee  

● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee

2.The Role of the Board

At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.

3.Duties of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are:

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association  

● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be  

● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization

● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth  

● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds  

● Ensure appropriate safeguarding governance, processes, training and competences are in place to safeguard children, young people, adults, staff and others that OY may come into contact with

● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance  

In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

4.Minimum Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours, these usually take place in the evening. Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.

5.Person Specification

Each trustee should have:

● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth

● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement

● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims

Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind

● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticize

● Integrity

● An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship (although further training will be provided)

The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas: 

● Leadership and human resource management  

● Financial management, income generation and enterprise  

● Safeguarding experience and expertise  

● Public policy and public affairs  

● National and local youth sector

For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the marketing, pubic relations and business development profession; or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide marketing, pubic relations and business development advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.

Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work. 

Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.

6.Trustee Role Boundaries

Trustees in a decision-making capacity:

● As a board of trustees  

● As a sub-committee

● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary  

● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary

Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:

1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.

2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.

3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.

4. Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-posting people to OY.