Patient Support Volunteer Roles in Leeds

Could you use your social media, marketing and communications experience to raise the profile of a small charity? Help us to increase our social media presence and engagement, generate greatr content and help promote existing activities.

Our charity delivers a range of awareness campaigns and support services to patients, relatives, partners and carers who have been affected by a poorly understood pain condition; Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). We are looking for 2 experienced social media and communications volunteers who are able to develop posts and campaigns from design to inception, create fresh and engaging content, increase engagement and to increase awareness of the charity and of the condition we represent.

Even though we are a small organisation we have big ideas and would like to draw on your experience in the communications world to help the charity deliver engaging content and communications to help us spread our aims and message to all our audience.

What Will You Be Doing?

• Help increase engagement, improve the number of followers/likes, create & execute a content calendar
• Produce fresh, branded and engaging content for our social media channels 
• Prepare graphics and text for sharing across channels 
• Engage with our followers and encourage interaction 
• Manage and maintain social media channels on a regular basis
• Support charity campaigns, marketing, events and fundraising activities by promoting them on our social media feeds
• Use your creative skills to devise games, competitions and other strategies to engage, grow, and widen our target audiences
• Develop publicity materials and communication techniques for social media to raise awareness of our chronic condition 

You will be working with the charity’s founder and Chair as well as with other trustees and volunteers who will provide an overview of our existing social media content, our brand and how we have approached our social media content to date. 

Experience
We are looking for a volunteer who has experience in:

• Different types of marketing and communications media, including electronic and social media
• Writing and editing marketing content for social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn
• Building strategies to increase social media following and /or build fundraising or awareness campaigns
• Developing a coherent brand voice for social media, from content creation to community interactions
• Using and setting up tools such as Buffer, Canva, Tweetdeck etc
• Creating and executing content calendars to help plan social media activity 

Skills Required

• Excellent written communication skills
• Accuracy and attention to detail 
• Creative writing and design abilities
• Good computer and digital skills
• Enthusiasm for communications and marketing and willingness to learn
• Ability to quickly understand the needs of our team / organisation / users
• Ability to transform small snippets of information into interesting and engaging stories suitable for Twitter, Facebook, Instagram etc.
• Understands the resource constraints of a small charity and is able to work with these
• Open to feedback 
• An interest in helping Burning Nights CRPS Support achieve its aims
• Good organisational skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills, and able to work as part of a team

What Difference You Will Make
You will join the charity during a critical and challenging period and your expert knowledge and experience will be invaluable to our success. You will have a key role in ensuring we can maintain our support services and become a sustainable charity to allow us to fulfil our aims.

Benefits

You would be a part of our small, friendly and forward-thinking charity team, focused on reaching people who may not have heard about the charity or about the condition. You would have a key role in developing a socoal media strategy for a small charity. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference to a rare condition.
You will further develop your communication skills, gain PR and marketing experience and develop your social media skills.

This is a remote volunteering role, volunteering from your own home.

Who are Midland Mencap?

Midland Mencap is a charity which works and campaigns for accessible and inclusive services and a better quality of life for everyone with experience of learning disabilities and additional needs.

Purpose of the role.

To connect people wanting to cycle more with volunteer Bike Buddies who want to help them. We have people from many different backgrounds wanting support with their cycling for many reasons.  

For example:

· Coming back to cycling after time off

· Disability or ill health

· Finding quiet roads and cycle paths around the neighbourhood

· Building up confidence on busy roads

· Sharing experiences of things like cycling at night or what clothes to wear

· Checking bikes together before a ride

Bike Buddies provide crucial support and motivation to help people to participate in inclusive and adapted outdoor cycling. Volunteers support cyclists to achieve their fitness goals and enjoy cycling in our community.

Our Bike Buddies are great ambassadors for cycling, sharing their expertise of local routes and giving others the confidence to get around by bike.

If you feel confident cycling on the road or in a park with someone else, and are wanting to give back to others, this is the role for you.

What would I be doing?

You’ll need to find out what they want to do and where they want to go. Some people want to explore quiet streets locally or plan a longer journey. You may ride to the park or show them local routes – quiet ways, new cycle lanes and off-road paths are popular.

They may want to try out junctions or crossing busy roads – think about how to ride those safely. You may support a person at one of our pre-arranged Parkride cycle meetings and help them to develop the skills and confidence to cycle safely and independently.

What do I need?

This role will require:

· A roadworthy bike and riding equipment.

· Experience of regular cycling

· Some experience of cycle maintenance

·       A cycling competence session with parkride staff

· Friendly, calm, and patient

· A good listener & happy to chat

· Accepting of people who may be different to you

· Willing to learn and act within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· Good time management skills, reliability

· An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.

When and where do you need me?

Either at organised events or 1-2-1 within your local area.

Ideally you can meet once or twice a month for approx. 2 hours.

We have parkride sessions running throughout the week including evenings and weekends.

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

• The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with disabilities and their family carers

• An induction and settling in period

• Any training and development that is needed

• The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

• The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

• Support within your role

• Any out-of-pocket travel expenses

• Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

• Positive wellbeing from doing something great

• Improve career opportunities by adding your volunteer role to a CV

As a collection tin volunteer, you will play a vital role in supporting us to raise our profile and fundraise within your community.

You will look after the Magpas Air Ambulance collection tins within a designated area, replacing full tins and returning them to an agreed location. You can also help us by finding new locations in which to place tins. These collection tins are an important part of how we raise money, raising approximately £20,000 per year.

As a collection tin volunteer, you will be expected to:

• Represent Magpas Air Ambulance in a respectful and friendly manner
• Understand the work of Magpas Air Ambulance, having basic knowledge and enthusiasm for our service
• Wear your Magpas Air Ambulance ID badge, ensuring it's visible at all times
• Travel to your collection tins (on two or four wheels). Where motorised vehicles are used, you must hold a full UK driving license, have a road-worthy vehicle with up-to-date road tax, MOT certificate (where applicable) and fully comprehensive insurance.
• Establish the regularity of required tin collections in your area, keep a log of your activities and feedback to the Supporter Care Officer
• Proactively replace full collection tins as needed and deliver them to an agreed location within one working day of collection
• Place new tins in locations within your area, ensuring they are accurately labelled with the location and organisation's name
• Inform the Supporter Care Officer of any new tins placed or any changes, helping us to ensure records are accurate and kept up to date
• Follow all Magpas Air Ambulance policies and procedures, including reporting any accidents and incidents
• Recognise, respond to, and report any safeguarding issues or concerns

What to expect from us:

• Regular support and advice from our staff team
• Expenses covered in line with our volunteer policy
• On-the-job training specific to your role
• Events where you can meet other volunteers and share ideas
• Impressive skills to add to your CV and a reference if/when you need it
• The opportunity to meet like-minded people
• We are an equal opportunity organisation and welcome volunteers with diverse abilities



As well as joining the Magpas Air Ambulance family, you will make new friends and be an important connection within your community, representing the work of a lifesaving team.

Purpose of the role?

People with a learning disability or additional needs are often isolated and excluded from mainstream leisure and social activities. We believe that EVERYONE has the right to have fun and feel safe.

Our adult citizens want to enjoy social & leisure activities with their friends, and by giving just a little time each month, you can help them do that.

What would I be doing?

You will help us to support a small group of people to enjoy a variety of activities including:

· Going to a local café or browsing the shops

· Going to the pub, restaurant, or cinema

· Activities such ten-pin bowling, visiting a park or attending a local event.

This is a nice, light touch way to make a difference, have fun and gain valuable experience. Expenses are reimbursed.

What do I need?

To be a volunteer you need to be

· Friendly

· Calm and patient

· A good listener

· Accepting of people who may be different to you

· Happy to chat

· Willing to learn and act within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· An enhanced DBS check and references will be required

.       No experience of support work is needed.

When and where do you need me?

· Once or twice a month in the Coventry area

· Days and times to be arranged with the group (may include evenings and weekends)

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

• The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities

and their family carers

• Any training and development that is needed

• The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

• The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

• Support within your role

• Agreed out-of-pocket expenses

• Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

• Positive wellbeing from doing something great

• Improve career opportunities by adding your volunteer role to a CV

As an event volunteer you will play a vital role by raising awareness of our services, assisting with fundraising and engaging with the local community.You will represent Magpas Air Ambulance at a wide range of events indoors and outdoors, come rain or shine. You may be assisting with car parking, meeting and greeting, setting up a stall, selling merchandise, engaging the public and answering questions. Magpas Air Ambulance have a presence at over 150 events each year and need reliable, friendly people like you to help us achieve this. At larger events you will be supported by an event lead and we'll always make sure you are prepared and confident, you don't need to have previous experience, just be willing to get stuck in!

As an event volunteer, you will be expected to:

• Represent Magpas Air Ambulance in a respectful and friendly manner.
• Understand the work of Magpas Air Ambulance to secure basic knowledge and enthusiasm for our service.
• Wear your Magpas Air Ambulance ID badge while volunteering, ensuring it's visible at all times.
• Follow the leadership and guidance of the event lead, staff member or event organiser.
• Assist in all event activities in a flexible and friendly manner.
• Have good communication skills and be able to work with other volunteers and staff as part of a team.
• Process the sale of merchandise and take donations.
• Follow all Magpas Air Ambulance policies and procedures, including reporting any accidents and incidents.
• Recognise, respond to and report any safeguarding issues or concerns.

What you can expect from us:

• Regular support and advice from our staff team.
• Expenses covered in line with our volunteer policy.
• On-the-job training specific to your role.
• Events where you can meet other volunteers and share ideas.
• Impressive skills to add to your CV and a reference if/when you need it.
• The opportunity to meet a network of like-minded people.
• We are an equal opportunity organisation and welcome volunteers with diverse abilities.



As well as joining the Magpas Air Ambulance family, you will make new friends and be an important connection within your community representing the work of a lifesaving team.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Why we need your help

The Marie Curie Dementia Befriending service is provided by trained volunteers who offer one-to-one companionship and support to people with a terminal illness that have dementia and their families. The service would not be able to reach those most in need if it was not for the commitment and hard work of the volunteers delivering the service.

Befriender volunteers provide companionship and emotional support, practical support, short breaks for carers and help with signposting for information and support.

What we need you to do

Your role will include, some of, but not restricted to the following tasks:

• Complete all initial mandatory Dementia Befriender volunteer training, as well as any refresher training whilst you are a Marie Curie volunteer
• Carry out weekly visits with the person(s) you’re supporting, as agreed with the Volunteer Co-ordinator. This could be in a variety of settings, for example in a family’s home, in a care home or out in the community.
• Provide one to one companionship and support. For example - Offering a listening ear and spending time engaging in everyday conversation, activities or hobbies with the person you are supporting. Accompanying them to an appointment, social groups or taking short trips out. Helping with small daily tasks eg making tea or accessing the internet. Allowing carers to have a short break. Signposting to relevant local support services or finding out information as requested.

(This list is only an outline as support will vary according to the needs of those using the service. Dementia Befriender volunteers do not provide nursing or personal care, or offer counselling or advice)

• Driving clients to pre-arranged health or social care (eg to chemotherapy appointments or day therapy at the hospice)
• Follow all mandatory procedures that form part of the Dementia Befriending service. Examples include submitting written report forms, identifying and briefing a lone worker Buddy, and following procedures for lone worker safety.
• Keep your manager informed of any changes to the situation, or any significant happenings in connection to the person you’re supporting and/or their family, either in person or by phone
• Be reliable and committed to regularly spending time with someone and offering support
• Attend group events and training sessions for Marie Curie Dementia Befriender volunteers
• Attend individual sessions with your Volunteer Co-ordinator as required
• Represent the Marie Curie Dementia Befriending service positively to those using the service
• Support with Advanced Care Planning for clients

What skills or experience do you need?

• Commitment and reliability - able to keep appointments and volunteer for approximately 3 hours a week
• Patience, empathy and emotional stability
• An understanding of the importance of confidentiality
• Willing to be flexible to the needs of the individual
• Ability to operate within the boundaries of the role
• A friendly and sensitive approach
• Excellent listening skills and an ability to build a rapport with others Respect for individuals, regardless of their race, gender, culture, religion, disability, sexual orientation and marital status

What we can offer you

• An excellent opportunity to build on your skills in a charity environment
• An induction, training, support and supervision in your role
• Agreed reasonable out-of-pocket expenses

What we ask of you

• To provide two references from non-family members and other relevant documents related to the role
• To keep to all the charity’s policies and guidelines
• To complete an induction and any training related to the role

Marie Curie is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of patients and their families and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  Marie Curie will treat all volunteers fairly and with respect.  We will not discriminate on the basis of disability, ethnicity, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, sex (i.e. gender), sexual orientation, religion or faith, or gender reassignment.  We will not discriminate on the basis of age, unless the responsibilities of a role require us to do so in order to safeguard our volunteers and/or service users.

ABOUT US

Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and  6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left. 

Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work.  We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.

Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.

Alex, The Leukodystrophy Charity (Alex TLC) is a small, independent rare disease charity competing for essential resources within an extremely competitive arena.

Like many other small charities, we have grown organically from an informal support group to the recognised voice for leukodystrophy patients and their families. In order to fulfil our charitable objectives we need to increase and sustain our corporate income levels.

Could you spare a few hours a week to help us?

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for volunteers, preferably with corporate fundraising experience to:

• research the corporate giving landscape and the interests of potential donors

• identify potential corporate donors and partners whose corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals align with our mission and values

• approach local and national businesses in person and over the telephone to inform them of the work of Alex TLC

• keep a record of all approaches

Time Commitment

• This role is flexible and can easily fit round your other commitments. 

Location of Volunteering

• Homebased

ABOUT YOU

• an interest in Alex TLC and the work that we do

• access to a computer/laptop with an internet connection, and a printer

• basic understanding of the complexities of leukodystrophy

• excellent written skills

• excellent organisational and administrative skills

Benefits to you:

• Meeting and working with new people

• The ability to volunteer around your own commitments

• Learning new skills whilst having fun!

• Adding to your CV

• Helping those affected by leukodystrophies

Voluntary role
Responsible to: Chair of Trustees
Base: the Board works remotely 

Main Responsibilities and Duties

• Ensure that SEED and its representatives function within all legal and regulatory frameworks continually striving for best practice in governance.

· Comply with SEED’s Code of Conduct and policies, providing leadership on its value base and organisational behaviour, including safeguarding, human resources and financial management.

· Work alongside fellow Trustees and the Senior Management Team in developing SEED’s strategic direction, promoting and developing this through good governance and clear strategic planning. To evaluate progress made towards achieving the strategic objectives.

• Ensure that SEED operates within its Charitable Objectives and organisational strategy in order that its work remains focussed and makes the greatest impact to those it serves.

• Actively contribute to the development of SEED’s business plan, monitoring and evaluating performance against agreed objectives.

• Prepare for and participate fully in board meetings reviewing all reports coming to these meetings.

• To undertake training when required.

• Use any specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach quick and sound decisions and participate in sub-committees.

· Support the recruitment of senior staff and offer on-going support and monitoring of their work.

· Assist in the recruitment, on-boarding and support of new Trustees when required.

· Act reasonably in decision making and leadership of the organisation and manage risks with a considered, proportionate and balanced approach.

· Maintain sound financial management of SEED’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the organisations’ objects and that assets are protected and managed to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds.

· Act as a counter-signatory on charity cheques and any applications for funds.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of SEED including having appropriate policies and procedures in place. These policies and procedures are reviewed and signed off by the Trustee Board.

· Ensure that SEED has robust safeguarding policy and procedures in place and that safeguarding is embedded across the organisation

· Safeguard the good name and reputation of SEED, acting in the best interest of the charity, staff and beneficiaries at all times.

· Promote the work of SEED externally seeking opportunities that might further the work and visibility of the Charity.

·  Support the Managing Director in leading the Charity, providing advice and practical help and participating in their annual evaluation.

· Maintain absolute confidentiality about all sensitive or confidential information received through carrying out the duties of a Trustee.

· Remain open and accessible to SEED’s staff through occasional communication and site visits.

Accountability:

As a Trustee you are responsible and liable for the governance and functioning of the charity and are accountable in varying degrees to a variety of stakeholders including: service users, members, funders, the Charity Commission, and Companies House.

SEED Trustees should uphold the fiduciary duty required of all charity trustees to act in the best interests of both current and future beneficiaries of the charity, being held personally liable for any breach of that duty.

Support regarding this is given by fellow Trustees, the Managing Director and the Senior Management team.

Required skills & experience:

The successful applicant will:

• Demonstrate a passion for and sound knowledge of development and/or conservation issues facing least developed countries such as Madagascar.

• Demonstrate sound knowledge and keen interest in at least one of SEED’s core areas (community health; sustainable livelihoods; environmental conservation) or in a key functional area (management, finance, marketing).

• Have a reasonable level of understanding of legal, financial, audit and other regulatory requirements of a charity, ideally through experience as a trustee.

• Show commitment to SEED and have sufficient time and willingness to contribute effectively to board proceedings and sub committee work.

• Be able to make quick and sound decisions based on an analysis of information presented to them.

• Have the confidence to both advocate for or challenge ideas and can remain independent of any influence from other organisations or individuals.

• Be able to work effectively as a member of a team and independently.

• Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to SEED’s Code of Conduct and values and be a good ambassador for the organisation at all times.

• Demonstrate the ability, social skills and confidence to give clear guidance and support to other Trustees or members of staff in respect of the philosophy and procedures of SEED in order to protect the reputation of the NGO.

• Be able to work to and advocate for all of SEED’s policies and procedures, working within SEED’s Code of Conduct, safeguarding those that SEED works with and reporting any concerns appropriately.

• Have empathy with those living and working in a developing country with the ability and desire to work with teams from different economic and cultural backgrounds.

• Have excellent listening and verbal communication skills and a flexible and patient attitude.

Do you have a passion for IT or learning new technology? Know your uploads from your downloads or consider yourself a ‘techie’?  Then we are looking for you! But whatever your background, the most important skill you have will be enthusiasm – about being online, technology, willingness to learn and communicate that knowledge to the people Age UK Devon support.

A Digital champion volunteer,  helps older people learn IT skills in a safe and supportive way.

You will help provide support and guidance, to build their digital skills and confidence, enabling them to live a more digitally inclusive and independent life.

The role involves providing personalised support to an older person through one-to-one sessions in their home, or through group coaching in a community setting.

And in return you will gain new skills, be part of your local community, make new friends, and be proud to support Age UK Devon enable older people to get the most out of life!

Age UK Devon will repay any agreed travel expenses

More information about this volunteering role on our website. For an informal chat about this role please call us 

Midland Mencap seeks a passionate volunteer photographer/videographer to capture the energy and joy of our sports, health, and wellbeing community sessions in Birmingham or Walsall.

 Help us showcase the positive impact of our services by documenting participants' stories and achievements.

 Share their smiles, successes, and inspire others to get involved with Midland Mencap!

What would I be doing?

Attend sports, health, and wellbeing sessions: Be present at designated sessions to capture content.

Capture photos and videos: Document activities, participant interactions, and highlight positive moments.

Tell visual stories: Use photo and video to convey the spirit of the sessions and the impact they have on participants.

Potential for interviews: Conduct short interviews with participants to gather testimonials.

Collaborate with the marketing team: Share content for use in promotional materials, social media, and the website.

 What do I need?

 For this role you will need

· Access to own digital camera equipment or modern smartphone

· Able to travel independently in the Birmingham / West Midlands area

· Friendly, calm, and patient

· Accepting of people who may be different to you

· Happy to chat and a good listener

· Willing to learn and act within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· An enhanced DBS check and references will be required

 When and where do you need me?

· 2 - 4 times a month at sessions across Birmingham or Walsall

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

· Gain valuable digital media experience.

· The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities

and their family carers

· Any training and development that is needed

· The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

· Support within your role

· Agreed out-of-pocket expenses

· Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

· Positive wellbeing from doing something great

· Improve career opportunities by adding your volunteer role to a CV

VOLUNTARY GRANT FUNDRAISER

Alex TLC is a trusted and experienced organisation offering support and information for all those affected by leukodystrophy. Leukodystrophies are rare genetic disorders that mainly affect the white matter of the central nervous system, (ie the brain or spinal cord). They affect people of all ages and backgrounds, most notably children. Leukodystrophies are usually degenerative, causing symptoms such as impaired mobility, vision, speech and hearing, incontinence, inability to swallow and loss of cognitive skills. In many cases, this sadly means a reduced or limited lifespan.

Established in 2004, we are recognised by the NHS and global stakeholders as the "go to" organisation for those affected by these devastating conditions in the UK.

Like many other small charities, we have grown organically from an informal support group to the recognised voice for leukodystrophy patients and their families. To fulfil our charitable objectives, we need to increase and sustain our grant income levels.

Could you spare a few hours a week to help us?

ABOUT THE ROLE

Working with our Trusts and Grants Fundraiser, we are looking for volunteers, preferably with experience of grant fundraising, to:

• research potential grant making trusts for relevance to our specific objectives
• send applications using existing templates
• update our systems with details of applications

This is a wonderful opportunity to develop your existing skills within a unique arena, learn about the difficulties facing those with rare disease, and give vital and tangible support to sufferers of leukodystrophy.

We need your help to give hope and support to people affected by leukodystrophy.

ABOUT YOU

Candidates should be able to demonstrate the following:

• an interest in Alex TLC and the work that we do
• basic understanding of the complexities of leukodystrophy
• excellent written skills
• excellent computer skills, particularly Microsoft Word and Excel
• excellent organisational and administrative skills
• access to a laptop/computer, internet and printing facilities
• a basic understanding of (or keen interest in) grant fundraising

This is a remote role with an ideal commitment of at least two hours per week.

Unfortunately, we're unable to consider applications from non-UK residents. 

Alex TLC is committed to promoting diversity.

Would you be interested in supporting vulnerable adults to improve their English skills? We are looking for a volunteer who can support with English learning online. English is a wonderful language, but it is also notoriously difficult to learn.

What you will be doing
Agree a mutually convenient time and frequency for weekly online tutoring sessions for the client.
Determine learning priorities alongside the client.
Prepare simple online lessons to help improve the client’s English (speaking, listening, reading and writing).
Possibly provide “homework” activities to be complete between lessons (if desired by the client
Provide an encouraging and supportive learning environment.
To keep records of conversations and update the client’s support worker on progress of sessions.
Keep an eye out for any safeguarding concerns and report an concerns to volunteer supervisor.
The skills you need
Interest in supporting someone in developing their English skills. Excellent communication skills
Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere
Desirable: hold a TEFL qualification, or equivalent qualification. Flexibility to work around when client may need to cancel short notice. Compassionate and patient
What's in it for you
Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to

 support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications.
Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your Volunteering.

Background

Thyroid UK is a charitable company working primarily within the United Kingdom. Formed in 1998, we became a company limited by guarantee in 2007 and in 2008 we became a registered charity.

The provision of quality information for people with both diagnosed and undiagnosed thyroid disorders is the primary concern of Thyroid UK, and we work effectively in this field through dialogue with NHS departments, networking with other voluntary organisations, and providing services directly to patients.

We are a small charity, with just three permanent employees, plus contract staff, but we have a wide influence, and provide a great deal of support to our beneficiaries, within the UK and abroad.  The charity’s annual income in 2023 was £96,900.54 , with the majority of that income being spent on both running the charity and conducting campaigns and activities to support our beneficiaries. 

The Thyroid UK Board of Trustees is a diverse group of 7 individuals, including the CEO, a Chairperson, Deputy Chair and Treasurer.  Our board members have a collective responsibility. This means that our trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Thyroid UK achieves its objectives. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Thyroid UK has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support the executive team to enable Thyroid UK to grow, thrive and achieve its mission.

Role

We are looking for a trustee who will support and provide advice on Thyroid UK’s purpose, vision, goals and activities. Their duties include:

· Approve operational strategies & policies and monitor/evaluate their implementation.

· Review/approve Thyroid UK’s financial plans, statements and budgets, and evaluate progress. 

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Support Thyroid UK’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

· Hold the chief executive to account for the effective management and delivery of the organisation’s strategic aims and objectives, where appropriate

· Keep abreast of changes in Thyroid UK’s operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of Thyroid UK’s own governance. Attend board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

· Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Thyroid UK’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of Thyroid UK’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

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

Time requirement

The role will require a time commitment of an average of 1 to 2 days per month, with more time required in some months than others. This includes three planned board meetings of approximately 3 hours (two held online and one held in London with the option to join remotely, if needed) and the Thyroid UK AGM.

Term of office

The term of a thyroid UK trustee is two years, following which the Trustees may re-elect the position for a further one or two term(s).

Remuneration

Thyroid UK is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation.  Trustee roles are not remunerated.  However, reasonable expenses for travel can be paid for those not living in London. 

Key Responsibilities 

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.

Personal skills and qualities

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

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

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

· A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

· Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

· Willingness to lead according to our values.

 Apply by sending us your CV and application form with a short covering letter

Background

Thyroid UK is a charitable company working primarily within the United Kingdom. Formed in 1998, we became a company limited by guarantee in 2007 and in 2008 we became a registered charity.

The provision of quality information for people with both diagnosed and undiagnosed thyroid disorders is the primary concern of Thyroid UK, and we work effectively in this field through dialogue with NHS departments, networking with other voluntary organisations, and providing services directly to patients.

We are a small charity, with just three permanent employees, plus contract staff, but we have a wide influence, and provide a great deal of support to our beneficiaries, within the UK and abroad.  The charity’s annual income in 2023 was £96,900.54 with the majority of that income being spent on both running the charity and conducting campaigns and activities to support our beneficiaries. 

The Thyroid UK Board of Trustees is a diverse group of 7 individuals, including the CEO, a Chairperson, Deputy Chair and this Treasurer role.

Role

We are looking to fill the position of treasurer for our Board of Trustees. Working with the CEO and Finance Manager, this role monitors the financial administration of the charity and reports to the Board of Trustees on its state of financial health, in line with best practice and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements, to provide the board with the confidence and knowledge to better make operational and strategic decisions. 

The ideal candidate will have experience of finance or finance management, preferably including some experience in a small company or charity.

Time requirement

The role will require a time commitment of an average of 1 to 2 days per month, with more time required in some months than others. This includes three planned board meetings of approximately 3 hours (two held online and one held in London with the option to join remotely, if needed) and the Thyroid UK AGM. 

The Treasurer should be available to support the CEO, Chair and fellow trustees between board meetings, including taking responsibility to deal with issues which may arise, and have one-to-one meetings with the CEO and Finance Manager before board meetings. 

Term of office

The Treasurer’s term is two years, following which the trustees may re-elect the position for a further one or two term(s).

Remuneration

Thyroid UK is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation.  Trustee roles are not remunerated.  However, reasonable expenses for travel can be paid for those not living in London. 

Key Responsibilities 

· Liaise with CEO and Trustees to ensure the financial viability of the organisation’s strategy, advising on the financial implications of Thyroid UK’s strategic plan

· Present Thyroid UK’s financial position and broader context at Trustee meetings, and oversee the production of an annual budget.

· Ensure that the Board of Trustees is aware of its financial duties and responsibilities and the need to comply with all legislation, and take a lead in interpreting financial data to fellow board members.

· Provide oversight and guidance where necessary of accounts prepared for funders and relevant statutory bodies.

· Oversee the appointment of an independent examiner of the accounts and review the appointment on a regular basis.

· Act as counter signatory on charity cheques and some applications to funders, approve payments on banking systems, and spending approval in accordance with financial management processes.

· Work in partnership with the CEO/Finance Manager in executing their responsibilities and achieving their financial goals.

· Ensure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external financial advisors are reviewed on a regular basis.

Person Specification

In addition to fulfilling the experiences, skills and attributes of a trustee, a treasurer must also have:

1. Knowledge and experience of accounting and audit practices in the UK as they apply to companies and charities

2. Be able to interrogate and interpret financial statements

3. Communicate financial information in a meaningful and understandable way to the Board

4. Strong working knowledge of any accounting software

5. Strong attention to detail

Submit your interest by sending us the completed application form, your CV and a short cover letter.