Professional volunteering opportunity volunteer roles in greater london

Fundraisers wanted to support East London Waterworks Park in developing and implementing our fundraising strategy.

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

We are looking for fundraisers to contribute to our community-led fundraising strategy, to develop relationships with funders and to write funding applications. 

You would join our fundraising circle, which coordinates our fundraising efforts. It is currently exploring grant opportunities and developing relationships with businesses and other funders. We meet online on Google Meet and volunteers complete agreed tasks remotely. 

If you have experience in writing grants and funding applications, corporate fundraising, philanthropy, or any other aspect of fundraising, it would be great to hear from you. 

We are keen fundraisers but we are lacking professional expertise and experience and we would love your help and input. We would welcome one-off advice on the phone or in person, as well as longer term volunteers. 

We would also love to hear from potential volunteers without experience but with transferable skills.

East London Waterworks Park is an exciting and ambitious project. Without funding we won’t be able to make it happen, so you will be directly contributing to the creation of a new biodiverse community-owned park with free access natural swimming ponds.

Letter from Imelda Redmond, our chair of trustees

The current Board is a welcoming, collegiate and energetic group, working hard to make a positive impact on the lives of older people in Tower Hamlets, Newham and Hackney. I joined the organisation a year ago as chair and am enjoying steering the organisation through an exciting period of transformation as we implement our new, and ambitious, five year strategy. AUKEL has sound finances and a strong reputation for its service delivery (Hospital to Home service, community services, digital inclusion and Information and Advice). From this strong base, the organisation has an ambition to amplify the voices of older people within our communities and to create a more collaborative culture which both improves the connectedness of our services and also strengthens our relationships with local voluntary, statutory, community and faith groups. We are looking for someone with the time, passion and expertise we need to work collegiately with trustee colleagues to lead the organisation through this next exciting phase.

Yours,

Imelda Redmond

AUKEL Chair of trustees

About us Age

UK East London (AUKEL) is a local independent charity, which is part of the national Age UK network. We work across Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Newham to deliver services which support older people to live healthier, happier and more fulfilled lives.

Our work

Each year we support around 20,000 older East Londoners by providing flexible practical and emotional support in homes, hospitals and in the community.

Our boroughs have the country’s highest pensioner poverty in the country, further exacerbated by the current cost of living crisis.

How we help

1. We tackle poverty

Each year our advice service supports over 2,000 older people to claim £3.2million in welfare benefits, grants and relief entitlements. During the cost-of-living crisis we distributed £42,000 worth of emergency vouchers for food, helping older people ensure there was food in the fridge.

2. We alleviate loneliness

According to a national model, Tower Hamlets has the highest rates of loneliness in London and in England. Our East End Friends initiative teams housebound older people who’d like a bit more company with a volunteer to visit them at home. 92% of older people said they felt less isolated and lonely and 100% of volunteers would recommend the scheme.

3. We improve health.

Many older people in our boroughs have very poor health. For example, at age 65, women can expect just six more years of good health, which is the lowest in London and almost the lowest in England. This reduces their quality of life and can make it harder to remain independent. As well as increasing income and addressing loneliness (both determinants of health) we offer yoga, walking, and chair-based exercise groups at our community centre in Bow. 87% of participants said they are more independent as a result.

4. We increase independence.

Many older people live alone and struggle to manage around the home. Our home from hospital service supports 3,000 older people to return to a safe and warm home. Just 6% are readmitted to hospital within 28 days compared to 15.3% in areas where there aren’t these services.

The Team

We have an established and talented Senior Management Team, a committed staff team and an extraordinary group of volunteers. Two years ago, the board recruited a new Chief Executive. She is ambitious for the charity, comes with a great track-record of charity leadership, and has worked hard with trustees to develop our new organisational strategy.

Who we are looking for

We want our trustees to understand the community we serve and are therefore specifically looking for applicants who live in and/or have strong connections with Hackney, Tower Hamlets or Newham. Additionally, we are determined to increase the diversity of the current Board in line with our organisational EDI Objectives. For this reason, we are actively seeking candidates from the Global Majority (all non-white ethnic groups, including Black, Asian, and other groups previously labelled as "ethnic minorities" or ‘BAME’).

Previous experience in the voluntary sector, adult social care, NHS, or similar relevant experience to the work of AUKEL would be helpful. As would communications/marketing experience. However, this is potentially a developmental role where you will gain knowledge and experience of charity governance – so the most important thing is your commitment to our organisational aims and your local connection.

You must want to improve the lives of older people across East London and understand the impact disadvantage and discrimination has on the life chances of our local population. You will be curious, collaborative and ambitious and able to commit to an average of one-to two days a quarter (most meetings are in the evenings).

If you're new to being a trustee, we can offer additional training and pair you with a fellow trustee as a ‘buddy’ to help guide you. They’ll be there to walk you through trustee materials, answer any questions, and provide support along the way.

Full role description can be found in appendix 1

What I get out of being on the AUKEL Board

'I continue to be impressed with the extent of the help AUKEL provides in our communities. The need for the service is increasing as the cost-of-living crisis deepens. I see the Trustee role as an enabling role. I enjoy rolling up my sleeves alongside my fellow trustees to tackle some challenging issues with our combined skill sets. I particularly enjoy working on the new People sub-committee and I can sense a renewed enthusiasm for finding ways to optimise the Trustee contribution.' (Teresa, a current trustee)

New Trustees will complete an induction to the organisation and the Board. This will include site visits and meetings with the CEO, Senior Management Team, Chair and Board members. During your induction you’ll have the opportunity to really understand our services and get to know our team. You’ll be able to ask any questions you want and visit any service you wish!

Time commitment

The full Board meets quarterly on Wednesdays from 6.00 – 8.00pm in our Hackney centre.

We hope that all our trustees additionally sit on a sub-committee which reflects their interests and/or expertise. All the Committees meet quarterly the Finance Committee meets on Thursdays from 6.00 – 8.00pm usually face to face in Bethnal Green, the People Committee 5 meets quarterly on Mondays from 6.00-7.30pm online, and the Service Development Committee usually meets from 6.00-7.30pm on Thursdays online.

Travel expenses can be reimbursed.

Board members may be asked to commit additional time to support staff recruitment, review tenders and share expertise.

The agenda and papers for each meeting are usually emailed to Trustees a week in advance.

How to apply

If you are interested in being considered for this role please submit your CV/LinkedIn profile with a covering letter explaining why you wish to join the charity and the skills/experience you will bring to the Board.Please visit our website for the recruitment email address.

Potential candidates are welcome to have an informal conversation about the role. Please visit our website for the recruitment email address.

Closing date is the 30th of June.

Appendix 1

Trustee role description

The Board is responsible for the smooth-running of the organisation and supporting the Chief Executive. You will be supporting our 70+ members of staff and part of our 80+ strong volunteer team. You will also have the opportunity to learn about how to tackle the challenges that our beneficiaries face, and how to deliver appropriate co-produced services that enrich older people’s lives and enhance the whole community of East London.

Main tasks

• Contribute to Board meetings, helping to give firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting policy and targets and evaluating performance.
• Make decisions for the benefit of Age UK East London, exercising independent judgement and declaring any interests, exercising reasonable skill, care and diligence in carrying out activities.
• Be familiar with the rules that govern Age UK East London (Articles of Association) and make sure we follow those, Charity Law, Company Law and all other relevant legislation and regulations.
• Ensure the organisation’s financial stability, overseeing the setting of the budget and monitoring variance against the budget (the Board also has a Finance Sub-Committee to help oversee this).
• Ensure that we use our resources in line with our Articles and the requirements of funders, and that our accounts are a ‘fair and true’ representation of our finances.
• Safeguard the values of Age UK East London a maintain positive reputation for the organisation and its work.

Person specification

We’re looking for someone who:

• Cares about older people and wants to make a positive difference in their lives.
• Is open-minded, fair, and respectful, and values the opinions and experiences of others.
• Understands equity, diversity, and inclusion and its impact on older people and organizational practices
• Is committed to the charity’s mission, values, and social impact.
• Is reliable, committed and can dedicate some time to attending meetings and getting involved in the charity’s work.
• Is willing to learn about the charity’s work, the role of a trustee, and the challenges older people face.
• Can work well with others as part of a team, sharing ideas and supporting the charity’s goals.

It would be helpful (but not essential) if you:

• Have personal or professional experience with older people, or an understanding of the issues they face.
• Have lived experience or a connection to the charity’s mission.

Are you passionate about creating a culture of welcome for refugees in the UK? Do you have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation? This could be the perfect role for you! 

STAR is a dynamic and exciting national charity which makes a huge impact on a small budget. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about creating a culture of welcome in the UK for refugees ,who believes in the power of young people as changemakers and who wants to empower refugees to reach higher education to join our board of trustees. 

We are in particular looking for applicants who: 

• Have lived experience 
• Have HR experience 
• Have campaigns experience, in particular hybrid campaigning.
• Have charitable fundraising experience. 

 Applications from persons with lived refugee experience are highly encouraged. 

Role Description

To provide strategic oversight of:

• STAR’s compliance with its Articles of Association, policies, and law; 
• STAR’s compliance with all funding conditions and contracts;
• Whether STAR is best using its resources to meet its objectives; 
• The effective and efficient administration of STAR;
• Monitoring and reporting of financial information; 
• STAR’s funding and expenditure situation; and
• Implementation of STAR’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Safeguarding Policy in employment and service delivery.

Also to:

• Contribute actively to STAR by giving strategic direction and evaluating performance against targets
• Attend and prepare for board meetings
• Appoint board members and officers via the procedures in this policy
• Approve accounts
• Ensure that STAR and the board safeguard STAR’s values and reputation
• Provide any other assistance the board or STAR may require, as appropriate, particularly utilising any specialist skills or experience they may have.

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Experience of governance of a charity or public sector organisation
• A commitment to STAR’s values
• An awareness of issues affecting both STAR and the wider refugee sector, the ever shifting landscape of refugee policy and media coverage, or a willingness to learn and stay abreast of these current topics and new developments. 
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to prepare for and attend regular STAR meetings for at least 2 years
• Integrity and good independent judgement
• Strategic vision and an ability to stay focused on strategic objectives
• Willingness to take part in STAR discussions, contribute constructively and listen to others
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and liabilities of trustees of a charitable company
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• A commitment to the principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, as well as an understanding and acceptance of the Equal Opportunities Policy
• Willingness to undertake training required to allow them to fulfil their duties.

Desirable 

Five years experience in one or more of:

• Working with people seeking asylum and refugees;
• Other work with the asylum/refugee/migrant sector;
• Charitable fundraising;
• Voluntary sector issues, such as trends for charities and partnership/network formation;
• Organisational development, growth or change;
• Human resources;
• Financial management/accountancy;
• IT;
• Negotiations;
• Marketing and public relations;
• Lobbying, advocacy and campaigning regarding social justice or social policy;
• Management and administration of a charity, for example as a director or trustee;
• Campaigning;
• Social Media/ Communications 

About Student Action for Refugees

STAR (Student Action for Refugees) is the national network of students building a society where refugees and asylum seekers are welcomed and can thrive. 

Set up by students at Nottingham University in 1994, STAR is creating a more understanding, just and welcoming society by: 

• empowering young people to be changemakers; 
• providing practical support and connecting local communities through volunteering and student volunteer led community projects; 
• challenging the structural barriers that refugees and asylum seekers face when seeking protection and building new lives in the UK; 
• Sharing trusted information about asylum and the lived experience of refugees to combat misinformation, hostile narratives and instead spread compassion and humanisation 

We have a small staff team who train and support the network and lead on national campaign and advocacy work, with expertise in improving access to higher education for forced migrants.

Here are just some of our highlights from last year:

• 37  STAR university student society groups, across 28  towns and cities, run by 222 STAR student leaders. 
• 262 events were organised by STAR groups to educate, campaign, and fundraise for a more welcoming UK, from art exhibitions to cookery classes and film nights.
• 1,280 refugees and people seeking asylum were supported by 413 volunteers  through 28 community projects and 25 one off volunteering events. 
• 100s of students mobilised to support calls for better treatment of refugees in the UK including standing against detention, for a fairer plan for refugees and to lift the ban on work.
• 88 UK universities now offer sanctuary scholarships for refugee students. The STAR staff team was involved in the development of many of these new scholarships and the improvement of  existing scholarships. We also ran workshops for hundreds of  university staff. 
• 15 STAR groups campaigned for Equal Access at their institutions and 4 won!
• 65 aspiring refugee students were supported by our mentoring project and we provided signposting and advice about accessing HE to over 470 people.

If you would like an informal chat before applying, please get in touch.

Deadline for applications: 11th July 2025

Interviews: Rolling

Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? Trustees manage the affairs of our local RSPCA Branch to promote and provide animal welfare within the branch area. 

We are the Surrey East Branch of the RSPCA, and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. 

Main activities: 

• To be familiar with and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA. 

• To be familiar with our branch rules and follow them at all times. 

• To work with your fellow trustees and branch officers to jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of our branch and the RSPCA. 

• To ensure the branch meets all the minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS). Where they are not met, work with national RSPCA staff to meet the standard as soon as practicable. 

• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch support specialist (BSS), to write, adopt, monitor and review a branch development plan setting out the short and long-term aims of our branch. 

• To actively participate in branch committee meetings and attend the branch annual general meeting, and regional conference. 

• To be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives. 

• To attend the trustee training course. 

• To actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers. 

• To welcome new trustees and volunteers to the branch. 

About the RSPCA

We’re proud to be the oldest welfare charity in existence

• We were the first to introduce a law to protect animals and we work hard to ensure that all animals can live a life free from pain and suffering. 

• Through our campaigns we raise standards of care and awareness of issues for the animals who have no voice. We push for laws to be changed, improving the welfare of animals on farms, in research labs, in the wild, in paddocks or in our homes. 

• Through investigations and prosecutions, we stand up to those who deliberately harm animals to send out a clear message - we will not tolerate animal abuse. 

• Our highly trained officers tackle neglect and cruelty at every level and are working hard to stamp out large-scale serious, organised and commercial animal cruelty. 

• We believe every animal has the right to be counted as an individual. Animals can rely on us to rescue them when they need us most. To rehabilitate them wherever possible, provide them with the very best veterinary care and to find them new homes, either through rehoming or release.

What are we looking for? 

• Most people aged 18 or over are eligible to become a trustee. You will need to become a member of the RSPCA. Good interpersonal skills are important. You do not need to be an expert, although commitment, common sense and the ability to be objective is vital. 

• Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, and awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful, but not essential. 

• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and that they accept the post. 

• In addition to our standard declaration of willingness, trustees also need to complete a declaration from the Charity Commission and read their guidance for individuals on who can’t be a trustee or senior manager of a charity. 

What can we offer you? 

• It’s a great way to meet like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for animal welfare. 

• You will have the opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals. 

• New RSPCA trustees are provided with a document “Trustees handbook” and asked to attend a training course which provides information and guidance about a trustee’s role and responsibilities. 

• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch. 

• Volunteer at the heart of the local community. 

The Guildford Institute is looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated individual to serve as Chair of its Board of Trustees. This important role offers the opportunity to shape the future of a charity that has been a pivotal part of the community for over 130 years.

Based in our beautiful Grade II listed building since 1892, we provide the local community with accessible cultural education and opportunities to build meaningful connections with others.

We’re seeking a distinguished leader with the following qualities: 

• Leadership & Governance

• Passion for the Arts, Education & Community

• Strategic Thinking

• Financial Acumen

• Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion 

Play a vital role in guiding The Guildford Institute to continue to grow, secure its longevity and thrive.

Additional Documents:

Please read our Candidate Brief to find out more about us and the role of the Chair.

About Us

Maytree addresses a critical gap in suicide prevention, focusing on those in acute, pre-suicidal states where support from helplines, GPs, therapists or charitable organisations fails. For individuals overwhelmed by suicidal intent, emergency services like A&E often exacerbate fear and shame, leaving them with few options to safely disclose their distress.

Maytree’s vision is to fill the gap, by offering compassionate care and continuous containment in a collaborative community.  A sanctuary for respite: calm, safe, warm, friendly, and nurturing. Non-medical, non-judgemental. A place and a time to talk. One that rekindles hope and self-esteem, new insights, restores identity, belonging, and relationship networks from the meltdown of crisis.

Its model turns a high-risk crisis into one of lower risk, one that is manageable. And with proven good outcomes, often a transformative experience.

Background to the role

Maytree closed its doors in March 2023 following management and governance issues. Founder Michael Knight, who had previously stepped away, returned to take over the operations alongside a group of trustees appointed by him and his wife Judith. 

Maytree re-opened in April 2025 with a new board of trustees, who have appointed an operations team, defined the model and service matrix, and overseen the renovation of the house. The husband-wife pair, serving as co-chief executives, are preparing to transition out of their roles. In addition to recruiting a new Chief Executive Officer and Chair, adding a trustee with some financial experience is important for maintaining the charity's short-term stability and guiding its strategic direction.

Main Responsibilities

• Compliance with Company’s Act and Charity Commission responsibilities.
• Developing and agreeing strategy and plans as put forward by CEO/Chair.
• The appointment and accountability/performance/remuneration of executive leadership.
• Overseeing and ensuring that appropriate policies are in place for management of all aspects of risk.
• Chair a Board Sub-Committee on Finance to approve Accounts and liaise with the auditors as appropriate.
• Oversee that financial controls and systems are fit for purpose, advise on presentation to Trustees of annual Accounts and ensure that timely and appropriate budgets, forecasts, management and financial accounts are provided to Trustees.
• Accepting nomination as a signature on the charity’s bank mandates.
• Overseeing/advising on banking arrangements and best deployment of cash reserves
• Monitor cash reserves and ensure they are properly managed and placed where they can get the best possible return.

Person Specification

• Experience with financial reporting, whether in a private or charity sector context. You do not have to be a chartered accountant.
• Comfortable leading meetings about finance issues.
• Able to think strategically and innovatively about the future direction of Maytree.
• Passionately committed to mental health provision and suicide prevention.
• Fully committed to the charity’s ‘no blame’ culture, approaching problem solving in a supportive, constructive and transparent way.
• Fully committed to Maytree’s values: trust, respect, openness, empathy, equity, non-judgement and inclusiveness.

Diversity and inclusion 

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustments so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting Maytree in the recruitment of these roles. 

Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc. format, which should indicate why you are interested in applying for the particular role and how you meet the selection criteria.

The closing date for applications is Monday 23rd June and our candidate assessment schedule is as follows:

• EP screening interviews and informal conversations carried out through the recruitment process with final interviews taking place by Friday 4th July.
• Formal interviews with the Maytree board in the week commencing 7th July.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you. 

African Development Choices (ADC) is a UK-based Social Enterprise on a mission to reduce poverty by empowering communities to make more informed choices in the management of public resources.

ADC’s purpose is to enable communities to independently meet their needs for essential services, such as clean water and safe sanitation and improve lives in Africa.

At ADC we encourage a working culture of seeking and giving input, showing, and taking initiative and commitment to the organisation and its purpose.

Main Purpose of Job: You will be the main point of contact for the HR General Team, handling day-to-day management of volunteers, communications, and policy administration. Additionally, you'll support Talent Acquisition by screening CVs, scheduling interviews, and managing onboarding. This is a great opportunity to contribute to new HR initiatives and strategies.

Department: HR General

Division: People & Culture

Position Reports to: Chief People Officer

Position is Responsible for: No direct reports

Main Duties & Objectives
 

Your main responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
 

• Assist with the Talent Acquisition process by screening CVs, coordinating interviews, and managing the onboarding of new hires.

• Support the HR team with administrative tasks related to recruitment and employee onboarding.

• Assist in the development and implementation of human resources policies, systems, and processes.

• Undertake tasks around performance management.

• Gather and analyse data with useful HR metrics to develop effective action plans (i.e., employee turnover rates, volunteer satisfaction, retention rate per manager, etc.)

• Create strong relationships across the organisation and develop a network of contacts throughout your area and understand who the key individuals are.

• Update and maintain volunteer records when necessary.

• Provide administrative support to the Talent Acquisition team by screening CV’s and setting up interviews.

• Working with leadership teams on developing, organising, and implementing design models.

• Attend the HR General Team weekly meeting.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

Essential

• Previous administrative experience in Talent Acquisition

• Proven experience as an HR Generalist or HRBP and be able to demonstrate your complete understanding of the position.

• Knowledge of HR processes and HRIS systems and HR best practises.

• Able to assist on developing action plans for the implementation of new HRIS systems, policies, HR strategies, etc.

• Excellent communication and people skills.

• Experience in working closely with business leaders and line managers to build their people capability.

• Able to deliver a high standard of work in a timely manner, within defined processes and with minimal supervision.

• The ability to keep sensitive information confidential.

• Available to volunteer at least 7-10 hours a week 

• Ability to actively take initiative and help set things up in a start-up environment.

• Ability to actively seek and give input in a collaborative team environment.

• A committed team player with good communication skills.

Desirable

• Hold a qualification related to HR.

What ADC Offers You

This is a volunteer, remote and unpaid position with the following benefits:

• Professional learning and career development opportunities.

• An opportunity to build on your work experience within your profession.

• An opportunity to be part of a diverse team representing different parts of the world, that is changing lives in Africa.

• An opportunity to help shape a start-up social enterprise.

• We will provide work reference for you.

This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, with its principal accountabilities, incorporating a note of the skills, knowledge and experience required for a satisfactory level of performance. This is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of all aspects of the duties involved.

Here at African Development Choices, we celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our teams are made up of people from all over the world and we welcome all applications. If you are disabled or have a long-term health condition, and you require any reasonable adjustments for your application with us, please let us know by contacting recruitmentatafricandevelopmentchoicesdotorg.

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

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

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro

Preferred Skills:

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

Optional Skills:

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

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

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

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

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.

A bit about this role

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help our feline friends. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances in Mid-Sussex RH15, RH16, RH17, BN6, BN45.
• Providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

A bit more information about this role and the team

• This is a flexible role. The amount of time you offer can work to your availability and convenience.
• There may be opportunities for your activities to be fully remote and/or admin based if you'd prefer.
• You will need your own transport if you wish to attend events, ideally a car or van since items, stock and equipment will usually be needed.
• We ask that you complete training to support you in your role. This can be completed online if you have access to the internet and the necessary device (computer/laptop/tablet etc). Support can be offered or paper versions of much of the training if needed.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds through events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated group of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Good organisational skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• The ability to prioritise and delegate
• An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly
• Knowledge of your local community

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Volunteer Safeguarding Lead  for Watford and Three Rivers Refugee Partnership (WTRRP)

Job summary:  The Safeguarding Lead will play a crucial role in developing, implementing, and overseeing safeguarding policies and procedures. This individual will work closely with staff, volunteers, and the Committee to promote a safe environment and handle any safeguarding concerns effectively.

WTRRP is a registered charity (England, reg no 1162226) that exists to support people in the Watford Borough and Three Rivers District of West Hertfordshire, who do not yet have status in the UK, or who have specific needs related to their application process or welfare. Currently WTRRP has around 160 live cases (defined as a family unit or individual currently in need of our help).

WTRRP is run by a Committee, which includes several Trustees. The Committee meets typically every 2 months and also for an Annual General Meeting, but it also provides day-to-day support to our staff members (Casework Coordinator and part-time Office Manager) and to our ~80 volunteers.

The main roles of the charity are to run a drop-in session every Tuesday (at St Mary’s Church in central Watford), a social hub at the same time, and to provide financial and other assistance to its clients for their application process for leave to remain in the UK.

Commitment: [ approximately 5 hours per week]

Key Responsibilities:

Policy Development: Develop and regularly review safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure they are up-to-date and compliant with legal and best practice standards.

Training: Organize safeguarding training sessions for staff and volunteers and review exisiting training.

Support: Provide guidance and support to staff and volunteers on safeguarding matters, including responding to concerns and allegations.

Monitoring: Monitor the implementation of safeguarding policies and practices across the organization.

Reporting: Maintain accurate records of safeguarding concerns and incidents, and ensure timely reporting to relevant authorities and stakeholders.

Review: Conduct regular reviews of safeguarding practices and make recommendations for improvements.

Key Requirements:

Experience: Prior experience in safeguarding, child protection, or a related field is preferred. Experience in a leadership or advisory role is advantageous.

Knowledge: Strong understanding of safeguarding legislation and best practices. Knowledge of working with vulnerable individuals is essential.

Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

Commitment: A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.  The role will require approximately 5 hours per week.

Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in safeguarding, child protection, or related areas are desirable. Training in safeguarding is a plus.

What We Offer:

Impact: The opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of those we support.

Support: NCVO safeguarding Lead training and support from the Committee.

Development: Networking with other safeguarding professionals.

Flexibility: The role is flexible and can be adapted to fit around your other commitments.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about safeguarding and want to contribute to our mission, please contact us for an intial discussion about the role or application form. Please visit our website for more information about the Partnership.

About us

At PBE we use economics to improve lives. Through analytical expertise and our close connection with the social sector, we help charities, funders, firms and policymakers tackle the causes and consequences of low wellbeing.

Right now, more than 3 million adults in the UK are living in wellbeing poverty. We want to change that. 

Our team of analysts, researchers and economists work on a wide range of issues related to low wellbeing, including mental health, education, employment, financial security, poverty, disability, inequality, volunteering and civil society. Our current focus areas are loneliness, children and young people’s mental health and private rental housing. We have changed national government policies on charitable giving, data about charities and volunteering, and the relationship between civil servants and charities. Our research and insights helped secure over £1 billion of government funding for children’s services, numeracy education and charities struggling with the cost of living. The government has committed an additional £250 million for children’s social care in 2025-26, partially due to our research into the state of children’s services funding.

We were founded in 2009 by Andy Haldane, former Chief Economist of the Bank of England, and Martin Brookes, former economist at the Bank of England and Goldman Sachs. Our chair is Tera Allas, former Chief Economist at McKinsey, and we are supported by Lord Gus O’Donnell, former Cabinet Secretary, as our Honorary President.

Our three-year strategy provides the most explicit statement yet of our desire to better understand and tackle low wellbeing. It sets out ambitious plans for achieving more impact – by expanding what we already do so successfully to new audiences and partners. It also pledges to achieve deeper impact – by growing our expertise and influence. And it emphasises our commitment to better working – by investing in the development of our people and processes. 

CEO Matt Whittaker leads our executive team including a Director of Operations and Finance, a Director of Development, a Director of Policy and Communications, a Director of Services, and a Chief Economist. The executive is supported by a team of over 20 staff.

About the role

Post type: Voluntary position

We are seeking one or two trustees with fundraising experience. You will have the drive and commitment to support our strategic development and help build our network, reach, and funding base. You will work collaboratively, representing, reflecting and seeking a diverse range of opinions. You should be committed to our vision and values and be able to communicate this enthusiasm to others.

Key responsibilities

Specific responsibilities:

 Fundraising

• Ensure, via membership of main Board, that PBE has an effective and sustainable fundraising strategy to underpin its business plan and future ambitions.
• Be a member of the Development Committee, which provides more specialist advice and guidance to the Director of Development and team.
• Be a champion for fundraising, increasing knowledge, confidence and enthusiasm across the full set of trustees and other supporters (e.g., patrons).
• Leverage personal and professional networks to identify and introduce potential funders to PBE and play an active role in helping convert these relationships into committed long-term supporters.

Board responsibilities:

Governance

• Ensure PBE has a clear vision and strategic direction and that we are focused on carrying out our purpose for public benefit.
• Delegate authority to the CEO within the terms of the strategic plan and approve key performance indicators.
• Appoint and remove the CEO and monitor, support and hold him to account for the delegated functions.

Compliance

• Ensure that we comply with our governing documents, legal and regulatory requirements and take final responsibility (as per the Memorandum of Association) for PBE.

Judgement

• Make balanced, informed decisions, be prepared to question and challenge when necessary, and help maintain a balanced, constructive relationship between the board and the executive.

Resource oversight

• Ensure resources are deployed effectively.
• Ensure that plans and budgets are in keeping with the aims of the organisation.
• Approve budgets to ensure PBE continues to manage cash flows and reserves prudently.

Accountability

• Ensure that our governance is of the highest possible standard, act with all due care and skill and manage all risks – financial, reputational and others – efficiently and effectively.

Engagement

• Monitor the operating environment in which PBE works, address emerging issues that may impact on our strategy, planning or reputation with key stakeholders; ensure that we retain our ethos, values and standards and offer advice to the CEO and board on areas of personal experience and expertise.

About you

We are looking for exceptional trustees to join the board. Applications are particularly welcomed from those with experience in fundraising for think tank or research-based organisations, and also from those with established philanthropic networks.

We are committed to improving the diversity of our board and therefore are especially keen to encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

Ideal characteristics

You should demonstrate knowledge and experience of the following:

• The vision and values of PBE
• Successful fundraising within the charitable and/or commercial sectors
• Using personal and professional networks that are relevant to PBE’s work
• Being an effective Board member
• Good communication and interpersonal skills

Find out more

• Read our latest Annual Report
• Visit our website

PBE is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We encourage applications from all parts of the community, and we give all applicants and employees fair and equal treatment, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or nationality. We also guarantee an invitation to interview for all applicants with disabilities who show evidence that they can meet the role’s ideal criteria.

For details of our applicant’s privacy policy, please visit our website

Background

First Step is a Charity based in the London Borough of Havering, working with families of children with special needs and/or disabilities. For more than 35 years, we have supported in excess of 1,500 families and their children.

Families are referred or self-refer to us at a moment of crisis or uncertainty, normally pre-diagnosis, where they have concerns about their child.  We provide a range of family-centric services tailored to each family’s and child’s needs.

During our history we’ve had highs and lows, including overcoming a challenging time following the withdrawal of funding from the Local Authority in 2017 as part of their own austerity cuts.  Despite this, we’ve managed to sustain the charity through increased fundraising.

Our current Board has more than 80 years of experience, and over the next couple of years we’re looking to add some new and dynamic Trustees to strengthen the team and bring refreshed critical and creative thinking to our Charity.

The Chair of Trustees Role

Our Chair is looking to stand down after 10 fulfilling years, and we are looking for a new Chair to work with our Board and CEO to further strengthen our organisation long into the future.  

The new Chair should be ambitious for our Charity and have the vision and energy to help it extend its reach and impact, along with being an experienced leader who has empathy for our families, and lives our values.

They will need to have the ability to lead from the front in a collaborative style that builds consensus amongst the board, so we can meet the challenges ahead.

First Step are passionate about creating a diverse workforce and positively encourage applications from under-represented communities.

The Manor House Centre for Psychotherapy and Counselling (MHCPC) is an established training centre and clinical service. At a time when mental health provisions have been in increased demand, we have experienced exponential growth of our services and wish to develop these further.

We are ambitious to develop and raise our profile and influence to offer mental health support to those that need it most in our borough. The MHCPC are uniquely positioned to offer low-cost open-ended therapy to those who can least afford it.

The MHCPC provide long-term psychodynamic counselling rather than CBT, for those patients in the community for whom the former is more suitable. We provide a service which reduces the impact on NHS mental health provisions and thus supports patients who would otherwise face joining an unrealistically long waiting list for short-term work.

The MHCPC sets high training and clinical standards: our training programme is accredited by both the British Association for Psychotherapy and Counselling (BACP) and the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). 

What are we looking for?

The MHCPC seek to appoint an enthusiastic and engaging Chair, with a passion for mental health and supporting the local community.

The role of the Chair is to provide leadership and direction to the Board of Trustees. The Chair’s aim is to enable the board to fulfil their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation.

The Chair will ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document and any other relevant legislation or regulations and to make sure that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its constitution.

The Chair's role is to work in partnership with the Board of Management, helping them achieve their vision for the organisation.

Personal Qualities

• Demonstrate a strong and visible passion and commitment to the charity, its strategic objectives and cause
• Personal gravitas to lead an organisation
• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in an ambassadorial role
• Demonstrate tact and diplomacy, with the ability to listen and engage effectively
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of the charity
• Ability to foster and promote a collaborative team environment
• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

Experience

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
• Successful track record of achievement through their career
• Experience of charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees
• Experience of external representation, delivering presentations and managing stakeholders
• Significant experience of chairing meetings and events
• Experience of recruiting Trustees

Knowledge and skills

• Broad knowledge and understanding of the charity sector and current issues affecting it
• Strong leadership skills, ability to motivate staff and volunteers and bring people together
• Financial management expertise and a broad understanding of charity finance issues
• Good understanding of charity governance issues

What difference will you make?

The MHCPC has an active Board of Management responsible for the day to day running of the organisation. The Chair's role is to work in partnership with the Board of Management and, with the support of the Board of Trustees, helping them achieve their vision for the organisation.

We are seeking to appoint a dynamic and passionate Chair of the Board of Trustees to provide leadership to the Board and to ensure that the organisation delivers its charitable purpose in close cooperation with the Board of Management.

A Chair is sought who has a strong empathy with the organisation’s objectives and has some understanding of, or interest in, talking therapies and mental health. We are looking to appoint a Chair who can provide strategic insight and expertise to the Board deliberations and support our growth and development at an exciting time for the organisation as we strategically plan how to expand our provision of affordable therapy.

Our client the Coroners’ Court Support Service is currently recruiting for two Trustees to join its board. is an independent voluntary organisation whose trained volunteers offer emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending an Inquest at a Coroner’s Court.  They are a charity who do not receive central funding, and rely on grants and donations to be able to undertake their work. 

The CCSS is now looking to appoint two new Trustees onto it’s board:

Public Relations /Media/Communications/Marketing Trustee – an experienced Marketing & Communications professional who will contribute to strategic discussions and decisions, with a particular focus on all marketing and communications aspects. You will be an expert in marketing or PR/Communications along with sector knowledge in press/media management.

Legal Trustee - A legal expert who can help guide the charity through the legal implications of their options, whilst also ensuring that the CCSS complies with its governing documents, charity law and relevant legislation.

Trustees have a duty to ensure that the charity is well run, solvent, legally compliant, and working towards the charitable purpose for which it was established, and Trustee roles are an important and highly rewarding way to support an award winning organisation. Please note that Trustee roles are unremunerated voluntary positions, although reasonable travel expenses will be paid.

The CCSS is committed to equality of opportunity, supports, and encourages under-represented groups, and values diversity. We seek people from a wide range of backgrounds, who will bring a fresh perspective to the Board, and having reviewed existing Trustee's diversity, skills, and experience, the CCSS are keen for the Board to reflect the diversity of the communities that they work with and therefore welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Please contact Heidi Earp, Director of Langton Not 4 Profit our retained consultants for further information on the role.